Business link june 2016

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

108th Annual Meeting & Gala

Annual Business Awards Pages 2-5

Small Business of the Year AB Aviation / Aaron Burkhart & Lillian Todd, Owners Small Business of the Year North Georgia Canopy Tours / Leah & Kirk Watkins, Owners

Meetings & Events Page 6

Family Business of the Year Clipper Petroleum / Tom Bower III, President

Member Announcements Page 10 Ribbon Cuttings Page 12 Small Business of the Month Page 13 New Members Page 13 New Leadership Hall Class Page 14

2015-2016 Business Award Recipients

Family Business of the Year Chestnut Mountain Egg Farms / Tom Oliver, President & CEO Community Service Award Jackson EMC Operation Round Up (L-R): Chamber Chairman Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber President & CEO, Chairman-Elect Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company, at the 108th Annual Meeting & Gala on May 19.

Healthcare Reform – Community Update –

Tuesday, August 23 8am - 12pm Brenau Downtown Center Open to the Public

Distinguished Citizen Award Representative Carl Rogers W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award Tony Paramore, CEO, Gainesville Design Center

Silver Shovel Awards David Abee, Regions Bank

David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities

Jeff Butler, Morton Vardeman & Carlson Carol Shirley, South State Bank Karen Ching, Liberty Candy Company Tyler Smith, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles Jason Everett, Gainesville Flooring Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty Ahna Still, Halski Systems Brad Gooch, Lawson Air Conditioning Al Trembley, WSI Digital Rainmakers Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance Mike Holman, Baldor Electric Erin Langford, HTI Employment

Jessica Tullar & Rusty Ligon, City of Gainesville Davis White, LinkPoint Advantage

Save the Date Tuesday, June 14 Small Business Seminar Tuesday, June 21 Georgia Chamber Breakfast Tuesday, June 28 South Hall Business Coalition

JUNE 2016

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

We have it all in Hall, Y'all!

As I wrap up my term as Chamber Chairman, I would like to reflect on a few successes. Hall County is a special place to live, thanks in large part to years of deliberate effort by our community leaders to create a thriving economy while enhancing an already exceptional quality of life.

Gainesville-Hall County is THE PLACE TO DO BUSINESS IN GEORGIA. For the 3rd year in a row, Georgia has been named the #1 state in the country to do business, and Hall County has the best of what Georgia has to offer.

Brian Daniel Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

We have GOVERNMENT LEADERSHIP that understands the importance of making Gainesville-Hall County a welcoming place to do business, and this sensible and stable government is one of our most critical assets.

We have visionary business leaders and a highly qualified Chamber staff, and we understand ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT. Hall County leads the region in job creation, and businesses make long term investments because of our stability, skilled workforce and leaders. We are engaged in WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT, addressing the needs of area employers through an initiative collaborating with area employers and educators to ensure we develop a quality workforce capable of growing and sustaining our economy today and in the future.

We have COMMUNITY SUPPORT that makes things happen, such as the generosity of over 150 business investors in the HALLmark campaign. Over $2 million has been raised to support our economic and community development initiatives.

We are blessed with excellent OPPORTUNITIES FOR EDUCATION with outstanding public and private school systems, two major universities and the State’s #1 Technical College.

Through the Chamber’s VISION 2030 Leadership and HEALTHCARE INITIATIVES, we are continually working on the VISION of what we want our community to be in the future, including resources for living longer, healthier and happier.

We are a stand-out in arts and culture. New art is on display around the community as part of the VISION 2030 Free Range Art Project and a free walking tour features over 30 works of art throughout Gainesville-Hall County.

We have a healthy TOURISM INDUSTRY, with a world class recreation, parks and sporting events.

Lake Lanier Olympic Park, hosting national and international championships continues to bring the world to our shores.

June 7, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

A great place to do business, a solid economy, a great quality of life. In the words of Gainesville’s only Gangster Poet, Mr. Phil Bonilli “We have it ALL in HALL, y’all.”

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Chairman's Award to Tony Paramore

The W.G. Mealor Award is named after the first chairman/president of the Chamber, W.G. Mealor, who served from 1908-1917. The award is given by the Chairman to a Chamber volunteer who has gone beyond "the call of duty” working for the community.

Tony Paramore, CEO, Gainesville Design Center, is a Chamber Board member, serving as Vice Chair of Membership Development for three years and helping the Chamber grow to over 2,600 members. He has also been a champion for small business, and continuously encourages members to get involved and participate in events. Tony's enthusiasm and leadership have helped make the Chamber a champion for business. Tony joined the Everett family in business in 2009, and they formed a joint company, 2016 Chamber Chairman's Award Recipient Budget Carpet and Gainesville Paint, now Gainesville Tony Paramore and wife Tonia.

Design Center. This successful business is a one-stop-shop for individuals and businesses who need paint, flooring and design services. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia and served as a Lieutenant in the US Army, serving in Kuwait and Egypt. He is a Scout Master for his son’s Cub Scout troop and was awarded the Cherokee District Den Leader of the Year. Tony is a history buff and an avid photographer.

Business Link VOLUME 21 ISSUE 12 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2015-2016 Executive Committee Vice Chair, Marketing and Chairman Communications Brian Daniel Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Katie Dubnik Forum Communications Chairman Elect Vice Chair, Membership Lee Hemmer Development The Simpson Company Tony Paramore Gainesville Design Center Treasurer David Abee, Regions Bank Vice Chair, South Hall Council Andy Kalinauskas Vice Chair, Economic Conditioned Air Systems Development Brian Rochester Vice Chair, Community Rochester & Associates Development Lila Weaver, Brenau University Vice Chair, Education Deborah Mack, Volunteer Chair, VISION 2030 Davis White Vice Chair, Government LinkPoint Advantage John Breakfield Elizabeth Higgins, Exec Director Breakfield & Associates

Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers AT&T Jimbo Floyd Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Melissa Tymchuk Northeast Georgia Health System Senior Advisor Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost Immediate Past Chairman David Lee, Jackson EMC President & CEO Kit Dunlap Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2015-2016 Charlotte Atkins, The Times Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton & Company Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo Dr. Wanda Creel, Gainesville City Schools Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Sam Evans, Councilman, City of Oakwood Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services Tony Funari, Funari Realty Loren Funk, The Longstreet Clinic Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota Will Hicks, Stifel Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Park Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Lane Jones, Community Volunteer Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications

Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health System Dick Mecum, Chair, Hall County Commission Terry Merck, American Yazaki Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Greg Ours, Poly Enterprises Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville Brad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx Jeff Reinhardt, MD, The Longstreet Clinic Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Carol Shirley, South State Bank Louis Smith, Northeast Georgia Health System Jody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’s Grier Todd, Lanier Islands Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging

Associate Directors 2015-2016 Andy Bangs, Alexander, Almand & Bangs Carolina Diaz, Georgia Power Craig Dowdy, SunTrust Anna Guzman, Jackson EMC Michael Lancaster, Edward Jones Erin Langford, HTI Employment Solutions

Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms Mike McGraw, PrideStaff Steven Mickens, Boys & Girls Clubs Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman Gary Smith, Milton Martin Honda Elizabeth Thompson, House Dressing

Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Garrett Wiley, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President Finance & HR Membership Development Megan Martin, Vice President, Development Kara Tate, Vice President, Membership Sales Education Dana Miller, Vice President

Government Affairs Garrett Wiley, Project Manager South Hall Council Megan Martin, Vice President Membership 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

June 7 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

A n nua l B u s i n e s s Awa rds

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Small Business of the Year AB Aviation

Small Business of the Year North Georgia Canopy Tours

Founded in late 2003, AB Aviation began with a simple goal of providing exceptional maintenance and repair service for the general aviation community.

The company opened the operation at the Lee Gilmer Memorial Airport in Gainesville with three employees.

Today, with 11 employees, AB Aviation provides full-service Chamber Chair-Elect Lee Hemmer with Lillian Todd and aircraft maintenance, Aaron Burkhart, owners of AB Aviation. repair, and avionics installation services for all makes and models of general aviation aircraft. Aircraft management, pilot services, and buyer/seller assistance are additional services offered. In 2006, AB Aviation became distinguished as an Authorized Cessna Service Facility and shortly thereafter, a Lycoming Authorized Service Facility.

More recently, AB Aviation has been designated an FAA Repair Station and has been named an Authorized Service Facility for Beechcraft. AB Aviation partners with local school systems providing internship opportunities through the work-based learning program for young men and women who have an interest in aviation and is involved in many civic and charitable organizations. abaviation.net

Since opening in 2010, North Georgia Canopy Tours has served over 70,000 visitors, added heated and air conditioned teepees, and installed a championship quality 18-hole disc golf course. Kirk and Leah Watkins are the Managing Members, and the guides at Canopy Tours must pass a full week’s intensive training stressing safety and rescues and also provide information to be shared with guests about the ecology, geography, culture, wildlife, and history of the area. To further an educational experience, authentic engineered teepees were installed and Native American Artifacts are on display in the canopy Leah and Kirk Watkins, owners of command center. Leah and Kirk are both North Georgia Canopy Tours.

Leadership Hall County graduates and currently serve on many community boards including the committee to restore Healan’s Mill in East Hall County. Canopy Tours has two of the first three dry hydrants in Hall County on site, not only to facilitate fighting fire that might occur on the site, but which are also available to the Hall County Fire Department should there be a quick need for water to fight fires in the community. In the original construction two old chicken houses were re-purposed, and they have avoided removing any trees for its facilities. northgeorgiacanopytours.com

Family Business of the Year Chestnut Mountain Egg Farms Chestnut Mountain Egg Farms was founded by W.N. Oliver, Jr. in 1963.

A small time farmer, W.N. started his company which operated primarily in the egg business. Now some 54 years later, Chestnut Mountain Egg Farms is three generations strong. Tom Oliver, son of W.N., was born and raised in Chestnut Mountain, leaving only for college and military service.

Tom is a strong community leader as evidenced by his two terms as Chairman of the Hall County Commission. He has served on many community service boards Tom and Sally Oliver, owners of Chestnut and remains a valuable resource and Mountain Egg Farms. generous donor in both the business sector and non-profit community. Tom and his wife Sally have three children – Katy Hutcheson, Jonathan Oliver and Caroline Lawson and six grandchildren.

They reside in Chestnut Mountain where he owns and operates the family business with his son, Jonathan. Today the family operation has expanded and added Livestock Animal Specialties and Brokerage. The egg business is a world-wide industry. Tom and Jonathan maintain positions on Commodities Boards and market their product locally as well as overseas.

Family Business of the Year Clipper Petroleum Clipper Petroleum opened in Gainesville in 1933 as an Amoco Oil Distributor. During the mid-1900's, Clipper served service stations, country stores, farms and industries. In 1974, Tom Bower and Robert Braff purchased Clipper Petroleum. In 1977, Mr. Bower's son, Tom, joined the company, and they started the Circle M Food Tom and Maria Bower, Clipper Petroleum, and daughters Shop convenience stores.

Haley and Caroline Bowers Filchak.

The first store was located in Gainesville off of Green Street Circle. The original store was called Circle Amoco because of the street name, Green Street Circle. Clipper Petroleum continued to grow the Amoco brand (now BP) at its own Circle M stores and at independently operated dealer stores and became an ExxonMobil Distributor in 2000, then added Shell, Citgo, and Chevron branded fuels. In 2009, Clipper purchased 18 stores from BP in Metro Atlanta, solidifying Clipper's market share in the Atlanta market.

Today, Circle M Food Shops operate throughout Metro Atlanta, North Georgia, and South Carolina, and Clipper Petroleum is recognized as one of the largest petroleum Distributors in the Southeast. Always giving back to the community, the company founded Clipper Petroleum Foundation and in 2015 awarded over $88,000 in grants to 40 deserving organizations and schools. clipperpetroleum.com

Hall County native Carl Rogers has represented our community as a State Representative in the Georgia General Assembly for 22 years. He began his political career as a Democrat under Governor Zell Miller and is retiring as a Republican under his close friend, Governor Nathan Deal. Carl serves as Chairman for the Higher Education Committee and on the Rules, Appropriations, Insurance and Health and Human Services Committees.

He has previously served on the committees of General Government and Economic Development, Transportation, Agriculture, Carl and Linda Rogers Consumer Affairs, Natural Resources and Reapportionment. He has been continuously recognized for his service, including the Northern Judicial Circuit’s ‘Liberty Bell Award’, the ‘Champion of Georgia Cities Award’, the ‘Defender of Liberty Award’ and James Magazine’s “Most Influential Legislators of the Year”. Carl has remained an active insurance agent for 39 years and is Vice President at Insurance Offices of America as a commercial sales executive. His community involvement includes serving as Chairman of the Gainesville-Hall County Planning Commission and Scout Master of Troop 16 at First United Methodist Church. He currently represents First Methodist as a Trustee and on the United Methodists Children’s Home Board and is a member of the Gainesville Kiwanis Club.

Community Service Award Jackson EMC Operation Round Up

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June 7, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Founded in 2005, the Jackson EMC Foundation was developed as a way for the cooperative’s members to use their strength to improve the communities they live in and help those less fortunate. Nearly 182,600 of the cooperative’s members – almost 90% of Jackson EMC’s total membership – have their monthly electric bill rounded up to the next dollar amount through Operation Round Up. The program is set up so that Steve Blair, Jackson EMC Board Member, with no one member can contribute Chamber Chairman Brian Daniels. over $11.88 a year, and the average annual contribution per member is $6.00. But together they contribute more than $90,000 each month for charitable initiatives. Jackson EMC members’ spare change funds the work of the Foundation, which offers grant funds for both charitable organizations and individuals in need. Since its founding, the Jackson EMC Foundation has funded 1,079 grants to organizations and 327 grants to individuals. By the 10th anniversary of its founding, the Foundation had put more than $10 million back into the 10-county area served by Jackson EMC. And, with the generosity of Jackson EMC’s members, the Foundation will reach $11 million in grants by the end of this year’s second quarter, making a lasting impact on the quality of life in Northeast Georgia. jacksonemc.com

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A n n u a l B u s i n e s s A wa r d s

Distinguished Citizen Award Carl Rogers

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Meetings & Events June 7, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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JUNE 2016 Tuesday, June 7 Tri-Chamber Business After Hours Lake & Luau 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Legacy Pointe at Lanier Islands Wednesday, June 8 Network Over Coffee 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – The Rooster's Perch in Downtown Gainesville Friday, June 10 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, June 14 Small Business Seminar "How to Identify, Compete & Win Government Contracts" Presented by Joe Beaulieu, Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, June 21 Georgia Chamber Morning Mixer 7:30 a.m. - Networking & Registration 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Meeting & Breakfast 9:00 - 9:30 a.m. - Focus Groups Chattahoochee Country Club Tuesday, June 21 VISION 2030 Board of Directors End of the Year Celebration 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m.

Wednesday, June 22 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Loretta's Country Kitchen in Oakwood Thursday, June 23 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center

Wednesday, June 15 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, June 28 South Hall Business Coalition "Atlanta Falcons Season Preview" 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Falcons Complex in Flowery Branch

Wednesday, June 15 Lunch 'n Learn 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood

Tuesday, August 23 Healthcare Reform Seminar 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Brenau Downtown Center Theatre

Thursday, June 16 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Chamber

Register for these and more Chamber Events Online: GreaterHallChamber.com

Business After Hours on the Lake Over 100 Greater Hall Chamber members enjoyed Business After Hours at the Chattahoochee Country Club. (L-R): Gift Card Winner Andy Miller, Keller Williams; Cash Prize Winner Anna Cash,South State Bank; Gift Card Winner Dale Herndon, JT Stratford; Jennifer Satterfield and Joshua Singleton, Chattahoochee Country Club.

Small Business Seminar Tuesday, June 14 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at the Chamber No Charge for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

Learn How to Win Government Contracts Joe Beaulieu, Georgia Tech Procurement Center, is a Government Contracting Counselor helping Georgia businesses identify, compete for, and win government contracts. His assistance comes in the forms of teaching, mentoring and coaching and also provides clients with a electronic tools to research and identify government contracting opportunities. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Leads Development Program Wednesday, June 15 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. at Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood $15 Chamber Members • $25 Non-Members • Includes Lunch

Lunch 'n Learn Join other professionals and Chamber Members for networking and leads development over lunch! This Greater Hall Chamber monthly program includes lunch and a short presentation followed by an open forum of conversation and leads development. Great networking! Reservations required. Details: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 116.

Email: ktate@ghcc.com

Georgia Chamber Breakfast Tuesday, June 21 7:30 a.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club No Charge • Must Register by June 16

Interactive Breakfast Meeting Chris Clark, Georgia Chamber President and CEO, will facility this breakfast program.

Attendees participate in a live poll to help plan for the future of Georgia as well as provide additional feedback in an optional issue and region specific poll. No Charge.

Registration by June 16 is required to attend. Register at gachamber.com/events Details: Garrett Wiley, 770-532-6206 x 110. Email: gwiley@ghcc.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, June 28 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. at the Falcons Complex in Flowery Branch $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members • Limited Space

Atlanta Falcons 2016 Season Preview Join the South Hall Business Coalition and hear the latest on the Atlanta Falcons and the upcoming season, along with a construction update on the $1.4 billion Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Light breakfast. Space limited. Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and Red Clay Interactive. Details: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 116.

Email: ktate@ghcc.com

Member of the Month 4 columns 10x10"

Member Announcements

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• Children’s Center for Hope & Healing's 8th Annual NEGA Trauma Conference is Friday, June 17 at the Brenau Downtown Center from 8:30am - 5:30pm. The conference for Mental Health Professionals "Teens & Sexting" will feature Stephanie Woodard, Hall County Solicitor. No charge to attend, $60 to obtain Continuing Education Credits. To register call Dorsey Danielson, 770-532-6530 x 111 or email: adanielson@hopeandhealingga.org • NEW Gainesville-Hall County Maps and the 2016 Community Guide are available at the Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville.

Details: Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206 x 101. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com • Forum Communications welcomes Callie Flack. With a varied background in communications, philanthropic and volunteer management, her diverse experiences will help tackle challenges through innovative and collaborative problem solving. forumspeaks.com • LanierWorld is open at Lanier Islands with summer fun – waterslides, WildWaves wave pool, CAT 4 Tube Slide, Thunderbolt Triple Zipline, Lakeside Links Miniature Golf, FunDunker and more. New is a 50’ x 80’ Spectacular Screen regularly showing videos and films throughout the summer. Boat up to the docks or gather on the sand in this lakeside homage to the drive-in theaters of yesteryear. lanierislands.com

• Thank You Tri-Chamber Lake & Luau Sponsors (June 7 at Lanier Islands).

Cotton Eyed Joe's, Halski Systems, Aqua-Terra Recycling & Treatment, Berkshire Hathaway/Joe Selbee, Express Employment Professionals, PrideStaff, Atlanta Rehabilitation & Performance Center and Sun Suites.

• iTNLanier, a volunteer-based senior transportation program, opened this spring and is supported by donors and grants (60%), membership fees and ride revenues. Drivers (trained, background checked, with additional insurance coverage) meet the older adult at their door and assist them to the destination. iTNLanier was developed by VISION 2030's Wisdom Keepers and is an affiliate of iTNAmerica®, an award-winning national best practice model with 28 affiliates nationwide. intlanier.org • The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Healthcare Reform Community Update is Tuesday, August 23 from 8:00 am12:00 pm at the Brenau Downtown Center Theatre. Learn what the experts are saying about the state of healthcare and insurance industries. Speakers will provide the latest regulations and navigate through legislation to help you develop an action plan for your company. Email Amanda for details: alewis@ghcc.com • For the second year, Syfan Logistics has been named one of the Top 100 third-party logistics companies in America by Inbound Logistics magazine,

June 7, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Hackers Holiday 2016

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a national trade publication covering the transportation industry. Founded in 2011, Syfan Logistics was recognized in 2015 by Transport Topics as one of the Top 50 Transportation Brokerage Firms and Top 50 Dedicated Contract Carriers in the United States. syfanlogistics.com • Opening just a year ago, Team Ryan Automotive, a unique family-run auto repair shop in Buford, has been recognized in the May issue of Ratchet and Wrench, a national trade industry magazine. teamryanautomotive.com • Express Employment Professionals is challenging businesses to help with the fight against hunger with Brand It Blue Day on June 10. Food drop off at 322 Oak Street in Gainesville 678-780-3000.

ExpressPros.com/BrandItBlueDay • The Georgia District Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Week awards recipients included Melinda Coker, Senior Vice President, Small Business Access Partners, a non-profit authorized by the SBA to lend capital to small businesses. Coker focuses on marketing the SBA 504 loan program to potential borrowers, lenders, and other referral sources. sbaploans.com • Elachee Nature Science Center's Director of Schools Rhonda Bailey announces a new Kindergarten-1st Grade program starting in August. Elachee Nature Academy will offer two, nine-month programs this fall – Nature Preschool and K-1st Grade thanks to demand

from Elachee’s accredited Nature-based Preschool, now in its third year and with a two-year waiting list for the unique, private, tuition-based preschool program managed and operated by Elachee Nature Science Center. elachee.org • The Affordable Housing Tax Credit Coalition named Myrtle Terraces a Tax Credit Excellence Award winner in the Senior Housing category for this year’s Charles L. Edson Tax Credit Excellence Awards competition. Myrtle Terraces provides senior adults a luxurious living at an affordable cost with on-site amenities – dining area, private dining room, game room, TV lounge, library and computer center, exercise room, beauty parlor, dayrooms as well as the 8.40 acre pocket park. myrtleterraces.com • National Weather Service presented Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton with a certificate for being Storm Ready, the first hospital in Georgia to achieve this recognition. nghs.com • Signs By Tomorrow of Gainesville was recognized for surpassing $1 million in sales in 2015. Since opening in 2001

by The Kelly Family, Jay, Michael, Janet and Kari, the company continues to grow. signsbytomorrow.com/gainesvillega

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Chamber Job Opening Membership Events Coordinator Opening for a position at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce.

Experience is a must. Planning, coordinating and selling major events.

Communication, organization, technology skills. College Degree. Working with a team and volunteers. Send resume: Human Resources, Greater Hall Chamber, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville, GA 30503. Email: resumes@ghcc.com

New Community Guide Hackers Holiday Golf 1st Place Team (above) Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Team (L-R): Greg Barrett, Jay Cooper, Jay Kilroy and Kevin Hobgood. The 36th Annual Tournament was at full capacity with 140 players at Lanier Islands.

Award recipients included 2nd Place Team: Carroll Daniel Construction/ John Haynes, Scott Obershlake, Trent Brown, Joe Kennedy. 3rd Place Team: Sullivan & Schlieman/Josh Schlieman, Dr. Ben Puckett, Josh Hall, Trey Wood. Closest to the Pin: Brian Patullo, playing on the City of Flowery Branch team. Women’s Longest Drive: Robyn Lynch, Southern Magnolia Capital. Men’s Longest Drive: Trey Wood, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance (playing on the Sullivan & Schlieman Team). The $1,000 Cash Prize Winner was Ricky Armor with the Home Depot Team! Thank you Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia, title sponsor, and AT&T, 19th Hole Reception Sponsor.

The Greater Hall Chamber's newly published Gainesville-Hall County Community Guide is fresh off the press with information on the community – economic development, tourism, housing, education, culture, government and quality of life. Copies are available at the Chamber office, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville. The flipbook version of the 2016 Community Guide is available online: 365publicationsonline.com/Greater_Hall_ NCG2016/ Details: Robin Halstead, 770-5326206 x 100. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

Business Before Hours

South Hall Business Coalition

Call or visit your Edward Jones financial advisor to start your future with a solid strategy.

1/2 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x10"

Beth Baldwin

Financial Advisor

439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220

Small Business Seminar (L-R): Lane Jones; Kem Henderson, Delta Community Credit Union (Presenter); Charles White, SCORE; Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance, at the Small Business Seminar. Joe Beaulieu, a Government Contracting Counselor with the Georgia Tech Procurement Center, will present the upcoming Seminar – How to Identify, Compete for, and Win Government Contracts on Tuesday, June 14, 7:45-9:00 am at the Chamber. No charge for Chamber members; $15 Nonmembers. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Rick Kimpling, AAMS® Financial Advisor

64 North Brooks Street Unit B Cleveland, GA 30528 706-865-0933

Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® Financial Advisor

3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 Gainesville, GA 30506 770-536-2031

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

June 7, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

(L-R): Tony Funari, Funari Realty; Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO; Anthony Williamson, President, Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, at the South Hall Council meeting where Anthony presented the milestones of NGMC Braselton's first year. Join the South Hall Business Coalition at the Atlanta Falcons Headquarters in Flowery Branch on Tuesday, June 28 from 8:00-9:00 am and hear the latest on the Atlanta Falcons and the upcoming season, along with a construction update on the $1.4 billion Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Space limited. Sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and Red Clay Interactive. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members.

Details: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 116. Email: ktate@ghcc.com

Congratulations Graduates

Membership Development

Chamber members gathered at Habitat for Humanity of Hall County’s NEW ReStore for Business Before Hours.

(L-R): Tim Williams, Associate Executive Director & Building Director, and Ann Nixon, Executive Director, Habitat for Humanity of Hall County with door prize winner, Darryl Workman, BrandBank, and Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO. Habitat Hall recently completed their 53rd home build. Learn how you can get involved by building, volunteering, shopping or donating. HabitatHallCounty.org

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Ribbon Cuttings

Wilson Orthodontics Breaks Ground Collins Property Group

Ron Wilson, DMD breaks ground for the 11,000-square-foot Wilson Orthodontics Gainesville location, near the intersection of Jesse Jewell and Limestone parkways, across from the Kroger-anchored New Holland Market. 770-741-2389. wilsonbraces.com

Jared Earls, Operations Manager, and Kathline Collins, Broker, cut ribbon at Collins Property Group, a boutique real estate company that specializes in the listing, marketing and sale of homes. Collins Property Group takes pride in the way they treat their customers and clients. Every person they work with has a personal relationship with the company, and they answer any and all questions along the way with expert knowledge. 871 Dawsonville Highway, Suite 930, Gainesville 30501. 770-857-3515. collinspropertygroup.com

Bizzy Bee Exterminators

Smith-Bell Petroleum

Tammy Nolan, Office Manager, and John Wheeler, General Manager, cut ribbon at Bizzy Bee Exterminators, a family-owned business with over 40 years of professional pest control experience. Bizzy Bee offers complete extermination services including pest and termite control. It is their goal to continue to provide customers with the safest, most effective, and highest quality pest control services available. 5450 Technology Parkway, Braselton 30517. 770-921-6589. bizzybeeexterminators.com

June 7 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

iTN Lanier Senior Transportation

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Program Co-chairs Gary Lawrence and Erica Walker cut ribbon for iTN Lanier, part of an Independent Transportation NetworkÂŽ that offers transportation for seniors and the visually impaired. iTN Lanier offers an arm-through-arm, door-to-door service that is available 24/7, giving customers the flexibility to schedule their rides in advance or as needed. 999 Chestnut Street in Gainesville. 678-696-0360. ITNLanier.org

PSK Document Solutions

Shannon Kent, President & CEO, and family, cut ribbon for PSK Document Solutions, a copier sales and service center and authorized Konica Minolta dealer. Konica Minolta offers multi-function solutions including the Bizhub product line. With a wide variety of document solutions, PSK can guide your company to higher profits and a better line of communication between your staff, clients and vendors. 4616 Elk Ridge Court, Suite 103, Flowery Branch, 30542. 678-865-6727. pskdocumentsolutions.com

Johnny Nivens, President of Smith-Bell Petroleum, his family, staff and community officials cut ribbon to celebrate the offering of AutoGas (Propane) for vehicles at their Pacific Pride location, 2312 Monroe Drive in Gainesville. Established 70 years ago as a local Shell Oil distributorship, the company now transacts business in most of Georgia, as well as Tennessee and South Carolina. 770-532-8661. smithbell.net

Sweet Acre Farms Winery Husband and wife team and owners Matthew and Lindsey Vrahiotes cut ribbon for Sweet Acre Farms Winery. After growing blackberries and keeping bees for some time, they have turned their u-pick farm into Hall County's first winery, specializing in fruit/country wines. They honor our state's agricultural diversity by using the finest ingredients from local farms.

7584 Bill Wilson Road, Alto 30510.

678-769-5335. sweetacrefarms.com

Habitat for Humanity ReStore

Executive Director Ann Nixon cuts ribbon at The ReStore that sells new and used furnishings, furniture, appliances, windows, doors and other building materials to the public at a fraction of the original cost. Funds generated are used toward the Habitat Hall County mission of building affordable houses in our community. 975 Chestnut Street in Gainesville. 770-718-1070. habitathallcounty.org

Welcome New Members -Office Supplies/Equipment Gainesville, GA 30501 (855) 998-6637 -Restaurant & Catering cartridgeworldusa.com facebook.com/riggysgrill

Maggie Griffin 810 Cherokee Road Gainesville, GA 30501 -Individual Member American Family Insurance (478) 893-2781 The Aitkin Agency Richie Aitkin Hardemans Towing & 4009 Winder Hwy, Suite 260 Recovery Flowery Branch, GA 30542 Pat Hardeman -Insurance 4096 Chamblee Road (470) 252-3459 Oakwood, GA 30566 -Towing Berkshire Hathaway (706) 654-8428 HomeServices Terri Champion Miracle Ear 3554 Mill Road Matt Munford Gainesville, GA 30504 956A Dawsonville Highway Real Estate Suite 302 (770) 530-8403 Gainesville, GA 30501 terrichampion.bhhsgeorgia.com -Hearing Aids (770) 536-5552 Boost! Business Consulting David Hays The Norton Agency 3446 Winder Highway Sue Gross Suite M-328 434 Green Street, NW Flowery Branch, GA 30542 Gainesville, GA 30501 -Business/Consult Services -Real Estate (404) 626-0703 (770) 540-4733 boost-biz.com gonorton.com Cartridge World Mitch Harkins 333 Shallowford Road, NW Gainesville, GA 30501

Riggy's Grill Robert Alberhasky 2415 Browns Bridge Road

Riverwood Associates, LLC Peter Sherman 4756 Promontory Ct Dunwoody, GA 30338 Business Services, Training (678) 595-7942 riverwoodassociates.com SCORE - Northeast Georgia Chapter #717 Charles White P.O. Box 7142 Gainesville, GA 30504 -Non-Profit (770) 538-2522 Servpro of Gainesville Mark Collins 1677A Oakbrook Drive Gainesville, GA 30507 -Disaster Recovery (770) 536-1010 servproofgainesville.com WayPoint Ministry Chris Gillhouse 129 Center Point Drive Dahlonega, GA 30533 -Non-Profit (706) 864-7110 waypointcenter.org

CBT, Inc. was founded 26 years ago to provide first-class logistics services with a high regard for fair and ethical business practices and a commitment to customers, carriers and employees.

CBT is a provider for the food service giants as well as CBI, Inc. Owner Connie Banks and staff, recipient of the the top poultry Chamber Small Business of the Month. and egg producers in the region and offers resources to manage temperature-controlled and dry van truckload needs. Quality services comes from years of understanding various industry shipping and receiving requirements, time sensitive shelf dates, weight limitations and proper handling techniques. CBT has become one of Northeast Georgia’s strongest logistics providers, ranking in the top 15% in the industry nationally. Headquartered in Oakwood, CBT is an active member of the Greater Hall Chamber and many other civic and charitable organizations. 4281 McBrayer Road, Oakwood, GA 30566. cbtoakwood.com

Membership Development

4 Aces Real Estate Tara Brooks 311 W Academy Street Gainesville, GA 30501 -Real Estate (678) 316-9307 4acesrealestate.com

Small Business of the Month CBT, Inc.

Thank You Chamber Sponsors!

We appreciate these organizations that sponsored June Events:

Lanier Technical College Milton Martin Honda Milton Martin Toyota PrideStaff Red Clay Interactive Signs by Tomorrow Sun Suites of Gainesville WSI Digital Rainmakers

ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS 984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA

770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com

Biz Card Ad Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967

2 columns 4.4167 x2.0"

1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"

June 7, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Cotton Eyed Joe's AccessWDUN Express Employment Pros Aqua-Terra Recycling & Treatment Georgia Chamber Atlanta Falcons Georgia Power Atlanta Rehabilitation & Halski Systems Performance Center Highland Mountain Water Berkshire Hathaway Home Jacobs Media Services/Joe Selbee Lanier Islands Brenau University

13 Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter

Key Economic Indicators

June 7, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

14

The Greater Hall Chamber 2016-2017 Leadership Hall County Class:

Governor Signs Budget in Hall County

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Gainesville City

4.8

8

Cherokee Dawson

4.3 4.8

6

Forsyth

4.2

Gwinnett Jackson Ga Mountains State of Georgia

4.8 4.5 4.7 5.5

The Norton Agency Key Economic Retail Sales Indicators 2 columns $ 257,466,071 4.4167 x 10

5

10

Latest

Apr 2016

4.5 Previous Month

4

Mar 2016

4.6

2

One Year Ago

Apr 2015

A

4.8

M

J

J

A S O

N

2015

D

J

F M

2016

U.S.

A

Updated 6/1

3.0

Hall County

Latest Apr. 2016

2.0

Previous Month (available)

One Year Ago

Mar. 2016

Apr 2015

100’s millions of dollars

Lindsay Addison, Challenged Child & Friends Juliet Aldridge, Hall County District Attorney's Office Rachel Bahin, The Longstreet Clinic Walt Booth, BB&T Insurance Neal Broadwell, Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Renee Carden, Lake Lanier CVB Natalie Challen, Willis Investment Counsel Kristi Crumpton, Mt. Vernon Exploratory School Dr. Donna Danns, UNG Mike Cottrell College of Business Brook Davidson, Stewart, Melvin & Frost Caroline Bowers Filchak, Clipper Petroleum Maggie Griffin, Maggie Griffin Design Joe Groover, Hall County Sheriff's Office Scotty Hall, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance Monica Hatfield, Hulsey Oliver & Majar Dale Herndon, JT Stratford Angie Highsmith, Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Amy Holcomb, Hall County State Court Gail Iverson, Rushton & Company Kyle Ivey, "Just" People, INC Lynn Jones, Gainesville City School System Sandy King, Northeast Georgia Health System Shane Lazenby, Lazenby Law Group Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms Amanda Lewis, Greater Hall Chamber Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial Mike McGraw, PrideStaff Jeremy Panter, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker Ricky Rich, Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice John Robertson, Jr., City of Gainesville Police Department Jessica Robinson, Hall County Government Sandra Simon-Grindy, Lanier Islands Jeff Stephens, Northeast Georgia Health System Wanda Vance, Hall County District Attorney's Office Michael Weaver, Hall County Solicitor's Office Brian E. Whalen, Stribling Whalen Financial Group Janet Whittaker, Gateway Domestic Violence Center Allison Zafft, Georgia Power Company

Percent

Education & Leadership

Leadership Hall 2016-2017

1.0

232,479,590

222,509,494

$

$

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

M

J

J

A

S O

N

D

J F M

2015

A

2016 Updated 6/1

Housing Permits Issued - Hall County

Latest

Apr. 2016 87 Previous Month

One Year Ago

2016 Total

Mar. 2016

Apr. 2015

265

63

72

689

2015 YTD

Area Permits County Barrow Dawson Gwinnett Forsyth Hall Jackson

Apr. 2016 22 11 245 225 87 **

Apr. 2015 34 15 198 229 72 14

Mar. 2016 26 16 241 289 63 21

Total 2015 308 119 1,901 2,140 689 192

2016 YTD 70 52 851 862 265 63

Avg Total Price 2016

Avg Price

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Apr. 2016

Avg Price

Apr. 2015

Avg Price

Mar. 2016

Avg Price

Total 2015

City

35

221,606

30

188,983

13

200,879

286

457,574

107

215,609

North

54

276,449

39

262,793

52

225,300

497

260,609

108

261,241

East

16

173,981

15

118,728

24

136,563

211

122,567

60

147,069

South

30

233,699

50

203,082

20

239,249

423

169,500

77

218,066

West

80

258,912

31

214,187

77

246,213

789

230,258

244

248,404

Area

Updated 6/1

Governor Nathan Deal signed the $23.7 billion state budget for the 2017 fiscal year at the site of Lanier Technical College's new campus in Hall County, scheduled to open in fall 2018. The big-ticket local item in the budget is $48.3 million in bonds earmarked for construction of the new campus off GA Hwy 365 north. laniertech.edu

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

Details: Garrett Wiley, 770-532-6206 x 110 or gwiley@ghcc.com

Healthcare Committee Greater Hall Chamber Healthcare Committee program presenters at the May meeting (L-R): Mimi Collins, CEO, The Longstreet Clinic, and Steve McNeilly, Director of Health Partners, Northeast Georgia Health System, with Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber, and Dr. David Miller, Brenau University. Mimi and Steve presented an overview of HP2 and the development of a community wide Clinically Integrated Network through Health Partners. For information on the Chamber's Healthcare Committee and this group's work and mission, contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

8 am - 12 pm at the Brenau Downtown Center Theatre Mark your calendar for the Chamber's Annual Healthcare Reform Seminar. Learn what the experts are saying about the state of healthcare and insurance industries.

Speakers will provide the latest regulations and navigate through legislation to help you develop an action plan for your company. Hear from a Panel of Experts on the following important topics: • Preparing for 2016 and Beyond • Employee Benefits & Plan Design • Benefits Administration – State of Industry • ACA Compliance Issues • Exploring Cost Containment $15 Chamber Members; $20 Non-Members. Open to the Public. Sponsored by Northeast Georgia Health System, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance, Brenau University and Rushton & Company. Reservations are required. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Rushton Partners Nick Bruner, Barclay Rushton, Clay Pilgrim, Chris Hollifield and Perry Barnett

Rushton is well known as one of the Northeast Georgia region’s largest accounting firms. However, the firm is so much more than accounting — especially with the introduction of Rushton Wealth Management.

1/2 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x10"

From estate planning to business planning, Rushton offers a wide breadth of services to meet virtually every financial challenge in life and at work.

Rushton’s Financial Service Areas • Accounting and business planning • Management advisory services • Business evaluations • Payroll services • Personal financial planning

• Auditing • Tax planning • Tax return preparation • Retirement planning • Elder care • Wealth management services

With 35+ professionals at your service, Rushton is your one-source provider for the full array of financial and accounting services.

Rushton

ACCOUNTING & BUSINESS ADVISORS | CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com

Securities offered through 1st Global Capital Corp.Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services offered through 1st Global Advisors, Inc. Insurance services offered through 1st Global Insurance Services, Inc.

0383 RUSH_Breadth_of_Services-Biz Link.indd 1

5/19/16 12:58 PM

June 72016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Annual Healthcare Reform Update Tuesday, August 23

A Wealth of Services — All Under One Roof

Economic Development

The Greater Hall Chamber and the Georgia Chamber present an interactive Breakfast Meeting facilitated by Chris Clark, Georgia Chamber President and CEO, on Tuesday, June 21 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. Networking and registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Over breakfast, attendees participate in a live poll created to ensure everyone is included in the conversation to help us plan for the future of Georgia. Following breakfast, attendees are encouraged to provide additional feedback in an optional issue and region specific poll. This event is free.

Registration by June 16 is required to attend. Register at gachamber.com/events

15

Back Page Ad 10 x 7.5

Find your loan.

Building your dream loan.

Pictured above, Tom and Elizabeth Higgins with Andy Stewart

www.peachstatebank.com

Gainesville • 770-536-1100

Upcoming Chamber Events Tuesday, June 7 Tri-Chamber Business After Hours presented by the Forsyth, Greater Hall & Gwinnett Chambers 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.

Legacy Pointe at Lanier Islands Tuesday, June 14 Small Business Seminar "How to Procure Government Contracts" by Joe Beaulieu, GT Procurement Assistance Center 7:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, June 15 Lunch 'n Learn 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood Tuesday, June 21 Georgia Chamber Morning Mixer 7:30 a.m. - Registration 8:00 - 9:00 a.m. - Breakfast Meeting 9:00 - 9:30 a.m. - Focus Groups Chattahoochee Country Club (Must Register by June 16)

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

Tuesday, June 28 South Hall Business Coalition "Atlanta Falcons Season Preview" 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Atlanta Falcons Headquarters in 4400 Falcon Parkway in Flowery Branch (Limited Space)

Details & Register Online greaterhallchamber.com

CAR-RT SORT

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