Businesslinkaug2016

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 Economic Development Page 4

5th Annual Healthcare Reform Community Update

– Tuesday, August 23 –

8:00 am - 12:00 pm – Brenau Downtown Center

Meetings & Events Page 6 Member Announcements Page 10 Membership Benefits Page 12 New Members Page 12 Marketing Opportunities Page 13 Ribbon Cuttings Page 14

James Slotnick

Jamie Hawkins

Anne Tyler Hall, JD

Assistant VP, Advanced Markets/Broker Education Sun Life Financial

President & CEO Benefit Technology Resources

Attorney and Principal Hall Benefits Law

Brett Fowler

Dr. David Miller

Vice President Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance

Professor, Brenau University MBA Healthcare Management

ACA: Preparing for 2016 and Beyond blic! en to the Pu p O Employee Benefits and Plan Design Benefits Administration and Human Resource Technology ACA Compliance Issues • Exploring Cost Containment

ludes These Seminar Inc opics: Important T

The Greater Hall Chamber's Healthcare Reform Seminar is open to the public. Cost is $15 Chamber Members; $20 Non-Members. Includes Light Breakfast. Space is limited, and reservations are required. For Reservations, call Amanda Lewis at the Chamber, 770-532-6206 x 111 or Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Save the Date Tuesday, August 9 Small Business Seminar Tuesday, August 16 South Hall Business Coalition Thursday, August 18 Business After Hours

AUGUST 2016

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Celebrating the 1996 Olympics Twenty years ago the 1996 Olympic Games came to the shores of Lake Lanier with Rowing, Canoe and Kayak events. Through the work of hundreds of volunteers and community leaders and a significant push by the Greater Hall Chamber, Gainesville-Hall County placed itself on the map and welcomed the world. The family of a member of the Australian 4-man coxless rowing team stayed with my family (John and Jane Hemmer) during the Olympics.

He won the gold medal in that event, and I have memories of wearing his gold metal around my neck! Lake Lanier Olympic Park recently completed $1.1 million in renovations. The venue is being used today for many events including local, international, collegiate and national competitions and is the only facility built for the ‘96 Olympics that is still used for its original purpose.

The U.S. Canoe/Kayak National Team Trials were held at the park this Lee Hemmer The Simpson Company spring along with the Pan American Championships. Rio on the Water: A Chairman, Greater Hall Celebration of the Olympic Spirit is August 5 and will commemorate the Chamber of Commerce ’96 Olympics with Governor Nathan Deal and recognition of '96 volunteers including Mary Hart Wilheit, Steve Gilliam and Jim Mathis, Jr. As remembered by Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, of the Greater Hall Chamber, these interesting tidbits of information reflect the excitement of hosting the 1996 Olympic Games on the shores of Lake Lanier.

• Special commemorative pins were produced for promotion and trading. Two pins were made, the "KayakHen" and Rowing Chickens.

• NBC commentator Charlie Jones christened Gainesville the “Hospitality Capital of the World” as the community warmly welcomed the athletes and spectators to Lake Lanier.

August 2, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap with memorabilia from the 1996 Olympic Games. Kit attended Rowing/Canoe/Kayak events held on Lake Lanier as well as swimming, diving events and the Closing Ceremony for ’96 Olympics in Atlanta.

The Greater Hall Chamber played a vital role in drawing the Olympics to Lake Lanier.

• LeTrell Simpson, Chamber Board Chair 1996-1997, assisted in starting the Hallmark Initiative which raised $500,000 toward Gainesville-Hall County Olympic efforts. LeTrell was Chair of Olympic Beautification projects, clean-up, wildflower planting and more and helped establish the Welcome Center on Highway 365 for the Games.

• Whitehead Die Casting (RK Whitehead, past Chamber Chairman), a Hall County manufacturer of aluminum and zinc castings, made the rings for Olympic Torches.

• Garrett Wiley, Greater Hall Chamber, Economic Development Project Manager, lost his first tooth at the Olympic Venue while attending the Canoe/Kayak Events. Garrett was 5 years old!

• Tate O’Rouke, University of North Georgia and current Chamber Marketing Vice Chair, won the contest to name mascot for ’96 Olympics – IZZY.

Garrett Wiley was 5 years old and lost his first tooth at the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue.

VOLUME 22 ISSUE 2 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

2016-2017 Executive Committee Chairman Lee Hemmer The Simpson Company

Vice Chair, Marketing Tate O'Rouke University of North Georgia

Chairman Elect Perry Barnett, CPA Rushton

Vice Chair, Membership Development Katie Dubnik Forum Communications

Treasurer Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Vice Chair, Economic Development Brian Rochester Rochester & Associates Vice Chair, Education Deborah Mack, Volunteer Vice Chair, Government John Breakfield Breakfield & Associates

Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers AT&T Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost David Lee Jackson EMC

Senior Advisor Vice Chair, South Hall Council Dixie Truelove Andy Kalinauskas Truelove Dairy Conditioned Air Systems Immediate Past Chairman Vice Chair, Community Brian Daniel Development Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Lila Weaver Westmoreland President & CEO Brenau University Kit Dunlap Chair, VISION 2030 Greater Hall Chamber of Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Commerce Georgia Health System Elizabeth Higgins, Exec Director

Board of Directors 2016-2017

• Gainesville native artist Kourtney Braff Harper created a unique painting of “Rowing Chickens" presented to as gifts to dignitaries.

• Rick Boyd, Chattahoochee Marketing Group, designed and produced promotional items including "Georgia on My Mind" and "No Grits, No Glory" canvas bags, T-shirts, and mugs.

These products were sold via vending machines that Rick still has today.

Business Link

• Because there were no U.S. athletes competing in the Sprint Canoe/Kayak events, Chamber representatives were cheering for Germany, since Gainesville-Hall County is home to several German companies. They chanted "Deutschland! Deutschland!” while waving German and U.S. flags!

Jay Cooper, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia 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 Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Tony Funari, Funari Realty Col. Bill Gallagher, Riverside Military Academy Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County Kenitra Halyard, Georgia Power Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Park Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Lane Jones, Community Volunteer Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Lock 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 Dr. Richard Oates, University of North Georgia Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx Jeff Reinhardt, MD, The Longstreet Clinic Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman 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 Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons Grier Todd, Lanier Islands Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Arrik Williams, Tatsumi Intermodal USA

Associate Directors 2016-2017 Irineu Bragante, Mugele Tara Carney, AEON Clinical Laboratories Kate Cook, Cook Law Group Brad Gooch, Lawson Air & Plumbing Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance Andrew Joyner, The Simpson Company Shane Lazenby, Lazenby Law Group

Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial Corp Kingsley Peeples, Bates Carter Steven Pettit, Peach State Bank & Trust Stacey Poole, McDonald's, NEGA Alan Schuetze, Carroll Daniel Construction Ahna Still, Halski Systems Darryl Workman, BrandBank

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 Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Membership/ Events Kara Tate, Vice President, Membership Sales

Education Dana Miller, Vice President Government Affairs Garrett Wiley, Project Manager South Hall Council Garrett Wiley, Project Manager 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

August 2, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

E c o no m ic D e ve lo pme n t

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New Jobs in Flowery Branch

5th Annual Healthcare Reform Community Update

Tuesday, August 23 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Brenau Downtown Center Theatre Employers face a highly complex healthcare benefit environment that continues to evolve. As a result, companies continue to refine their strategies and approaches to achieve optimal value from their health benefit programs and help employees improve health status and overall well-being. Learn what the experts are saying about the future of healthcare, to help you develop an action plan. The 5th Annual Healthcare Reform Community Update is open to the public. Reservations required. Space limited.

(L-R, cutting ribbon): David, Mark and Matt Lowers of Lowers Risk Group, an enterprise risk management company, is expanding its Wholesale Screening Solutions business to Flowery Branch. A leading provider of public records research and verifications to employment screening, tenant screening and risk mitigation providers nationwide, Lowers Risk Group will occupy a 19,660 square foot office building at 5977 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch. The company was attracted to Hall County by the growing talent pool of office workers and the potential for partnerships with the criminal justice programs at Lanier Technical College, University of North Georgia and other area colleges and universities.

Wholesale Screening has twice ranked in the Inc. 5000 for being among the fastest growing privately-held businesses in America. Matthew Lowers, President of Wholesale Screening Solutions, said the company plans to hire 50 new employees

by October 2016 and an additional 100 employees by the end of 2017.

The Georgia Department of Labor’s Gainesville Career Center is supporting the company with job postings and held a career fair in July. The company will use Lanier Technical College and the Quick Start Training program to support some of the initial job training needs during the start-up period. Job opportunities can be viewed on the Georgia DOL website, employgeorgia.com (posting ID is #501551881) or at the Georgia Department of Labor’s Gainesville Career Center at 2756 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville GA 30504. 770-535-5484.

– Opening Comments – Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton To the Election: Preparing Employers for 2016 and Beyond James Slotnick, Assistant VP, Sun Life Financial The ACA & Cost Containment Strategies for Employers Brett Fowler, VP and Partner, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Human Resource Technology Jamie Hawkins, President & CEO, Benefit Technology Resources ACA Compliance Issues Anne Tyler Hall, JD, LLM, Attorney & Principal, Hall Benefits Law – Wrap Up – Rob Fowler, Executive VP & Partner, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance

Space Limited • Reservations Required • Open to the Public $15 Chamber Members; $20 Non-Members. Reservations required.

Reservations: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Valuable Business Resource: Newly Released 2016 Wage Report The Greater Hall Chamber's 2016 Wage & Benefit Report is now available. A resource prepared by the Chamber’s Economic Development Division, the publication is used by companies as a tool to ensure employers remain competitive in local compensation and benefits practices. The 2016 Wage & Benefit Survey was submitted to 108 organizations. Seventytwo (72) employers responded to this study, generating a 67% response rate. The report includes valuable information, including 50 pages of wages in the areas of Office, Finance, Human Resources, Technology, Lab, Material, Fleet, Engineer, Maintenance and Production, along with sections on pay practices and benefits information. The 2016 Wage & Benefit Report is available for purchase at the Greater Hall Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville. $30 for Chamber members; $50, NonMembers (+shipping & handling). Also available is

a complimentary Wage & Benefit Quick Reference 2016 (view online at greaterhallchamber.com) that shows the averages on key wage and pay practice information. For more information, contact Shelley Davis, Chamber Vice President Existing Industry, 770532-6206 x 108. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com In addition to the newly published 2016 Wage & Benefit Report, the Greater Hall Chamber offers many other reports, guides and resources. The Chamber has available a newly published Gainesville-Hall County Community Guide. The magazine features information on economic development, tourism, housing, education, culture, government and quality of life. Copies of the community guide are available at the Chamber. Also available is an electronic, flipbook version of the guide online. View the Community Guide online at GreaterHallChamber.com

Chamber’s recently updated 2016 Industry Directory is now available and features valuable content from 300 manufacturers, processors, logistic businesses and distributors in Gainesville-Hall County. A resource prepared by the Economic Development Division, the directory is available at the Chamber. $15 for Chamber members; $30, Non-Members. Available in bound-book format or PDF. To order, call Shelley Davis, 770-532-6206 x 108, or email: sdavis@ghcc.com The new Gainesville-Hall County Map, the continuously updated Membership Directory, a brochure of Retirement & Assisted Living Facilities in the Area (Chamber's single most requested information) and other publications are available at the Greater Hall Chamber, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville.

Details: Robin Halstead, 770-532-6206 x 100. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com or online: GreaterHallChamber.com

Hall County Forward Survey

New South Hall Roundabout

– Business Facts –

• The 2015 Milken Institute Report rated the Gainesville-Hall County MSA the #1 Small Metro area in Georgia for Job Growth. Site Selection Magazine recently named Georgia the #1 State for Business for the 3rd year in a row.

• Hall County’s Food & Agribusiness sector has the highest county economic impact in Georgia, with over $5 billion in economic output and 17,642 jobs.

• The Lanier Technical College Business Incubator, a public-private partnership housed at Featherbone Communiversity, has launched 29 businesses with 19 patents, 11 copyrights and 21 trademarks. 13 start-ups are in development. The Business Incubator provides entrepreneurs affordable space, access to professional services and educational and technical assistance.

• In 2015, Hall County employment was represented by 4,618 business establishments, according to the Georgia Department of Labor.

Flowery Branch City Council Members were on hand to cut a ribbon at the new $2 million Lights Ferry Road Extension project in June. (L-R): Joe Anglin, Mary Jones, Monica Beatty, Fred Richards, Chris Mundy, City of Flowery Branch Mayor Mike Miller. The roundabout will connect Atlanta Highway/ GA 13 and McEver Road and feed into Phil Niekro Boulevard, giving motorists a straight shot to Interstate 985. flowerbranchga.org

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August 2, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

1/2 Page Ad

Economic Development

The Hall County Government is seeking input from citizens via a survey to update the Hall County Comprehensive Plan. This long range planning document, called Hall County Forward, will guide local goals and decisions related to land use, housing, economic development, neighborhood revitalization, and natural and historic resources. The 15-question survey will assist County planners with identifying the topics that most need to be addressed during the update to this important policy document. Please take a moment to take the Hall County Forward Survey online at hallcounty.org

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Meetings & Events August 2, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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AUGUST 2016 Wednesday, August 3 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, August 17 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, August 9 Small Business Seminar "How to Motivate Employees" by Christopher Hanks, Kennesaw State 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, August 17 Lunch 'n Learn 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Milton Martin Toyota

Tuesday, August 9 Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Restaurant Wednesday, August 10 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Holiday Inn Centre in Gainesville Wednesday, August 10 Human Resources Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Luna's Friday, August 12 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity

Thursday, August 18 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Chamber Thursday, August 18 Business After Hours Sponsored by South State Bank 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

450 E.E. Butler Pkwy in Gainesville Tuesday, August 23 Healthcare Reform Seminar 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Brenau Downtown Center Theatre Wednesday, August 24 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Chick-fil-A at Robson Crossing in Oakwood

Tuesday, August 16 South Hall Business Coalition Thursday, August 25 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Cherokee Bluffs Chamber Board of Directors Meeting Park in Flowery Branch 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Tuesday, August 16 2016-17 Chamber Board Orientation Friday, August 26 8:30 a.m. – Chamber New Member Orientation 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Tuesday, August 16 VISION 2030 Board of Directors For details on these and more Chamber 11:30 a.m. – Chamber events, visit: GreaterHallChamber.com

HealthSmart Expo is October 5

The 10th Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo presented by CIGNA with free health screenings is Wednesday, October 5 from 7:30 am - 1:30 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. The VISION 2030 community wellness initiative is open to the public. Exhibit space and sponsor opportunities now available! Details: Amanda Lewis, Project Manager, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Small Business Seminar Tuesday, August 9 7:45 am - 9:00 am at the Chamber No Charge for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

How to Motivate Employees Christopher Hanks, Founder & Executive Director, KSU Entrepreneurship Center, Coles College of Business, Kennesaw State University, will lead this seminar on employee motivation. How do you get your employees to care more than you do? In this session, you will learn how to get the most out of your employees and learn how to be the leader that most people WANT to follow versus the kind of leader that they HAVE to follow. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, August 16 7:45 am - 9:00 am at Cherokee Bluffs Park in Flowery Branch $5 Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

Highlands to Islands Trail Mike Little, Director, Hall County Parks & Leisure, will discuss Cherokee Bluffs, a 168-acre park. VISION 2030 Highlands to Islands Trail committee members will give an overview of the project, funding, and discuss the newly opened Chicopee Section of the trail that will eventually connect Midtown Gainesville to Oakwood. Cost is $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Details: Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115.

Email: mlathem@ghcc.com. Online: GreaterHallChamber.com

Leads Development Program Wednesday, August 17 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm 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. Includes Lunch! Details: Kara Tate, Chamber Vice President of Membership Sales, 770-532-6206 x 116. Email: ktate@ghcc.com

Business After Hours Thursday, August 18 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm South State Bank • 450 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville Join us at South State Bank for complimentary food, beverage and great networking! South State Bank has been serving the financial needs of individuals and businesses in the South since 1934 and is proud to be one of the fastest growing banks in the Southeast. Several Prize Drawings and the Cash Prize Drawing!

STASH (bank mascot) will be greeting guests and available for photo opportunities along with a Party Truck with ice cream! $5 Chamber Member; $15 Non-Members.

Details: Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com

Member of the Month 4 columns 10x10"

August 2, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Member Announcements

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• Rio on the Water, a celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the 1996 Olympics, is Friday, August 5 at Lake Lanier Olympic Park with special guests, Governor Nathan Deal and Sandra Deal, and honorary event chairs Steve Gilliam, Jim Mathis, Jr. and Mary Hart Wilheit, all who played a strong role in bringing the '96 Olympics to the shores of Lake Lanier. Festivities include Brazilian food by Chef Kern, wine and craft beer from Tap It, and a concert featuring the dynamic Atlanta Showstoppers. Details and tickets: LakeLanierOlympicPark.com • Riverside Military Academy welcomes Philadelphia-native and retired U.S. Army Col. William J. "Bill" Gallagher as its 9th president. Col. Gallagher joins Riverside with vast experience in business, education and the military. He most recently served as the dean of the College and Commandant of Cadets at Valley Forge Military Academy and College, which includes a middle school, high school, two-year junior college and international scholars program. riversidemilitary.com • City of Gainesville's Denise Jordan was named Clerk of the Year by the Georgia Municipal Association. A Hall County native, Denise has been with the city 27 years. She has served as clerk for 16 years, but held several positions prior, starting as a records clerk at the police department. She transitioned to the finance department as payroll coordinator and then city clerk. gainesville.org • Megan Martin has joined the North Georgia Community Foundation as Director of Donor Engagement. Megan formerly served as Vice President of Membership Development at the Greater Hall Chamber. She is a graduate of Leadership Hall County and past chair of the Lanier Charter Career Academy Governing Board. ngcf.org • Road Atlanta's #GRIDLIFE South, an addition to the 2016 lineup, is a high-energy, high-speed weekend that brings music and motorsports together (August 26-28) for a totally immersive motorsports festival by day and an electronic music showcase by night, featuring some of the top artists in the country. roadatlanta/gridlife.com • Join us at the Chamber's Board of Directors meeting (open to members) on Thursday, August 25 at the Gainesville Civic Center at 12 pm. Chamber members, $12. Includes lunch. Reservations

required, Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x 106. Email: glewis@ghcc.com • The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. (TLC) congratulates Dr. Keshma Saujani, Center for Women's Health, on her recent selection for membership in the AIMIS “300 Club”– a group of the best 300 Minimally Invasive Surgery GYN surgeons in the U.S., who support a patient centric approach to hysterectomy and other procedures. Ten TLC physicians have been honored by Atlanta magazine as ‘Top Doctors in metro Atlanta' and include Alexander Allaire MD, Michael Connor MD, Jeff Reinhardt MD, Eugene Cindea MD, Marti Gibbs MD, Rob Richard MD, Holmes Marchman MD, Amy Bullens-Borrow MD, Karl Schultz, Jr. MD and Richard LoCicero MD. longstreetclinic.com • Elachee Nature Science Center has completed facility renovations for its new Kindergarten-1st Grade program.

The new class represents an expansion of Elachee Nature Academy’s accredited nine-month academic program offerings to now include a Nature-based K-1st Grade program in addition to the school’s acclaimed Nature-based Preschool program. elachee.org • Will Hicks, CFP®, Vice President/ Investments at Stifel in Gainesville has launched a newly designed website – hickswealthmanagement.com – featuring both static and interactive content.

Stifel’s Gainesville office is located at 212 Green Street NE. 770-531-1103.

• The University of North Georgia's Starlight Celebration & Concert is Saturday, August 27 at the G.W. Bailey Amphitheater on the Gainesville Campus. Gates open for cars at 4:30 pm. $10 per car or $20 per bus, van or larger.

Tables for six may be reserved for $100, and includes two event parking passes.

All proceeds from the event will support UNG students. Rain date for Starlight is September 10. ung.edu/starlight • Connie Stephens was recognized for 27 years of service as executive director of Hall-Dawson CASA. Stephens has retired but continues to manage two federal grants for the organization. Janet Walden, previous executive director of CASA Forsyth, took over for Stephens in July. halldawsoncasa.org

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Atlanta Falcons Host Coalition

The Chamber's South Hall Business Coalition recently met at the Atlanta Falcons Headquarters for a 2016 Season Preview (L-R): Chamber South Hall Council Vice Chair Andy Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems; Rob Geoffroy, VP Finance, AMB Sports & Entertainment; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Kevin Strada, Controller, Atlanta Falcons; Gary Smith and Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda. The Coalition meets monthly and is sponsored by AccessWDUN, Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and Store More Self Storage. The next meeting is Tuesday, August 16 at Cherokee Bluffs Park in Flowery Branch.

Details: Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com

Mandy Lathem Joins Chamber Staff

Mandy Lathem VP Membership/Events, Greater Hall Chamber

Mandy Lathem, a lifelong resident of the Gainesville area, has joined the staff of the Greater Hall Chamber as Vice President of Membership/Events. She attended Young Harris College, where she graduated with an Associate Degree in Business in 2008, and North Georgia College and State University, where she graduated in 2010 with a Bachelors Degree in Marketing. Since graduation, Mandy has served as the Executive Vice President of the Hall County Board of REALTORS®. She ran day to day operations, and her main focus was planning networking opportunities for members. Mandy joined the Chamber staff in July. Contact Mandy Lathem at 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com

Lawson AC Celebrates 70 Years Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing, a local family operated business serving the HVAC and plumbing needs of North Georgia, is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year. Seven decades of experience have transformed Lawson from its original operation as part of the Lawson Oil Company to a successful and award-winning company considered to be a leader in the air conditioning and plumbing industries. L.D. Lawson founded the company in 1946 and soon thereafter installed Hall County’s first air conditioning unit in the Diana Shop, a ladies’ apparel store on the Downtown Gainesville Square. In 1948, the company became an exclusive Carrier air conditioner dealer and remains the oldest single-line Carrier dealer in Georgia. For the past 30 years Lawson’s daughter, Debbie Lawson Davis, and her husband Vince have guided the company that has been recognized with multiple awards from Carrier, such as the 2016 President’s Award, as well as Family Business of the Year by the Greater Hall Chamber and was named North Georgia’s “Best Plumber” by The Times. Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing, 865 Dorsey Street in Gainesville. 770-536-2301. lawsonac.com

Community Development

Wed., October 5

Presented by

BREAKFAST – 7:30 am-9:00 am EXPO/SCREENINGS – 7:30 am-1:30 pm

Gainesville Civic Center Open to the public, the Greater Hall Chamber’s 10th Annual HealthSmart Expo on October 5 will feature Olympian Jeff Galloway along with over 60 wellness exhibitors and FREE Community Health Screenings for men and women 18 years and older.

Jeff Galloway, a best selling author and fitness expert, will discuss “No Pain Required: How Fitness Improves Attitude, Vitality, and Better Brain Activity” and cover his philosophy of fitness, when done correctly, always leaves a person feeling better. He’ll also speak on “Running until you’re 100” with common sense talk covering the mental side of training and fitness. Over a million runners and walkers have read Galloway books, attended his retreats and running Jeff Galloway U.S. Olympian and Author of schools, received E-coaching or individual consultaNorth America’s best selling tion or joined his training programs. His doable plans running book: Galloway’s Book have opened up the life-changing experience of finishon Running ing a distance event to almost everyone. His methods have reduced aches, pains and injuries to almost zero. Jeff is in front of an audience motivating and teaching over 200 times a year – helping those of all abilities to enjoy exercise until they are 100!

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2016 Most Fit Company Awards As part of the 10th Annual HealthSmart, the Greater Hall Chamber is conducting its annual survey for “Most Fit Company Awards” and judging criteria includes wellness, nutrition and fitness opportunities provided for employees. Presented in three company size categories: Large (251+ employees), Medium (51-250) and Small (50 or less), awards will be presented at the HealthSmart Breakfast on October 5 at 7:30 am at the Gainesville Civic Center. Breakfast reservations are required. Cost is $10 Chamber Members; $20 Non-Members. The breakfast keynote speaker is Olympian Jeff Galloway, best selling author and fitness guru. To learn more about this inspirational speaker, visit jeffgalloway.com. 2015 Winners included South State Bank, SKF USA, Hall County Sheriff's Office and Brenau University.

Complete the 2016 Most Fit Company Survey online at GreaterHallChamber.com or contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com.

The deadline to submit the Most Fit Company Survey is September 20.

Rick Kimpling, AAMS®

Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®

Beth Baldwin

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

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

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

Financial Advisor

Financial Advisor

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

Financial Advisor

August 2, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Jeff will speak at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast (Reservations Required) on Wednesday, October 5 at 7:30 a.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center and again at a FREE Wellness Seminar at the HealthSmart Expo at 10:00 am. For HealthSmart Breakfast reservations, Expo Exhibit information or Sponsorship Opportunities, contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

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Membership Development August 2, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

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Welcome New Members Belladonna Home Inspections, LLC Tony Belladonna 2581 Parker Trail Gainesville, GA 30506 - Home Inspections (678) 410-3505 belladonnahomeinspections.com CARVIR INFOSEC Jay Ryerse 410 Peachtree Parkway Suite 4245 Cumming, GA 30041 - Computers (770) 742-7700 carvir.net Chattahoochee-Oconee National Forests Judy Toppins 1755 Cleveland Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 - Non-Profit / Government (770) 297-3061 fs.usda.gov/conf Garage Door Order Center Jeff Logan 2124 Hilton Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 - Garage Doors 470-892-6017 garagedoorordercenter.com

Help At Home Susan Barnes 2420 Old Flowery Branch Rd Gainesville, GA 30504 - Medical / Home Health (770) 532-7771 helpathome.com Hoffmann Quality Tools USA, Inc Melanie Newton P.O. Box 30699 Knoxville, TN 37930 - Industrial Distributor (770) 313-4477 hoffmann-group.com

Lanier Lodge Assisted Living & Memory Care Trisha Betlejewski 2601 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville, GA 30501 - Senior Living Community (678) 971-1900 lanierlodgeassistedliving.com Prima Tappa Athletic Club Chad Hayes 4140 Falling Water Ct Flowery Branch, GA 30542 -Non-Profit / Government primatappa.com Vocational Rehabilitation Mary Ellen Mendiratta 2756 Atlanta Highway Gainesville, GA 30504 - State Government Agency (770) 535-5468 vrworks.com

Image Boutique Scott Faile 108 Washington St NW Gainesville, GA 30501 - Retail (770) 967-1300 shopimageboutique.com

To learn about membership benefits or join the Greater Hall Chamber, contact Kara Tate, VP, Membership Sales, 770-532-6206 x 116 or online at greaterhallchamber.com

Lakeside Car Wash Ralph McClelland 950 McEver Road Gainesville, GA 30504 - Auto Detailing Services (678) 971-1622 lakesidecarwashga.com

Chamber Membership Benefits

Kit Dunlap President & CEO Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

As the region's top advocate for business, the Greater Hall Chamber provides the tools you need to promote and grow your business. Chamber members benefit from the power of a strong network of diverse businesses and non-profit organizations. Plus, we connect you with those business partners so you can collaborate and create innovative ideas to build a business friendly climate in the region. With a membership base that is over 85% small businesses, the Chamber offers a variety of resources to grow small businesses. From marketing workshops to monthly seminars, the Chamber is a valuable resource to grow your business.

If you are not already a Chamber member, I encourage you to join today. Small Business represents the heart of the economy and a dominant source of job creation. The Chamber provides a wide range of services to small business owners and potential entrepreneurs, working to grow business and strengthen the economy. The Chamber’s greatest benefits are networking, relationships and lead development. Take part in the many Chamber events to meet prospective clients and generate business leads. Plus, the Chamber only refers businesses that are Chamber members. Small Business Seminars are held monthly, as well as Lunch 'n Learn meetings, Network Over Coffee, Business After Hours (on August 18 at South State Bank). Join us for these events and get the most from your membership.

Contact Kara Tate, VP Membership Sales, for membership information, 770532-6206 x 116. Email: ktate@ghcc.com. Check the Chamber calendar for more upcoming business events: greaterhallchamber.com/events

Thank You Chamber Sponsors!

We appreciate these organizations that sponsored recent Chamber Events: AccessWDUN Brenau University Hall County Parks & Leisure Highland Mountain Water Jacobs Media Corporation Lanier Technical College Main Street Gainesville Milton Martin Honda Milton Martin Toyota Northeast Georgia Health System

ProCare RX Red Clay Interactive Rushton Signs by Tomorrow South State Bank Store More Self Storage The Times Turner Wood & Smith Insurance WSI Digital Rainmakers

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

770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com

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12 Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter

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Small Business Seminar

www.gastrogainesville.com

• Barrett’s Esophagus • Cirrhosis • Crohn’s Disease

Experience and Expertise Matter Gainesville • Braselton • Demorest • Dawsonville

• Diverticulitis • Gastrointestinal Cancers (L-R): Dr. Carroll Turner, Lanier Tech Manufacturing Development Center; program presenter Al Trembley, WSI Digital Rainmakers, Terry Morrisey, Caldwell Electrical Contractors; Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance. Al Trembley's presentation reviewed WSI Digital Rainmakers' proven prospecting program to help small businesses gain the right clients. The upcoming Small Business Seminar is Tuesday, August 9 at the Greater Hall Chamber. Christopher Hanks, Founder & Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship Center, Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University, will discuss employee motivation and how to get the most out of your employees. No charge for Chamber members; $15 Non-members.

Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Shark Tank Lanier

Chamber Marketing Opportunities The Greater Hall Chamber offers members a reasonably priced marketing opportunity by including your business promotional piece in a Monthly General Mailing.

Chamber members provide a promotional piece and mailing/insert fee, and the piece is included in a packet, mailed to approximately 1650 member representatives. The Chamber limits the number of inserts in each monthly mailing to three members. Members may advertise three times per year. This service is only available to current Chamber Members in good standing. Need more information?

Contact Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x 106. Email: gcollins@ghcc.com How can your business reach thousands of prospects? Consider advertising in the Chamber's monthly Business Link newsletter. A partnership with The Times, Business Link is circulated to newspaper subscribers the first Tuesday of each month. Additionally, the newsletter is mailed to each Chamber representative. For advertising rates, contact Melisa Sizemore, Retail Sales Manager, The Times, 770535-6344 or email: msizemore@gainesvilletimes.com

• Hepatitis • Ulcerative Colitis • Celiac Disease • Constipation • Diarrhea • Gastritis • Hemorrhoids • Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) • H. Pylori Infection • Ulcers

Established in 1981, we have over 35 years of experience in treating digestive issues and diseases.

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August 2, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Watch as a few budding entrepreneurs get the chance to pitch their business plans to a panel of local “Sharks” at the Chamber's upcoming Small Business Seminar.

This fun program will demonstrate what to do and what not to do when trying to finance a business. Shark Tank Lanier is Tuesday, September 13, 7:45-9:30 am (extended time) at the MDC/Featherbone, 999 Chestnut Street in Gainesville.

Moderator, Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions, Small Business Roundtable ViceChair. Sharks: Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance; Dr. Carroll Turner, Lanier Tech Manufacturing Development Center; Lane Jones, Past Chair, Small Business Roundtable. Sponsored by Highland Mountain Beverage, Jacobs Media, Signs by Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers.

No charge for Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Details: Amanda Lewis, Project Manager, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

• GERD

Small Business

Common Digestive Diseases

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Ribbon Cuttings

Riggy's Grill in Gainesville Owners Teri and Robert Alberhasky cut ribbon at Riggy’s Sports Grill, a full service restaurant offering a 132" Golden Tee golf experience, seven competition Olhausen pool tables, four custom built dart boards, two big screens, great food and beverages, and a friendly staff. Riggy’s takes pride in their made-from-scratch recipes, custom cocktails and constant updates of their beer selections to cater to every taste. Riggy’s serves their delicious food late, and will become your favorite spot to relax and unwind. Riggy’s Grill, 2415 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. 678-943-8067.

Ranger Lock Security Devices

Mike McGraw, President, cuts ribbon at Ranger Lock, a provider of a wide array of security devices with different levels of protection. Their ATF-Compliant Lock Box is now exclusively made in Georgia! By taking one of the absolute best security products and manufacturing it right here in the US, Ranger Lock is upping the ante on security devices. Now, not only will you be certain that your most valuable and/or dangerous cargo is Ranger Lock secure, you also have the added value of a made in the USA product. Ranger Lock, 999 Chestnut Street, SE in Gainesville. 770-531-8031. rangerlock.com

August 2, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Hop's Kitchen in Gainesville

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Owner and operator Mark Hopkins cuts ribbon at Hop's Kitchen. After finishing culinary school in Los Angeles in 2010, Mark fell in love with the farm-totable lifestyle. He worked his way through the ranks at Canelé, a farmers market driven restaurant with a Mediterranean take on French cuisine, and decided to make his way back home to Gainesville to open a unique sandwich shop. Hop’s Kitchen provides traditional and unique takes on locally sourced and seasonal sandwiches, salads, soups and sweets. 999 Chestnut Street in Gainesville. 770-654-8022. Facebook.com/HopsKitchenGeorgia

Simple ways to feather your nest.

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South Hall Chiropractic Clinic

Dr. Brandon McAlister cuts ribbon at South Hall Chiropractic Clinic. The clinic treats conditions from sciatica to headaches in a friendly, family environment. Dr. McAlister has over ten years experience working with complex cases from the very young to the young at heart. Chiropractic care and decompression therapy can be a safe alternative to surgery or complement a patient’s current medical care. South Hall Chiropractic Clinic, 4218 McEver Road, Suite B, Oakwood, GA 30566. 770-503-1700. southhallcc.com

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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. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial Planner™ and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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We join in recognizing your dedication and commitment to providing the highest quality care to all of the patients we serve.

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BANK & TRUST

325 Washington St., Gainesville, GA 770-536-1100 • www.peachstatebank.com

Upcoming Chamber Events Tuesday, August 9 Small Business Seminar "How to Motivate Employees" Presented by Christopher Hanks Kennesaw State University 7:45 am - 9:00 am – Chamber

Thursday, August 18 Business After Hours Sponsored by South State Bank 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm 450 E.E. Butler Parkway in Downtown Gainesville

Tuesday, August 16 South Hall Business Coalition "Hall County Parks & Leisure and Highlands to Islands Trail Update" 8:00 am - 9:00 am Cherokee Bluffs Park in Flowery Branch

Tuesday, August 23 Healthcare Reform Seminar 8:00 am - 12:00 pm Brenau Downtown Center Theatre Downtown Gainesville Square OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!

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

Business After Hours & Tailgate Party 2016 Thursday, September 15 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Conditioned Air Systems 2410 Hilton Way in Gainesville Food by THE VARSITY!

Details & Register Online greaterhallchamber.com

Member

CAR-RT SORT

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