Businesslinkdec2015

Business Link G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m

Annual Legislative Forum

Chairman's Column Page 2

Thursday, December 10 7:30 - 9:30 AM Gainesville Civic Center

2015 Industry of the Year Awards Pages 4-5

Sponsored by

Upcoming Events Page 6 Member Announcements Page 10

Lt. Governor Casey Cagle

Senator Butch Miller

State of Georgia

49th Georgia Senate District

Business Beautification Awards Page 11 Welcome New Members Page 12 Small Business of the Month Page 12 VISION 2030 Pages 14 Ribbon Cuttings Page 15

Senator John Wilkinson

Rep. Lee Hawkins

Rep. Carl Rogers

Rep. Emory Dunahoo, Jr.

Rep. Timothy Barr

50th Georgia Senate District

27th Georgia House District

29th Georgia House District

30th Georgia House District

103rd Georgia House District

The Greater Hall Chamber continues to assist local businesses and citizens in communicating their concerns and discussing issues at the Eggs & Issues Breakfast on Thursday, December 10. Sponsored by Jackson EMC, the event features Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and the Gainesville-Hall County legislative delegation for the Georgia House of Representatives and State Senate. Open to the public. $25 Chamber members; $30 non-members. Full buffet breakfast. Reservations required. Non- refundable if canceled after December 4. Reservations: Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x 106 or gcollins@ghcc.com

Save the Date Friday, December 4 Business Before Hours Thursday, December 10 Eggs & Issues Breakfast Tuesday, December 15 South Hall Business Coalition

DECEMBER 2015

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

From the Chairman

Local Businesses Create Local Jobs When you shop, dine and purchase services in Gainesville-Hall County, you give our community the best gift of all – your sales tax dollars. Your local buying generates sales tax dollars that work throughout the year to improve our community in many different ways.

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

Your dollars spent with locally-owned businesses not only have a great impact on the local economy, but also simultaneously create jobs, fund more services through sales tax, invest in neighborhood improvement and promote community development. When your dollars are spent in another community, those dollars stay in that community. The sales tax generated goes to paying for another county's roads, schools and parks.

Small, local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community provide the most jobs to residents. Some 85% of Greater Hall Chamber members are small businesses. Shopping online with out-of-state companies or in malls in neighboring counties does not contribute a penny to our local economy. I hope we'll all consider supporting our greatest resources: local customers and local small businesses. You'll find local businesses value, respect and appreciate your patronage. During the holiday season, consider gifts from a local company, or donate to one of our many non-profits in honor of a friend or family member. We are fortunate to have a wide range of diverse shopping opportunities right here in Gainesville-Hall County.

Several upcoming events promote our buy local campaign. Most recently, Main Street Gainesville sponsored the Annual Jingle Mingle, and the entire Downtown Square came alive with festivities and open houses. The Chamber's Buy Local Safe & Green Expo is scheduled for February 4, 2016 from 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center. The Expo will feature exhibits spotlighting dozens of businesses, products and services available here in Gainesville-Hall County. The Annual SAFE & GREEN Environmental, Health & Safety Forum will be held in conjunction with the Expo. The event is open to the public, will feature over 60 exhibitors and offers great networking opportunities and product awareness for local companies.

December 1, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Buying locally. It’s about making your hard-earned money go further, fueling the local economy, and helping to preserve the unique character of Gainesville-Hall County. You have a choice of where you eat, shop, and do business. On your next purchase, make the best decision. Buy local.

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Chamber Delegation Visits Capitol

Business Link VOLUME 21 ISSUE 6 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 Kristi Barker, Georgia Power 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 Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance 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 Venue Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage Jay Kelley, 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 Schraeder, 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

Greater Hall Chamber Delegation in Washington, DC (L-R): William Bagwell, Homestead Investments; Chamber Chairman-Elect Lee Hemmer, The Simpson Company; Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging; Deb Bailey, Northeast Georgia Health System; Garrett Wiley, Greater Hall Chamber Government Affairs; Tate O’Rouke, University of North Georgia; Lee Chapman, Jackson EMC; Kit Dunlap, Chamber President & CEO; Congressman Doug Collins (Georgia); House Majority Leader Congressman Kevin McCarthy (California); Chamber Chairman Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction; Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Chamber Vice Chair Government Affairs John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates; Chamber Past Chairman David Lee, Jackson EMC.

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

December 1, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Economic Development

2015 Industry of the Year Awards

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(L-R): Tim Evans, VP Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber; Greg Ours, President & Owner of Poly Enterprises; Dr. Ray Perren, President, Lanier Technical College.

Poly Enterprises received Industry of Year in the small employer category.

Poly Enterprises (1-50 Employees) / Greg Ours, President and Owner Founded 40 years ago, Poly Enterprises is a molded vinyl manufacturer of physical educational flooring, mats, counter mats and is the world’s largest manufacturer of bar mats. The company employs 49 people and has an aggressive safety program.

One of the company's keys to success is breaking into new markets. They have added 25 new customers this year. Poly Enterprises has initiated a partnership with East Hall High School, hiring students to work onsite as well as employees volunteering at the school. The entire Leadership TEAM is required to attend continuing education classes as well as onsite training, and the company always looks to advance from within before hiring from outside. polyenterprises.com Mugele of America (51-200 Employees) / Benjamin Sippl, Vice President & CFO A domestic and international third-party logistics (3PL) provider, Mugele specializes in customer-oriented logistic solutions. Mugele employs 82 people at the Gainesville facility and has expanded operations into a second facility in Hall County adding 20% more capacity. With the expansion, Mugele expects to continue growing in the range of 10% per year in revenue while adding more jobs in Hall County. The company is a proud supporter of United Way and is a Certified Drug Free Workplace. Mugele participates in workforce development initiatives by employing high school apprentices and works with colleges to assist young people in choosing their careers while being an advocate for their industry. mugele.com Marel Stork Poultry Processing (201+ Employees) / Michael Otterbach, Vice President A leading global provider of advanced equipment, systems and services, Marel is a 71-year-old company recently expanding from strictly poultry into the meat, fish and further processing industries. As a result, Marel invested $2 million in new equipment, building expansion, and increased their workforce from 230 to 300 employees. Marel was awarded the Chamber’s 2014 Employer Recognition Award and ongoing civic involvement includes donating resources to Good News Clinics and United Way of Hall County. Marel fosters interest in the agriculture industry as a career path for students, invested in new equipment to improve the ergonomics for workers, and converted to 100% recyclable packing materials. marel.com Wrigley Manufacturing / Corporate Responsibility Award A subsidiary of Mars Inc., Wrigley has produced chewing gum at the site in South Hall County for nearly 45 years. The plant employs 750 people and manufactures sugar free gum brands Extra, 5 gum, Orbit and Eclipse. Wrigley expects production volume to increase by nearly 50% from 2014 through 2016, and is adding some 155 jobs in 2015 and 2016. The site’s safety program has resulted in over 9M hours without a Lost Time Injury. Wrigley was the first official Partner in Education and continues to give back to the community by volunteering for the Redbud Project, the local food bank and educating students about oral health. wrigley.com Sapa Extrusions NA / Safety Recognition Award Sapa is the world’s leading supplier of value added aluminum profile solutions to the construction, transport, office and engineering sectors with 23 North American locations and presence in over 40 countries. Sapa has 360 employees in Hall County and continually seeks ways to reduce energy, electricity, and water usage.

With all employees' efforts centered around safety, the manufacturer has seen a great reduction in recordable injuries and the frequency and severity rate. Sapa is a recipient of the Chamber’s Most Fit Company Award, recognizing employers with outstanding health and wellness initiatives. sapagroup.com ZF - TRW Automotive / Environmental Steward Award An automotive supplier with a primary focus on safety components, ZF-TRW Automotive employs 448 people and manufactures foundation brakes. The company spent over $8 million in capital projects this year. ZF-TRW’s recycling program includes cardboard/paper, scrap metal, universal waste and oil absorbent materials. They completed an energy project by replacing 500 haloid lights with P5 high efficiency lights. In 2015, the company joined the Hall County work-based learning program and have created line lead positions to increase their employees’ advancement opportunities. trw.com

(L-R): Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; Jon Garcia, Executive Director of Quality & HR, Mugele of America; Benjamin Sippl, Vice President of Mugele. Mugele of America was named Industry of the Year in the medium-size, 51-200 employees, category.

(L-R): Michael Otterbach, Vice President of Regional Manufacturing, Marel and Dr. Ray Perren, President, Lanier Technical College. Marel Stork Poultry Processing was the recipient of the Industry of the Year Award in the large-size, 201+ employees, category. The Industry Appreciation Luncheon was presented by Lanier Technical College with over 300 guests attending.

PERFORMANCE Foodservice / Workforce Excellence Award With 560 employees, PERFORMANCE Foodservice delivers over 12,000 food and food-related products to every kind of eatery throughout Georgia and nearby states.

To assist associates with balancing work and lifestyle, they offer employee benefits, along with health and wellness programs. The company provides performance bonus programs, tuition reimbursement, employee educational programs, annual family events, an Employee Assistance Program (EAP), health screenings, tobacco cessation programs and ongoing opportunities for self-advancement through on and off-site training facilities. performancefoodservice.com IMS Gear Georgia Inc. / Workforce Development Award A recipient of the Chamber’s Industry of the Year Award in 2011 and the Corporate Citizen Award in 2013, IMS Gear employs 300 and manufactures automotive actuators and actuator components. The company has implemented a progressive workforce development program to meet the demands of industrial technology with college interns onsite and the development of a “German-style” apprenticeship program with Lanier Technical College. The company offers tuition reimbursement, employee training plans, and onsite employee educational programs. IMS Gear hosts student/teacher groups to tour the facility by appointment and employees/managers often speak at schools. imsgear.com

Industry Recognition Awards

Ellen Perkins Sanders, M.D.

Greater Hall Chamber 2015 Industry Recognition Awards were presented at the Industry Appreciation Luncheon on November 17. Shelley Davis, Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Existing Industry with Recipients (L-R): Juergen Moller of IMS Gear Georgia Inc. (Workforce Development Award); Rich Niemeier of ZF-TRW Automotive (Environmental Steward Award); Don Leamon of Sapa Extrusions (Safety Recognition Award); Danny Berry of PERFORMANCE Foodservice (Workforce Excellence Award); Jim Fitzgerald of Wrigley Manufacturing (Corporate Responsibility Award).

Dr. Ellen Perkins Sanders is a graduate of Duke University School of Medicine and completed her residency at Medical University of South Carolina.

Before joining The Longstreet Clinic, Dr. Sanders practiced as a family physician in Summerville.

A graduate of North Hall High School, she has strong ties to Hall County.

The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. Family Medicine - Oakwood provides comprehensive medical care for the family.

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Services include: •

Economic Development

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• Care of chronic and acute illnesses • Work, school and sports physicals

• Laboratory and imaging services Industry Appreciation Luncheon Keynote Speaker Jackie Rohosky, Assistant Commissioner of Economic Development for the Technical College System of Georgia and head of Quick Start, and Chamber Past Chairman David Lee, Jackson EMC. Since January 1, 2014, 49 new and expanded businesses have announced 2,500 new jobs and $450 million in capital investment for Gainesville Hall County.

Thank You Industry Appreciation Sponsors Presenting Sponsor: Lanier Technical College Gold Sponsors: Merial, Rushton & Company and Liberty Utilities Silver Sponsors: AT&T, Georgia Power, Jackson EMC, King’s Hawaiian, Spherion Professional Recruiting and SYFAN Logistics, Inc. Table Sponsors: Carroll Daniel Construction, Corporate Storage LLC, Electronic Sales Company, HTI Employment Solutions, Lanier Islands, MP Equipment LLC, Northeast Georgia Occupational Medicine, Pattillo Industrial Real Estate, PERFORMANCE Foodservice, Poly Enterprises, Primary Care Clinics of Georgia, ResourceMFG, Rochester & Associates, Wells Fargo, Wilheit Packaging

• Cosmetic procedures • Diabetes education • Medical nutrition therapy Now accepting new patients in Oakwood!

770-534-6053

4222 Fairbanks Drive, Oakwood, GA 30566 longstreetclinic.com/family

December 1, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

• Preventive medicine

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Meetings & Events

Jingle Mingle on the Square (L-R): Elizabeth Waters; Mary Beth Begley, The Crystal Plate; Judy Morris and Mary Stanford, Floral Passions.

Shoppers of all ages enjoyed Main Street Gainesville's Jingle Mingle on the Square in Downtown Gainesville in November with open houses at shops and festivities for the entire family. Remember to support our small businesses and BUY LOCAL this Holiday Season!

Don't miss a morning of networking at Business BEFORE Hours at Milton Martin Toyota's new showroom in Oakwood on Friday, December 4 from 7:30 - 9:00 a.m. Come see the new showroom featuring a Chick-fil-A Café, an outdoor fireplace and lounge! No Charge! Complimentary Breakfast! Located between the QT and Regions Bank from Mundy Mill Road. Exit 16 or Exit 17 off I-985.

Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

DECEMBER 2015 Wednesday, December 2 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

NOTE: No Chamber Board of Directors, Economic Development Council or Vision 2030 Board Meeting in December.

Friday, December 4 Business Before Hours Sponsored by Milton Martin Toyota 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood

JANUARY 2016

Tuesday, December 8 Youth Leadership Hall Community Service Program 8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Boys & Girls Clubs of Hall County Wednesday, December 9 Network Over Coffee 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

The Rooster Perch Coffee Shop 210 Bradford Street in Gainesville Thursday, December 10 Eggs & Issues Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Thursday, December 10 Leadership Hall County Judicial Program 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

December 1, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Tuesday, December 15 South Hall Business Coalition "Panel Discussion with Area Non-Profits" 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch

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Thursday, January 14 VISION 2030 Board of Directors Presentation by OneHall: Community of Inclusion Committee 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Thursday, January 14 Business After Hours Sponsored by Halski Systems 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Friday, January 15 Logistics Summit 8:00 a.m. – University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus / Cont Ed Building Tuesday, January 19 South Hall Business Coalition Update: Lanier Technical College 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Lanier Technical College / Oakwood Tuesday, January 26 Small Business Workshop "Lean Principles for Small Business" presented by Dr. James Taylor 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Brenau University / Jacobs Building FEBRUARY 2016

Wednesday, December 16 Issues Committee 8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, February 4 Buy Local Expo / Safe & Green Expo: 2:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Business After Hours: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center

Thursday, December 17 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Chamber

Get all the details on these and other Upcoming Chamber Events Online: GreaterHallChamber.com

Thank You Chamber Event Sponsors Brenau University • Chick-fil-A of Gainesville Highland Mountain Beverage • Jacobs Media Corporation Jackson EMC • Lakeview Academy • Main Street Gainesville Milton Martin Honda • Milton Martin Toyota • Peach State Bank Red Clay Interactive • Regions Bank • Signs by Tomorrow University of North Georgia Economic Development The Times • WSI Digital Rainmakers

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December 1, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Member Announcements

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• Established in 1984, Children’s Center for Hope and Healing (CCHH), a non-profit dedicated to breaking the cycle of child sexual abuse, announces a new Leadership Team. Sam Shoemaker is Executive Director. Sam has over 25 years of experience in the mental health field with extensive work with children, adolescents and families.

He most recently served as Deputy Director at Avita Community Partners.

Dr. Susan Collins is the new Clinical Director. She joined CCHH in 2009 to reorganize the women’s services program and continues with a passion to provide therapy to those who have survived sexual abuse. Cindy Wilson is the new Director of Development and her responsibilities include community outreach, fundraising, marketing and PR. CCHH offers no-cost therapeutic services to children and adult survivors of sexual abuse. hopeandhealingga.org • The City of Gainesville has installed an electric car charging station in the Main Street parking lot that fronts Jesse Jewell Parkway near the Downtown Square. The station is FREE, serves two electric vehicles at a time, and seeks to encourage shoppers to area shops and restaurants. Georgia is one of the fastest growing states in electric car sales, and Atlanta is one of the dominant markets outside of California. gainesville.org • The Chamber is planning the Arbor Day 2016 celebration and will sponsor, in partnership with the Hall County Master Gardeners, Georgia Power and Keep Hall Beautiful, an Arbor Day Art Contest for 3rd graders and Essay Contest for 5th graders. Cash prize!

Educators, contact Robin Halstead, 770532-6206. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com • Governor Deal appointed Hall County Solicitor General Stephanie Woodard to the Criminal Justice Reform Council.

The council conducts reviews of criminal laws, criminal procedure, sentencing laws, adult correctional issues and juvenile justice issues. Woodard looks forward to continuing the council's work of protecting public safety while controlling prison costs, holding offenders accountable and promoting successful reentry programs like the one we have here in Hall County. hallcounty.org • JT Stratford, an SEC registered investment advisory firm headquartered in Gainesville, celebrated its 20 year anniversary in November. The firm has grown since its inception and currently employs a staff of 10 with three offices in Georgia and North Carolina. 770534-6046. jtstratford.com

• With 17,289 students enrolled, the University of North Georgia has the second-highest percentage of enrollment growth in the University System of Georgia for fall semester 2015. ung.edu • City of Gainesville Fire Chief Jerome Yarbrough was honored with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County's 2015 Helping Hands Award for his dedication and service to the Club and the community. boysgirlsclubs.com • Founder Lee Goff and CEO Melissa Allen announced that GetUWired, a small business marketing automation firm in Dahlonega, was recognized in Entrepreneur's Top Company Cultures list, a comprehensive ranking of U.S.based businesses exhibiting high-performance cultures. GetUWired was recognized for its exceptional culture that drives employees, exceeds employee expectations and directly impacts company success. entrepreneur.com • Longtime Chamber member and supporter Gordon Sawyer died in November. The Gainesville author, radio commentator and history buff served on the Chamber Board of Directors and received both the Silver Shovel and Distinguished Citizen Awards. Sawyer was active with the Northeast Georgia History Center, the Quinlan Visual Arts Center and was a radio commentator and columnist for AccessWDUN, and wrote six books about the history and people of the Southern mountains.

• With the recent opening of Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton’s state-of-the-art radiation therapy suite, the Braselton community now has access to the most advanced cancer fighting technologies and services, including advanced imaging services, medical oncology and minimally invasive and robotic surgery. nghs.com/braselton • Gateway Domestic Violence Center has launched a new, responsively designed website with user-friendly navigation and easy-to-find information about services, resources, support groups and tips for recognizing signs of domestic violence. The site also features a secure donation tool and a prominent “Safe Exit” button keeps at-risk visitors safe by quickly redirecting to Google when clicked. gatewaydvcenter.org • With funds from our local government, private corporations and a grant from the Atlanta Regional Commission, Gainesville-Hall ’96, the organization that operates the Lake Lanier Olympic Venue, will invest $10 million to renovate and update the site that still provides training and competition for

canoe, kayak and rowing events that draw athletes globally. The initial $1.7 million will fund accessible ramps from the Olympic plaza to the finish tower, accessible restroom facilities and other enhancements to make the site navigable by everyone. llov.org • Hall County Government held a grand opening for Cherokee Bluffs Park, a 168-acre, park in Flowery Branch near the Sterling on the Lake subdivision.

Construction at the park was paid for by impact fees and SPLOST VI funds and includes the development of trails, pavilions, a 2,500-square-foot communi-

ty building and a 300-400 seat amphitheater. hallcounty.org • Five Gainesville-Hall County business leaders were recognized in North Atlanta Business Post’s inaugural “40 Under 40” list and include Katie Dubnik, Forum Communications; Brett Fowler, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Venue; Tate O’Rouke, University of North Georgia; and Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging.

GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com

Business After Hours at Homestar Thank you Homestar for sponsoring the November Business After Hours at your new offices in the newly renovated Historic Gym of 36 building (332 Washington Street) in Downtown Gainesville. (L-R): Bridgett and Wes Hunt and daughter, Tori.

Wes is President and CEO of Homestar Financial Corporation, a full service mortgage banker. homestarfc.com

Enchanting, Whimsical, Delicious

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Business Beautification Awards

For Beautification Award information, contact Robin Halstead, VP of Community Development, 770-532-6206 x 100. Email: rhalstead@ghcc.com

Buy Local Expo / Safe & Green

During this holiday season and every day of the year, we wish you all the best.

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Exhibit Space & Sponsorships Now Available!

The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual BUY LOCAL EXPO is Thursday, February 4 from 2:00 pm to 7:00 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center.

The event will highlight the many products and services available right here in Gainesville-Hall County. SAFE & GREEN, focusing on environmental and safety products, is held in conjunction with the Buy Local Expo. The event is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC. Exhibit space and sponsorships are now available. The Buy Local Expo and Safe & Green will feature over 70 exhibits of local businesses and non-profits. Business After Hours is 5:00-7:00 pm at the Expo at the Gainesville Civic Center! For exhibit space and sponsorship information, contact Megan Martin at the Chamber, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® Financial Advisor

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

www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC

December 1, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

Award recipient Sullivan & Schlieman Wealth Management LLC specializes in financial, retirement, investment, estate and tax planning.

Company founders Andrew Sullivan and Josh Schlieman purchased the property in 2014 from the late attorney Josh Schleiman and Colette Hollifield at Sullivan & Wyc Orr and his family.

Schlieman, 641 Green Street in Gainesville.

Built in the early 1900’s, the building has been well maintained for over 110 years. The firm completed a small renovation project shortly after acquiring the building in an effort to showcase the beautiful establishment. sullivanandschlieman.com

Merry Christmas

Community Development

Business Beautification Award recipient, The Oxley Group, was founded by Andrew Oxley and is a performance focused training and consulting firm dealing with national clients as diverse as Cartier, Progressive Insurance, Coca-Cola, TBS, Mohawk Carpets Andrew and Traci Oxley at The Oxley Group located at 131 and CNN; as well as Green Street in Downtown Gainesville. local clients such as Syfan Logistics, United Way and Gold Creek Foods. The building was originally a popular local gathering place in the 1950's as a Pure Oil gas station. The Oxley Group utilizes the building as its corporate headquarters and a training center for its network of consulting partners and facilitators. transformingresults.com

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Small Business

Lean Principles for Small Business Small Business of the Month Brenau University's Dr. James Taylor will conduct "Lean Lint Security & Service Company Principles for Small Business" on Tuesday, January 26 from 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. at Brenau University (Jacobs Building/340 Green Street in Gainesville).

This workshop will cover ways to apply principles of continuous improvement to small business. Dr. Taylor will draw from such topics as Lean (based upon the Toyota Production System), Six Sigma, Quality and simple business analytics. Participants will gain knowledge that will help them improve their management approach, and more importantly, leave with some very specific actions in mind. Cost: $15 Chamber Members; $30 Non-Members; Includes Light Breakfast. Reservations: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com Professor James Taylor has a BS in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from the University of Chicago. He is a 30 year veteran of the automotive industry. His fields of experience have included design engineering, sales, project management, quality and continuous improvement fields such as Six Sigma and Lean. He was a Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) and certified Six Sigma Master Black Belt. He has been at Brenau since 2007 and is Assistant Professor of Management.

Welcome New Members!

Beehive Homes Nikul Parikh 1073 South Enota Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 596-2934 - Senior Living Community beehivehomes.com

December 1, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

David W. Stewart Accounting Services, LLC David Stewart 560 Long Oak Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 827-5592 - Finance / Accounting Evelyn Asher 5325 Raintree Trail Oakwood, GA 30566 - Individual Membership Fresenius Medical Center Beth Sheeler 1492 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville, GA 30501

(678) 989-0231 - Medical Services freseniusmedicalcare.us His Field 4 Life - Young Living Essential Oils Lisa Carr 3732 Reservoir Drive Gainesville, GA 30507 (678) 769-7070 - Health / Wellness yl4life.org/hisfield4life

Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 617-5527 - Non-Profit randyandfriends.org ShelfGenie Nina Ward 5500 Interstate North Pkwy Suite 250 Atlanta, GA 30328 (877) 434-3643 - Custom Shelving shelfgenie.com

Lazer Spot George Tallent 6525 Shiloh Road Suite 900 Alpharetta, GA 30005 (678) 771-2600 - Employment / Staffing lazerspot.com

Tula Executive Search Bernard Vanderlande 3355 Lenox Road, 7th Floor Atlanta, GA 30326 (404) 543-2835 - Employment / Staffing tulainternational.com

Randy and Friends Inc. Marty Owens 210 Bradford Street

Join the Chamber online: GreaterHallChamber.com or call 770-532-6206.

ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967

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Founded 30 years ago, Lint Security is the creation of James Lint following his home being burglarized. With his knowledge of electronics from working at Southern Bell for many years, he designed his first alarm system using a car battery and a chickJimmy, James and Jean Lint, Elizabeth Bliss and Marybeth en house siren. ToMartin of Lint Security, Chamber Small Business of the Month. day, Lint Security is one of the largest security companies in Northeast Georgia. The family operated business includes James, wife Jean and son, Jimmy, as vice president. Working for the company since he was 16 years old, Jimmy has built personal relationships with each customer and the community. Lint Security designs, installs and services residential and commercial security and fire systems, video systems as well as access control systems. Technology has come a long way since James’ first system, but all projects are installed with the same attention to detail that he placed on protecting his family years ago. They treat your home as their own – with honesty, reliability and integrity – and seek to keep our community safe. 2490 Hilton Drive, Suite C, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-536-7021. lintsecurity.com

984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA 30501 770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com

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Small Business Development

South Hall Business Coalition

1/2 Page Ad 4 columns 9" x5"

May the true spirit of Christmas shine in your heart and light your path.

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SyfanLogistics.com | 855.287.8485 | 770.287.8485 | Gainesville, GA 0160 Syfan Holiday Biz Link ad.indd 1

December 1, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

every perfect gift Every good gift and g down from the is from above, comin whom there is no Father of lights with due to change. variation or shadow James 1:17

The Greater Hall Chamber's November Small Business Seminar focused on entrepreneurship (L-R): David Stewart, DW Stewart Accounting; Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance; Mary Ellen McClanahan, Georgia Department of Economic Development (Presenter); Carroll Turner, Ph.D., Lanier Technical College Manufacturing Development Center; Al Trembley, WSI Digital Rainmakers (Sponsor).

Monthly Chamber Small Business Seminars cover a variety of issues important to small business development and are sponsored by Highland Mountain Beverage, Jacobs Media Corporation, Signs By Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers.

(Note: No Small Business Seminar in December.) For more information on seminars or other Small Business Develop programs, contact Amanda Lewis, Project Manager, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Small Business

(L-R): Bill Donohue, Executive Director, Lake Lanier Islands Development Authority; Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber; Grier Todd, Vice President of Hospitality, Lanier Islands. The Chamber's South Hall Business Coalition recently met at Lanier Islands Legacy Lodge for an update on the resort, the Magical Night of Lights and the now open Winter Adventure: a snowpacked winter playland with tubing, sledding and much more. The Coalition will meet Tuesday, December 15 at 8:00 a.m. at the Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch. South Hall Non-Profits will provide updates on their organizations.

Mark your calendar for the South Hall Business Coalition meeting on Tuesday, January 19 for an update on Lanier Technical College. Chamber South Hall Business Coalition meetings are sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and Red Clay Interactive. Light breakfast included. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members.

Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

11/17/15 12:27 PM

Key Economic Indicators

Vision 2030’s Public Art Committee has launched the Free Range Art Project.

(L-R): Jim Chapman, Gladys Wyant, Carl Romberg, Jack Burd, Mark Alexander, Jim Mathis, Mary Frances Hull, Tina Carlson, Frank Norton Jr., Clayton Santiago and Elizabeth Higgins. Free Range Art is an ongoing series of two-dimensional works of art, outside the traditional walls of galleries and free for public viewing. The first piece, “Two Bad Llamas” was reproduced from a tin mosaic (8' x 8') by artist Mary Frances Hull, contributed by a private donor and is now located at The Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville.

The Vision 2030 project works in partnership with the Quinlan Visual Arts Center and has selected the first six artists for the series: Mary Frances Hull, Clayton Santiago, Frances Byrd, Ann Alexander, Zoe Head and Sharon Farkas. qvac.org

December 1, 2015 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

VISION 2030 and Greenspace

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Linwood Nature Preserve, a public-private partnership of Gainesville Parks and Recreation and the Redbud Project, recently opened with two miles of nature trails, an Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary, Rain Gardens, a Native Plant Garden, and is part a Community Forest of the Old-Growth Forest Network, one of only seven in the U.S. VISION 2030 Gainesville City officials and volunteers from the VISION 2030 Greenspace Committee Greenspace Committee, Gainesville Parks & Recreation and the Chair John Girardeau Redbud Project cut "vine" at Linwood Nature Preserve. spoke at the "vine" cutting and noted that Georgia has 22 million acres of private forest. That forest, which includes the soil, the plants, the birds, animals and insects, provides $37.6 billion in water filtration, flood prevention and carbon sequestration. An acre of trees in Linwood will absorb enough carbon dioxide over a year to equal the amount produced by a car driven 26,000 miles. Tree canopy can reduce urban noise by 50%. It can reduce energy costs for heating and air conditioning. Dr. Alfie Meek of Georgia Tech and Dr. Jeffery Dorfman of the University of Georgia conducted an investment analysis and found that for every $1 invested by government in land and water conservation over a recent 14 year period returned $5 in natural goods and services to the Georgia economy. "It makes clear that what happens to our natural environment happens to our health, our wealth, and our children," said Girardeau. "Conserving land though parks, trails and greenspace such as Linwood isn’t just for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and an elite few. It’s for everyone who requires clean water, good health, happy children, invigorating play and economic prosperity. The world we live in is created by the visions we hold. Let’s take the vision we hold and make it a reality.

And let’s do it now, before it’s too late." vision2030.org/green-space-initiative

Greater Hall County Area Jobless Employment Rates Hall County

Gainesville City 6

10

Cherokee 5.1

Leadership Hall Ranch (L-R): Christy Payne, TheDawson 5.5 Longstreet Clinic; Krista Latest 8 at Eagle gh Hi 12-Month Aug. 2015 Masterpiece 2014 Charlie Hawkins, The Norton Agency; Joe Selbee, Sept Goodrich, Mixers; Forsyth 4.9 6 6.7% Hulsey, Stewart, Melvin & Frost; Blake 5.3 Hathaway; Berkshire Ronny Poole, Fox, Gwinnett 5.6 Previous Month Chandler, Homas, Hicks & McKinnon; Judy St. Pierre, Northeast Georgia Diagnostic 4 July 2015 Jackson 5.3 Clinic.

The class starting the Education Program at Lakeview Academy with an 5.3 and tour Ga Intelligences Mountains 5.6 2 overview

by Dr. John Kennedy. At Enota Multiple Academy, StateCreel, of Georgia 6.5 Year Ago the One class heard from Principal Wesley Roach and Dr. Wanda Superintendent Aug. 2014 Gainesville City Schools.

At World Language Academy Will Schofield, Superintendent U.S. 5.3 A S O N D J F M A M J J A 2 0 1 4 about the future 2 of 0 1education.

5 Hall6.6 County Schools, spoke Lunch at Eagle Ranch Updated 09/28 included a presentation by founder Eddie Staub. Jeff Jenkins, Assistant Principal 3.0 at Lanier Charter Career Academy, led the class on a school tour. The class heard about the University of North Georgia Gainesville's biology department by Dr. Allison Bailey, then ended the day with a tour of Tumbling Creek Preserve and the Hall County proposed greenway, a partnership with Vision 2030. Thank you UNG Economic 2.0 Latest Development for sponsoring lunch and Lakeview Academy for bus transportation.

Percent

VISION 2030

Free Range Art Project Launched Leadership Hall County

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Associated Credit Union

Ribbon Cuttings

Branch Manager Gay Bradley cuts ribbon at the newly relocated Associated Credit Union (ACU) in Oakwood.

ACU is one of Georgia's oldest financial institutions, chartered in 1930 to provide lowcost financial services to members. The non-profit cooperative is owned by members and offers

Growing futures.

It’s what we do.

a wide variety of products and services to its members in Georgia, across the U.S. and overseas. 4236 McEver Road, Oakwood, GA 30566. 770-503-7472. acuonline.org

4 Aces Real Estate in Gainesville John Schwartz and Jessica Wade owners and co-founders, cut the ribbon at 4 Aces Real Estate in Gainesville. 4 Aces specializes in assisting customers with buying and selling homes in Hall County as well as lot and acreage sales and purchases. John has over 26 years of residential real estate experience in Hall County. 4 Aces Real Estate, 310 Academy Street, NW, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-971-2237. 4acesrealestate.com

The Greater Hall Chamber is gearing up for a new Community Guide. In partnership with Great Southern Publishing and 365 Degree Total Marketing, the guide includes valuable information for newcomers, as well as established businesses and residents.

The 2016 Community Guide will feature “2 ADS in 1” with purchases to include print and online ads which link to your site. The online version can be changed quarterly or replaced with a video. Link to the current guide on the Chamber's homepage, greaterhallchamber.com. Secure your prime position now in the Official 2016 Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Community Guide. Contact Nelson Smith, 404-625-4153, or email: nelson@365degreetotalmarketing.com

Wishing you the merriest Christmas and most prosperous New Year.

December 1, 2015 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times

New Chamber Community Guide

Celebrating Christmas 1/2 Page Ad It’s what’s important.

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hristmas is, indeed, the most wonderful time of the year. At Peach State Bank & Trust, we wish you and your family a safe, joyous and memorable Christmas and a healthy, prosperous New Year. As we pause to reflect on 2015, we are reminded of the exceptional people who grace our doorway, our customers whom we have the pleasure to serve. We look forward to continuing to serve you for years to come.

UpcomingChamber Chamber Events Upcoming Events Friday, December 4

Small Business Marketing Workshop Business BeforeFebruary Hours 14 Tuesday, at Milton Marketing Martin Toyota Trends 7:30Presented - 9:00 a.m.

by Gordon Sawyer New showroom in Oakwood 8:00 - 10:00 a.m.

– The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy

Thursday, December 10 After Hours Eggs &Business Issues Breakfast Thursday, 7:30 - 9:30 am February 16 5:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Gainesville Civic Center Luna's Restaurant Featuring Lt. Governor Casey Cagle 200 Main Street and Legislative Delegation!

Huntour Tower in Downtown Gainesville Open to the Public!

Tuesday, December 15 Arbor Day Celebration South Hall Business Friday, February 17 Coalition 10:00 a.m.

South Frances Hall Non-Profit Panel Meadows Center 8:00 - 9:00 a.m.

Safe Springs & GreenLibrary Regional Assembly Spout in Flowery Branch Friday, February 24 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Georgia Mountains Tuesday, January 26 Center

Small Business Workshop Annual Transportation Forum 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Wednesday, March 14 Brenau University Gainesville 11:30 a.m. in - 1:00 p.m.

JacobsGainesville Building / State GreenCollege Street

325 WASHINGTON STREET • GAINESVILLE, GA 770.536.1100 • www.pe achstate bank .com

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

Thursday, February 4 Job Fair and Career Expo Buy Local Expo / Safe & Green Wednesday, March 28 Expo: 2:00 – 7:00 p.m.

10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Business After Mountains Hours: 5- 7:00 p.m.

Georgia Center Gainesville Civic Center

CAR-RT SORT

Get Details & Register Online:

greaterhallchamber.com

Details & Register Online greaterhallchamber.com This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.