biz link april 2, 2013

B u s i n e s s L i n kChairman's Columnpage 2

Newly Elected Officerspage 4

Small Business of the Monthpage 5

Upcoming Eventspage 6

Member Announcementspage 10

New Memberspage 13

Leadership Programspage 14

VISION 2030page 15

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

A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Save the Date

A P R I L2 0 1 3

Wednesday, April 10Job Fair

Thursday, April 18Chamber Chase 5K

Friday, April 26Hackers Holiday Golf

FREE ADMISSION! OPEN TO PUBLIC!

Job FairWednesday, April 10

Gainesville Civic Center – 10 am - 3 pm

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Over 500 people are registered for the 6th Annual Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on Thursday, April 18 at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. A crowd of over 2,000 is expected to participate in the community-wide wellness event! Registration is available online through April 12 at ChamberChase5K.com. Registration at the Chamber office, open through April 17. Complete details on the event including race courses and frequently asked questions are also available online. The Chamber Chase is more than a run/walk with activities including Fastest CEO, Fastest Team, Best T-Shirt Contest, great giveaways and Hall County's Largest Office Party with music, food, awards, and recognition following the race! The Chamber Chase, formerly Get Fit Stay Fit, is a program of VISION 2030. Call 770-532-6206 or Register Online at ChamberChase5K.com

Chamber Chase 5K is April 18

Thursday, April 18 • 6:00 pmRiverside Military Academy

The Chamber's 34th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament is Friday, April 26 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Cost is $150 per player; $600 team (4-some). The tournament's title sponsor is Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia, and play begins with a shotgun start at 10 a.m. Entry Fee includes green fee, cart, breakfast, box lunch, snacks and drinks. Awards will be presented in three flights, along with Hole-In-One prize, closest to the pin, longest drive, a putting contest and much more. The

19th Hole Reception, sponsored by AT&T, with delicious free food and drink follows the tournament at the clubhouse.

WIN $1,000 CASH!A Golf Ball Drop Raffle will take place at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club to kick off Hackers Holiday on Friday, April 26. A helicopter will drop a numbered ball for each ticket sold! Closest to hole wins! $10 per ticket or 3 tickets for $20. Do not have to be present to win. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Register for the tournament and the raffle online: greaterhallchamber.com

34th Annual Hackers Holiday

Presented by

See List of

Employers

on Page 5!

Race Date: April 18Run: 6:00 p.mWalk: 6:10 p.m.

Register Online: ChamberChase5k.com

Online Registration Ends:April 12th

Details: 770-532-6206

No other organization provides networking opportunities like the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. We specialize in helping mem-bers make strong connections and build valuable relationships.

You can choose your favorite style of networking, and we’ve got an event that will fit the bill – fast or easygoing, casual or elegant, morn-ing, noon or night, in town or on the Lake. The Chamber has put together a diverse menu of networking options for you to choose from.

Job Fair on April 10 from 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center. Some 50 employers will be participating and networking with prospective employees. (See exhibitors on page 5.)

Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on April 18 at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy. Join the 2,000 runners and walkers for this fun community-wide corporate wellness initiative.

Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament on April 26 at 10 a.m. at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Join hack-ers and scratch golfers, play as an individual or sign up a team for the 34th Annual Tournament.

Annual Meeting & Gala on May 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club. We will cel-ebrate the successes of the year and recognize outstanding volunteers and businesses.

In addition, to our ongoing business and professional development programs, the Chamber offers special programs tailored to meet the needs of small and growing businesses. Every Chamber com-mittee meeting and member encounter provides an opportunity to meet new people that can help grow your business. And, we offer several ongoing programs designed to deliver focused, intentional networking: Small Business Success Seminars (April 9); Network Over Coffee (April 10 and April 24); South Hall Business Coalition (April 30); and Lunch 'n Learn (April 17).

Small business represents the heart of our organization and the local economy. With 85% of the Chamber's membership comprised of small businesses, the Greater Hall Chamber is dedicated to providing the events, programs and services that benefit our members. If you are a member, take part in one or more of these great networking opportunities.

If you are not a Chamber member, join now and reap the benefits. Your membership in the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is an investment in the future of your business. Visit the Chamber on-line to join, for specific information, or to RSVP for an event at greaterhallchamber.com

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Volume 19 Issue 4mcKemie West, editor • email: [email protected]

greaterhallchamber.com

emily Bagwell, Gainesville Redevelopment Auth.

William Bagwell, Jr., Homestead Investments

Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System

stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Danny Dunagan, Mayor City of Gainesville

Dr. merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools

sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton

lance Gardner, Georgia Power

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising

mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation

Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Dick mecum, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission

mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Dr. Randy Pierce, University of North Georgia

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

spence Price, The Adams Companies

Will schofield, Hall County Schools

Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University

Joyce stephens, United Community Bank

Dennis stockton, The Times

Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort

milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

melissa Tymchuk, NEGA Health System

Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College

Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Total Health Care

Davis White, Full Media

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials

Bob Willis, Willis Investment Counsel

Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo

John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates

Burton Brown, Woodmen of the World

Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance

Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith

Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County

Brian Hollis, Hollis Transport Agency

lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage

megan martin, American Security Shredding

Charles White, Community Volunteer

emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota

B u s i n e s s L i n k

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012-2013 executive Committee

ChairmanRandall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost

Chairman ElectDixie TrueloveTruelove Dairy

TreasurerJody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia

Vice Chair, Economic DevelopmentChris BraswellPB Property Management

Vice Chair, Education elisabeth Baldwin Raymond James/Morgan Keegan

Vice Chair, Government AffairsDavid lee, Jackson EMC

Vice Chair, Marketing and CommunicationsJullie King, The Longstreet Clinic

Vice Chair, Membership DevelopmentJimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Vice Chair, South Hall CouncilBrian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management

Vice Chair, Community DevelopmentDeborah mack, Volunteer

Chair, VISION 2030Carl Romberg, Citiscomeg Nivens, Executive Director

Co-Chairs, HALLmarkDavid Abee, Regions BankPerry Barnett, Rushton & Co.Paul Chambers, AT&T

Senior AdvisorPhilip Wilheit, sr., Wilheit Packaging

Immediate Past ChairmanJay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corp. President & CEOKit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2012-2013

Associate Directors 2012-2013

staffExecutiveKit Dunlap, President/CEOJoy sims, Executive Assistant

Economic DevelopmentTim evans, Vice Presidentshelley Davis, Vice President Existing IndustryJean mcCullough, Project Manager

Finance & OperationsDavid umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources

EducationDana miller, Vice President

Government AffairsKit Dunlap, President/CEOJoy sims, Executive Assistant

South Hall CouncilKit Dunlap, President/CEO

Community DevelopmentRobin Halstead, Vice President

VISION 2030meg Nivens, Executive Director

Membership Developmentmegan martin, Vice PresidentKara Tate, Membership Coordinator

Marketing & CommunicationsKemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant

Greater Hall Chamber Welcome CenterRobin Halstead, Manager

Chamber Networking Opportunities

Randall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost2012-2013 Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Annual Meeting & Gala is May 9Mark your calendar and plan to attend the Chamber's 105th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 9 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with an outdoor reception The dinner program begins at 7:00 p.m. with an overview of the year's success and annual award presentations including the 2012-2013 Small Business of the Year, Family Business of the Year, Silver Shovel Awards, and the prestigious W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award. Sponsorships Available! Megan Martin, 770-532-6206.

No other organization provides networking opportunities like the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. We specialize in helping mem-bers make strong connections and build valuable relationships.

You can choose your favorite style of networking, and we’ve got an event that will fit the bill – fast or easygoing, casual or elegant, morn-ing, noon or night, in town or on the Lake. The Chamber has put together a diverse menu of networking options for you to choose from.

Job Fair on April 10 from 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center. Some 50 employers will be participating and networking with prospective employees. (See exhibitors on page 5.)

Chamber Chase 5K & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on April 18 at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy. Join the 2,000 runners and walkers for this fun community-wide corporate wellness initiative.

Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament on April 26 at 10 a.m. at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Join hack-ers and scratch golfers, play as an individual or sign up a team for the 34th Annual Tournament.

Annual Meeting & Gala on May 9 at 6:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club. We will cel-ebrate the successes of the year and recognize outstanding volunteers and businesses.

In addition, to our ongoing business and professional development programs, the Chamber offers special programs tailored to meet the needs of small and growing businesses. Every Chamber com-mittee meeting and member encounter provides an opportunity to meet new people that can help grow your business. And, we offer several ongoing programs designed to deliver focused, intentional networking: Small Business Success Seminars (April 9); Network Over Coffee (April 10 and April 24); South Hall Business Coalition (April 30); and Lunch 'n Learn (April 17).

Small business represents the heart of our organization and the local economy. With 85% of the Chamber's membership comprised of small businesses, the Greater Hall Chamber is dedicated to providing the events, programs and services that benefit our members. If you are a member, take part in one or more of these great networking opportunities.

If you are not a Chamber member, join now and reap the benefits. Your membership in the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is an investment in the future of your business. Visit the Chamber on-line to join, for specific information, or to RSVP for an event at greaterhallchamber.com

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Volume 19 Issue 4mcKemie West, editor • email: [email protected]

greaterhallchamber.com

emily Bagwell, Gainesville Redevelopment Auth.

William Bagwell, Jr., Homestead Investments

Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness

Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy

William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center

Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System

stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB

Danny Dunagan, Mayor City of Gainesville

Dr. merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools

sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman

Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda

Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty

Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton

lance Gardner, Georgia Power

Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons

John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising

mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation

Dr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North Georgia

Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy

Dick mecum, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission

mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch

Dr. Randy Pierce, University of North Georgia

James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont

Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design

larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville

spence Price, The Adams Companies

Will schofield, Hall County Schools

Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University

Joyce stephens, United Community Bank

Dennis stockton, The Times

Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort

milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula

melissa Tymchuk, NEGA Health System

Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College

Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Total Health Care

Davis White, Full Media

Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods

Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials

Bob Willis, Willis Investment Counsel

Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo

John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates

Burton Brown, Woodmen of the World

Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance

Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith

Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County

Brian Hollis, Hollis Transport Agency

lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage

megan martin, American Security Shredding

Charles White, Community Volunteer

emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota

B u s i n e s s L i n k

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012-2013 executive Committee

ChairmanRandall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost

Chairman ElectDixie TrueloveTruelove Dairy

TreasurerJody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia

Vice Chair, Economic DevelopmentChris BraswellPB Property Management

Vice Chair, Education elisabeth Baldwin Raymond James/Morgan Keegan

Vice Chair, Government AffairsDavid lee, Jackson EMC

Vice Chair, Marketing and CommunicationsJullie King, The Longstreet Clinic

Vice Chair, Membership DevelopmentJimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Vice Chair, South Hall CouncilBrian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management

Vice Chair, Community DevelopmentDeborah mack, Volunteer

Chair, VISION 2030Carl Romberg, Citiscomeg Nivens, Executive Director

Co-Chairs, HALLmarkDavid Abee, Regions BankPerry Barnett, Rushton & Co.Paul Chambers, AT&T

Senior AdvisorPhilip Wilheit, sr., Wilheit Packaging

Immediate Past ChairmanJay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corp. President & CEOKit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2012-2013

Associate Directors 2012-2013

staffExecutiveKit Dunlap, President/CEOJoy sims, Executive Assistant

Economic DevelopmentTim evans, Vice Presidentshelley Davis, Vice President Existing IndustryJean mcCullough, Project Manager

Finance & OperationsDavid umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources

EducationDana miller, Vice President

Government AffairsKit Dunlap, President/CEOJoy sims, Executive Assistant

South Hall CouncilKit Dunlap, President/CEO

Community DevelopmentRobin Halstead, Vice President

VISION 2030meg Nivens, Executive Director

Membership Developmentmegan martin, Vice PresidentKara Tate, Membership Coordinator

Marketing & CommunicationsKemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant

Greater Hall Chamber Welcome CenterRobin Halstead, Manager

Chamber Networking Opportunities

Randall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost2012-2013 Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Annual Meeting & Gala is May 9Mark your calendar and plan to attend the Chamber's 105th Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 9 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with an outdoor reception The dinner program begins at 7:00 p.m. with an overview of the year's success and annual award presentations including the 2012-2013 Small Business of the Year, Family Business of the Year, Silver Shovel Awards, and the prestigious W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award. Sponsorships Available! Megan Martin, 770-532-6206.

POWER TO INNOVATE

At Jackson EMC, we pride ourselves not only on what we provide our members, but how we

provide it. Power is our business, but satisfied customers are our objective. Every day, our more

than 400 employees work to achieve the perfect balance between advanced technology and

personal service in order to help our customers and to improve the communities we serve.

Give us a call. We’d like to show you how we can help your team succeed.

706-367-5281 / jacksonemc.com

CO M M E RC I A L / I N D U ST R I A L D I V I S I O N

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JEMC_C&I_innovate_BizLink_Layout 1 6/20/12 5:05 PM Page 1

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The Chamber is seeking nominations for both the 2012-2013 Small Business of the Year and the Family Business of the Year. The small business award is presented to an outstanding small business and Greater Hall Chamber member with 50 or less employees. The Family Business of the Year is awarded to a family-owned business that has operated for 25 or more years. Highland Mountain Beverage received the 2011-2012 Small Business of the Year Award, and J & J Foods was recognized as last year's Family Business of the Year. A member may nominate their business or another member. All nominations must be received by Friday, April 19.

Award winners will be recognized at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 9 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. Along with the presentation of business awards, the event will include an outdoor reception and an elegant dinner buffet. Other awards to be presented are the Community Service Award, the prestigious W.G. Mealor Award and Silver Shovel Awards. Nomination forms or details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Nominations and reservations online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business Awards Nominations

Newly Elected Chamber OfficersThe Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting an aggres-sive business environment and making a positive contribution to the community. Founded in 1908, the Chamber is a voice for business in Gainesville-Hall County and the Northeast Georgia region and offers a full range of services for its members. The following individuals were elected to serve as officers of the Greater Hall Cham-ber of Commerce for 2013-2014, beginning July 1, 2013:

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Officers 2013-2014:

Chairman: Dixie Truelove, Truelove DairyChairman Elect: David Lee, Jackson EMCTreasurer: Jody Lail, Chattahoochee Bank of GeorgiaVice Chair Education: Andi Farmer, Milton Martin HondaVice Chair Economic Development: Chris Braswell, PB Property ManagementVice Chair Community Development: Deborah Mack, Community VolunteerVice Chair Government Affairs: William Bagwell, Homestead InvestmentsVice Chair Marketing/Communications: Jullie King, The Longstreet ClinicVice Chair Membership: Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design CenterVice Chair South Hall Council: Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth ManagementCo-Chairs HALLmark: David Abee, Regions Bank; Paul Chambers, AT&T; Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith InsuranceChair VISION 2030: Carl Romberg, CitiscoExecutive Director, VISION 2030: Meg Nivens, Greater Hall ChamberSenior Advisor: Denise Deal, Southern Magnolia CapitalImmediate Past President: Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & FrostGreater Hall Chamber President & CEO: Kit Dunlap

The following individuals were recently elected to serve as Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors for a three-year term, July 1, 2013 and ending June 30, 2016:

Newly Elected Board of Directors:

Phil Bonelli, Wells FargoJohn Breakfield, Breakfield & AssociatesWill Hicks, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Inc.Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications & Electronics, Inc.Steve McNeilly, Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.Greg Ours, Poly EnterprisesBrad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Corp.

Annual Transportation Forum

Over 250 people gathered for the Chamber's March 13th Transportation Forum with updates and discussion by the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Planning Organization. (L-R): Brian Rochester, Executive VP, Rochester & Associates; Tim Evans, VP Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber; Dr. Bonita Jacobs, President, University of North Georgia; Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer; Nicole Spivey, Gainesville-Hall County MPO; Dr. Al Panu, University of North Georgia, Gainesville Campus; Emily Dunn, 9th District GDOT Board Member; Keith Golden, Commissioner GDOT; Terry Evans, President & CEO, Independence Bank of Georgia. Thank you sponsors: Independence Bank of Georgia (title sponsor), Rochester & Associates (title sponsor), Coca-Cola of Gainesville, University of North Georgia, McDonald's, The Times and Access North Georgia.

Family Business of the Year – Small Business of the Year

The Chamber's Small Business Success Seminars program and the South Hall Business Coalition hosted a Small Business Workshop in March. (L-R): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Greater Hall Chamber; Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Jeff Smith, ActionCOACH Atlanta; Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage. The program was led by Jeff Smith, founder of ActionCOACH Atlanta, who discussed business sales, marketing, finance, human resources and legal expertise for bottom line results. The next Small Business Success Seminar is Tuesday, April 9 from 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at the Chamber. Connie Hagler, President of CMIT Solutions of Lanier, will discuss the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) phenomenon and how it has been both a boon and bane for businesses. Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. The South Hall Business Coalition will meet on Tuesday, April 30 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at Antebellum Restaurant in Flowery Branch. Bill Andrew, City Manager of Flowery Branch, will present an update on the city. Reservations: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected].

Small Business Workshop

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The Chamber is seeking nominations for both the 2012-2013 Small Business of the Year and the Family Business of the Year. The small business award is presented to an outstanding small business and Greater Hall Chamber member with 50 or less employees. The Family Business of the Year is awarded to a family-owned business that has operated for 25 or more years. Highland Mountain Beverage received the 2011-2012 Small Business of the Year Award, and J & J Foods was recognized as last year's Family Business of the Year. A member may nominate their business or another member. All nominations must be received by Friday, April 19.

Award winners will be recognized at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 9 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. Along with the presentation of business awards, the event will include an outdoor reception and an elegant dinner buffet. Other awards to be presented are the Community Service Award, the prestigious W.G. Mealor Award and Silver Shovel Awards. Nomination forms or details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Nominations and reservations online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business Awards Nominations

Newly Elected Chamber OfficersThe Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to supporting an aggres-sive business environment and making a positive contribution to the community. Founded in 1908, the Chamber is a voice for business in Gainesville-Hall County and the Northeast Georgia region and offers a full range of services for its members. The following individuals were elected to serve as officers of the Greater Hall Cham-ber of Commerce for 2013-2014, beginning July 1, 2013:

Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Officers 2013-2014:

Chairman: Dixie Truelove, Truelove DairyChairman Elect: David Lee, Jackson EMCTreasurer: Jody Lail, Chattahoochee Bank of GeorgiaVice Chair Education: Andi Farmer, Milton Martin HondaVice Chair Economic Development: Chris Braswell, PB Property ManagementVice Chair Community Development: Deborah Mack, Community VolunteerVice Chair Government Affairs: William Bagwell, Homestead InvestmentsVice Chair Marketing/Communications: Jullie King, The Longstreet ClinicVice Chair Membership: Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design CenterVice Chair South Hall Council: Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth ManagementCo-Chairs HALLmark: David Abee, Regions Bank; Paul Chambers, AT&T; Jimbo Floyd, Turner, Wood & Smith InsuranceChair VISION 2030: Carl Romberg, CitiscoExecutive Director, VISION 2030: Meg Nivens, Greater Hall ChamberSenior Advisor: Denise Deal, Southern Magnolia CapitalImmediate Past President: Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & FrostGreater Hall Chamber President & CEO: Kit Dunlap

The following individuals were recently elected to serve as Greater Hall Chamber Board of Directors for a three-year term, July 1, 2013 and ending June 30, 2016:

Newly Elected Board of Directors:

Phil Bonelli, Wells FargoJohn Breakfield, Breakfield & AssociatesWill Hicks, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Inc.Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications & Electronics, Inc.Steve McNeilly, Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.Greg Ours, Poly EnterprisesBrad Puryear, Mansfield Energy Corp.

Annual Transportation Forum

Over 250 people gathered for the Chamber's March 13th Transportation Forum with updates and discussion by the Georgia Department of Transportation and the Gainesville-Hall County Metropolitan Planning Organization. (L-R): Brian Rochester, Executive VP, Rochester & Associates; Tim Evans, VP Economic Development, Greater Hall Chamber; Dr. Bonita Jacobs, President, University of North Georgia; Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer; Nicole Spivey, Gainesville-Hall County MPO; Dr. Al Panu, University of North Georgia, Gainesville Campus; Emily Dunn, 9th District GDOT Board Member; Keith Golden, Commissioner GDOT; Terry Evans, President & CEO, Independence Bank of Georgia. Thank you sponsors: Independence Bank of Georgia (title sponsor), Rochester & Associates (title sponsor), Coca-Cola of Gainesville, University of North Georgia, McDonald's, The Times and Access North Georgia.

Family Business of the Year – Small Business of the Year

The Chamber's Small Business Success Seminars program and the South Hall Business Coalition hosted a Small Business Workshop in March. (L-R): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Greater Hall Chamber; Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Jeff Smith, ActionCOACH Atlanta; Lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage. The program was led by Jeff Smith, founder of ActionCOACH Atlanta, who discussed business sales, marketing, finance, human resources and legal expertise for bottom line results. The next Small Business Success Seminar is Tuesday, April 9 from 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at the Chamber. Connie Hagler, President of CMIT Solutions of Lanier, will discuss the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) phenomenon and how it has been both a boon and bane for businesses. Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. The South Hall Business Coalition will meet on Tuesday, April 30 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at Antebellum Restaurant in Flowery Branch. Bill Andrew, City Manager of Flowery Branch, will present an update on the city. Reservations: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected].

Small Business Workshop

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April 2, 2013 • A

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The Job Fair on Wednesday, April 10 offers opportunities for both employers and job seekers. Hundreds will gather for face-to-face time with hiring managers and the chance to complete onsite job applications. The event is free and open to the public from 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center (new venue this year). Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]

Job Fair with Employer Exhibits

Kirk and Leah Watkins founded North Georgia Canopy Tours in 2010. The facilities, located on 136 acres in Lula, include a championship quality disc golf course and seven uniquely designed, furnished, and air conditioned teepees named for each of the seven Cherokee tribes. Kirk manages marketing and has built the largest Facebook following in the canopy tour industry with some 25,000 fans. Leah manages operations, training, staff, merchandise and course maintenance. Kirk is a partner with the law firm Womble Carlyle Sandridge & Rice in Atlanta, focusing on patent and property litigation, international arbitration, and business litigation. Leah is a healthcare regulatory specialist in Atlanta focusing on changes for healthcare providers and monitoring the activities of certificate of need throughout the state. Course manager is Jonathan Marziliano who has extensive experience in leading, guiding, facilitating, and training individuals on the courses. He is a certified wilderness first responder, wild land firefighter red card holder, and a CPR trainer. Lindsay Graham is assistant course manager and uses her degree in recreation and leisure to the company's advantage. Michelle Ferguson is office manager keeping track of merchandise and general office detail. northgeorgiacanopytours.com

Small Business of the MonthNorth Georgia Canopy Tours

Kit Dunlap (left) with Leah and Kirk Watkins of North Georgia Canopy Tours.

Ace Hardware CorporationAerocom SystemsAltair Advanced IndustriesAmerigroupAssociated Beach & CoulsonATEXAtlanta Attachment CompanyAtlanta General Education Center / DuluthAxiom Staffing Group (Silver Sponsor)Brenau UniversityCargillCarter’sClipper PetroleumETCON Employment SolutionsExpress Employment Pros (Platinum Sponsor) Gainesville Area Employer CommitteeGeorgia Department of LaborGeorgia Mountains Regional CommissionGoodwill of Northeast GeorgiaGreater Hall Chamber of CommerceHall County Sheriff's DepartmentHappy Faces Family of CompaniesHireDynamics

Human TechnologiesIMS Gear (Gold Sponsor ) Kelly ServicesKIK Corp.Kubota Manufacturing of America Corp.Lanier Technical College (Event Sponsor)McDonald's (Event Sponsor)The Legacy LinkLIFESouth Community Blood CentersMansfield Oil Company of GainesvilleMcDonald's (Event Sponsor)Modern Woodmen of America (Title Sponsor)New Leaf Landscape ServicesNortheast Georgia Health SystemPrimerica Financial ServicesRefrigerated WarehousingSinkotech USASpherion Professional StaffingTiger DirectTRC StaffingTrident UniversityWoodmen of the WorldZF Group (Bronze Sponsor)

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CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com

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Wednesday, April 3Healthcare Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Friday, April 5Economic Development Council7:30 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, April 9Small Business Success SeminarCould Mobile Services Threaten the Future of Your Business? Presented by Connie Hagler, President, CMIT Solutions of Lanier7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, April 9Youth Leadership Hall 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 9Ambassador Council3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Cafe

Wednesday, April 10Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Coffee Shop at Lawrence Pharmacy631 Broad Street in Gainesville

Wednesday, April 10Annual Job Fair10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Gainesville Civic Center (new venue)

Thursday, April 11Leadership Hall County 8:00 a.m .- 5:00 p.m.

Tuesday, April 16VISION 2030 Board of Directors11:30 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, April 17Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, April 17Lunch 'n Learn11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Recess Southern Gastro Pub

Thursday, April 18Chamber Executive Board11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber

Thursday, April 18Chamber Chase 5K2 Mile Wellness Walk6:00 p.m. - Run6:10 p.m. - WalkRiverside Military Academy

Wednesday, April 24Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. BabyCakes Mini Cupcake Bakery3575 McEver Road in Gainesville

Thursday, April 25Chamber Board of Directors12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

Friday, April 26Hacker's Holiday Golf Tournament10:00 a.m. Shotgun StartLegacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Tuesday, April 30South Hall Business CoalitionUpdate: City of Flowery Branch Presented by Bill Andrew, City Manager8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Antebellum Restaurant, 5510 Church Street in Flowery Branch

MAY 2013

Thursday, May 9105th Annual Meeting & Gala6:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception7:00 p.m. Dinner ProgramChattahoochee Country Club

Friday, May 17New Member Breakfast8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Location to be determined

Monday, May 20Business After Hours5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.Lake Lanier Islands ResortCo-Sponsored by Lake Lanier Association and Lake Lanier Islands Resort

Get details and register for these and other Chamber events online:greaterhallchamber.com

Small Business Success SeminarTuesday, April 97:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at ChamberFree for Chamber Members • $15 Non-Members

Could Mobile Services Threaten the Future of Your Business?Connie Hagler, President of CMIT Solutions of Lanier, a franchise that specializes in managed IT services for small and medium sized businesses, will discuss the Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) phenomenon and how it has been both a boon and bane for businesses. Reservations, Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Thursday, May 96:00 p.m. Outdoor Reception7:00 p.m. Dinner ProgramChattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville$75 per person; $125 Couple; $1,200 Table Sponsorship (seats 10)

The Greater Hall Chamber Annual Meeting & Gala includes an outdoor cocktail party, an elegant buffet dinner, music and dancing. Annual Business Awards will be presented including the 2012-2013 Family of the Year and Small Business of the Year, W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award, and Silver Shovel Award Winners. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Reservations online: greaterhallchamber.com

105th Annual Meeting & Gala

Tuesday, April 308:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Antebellum Restaurant5510 Church Street in Flowery Branch$5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members; Light Breakfast

Update: City of Flowery BranchCome hear an update by Bill Andrew, City Manager of Flowery Branch. Great network-ing with light breakfast at Antebellum. antebellumrestaurant.com Reservations required. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. greaterhallchamber.com

South Hall Business Coalition

Annual Job FairWednesday, April 1010:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Gainesville Civic CenterNo Admission Fee • Open to the Public

Great opportunity for both employers and job seekers. FREE and open to the public. Employers will meet hundreds of job candidates face-to-face during a short period of time. Title sponsor is Modern Woodmen of America. Additional sponsors: Express Employment Pros (Platinum), IMS Gear (Gold), Axiom Staffing Group (Silver), ZF Group (Bronze), McDonald's, Lanier Technical College, Gainesville Area Employers, WDUN and The Times. Details: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]

Employer Booths Still Available!

Piedmont Tractor & Equipment offers:* Complete line of construction equipment by New Holland & Yanmar* Agriculture Tractors in stock by LS Tractors and Yanmar* Zero Turn Mowers in stock by Gravely, Dixie Chopper and Husqvarna* Tillers, Generators, Pressure Washers, Chainsaws, Backpack Blowers and Weed Eaters* All service work performed on site and same day service available to get you up and running.* Fully stocked parts inventory catering to the farmers, home owners and construction industry* Zero Percent Financing on all equipment sold and trades welcomed!

I personally invite you to come and visit our dealership and see our new expansive showroom! We offer complete satisfaction after the sell and our prices can’t be beat! Brian Hollis - General Manager

1780 MLK Jr. Blvd SE Gainesville, Ga 30501

770.534.5000Open Monday - Saturday 8am - 5pm

www.piedmonttractor.com

Come see our new complete line of Blue LS Tractors!

Stop in and see the latest in Tractors from LS Tractors.

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• Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® according to Truven Health Analytics, one of only 20 “Large Com-munity Hospitals” and the only hospital in Georgia to make the list. NGMC was also named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2013 by Healthgrades®. nghs.com• Jazzercise Gainesville (John Morrow Parkway) and Jazzercise Braselton (Spout Springs) Owner Colleen Manji received the President's Club Platinum Award as a top money earner in Jazzercise franchises, ranking in the top 3% of all franchisees last year. jazzercise.com• Hall County's Hawgin' On Lanier is May 17- 18 at Laurel Park. A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band will perform Friday, May 17 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 for a lawn seat; $300 table, includes BBQ plates. Proceeds benefit the Hall County Animal Shelter. Arrive by boat! 770-297-5504. For tickets: Email: [email protected]• 9th Annual Spring Chicken Festival in Downtown Gainesville is Saturday, April 27, 10am – 4pm. Festivities include a 5K Race, Chicken City Parade, Cook-off, Re-Hatched Upcycled Art Market, Quilt Show and Kids Zone! Proceeds benefit Keep Hall Beautiful. 770-297-1141. gainesville.org• Check out the Chamber's NEW 2013 Gainesville-Hall County Video – Live, Work, Play... All in a Day! YouTube:http://youtu.be/PzXFKlmEvEs• Junior Achievement (JA) of Northeast Georgia presented Business Hall of Fame Awards to Tommy Bagwell, owner, Amer-ican Proteins; Jan Cooley, CEO, Proview Foods; and Bob Swoszowski, owner of 11 McDonald’s restaurants across the state. The award is given for involvement in eco-nomic and civic development of Northeast Georgia and the state. georgia.ja.org• The Northeast Georgia Council of the Boy Scouts of America honored Chamber Chairman Randall Frost with a Ralph Cleveland Distinguished Citizen Award. Mary Lynn Coyle, Chair, Northeast Geor-gia Health System, and Elton Maddox, CEO, Wayne Farms, were also recipients. A former Eagle Scout, Frost is the manag-ing partner of Stewart, Melvin & Frost and has practiced law since 1971. He has served many community organizations and was also recently awarded DAR's Com-munity Service Award. • The Northeast Georgia Heart Center was awarded a three-year Recognition Award by the American Heart/Stroke As-sociation for providing quality care to their patients with cardiovascular disease or who have had a stroke. ngheartcenter.com• Hall County Library System is hosting a Family Safety Series with presentations on safety precautions. April 13 at 9:15 am - Hall County EMA Search & Rescue; April

29 at 6:00 pm - Hall County Fire Services; May 13 at 6:00 pm - Alzheimer’s Associa-tion. No charge. Gainesville Branch, 127 Main Street. hallcountylibrary.org• Deborah Mack was honored by the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia as the 2013 Woman of Distinction, recognized for her involvement on the boards of many com-munity agencies including the Hall County Board of Heath, Greater Hall Chamber and United Way. She is a founding member and past president of both WomenSource and Gateway Domestic Violence Center. • United Hospice Foundation's Pull! Skeet Shoot and Lunch is April 6 at Etowah Sporting Clay in Dawsonville. $65 per person includes 100 skeets, silent auction, giveaways, shooting prizes and food by Luna’s. Lindsay Payne, 706-280-0054. Email: [email protected]• Dr. Tom Smiley announces Lakewood Baptist Church's opening of its new, 14,000 square foot ministry center, allow-ing a new ministry for children and adults with special needs. The goal of the minis-try is to provide personal evangelism and fellowship through recreation and family activities. lakewoodlife.org• Gateway Domestic Violence Center's 7th Annual Gateway to Hope is Friday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club with a silent and live auc-tion, live music and great food. Proceeds will help fund Gateway's emergency shelter for battered women and their children. Tickets are $75. gatewaydvcenter.org• Hilton Garden Inn Gainesville is under new ownership and management by HP Hotel Management. Renovations are un-derway in the lobby/garden pavilion along with room updates and bathroom rede-signs. The hotel will be 100% non-smoking at completion by June 1. A liquor license has been issued and menu revisions are in the works for The American Grill & Bar. 1735 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. 770-532-3396. gainesvillega.hgi.com• The Longstreet Clinic announces the acquisition of Georgia Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery with offices in Du-luth and Dacula. Amy Borrow, MD, and Stephen Fisher, MD, of Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine at The Longstreet Clinic in Buford will take over the practice. georgiasportsmedicine.com• The Chamber's Beautification Committee is seeking nominations for the Residential Beautification Awards. Nominations may be made by friends, neighbors, business associates, etc. Nominations must be sub-mitted by Wednesday, May 1. For more information, call Robin Halstead at 770-532-6206 or email: [email protected]

GOT NEWS?Email: [email protected]

Chris Felix cuts ribbon at United Hospice, a provider of holistic care treating the physical, so-cial and spiritual being of patients approaching their final days. United Hospice furnishes comfort, care and sup-port, close, personal and spiritual peace, and self-respect for fullness of life for those with a life-limiting illness. With locations in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, United Hospice includes teams of professionals overseeing the care of the patient including the patient’s physician, registered nurses, medical social workers, chaplains and volunteers. United Hospice, Inc., 700 South Enota, Suite 202, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-1970. uhs-pruitt.com

United Hospice of Gainesville

Betty Wright and Advisory Board members Elleda Rule, Peggy Gracey and Mary Lowrey cut ribbon for the Northeast Georgia Chapter of Quilts for Kids, an organization of over 125 volunteers who sew “com-fort” quilts for children at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Gateway Domestic Violence Center and Family Promise of Hall County. Workshops are held at First Baptist Gainesville and Hopewell United Methodist Churches monthly or volunteers may sew the kits at their home. The chapter’s first anniversary was in March. The group has donated 258 quilts and 22 pil-lowcases during the first year. In addition to volunteers and supporters, fabric or finan-cial donations are needed for this project. To help, call 678-617-9671. QuiltsforKids.org

Quilts for Kids

Ann Nixon cuts ribbon at Habitat for Humanity of Hall County's ReSTORE, a Christian housing ministry and affiliate of Habitat for Hu-manity Internation-al. The organiza-tion promotes home ownership with the help of volunteers building houses for residents in need of adequate housing. The Habitat ReSTORE of-fers an alternative affordable source for home maintenance and improvement materials while preserving the environment by keeping these items out of the landfill. The Habitat ReSTORE seeks donations – doors, windows, cabinets, counter tops, sinks, toilets, work-ing appliances (less than 10 years old), furniture and household goods. Funds generated assist in building Habitat for Humanity homes for needy families in Hall County. 2285 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. 678-450-5998. habitathallcounty.org

Habitat for Humanity ReSTORE

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• Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is one of the nation’s 100 Top Hospitals® according to Truven Health Analytics, one of only 20 “Large Com-munity Hospitals” and the only hospital in Georgia to make the list. NGMC was also named one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals for 2013 by Healthgrades®. nghs.com• Jazzercise Gainesville (John Morrow Parkway) and Jazzercise Braselton (Spout Springs) Owner Colleen Manji received the President's Club Platinum Award as a top money earner in Jazzercise franchises, ranking in the top 3% of all franchisees last year. jazzercise.com• Hall County's Hawgin' On Lanier is May 17- 18 at Laurel Park. A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Band will perform Friday, May 17 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets: $15 for a lawn seat; $300 table, includes BBQ plates. Proceeds benefit the Hall County Animal Shelter. Arrive by boat! 770-297-5504. For tickets: Email: [email protected]• 9th Annual Spring Chicken Festival in Downtown Gainesville is Saturday, April 27, 10am – 4pm. Festivities include a 5K Race, Chicken City Parade, Cook-off, Re-Hatched Upcycled Art Market, Quilt Show and Kids Zone! Proceeds benefit Keep Hall Beautiful. 770-297-1141. gainesville.org• Check out the Chamber's NEW 2013 Gainesville-Hall County Video – Live, Work, Play... All in a Day! YouTube:http://youtu.be/PzXFKlmEvEs• Junior Achievement (JA) of Northeast Georgia presented Business Hall of Fame Awards to Tommy Bagwell, owner, Amer-ican Proteins; Jan Cooley, CEO, Proview Foods; and Bob Swoszowski, owner of 11 McDonald’s restaurants across the state. The award is given for involvement in eco-nomic and civic development of Northeast Georgia and the state. georgia.ja.org• The Northeast Georgia Council of the Boy Scouts of America honored Chamber Chairman Randall Frost with a Ralph Cleveland Distinguished Citizen Award. Mary Lynn Coyle, Chair, Northeast Geor-gia Health System, and Elton Maddox, CEO, Wayne Farms, were also recipients. A former Eagle Scout, Frost is the manag-ing partner of Stewart, Melvin & Frost and has practiced law since 1971. He has served many community organizations and was also recently awarded DAR's Com-munity Service Award. • The Northeast Georgia Heart Center was awarded a three-year Recognition Award by the American Heart/Stroke As-sociation for providing quality care to their patients with cardiovascular disease or who have had a stroke. ngheartcenter.com• Hall County Library System is hosting a Family Safety Series with presentations on safety precautions. April 13 at 9:15 am - Hall County EMA Search & Rescue; April

29 at 6:00 pm - Hall County Fire Services; May 13 at 6:00 pm - Alzheimer’s Associa-tion. No charge. Gainesville Branch, 127 Main Street. hallcountylibrary.org• Deborah Mack was honored by the Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia as the 2013 Woman of Distinction, recognized for her involvement on the boards of many com-munity agencies including the Hall County Board of Heath, Greater Hall Chamber and United Way. She is a founding member and past president of both WomenSource and Gateway Domestic Violence Center. • United Hospice Foundation's Pull! Skeet Shoot and Lunch is April 6 at Etowah Sporting Clay in Dawsonville. $65 per person includes 100 skeets, silent auction, giveaways, shooting prizes and food by Luna’s. Lindsay Payne, 706-280-0054. Email: [email protected]• Dr. Tom Smiley announces Lakewood Baptist Church's opening of its new, 14,000 square foot ministry center, allow-ing a new ministry for children and adults with special needs. The goal of the minis-try is to provide personal evangelism and fellowship through recreation and family activities. lakewoodlife.org• Gateway Domestic Violence Center's 7th Annual Gateway to Hope is Friday, April 12 at 7:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club with a silent and live auc-tion, live music and great food. Proceeds will help fund Gateway's emergency shelter for battered women and their children. Tickets are $75. gatewaydvcenter.org• Hilton Garden Inn Gainesville is under new ownership and management by HP Hotel Management. Renovations are un-derway in the lobby/garden pavilion along with room updates and bathroom rede-signs. The hotel will be 100% non-smoking at completion by June 1. A liquor license has been issued and menu revisions are in the works for The American Grill & Bar. 1735 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. 770-532-3396. gainesvillega.hgi.com• The Longstreet Clinic announces the acquisition of Georgia Sports Medicine & Orthopaedic Surgery with offices in Du-luth and Dacula. Amy Borrow, MD, and Stephen Fisher, MD, of Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine at The Longstreet Clinic in Buford will take over the practice. georgiasportsmedicine.com• The Chamber's Beautification Committee is seeking nominations for the Residential Beautification Awards. Nominations may be made by friends, neighbors, business associates, etc. Nominations must be sub-mitted by Wednesday, May 1. For more information, call Robin Halstead at 770-532-6206 or email: [email protected]

GOT NEWS?Email: [email protected]

Chris Felix cuts ribbon at United Hospice, a provider of holistic care treating the physical, so-cial and spiritual being of patients approaching their final days. United Hospice furnishes comfort, care and sup-port, close, personal and spiritual peace, and self-respect for fullness of life for those with a life-limiting illness. With locations in Georgia, North Carolina and South Carolina, United Hospice includes teams of professionals overseeing the care of the patient including the patient’s physician, registered nurses, medical social workers, chaplains and volunteers. United Hospice, Inc., 700 South Enota, Suite 202, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-1970. uhs-pruitt.com

United Hospice of Gainesville

Betty Wright and Advisory Board members Elleda Rule, Peggy Gracey and Mary Lowrey cut ribbon for the Northeast Georgia Chapter of Quilts for Kids, an organization of over 125 volunteers who sew “com-fort” quilts for children at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, Gateway Domestic Violence Center and Family Promise of Hall County. Workshops are held at First Baptist Gainesville and Hopewell United Methodist Churches monthly or volunteers may sew the kits at their home. The chapter’s first anniversary was in March. The group has donated 258 quilts and 22 pil-lowcases during the first year. In addition to volunteers and supporters, fabric or finan-cial donations are needed for this project. To help, call 678-617-9671. QuiltsforKids.org

Quilts for Kids

Ann Nixon cuts ribbon at Habitat for Humanity of Hall County's ReSTORE, a Christian housing ministry and affiliate of Habitat for Hu-manity Internation-al. The organiza-tion promotes home ownership with the help of volunteers building houses for residents in need of adequate housing. The Habitat ReSTORE of-fers an alternative affordable source for home maintenance and improvement materials while preserving the environment by keeping these items out of the landfill. The Habitat ReSTORE seeks donations – doors, windows, cabinets, counter tops, sinks, toilets, work-ing appliances (less than 10 years old), furniture and household goods. Funds generated assist in building Habitat for Humanity homes for needy families in Hall County. 2285 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. 678-450-5998. habitathallcounty.org

Habitat for Humanity ReSTORE

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April 2, 2013 • A


ent to The Times

Some 2,000 are expected to participate in the Chamber Chase 5K Run and 2 Mile Wellness Walk on April 18. Register online at ChamberChase5k.com by April 12.

Thank You Chamber SponsorsAce HardwareAT&TBreakfield & AssociatesBrenau UniversityCharter BusinessChattahoochee Bank of GeorgiaChick-fil-A GainesvilleGAINCOGainesville Eye AssociatesGainesville Signs & GraphicsGeorgia Design & GraphicsHighland Mountain Beverage

Independence Bank of GeorgiaJ & J FoodsJackson EMC Jacobs Media CorporationLakeview AcademyMansfield EnergyMcDonald'sMedical MutualMilton Martin HondaMilton Martin ToyotaNEGA Diagnostic ClinicNEGA Georgia Health System

NEGA Physicians GroupNorth Georgia Canopy ToursRed Clay InteractiveRiverside Military AcademyThe Longstreet ClinicThe TimesWalgreensWallace Sheet MetalWayne FarmsWDUN RadioWells FargoXPO Logistics

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CHAMBER CHASEApril 18

Riverside Military Academy5K Run at 6:00 p.m.

2 Mile Wellness Walk at 6:10 p.m.

Register by April 12 at ChamberChase5K.com

Thank You Training Sponsors: Family Life Center • Frances Meadows Center Fitness Forum • YMCA • Hall County Parks & Leisure • Jazzercise • Spa on Green Street

Presenting Sponsor


539 Green Street NWGainesville, GA 30501

GainesvilleGaLawyer.com770-783-5296

John G. BreakfieldPlaintiff’s Personal Injury,

Criminal Defense,Business Litigation,

and Eminent Domain

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Conditioned Air Systems Team (L-R): Matt Magnus, Doug and Diane Magnus, Brooke M. Kalinauskas, Baya M. Pruitt, Matt Pruitt and Andy Kalinauskas. Many thanks to Conditioned Air for hosting the March Business After Hours and the celebration of their 30th Anniversary. Don't miss Business After Hours on Monday, May 20 (note day) from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at Harbor Landing at Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Join us as we sail around the lake and network with other business professionals. Co-sponsored by Lake Lanier Association and Lake Lanier Islands Resort. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206.

Business After HoursMegan Martin, a Hall County native and graduate of Flowery Branch High School joined the Chamber staff last month as Vice President of Membership Development. Megan is a Clemson University graduate and has been in the paper shredding and sensitive materials destruction industry for over five years, most recently serving as the Di-rector of Sales and Marketing at American Security Shred-ding, Inc. Megan’s Chamber volunteer activities include serving on the Hackers Holiday Committee, Ambassador Council, and as an Associate Director. She was named Ambassador of the Year in both 2010 and 2011 and was a recipient of the Silver Shovel Award in 2011. She is a Leadership Hall County graduate and serves as Chairman of the Lanier Charter Career Academy Governing Board and as Volunteer Coordinator for the Northeast Georgia

Medical Center Foundation's Golf Tournament. Megan and her husband, Nick, reside in Hall County and are members at Hopewell Baptist Church.

Megan Martin Joins Chamber Staff

Megan MartinVice President, Membership Development, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce


Economic Development Project Manager. Research and prepare for prospect businesses. Manage Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council events and meetings. Coordinate prospect visits. Marketing and commercial real estate backgrounds helpful. Degree required. Resumes to Greater Hall Chamber, Human Resources Manager, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville, GA 30503.

Position Opening at Chamber

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April 2, 2013 • A


ent to The Times

ADPAlfiya Tarasenko 5680 New Northside DriveAtlanta, GA 30528 (404) 918-3588 - Payroll Servicesadp.com

Beth Truelove 2608 Little River ParkGainesville, GA 30506 (770) 534-1173 - Individual Member

Contemporary Culinary Concepts, LLC Christopher Harwell 1546 Riverside DriveGainesville, GA 30501 (678) 316-7775 - Catering contemporaryculinarycon-cepts.com

Gallery on the SquarePatti Russell 118 Main Street SWSuite 4Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 893-9880 - Art Gallery gallerysq.com

Hulsey, Oliver & MaharAbbott Hayes, Jr.Thomas Fitzgerald200 EE Butler ParkwayGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-6312 - Attorneys homlaw.com McEver Road Self Storage John Stoecker 5140 McEver RoadOakwood, GA 30566 (770) 534-5011 - Storage absolutemgmt.com/mcever

Ron's Drivelines Ronald Warren455 Industrial Boulevard Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 532-6869 - Auto Parts & Supplies ronsdrivelines.com

Spine Care & Pain Management - Jeff Clapp 601 Broad Street, Suite BGainesville, GA 30501 (706) 549-8114 - Medical tameyourpain.com

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage Douglas Mooney 340 Jesse Jewell Pkwy SE 1st FloorGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-9813 - Mortgage wellsfargo.com

Yellowfin Chris Richardson 120 Bradford StreetGainesville, GA 30501 (678) 450-4225 - Restaurant

To learn about the benefits of membership or to join the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, contact Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Join the Chamber online:greaterhallchamber.com

Biz Card Ad2 columns 4.4167 x2"


The recent South Hall Business Coalition meeting featured an update on the University of North Georgia (UNG). (L-R): Dr. Chaudron Gille, Associate Vice President University Affairs & Academic Services, UNG; Sloan Jones, Director of Civic Engagement, UNG; Mary Transue, Associate Vice President of Executive Affairs, UNG; Chamber South Hall Council Chairman Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management; Dr. Al M Panu, Senior Vice President, UNG; Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Greater Hall Chamber. The South Hall Business Coalition will meet on Tuesday, April 30 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at Antebellum Restaurant in Flowery Branch. Bill Andrew, City Manager of Flowery Branch, will present an update. Reservations: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]

South Hall Business Coalition

RecognizingSmall Business of the Year – Family Business of the YearSilver Shovel Awards – W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award

105th Annual Meeting & GalaThursday, May 9, 2013

6:00 p.m. at the Chattahoochee Country Club

Black Tie OptionalCocktails 6:00 p.m. Dinner & Program 7:00 p.m. Megan Martin 770-532-6206Email - [email protected] - greaterhallchamber.com

Outdoor Cocktail ReceptionElegant Buffet DinnerAwards & Recognition

Live Music$75 per person; $125 couple

$1200 Table Sponsor (seats 10)

Welcome New Members!

The Norton AgencyKey Economic Indicators

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Leadership Hall County's day began with a tour of the ZF Windpower plant where the class saw firsthand the manufacturing of wind turbine components. At Wrigley Manufacturing Company, the class learned about the chewing gum manufacturing, operations and logistics. While at Wells Fargo, members of the class heard from Phil Bonelli, Vice President of Community Banking, on how the banking industry works with the Chamber’s economic development team and other community leaders with industry/business prospects. Next, the group toured several industrial parks while Tim Evans, Chamber Vice President of Economic Development, and Shelley Davis, Vice President of Existing Industry, spoke about the variety of manufacturers and processors located in Hall County. They talked about what industry prospects are looking for when they are deciding where to locate their business. At Truelove Dairy, owners Dixie and Jerry Truelove talked about the agricultural business in Hall County and the mechanics of operating a dairy farm. Many class members were given an opportunity to milk a cow! The day ended with a reception at the Elk’s Club. Many thanks to lunch sponsor Wells Fargo.

Leadership Hall County

Youth Leadership Hall traveled to the Hall County Detention Center where Sheriff Gerald Couch addressed the group and welcomed them to the facility. After a tour of the jail, the class traveled to Brenau University for lunch and heard from several judicial professionals including Mark Alexander, Stewart, Melvin & Frost and John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates. At the Hall County Court House, Paul House of the Gang Task Force talked with the students about gang issues facing our community. The group also witnessed a live trial in Judge Charlie Wynn’s courtroom. The day ended with a mock trial led by Mark Alexander. Thank you Chick-fil-A of Gainesville, Lakeview Academy and Brenau University for sponsoring meals.

Youth Hall County



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Youth Leadership Hall

Permits Issued - Hall County

Housing Area Permits Feb Feb Jan Total 2013County 2013 2012 2013 2012 YTDBarrow 6 3 10 44 16 Dawson 8 2 3 13 11

Gwinnett 208 62 152 603 360 Forsyth 160 99 136 1,468 296

Jackson 8 1 0 30 8

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home Feb Avg Feb Avg Jan Avg Total Avg Total AvgArea 2013 Price 2012 Price 2013 Price 2012 Price 2013 Price

City 28 171,925 16 97,320 15 59,555 137 125,172 15 59,555

North 30 117,978 30 182,233 22 151,863 322 151,731 22 151,863

East 13 87,965 16 66,720 20 94,692 167 64,758 20 94,692

South 35 134,084 27 121,930 12 149,293 198 163,552 12 149,293

West 46 173,350 43 159,388 28 164,120 558 174,979 28 164,120

Previous Month

Jan 2013

21

Latest

February 29One Year Ago

Feb 2012

8

2012 Total

2572013 YTD

50

Updated 3/27

The Power To Perform

Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call:

Tommy Howard The Norton Agency 770-718-5204 [email protected]

Key EconomicIndicators

Greater Hall County

Latest

Feb 2013

7.5Previous Month

Jan 2013

6.9One Year Ago

Feb 2012

8

10

8

6

4

2

2013

EmploymentHall County

Updated 3/27

Area Jobless Rates

Gainesville City 8.2

Cherokee 7.2Dawson 7.8

Forsyth 6.7

Gwinnett 7.6

Jackson 8.7

Ga Mountains 8State of Georgia 9.1

U.S. 7.9 F M A M J J A S O N D J F

Perc

ent

LatestFebruary 2013

N/APrevious Month

January 2013$257,862,781

One Year Ago

February 2012$199,678,703

Retail Sales

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

Hall County

Updated 3/27

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100’

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A M J J A S O N D J F

1.0

2.0

2 0 1 2

2 0 1 2 2013

12-Month HighFeb 20128.0%



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VIS

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April 2, 2013 • A


ent to The Times

Healthcare Initiative Consortium

Mimi Collins, Chairman of VISION 2030's Healthcare Initiative Consortium and CEO of The Longstreet Clinic, recently presented results of a three-year study focusing on top health indicators in the community to the Greater Hall Chamber’s Healthcare Committee.

Elements of the study came from medical information system technology made available by consortium members and included data on adult patients 18 and older, seen in calendar year 2011. Information included in the 2011 Healthcare Snapshot was BMI – Body Mass Index; Cholesterol; A1C (Risk of Diabetes) – blood sugar levels; and Hypertension.

The total number of patients in the study was 21,808 with the mean age at 49. The report shows high rates of obesity and diabetes among Gainesville-Hall County's adult population. “Our community, like many across the country, has an obesity issue. This leads to high incidence of hypertension, cholesterol and diabetic risk,” noted Collins. “The Healthcare Initiative Consortium will now seek to encourage healthy lifestyles and increase access to healthcare. As the group begins collecting data for the 2012 Snapshot, we hope to gather more information from healthcare providers in the market and also provide a Pediatric Snapshot next year.”

For more on the Healthcare Initiative Consortium, the complete 2011 Healthcare Snapshot Study, or VISION 2030, contact Meg Nivens, Executive Director, 770-532-6206. vision2030.org


The Wisdom Project has 19 people participating in the Spring Session and recently completed the Healthcare program. The Spring Session is at the half-way point having completed programs on Education, Arts & Entertainment, Healthcare and Social Services. Government and Industry are set for later this spring. Class gradu-ation is set for Friday, May 3. The Fall Session will begin in late August and run through November. For information on the Wisdom Project, or to nominate an individual for the next session, contact Meg Nivens at 770-532-6206 or email: [email protected]

The Wisdom Project

Biz Card Ad2 columns 4.4167 x2"

VISION 2030 Healthcare Initiative Consortium (Front, L-R): Debbie Edwards, RN, The Longstreet Clinic; Mimi Collins, CEO, The Longstreet Clinic; Cheryl Christian, Executive Director, Good News Clinics. (Back, L-R): Dr. Gale Starich, Dean, College of Health Sciences, Brenau University; Chad Bolton, Director of Planning, Northeast Georgia Health System.

Jason Grady, Regional STEMI Coordinator at Northeast Georgia Medical Center, gives an update on cardiac care to the Wisdom Project class at the March session.

Serving Northeast Georgia’s Office Solution needs since 19742305 Centennial Dr • Gainesville, GA 30506

770.532.9932 • www.duplicatingproducts.com

Small Business Marketing Workshop Tuesday, February 14

Marketing TrendsPresented by Gordon Sawyer

8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy

Business After HoursThursday, February 16

5:00 - 7:00 p.m.Luna's Restaurant 200 Main Street

Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville

Arbor Day CelebrationFriday, February 17

10:00 a.m.Frances Meadows Center

Safe & Green Regional AssemblyFriday, February 24

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Georgia Mountains Center

Annual Transportation ForumWednesday, March 1411:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Gainesville State College

Job Fair and Career ExpoWednesday, March 2810:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Georgia Mountains Center

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Upcoming Chamber Events

Get Details & Register Online:greaterhallchamber.com

U.S. POSTAGE PAIDPERMIT #47

GAINESVILLE, GA

CAR-RT SORT

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.

Wednesday, April 10Annual Job Fair10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.Gainesville Civic CenterFree – Open to Public

Thursday, April 18Chamber Chase 5K Runand 2 Mile Wellness Walk6:00 p.m. - Run6:10 p.m. - Walk Riverside Military Academy(Register online by April 12th)

Friday, April 26Hacker's Holiday Golf10:00 a.m. Shotgun StartLake Lanier Islands Resort(Register as individual or team)

Tuesday, April 30South Hall Business CoalitionFlowery Branch Update by Bill Andrew, City Manager8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Antebellum Restaurantin Flowery Branch

Thursday, May 9Annual Meeting & Gala6:00 p.m. - Outdoor Reception7:00 p.m. - Dinner ProgramChattahoochee Country Club

Get details and register for these and other events online at greaterhallchamber.com

Back Page Ad10 x 7.5

Upcoming Chamber Events

643 E. E. Butler Parkway • (770) 536-0607 • www.chattahoocheebank.com

YOUR SUCCESS IS OUR DIFFERENCE

If you have to dial “1” to reach your bank, call us at (770) 536-0607 to experience how Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia can deliver the same products with local personal service.

It’s a Local Call.

Rated 5-Starsby Bauer Financial

www.bauerfi nancial.com

WE ARE HEREFor your business

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