Business Link 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 Chairman's Column Page 2 Buy Local Expo Highlights Page 4 Member Announcements Page 10 Small Business of the Month Page 10 Meetings & Events Page 11 New Members Page 13 Blue Zone Summit Page 14 Ribbon Cuttings Page 15 Save the Date MARCH 2016 Thursday, March 10 Transportation Forum Wednesday, March 23 Job Fair Thursday, March 31 Chamber Chase 5K JOB FAIR – Free & Open to the Public – Wednesday, March 23 10 am - 2 pm Gainesville Civic Center The 9th Annual Chamber Chase 5K Run and 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thurs- day, March 31 at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Register online now at ChamberChase5k.com Registration is $30 and $35 after March 17. Register online through March 24, or in person at the Chamber office (230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville) through March 31. All participants will receive a complimentary Race Shirt. Chamber Chase is a healthcare initiative of the VISION 2030 program and seeks to promote both individual and corporate wellness. The 5K Run and 2 Mile Wellness Walk encourages a get fit stay fit lifestyle. With over 2,000 participants in last year's race, the community-wide wellness event offers fun for all ages. Awards include the Fastest Corporate Team, the Fastest Community Team and Fastest CEO! Team Spirit Awards are presented as well as T-Shirt Contest Awards. For the more serious runners, awards are pre- sented to the Overall Male & Female and Top Male & Female in several age groups. Food and drink, awards, music and giveaways are part of the fun following the raceat “Hall County’s Largest Office Party”! Tent rentals are available and are a great way to display your company's products or provide a gathering place for your corporate team. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected]. Info Online: ChamberChase5k.com Thursday, March 10 11:30 am - 1:00 pm University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus / Continuing Education Auditorium Transportation Forum Updates on Transportation Issues & Projects Open to the Public – Includes Lunch The forum is open to the public and creates discussion with transportation officials, Chamber members, business professionals and community lead- ers. Cost: $15 Chamber Members; $20 Guests and at the Door. Includes lunch. Reservations required. Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206x106. Email: [email protected]Reservations Online: GreaterHallChamber.com C HA M B E R C H A S E • • G E T F I T S T A Y F I T C O R P O R A T E C H A L L E N G E 5K A i n iti a ti v e Thursday, March 31 5K Run - 6:00 p.m. 2 Mile Walk - 6:10 p.m. Awards - 7:00 p.m. Register Online Now! ChamberChase5K.com Russell McMurry, Commissioner, Georgia Department of Transportation Brent Cook, District 1 Engineer, Georgia Department of Transportation Srikanth Yamala, Director, Gainesville-Hall Metro Planning Organization
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B u s i n e s s L i n kG 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
Chairman's ColumnPage 2
Buy Local ExpoHighlightsPage 4
Member AnnouncementsPage 10
Small Business of the MonthPage 10
Meetings & EventsPage 11
New MembersPage 13
Blue Zone SummitPage 14
Ribbon CuttingsPage 15
Save the Date
M A R C H2 0 1 6
Thursday, March 10Transportation Forum
Wednesday, March 23Job Fair
Thursday, March 31Chamber Chase 5K
JOB FAIR– Free & Open to the Public –Wednesday, March 23
10 am - 2 pmGainesville Civic Center
The 9th Annual Chamber Chase 5K Run and 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thurs-day, March 31 at 6:00 p.m. at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Register online now at ChamberChase5k.com
Registration is $30 and $35 after March 17. Register online through March 24, or in person at the Chamber office (230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville) through March 31. All participants will receive a complimentary Race Shirt.
Chamber Chase is a healthcare initiative of the VISION 2030 program and seeks to promote both individual and corporate wellness. The 5K Run and 2 Mile Wellness Walk encourages
a get fit stay fit lifestyle. With over 2,000 participants in last year's race, the community-wide wellness event offers fun for all ages.
Awards include the Fastest Corporate Team, the Fastest Community Team and Fastest CEO! Team Spirit Awards are presented as well as T-Shirt Contest Awards. For the more serious runners, awards are pre-sented to the Overall Male & Female and Top Male & Female in several age groups. Food and drink, awards, music and giveaways are part of the fun following the raceat “Hall County’s Largest Office Party”! Tent rentals are available and are a great way to display your company's products or provide a gathering place for your corporate team. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected]. Info Online: ChamberChase5k.com
Thursday, March 1011:30 am - 1:00 pm
University of North Georgia Gainesville Campus / Continuing Education Auditorium
Transportation Forum
Updates on Transportation Issues & Projects Open to the Public – Includes Lunch
The forum is open to the public and creates discussion with transportation officials, Chamber members, business professionals and community lead-ers. Cost: $15 Chamber Members; $20 Guests and at the Door. Includes lunch. Reservations required. Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206x106. Email: [email protected] Reservations Online: GreaterHallChamber.com
CH
AM
BER CHASE • • GET FIT STAY FIT CORPORATE C
HALL
ENGE
5K A
initia
tive
Thursday, March 315K Run - 6:00 p.m.
2 Mile Walk - 6:10 p.m.Awards - 7:00 p.m.
Register Online Now!ChamberChase5K.com
Russell McMurry, Commissioner, Georgia Department of Transportation Brent Cook, District 1 Engineer, Georgia Department of Transportation
Srikanth Yamala, Director, Gainesville-Hall Metro Planning Organization
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THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME, AND THERE’S NO RATE LIKE OURS
Employee wellness continues to expand and change in the workplace as orga-nizations implement initiatives to combat rising health care costs and support the development of healthy lifestyles in their workforce. Employers are creating safe work environments, improving employee health and implement-ing strategies that reduce medical costs as well as increase employee morale and on-the-job efficiency. Wellness programs demonstrate to employees that their health is important while significantly reducing absenteeism, improving productivity and enhancing employee morale.
The Greater Hall Chamber VISION 2030 program identified healthcare as a significant issue in planning for the future of Gainesville-Hall County and implemented a Healthcare Committee in 2007. As part of the committee's program of work, a HealthSmart Wellness Expo is held annually, focusing on community health and wellness and continues to be one of VISION 2030’s most successful initiatives. Additionally, the “Most Fit Company” in Gaines-ville-Hall County has been a popular program and includes a contest for employers with outstanding wellness plans.
The Annual Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk, now in it's 9th year, is also a VISION 2030 HealthSmart program and includes corporate and community teams. The event includes education and training opportunities for the participants focusing on physical activity and nutrition. Chamber Chase has become one of the community’s most successful wellness programs. On March 31, over 2,000 people participated in some aspect of the race at Riverside Military Academy.
Instead of gathering at the company water-cooler for a post-work chat session, thousands of employ-ees descend upon Riverside Military Academy to get a little exercise. The goal of the annual run/walk is to encourage businesses to create company-based wellness programs for employees. You can learn more or register at ChamberChase5K.com
“Hall County’s Largest Office Party” at the end of the race course provides an opportunity for em-ployees of different businesses to mix and mingle and unwind after the race. There is food, live music along with prizes to the Fastest Corporate Team, Fastest Community Team, Fastest CEO, Most Spirited Team and T-Shirt Design Team Winner.
Corporate wellness programs are well worth the time and effort invested in them. The success record of companies utilizing these programs indicates that an employee who is happy and healthy is more productive and motivated, stays away from work due to illness less often and remains employed with the company for a longer time. Investing in employee’s health is beneficial to the employee as well as to the company. I hope your organization is planning to participate in Chamber Chase 2016. Sign up as an individual or a team. For details, contact Megan Martin at 770-532-6206 x 115 or email: [email protected].
Importance of Workplace Wellness
Brian DanielCarroll Daniel Construction Co. Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Charlotte Atkins, The TimesPerry Barnett, CPA, Rushton & CompanyCol. James Benson, Riverside Military AcademyPhil Bonelli, Wells FargoDr. Wanda Creel, Gainesville City SchoolsStacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVBDanny Dunagan, Mayor, City of GainesvilleSam Evans, Councilman, City of OakwoodJosh Everett, New Leaf Landscape ServicesJimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith InsuranceTony Funari, Funari RealtyLoren Funk, The Longstreet ClinicRob Geoffroy, The Atlanta FalconsEmily Hayes, Milton Martin ToyotaWill Hicks, StifelMorgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic VenueDr. Bonita Jacobs, University of North GeorgiaAnna Jacobs, Jacobs MediaLane Jones, Highland Mountain BeverageJay Kelley, Signs By TomorrowDr. John Kennedy, Lakeview AcademyMary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications
Steve McNeilly, Northeast GA Health SystemDick Mecum, Chair, Hall County CommissionTerry Merck, American YazakiMike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery BranchSteve Naughton, Enterprising SolutionsJames Nix, Mayor, City of ClermontBill Orr, Mayor, Town of BraseltonGreg Ours, Poly EnterprisesDr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical CollegeLarry Poole, Mayor, City of GillsvilleBrad Puryear, Mansfield EnergyBarbara Rambo, ProCare RxJeff Reinhardt, MD, The Longstreet ClinicWill Schofield, Hall County School SystemDr. Ed Schraeder, Brenau UniversityCarol Shirley, South State BankLouis Smith, Northeast Georgia Health SystemJody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’sGrier Todd, Lanier IslandsMilton Turner, Mayor, City of LulaPhilip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging
Andy Bangs, Alexander, Almand & BangsCarolina Diaz, Georgia PowerCraig Dowdy, SunTrustAnna Guzman, Jackson EMCMichael Lancaster, Edward JonesErin Langford, HTI Employment Solutions
Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor FarmsMike McGraw, PrideStaffSteven Mickens, Boys & Girls ClubsJosh Schlieman, Sullivan & SchliemanGary Smith, Milton Martin HondaElizabeth Thompson, House Dressing
B u s i n e s s L i n k
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2015-2016 Executive Committee
ChairmanBrian DanielCarroll Daniel Construction Co.
South Hall CouncilMegan Martin, Vice President Membership
Community DevelopmentRobin Halstead, Vice President
VISION 2030Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director
Marketing & CommunicationsKemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant
Greater Hall Chamber Welcome CenterRobin Halstead, Manager
Workshop for Small Business(L-R): Brean-na Smith and Melinda Coker, Small Business Access Partners, sponsor of the Lean Principles for Small Busi-ness Workshop in January presented by James Taylor, PhD and Su-zanne Erickson, PhD, of Brenau University.
The Greater Hall Chamber's Job Fair is Wednesday, March 23 from 10 am to 2 pm at the Gainesville Civic Center and is a great opportunity for both employers and job seekers. The event is open to the public with NO admission fee! Employers will have the opportunity to meet hundreds of job candidates face-to-face during a short period of time. For job seekers, the event provides coveted face-
time and personal contact with hiring managers. The Presenting Sponsor is Spherion Staffing Services. Additional sponsors include Express Employment Professionals (Platinum); King's Hawaiian (Gold); HTI Employment Solutions (Silver), Gainesville Area Employer Committee, Georgia Department of Labor and Lanier Technical College. Goods/Service Sponsors: Signs by Tomorrow, McDonald's, McGarity's Business Products, Milton Martin Honda and Panera Bread. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
Job Fair to feature 60+ exhibitors
The Job Fair on March 23 is open to the public, with no admission fee and 60+ employers and hiring agencies on site, including event presenting sponsor Spherion Staffing Professionals (L-R): Ashleigh Kovach, Kelley Smith, Emily Hixson and Stacey Reece, owner.
The Chamber's South Hall Business Coalition will meet on Tuesday, March 15 from 8-9am for an update on Elachee Nature Science Center by Andrea Timpone, Executive Director, and tour the new “Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats” exhibition. In 2015, Elachee welcomed 30,000 trail users and brought nature alive for 31,254 students (255 schools and groups representing 24 school systems in Atlanta and North Georgia). Camp Elachee gets children unplugged and outdoors during school breaks, and the Elachee Nature Preschool prepares children for kindergarten with 50% of their time spent outdoors in hands-on discovery. Annual public programs such as “Raptor Fest,” “Georgia Master Naturalist,” (a life-long learning series) and volunteer conservation projects draw thousands to reconnect with nature. Elachee.org Chamber South Hall Business Coalition meetings are held monthly and sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and Red Clay Interactive. Light breakfast included. $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected]
Coalition to meet at Elachee
Buy Local Expo Highlights
AccessWDUN (L-R): Dick Huff, Bill Maine, Jay and Anna Jacobs, Mitch Clarke, Karen Elliott. AccessWDUN was the Buy Local Business After Hours sponsor. The event featured a "Taste of Gainesville" with menu samples from 10 local restaurants.
Milton Martin Honda (L-R): Tim Pledge, Chris Browning, Andi Farmer, Tot Ingram and Gary Smith. Milton Martin Honda was a gold-level sponsor and provided a shuttle service at the Buy Local Expo.
South State Bank (L-R): Carol Shirley and Anna Cash.
Ansely Communications Group (L-R): Tom Hand, Don Ansley and Lee DeCuircio with Chopper, the Gwinnett Braves mascot!
(L-R): Ian Poole, Breanna Duffee and Tommy Gay of Look Who's Happy Dog Treats, Expo exhibitors and contributors to the Buy Local Grand Prize. The Grand Prize ($1000 value) was won by Emily Hixson of Spherion and included a year's supply of dog treats, home decor from Gainesville Design Center and House Dressing Interiors, along with generous gift certificates from 2 Dog Restaurant and DressUp.
Officials participate in a tree planting as part of Arbor Day festivities on February 19th at Elachee Nature Science Center. Other activities included student art and essay contest recognition and the reading of a joint city/county proclamation with Tree City USA recognition.
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A new service providing tax-centric financial planning for North Georgia individuals, families and business owners.
10:00 am - 2:00 pmGainesville Civic Center830 Green Street in Gainesville
• Open to the Public • No Admission Fee • Featuring 60+ Employers • All Job Seekers Welcome • Complete job applications on site • Meet hiring managers face-to-face • Employers will be hiring on site • Make great business contacts • Network with companies hiring
Exhibit space still available. Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
Attent ion Job Seekers!
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1/4 Page Ad2 columns 4.4167 x5"
The 2016 Chamber Chase 5K and 2 Mile Wellness Walk is Thursday, March 31 at 6:00 pm at Riverside Military Academy in Gainesville. Register ONLINE through March 24 at ChamberChase5k.com or register IN PERSON now through March 31 at the Chamber, 230 E.E. But-ler Parkway in Gainesville. $30, and $35 after March 17. FREE food, drink, music and giveaways following the race at “Hall County’s Largest Office Party”! Tent rentals available! Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: [email protected] Online: ChamberChase5k.com
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• Rotary Club of Gainesville award-ed Garland Reynolds as Man of the Year, while Deborah Mack was named Woman of the Year. Since 1939, the club has given the awards for leadership and service to the community, state and nation. rotaryclubofgainesville.com• Junior Achievement's Northeast Georgia Business Hall of Fame awards were presented to Don Carter, Georgia Department of National Resources board member; Ben Cheek, 1st Franklin Finan-cial CEO; and Dr. Nabil Muhanna, neu-rosurgeon and inventor. Other JA Awards included: Nancy Norton, The Norton Agency, Volunteer of the Year Award; Rose Procter, Director of BB&T Center for Ethical Business Leadership at UNG, Educa-tor of the Year; RichLife Advisors, JA Business Partnership of the Year Award; and Dr. Ron Wilson, Gus Whalen Rising Star Award for innovation, entrepreneurship and community service. juniorachievement.org• Hall County Government Scholars' Academy is March 15-May 10. Each of the nine sessions will focus on a differ-ent aspect of local government and in-clude tours of many facilities. "We want to encourage citizens to be active in their local government," County Administra-tor Randy Knighton said. "Participants will gain an intimate understanding of how their tax dollars are spent and what issues face Hall County Government." No charge. Registration form and sylla-bus available online: hallcounty.org • The Rooster’s Perch is expanding and adding a multi-profession training pro-gram to help individuals with disabilities obtain skills for employment. Located three doors down from the Rooster’s Perch on Bradford Street in Gainesville, R&F Industries opens in March and features a variety of businesses run by individuals with disabilities. Colleen Pirkle, employment specialist with Randy and Friends, said the expansion will allow the organization to serve up to 35-40 per week. randyandfriends.org• The Chamber's Annual Job Fair is Wednesday, March 23 from 10am-2pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. Pre-sented by Spherion Staffing Services, the event provides the perfect forum for companies hiring to recruit new employ-ees and provides job seekers with valu-able face time with hiring managers. No admission fee and open to the public. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]• Chamber Board meetings are open to Chamber members. Attend a meeting, network with Chamber leadership and
learn what's happening in Greater Hall County! The next meeting is Thurs-day, March 24 at the Gainesville Civic Center, 12-1:30 pm. Reservations Re-quired. $11 per person; includes lunch. Reservations: Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x 106. Email: [email protected] • Hall County Animal Shelter's 1st Annual Wag at the Ag adoption event is Sunday, March 20 from 12-2pm at the Chicopee Woods Ag Center, 1855 Calvary Church Road in Gainesville. hallcounty.org • City of Gainesville welcomes Linda MacGregor as water resources director with 20 years of experience and work at the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority. MacGregor is a graduate of Vanderbilt University and replaces Kelly Randall, who is retiring, as water resources director. gainesville.org• Elton Maddox, president and CEO of Wayne Farms, was named the U.S. Poultry and Egg Association's "Work-horse of the Year" and received the award at the International Poultry Expo in January. The award is considered the poultry industry's most esteemed honor. Maddox is a Georgia native and UGA graduate. He joined Wayne Farms in 1974 and has served as chairman of the National Chicken Council and the Georgia Improvement Association as well as president of the Georgia Poultry Federation and Georgia Poultry Proces-sors Federation. waynefarms.com• Thank you Gwinnett Braves and Lanier Islands, the major prize sponsors for the Chamber's Membership Re-cruitment Campaign. Thank you HTI Employment Solutions for sponsoring the New Member Breakfast, and thank you to the following for donations as weekly incentives: Belk, Fajitas Restaurant, Oakwood Package Store, Pink Barre-Lake Lanier, Saul’s, Sweet Magnolia’s, The Spa on Green Street, and Uncle Maddio’s Pizza Joint.• The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. announces Rebecca Bedingfield Ando, MD to the Center for Women’s Health. She is an experienced OBGYN and comes to TLC from a private practice in Rich-mond, VA. TLC’s Center for Women’s Health has locations in Gainesville, Baldwin, Braselton and Dahlonega. longstreetclinic.com/women• Choices Pregnancy Care Center (CPCC) has added new staff members to its administrative team: Ann Milner, Marketing Specialist; Mary Baxter, Patient Services Manager; Elizabeth Fogarty, Administrative Coordinator; and Lisa Hes-
ter, Operations Director. CPCC's Annual Fundraising Gala is Thursday, March 10 at 6:45 pm at First Baptist Church of Gainesville. The event features Keynote Speaker Star Parker, a nationally syndi-cated columnist, Fox News contributor and author. $30 per person; $240 Table Sponsor. Additional sponsorships avail-able. Must be 18 to attend. Reservations online: choicespregnancypartners.org• The University of Georgia Small Business Development Center in Gainesville has moved to a new location and welcomes Bruce Cutler, Area Di-rector, and Marjory Wooten, Program Coordinator. The office is now located in Interstate Ridge Business Park at 906 Interstate Ridge Drive, Suite B in Gainesville. Program info: 770-531-5681 or visit georgiasbdc.org/gainesville• Headquartered in Gainesville, M3 Accounting + Analytics is the industry leader in hospitality accounting and analytics software and has promoted Casi Johnson, former Executive VP of Operations to COO-Innovations Leader.
M3 has over 500 customers (4,000 properties) and helps provide the hotel industry with access to the information they need in the most integrated and cost effective manner. m3as.com• Olympic qualifying canoe & kayak rac-es are coming to Lake Lanier and orga-nizers are seeking volunteers. The Lake Lanier Olympic Park will host the Pan American Championships Continen-tal Olympic Qualifier for Juniors and Seniors from Thursday, May 19 through May 22. To sign up as a volunteer: visit lakelanierolympicvenue.org• Did you know that a listing of Retire-ment and Assisted Living Facilities in the Area is the Greater Hall Chamber's single most requested information? Welcome Center Manager Robin Halstead has recently updated material. For a copy, call Robin at 770-532-6206 or email [email protected]
With a love of food and Julia Child as her inspiration, Dannella Burnett has worked in culinary and special events since the age of 16. She holds degrees in Culinary Arts and Food Service Management from Johnson & Wales University and has earned Gold Med-als in international culinary competitions in the U.K. and Germany.
Following college, she managed restaurants, catered and coordinated events and wed-dings in Washington, DC and Virginia. In 2009, Dannella created Oakwood Occasions to provide North Georgia with quality event solutions and to support her family. Over the last seven years Oakwood Occasions has offered custom catering, high end vending options, fudge shipped nationally, coffee ser-
vices with Organo Coffee, OO Coffee Shoppe, OO Café and Event Management. In 2015 Oakwood Occasions streamlined operations and now offers event solutions and production and wedding planning in addition to operating the OO Café in the Hall County Government Center featuring Organo Coffees and Teas. Dannella has been featured in several publications. She has been named in Gwinnett Magazine's "People to Know" for two years, and recently was nominated as North Georgia’s Best Event Planner and Best Wedding Cakes. She has become an author and sought-after speaker for Women's Empowerment and Small Business Owner-ship and Event Solutions. Dannella is truly a creative entrepreneur who believes in Multiple Streams of Income and always finding the Win-Win-Win combination. Through creative partnerships with her incredible network as well as high level of experience, Dannella brings everything to the table needed to make your event a success! 770-297-4750. oakwoodoccasions.com
Small Business of the MonthOakwood Occasions
Dannella Burnett Chamber Small Business of the Month.
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MARCH 2016Wednesday, March 2Healthcare Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, March 4New Member Breakfast & Orientation8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Lanier Charter Career Academy
Tuesday, March 8Small Business Seminar"Employment Law Update" Presented by Madeline Wirt and David Dickerson, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker7:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, March 8Youth Leadership Hall8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Tuesday, March 8Ambassadors Council3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Cafe
Wednesday, March 9Network Over Coffee8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Southern Smoq BBQin Flowery Branch
Thursday, March 10Leadership Hall County8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Thursday, March 10Annual Transportation Forum11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.University of North Georgia Gainesville
Thursday, March 10Business After HoursSponsored by Fidelity Bank5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.7375 Spout Springs Rd in Flowery Branch
Friday, March 11Economic Development Council7:30 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, March 15South Hall Business Coalition
"Update on Elachee Nature Science Center" Presented by Andrea Timpone8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Elachee Nature Science Center
Tuesday, March 15VISION 2030 Board of Directors11:30 a.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, March 16Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, March 16Lunch 'n Learn12:00 p.m. - 1:-00 p.m.Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood
Wednesday, March 23Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Brenau Tea Room in Gainesville
Wednesday March 23Job Fair10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Gainesville Civic Center
Thursday, March 24Chamber Board of Directors12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.Gainesville Civic Center
Tuesday, March 29Workforce Development Lunch11:30 – 1:00Lanier Charter Career Academy
Thursday, March 319th Annual Chamber Chase 5K and 2 Mile Wellness Walk6:00 p.m. – Riverside Military AcademyRegister Online: ChamberChase5k.com
Events Online: GreaterHallChamber.com
Thank You Chamber Event SponsorsAccessWDUN
Chick-fil-A of GainesvilleChili's of Flowery Branch
Clipper PetroleumElachee
Express Employment ProsFidelity Bank
Gville Employer CommitteeGA Department of Labor
Highland Mountain Water HTI Employment SolutionsIndependence Bank of GA
Jackson EMCJacobs Media
King's HawaiianLakewood Baptist ChurchLanier Technical College
McDonald's
Milton Martin Honda Milton Martin Toyota NEGA Health SystemRed Clay Interactive
Rochester & AssociatesSigns by Tomorrow
Spherion Staffing ServicesWSI Digital Rainmakers
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The Longstreet Clinic, P.C.�
is pleased to welcome�
Rebecca Bedingfield�Ando, M.D.�
770-297-2200�longstreetclinic.com/women/center�
Gainesville • Braselton • Dahlonega • Baldwin�
Comprehensive obstetric and�gynecological care for women�.�
Dr. Bedingfield Ando earned her medical degree�at the Medical College of Georgia. She then�completed her Obstetrics and Gynecology�residency at the University of Illinois in Chicago.�
An experienced OB/GYN, Dr. Bedingfield Ando�joins us from private practice in Richmond.�Additionally, she is a graduate of the University�of Georgia and has close ties to Gainesville and�Hall County. Dr. Bedingfield Ando has medical�staff privileges at Northeast Georgia�Medical Center.�
Doctors You Know. Care You Trust.�
Welcoming new patients!�
To schedule an appointment with�Dr. Bedingfield Ando, please call (770) 297-2200.�
(L-R): Chadwick Meyer, Lanier Islands; Brent Drury, Lakeview Academy; Sara Ogden, BatesCarter; Charlie Hawkins, Norton Commercial Real Estate, and Dana Miller, Chamber VP Education, filled "Chicken Boxes" with products manufactured or represented by companies in Gainesville-Hall County. The Leadership Hall class recently visited the state capitol and distributed a box to each member of the legislature. While at the capitol, the class met with local delegates: Senators Butch Miller and John Wilkinson; Representatives Carl Rogers, Emory Dunahoo. Jr., Lee Hawkins and Timothy Barr. The class heard from Past Chamber Chair David Lee, Jackson EMC; Mike Giles, President, Georgia Poultry Federation; Deb Bailey, Northeast Georgia Health System, Meredith Melvin Weaver; Melvin Weaver Consulting, and Harris Blackwood, Georgia Office of Highway Safety. Thank you sponsors: Chick-fil-A of Gainesville, Jackson EMC, Clipper Petroleum, Northeast Georgia Health System and Chili’s of Flowery Branch.
Leadership Hall County
LHC Nomination Deadline: March 15Since 1983, Leadership Hall County has provided a learning experience for existing and emerging leaders of the Greater Hall area. Today, nearly 900 people have graduated from the program. Nominations are open for the 2016-2017 class. Individuals (25 and older) will develop an understanding of Gainesville and Hall County through a series of one-day sessions. Tuition is $800 for Chamber member; $600 non-profit member and $970 for non-Chamber member. Individuals must be nominated for the program by March 15. To make a nomi-nation, contact Dana Miller, 770-532-6206 x 113. Email: [email protected]
Youth Leadership's Community Service Program began at the Gainesville Police Department where Sgt. Dean Staples spoke about the dangers of drinking and driving and other traffic crimes. The class participating in a simulated driving under the influence using “drunk” goggles while driving a golf cart. At Challenged Child & Friends, the students heard from the staff about the organization and had interactive time with the boys and girls in their classrooms. At Lakewood Baptist Church the class heard a presentation from Jessica Butler, Gateway Domestic Violence Center, on the dangers and signs of teen dating violence. Semuel Maysonet, Finance of America Mortgage, talked with the class about the importance of good credit, and Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County, led the class on an interactive Poverty Simulation exercise. The day ended at the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County where some class members (pictured above) learned about the club's mission and interacted with the kids. Thank you McDonald’s for sponsoring breakfast.
Youth Leadership Hall
(L-R): February Program Presenter Lee Goff, GetUWired, and Chamber Small Business Roundtable Chair Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance. Join attorneys Madeline Wirt and David Dickerson of Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker on Tuesday, March 8 from 7:45-9:00 am at the Chamber for discussion on important employment law topics, including the Department of Labor’s highly publicized proposed rule to extend overtime protection to many white-collar employees who are currently exempt from overtime protection. Discussion will also focus on avoiding pitfalls that might occur when employees use their smartphones after hours for work purposes. Madeline has practiced law for almost 30 years. She has always focused her career heavily on employment law and has enjoyed a fantastic reputation representing local and regional employers of all sizes. David began practicing law in 2008 and has spent his entire career in Gainesville. In addition to employment law, he has experience in litigation and transactional work, giving him a unique perspective when advising employers. Sponsored by Highland Mountain Beverage, Jacobs Media, Signs by Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers. No charge for Chamber members; $15 Non-members. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: [email protected]
Small Business Seminar
Upcoming Membership EventsDon't miss BUSINESS AFTER HOURS at FIDELITY BANK in Flowery Branch on Thursday, March 10 from 5-7pm. Fidelity Bank has been serving the community for over 40 years with personable service, a full range of financial products and by lending money to help people and companies grow. Whether you are looking for a mortgage, commercial loan or a free checking account, call, stop in their Spout Springs location or visit online (lionbank.com). They look forward to being your financial partner and finding solutions that will make you roar! 7375 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch 30542. 404-553-2730.
Chamber Members... mark your calendar for the April 14th BUSINESS AFTER HOURS to celebrate the GRAND OPENING of THE LOUVER SHOP in Gainesville. The Louver Shop is the largest shutter manufacturer in the United States (louvershop.com). Enjoy live entertainment, gift giveaways, great food, wine, beer and cocktails much more. More details to come in the April Business Link!
Citizens PharmacySamir Shah 5325 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch GA 30542(770) 967-3324- Medical / Pharmacy citizenspharmacy.com
Community Clinics of Georgia, LLCMelissa Rutland 3 Washington Avenue Gainesville GA 30501 (678) 707-8539 - Medical David McKinley HomesDavid McKinley 631 Dawsonville HighwayGainesville GA 30501 (770) 540-1122 - Real Estate davidmckinley.com
Homestar100 Team Jeff Waggoner 848 Jesse Jewell Pkwy, SWGainesville GA 30501 (678) 997-2699 - Mortgages homestar100.com
Mary Helen Roop Hosch3801 Village View #1506Gainesville GA 30506 (770) 287 4801 - Individual Member Hot Dog Ninja Landon Brockmeyer 3543 Poplar Springs Gainesville GA 30507 (770) 866-0085 - Restaurant & Cateringhotdogninja.com
Inn Between Deli Anderson Dunlap 965 Riverside Drive Gainesville GA 30501 (770) 536-5518 - Restaurant & Catering
J. Douglas Parks, P.C.81 Crown Mountain Place Suite C-100 Dahlonega GA 30533 (706) 864-4184 - Attorney jdplaw.net
Jake Martin & Son Contractors, Inc. Jake Martin 341 Bradford Street Gainesville GA 30501 (770) 531-0014 - Landscapejakemartinandson.com
Keller Williams Lanier Partners - Dianne Hicks631 Dawsonville HighwayGainesville GA 30501 (678) 794-1335 - Real Estate diannehickskw.com
Keller Williams Lanier Partners - Peggy Curtin631 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville GA 30501 (678) 316-1576 - Real Estate teammadera.yourkwagent.com
Lee Towns State Farm Agency Lee Towns 2458 Limestone Parkway Suite E Gainesville GA 30501 (678) 971-1756 - Insurance insuredbylee.com
Lew's Personalized Cutting Boards Kyle Lewallen 5806 Hood Street Lula GA 30554 (512) 656-4159 - Gifts & Specialty Itemslewsboards.com
Medical Weight Loss by Healthogenics Sharon Bicknell 952 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville GA 30501 (678) 381-8081 - Weight Loss Center mdwls.com Mountain Works Service CompanyJamie Dunlap P.O. Box 766 Clayton GA 30525 (706) 782-9930 - Constructionmountainworksserviceco.com
Pattillo Construction CorpJohn Drake 5830 E Ponce de Leon AveStone Mountain GA 30083(770) 938-6388 - Constructionpattilloconstruction.com
Mark Pettitt4636 Countryside Drive-Flowery Branch GA 30542(770) 789-3149- Individual Member
PSK Document SolutionsBret Roberts 4616 Elk Ridge CtSuite 103Flowery Branch GA 30542(678) 334-4310 - Office Supplies & Equip.pskdocumentsolutions.com
Regional Finance David Stephens 322 Oak Street, Suite 4(770) 510-5667 - Financial Services regionalfinance.com
Supporting Adoption and Foster Families TogetherAshleyAnderson 430 Prior Street, SW Gainesville GA 30501 (770) 886-9505 -Non-Profit safft.org
Trigger Time Indoor Gun Range Karen Whitlock 7429 Spout Springs Road Suite #101 Flowery Branch GA 30542(770) 967-4444 - Recreation / Gun Safetytriggertime.com
Upsy Daisy Boutique Dawn Parks 114 Washington St, NWGainesville GA 30501 (678) 971-1971- Gifts & Specialty Items
Andrew Walker3416 Blue Spruce CtGainesville, GA 30504(770) 654-5080 - Individual Member
New members thru 2-18-16
Biz13
870 Grove Street in Gainesville 770-536-9852 www.mcgaritys.com
Business Products
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Through the VISION 2030 Healthcare Consortium, two community wide studies of the health status of our commu-nity have been completed – one on the adult population and one on children. The Healthcare Consortium is a group of healthcare leaders gathering Hall County data on some of the top health indicators. This group is working toward commu-nity health improvement on the local level using meaningful and specific data as well as ongoing communication. Repre-sentatives of the consortium include healthcare professionals, doctors, educators and industry leaders.
These Heath Snapshots were published to expose definitive obesity in both Hall County’s adults and children. In fact, between 75-80% of adults and 36% of our children are now clinically obese. (Visit VISION2030.org for the full reports.)
As the group presented this data, especially the one on children, VISION 2030 leaders recognized that the future of our community is for and contingent on these children – in 2030 these children will be the leaders, workforce and future of Greater Hall County and beyond. This realization created both awareness and alarm as the majority of our future workforce is slated to have serious health issues.
Through the work of hundreds of volunteers, VISION 2030 has made great strides and accomplished significant goals for our community. We have much to celebrate!
However, the health status of our children is troubling and as a result has the poten-tial to negatively impact our community’s economy and quality of life. Given we have passed the half-way mark and are only 14 years away from 2030, this should be a call to action for us as individuals and a community.
By bringing the Blue Zone Community Summit to Gainesville-Hall County, we hope to inspire us individually and as a community to take action and engage in our health and wellness.
What is the Blue Zone?Did you know that watering houseplants burns the same number of calories as stretching and walking? Scientists at the Mayo Clinic found that increasing simple movements – standing, walking, and talking – can help you burn an additional 350 calories each day. Sounds easy, right? That’s the point. And, that’s the reason the Healthcare Consortium is hosting the Blue Zone Community Summit on Thursday, April 21, 2016 at the Brenau Downtown Center. National Geographic Fellow and New York Times best selling author, Dan Buettner (bluezones.com) is the featured speaker and will help us understand how to live healthier, happier and longer.
In 2004, Dan Buettner teamed up with National Geographic and the world’s best longevity researchers to identify pockets around the world where people live mea-surably longer better. In these “Blue Zones” they found that people reach age 100 at rates 10 times greater than in the United States.
After identifying 5 of the world’s Blue Zones, Dan and National Geographic took teams of scientists to each location to identify lifestyle characteristics that might ex-plain longevity. They found that the lifestyles of all Blue Zones residents shared nine specific characteristics. We call these characteristics the Power 9®. Moving Natural-ly is one of those characteristics. It can be started as easily as watering houseplants.
We invite you to join us as we work toward Vision 2030’s goal of an exceptional quality of life for Hall County – and in the meantime shed pounds, slash healthcare costs, and add years to your average life expectancy! The Blue Zone Commu-nity Summit is Open to the Public. Tickets are $25 each. Limited seating. Visit vision2030.org/blue-zones now to reserve your spot!
Imagine the possibilities if we followed the Blue Zone 9 Power Approaches for longevity and happiness:
Move naturally Have a purpose Down shift stressFollow the 80% full stomach rule Eat more plants Drink wine
Belong to a faith Put loved ones first Join the right tribe
Help Make the VISION a REALITYStronger workforce. Exceptional quality of life.
Thriving economy.
For more information or to register online, visit vision2030.org\blue-zone
BLUE ZONECOMMUNITY SUMMIT
Thursday, April 21 | 7:00 p.m.Brenau Downtown Center
$25 per person
9 to THRIVE: Learn to Live Better and LongerPresented by Dan Buettner – National Geographic Fellow &
New York Times best selling author
Join Vision 2030 as we learn from the world’s “Blue Zones” how to move our community towards
better health and a thriving quality of life.
Funded in part by a grant from Healthcare Georgia Foundation and these sponsors:
Purpose Sponsor: ProCare RxTribe Sponsors: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia | Northeast Georgia
Medical Center Gainesville | Northeast Georgia Medical Center BraseltonWine @ 5 Sponsors: The Longstreet Clinic | CIGNA
Belong Sponsors: Forum Communications | North Georgia Community Foundation | The Norton Agency | United Way of Hall County
Move Sponsors: AccessWDUN | Brenau University | Georgia Power
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Lewis Halski, Founder, President & CEO, cuts ribbon at Halski Systems' new headquarters. Halski provides Georgia IT network design, installation, administration, and consulting services
to small, mid-size and enterprise level businesses in Atlanta and North Georgia. Halski offer a full range of customized, flexible IT solutions that meet each client’s individual needs. 3030 McEver Road, Suite 330 in Gainesville. 770-536-2276. halski.com
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March 1, 2016 • A
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Benefits of Membership...• Listing in the Membership Directory / Online• Access to Networking Opportunities and Events• Access to Forums, Seminars and Peer Groups• Volunteer Opportunities and Community Involvement• Advertising, Publicity, Sponsorship Opportunities• Business Referrals / Leads & Networking Groups• Gain in Exposure / Ribbon Cuttings• Make Business Connections
As a Greater Hall Chamber member, businesses are entitled to a host of benefits. The potential dividends from investment are unlimited! Join online: greaterhallchamber.com
Halski Systems
Want to promote your company with a RIBBON CUTTING? This is a free service if you're a Chamber Member. Not a member? Join today and receive numerous benefits including business referrals, networking leads, exposure in Business Link, free seminars, and much more. Call Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 116.
Colleen Manji cuts ribbon at Jazzercise Gainesville Fitness Center, located between Ledan and Mt Vernon Roads in Gainesville. Jazzercise is a pulse-pounding, beat-pumping fitness program that gets you results… fast. It’s a calorie-torching, hip swiveling, dance party with
a hot playlist to distract you from the burn. Instructors train every year to master the Jazzercise method, which fuses cardio, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and, of course, the demanding forms of dance. Free childcare with 12-month sign up. 678- 681-9887. local.jazzercise.com/jazzercise-gainesville/Gainesville-GA/
Jazzercise Gainesville
Angel Retana, owner/operator of Fajitas Mexican Restaurant and El Carreton Taqueria, recently opened Gainesville Seafood Market. El Carreton Taqueria, an Atlanta Highway taco stand, opened 21 years ago and Fajitas on Thompson Bridge Road, 10 years ago. Gainesville Seafood market is housed in a
4,000-square-foot facility, which has been unoccupied for several years. Customers will be able to buy fish to cook at home or dine in at the restaurant. 1403 Atlanta Highway, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-595-9160. gainesvilleseafoodmkt.com
New Gainesville Seafood Market
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Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS®
Financial Advisor3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22Gainesville, GA 30506770-536-2031
Rick Kimpling, AAMS®
Financial Advisor64 North Brooks Street Unit BCleveland, GA 30528706-865-0933
Beth BaldwinFinancial Advisor439 Green Street NorthwestGainesville, GA 30501770-534-1220
www.edwardjones.comMember SIPC
We Understand CommitmentYou can rely on Edward Jones for one-on-oneattention, our quality-focused investment philosophy and straight talk about your financial needs. Contact an Edward Jones financial advisor today.