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

Newly Elected OfficersPage 2

Newly Elected Board MembersPage 5

Meetings & EventsPage 6

New MembersPages 8 & 12

Member AnnouncementsPage 10

Small Business of the MonthPage 10

VISION 2030Page 14

Ribbon CuttingsPage 15

Save the Date

A P R I L2 0 1 6

Tuesday, April 12Small Business Seminar

Thursday, April 14Business After Hours

Friday, April 29Hackers Holiday Golf

The Greater Hall Chamber's 37th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament presented by Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia is Friday, April 29 at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club at Lanier Islands. A shotgun start at 10 a.m. kicks off the tournament that includes fun, fellowship and great prizes for scratch golfers and hackers alike. Entry Fee includes green fee, cart, breakfast, box lunch, snacks and drinks, and a reception following the tournament with awards and great door prizes. Cost is $175 per player; $650 team of four. Register yourself as an individual or reg-ister a team. Awards will be presented in three flights, along with a Hole-In-One prize, Closest to the Pin, Longest Drive and much more. AT&T's 19th Hole Reception with delicious complimentary food and drink follows the tournament at the clubhouse. Great Sponsorship Opportunities Available including Beverage Cart Sponsorships ($750); Par 5 Golf Hole Sponsorships ($400); and Golf Hole Sponsorships ($250). Win a $1000 Cash Drawing!Tickets: $10 each; 3 for $20. Do NOT have to be present to win. To register as a team, individual or inquire about sponsorships and tickets, contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

37th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament is April 29

The Chamber is seeking nominations for both the 2015-2016 Small Business of the Year and the 2015-2016 Family Business of the Year. The small business award is presented to an outstanding business and Chamber member with 50 or less employees. The family business award is presented to a family-owned business that has operated for 25 or more years. A member may nominate their business or another member. Nominations must be received by Friday, April 15.

2014-2015 Award Recipients included The Little Ladybug / Carole Hudgins, Owner; Caldwell Electrical Contractors / Daniel Caldwell, President; Georgia Chair Company / Harry Bagwell, President; and Duncan Exterminating / Floyd & Sherry Duncan, Owners.

Award winners will be recognized at the Chamber's Annual Meeting & Gala on Thursday, May 19 at the Chattahoochee Country Club. For more information on award nominations, contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Business Awards Nominations108th Annual Meeting and Gala is May 19

The Greater Hall Chamber's 108th Annual Meeting & Gala is Thursday, May 19 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville. The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with an outdoor reception. The dinner program begins at 7:00 p.m. and includes an overview of the year's success and annual award presentations including the 2015-2016 Small Business of the Year, Family Business of the Year, Silver Shovel Awards, the prestigious W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award, Distinguished Citizen Award and the Community Service Award. The event is presented by AT&T and Gold Sponsors: abAVIATION, Carroll Daniel Construction, Jackson EMC and Liberty Utilities. Additional sponsorships available, including Table Sponsorships $1200 (seats 10). Individual tickets are $85; $150 Couple. Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115 or mmartin@ghcc.com

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

Economic DevelopmentPages 4-5

Upcoming EventsPage 6

Member AnnouncementsPage 10

VISION 2030Page 11

Welcome New MembersPage 12

Small Business of the MonthPage 12

Partners in EducationPages 14

Ribbon CuttingsPage 15

Save the Date

J A N U A R Y2 0 1 6

Thursday, January 14Business After Hours

Tuesday, January 19South Hall Business Coalition

Tuesday, January 26Small Business Workshop

Small Business WorkshopThe Greater Hall Chamber's Small Business Council and Brenau University present "Lean Principles for Small Business" on Tuesday, January 26 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at Brenau University (Jacobs Building, 340 Green Street in Gainesville). Sponsored by Small Business Access Partners and facilitated by Brenau's Dr. James Taylor, this workshop will cover ways to apply principles of continuous improvement to small business. Dr. Taylor will draw from such topics as Lean (based upon the Toyota Production System), Six Sigma, Quality and simple business analytics. Participants will gain knowledge that will help them improve their management approach, and more importantly, leave with some very specific actions in mind. Professor James Taylor is a 30 year veteran of the automotive industry. His fields of experience have included design engineering, sales, project management, quality and continuous improvement fields. He has been at Brenau since 2007 and is Assistant Professor of Management.

Cost: $15 Chamber Members; $30 Non-Members; Includes Light Breakfast. Reservations: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

Lean Principles for Small BusinessSponsored by Small Business Access Partners

Tuesday, January 268:30-11:30 am

Brenau University Gainesville / Jacobs Bldg$15 Chamber Members • $30 Non-Members

Breakfast • Door Prizes • Networking

The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Buy Local Safe & Green Expo returns this year bigger than ever with 70+ exhibitors, no admission fee, great networking and valuable business exposure. The Buy Local Safe & Green Expo is THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 4 at the Gainesville Civic Center from 2:00-7:00 p.m. Business After Hours with "A Taste of Gainesville" is 5:00-7:00 p.m. No Admission Fee and Free

Shuttle Service! Buy Local showcases businesses in Greater Hall County and is Northeast Georgia's Largest Trade Show Experience. Safe & Green pulls together industry representatives for connection to environmentally friendly services and safety initiatives for the workplace. Exhibitors will be able to utilize business-to-business services, while exchanging leads and developing professional relationships. Exhibit space is now available on a first come, first serve basis. Chamber Member Exhibit, $250; Non-Member, $500; Non-Profit, $150. Exhibits include an 8'x10' space, table, cloth, skirt and

chairs. Electricity is available for an additional fee. Great sponsorships at different levels are also available and include exhibit space, promotion and advertising. Download an Exhibitor Registration Form online at greaterhallchamber.com or contact Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

BUY LOCALSafe & Green EXPO

Thursday, February 4Gainesville Civic Center

2:00-7:00 pm BUY LOCAL EXPO5:00-7:00 pm Business After Hours & Taste of Gainesville

Free • Open to the Public • Networking • Giveaways

Exhibit Space

Now Available!

The economic impact of Gainesville-Hall County’s tourism industry reached a record high of $282.9 million in 2014, according to a report released earlier this year by the Georgia Department of Economic Develop-ment and U. S. Travel Association.

Lake Lanier Olympic Park's (LLOP) had an area impact of $7.8 million for the 12 months ending May 2015. With a big boost from the Pan Am Cham-pionships for flatwater canoe and kayak coming to LLOP next month, over $10 million is expected to be generated in 2016 by this venue alone. Leading up to the Pan American event, venue officials have been working to prepare the site, which played host to flatwater canoe/kayak and rowing events for the 1996 Olympics. Phase 1 projects totaled $1.1 million and was funded through SPLOST, an Appalachian Regional Commission grant and a corpo-rate sponsorship from Springer Mountain Farms. Proposed Phase 2 projects include work on the park side of the venue, and Phase 3 involves work on the actual boathouse. Adding to economic impact numbers will be use of the

venue for corporate functions, weddings, concerts and other events.

"We are grateful to be strategically located in one of the top tourism regions in the state," said Lee McMichael, new Gainesville CVB Manager. "The Hotel Motel Tax in the City of Gainesville continues to exceed all expectations." McMichael brings a strong background in tourism sales and is committed to growing an already thriving program. The recent addition of the Linwood Nature Preserve and the soon to open Highlands to Islands Trail complement the City's momentum, as well as Atlanta Botanical Garden, Gainesville, a 168-acre preserve that opened in spring 2015. The $20 million project includes vast gardens, a visitor’s center, amphitheater and pavilions.

“Hall County’s tourism economy continues to see annual growth and is ranked 12th out of Geor-gia’s 159 counties,” said Stacey Dickson, Director of the Lake Lanier CVB. The new, 1,500 Don Carter State Park opened in July 2013 in North Hall County, and a second development phase is currently under construction. Upon completion, the park will offer over 12 miles of horse trails, hiking trails, a visitor’s center, cabins, RV and camp sites, boat ramps, and a beach area/amenities on the shores of Lake Lanier. Lanier Islands kicks in a huge impact on our economy with Virgil Williams and his family taking over operations 10 years ago. The 1,100 acre resort has experienced tremendous growth with a complete overhaul of LanierWorld and the recent addition of Snow-World, a winter adventure park. Road Atlanta and its 2.54-mile International Grand Prix course attracts 320,000 visitors annually. Road Atlanta will host the 18th Petit Le Mans in October 2016, drawing some 150,000 visitors from around the world.

Economic Impact of Tourism

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

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VOLUME 21 ISSUE 10McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com

greaterhallchamber.com

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.

Chairman ElectLee HemmerThe Simpson Company

TreasurerDavid Abee, Regions Bank

Vice Chair, Economic DevelopmentBrian RochesterRochester & Associates

Vice Chair, Education Debora Mack, Volunteer

Vice Chair, GovernmentJohn BreakfieldBreakfield & Associates

Vice Chair, Marketing and CommunicationsKatie DubnikForum Communications

Vice Chair, Membership DevelopmentTony ParamoreGainesville Design Center

Vice Chair, South Hall CouncilAndy KalinauskasConditioned Air Systems

Vice Chair, Community DevelopmentLila Weaver, Brenau University

Chair, VISION 2030Davis WhiteLinkPoint AdvantageElizabeth Higgins, Exec Director

Co-Chairs, HALLmarkPaul ChambersAT&TJimbo FloydTurner Wood & Smith InsuranceMelissa TymchukNortheast Georgia Health System

Senior AdvisorRandall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost

Immediate Past ChairmanDavid Lee, Jackson EMC President & CEOKit DunlapGreater Hall Chamber of Commerce

Board of Directors 2015-2016

Associate Directors 2015-2016

Staff

ExecutiveKit Dunlap, President & CEOGerri Collins, Executive Assistant

Economic DevelopmentTim Evans, Vice PresidentShelley Davis, Vice President Existing IndustryAmanda Lewis, Project ManagerGarrett Wiley, Project Manager

Finance & OperationsDavid Umberson, Vice President Finance & HR

Membership DevelopmentMegan Martin, Vice President, DevelopmentKara Tate, Vice President, Membership Sales

EducationDana Miller, Vice President

Government AffairsGarrett Wiley, Project Manager

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

Chamber Officers 2016-2017

ChairmanLee HemmerThe Simpson Company Chairman ElectPerry BarnettRushton & Company TreasurerJimbo FloydTurner, Wood & Smith Vice Chair, Economic DevelopmentBrian RochesterRochester & Associates Vice Chair, Education Deborah MackCommunity Volunteer

Vice Chair, Government AffairsJohn Breakfield Breakfield & Associates

Vice Chair, MarketingTate O'RoukeUniversity of North Georgia

Vice Chair, Membership Katie DubnikForum Communications

Vice Chair, South Hall CouncilAndy KalinauskasConditioned Air Systems Vice Chair, Community DevelopmentLila WeaverBrenau University

Chair, VISION 2030Melissa TymchukNortheast Georgia Health System

Executive Director, VISION 2030Elizabeth Higgins

Co-Chairs, HALLmark 2015-2020Paul Chambers AT&T

Randall FrostStewart Melvin & Frost

David Lee Jackson EMC Senior AdvisorDixie TrueloveTruelove Dairy

Immediate Past ChairmanBrian DanielCaroll Daniel Construction Co.

Greater Hall Chamber President & CEOKit Dunlap

See newly elected Greater Hall Chamber Board Members on page 5.

The following individuals have been elected by the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors to serve as Officers, July 1, 2016 - June 30, 2017:

www.jacksonemc.com

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Annual Transportation Forum

Over 200 people attended the Chamber's Transportation Forum in March (Above, L-R): Srikanth Yamala, GHMPO; Brent Cook, GDOT District 1 Engineer; Emily Dunn, 9th District GDOT Board Member; Event Sponsors Terry Evans, Independence Bank of Georgia, and Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates. Not pictured, Russell McMurry, Commissioner, GDOT. (Left): Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber, and Dr. Bonita Jacobs, President, University of North Georgia. For the full Transportation Report 2016, go to ghcc.com/news/

King's Hawaiian Plant Tour

King’s Hawaiian recently hosted a tour for community leaders of the Oakwood bakery. The company employs 650 people and has three production lines running with infrastructure already prepared for a fourth line. 70% of King’s Hawaiian sweet roll volume is produced at the Oakwood facility. kingshawaiian.com

1/4 Page Ad2 columns 4.4167 x5"

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Tri-Chamber Networking EventJoin members of the Forsyth, Greater Hall and Gwinnett County Chambers of Commerce on Tuesday, June 7 from 5-7:30 pm for Northeast Georgia's Greatest Networking Experience – Business After Hours at Legacy Point at Lanier Islands. Enjoy delicious food and drink by Lanier Islands and drawings for outstanding door prizes. Cost: $5 chamber members; $15 non-members (includes 2 drink tickets per person). The Tri-Chamber event is expecting to draw a large crowd and offers FANTASTIC Sponsorship Opportunities. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com

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April 5, 2016 • A

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ent to The Times

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Newly Elected Board MembersThe following seven individuals have been elected to serve a three-year term on the Chamber's Board of Directors beginning July 1, 2016 and ending June 30, 2019.

Charlotte Atkins joined The Times as Publisher in 2014. Charlotte started working for newspapers at 13 as a sports stringer for her hometown newspaper in Alabama and for the next three-plus decades spent her career in newsrooms on both the East and West Coasts. A graduate of Auburn University, has added new magazines and events to The Times' slate of products as well as Advanced Media Solutions, a digital marketing agency. Charlotte serves on the boards of directors

for United Way of Hall County, Habitat for Humanity, Gainesville-Hall ’96, and is a member of the Gainesville Rotary Club.

Brett Fowler is a Vice President and Partner of Turner Wood & Smith Insurance, specializing in individual and group employee benefits. He joined the agency after graduating from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Brett has served on Gainesville's Downtown Master Plan Steering Committee and many boards and committees including: Past President of the Gainesville Jaycees, current Campaign Chair of United Way of Hall County, current Chair

of the Main Street Advisory Board, and the Georgia Mountain Food Bank. He is a Chamber Associate Director and a graduate of Leadership Hall County.

Joy Griffin is President and CPO of United Way of Hall County. Joy served as Vice President of Resource Development for United Way since 2010 and was named president in March 2015. Joy formerly served as the Community Manager for the American Cancer Society and is a graduate of Georgia State University with a bachelor of arts in communications and philosophy. She is currently serving as the president-elect for the Kiwanis Club of Gainesville and serves on

the Chamber's Marketing Committee, VISION 2030 Wisdom Project and is a past Associate Director. She is a graduate of Leadership Hall County.

Caroline Lewallen is Agritourism Coordinator for Jaemor Farms heading up marketing, farm education programs and special events. She is a graduate of UGA with a degree in Agricultural Education and received her Masters from Texas A&M. Caroline worked for the Georgia Peanut Commission, the University of Georgia Extension Service and completed a agricultural fellowship in Washington, D.C., with Congressman Jack Kingston. She is the Hall County Farm

Bureau Young Farmer Chair, Vice President of the Georgia Agritourism Association and serves on the board for the Agricultural Economics Association of Georgia.

Philip Wilheit, Jr. is Partner/Management Sales with Wilheit Packaging, managing online marketing and sales. He is a licensed real estate agent with Don Carter Realty and owner of TargetMatz, a patented educational game that he designed. Philip has served on several political campaigns including the finance team for Governor Nathan Deal. He is a graduate of Mercer University and has a MBA from Georgia State. Philip is former chair of the Georgia Department

of Natural Resources, the North Georgia Mountain Authority, United Way of Hall County, Leadership Georgia Board of Trustees, and the John Jarrard Foundation.

Josh Schlieman is a partner and wealth advisor for Sullivan & Schlieman Wealth Management and manages the Gainesville branch. Prior to forming Sullivan & Schlieman, he was vice president at SunTrust Investment Services. Josh graduated magna cum laude from The University of Georgia with a degree in finance and is a Certified Financial Planner. He is president of the board for Habitat for Humanity Hall County and is a member of United Way of Hall

County's Young Leaders Society. He is a graduate of Leadership North Fulton, Leadership Hall County, and is a member of the Rotary Club of Gainesville.

Tate Izlar O'Rouke graduated from the University of Georgia with degrees in Political Science and Telecommunication Arts. She began her career with the National Corn Growers Association before returned to Georgia and worked for UGA's Terry College of Business focusing on their annual fundraising efforts to alumni. She was most recently Regional Director for U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson, and in 2015, became Director of Economic Development at the University

of North Georgia focusing on advancing the college’s economic initiatives. Tate is a member of the Gainesville Rotary Club and a graduate of Leadership Hall County.

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

Our Business Is to Help Your BusinessWe can help you gain a financial advantage with a strategy that fits your business. Together, we’ll explore solutions from retirement plans to insurance strategies to investment options and banking solutions.

To learn more, call or visit your financial advisor

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Agribusiness Award BreakfastThe Annual Agribusiness Awards Breakfast, presented by the Chamber and the Hall County Cooperative Extension, is Tuesday, April 19 at 7:30 a.m. at the North Hall Community Center. The breakfast is complimentary and open to the public. The program seeks to increase recognition and appreciation of agribusiness and the agricultural community in Hall County with awards including: Friend of Agribusiness (2015 Recipient: Sammy Smith); Outstanding Agribusiness (2015 Recipient: Lanny Welding); Farmer of the Year (2015 Recipient: Ann Jones); Ag Hall of Fame (2015 Recipient, inducted posthumously: Dr. Rick Hinton). The event is presented by Jackson EMC. Additional sponsors include AgGeorgia Farm Credit, Cargill, Carroll Daniel Construction, Crystal Farms, Fieldale Farms, Hall County Farm Bureau, Hall County Parks & Leisure, Hall County Soil & Water Conservation District, Jaemor Farms, Purina Animal Nutrition and United Community Bank. Breakfast Reservations: Hall County Cooperative Extension, 770-535-8293.

Biz Card Ad2 columns 4.4167 x2.0"

APRIL 2016Wednesday, April 6Healthcare Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, April 12Small Business Seminar"Creating a Sustainable Market Advantage" Chris Reese, Cirrus Business Group and Adjunct Professor, Brenau MBA Program7:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Chamber

Tuesday, April 12Ambassadors Council3:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Cafe

Wednesday, April 13Network Over Coffee8:30 - 9:30 a.m. – Steak 'n Shake Oakwood

Thursday, April 14Leadership Hall County8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Thursday, April 14Business After HoursSponsored by The Louver Shop5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.1215 Palmour Drive in Gainesville

Tuesday, April 19Youth Leadership Hall Graduation8:15 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. – Montara Farm

Tuesday, April 19VISION 2030 Board of Directors11:30 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, April 20Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, April 20Lunch 'n Learn12:00 p.m. - 1:-00 p.m.Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood

Thursday, April 21Chamber Executive Committee8:30 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, April 21Blue Zone Community Summit7:00 p.m. – Brenau Downtown Center

Tuesday, April 26South Hall Business Coalition"University of North Georgia Center for Clinical Simulation" 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.University of North Georgia GainesvilleCE-PA Building

Wednesday, April 27Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Midland Station Coffee Company in Gainesville

Thursday, April 28Chamber Board of Directors12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.Gainesville Civic Center

Friday, April 2937th Annual Hackers Holiday Golf Tournament10:00 a.m. Shotgun StartLanier Islands - Legacy on Lanier

MAY 2016

Thursday, May 5Business After Hours5:00 - 7:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville

Thursday, May 19Annual Meeting & Gala6:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club

Events Online: GreaterHallChamber.com

Thank You Chamber Event SponsorsAgGeorgia Farm Credit

AT&TAccessWDUN

CargillCarroll Daniel Construct.

Chattahoochee BankCrystal FarmsFieldale FarmsGeorgia Power

Hall County Farm Bureau

Hall Co Parks & LeisureHall Co Soil & Water

Halski SystemsHighland Mountain Water

Jackson EMCJacobs MediaJaemor Farms Lanier Islands

Liberty UtilitiesMilton Martin Honda

Milton Martin Toyota Montara Farm

Purina Animal NutritionRed Clay InteractiveSigns by Tomorrow

Sullivan & SchliemanThe Louver Shop

United Community BankUniversity of North GAWSI Digital Rainmakers

ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS

Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967Since 1967

Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter

984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com

870 Grove Street in Gainesville 770-536-9852 www.mcgaritys.com

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4 Aces Real Estate Kathy Pilotti 310 Academy St. NW Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 530-4906 -Real Estate kathypilottihomes.com Angle Automotive Vic Holiday 101 Hillcrest Drive Gainesville, GA 30501(678) 971-5969 -Auto Repair & Service angleautomotive.com

Atlas Business CenterChris Carter 2445 Hilton Dr., #100 Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-5355 -Moving & Storage atlasbizcenter.com

Benchmark Physical Therapy – BraseltonMegan Fusco5415 Thompson Mill RdHoschton, GA 30548(770) 965-3508-Physical Therapybenchmarkpt.com

Benchmark Physical Therapy – North HallCorrie Cable1100 Sherwood Park Dr. NE, Suite 140Gainesville, GA 30501(770) 297-7750-Physical Therapybenchmarkpt.com

Benchmark Physical Therapy – North Hall Darla Howard3319 Thompson Br Rd Gainesville, GA 30506(678) 207-1999-Physical Therapybenchmarkpt.com

Bo HairstonP.O. Box 7931 Gainesville, GA 30504(678) 776-1354 -Individual Member hairstonco.com

Bridgeway Hospice Meredith Marlowe 1731 Meriweather DriveSuite 101 Watkinsville, GA 30677 (706) 546-0286-Healthcare bridgewayhospice.org

Candis Stephens5330 Raintree Trail Oakwood, GA 30566 (770) 287-7881-Individual Member Chef Kern, Inc. Denise Chiasson 3060 Keith Bridge RoadSuite 8 Cumming, GA 30041 (770) 889-8800 - Restaurant & Catering chefkern.com

Chris Leming State Farm Chris Leming 3631 Explorer TrailSuite AOakwood, GA 30566(678) 707-7108 -Insurancechrisleminginsurance.com

Clean-Way, Inc. Carlton Crawford 1610 Gibbs Drive Gainesville, GA 30507 (770) 536-9258 -Disaster Recovery cleanwayga.com

Cochran Brothers Electric Co., Inc. Kay Cochran P.O. Box 2956 Gainesville, GA 30503 (770) 534-2584 -Electrical Contractorscochranbrotherselectric.com

Craddock Insurance Services Chris Craddock 2206 Browns Bridge Rd Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 450-6625-Insurance mygaagent.com

Easy B's KitchenTimothy Broxton 1547 Riverside Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (404) 376-1879 -Restaurant & Catering easybkitchen.com

Embroidered Impressions Lisa Powers 2721 Faith Industrial Dr Suite A Buford, GA 30518 (770) 932-8000 -Promo / Embroidery embroideredimpressions.com

Farmers Insurance Chris Taylor 5749 Old Winder HwySuite D Braselton, GA 30517 (678) 888-5818 -Insurance farmersagent.com

Terry Humphrey PlumbingTerry Humphrey 2140 Hilton Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 718-1063 -Plumbing terryhumphreyplumbing.com Georgia TrussBrandon Dyer 2323 Murphy Blvd Gainesville, GA 30504 (770) 534-8164 -Mfg / Construction gatruss.com

Hope West Mann430 Ridgewood Avenue Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 561-9895 -Individual Membersimplywithintent.com

Hop's Kitchen Mark Hopkins 999 Chestnut St, SE Gainesville, GA 30501(770) 533-3807 -Restaurant & Catering

Hulsey's Hauling and Logistics Chase Hulsey 621 Washington StreetSuite A-4 Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 936-4719 -Transport & Trucking Jack Clarke3412 Red Tip Landing Gainesville, GA 30504 678-696-8262 -Individual Member Jeff Butler999 Chestnut St, #30 Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 250-9994 -Individual Member

Keller Williams Lanier Partners / Dani Brown 4812 Pawnee Village Gainesville, GA 30506 (706) 455-3076 -Real Estate housesonlanier.net

Keller Williams Lanier Partners / Erica Nassar 631 Dawsonville Hwy Gainesville, GA 30501 404-863-8941 -Real Estateericanassar.com

Keller Williams Lanier Partners/Kristima Jaume631 Dawsonville HwyGainesville, GA 30501 (404) 375-4677 -Real Estate

Keller Williams Lanier Partners / Laura Carter 631 Dawsonville Hwy Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 316-8904 -Real Estate lauracartersells.com

Kytle Engineering & Land Surveying, LLCAl Kytle5367 Hwy 52Gillsville, GA 30543 (404) 317-1544 - Engineers / Surveyorskytle-els.com

Labor of Love Adult CareKaren Romaine Thomas 1000 Peachtree Industri-al Blvd, Suite 6143 Suwanee, GA 30024 (678) 613-1412 -Medical / Home Health laborofloveadultcare.com

Lee Darragh, DA, Northeast Judicial Circuit of Georgia6017 Walden Pond RdGainesville, GA 30506 (770) 531-6965 -Individual Member

Lemonade Makers Kelsey Bishop 1175 Thompson Bridge Road, Suite B Gainesville, GA 30501 (470) 228-3410 - Non-Profit, Retail shoplemonademakers.com

Logo Surfing Promo-tional Items & Apparel Haruko Julie Watkins 30 S Broad Street Winder, GA 30680 (800) 728-7192 - Retail / Promo Itemslogosurfing.com

Mark Atlanta Brooks Clay 130 Krog Street, Suite C Atlanta, GA 30307 (404) 719-9825 -Event Design markatlanta.com

Midland Station Coffee Company Tony Jonivitch 109 Green St, NE Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-5330 - Restaurant & Catering facebook.com/midland-stationcoffeeco

Mount Vernon Exploratory School Connie Daniels 4844 Jim Hood Road Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 983-1759 -School mves.hallco.org

My Brainy Tutor Jill Putnam 4072 Hidden Hollow Dr. Apt B

Gainesville, GA 30506 (706) 949-9682 -Educational Tutor

North Georgia Heart Foundation Daniel Thompson 3820 Mundy Mill Road Oakwood, GA 30566 (678) 717-3648 -Non-Profit pulseoftomorrow.org

North Georgia Net-work Cooperative, Inc. Donna Unger 6135 Hwy 115, Suite 1A Clarkesville, GA 30523 (706) 754-5323 -Non-Profit ngn.coop

O'Charley's Chris Kline 1711 Browns Bridge RoadGainesville, GA 30501(770) 534-2455 -Restaurant & Catering ocharleys.com

Ora Salon & Blow Dry Bar Kristen Wallace 4211 McEver RoadSuite 205 Oakwood, GA 30566 (678) 971-1980 -Spa / Salonorasalonandblowdrybar.com Pig Tales Lake Lanier Dale Ozaki 6598 Lights Ferry Road Flowery Branch, 30542 (678) 828-7676 -Restaurant & Catering pigtaleslakelanier.com

Poultry Times345 Green St, NWGainesville, GA 30501(770) 536-2476-Trade Publication / Newspaperpoultrytimes.com

Pre K Preparatory Academy Arbendette Van 3330 Ivey Ridge Road Buford, GA 30519 (707) 704-5169 - School / Childcare

New Members Continued on page 12

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The Chamber's 2016 Membership Recruitment Campaign exceeded its goal of 72 new members by 10 for a total of 82 new members. Terry Merck, American Yazaki Corporation, was top recruiter and won $1000 cash. Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial Corporation, was second top individual recruiter and led the winning team that brought in 22 new members. In second place was the team led by Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, with 18 new members. Other team captains included Erin Langford, HTI Employment Solu-tions, Cassidy Collier, Greater Hall Chamber, and Darryl Workman, BrandBank. Members of the winning HOMErunners Team included Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial; Dana Chapman, The Guest House; Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty; Kelsey Woodard, Marel and Robin Halstead and Kemie West, Greater Hall Chamber. These team members received two season passes to Lanier Islands Waterpark, two Gwinnett Braves Tickets, and night stay at the Legacy Lodge at Lanier Islands. Details: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206 x 111.

Terry MerckAmerican Yazaki CorpTop Member Recruiter

Sarita MaderaHomestar FinancialTop Team Captain

Morgan HouseLake Lanier Olympic Park - 2nd Top Recruiter

www.UNG.edu/mba

• Will White was named President and CEO of United Community Bank fol-lowing the retirement of Dick Valentine, who served the banking industry locally for over 35 years. White will supervise operations of all five UCB branches in the Hall County area. ucbi.com• United Way of Hall County announc-es Joy Griffin as President & CPO and Rachel Spain as VP of Resource Devel-opment, Joy replaces Jackie Wallace who has served the organization since 2007. unitedwayhallcounty.org• The Adams Companies announced Debbie Cofer as General Manager of Adams Transfer & Storage, directing the household and commercial moving and warehousing divisions. She has been an executive level manager with the organization for 20 years. Adams Trans-fer & Storage was founded in 1903 and is among the oldest family-owned moving companies in the U.S., honored twice as Georgia’s Family Business of the Year. adamstransfer.com • Buffalo Wild Wing's Community Day is April 13 and will donate 10% of sales to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Hall County. 1185 Dawsonville Highway in Gainesville. buffalowildwings.com• Amanda Wilbanks, owner of Gaines-ville-based Southern Baked Pie Com-pany (formerly Buttermilk Pie), received the University of Georgia's 2016 Flavor of Georgia Award with her caramel pecan pie! buttermilkpieco.com• Among metro areas of less than 200,000 in population, Site Selection ranked Gainesville-Hall County 3rd in the Nation and #1 in Georgia for the number of new and expanded economic development projects in 2015. • The North Georgia-based accounting firm Rushton & Company has launched Rushton Wealth Management (RWM), offering financial, investment and retirement planning. Chamber Work-force Development Task Force Chair Perry Barnett, CPA, a longtime partner with the company, is leading RWM and Dawn Parks, CFP®, CLU, is Director of Financial Services. RWM is partner-ing with 1st Global Capital Corporation, a broker-dealer that provides exclusive support to CPA, tax and estate planning firms. rushtonwealth.management• Tim Broxton's Easy B’s Kitchen provides custom catering services throughout Northeast Georgia. Order a boxed lunch full of fresh ingredients delivered for your next meeting or pick up at their kitchen, located in the former Elks Lodge building on Riverside Drive in Gainesville. easybkitchen.com

• Lanier Islands hosts the popular 2016 In-Water Boat Show on the resort's shores on April 14-17. The event draws an average of 4,000 visitors each year to LanierWorld – the resort’s beach and boardwalk entertainment district – with new top-of-the-line boats, live entertain-ment, featured exhibitors, fun in the sun and so much more. lanierislands.com• Governor Deal named Hall County District 1 Commissioner Kathy Cooper to the Department of Family and Chil-dren Services (DFCS) State Advisory Board, the agency responsible for pro-tecting Georgia's children. Cooper and her husband John operate a cattle and chicken operation as well as Cooper's Christmas Tree Farm in Braselton. • Gainesville Theatre Alliance presents the comedy, The Philadelphia Story, April 5-16 at the University of North Georgia Gainesville’s Ed Cabell Theatre at 3850 Mundy Mill Road in Oakwood. For tickets, call 678-717-3624 or buy online: gainesvilleTHEATREalliance.org• Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) was ranked Georgia’s #1 Hospital for the third consecutive year, and among the top 10 in the nation according to a recent study by Care-Chex. The study also rated NGMC #1 in Georgia for Overall Hospital Care, Stroke Care, Women’s Health and Car-diac Care. NGMC is rated Georgia’s #1 Heart Hospital. nghs.com• Plant Manager Mike Holman an-nounced Baldor Electric Company in Flowery Branch was presented with the organization's 2015 President’s Safety Award. The Hall County location has 300 employees and was selected from over 15 Baldor manufacturing plants in North America for achieving zero days away, zero restricted cases, a zero DART rate and a zero incident rate in 2015 and 546 days without injury. The Flower Branch facility opened in 1977 and produces variable speed AC and DC industrial motors as well as other special-ly engineered motors. baldorabb.com• The Gainesville Jaycees recognized Philip “Phip” Wilheit Jr., Wilheit Packaging, and Jessica Butler, Gateway Domestic Violence Center, as Young Man and Young Woman of the Year.• Road Atlanta announces #GRI-DLIFE South as the newest addition to the 2016 lineup – a high-energy, high-speed weekend that brings music and motorsports together (August 26-28) for a totally immersive motorsports festival by day and an electronic music showcase by night, featuring some of the top artists in the country. roadatlanta/gridlife.com

• Boys & Girls Club of Hall County's Rubber Duck Derby is 11-3:00 pm on Saturday, May 14 at Clarks Bridge Park on Lake Lanier. Over 2,000 people are expected to watch 21,000 ducks race for Hall County’s kids. The all-day FREE family event will be featuring food trucks, live entertainment, bounce hous-es, face painting, and fun for the whole family. The ducks will drop at 2:30pm and race to the finish for a chance to win $10,000 plus many more awesome prizes! boysgirlsclubs.com• Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia honored Julia w. Cromartie as the 2016 Gainesville Woman of Distinction for her example of excellence and accom-plishments in the community. gshg.org• Boy Scouts of America’s Northeast Georgia Council honored the Rev. Bill Coates, senior pastor at Gainesville First Baptist Church; Mike Giles, president of the Georgia Poultry Federation; and Dr. Dan Winston, heart surgeon at North-east Georgia Medical Center.• Gainesville-Hall County Community Council on Aging will honor long serv-ing Gainesville City Council members Robert Hamrick and Myrtle Figueras

with its Quality of Life Awards at the Annual Dinner on May 12 at 6pm at the Gainesville Civic Center. Figueras and Hamrick were chosen as recipients for their commitment to making life better for the residents and businesses of Gainesville-Hall County. Sponsor Op-portunities & Tickets: Carol Williams, 678-482-5071. chwilliams24@gmail.com• Seth and Cathy Vining were named Georgia CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) State Volunteers of the Year and the Hall-Dawson CASA led by Connie Stephens was winner of the state Established Affiliate Award of Excellence. halldawsoncasa.org• Right at Home of Gainesville Fran-chisee Bill Youngblood received a Best of Home Care Provider Award, based on client satisfaction and is now ranked among the top home care providers in the U.S. Youngblood started Right at Home in 2009 and offers in-home per-sonal care and assistance to seniors and disabled adults who want to continue to live independently. rightathome.net

GOT NEWS?Email: kwest@ghcc.com

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Premier Printing was established in 1989, specializing in offset printing. The business has grown into a manufacturer printing plant that serves the Southeast. In 2009, Donna Free and her husband, Steve, acquired Georgia Printing Company, owned by Joe Biddy, and formed Premier Georgia Printing, Inc. The company provides

single to full color printing both digital and offset for brochures, presentation folders, forms, catalogs, booklets, business cards, letterhead, envelopes and full line of labels. Services also include a design and graphics department and a copy service. In 1992, the company added Flexographic Label Division to serve the area's poultry industry. In 2010, Premier added a division for printing and finishing of folding carton packaging. Using full color Heidelberg printing presses, they are able to produce high quality wrap around sleeves, tray inserts, and folding cartons to showcase and protect a variety of products. Premier is Food Safety Certified for food service industries providing the highest level of sanitation and food safety. As part of their ongoing commitment to the community, Premier supports many local Individual non-profits as well as educational and athletic programs in area schools. Premier Georgia Printing, Inc., 5362 McEver Road, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-287-1337. premiergeorgia.com

Small Business of the MonthPremier Georgia Printing

Chamber Small Business of the Month Premier Georgia Printing (L-R): Joe Biddy, James Spears, Judy Fricks, Donna Free, Ted Jannakos and Linda Wright.

www.unitedwayhallcounty.org

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(L-R): Tom Pope III, Marion T. Pope, Jr. and Jonathan A. Pope at Business After Hours at Hasty Pope's new office located at the historic and newly renovated Thurman House on Green Street in Gainesville.

Networking at Hasty Pope

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New Members, Continued from page 8

Quantum Commodities Christopher Traylor 1250 Industrial Blvd Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 885-6887 -Wholesaler quantumcommodities.com

Restroom Stalls and AllJim Southard III999 Chestnut St, Suite 16Gainesville, GA 30501(844) 817-8255-Commercial Restroom Accessoriesrestroomstallsandall.com

Southeast Compliance Solutions Andy Holbrook 87 Nature Trail Road Dawsonville, GA 30534 (770) 900-7450 -Consulting scshelp.org

Sperry Van Ness Heather Taylor4433 Plum Frost CtOakwood, GA 30566(678) 989-8830

-Commercial Real Estatesvn.com

Suzanne Willis PropertiesSuzanne Willis 631 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 (706) 525-0912 -Real Estate suzannewillisproperties.com

The Buffaloe Group LLC Shawn Buffaloe 811 Washington St. SW Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-0090 - Financial Servicesbuffaloecpa.com

The Cook & Company Tiffany Battle 3120 Frontage Road Gainesville, GA 30504 (678) 207-1509 -Real Estate/Constructionthecookandcompany.com

The Dari SpotCindy Rainwater 4841 Cleveland Hwy Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 983-3321 -Restaurant & Catering

The Norton Agency Nicole Columbo 434 Green Street Gainesville, GA 30501(727) 272-0832 -Real Estate

The Venue at Friendship SpringsJon Wayne 7340 Friendship Springs Boulevard Flowery Branch, GA 30542 (770) 316-1408 -Event Facility/Planning thevenueatfriendshipsprings.com

Wayne Stradley 3307 Marina View Way Gainesville, GA 30506 (770) 519-7057 -Individual Member

Wheeler/BrandScott Meadows 1960 Satellite Blvd.Suite 1300 Duluth, GA 30097 (770) 476-4801 -Real Estate / Developer wheelerbrand.com

Come and celebrate the Grand Opening of The Louver Shop in Gainesville at Business After Hours on Thursday, April 14 from 5:00-7:00 pm. Enjoy live Jazz music, gift giveaways, great Cajun food, wine, beer and cocktails. The Louver Shop is the largest shutter manufacturer in the United States. Serving 71 territories in 39 states, The Louver Shop provides custom shutters, blinds and shades to homeowners. Located at 1215 Palmour Drive in Gainesville. Business After Hours is $5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Door Prizes and Cash Prize Drawing! Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

Business After Hours on April 14

SyfanLogistics.com | 855.287.8485 | 770.287.8485 | Gainesville, GA

For the second year in a row, Syfan Logistics, a Gainesville-based, full-scale logistics management company, has been honored for its outstanding performance with the United Parcel Service’s (UPS) 2015 Peak Season Expedited Operations Power 5 Champion Award.

Syfan Logistics earned the highest service-performance rating of all carriers in the national UPS network of logistics providers, as well as logging the second most total miles. This was the fourth peak season that Syfan Logistics has partnered with UPS, the world’s largest package delivery company.

Syfan Logistics employees, left to right, Justin Hood, Jon Couch, James Syfan, Brian Miller, and Josh Adam accepted the award from UPS.

“ We enjoy a strong partnership with UPS,” Syfan Logistics President Greg Syfan said. “We know how important the peak holiday season is to UPS. It means a lot to our company that UPS trusts us with its logistics needs in that busy time.”

Syfan Logistics Earns UPS Top Performance Award for Second Straight Year

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Ashleigh Kovach (center), Client Service Manager, and Jess Odell (right) Recruiter, Spherion Staffing Professionals assist a job applicant at the Chamber's Job Fair on March 23 at the Gainesville Civic Center. The event was open to the public with 60+ employers and hiring agencies on site. Over 1,300 attended meeting HR professionals and completing job applications onsite.

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(L-R): Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions; Jay Kelly, Signs by Tomorrow (sponsor); Attorneys David Dickerson and Madeline Wirt, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker; Al Trembley, WSI Digital Rainmakers (sponsor). The next seminar – Creating a Sustainable Market Advantage is Tues., April 12 from 7:45-9:00 am at the Chamber and will be presented by Chris Reese, President of Cirrus Business Group and Adjunct Professor with Brenau University's Oxford Entrepreneurial MBA program. Chris has over 18 years of experience in organization development and leading teams to success. Join Chris as he shares the 4 keys that make the difference between companies playing catch up and those setting the pace. You will also walk away with tangible tools to implement in your organization immediately to start producing the results you want. 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: alewis@ghcc.com

Small Business Seminar

Over 75 businesses joined the Chamber during the recent drive. New Chamber Members at a breakfast sponsored by HTI Employment Solutions (L-R): Anne Catron, HTI Employment Solutions (event sponsor); Chamber Membership Chair Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint; Kristen Wallace, Ora Salon and Blow Dry Bar; Brandon Dyer, Georgia Truss; Taylor Borgerding, Ora Salon and Blow Dry Bar.

New Member Breakfast

Job Fair draws over 1,300

770.287.7800 | RushtonandCompany.com

As Firm Administrator of Rushton since January of this year, Cindy Campbell, CPA puts her vast experience to work for the firm and our clients every day. She is involved in all phases of administration, personnel, finances, facilities and marketing. Cindy works closely with the partners on firm-wide policy- setting, problem-solving and decision-making while directing the day-to-day operations of the firm.

Cindy came to Rushton after working in government as a county manager and chief financial officer and holding a staff accountant position with a local CPA firm.

While Cindy has an impressive list of professional certifications, leadership roles and recognition, she is probably most proud of her other job as chief cheerleader for her teenaged daughter and son’s school teams at North Hall. An athlete herself, she always has a fully packed gym bag full of equipment in the trunk of her car.

Rushton is proud to welcome Cindy Campbell to our team.

Because it’s not only what we do, but why we do it.

ACCOUNTING & BUSINESS ADVISORS | CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

Rushton

Cindy Campbell, CPA

A true team player. It’s what we do.

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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

As part of their Class Service Project, Leadership Hall County class members volunteered at Challenge Child & Friends at Ada’s Playground, built in memory of a former student at the nonprofit preschool. The Leadership class joined dozens of other volunteers, and their efforts eliminated thousands in construction costs, making the project a reality. challengedchild.org

Leadership Hall CountyLeadership Hall County

By bringing the Blue Zone Community Summit to Gaines-ville-Hall County on April 21, we hope to inspire individuals and the entire community to take action and engage in our health and wellness. The Chamber's VISION 2030 leader-ship is hosting the Blue Zone Community Summit on Thurs-day, April 21 at the Brenau Downtown Center. National Geographic Fellow and New York Times best selling author, New York Times best selling author, New York TimesDan Buettner (bluezones.com) is the featured speaker and will help us understand how to live healthier, happier and longer. 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 Community Summit is Open to the Public. Tickets are $25 each. Limited seating. Visit vision2030.org/blue-zones now to reserve your spot!vision2030.org/blue-zones now to reserve your spot!vision2030.org/blue-zones

Vision for a Healthier Community

Elizabeth HigginsElizabeth HigginsExecutive Director, Executive Director, VISION 2030

(L-R): Jullie King, Jullie King, Jullie KingThe Longstreet Clinic;Katie Parrish and Steven Kronenberg, Steven Kronenberg, Steven KronenbergUniversity of North Georgia;Chad Bolton, Chad Bolton, Chad BoltonNortheast Georgia Health System. The Chamber's Healthcare Committee recently heard an update on the University of North Georgia’s College of Health, including the new Center for Clinical Simulation, presented by Steven Kronenberg, Development Officer, College of Education & College of Health Sciences & Professions and Katie Parrish, Director, UNG’s Center for Clinical Simulation. The South Hall Business Coalition will visit the Center on Tuesday, April 26 from 8-:00 - 9:00 a.m. Details: Megan Martin, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mmartin@ghcc.com

New Center for Clinical SimulationNew Center for Clinical Simulation

(L-R): Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Packaging; Joe Biddy, Premier Georgia Printing;Joe Biddy, Premier Georgia Printing;Joe BiddySteve Gilliam, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles;Steve Gilliam, Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles;Steve Gilliam and Jim Mathis, Jr. were recognized as top leadership volunteers for the 1996 Olympics at the Chamber's March Board of Directors meeting. A presentation was given by Morgan House, Manager of the Lake Lanier Olympic Park, Manager of the Lake Lanier Olympic Park, Manager highlighting construction and renovation at the venue as well as the upcoming Pan Am Championships (May 19-22) and Rio on the Water (August 5), a celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the '96 Olympics and the kickoff of the 2016 Summer Olympics. lakelanierolympicvenue.org

'96 Olympic Volunteer Leaders'96 Olympic Volunteer Leaders

The student's Etiquette and Quality of Life program began at Chattahoochee County Club where the class learned writing skills from Juli Clay, Brenau University,County Club where the class learned writing skills from Juli Clay, Brenau University,County Club where the class learned writing skills from Juli Clayand etiquette tips from Connie Davis, Tastefully Growing Up. Carla Walker, Whelchel Carla Walker, Whelchel Carla WalkerDunlap Jarrard & Walker, taught a ball room dance class. At Clarks Bridge Park, the class heard from members of the Hall County Sheriff’s Office Dive Team. Corporal Jason Roberson, Nation’s Top Boating Officer of the Year with the Wildlife Resources Jason Roberson, Nation’s Top Boating Officer of the Year with the Wildlife Resources Jason RobersonDivision, spoke about the DNR and its role it plays keeping Lake Lanier a safe place for recreation and fishing. Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, and Jim O’Dell, junior national team coach, US national dragon boat team, spoke to the class and gave a tour of the venue. The day ended with the students competing in Dragon Boat races. Thank you Chattahoochee County Club for your continued support!

Youth Leadership HallYouth Leadership Hall

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Gainesville Mayor Danny Dunagan and SAFFT Executive Director Ashley Anderson cut ribbon for Supporting Adoption and Foster Families Together, Inc.(SAFFT), a

organization that's mission is to protect children, rebuild families, and empower caregivers. SAFFT’s success and ability to serve families in crisis has grown to accommodate the need in Forsyth, Cherokee, Dawson, Hall, Gwinnett, and Fulton counties. SAFFT has created an environment like nowhere else in Georgia to protect society’s most neglected and abused children. These children are served through the Family Life Center that provides family and sibling visitations, a clothing and resource closet, scholarships, and a powerful life skills and mentoring program that builds them up. 430 Prior St, SW, Gainesville GA, 30501. 770-886-9505. safft.org

SAFFT Adoption & Foster Families

Dianne Hicks cuts the ribbon at Keller Williams Lanier Partners to celebrate their 2016 members of the Chamber, Pictured: Pam Prescott, Tanisha Cropper, Vickie Thomas, Dani Brown, Angie Smart,

Kathy Fauscett, Pat Burke, Laura M. Carter, Brenda Burke, Dianne Hicks, Judy Paul, Suzanne Willis, Shelley Shope, Ana Campa and Judy Presley. With over 160 agents, Keller Williams Realty has a heart for their agents. KW gives their agents careers worth having, businesses worth owning, and lives worth living. KW Realty's Profit Share Program shared over $677 million among their agents as of 2015, and the KW Cares Program helps members when tragedy and disaster occur. KW Lanier Partners has been serving Gainesville since 2001 and launched a Commercial Division in 2008. KWLP also has an Exclusive Luxury Home Division and serves the community with agents that are Home Ownership Program Specialist in grants and programs offered in Georgia. 631 Dawsonville Hwy, Gainesville. 770-503-7070. kwlanier.yourkwoffice.com

Keller Williams Lanier Partners

Deana Martin-Owens, Founder, cuts ribbon for Cry For Me...No More (CFMNM), a nonprofit organization founded in 2014 to help families deal with loss after the death of a child. The organization's founders are certified grief recovery specialists and CFMNM's flagship program is a powerful, transformational Healing the Family Workshop where they

teach adult family members affected by the loss of a child ways to cope with their grief to be able to once again live their lives. They offer a variety of incredible educational services that provide individualized, tailored support and ensure you are not alone in your journey and help you go on and once again live your life. cryformenomore.com

Cry For Me... No More

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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.�

to the Center for Women’s Health!�

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

Back Page Ad10 x 7.5

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.

Back Page Ad10 x 7.5

Upcoming Chamber EventsTuesday, April 12Small Business Seminar"Creating a Market Advantage" 7:45 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Chamber Thursday, April 14Business After HoursThe Louver Shop in Gainesville5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Wednesday, April 20Lunch 'n Learn12:00 p.m. - 1:-00 p.m.Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood

Thursday, April 21Blue Zone Community Summit7:00 p.m.Brenau Downtown Center

Tuesday, April 26South Hall Business Coalition8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.University of North Georgia

Friday, April 29Hackers Holiday Golf Tourney10:00 a.m. Shotgun StartLanier Islands

Thursday, May 5Business After HoursChattahoochee Country Club5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

Thursday, May 19Annual Meeting & Gala6:00 p.m.Chattahoochee Country Club

Details & Register Onlinegreaterhallchamber.com