Business Link G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m The Chamber’s 10th Annual HealthSmart Expo presented by CIGNA on October 5 will feature Olympian Jeff Galloway along with over 60 wellness exhibitors and FREE Health Screenings.
Chairman's Column Page 2 Economic Development Page 4 Meetings & Events Page 6 Member Announcements Page 10 Small Business of the Month Page 11 Leadership Hall Page 12 New Members Page 14 Ribbon Cuttings Page 14
Wednesday, October 5 BREAKFAST – 7:30 am-9:00 am EXPO & SCREENINGS – 7:30 am-1:30 pm
Gainesville Civic Center
The Greater Hall Chamber's 10th Annual HealthSmart Expo is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC with over 60 wellness exhibitors and FREE Health Screenings for men and women 18 years and older. Blood Pressure, Body Mass Index (BMI), Cholesterol, Triglycerides and Glucose testing, Asthma screening, Orthopedic Joint screening and more. The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. will be on hand to conduct health screenings, review your written screening report and answer your questions. FREE Shuttle Service! No Admission Fee! No Appointment Needed! FREE Wellness Seminars and FREE salad lunch from McDonald's to the first 100 screenings.
• FREE Community Health Screenings • Open to the Public • No Appointments Needed • Free Wellness Seminars • 60+ Exhibitors • FREE Shuttle Service
HealthSmart 2016 Presented by
Booth Space Available! Reserve Your Exhibit Space Now! Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Jeff Galloway, best selling author and fitness expert, will discuss “No Pain Required: How Fitness Improves Attitude, Jeff Galloway Vitality & Better Brain Activity” U.S. Olympian & Best Selling Author and cover his philosophy of fitness, when done correctly, always leaves a person feeling better. He’ll also speak on “Running until you’re 100” with common sense talk covering the mental side of training and fitness. Over a million runners and walkers have read Galloway books, attended his retreats and running schools, received E-coaching or individual consultation or joined his training programs. His doable plans have opened up the life-changing experience of finishing a distance event to almost everyone. His methods have reduced aches, pains and injuries to almost zero. Jeff is in front of an audience motivating and teaching over 200 times a year – helping those of all abilities to enjoy exercise until they are 100! Learn more about Jeff at jeffgalloway.com Jeff will speak at the HealthSmart Breakfast (Reservations Required) presented by AEON Global Health on October 5 (7:30am) at the Gainesville Civic Center and again at a FREE Wellness Seminar at the HealthSmart Expo (10 am). See Seminar info on page 11. HealthSmart Breakfast Reservations, Expo Exhibit Info or Sponsorship Opportunities: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Save the Date Tuesday, September 13 Small Business Seminar Thursday, September 15 Business After Hours Tuesday, September 20 South Hall Business Coalition
SEPTEMBER 2016
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
From the Chairman
Community Standout in Health & Wellness Living in Gainesville Hall County allows us access to exceptional healthcare, and the growth in this industry continues to provide our society with the best services available. The Greater Hall Chamber's VISION 2030 program identified healthcare as a significant issue in planning for the future of Gainesville-Hall County. As a result, the Chamber formed a Healthcare Committee in 2007 with representatives from Northeast Georgia Health System, area physician groups and health-related organizations, such as the Good News Clinic. The committee oversees a set of community-wide programs and events and meets monthly to discuss access to healthcare, wellness programs and benefits, healthcare services, legislative issues, health insurance and other important health topics. The impact and importance of this committee's work was evident at the recent 5th Annual Healthcare Lee Hemmer Reform Seminar with business representatives attending to learn about critical The Simpson Company Chairman, Greater Hall issues and updates on healthcare reform. VISION 2030 and the Chamber's Chamber of Commerce health and wellness initiatives are funded through the Chamber’s HALLmark Initiative. I hope you'll take part in these upcoming community events as we strive to make Gainesville-Hall County the healthiest community in Georgia. Now celebrating its 10th year, the Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo presented by CIGNA will be held on Wednesday, October 5 and will features some 60 booth exhibits providing interactive wellness services. The event, free and open to the public, focuses on community health and wellness and continues to be one of VISION 2030’s most successful initiatives. Dozens of services are provided at the Expo including FREE Community Health Screenings, expanded this year to include oral cancer screenings, orthopedic joint screenings and several more. The Longstreet Clinic, P.C. will be on hand to conduct health screenings, review your written screening report and answer your questions. A HealthSmart Breakfast presented by AEON Global Health kicks off the event and features awards to the “Most Fit Companies” in Gainesville-Hall County (see nomination information in article below) and will feature guest speaker Jeff Galloway, a U.S. Olympian, coach, trainer and fitness guru.
September 6, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
We are fortunate to have premier health and wellness services in our community with growing physician groups, medical education opportunities at Brenau University, Lanier Technical College and the University of North Georgia. Gainesville-Hall County serves a large population with Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville ranked as Georgia’s top heart hospital for 11 consecutive years and the new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton, opened in 2015, already expanding and serving the growing South Hall area.
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Through the Greater Hall Chamber and other organizations, we have outstanding leadership in Gainesville-Hall County. Leadership that provides us first-class healthcare, services and facilities making our community a standout in the health and wellness industry and creating an unparalleled quality of life.
2016 Most Fit Company Awards As part of the 10th Annual HealthSmart, the Greater Hall Chamber is conducting its annual survey for “Most Fit Company Awards” and judging criteria includes wellness, nutrition and fitness opportunities provided for employees. Presented in three company size categories: Large (251+ employees), Medium (51-250) and Small (50 or less), awards will be presented at the HealthSmart Breakfast presented by AEON Global Health on October 5 at 7:30 am at the Gainesville Civic Center. Reservations are required, and cost is $10 Chamber Members; $20 NonMembers. The breakfast keynote speaker is Olympian Jeff Galloway, best selling author and fitness guru. To learn more about this inspirational speaker and his training programs, visit jeffgalloway.com The deadline to submit the Most Fit Company Survey is September 20. 2015 Most Fit Company Winners included South State Bank, SKF USA, Hall County Sheriff's Office and Brenau University. Complete the 2016 Most Fit Company Survey online at GreaterHallChamber.com or contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Business Link VOLUME 22 ISSUE 3 McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com
greaterhallchamber.com Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2016-2017 Executive Committee Chairman Lee Hemmer The Simpson Company
Vice Chair, Marketing Tate O'Rouke University of North Georgia
Chairman Elect Perry Barnett, CPA Rushton
Vice Chair, Membership Development Katie Dubnik Forum Communications
Treasurer Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Vice Chair, Economic Development Brian Rochester Rochester & Associates Vice Chair, Education Deborah Mack, Volunteer Vice Chair, Government John Breakfield Breakfield & Associates
Co-Chairs, HALLmark Paul Chambers AT&T Randall Frost Stewart, Melvin & Frost David Lee Jackson EMC
Senior Advisor Vice Chair, South Hall Council Dixie Truelove Andy Kalinauskas Truelove Dairy Conditioned Air Systems Immediate Past Chairman Vice Chair, Community Brian Daniel Development Carroll Daniel Construction Co. Lila Weaver Westmoreland President & CEO Brenau University Kit Dunlap Chair, VISION 2030 Greater Hall Chamber of Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Commerce Georgia Health System Elizabeth Higgins, Exec Director
Board of Directors 2016-2017 Jay Cooper, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia Dr. Wanda Creel, Gainesville City Schools Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Danny Dunagan, Mayor, City of Gainesville Sam Evans, Councilman, City of Oakwood Josh Everett, New Leaf Landscape Services Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Tony Funari, Funari Realty Col. Bill Gallagher, Riverside Military Academy Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County Kenitra Halyard, Georgia Power Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota Morgan House, Lake Lanier Olympic Park Anna Jacobs, Jacobs Media Lane Jones, Community Volunteer Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy Caroline Lewallen, Jaemor Farms David Lloyd, Liberty Utilities Mike McGraw, PrideStaff / Ranger Lock Dick Mecum, Chair, Hall County Commission
Terry Merck, American Yazaki Mike Miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Dr. Richard Oates, University of North Georgia Bill Orr, Mayor, Town of Braselton Dr. Ray Perren, Lanier Technical College Larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville Barbara Rambo, ProCare Rx Jeff Reinhardt, MD, The Longstreet Clinic Josh Schlieman, Sullivan & Schlieman Will Schofield, Hall County School System Dr. Ed Schrader, Brenau University Carol Shirley, South State Bank Louis Smith, Northeast Georgia Health System Jody Spain, Cotton Eyed Joe’s Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons Grier Todd, Lanier Islands Milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula Philip Wilheit, Wilheit Packaging Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Arrik Williams, Tatsumi Intermodal USA
Associate Directors 2016-2017 Irineu Bragante, Mugele Tara Carney, AEON Global Health Kate Cook, Cook Law Group Brad Gooch, Lawson Air & Plumbing Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance Andrew Joyner, The Simpson Company Shane Lazenby, Lazenby Law Group
Sarita Madera, Homestar Financial Corp Kingsley Peeples, Bates Carter Steven Pettit, Peach State Bank & Trust Stacey Poole, McDonald's, NEGA Alan Schuetze, Carroll Daniel Construction Ahna Still, Halski Systems Darryl Workman, BrandBank
Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Vice President Shelley Davis, Vice President Existing Industry Amanda Lewis, Project Manager Garrett Wiley, Project Manager Finance & Operations David Umberson, Vice President, Finance & HR Membership Development Mandy Lathem, Vice President, Membership/ Events Kara Tate, Vice President, Membership Sales
Education Dana Miller, Vice President Government Affairs Garrett Wiley, Project Manager South Hall Council Garrett Wiley, Project Manager Community Development Robin Halstead, Vice President VISION 2030 Elizabeth Higgins, Executive Director Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant Greater Hall Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager
Economic D e v e lop m e nt
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Chamber business leaders travel to Japan to encourage jobs for area From Osaka to Tokyo, a delegation of Chamber business leaders met with Japanese executives to encourage good will, further long-term relationships, and encourage new capital investment and jobs from both new and existing businesses. “Visiting the executives and headquarters of existing industry is a priority of our Economic Development program,” said Kit Dunlap, President & CEO, Greater Hall Chamber. “With our diverse international base, some headquarters are a five-minute drive and some are a plane ride away. Economic Development is the cornerstone of the Hallmark Initiative, and we are proud to have sent this team of business representatives to Japan to encourage continued investment.” A team of Chamber business leaders visited Kubota Corporation's headquarters in Osaka, Japan in July. (L-R): Hideo Takigawa, General Manager, Kubota Corporation; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber; David Lee, Jackson EMC; For many years, Georgia has been a leading business Jimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance; Harry Yoshida, Executive Officer & General Manager, Kubota Corporalocation for Japanese investment, and the State opened tion; Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction; Yumiko Nakazono, State of Georgia Economic Development Office in its first international office in Tokyo in 1973. Gaines- Japan; Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates; Perry Barnett CPA, Rushton. ville-Hall County has benefited from major Japanese businesses, including locations for Kubota, Etori, Shintone, Tatsumi and American Yazaki. Together, these firms employ more than 2,000 in Gainesville-Hall County. Kubota is Georgia’s largest Japanese owned company, and it will soon employ more than 3,000 people in Georgia. The company recently completed a 500,000 square foot production facility in the new Gateway Industrial Centre on Highway 365 in Hall County as a part of a growth plan to add an additional 580 jobs to the existing operations.
September 6 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
“Gainesville-Hall County is known as a community that can support the operational needs of Japanese owned businesses as well as the quality of life desired
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by Japanese managers for their families,” said Brian Rochester, Rochester & Associates and Chair of the Chamber’s Economic Development Council. “We heard from our existing industries that Gainesville-Hall County and Georgia serve their needs well,” said Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction and 2015 Chairman of the Chamber Board of Directors. “They value the long-term investments in Georgia’s Port facilities, the non-stop passenger air service between Atlanta and Tokyo, and Georgia’s nationally recognized Quick Start Training program at Lanier Technical College.” “It is reassuring to hear from our Japanese stakeholders that we are taking the right steps in the Chamber’s
workforce development efforts with Lanier Technical College, Hall County Schools and Gainesville City Schools,” said Perry Barnett, CPA, Rushton and Chairman of the Chamber’s Workforce Development Task Force. “Work-based learning, technical education and apprenticeship programs are all important pieces to providing the skills and talent that our healthcare and technology manufacturing firms need.” “This business mission was about renewing relationships and establishing new ones,” said Tim Evans, Chamber Vice President of Economic Development. “These are long-term relationships and our efforts and time to meet with the business leaders in Japan will bring business, jobs and investment for our community.”
Healthcare Reform Seminar
Coalition to meet at Road Atlanta
Presenters at the Healthcare Reform Seminar in August (L-R): Steve McNeilly, Director of Health Partners, Northeast Georgia Health System, Inc.; Dr. David Miller, Professor & Lead Faculty Member of Brenau University MBA Healthcare Management; Brett Fowler, Vice President & Partner, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Anne Tyler Hall, Attorney & Principal, Hall Benefits Law; Dianne Gorski, Wellness Coordinator, Georgia Power; Rob Fowler, Executive Vice President & Partner, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Jamie Hawkins, President & CEO, Benefit Technology Resources.
The Chamber's South Hall Business Coalition recently met at the Cherokee Bluffs Park (L-R): Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo; South Hall Council Vice Chair Andy Kalinauskas, Conditioned Air Systems; Gary Smith, Milton Martin Honda; Mike Little, Hall County Parks & Leisure; Jason Everett, Gainesville Design Center. The Coalition meets monthly and is sponsored by AccessWDUN, Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and Store More Self Storage. The next meeting is Tuesday, September 20 at Road Atlanta with an update on the Petit Le Mans (Sept 28-Oct 1). Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com
M3 donates 100 tablets to students
Happy Labor Day M3 Accounting + Analytics President Allen Read and
“It’s important to me to enAva White of Ava White Academy. sure that we’re collectively as a community raising a generation of young people who are prepared and equipped to be successful adults,” explained Read. “The Ava White Academy is making a difference in the lives of so many children in Gainesville, and M3 is honored to help continue this mission.” M3 is headquartered in Gainesville and employs over 130 area professionals with accounting and technology expertise for over 4,300 hotels in the U.S. The company was founded by Gainesville native and hotelier John McKibbon, III, and was the first to connect the internet and hotel accounting software nearly two decades ago. M3AS.com
Let’s help keep your income-producing investments working as hard as you are.
1/2 Page Ad Beth Baldwin
Financial Advisor
439 Green Street Northwest Gainesville, GA 30501 770-534-1220
2 columns 4.4167 x10"
2016 Industry Award Nominations
Rick Kimpling, AAMS® Financial Advisor
64 North Brooks Street Unit B Cleveland, GA 30528 706-865-0933
Economic Development Reports The Greater Hall Chamber’s updated 2016 Economic Development Report is now available and recaps statistics and milestones in business, retail, redevelopment, infrastructure, healthcare, education and more. The Economic Development Report (no charge) is available in PDF format online at greaterhallchamber.com or contact Garrett Wiley, 770-532-6206 x 110. Email: gwiley@ghcc.com Also available is the 2016 Wage & Benefit Report used by companies as a tool to ensure employers remain competitive in local compensation. The report includes wage information along with sections on pay practices and benefits information. $30 Chamber Members; $50, Non-Members (+S&H). Available in bound-book format or PDF. To order, call Shelley Davis, 770-532-6206 x 108, sdavis@ghcc.com
Reneigh Satterfield, AAMS® Financial Advisor
3630 Thompson Bridge Rd Ste 22 Gainesville, GA 30506 770-536-2031
www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
September 6, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
2016 Industry Appreciation The Chamber is seeking nominations for 2016 Luncheon presented by Industry of the Year Awards. Nominated companies must be located in the Greater Hall area (3 years) and involved in the manufacturing, processing or distribution of a tangible product. The deadline for nominations is October 14. Winners are chosen based on economic impact, corporate responsibility and workforce excellence. Industry of the Year Awards will be presented at the Industry Appreciation Luncheon on November 10 at 11:30 am at the Chattahoochee Country Club, featuring guest speaker Gretchen Corbin, Commissioner, Technical College System of Georgia. Reservations required. $35 Chamber Members; $50 guests; Table $400 (limited table sponsorships). The event is presented by Lanier Technical College and sponsored by King's Hawaiian, Merial, Rushton, Spherion and Syfan Logistics. To make a nomination for Industry of the Year Awards, sponsorship opportunities or lunch reservations, contact Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Economic Development
When M3 Accounting + Analytics, a local hotel accounting software developer with a national presence, acquired a surplus of tablet devices, they quickly found a way to put them to good use. Working with academy founder and director Ava White of Ava White Academy, the M3 team delivered 100 new Samsung tablets to the school for student use. The academy, located on Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville, is a private school dedicated to helping student in grades K-12 with specific learning disabilities (avawhiteacademy.com).
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Meetings & Events September 6, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
SEPTEMBER 2016
Wage & Labor Law Seminar
Join attorneys Madeline Wirt and David Dickerson of Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker on Thursday, September 8 from 8-9am at the Chamber for discussion on changes to the Department of Labor's Overtime Rules that become effective December 1. The changes will extend overtime protection to many white-collar employees who are currently exempt from overtime protection.
Wednesday, September 7 Healthcare Committee 8:00 a.m. 9:30 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, September 16 Economic Development Council 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. – Chamber
Thursday, September 8 Wage & Labor Law Seminar U.S. Dept of Labor’s Wage & Hour Rules presented by Madeline Wirt & David Dickerson, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber
Tuesday, September 20 South Hall Business Coalition 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Road Atlanta in Braselton
Madeline Wirt has practiced law for some 30 years, focusing her career on employment law and representing local and regional employers of all sizes. David Dickerson 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.
Tuesday, September 20 VISION 2030 Board of Directors 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber
Free one-on-one consultations regarding the overtime rule implementation will be available after the meeting. No charge for Chamber members. Details: Amanda Lewis, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
Tuesday, September 13 Small Business Seminar Shark Tank Lanier: Entrepreneurs Pitch Wednesday, September 21 Business Plans to a Panel of Local Sharks! Issues Committee 7:45 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Chamber at Featherbone Communiversity Wednesday, September 21 Tuesday, September 13 Lunch 'n Learn Youth Leadership Hall 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood Riverside Military Academy Thursday, September 22 Tuesday, September 13 Leadership Hall County Ambassadors Council 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. Montara Farm 2 Dog Restaurant in Gainesville Thursday, September 22 Wednesday, September 14 Chamber Board of Directors Meeting Network Over Coffee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. NEGA Medical Center Braselton HoneyBaked Ham in Gainesville Wednesday, September 28 Wednesday, September 14 Network Over Coffee Human Resources Council 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Luna's McDonald's in Oakwood Thursday, September 15 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. – Chamber Thursday, September 15 Business After Hours Sponsor: Conditioned Air Systems 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 2410 Hilton Way in Gainesville
Wednesday, October 5 10th Annual HealthSmart Expo 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Kickoff Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Expo/Screenings Free and Open to the Public Gainesville Civic Center For details on these and more Chamber events, visit: GreaterHallChamber.com
ADDING YEARS TO LIFE & LIFE TO YEARS 984 Thompson Bridge Rd • Gainesville, GA
Biz Card Ad
770-532-1217 • www.vetamc.com Serving Northeast Georgia Since 1967
2 columns 4.4167 x2.0"
6 Dr. Denise Funk • Dr. Chris Potter
Shark Tank Lanier on September 13
Watch as a few budding entrepreneurs get the chance to pitch their business plans to a panel of local “Sharks” at the Chamber's upcoming Small Business Seminar. This fun program will demonstrate what to do and what not to do when trying to build a business. Shark Tank Lanier is Tuesday, September 13, 7:45-9:30 am (extended time) at the Lanier Tech MDC/Featherbone Communiversity, 999 Chestnut Street in Gainesville. Moderator, Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions. Sharks: Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance; Dr. Carroll Turner, Lanier Tech Manufacturing Development Center; Lane Jones, Past Chair, Small Business Roundtable. Sponsored by Highland Mountain Beverage, Jacobs Media, Signs by Tomorrow and WSI Digital Rainmakers. No charge for Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members. Details: Amanda Lewis, Project Manager, 770-532-6206 x 111. Email: alewis@ghcc.com
1/4 Page Ad 2 columns 4.4167 x5"
SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 1
Petit Le Mans PRESENTED BY HARRAH’S CHEROKEE CASINO RESORT
Interclass rivalries take front and center stage at this year’s edition of the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship season finale, as the top teams battle to the finish at the 19th Annual Petit Le Mans presented by Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort! Where Champions Are Made
Tickets on sale now at roadatlanta.com or by phone 800.849.7223.
FAN FAVORITES Autograph Session Open Grid Open Paddock Thursday Night Practice Sports Bar/Club Patrón Vendor Village
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ee entries from the biggest names in motorsports vie for the top spot on the podium after 10 hours of wheel-to-wheel racing. American muscle from Corvette Racing and the all-new Ford GT duke it out in the GT Le Mans class, with other top contenders such as Porsche, Ferrari and BMW also battling for the season-long championship.
The Prototype category has seen Mazda, the DeltaWing and multi-race winners at the front of the pack throughout the IMSA season, and Petit Le Mans is sure to be no different. With a multitude of manufacturers contending for top honors in the GT Daytona field and a tight points race in the Prototype Challenge class, you don’t want to miss the 19th running of this historic race!
WeatherTech Championship Classes of Competition P
Prototype: Daytona Prototypes, Le Mans Prototypes (LMP2) and the revolutionary DeltaWing make up the premier category of WeatherTech Championship competition. As the fastest and most technologically-advanced cars on the racetrack, watch closely for the heated battles between Mazda, Chevrolet and more.
PC
GTLM
Prototype Challenge: This class showcases identical, open-cockpit race cars that utilize spec engines, tires and fuel. These cars can reach top speeds of around 175 miles per hour.
GT Le Mans: As the top GT class of cars on the track, these beasts of the road feature some of the best teams, cars and drivers from across the world. With big names like Corvette, Ferrari, Ford, Porsche and BMW fighting for the top spot in the GTLM class, this category is sure to put on a good show.
GTD
GT Daytona: Featuring slightly less modified production cars than the GTLM class and a number of different manufacturers, this is the most diverse class in the WeatherTech Championship. Look out for great battles between Porsche, Viper, Audi, Lamborghini, Ferrari and more.
Four classes. Ten hours. It all comes down to this. For the Fans: Road Atlanta has been offering unbeatable access to the stars and cars of the top racing series in the world since it’s inception in 1970, and the fan access for Petit Le Mans presented by Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort is no exception.
Our multi-purpose motor sports facility is situated on 750 park-like acres in the rolling hills of North Georgia. • 2.54-mile, 12-turn world class road course
While the on-track competition is the main attraction at Petit Le Mans, there are dozens of other activities around the facility for the whole family. Guests can enjoy an autograph session with every WeatherTech Championship driver and can get up close and personal during the fan grid walk right before the drop of the green flag. The star-studded paddock is open all week to all ticketholders, where there’s an endless bustle of activity and plenty of opportunities to
catch your favorite drivers or celebrity for a quick photo. In need of a special gift to remember the race or a souvenir to bring to loved ones at home? Vendor Village is the place to find it! The vendor area is packed with racing memorabilia, manufacturer displays, food trucks and cold drinks. Plan on stopping by the Kid’s Zone with your little ones for face painting, inflatables and more! If you’re looking for a true fan experience like no other, look no further than the 19th Annual Petit Le Mans presented by Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort, September 28th through October 1st.
• Host to major events like Petit Le Mans, Drift Atlanta, and The Mitty • Family friendly atmosphere: Kids 12 & under are free at all events
Panoz DeltaWing Racing and No. 60 Michael Shank Racing with Curb-Agajanian Curb Records/AERO Honda Ligier JS P2.
Podium Club Tickets on sale now at roadatlanta.com or by phone 800.849.7223. Kids 12 and under are FREE at all events (when accompanied by a paid adult.)
Purchase your space in the Podium Club before it sells out!
Enjoy the 19th Annual Petit Le Mans presented by Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort from the exclusive Podium Club at Road Atlanta, an upscale hospitality suite that’s sure to make the weekend unforgettable. The all-inclusive trackside location offers food, drinks and a great view of the front straightaway and pit lane on Saturday, October 1st, from which to relax away from the elements and enjoy the on-track action. The Podium Club is the ideal place to entertain corporate and team guests, bring families, and meet with friends in a comfortable setting, complete with private restrooms.
September 6, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Member Announcements
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• Company president Jimmy Adams announced that Gainesville-based Adams Transfer & Storage Company (ATS) has been designated a ProMover by the American Moving & Storage Association. The ProMover program helps consumers choose licensed, professional movers and promotes ethical principles in the moving and storage industry, working with federal and state governments to mitigate unethical moving practices. Established in 1903, ATS is managed by the fourth-generation of the founding family and is an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating. AdamsTransfer.com • Quinlan Visual Arts Center's Concert in the Garden is Friday, September 9. Gates open at 6:30 pm, band starts at 7:30 pm. $10 per person at the gate. Sponsored by Smith, Gilliam, Williams & Miles. Bring your own chairs, picnic and brown-bagging permitted! 770-536-2575. quinlanartscenter.org • Authentidate and Gainesville-based AEON Clinical Laboratories have completed a merger to form AEON Global Health, an innovative healthcare technology company. Sonny Roshan will serve as Chairman of the Board of the combined company that is focused on delivering innovative solutions that achieve technology best practices in medicine and raise the standard of healthcare. aeonglobalhealth.com • Road Atlanta's 19th Annual Petit Le Mans is September 28-October 1. With the first run in 1998, Petit Le Mans is a nod to the famous 24 Hours of Le Mans in France and is 10 hours of endurance sports car racing. The Podium Club at Road Atlanta is an exclusive hospitality all-inclusive program with track side location, food and drinks, private restrooms, and a meeting room. Learn about the Podium Club and buy race tickets online at RoadAtlanta.com • Northeast Georgia Health System announces Elyse Gates, Vice President of the Revenue Cycle; Mike Hill, Executive Director of the Program Management Office; New Chief Nursing Officer Brenda Simpson; Barbara Crane, Director of Case Management and Linette Owen, Director of Clinical Documentation. nghs.com • Zach Propes, Director of Hall County Financial Services, announced the department has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association of the
U.S. and Canada for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for 2015. This marks the 24th year the department has earned the designation. hallcounty.org • 2016 Georgia Department of Labor Regional Business Summit is Wednesday, October 5 at Lanier Charter Career Academy featuring GDOL Commissioner Mark Butler and a panel of speakers on unemployment insurance, social media and labor law. Details and registration: 404-272-4470. Email: Janet.Chapman@gdol.ga.gov • The UGA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Alternative Financing Workshop is Wednesday, September 14 at 9:00 am at Jackson EMC, 1000 Dawsonville Highway in Gainesville. Discussion will focus on alternative resources for financing for small business and why traditional loans are not always the best source of funds. No charge, and limited seating. Register: georgiasbdc.org/gainesville • BGW Dental Group announces that Richard G. Bennett, Jr., DMD, is a member of the Academy of Sports Dentistry, the only dentist in Hall County and one of only 600 in the U.S. with this designation to an organization dedicated to the dental needs of athletes at risk to sports' injuries. BGW Dental Group offers custom fitted mouth guards which can be personalized with school colors and mascots. bgwdentalgroup.com • Elachee Nature Science Center's Snake Day 2016 is Saturday, September 10, from 10 am until 3 pm. This family-friendly festival features regional herpetology experts who will engage audiences in demonstrations and workshops showcasing native and exotic species of snakes, lizards, turtles, tortoises, toads and frogs. elachee.org
GOT NEWS? Email: kwest@ghcc.com
Chamber Job Opening EDUCATION / LEADERSHIP DIRECTOR Experience is a must. Planning and coordinating education and leadership initiatives. Communication, organization, technology skills. College Degree. Working with a team and volunteers. Send resume: Human Resources, Greater Hall Chamber, P.O. Box 374, Gainesville, GA 30503. resumes@ghcc.com
Networking at South State Bank Chamber members gathered for great food, fun and networking at Business After Hours at South State Bank (L-R): Kurt Hansen, South State Bank; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Stash, South State Bank mascot; Carol Shirley and John Helmken, South State Bank. Don't miss the September 15 Business After Hours at Conditioned Air System with food from The Varsity! Mandy Lathem, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: mlathem@ghcc.com
AT&T Fiber Ready in Hall County Tim Evans (left), Greater Hall Chamber Vice President of Economic Development, and Paul Chambers, AT&T's Northeast Georgia Regional Director, External Affairs. AT&T and representatives of the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority recently announced that the Gateway Industrial Centre, located on GA 365 just north of Gainesville, is certified as AT&T Fiber Ready. With this designation, local economic development officials can more effectively position their projects and communities for site selection by emphasizing the availability of high-speed, fiber-based services. georgia.att.com
Seminar on Employee Motivation Over 25 Chamber members attended the Small Business Seminar on employee motivation presented by Chris Hanks, Founder & Executive Director of the Entrepreneurship Center, Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University. (L-R, Front): Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber; Chris Hanks and Regan Durkin, Kennesaw State University; (Back) Jim Grier, Champion Capital Alliance; Lane Jones; Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint.
Free Wellness Seminars at Expo Running Until You're 100 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. – Chattahoochee Room Gainesville Civic Center Presented by Jeff Galloway, U.S. Olympian and Best Selling Author. Over a million runners and walkers have read Galloway books, attended his retreats and running schools, received E-coaching or individual consultation or joined his training programs. His methods have reduced aches, pains and injuries to almost zero and helped those of all abilities to enjoy exercise until they are 100! Hands Only CPR Training 11:00 a.m. - 11:45 a.m. – Chattahoochee Room, Gainesville Civic Center Presented by George Ordway, PhD, PA-C; Daniel Thompson, MPH, North Georgia Heart Foundation. Each year in the U.S. there are some 365,000 cardiac arrests that occur outside of the hospital. Attend this seminar to give you the power to save a life with easy-to-learn, hands-only CPR with demonstrations on how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED). Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food 12:00 a.m. - 12:45 a.m. – Chattahoochee Room, Gainesville Civic Center Presented by Caroline Black Lewallen, Agritourism & Marketing Coordinator, Jaemor Farms. In this day in age when consumers are more curious about their food than ever before, Caroline loves speaking with people about their food – and the farmer who grew it. Learn about farmers in our community and the food they grow. Details: 770-532-6206 / GreaterHallChamber.com
The Cabinet Place takes pride in manufacturing commercial and residential cabinets that are both beautiful and functional. Owner Stan Hunt notes their cabinet makers' attention to detail and professional craftsmanship set them apart. Their designers will assist you in selecting the Stan Hunt, owner of The Cabinet Place, Inc., Chamber Small right components Business of the Month. as well as drawing up the plans with your individual flair for virtually any room. From elaborate kitchens to luxurious bathrooms, home offices to entertainment centers, fireplace surrounds to full bars, The Cabinet Place can create your cabinetry dream. The company has been in its current location on Mountain Center Plaza in Lula since 2008. Plans are in the works for a 10,000 square foot expansion and the addition of 12 employees. The Cabinet Place Inc., 5278 Mountain Center Plaza, Lula GA 30554. 770-869-7607. cabinetplace.net
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September 6, 2016 • An Advertising Supplement to The Times
1/2 Page Ad
Community Development
The HealthSmart Expo on October 5 is FREE and open to the public and will feature free wellness seminars. No fees to attend and no reservations needed.
Small Business of the Month The Cabinet Place
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September 6, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Education & Leadership
Leadership Hall County
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Leadership Hall toured Buford Dam as part of the Lake Program, led by Nick Baggett, Natural Resource Manager, US Army Corps of Engineers (left). The program also included overviews/tours of Lanier Islands, Lake Lanier Olympic Park, DNR and Hall County's Search & Rescue Dive Team. Thank you sponsors, McDonald's and Lanier Islands.
Youth Leadership Hall
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Youth Leadership Hall 2016-2017 kicked off in August with a class of 68 students.
Partners in Education Oakwood Elementary and Sam's Club Oakwood Elementary received dozens of pre-assembled back packs filled with quality school supplies from Sam’s Club of Oakwood – the school's Partner in Education. The donation will help offset the cost of back to school supplies for many children in need. Oakwood Elementary Principal Dana Magill is grateful to partner with Sam’s Club and stated, “I am looking forward to a long-lasting relationship with our new friends and business partner; this relationship will definitely benefit our kids, our entire community and our staff. This is a tremendous help, and we are all so grateful for Sam’s Club and their generosity.” Sam's Club Manager David Keasler said “We are committed to giving back to our community, and every donation sparks growth and development for kids all ages. Providing essential school supplies brings us pleasure to know that we have helped fulfill someone’s ‘wish list’. It's part of Sam’s corporate culture to partner with the agencies and schools who need us most.”
Gainesville • Braselton
Delivering Tender Loving Care for Generations
www.LongstreetClinic.com • 770-718-1122
Ribbon Cuttings
Relax & Wax Flowery Branch
Owners Simara Rondina and Renata Long (not pictured) recently opened Relax & Wax Flowery Branch, a full service, authentic Brazilian waxing salon serving North Georgia. Relax & Wax offers professional waxing and sugaring by certified estheticians for both men and women and will soon provide full facials and massages at their five-room salon. 5900 Spout Springs Road, Suite D4, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 678-828-7788. relaxandwax.com
Image Boutique in Gainesville
Scott and Shannon Faile cut ribbon at Image Boutique on the Downtown Gainesville Square. The shop carries the latest, contemporary styles of clothing, accessories and shoes for women of all ages and strives to offer affordable items whether it be a casual look of jeans and a cute tee shirt or something a little dressier for work or play! 108 Washington Street, NW, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-971-1300. shopimageboutique.com
September 6, 2016 • Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Pre-K Preparatory Academy
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Owner and Director Arbendette Van cuts ribbon at Pre-K Preparatory Learning Academy, a faith-based, non-profit organization dedicated to providing a nurturing and safe learning environment. A successful tomorrow begins with a good spiritual foundation; therefore their center focuses upon Bible, integrated early learning experiences that encourage the development of character. 438 Prior Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 678-943-1234.
Citizens Pharmacy Flowery Branch Founded in 1975, Citizens Pharmacy is a locally owned, independent pharmacy. Ashish Patel, Naveed Tharwani and Samir Shah acquired the business in July 2015. The recently renovated business is a full retail pharmacy, offering a complete line of medical equipment. 5325 Atlanta Highway, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-3324. citizenspharmacy.com
Mountain Education Charter School
Dr. Greg Williams and Kim Davis (with scissors), Site Directors for the new Mountain Education Charter High School (MECHS), Assistant Superintendent Tracy Sanford and Superintendent Dr. Wayne Lovell (center) cut a ribbon at the new campus in Oakwood. SACS accredited MECHS works in a collaborative effort with school systems in North Georgia, and is a tuition-free, non-traditional, evening high school with a self-paced curriculum and a flexible attendance policy. 2723 Tumbling Creek Road, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770-531-2330. mymec.org/sites/hall
Why Join the Chamber? Member Testimonial of the Month "One of the first things we did when starting Red Clay Interactive was join the Greater Hall Chamber, and 16 years later it’s one of the best decisions I ever made. No organization has been more responsible for our success than the Chamber. More than 75 percent of our clients those first few years were directly related to our involvement in and referrals from the Chamber." Lance Compton, President/CEO Red Clay Interactive
Welcome New Members AC Doctors of North Georgia, Inc. E.J. Martin 5613 JJ Lott Road Braselton, GA 30517 -Heating & Air 770-965-0188 ac-doctors.com Advocare / Team Stockel CJ Stockel 6151 Baybrook Trace Hoschton, GA 30548 -Health & Wellness 770-827-8183 teamstockel.com Angela Middleton 2836 Gaines Mill Road Gainesville, GA 30507 -Individual Member 770-654-1179 Holly's Bed & Biscuit Inn Holly Crumley 8730 Forrester Road Lula, GA 30554 -Retail 678-327 1788 hollysbandb.com
Keller Williams Lanier Partners/Megan Thoroman 631 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 -Real Estate 770-503-7070 movedbymegan.com
Shelby Property, LLC Joshua Schrager 200 S Park Road, #425 Hollywood, FL 33021 -Real Estate 954-417-1340 lienbase.com
Kimbrough Law Firm Emily McCord 500 Jesse Jewell Parkway Suite 200 Gainesville, GA 30501 -Attorney 706-850-6910 kimbroughlawfirm.com
St. Paul United Methodist Church / Rev. Geoff Grubbs 404 Washington Street, NW Gainesville, GA30501 -Church 770-532-2977 stpaulumcgainesville.org
NovaCopy Jim McCoy 1810 Ashton Brooke Lane Buford, GA 30519 -Print/Copy/Data Mgmt 470-639-5570 novacopy.com Pollo Tropical Lisa Bittings 1198 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville, GA 30501 -Restaurant & Catering pollotropical.com
Systel Brenda Lee 470 Satellite Boulevard, NE Suite N Suwanee, GA 30024 -Signs & Lighting Services 678-957-0866 systel.com Twin Lakes Recovery Center Reese Daniel 204 W Academy Street Gainesville, GA 30501 -Counseling Services 678-897-3445 twinlakesrecoverycenter.com
Wells Fargo Advisors Gainesville/ Braselton connects 10 local community Financial Advisors with more than 233 combined years experience and advanced credentials including: 4 CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ 1 CERTIFIED INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT ANALYST 1 CERTIFIED 401 (K) PROFESSIONAL 2 PLANNING PARA-PROS
To the strength and stability of national Wells Fargo resources: 125 YEARS IN OPERATION $1.8 TRILLION ASSETS NATION-WIDE
Building wealth takes hard work and passion. So should managing it. We look forward to the opportunity to help you achieve you financial goals.
Dedicated to community: NATIONALLY IN 2015 WELLS FARGO DONATED MORE THAN $281.3 MILLION TO MORE THAN 16,300 NONPROFITS AND
600 SPRING STREET SE GAINESVILLE, GA 30501 770-532-6361
6342 GRAND HICKORY DR, STE 205 BRASELTON, GA 30517-6234 770-965-7678
Picture back row left to right: Andy Tymchuk, Vice President Investment Officer; Hannah Palmer, Client Associate; Lance Carpenter, Vice President Investment Officer; Shane Gaddy, Senior Vice President – Investments; Mary O’Kelley, Senior Registered Client Associate; Jaynell Talaber, Senior Registered Client Associate. Picture front row left to right: Charlie Strong, Vice President – Investments; Judy Butler, Senior Client Associate; Kevin Price, Managing Director; Kelly Lee, Financial Consultant; Shirley Crawford, Senior Registered Client Associate; Meghan Price, Financial Advisor
LOGGED 1.8 MILLION VOLUNTEER HOURS. LOCALLY, THIS YEAR ALONE, OUR TEAM HAS VOLUNTEERED, DONATED, OR SERVED ON THE BOARD OF MORE THAN 20 NONPROFITS.
Invested in you. Call us to learn more. CAR071603427
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325 Washington St. Gainesville, GA 770-536-1100 www.peachstatebank.com
Member
Upcoming Chamber Events Thursday, September 8 Wage & Labor Law Seminar New U.S. Department of Labor Wage & Hour Rules by Attorneys Madeline Wirt & David Dickerson 8:00 am - 9:00 am – Chamber
Thursday, September 15 Business After Hours Tailgate 2016 with The Varsity! 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Conditioned Air Systems 2410 Hilton Way in Gainesville
Tuesday, September 13 Small Business Seminar Shark Tank Lanier: Get business tips on financing from local “sharks” 7:45 am - 9:30 am (extended time) Lanier Tech MDC
Tuesday, September 20 South Hall Business Coalition Update: 19th Annual Petit LeMans (Sept 28 - Oct 1) 8:00 am - 9:00 am Road Atlanta 5300 Winder Highway in Braselton
U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #47 GAINESVILLE, GA
Wednesday, September 21 Lunch 'n Learn Networking and leads development 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Milton Martin Toyota in Oakwood
CAR-RT SORT
Details & Register Online greaterhallchamber.com This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.