NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2023
Annual Eggs & Issues Breakfast
contents
Thursday, December 7
Chairman’s Column page 2
7:30-9:30 am | Lanier Technical College
Make Your Reservations!
Economic Development page 4-7 Member News pages 8-9 Meetings & Events page 10 Small Business Spotlights page 11 Most Fit Company Awards page 14
Featuring the
Hall County Legislative Delegation
Open to the Public
Senator Shelly Echols 49th Senate District
Senator Bo Hatchett 50th Senate District
Rep. Lee Hawkins 27th House District
Rep. Brent Cox
28th House District
Ribbon Cuttings page 20-21 New Members page 22
Tuesday, November 7
Business After Hours
Bourbon Brothers at Boot Barn Hall with Syfan Logistics
Wednesday, November 15
Industry Appreciation Lanier Technical College
Thursday, November 16
Farm City Breakfast
North Hall Community Center
Rep. Matt Dubnik 29th House District
Rep. Derrick McCollum 30th House District
Marketing Workshop Get updated on the latest marketing strategies to stay on top of new trends. Find your voice and grow your business! Presented by Forum Communications and sponsored by Lanier Islands.
Wednesday, January 24 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Brenau Downtown Center Details on Page 10,
Rep. Emory Dunahoo 31st House District
featured member
upcoming events
Rep. David Clark
100th House District
Rep. Soo Hong
103rd House District
BUSINESS LINK
from the chairman
VOLUME 29 ISSUE 3
McKemie West, Editor • Email: kwest@ghcc.com 230 E.E. Butler Pkwy • Gainesville GA 30501 • 770-532-6206 • GreaterHallChamber.com
Shop Local, Buy Local With the Holiday Season upon us, I am reminded of how fortunate we are to live in this dynamic community with a healthy business climate, a strong leadership base, and an unparalleled quality of life. Brett Fowler Turner Wood & Smith Insurance 2023-2024 Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Our Chamber is considered one of the most progressive in Georgia, and I am honored to be a part of such a successful organization. I am mindful of our members consisting mainly of small businesses. In fact, over 90% of Chamber members are small businesses, and many of these are retail establishments. Our community offers the unique opportunity to shop at a variety of independent, small businesses as well as large retailers. Take advantage of the diverse shopping alternatives here in Gainesville-Hall County. Keep our tax dollars local and boost our area economy. When you shop, dine and purchase services in Gainesville-Hall County, you give our community the best gift of all – your sales tax dollars.
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
2023-2024 Executive Committee
Your local buying generates sales tax dollars that work throughout the year to improve our community in many different ways. I encourage you to continue to support these and other stores scattered throughout Gainesville-Hall County and boost sales to keep our locals thriving. Your dollars spent with locally owned businesses not only have a great impact on our economy, but also simultaneously create jobs, fund more services through sales tax, invest in neighborhood improvement and promote community development. Consider a gift of original art from the Quinlan Visual Arts Center or another local gallery. Pick up gift certificates from one of our many restaurants in Flowery Branch, Oakwood, Downtown Gainesville. Visit one of the many unique specialty shops or home good retailers for gifts. Honor a friend or make a donation in memory of someone to a charitable organization. Remember the true meaning of Christmas as we rush to purchase gifts for family and friends. Shop HERE, in our community, and remember our LOCAL merchants. Shop local, buy local this Holiday Season.
HealthSmart Wellness Exp0 Deborah Mack, Dr. Dave Westfall and Kit Dunlap at the Chamber's 16th Annual HealthSmart Expo in October. Presented by Northeast Georgia Health System, the event was a success with dozens receiving free health screenings by Longstreet Clinic, Northeast Georgia Health System, Public Health District 2. Over 50 exhibitors participated in the Wellness Expo and Most Fit Company Awards were presented to outstanding employers. See highlights on page 15. 2
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Chairman Brett Fowler Turner Wood & Smith Insurance Chairman-Elect Glennis Barnes Georgia Power Treasurer Phil Bonelli Regions Bank Education Vice Chairs Whitney Brown Stewart Melvin & Frost Andi Farmer Milton Martin Honda
Economic Development Vice Chair Glennis Barnes Georgia Power
Community Development HALLmark Co-Chairs Vice Chair Denise Deal Tammy Caudell The Sassafras Group Carroll Daniel Construction Casey Ryals, Hall County Farm Bureau Insurance Membership Vice Chairs Philip Wilheit Jr. Marketing Vice Chair Missy Burgess John Simpson Wilheit Packaging Lanier Islands Lakeview Academy Beth Downs, Northeast Senior Advisor Doug Carter Government Affairs Georgia Health System Vice Chair Don Carter Realty Drew Echols VISION 2030 Vice Chairs Immediate Past Chair Jaemor Farms Tate O’Rouke Jackson EMC William Bagwell South Hall Council Juli Clay Homestead Investments Women in Technology Vice Chair President & CEO Mike Zeiler Anna Hester Carroll Daniel Construction Executive Director Kit Dunlap
2023-2024 Board of Directors Christa Andrews, Corporate Storage Ed Asbridge, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch Brian Barfield, AT&T Neal Booth, Pinnacle Bank Chris Braswell, The Norton Agency Chris Brown, Delta Community Credit Union Nick Bruner, Rushton Brian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management Rand Carswell, Chattahoochee Grill Kay Cochran, Cochran Brothers Electric Co. Sam Couvillon, Mayor, City of Gainesville Shanna Cronic, Northside Hospital Diagnostic Clinic Nathan Crumley, M & R Equipment Rental & Sales S. Wade Dale, Mayor, City of Gillsville Andrew Davenport, A New Veteran Stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB Jessica Dudley, United Way of Hall County Anderson Dunlap, The Inn Between Deli Cody Elder, Gainesville Coca-Cola Bottling Co. United Brennan Garrison, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance Emily Hayes, Milton Martin Toyota Richard Higgins, Chair, Hall County Commission Sam Hulsey, United Community Bank Rick Humphrey, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta Jay Kelly, Signs By Tomorrow Angie Kennedy, Carroll Daniel Construction Jay Kilroy, Willis Investment Counsel Michael Lancaster, Edward Jones Investments David Lee, Jackson EMC Dr. Kate Maine, University of North Georgia Megan Martin, North Georgia Community Foundation Ward McCamy, Bank of America
Tim McDonald, Lanier Technical College Mike McGraw, Ranger Manufacturing / PrideStaff Terry Merck, American Yazaki Corporation Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council Steve Naughton, Enterprising Solutions James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont Matt Nix, Duplicating Products Witt Nix, Duplicating Products Dr. Jeff Payne, Capstone Property Group Nicole Pleasant, First Citizens Bank Col. Stas Preczewski, Riverside Preparatory Academy Stacey Reece, Spherion Staffing & Recruiting Vanesa Sarazua, Hispanic Alliance GA Stacey Poole Sauer, McDonald’s NEGA Britt Sawyer, Sawyer Media Group Will Schofield, Hall County School System Mulham Shbeib, Mar-Jac Poultry Dr. Anne Skleder, Brenau University Jackie Walters Slaughter, Walters Management Co. Terry Spicer, King’s Hawaiian Bakery Analiese Stopek, Longstreet Clinic Kevin Strada, The Atlanta Falcons Renee Sweeney, Notary Pros Joe Thomas, Mayor, City of Lula Melissa Tymchuk, Northeast Georgia Health System Jody Wall, Brenau University Kurt Ward, Mayor, Town of Braselton Jeff Watson, Kubota Manufacturing of America Lila Westmoreland, Habitat for Humanity Philip Wilheit, Sr., Wilheit Packaging Dr. Jeremy Williams, Gainesville City Schools
Greater Hall Chamber Staff Executive Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Gerri Collins, Executive Assistant Economic Development Tim Evans, Senior Vice President Nikki Chandler, VP Existing Industry Ryan Jackson, Project Manager Abby Greenwood, Project Manager Finance & Administration Mark VanTassel, VP
VISION 2030 Anna Hester, Executive Director
Community Development Robin Halstead, VP
Government Affairs Kit Dunlap, President & CEO Anna Hester
Education & Leadership Lisa McCormack, VP
Membership Development Christen Wilbanks, VP Sales Ellie Parker, VP Events Marissa Maynor, Sales & Events South Hall Council Ellie Parker, VP Events
Marketing & Communications Kemie West, Consultant Chamber Welcome Center Robin Halstead, Manager Intern Sarah Nolan, Brenau University
The mission of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce is to improve the overall business climate for member growth, promote community development, facilitate political action, and enhance the quality of life.
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economic development A Decade of Business Excellence
$47 million facility coming to Gainesville CJ Foodville Corporation recently broke ground on a $47 million commercial bakery in Gainesville-Hall County. The new food processing facility will be located in Gainesville 85 Business Park where the company will create 285 new jobs. The new facility is expected to be complete in 2025. One of the largest food service and food processing companies in South Korea, CJ Foodville's TOUS les JOURS bakery café brand currently has four storefronts in Georgia. Tony Hunsoo Ahn, CEO of CJ Foodville USA, stated, "Our ultimate goal is to establish the TOUS les JOURS brand as a globally cherished bakery brand that transcends borders and captivates palates worldwide."
(L-R) Tim Evans, Chamber; Tammy Caudell, Carroll Daniel Construction; Tate O'Rouke, Jackson EMC; and, Glennis Barnes, Georgia Power, attended a ceremony at the Governor's Mansion to celebrate A Decade of Business Excellence. Governor Brian P. Kemp, in conjunction with the Georgia Department of Economic Development announced that Georgia achieved an unprecedented milestone: a full decade of business excellence, earning the rank of No. 1 state for business from Area Development magazine for 10 consecutive years. No other state in the nation has achieved this benchmark. Georgia is considered the best location for doing business according to an expert panel of location consultants and is the highest performer in more than a dozen categories upon which companies make their site selection decisions.
“CJ Foodville will be part of Gainesville-Hall County’s business community of 330 global manufacturers and processors,” said Tim Evans, Chamber Senior VP of Economic Development. “Gainesville-Hall County offers a competitive advantage for food businesses by connecting them to world-class talent, industry specific training at Lanier Technical College, a vast network of logistics providers, and global markets through Georgia Port Authority’s new Inland Port Terminal.” Learn more about the company at cjfoodville.co.kr.
Swiss firm opens in Oakwood South
Annual Industry of the Year Awards
Roger Tutterow Professor of Economics Kennesaw State University 4
The Greater Chamber's Annual Industry Appreciation Luncheon on November 15 is presented by Lanier Technical College and will feature an Economic Outlook by Roger Tutterow, Professor of Economics at Kennesaw State University. Tutterow's analysis of the economic, business and political environments have been featured in a variety of media. He has served as a consultant on financial economics and statistical modeling for corporate clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to closely held businesses. Industry of the Year Awards will be presented to outstanding companies recognizing economic impact, corporate responsibility and workforce excellence. Reservations Required. Nikki Chandler, 770-532-6206, or nchandler@ghcc.com. Register Online: GHCC.com/events
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Medmix, a Swiss medical device manufacturer of healthcare products, will be manufacturing and assembling products at their new 300,000 square-foot production facility developed by Pattillo Industrial Real Estate in Oakwood South Industrial Park. (L-R) Swiss Consul General Urs Broennimann; Tim McDonald, President of Lanier Technical College; Girts Cimermans, CEO of Medmix; James Kirk, President of Medmix Healthcare US; Alan Richadson, COO of Medmix; Tim Evans, Greater Hall Chamber. The new location will be the company’s first expansion in the U.S. Medmix produces equipment used in drug delivery, surgery and dental offices. Production will begin in 2024 and require more than $20 million investment and grow to 200 employees. medmix.swiss
South Hall Business Coalition
(L-R) Chamber South Hall Chair Mike Zeiler, Carroll Daniel Construction; Bryan Sellers, Driver, Paul Miller Racing; Rick Humphrey, President & General Manager, Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta, and Tim Evans, Senior Vice President, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, at Michelin Raceway Road Atlanta. MRRA hosted the breakfast meeting, and IMSA Driver Bryan Sellers, a Hall County native, spoke about his racing experiences and the Schaun Crane, Pinnacle Bank; Sheri Millwood, Oakwood City Council and Norton Commercial; Rhonda 2023 Petit Le Mans. Dellinger, Peach State Bank, at the meeting at MRRA.
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Celebrating
Years
1/2 Page Ad
– Forum Communications –
STRONG GADDY LEE
Offering personal and business wealth planning services.
The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Education Update was the program at the South Hall Business Coalition's August meeting. (L-R) Daren Wayne, Radial Property Group; Tim McDonald, Lanier Technical College; Jamie Green, Principal, Gainesville High School; Will Schofield, Superintendent, Hall County Schools; Mark Pettit, Hall County Board of Education.
Upcoming South Hall Business Coalition Meeting The Coalition will meet Thursday, November 30 (9-10am) at Houndstooth Grill in Braselton and hear from Tim Evans, Chamber Senior Vice President of Economic Development, who will present the annual Economic Development Update. Sponsored by Tony Funari of Funari Realty. Register Online: GHCC.com/EVENTS.
Contact us to learn more.
Securities and Retirement Plan Consulting Program advisory services offered through LPL Financial, a Registered Investment Advisor, member FINRA/SIPC. Other advisory services offered through IFG Advisory LLC. IFG Advisory LLC., and SGL Wealth Management Group are separate entities from LPL Financial. ART#444783 November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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economic development
HIRED! Over 1,000 attend Fall Job Fair
Cottrell expands with $125 million facility
NOW OPEN in Gainesville Cottrell, an industry leader in manufacturing and assembling over-the-road car haulers and equipment, is expanding with a second manufacturing facility in Gainesville. The expansion will serve as the company’s North Campus, adjacent to their existing South Campus in Hall County. Cottrell will invest $125 million in the new 500,000-square-foot facility, expansion covering 110 acres. Seamless connectivity to the existing campus is under construction with a 600-foot long bridge. The new facility is expected to open in early 2024. Cottrell currently employs 1,200 and has grown its business in Gainesville-Hall County since 1974. Cottrell is the largest producer of car haulers in North America. cottrelltrailers.com
More than 70 employers and 1,000 job seekers attended the Chamber's Fall Job Fair event at the Gainesville Civic Center. The event was presented by Express Employment Professionals. (L-R) Jaime Oceguera, Aby Mosqueda, Ana Castrejon, Heather Tyner, Cole Ivester and Hollie Christy. The Spring Job Fair is Thursday, April 11, 2024 (10am-2pm) at the Gainesville Civic Center. For information, contact Abby Greenwood, Project Manager, Economic Development at 770-532-6206 x 110 or agreenwood@ghcc.com.
Spherion Staffing & Recruiting was a top sponsor along with Northeast Georgia Health System. Other sponsors included Jaslinks Healthcare Services, Northside Hospital, Carroll Daniel Construction, Elringklinger, King’s Hawaiian and BTD Manufacturing.
Health & Wellness Seminar: Hospice Care
Hospice Care was the topic discussed at the Chamber's recent Health & Wellness Seminar (L-R) Chamber Health & Wellness Chair Dr. Dave Westfall, Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Graduate Medical Education (GME); Dr. Leena Dutta, NGMC Hospice; Dr. John E Delzell Jr., NGMC Hospice; Catherine Kuo, GME Family Medical Resident; Nikki Chandler, Chamber; Chris Bray, NGHS Foundation; Abby Greenwood, Chamber. The next seminar is December 6 (9-10am) at the Chamber or via Zoom. Info: Abby Greenwood, 770-532-6206.
Job seekers completed applications on-site and met face-toface with hiring managers. Mars Wrigley was one of dozens of industries and manufacturers that were M – F | 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. hiring at the 1498 Jesse Jewell Parkway SE, Suite D | Gainesville, GA 30501 | 770-685-6347 event.
georgiaderm.com
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November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Workforce Development
meetings
Farm Recognition on November 16
events
calendar of events
The 28th Annual Farm City Breakfast is November 16 (7:30am) at the North Hall Community Center Wednesday, May 3 Healthcare Committee and will recognize local 9:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. | Chamber farmers and-those
May
Small Business Seminar "Outsourcing Success"
Tuesday, May 9
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Chamber or via Zoom Join Angela Banks, Client Solutions Executive at Notary Pros, for tips on implementing a successful outsourcing strategy. Notary Pros is a nationwide document handing service, and trusted national partner of major companies that provides a mobile delivery of time-critical documents to clients and associates across Georgia and the USA. No Charge for Chamber Members. Register at GHCC.com/EVENTS. Savannah Garrick, 770-532-6206.
Business After Hours SGL Wealth Management
(L-R) Career Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) Deputy Superintendent Dr. Tuesday, May 16
Barbara M. Wall, Georgia Department of Education; Nikki Chandler, Chamber VP Existing 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. | 605 Green Street
Industry; Rhonda Samples, CTAE Director, Hall County Schools, and Georgia School Join the SGL Wealth Management team as they celebrate 15 years of serving Gainesville Superintendent Richard Woods attended CTAE/Workforce Development sessions -Hall at the County and helping clients achieve their financial goals. They invite you to the front lawn of State Board of Education’s Retreat at Brasstown Valley Resort in October. CTAE integrates their Historic Green Street home for food and fun. Enjoy tacos from the Super Tacos Food core academic knowledge with technical occupational to prepare students for Truck, drinks, lawn games, music, prizes andand more! $5 Chamberskills Member; $15 Non-Member. post-secondary education and the workforce. Register at GHCC.com/EVENTS. Christen Wilbanks, 770-532-6206.
working agriculture Friday,inMay 5 and agribusiness. Vision 2030 ART in the PARK Since UGA 6:001995, p.m.the - 8:00 p.m. Laurel Park Extension Hall County, Tuesday, June 6 Hall County Farm South Hall Business Coalition Tuesday, May 9 Bureau the Greater Hall County Sheriff's Office Smalland Business Seminar 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Hall Chamber have 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. South Precinct | Flowery Branch coordinated the event in or via Zoom In person at the Chamber observance of National Wednesday, June 7 Tuesday, May 9 Farm City Week. Healthcare Committee Ambassadors Council Sponsors include Insurance, United Community 9:00Bagwell a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 Jackson p.m. EMC (presenting sponsor), Bank, Cargill, Chandler Equipment, Mar-Jac Poultry, Hall County Parks & Leisure, Jaemor Scott's Downtown | Gainesville Friday, 9 The keynote speaker is Chris Farms, Mountain Fresh Creamery and Hall County Soil &June Water. Economic Development Council Wednesday, 10 Rhodes, directorMay of industry partnerships and project-based learning at the University of 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. HumanCollege Resource Council and Environmental Georgia's of Agricultural Sciences Flowery Branch(CAES) Depotwhere he facilitates 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. CAES's participation in the university's Innovation District initiative, a dynamic ecosystem of June 13 entrepreneurship and places, programs foster innovation, Thursday, Mayand 11 people working together toTuesday, Small Business Seminar 115th Annual Meeting & Gala experiential learning. Complimentary breakfast. Open to the public. Reservations required: 8:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. 6:00Davis, p.m. Outdoor Reception Karen 770-535-8293, or email: karen.davis2@uga.edu. In person at the Chamber or via Zoom 7:00 p.m. Dinner & Program Chattahoochee Country Club Wednesday, June 14 Human Resource Council Friday, May 12 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Economic Development Council 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Thursday,770-536-9864 June 15 Jackson EMC | Gainesville
June
Northeast Georgia Diagnostic Clinic is now Small Business Seminar "Building a Drug Free Workplace"
Tuesday, June 13
8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. | Chamber or via Zoom Learn about the benefits and best practices of drug free workplaces. The Council on Alcohol and Drugs' Drug Free Workplace Director Karen Tinker will focus on small and medium sized businesses and provide awareness around specific drugs and discuss suicide prevention. No Charge for Chamber Members. Register at GHCC.com/EVENTS. Savannah Garrick, 770-532-6206.
Tuesday, May 16 Vision 2030 Board Meeting 11:30 a.m. | Longstreet Clinic Tuesday, May 16 Business After Hours SGL Wealth Management 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 605 Green Street | Gainesville
1/2 Page Ad 10" x 4.75"
Business After Hours – Northside Hospital Diagnostic Clinic – Five Thirty Nine Office Building
Wednesday, May 17 Issues Committee 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber
5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Same 539 Green StreetGreat Place, New Name, Stay Up-to-Date: GHCC.com/events ALWAYS the Diagnostic Clinic!
Tuesday, June 27
|
Join us on the front lawn for food, drinks, and networking to celebrate the reopening of Five Thirty Nine, brokered and managed by The Norton Agency and owned by The John and Cori Davenport Family. Located on historical Green Street, the property offers executive office suites with state-of-the-art technology and amenities. $5 Chamber Member; $15 Non-Member. Register at GHCC.com/EVENTS. Christen Wilbanks, 770-532-6206.
Thursday, May 25 Chamber Board of Directors Sponsored by Georgia Power 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center
Thursday, May 18 Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber
Gainesville:
Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber
Braselton:
Tuesday, June 20 Highpoint/Riverstone • Vision 2030 Board Meeting 11:30 a.m | Chamber
470-228-7900
Wednesday, June 21 Issues Committee 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber
Duluth:
Thursday,770-476-3636 June 22 Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. | Gainesville Civic Center
Oncology and Tuesday, June 27 Infusion Services: Business After Hours
Five Thirty Nine Office Building Gainesville/ Hosted by The Norton Agency 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. Braselton-Riverstone • 539 Green Street NW | Gainesville
470-228-7700
www.ngdc.com
November •May December • June 2023 2023 || GreaterHallChamber.com GreaterHallChamber.com
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member news
Lisa McCormack
Chamber Vice President of Education & Leadership
Sarah Nolan
Chamber Intern from Brenau University
Ashley Davis
Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing
Lisa McCormack is a native of Morristown, Tennessee and recently joined the Greater Hall Chamber as Vice President of Education & Leadership. In this role, she is responsible for Leadership Hall County, Youth Leadership Hall, Partners in Education, and other educational programs. Lisa is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and most recently worked at Regions Bank in Consumer Banking. As a former banker, Lisa has a passion for finance, building meaningful connections with people and supporting the local community. In 2018 she and her husband made the move from Gwinnett County to Hall County, where they quickly integrated into the North Hall community. lmccormack@ghcc.com
Hall County native Sarah Nolan is a current Marketing student at Brenau University where she will graduate in Spring 2024. Sarah initially joined the Chamber staff as an intern in 2022 and returned in 2023. She is responsible for assisting the membership team and with social media content creation. At Brenau, Sarah is involved with Greek life, the Brenau Trustee Library, and the Marketing Society. Her focus is social media and graphic design, but she is passionate about anything within digital marketing. Working at the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce has allowed her to have an up-close view of the growth in Hall County and see all the individuals who make Hall have it all! intern@ghcc.com Ashley Davis, COO, Lawson Air Conditioning & Plumbing, was named one of the nation’s top 40 heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry professionals under age 40 by Air Conditioning, Heating & Refrigeration News (ACHR News). Each year, ACHR NEWS selects 40 individuals under 40 from across the nation doing great things in the HVAC industry. Last year she worked with the Conditioned Air Association of Georgia to launch a scholarship for students enrolling in HVAC programs. With the company’s relationship with local schools and internal training programs, they have been able to double their workforce. Founded in 1946, Lawson serves partners, customers, and vendors with the highest caliber of service for all their HVAC and plumbing needs. lawsonac.com
The Chamber's fourth quarter 2023 Economic Development Report is now available. The report provides an update on Business, Population & Housing, Healthcare, Education & Workforce Development, and more for the Gainesville-Hall County Metro Area. Read the report online at GHCC.com/economic-development.
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November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
• Rushton's Managing Partner Chris Hollifield • The Town of Braselton will usher in the holiday season on Saturday, November received the 2023 CASA Board Member 18 with a fun parade, festival and historic Leadership Award in Georgia. Hollifield tree lighting. Beginning at 10:30am in the has been an active member of the Hallhistoric downtown, the parade will feature Dawson CASA Board for 16 years, serving as floats, antique cars and, of course, Santa Board Chair in 2021-22. He works tirelessly Claus. An all-day festival will be staged to support CASA's mission and advocate for on the Town Green with merchants and the best interests of abused or neglected food trucks, culminating in the annual tree children requiring court intervention in our lighting ceremony. explorebraselton.com community. halldawsoncasa.org • Riverside Preparatory Academy was recently recognized as a 2024 Best School by Niche, an online database for school ratings and statistics. The school was ranked the #1 Best All-Boys High School in Georgia. Riverside Prep in Gainesville is a preparatory boarding and day school serving young men in grades 6-12. Some signature programs offered include aerospace engineering, cyber security and fine arts. Riverside Prep specializes in mentorship, brotherhood and academic achievement. riversideprep.org • Hall County Financial Services 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 Fiscal Year 2022. This is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting, an award received by Hall County for 31 consecutive years. hallcounty.org • The Northeast Georgia History Center at Brenau University announced Greg Payne as its executive director. Payne has a passion for history and an extensive leadership and project management background. He has been a dedicated volunteer with the History Center is the host of the Cool Grandpa podcast, offering insights and resources for grandparents to connect with their grandchildren. negahc.org • The University of North Georgia (UNG) earned high marks for quality and value in the 2024 U.S. News and World Report Best Colleges rankings, moving up to tie for 17th overall among public Regional Universities in the South. UNG ranked No. 1 on the list of Best Colleges for Veterans; No. 1 for Least Debt, schools whose students graduated carrying the lightest debt loads; and No. 3 on the Best Value Colleges list. ung.edu
• The Greater Hall Chamber's 7th Annual Health Hall Awards Luncheon is Wednesday, March 20 (11:30 am - 1:00 pm) at Lanier Technical College, Ramsey Conference Center. Awards will spotlight those in the healthcare industry making a significant impact on our quality of life through excellence in health and wellness. Award nominations are now being accepted. Complete the survey to nominate your favorite healthcare professional or organization at SurveyMonkey.com/r/ HealthyHallNominations2024.Details: Abby Greenwood, 770-532-6206 x 110, or agreenwood@ghcc.com. • The Hall County Government published its first-ever Hall County Magazine this fall, with copies available at all Hall County community centers, library branches and the Hall County Government Center (2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville). The magazine is free and includes stories about public safety, parks and leisure, courts, transportation and infrastructure, technology and more. A digital version of the magazine is available online at hallcounty.org. • Northeast Georgia Health System Foundation’s Medical Center Open Golf Tournament raised over $300,000 to support Unite Us, a technology platform to streamline communication and referrals between community nonprofits and service organizations. Driven by United Way of Hall County, United Us connects individuals and families in one system with social services and help they need in real time. unitedwayhallcounty
Got news?
Email: kwest@ghcc.com
JT Stratford opens in renovated offices
member news New programs help "Career Ready" students Due to the generosity of Doug and Kay Ivester, Lanier College & Career Academy (LCCA) is adding new programs including Auto Collision Lab, Industrial Electrician Courses, Design Media and Cybersecurity. Students will be dually enrolled in these career-ready programs and taught by instructors from Lanier Technical College. LCCA is a Hall County high school that focuses on creating “Career Ready” students. Options are available for full-time and part-time enrollment, as well as several options for Dual Enrollment through Lanier Technical College. Students gain real-world experience through industry-certified classrooms, CTAE pathways, and student-based enterprises. Programs of choice include HVAC, agriculture, marketing, culinary arts, hospitality, tourism and more. LCCA students earn a variety of professional certifications and industry credentials that are sought after within our local business and industry sectors. lcca.hallco.org
Georgia Trend features Gainesville-Hall County Look for the annual spotlight – Gainesville-Hall County: Crowd Favorite – in Georgia Trend magazine's October 2023 issue along with this year's “40 Under 40” Honorees. Georgia Trend covers state business, politics and economic development and has some 49,000 print subscribers and over 160,000 readers. Hall County is striking and liking a special balance, from big business and development to personal advancement and family fun. It’s as impactful as the burgeoning manufacturing sector and a multi-billion-dollar health system and as refreshing as the breeze coming off Lake Lanier. Read the article at GeorgiaTrend.com. A limited supply of the magazine is available at the Chamber.
Fast growth leads to industry expansion Heath Jarrett, President, CMS Mechanical Solutions, announced that the U.S.-based manufacturer of food and further processing equipment relocated to a new 93,000-square-foot headquarters campus at 1400 Bradford Street Ext in Gainesville. The expansion is a result of the company's fast growth in its first seven years of operation. The new campus has six times more square footage than its previous location and houses their business offices, manufacturing, warehousing, R&D, and training center. Jarrett noted that the move was a significant next step to support current customer and manufacturing needs, diversification into additional vertical markets, and future expansion plans into Latin America. Founded in 2016, CMS is a processing equipment and millwright services company that manufactures custom-tailored solutions serving the poultry, turkey, pork, beef, vegetables, fruit, nuts, fish, and pet food industries. cmssolutions.com
JT Stratford Team recently celebrated the opening of their newly renovated offices in Gainesville (L-R) Katie Foodman; Anthony Shope, COO; Amanda Bruner, CCO; Todd Ferguson, CEO; Courtney Tyner, Maggie Smith, Ed Robins. (Back, L-R) Mark Gibbs, Carter Lievens, Jimmy Eggers, Greg Wilson, Bryan Hogan, Travis Echols, James Davenport, Hunter Parker. JT Stratford specializes in financial planning, tax planning and wealth management and provides sound intellectual framework, emotional discipline, and analytical tools to manage client’s assets and achieve their financial objectives. 311 Green Street in Gainesville. 770.534.6046. jtstratford.com
Holiday Events in Downtown Gainesville Kickoff the Holidays on the Downtown Gainesville Square with Jingle Mingle on Saturday, November 18 (4-6pm) featuring open houses at shops, refreshments, live music, carriage rides, kiddie train rides, face painting, Santa and his arrival on a Gainesville Fire Engine, photos with Santa, the Coca-Cola bear, and the grand LIGHTING OF THE CHICKEN! Christmas on Green Street returns Sunday, December 3 (2pm-7pm) with open house visits to historic homes, musical groups, magicians, face painters, balloon artists, storyteller, jugglers, Santa Claus, miniature train rides and food trucks followed by the parade. exploregainesville.org
Nature programs for the community Take a guided hike and celebrate National Take a Hike Day on November 17 (11:00am- 12:30pm) at Elachee Nature Science Center's Dodd and Elachee Creek Trails. Join Kristin Love, Elachee's director of natural resources and conservation. No charge, and registration required. Blast into space with a guided tour of the night sky to see the moon, planets, and seasonal bright stars! Stars Over Elachee is December 16 (5:15-7:15pm) at Chicopee Lake, 2100 Calvary Church Road. $35/telescope, $31.50/member telescope. Up to 5 people per telescope. Elachee sits in the 1,440-acre Chicopee Woods Nature Preserve, one of Georgia’s largest protected and most ecologically diverse green spaces. Register for these events and more at elachee.org
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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meetings
events
calendar of events
November
Eggs & Issues
Featuring the Hall County Legislative Delegation
Thursday, December 7
7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey Conference Center The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce continues to assist local businesses and citizens in communicating concerns and discussing issues with the Hall County Legislative Delegation for the Georgia House of Representatives and State Senate. $40 Chamber Member; $50 Guest; $400 Table (8) Reservations Required. Includes Breakfast. Reservations & Info: Gerri Collins, 770-532-6206 x 106 or gcollins@ghcc.com. Reservations Online: GHCC.com/events
Modern Marketing Workshop Presented by Forum Communications
Wednesday, January 24
Sponsored by
8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Brenau Downtown Center
In just a single year, marketing has seen some of the most dramatic changes of any field of business. But, what does that mean for you? Join Katie Dubnik and Nick Kastner of Forum Communications as they discuss how to use some of the latest technologies while also sticking to the core of what your organization is all about – your brand. Help you find your voice in the ever-changing world of marketing. $20 Chamber Member; $30 Non-Member. Light Breakfast Included. Reservations & Info: Ellie Parker, 770-532-6206 x 115 or eparker@ghcc.com. Reservations Online: GHCC.com/events.
Economic & Political Forecast Discussion with a Panel of Experts
Tuesday, January 30
Friday, November 3
Business Before Hours Hulsey Oliver & Mahar 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. 200 E.E. Butler Parkway | Gainesville Tuesday, November 7
Business After Hours Boot Hall Barn at Bourbon Brothers 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. 312 Jesse Jewll Pkwy | Downtown Gville Wednesday, November 8
Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Thursday, November 9
Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber Friday, November 10
Economic Development Council 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, November 14
Small Business Seminar 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. In person at the Chamber or via Zoom Tuesday, November 14
Ambassadors Council 3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. First Citizens Bank | Gainesville Wednesday, November 15
December Wednesday, December 6
Healthcare & Wellness Seminar 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber Thursday, December 7
Eggs & Issues Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey CC Tuesday, December 12
Small Business Seminar 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. In person at the Chamber or via Zoom Wednesday, December 13
Human Resource Council 11:45 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, December 20
Issues Committee 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber Thursday, December 21
Chamber Executive Committee 12:00 p.m. - 1:30 p.m. | Chamber NOTE: No Board meetings in December.
January
Wednesday, November 15
Wednesday, January 3
Industry Appreciation Luncheon 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey CC
Healthcare & Wellness Seminar 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber
Thursday, November 16
Marketing Workshop 8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m. Brenau Downtown Center
Farm City Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. North Hall Community Center
Join us for a panel discussion with local business and political leaders Carol Burrell, Northeast Georgia Health System; Brian Daniel, Carroll Daniel Construction; Frank Norton, Jr., The Norton Agency, and Phil Sutton, Kubota Manufacturing of America. This dynamic panel will cover the current economic and political climate and the effects on small business and our community. $5 Chamber Member; $15 Non-Member. Light Breakfast Included. Reservations & Info: Abby Greenwood, 770-532-6206 x 110 or agreenwood@ghcc.com. Reservations Online: GHCC.com/events.
Thursday, November 16
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
South Hall Business Coalition Economic Development Update 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Houndstooth Grill | Braselton
Issues Committee 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Chamber
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey Conference Center
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Thursday, November 30
Chamber Board of Directors 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. | Gainesville Civic Center Tuesday, November 28
Vision 2030 Board 11:30 a.m | Chamber
Wednesday, January 24
Tuesday, January 30
Economic & Political Forecast 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Lanier Technical College | Ramsey CC
Stay Up-to-Date:
GHCC.com/events
small business spotlights King of Pops Emily and Michael Jones grew up in Flowery Branch and brought King of Pops to Hall County in Summer 2021. The business grew fast going from one cart to three while adding employees. King of Pop's purpose is to provide UMOHs (Unexpected Moments of Happiness) with all-natural icy treats handmade using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The high quality pops have between three and five ingredients. Emily says that hasn’t stopped them from making almost 500 flavors over the years! They team up with local businesses (like coffee roasters and bakeries) and compost waste locally on their farm. They've given away pops to students at the YMCA's Back-to-School Bash as well as 300+ pops to treat the Hall County Nutritional Staff before they start their school year. King of Pops is available for all types of events – backyard birthday parties, business event, delivery to your door, or at the office. They work with offices, churches, and schools and are available for fundraisers! Contact them at emily.jones@kingofpops.
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CANDLER REAL ESTATE
Onward Reserve in Downtown Gainesville Penny Crow, General Manager of Onward Reserve, at newly opened shop located at Renaissance Gainesville on the Downtown Gainesville Square. Founded in 2012 by TJ Callaway, Onward Reserve was created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products, and the spirit of sporting traditions. Onward Reserve is a lifestyle brand that combines hospitality, customer experience and unique apparel and gifts in an exclusive retail environment both in its own brick and mortar stores and online. Onward is also proud to employ Gainesville natives and Brenau University alumni! onwardreserve.com
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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community development Large Employer Most Fit Company Award
Sherwin Williams Distribution Center (L-R) Gabriela Lens, Matt Blanchard, Area Director of Distribution, Elyse Michali and Ryan Culhane. Sherwin Williams Distribution Center is dedicated to fostering a healthy workforce through a set of comprehensive incentives. From their innovative Rolling Strong program promoting physical well-being to offering fitness reimbursement, Sherwin Williams truly invests in the health of its workforce. They place a premium on work-life balance, with generous time off and go the extra mile by organizing cookouts, family field days, driver rodeos – all fostering a sense of community and fun among employees. Sherwin Williams Distribution Center sets a gold standard in corporate well-being programs. sherwin-williams.com
Medium Employer Most Fit Company Award
Georgia Mountains YMCA
(L-R) Lizzie Kelly, VP of Operations, Rick Little, Robert Childers and Giselly Maldonado. The Georgia Mountains YMCA provides an array of incentives promoting a healthy lifestyle among staff including the provision of complimentary memberships to the J. A. Walters Family YMCA facility, allowing employees access to amenities including a fitness center, diverse group classes, swimming pools, a basketball gym, and an outdoor walking track. Employees can participate in strength or endurance challenges, join swim clubs, participates in blood drives and health screenings, as well as free CPR/First Aid training, Livestrong for cancer survivors, and EnhanceFitness for individuals suffering from arthritis. gamountainsymca.org 14
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Most Fit Company Awards | HealthSmart Greater Hall Chamber Most Fit Company Awards are presented annually as part of the HealthSmart Wellness Expo. Awards are given to employers that sponsored wellness initiatives to improve the overall health of their team members and the community. Most Fit Company awards are presented in three categories: Small (Less than 50 employees), Medium (51-250 employees) and Large employers (251+ employees). 2023 Awards went to Sosebee & Britt Orthodontics, Georgia Mountains YMCA and Sherwin Williams Distributuion Center.
Small Employer Most Fit Company Award
Sosebee & Britt Orthodontics
(L-R) Stacy Kidd, Sherry Mays, practice owners Dr. Todd Britt and Dr. Glenn Sosebee and Becky Foster. Sosebee and Britt Orthodontics is dedicated to providing exceptional orthodontic care and places a strong emphasis on the well-being of its employees. With Orthodontics being dubbed more stressful than most professions, the practice offers mental health benefits to its team members as well as team building activities and the option to speak with a mental health counselor to promote a healthy work-life balance. Sosebee and Britt Orthodontics understands that a mentally healthy workforce is essential for providing top-notch patient care and maintaining a positive, collaborative work environment. sosebeeandbritt.com
Chamber Chase 5K is March 28, 2024 Encourage employee health and fitness by participating in the 16th Annual Chamber Chase 5K Run & 2 Mile Wellness Walk on Thursday, March 28 at the campus of Riverside Preparatory Academy in Gainesville. Sign up a company team an join the fun to compete for the Fastest Team, Fastest CEO or unite in a spirited 2 mile walk. The race features chip timing, commemorative t-shirts, refreshments and age group awards. Spectators and participants are invited to enjoy the beautiful lake-side venue during and after the race. Thursday, March 28, 2024 For sponsorship info or race details, contact Ellie Parker, 770- 6pm | 5K Run | 2 Mile Walk Riverside Prep Academy 532-6206 x 115. Email: eparker@ghcc.com
community development
HealthSmart Highlights At the HealthSmart Breakfast, five surgeons discussed robotic surgery opportunities to patients at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton and NGMC Gainesville. (L-R) Andrew Green, MD, Medical Director of Robotic Surgery, NGMC; Karen Gersch, MD, Cardiothoracic Surgeon, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group; Keshma Saujani, MD, Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Longstreet Clinic; Shan Sharif, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon, Northeast Georgia Physicians; Ron Lewis, MD, Medical Director of Perioperative Services, NGMC. The surgeons have performed over 20,000 robotic surgeries, which often lead to a shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery and less pain.
Carotid Artery screenings were done by the Northside Cardiovascular Institute. Heart Murmur and Atrial Fibrillation were done by the Georgia Heart Insitute. Fall Risk screenings were done by the Rehabilitation Institute of Northeast Georgia Medical Center.
HealthSmart attendees were able to “test drive” the da Vinci surgical system robot to get a glimpse into this cutting-edge technology, which works by mimicking the motions and movements of the surgeon’s hands and fingers in a highly magnified 3D environment. Hundreds of people participated in the HealthSmart Wellness Expo with free community health screenings (Blood Pressure, Body Mass Index, Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Glucose testing and more) by Longstreet Clinic and District 2 Public Health.
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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small business Finding Your Marketing Mix
SMALL BUSINESS SEMINAR Tuesday, November 14
8:15 - 8:30 a.m. Networking | 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Program In Person at the Chamber or via Zoom
"Small Business Loans & Financing Options"
Rick Ellis Delta Community Credit Union
Emily Coker Small Business Access Partners
In today's dynamic economic landscape, small businesses play a pivotal role in driving growth and innovation. Access to capital through small business loans and commercial lending is essential for their success and expansion. Join Chamber Small Business Partners Rick Ellis, Delta Community Credit Union, and Emily Coker, Small Business Access Partners, to gather insight and practical guidance for entrepreneurs, small business owners, and aspiring business leaders.
No Chamber for Chamber Members • Register Online: GHCC.com/events Abby Greenwood, 770-532-6206 x 110 • agreenwood@ghcc.com
The Finding Your Marketing Mix seminar was presented by Britt Sawyer of Sawyer Media Group. (L-R) Abby Loggins and Britt Sawyer, Sawyer Media Group; Lori Thompson, Access WDUN; Susan Williams, Peach State Bank; Julie Garner, The Arts Council. Seminars are sponsored by AccessWDUN, Caldwell Electrical Contractors, Cochran Brothers Electric, Delta Community Credit Union, Gainesville Mechanical, Small Business Access Partners and The Times.
Small Business Resource Fair There was a packed house at the Chamber's Small Business Resource Fair at Lanier Technical College. Keynote speaker Phil Bonelli, Regions Bank, gave an inspirational presentation. Over a dozen businesses and services were on hand to provide resources and free advice on how to finance, brand and grow a small business. Save the date for the Small Business Economic & Political Forecast on Tuesday, January 30 (7:30am) at Lanier Technical College where a panel of business leaders will discuss our economic and political climate and the effects on small business. Details: Abby Greenwood, 770-532-6206 x 110 or agreenwood@ghcc.com. Register online: GHCC.com/events. 16
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Tuesday, December 12
8:15 - 8:30 a.m. Networking | 8:30 - 9:30 a.m. Program In Person at the Chamber or via Zoom
"Hiring & Retaining High Achieving Employees''
Stacey Reece Spherion Staffing & Recruiting
Small Businesses struggle with retaining high achieving employees, and it begins with the hiring process. Learn how to establish realistic expectations for the position during the interview process, what follow up is needed, and how to keep an employee from feeling they have peaked in your company. Spherion Staffing's Stacey Reece will answer these key questions and dive into other related topics. Stacey has owned the Northeast Georgia franchise of Spherion Staffing & Recruiting for over 26 years. Spherion specializes in Professional Hire, Industrial and Clerical Staffing. spherion.com Register Online: GHCC.com/events
Thank You, Small Business Seminar Sponsors!
Stop the Bleed Kits donated to GPD
community development Business After Hours at Boot Barn Hall Live Music • Southern Staples • Dependable Logistics Join us on Tuesday, November 7 from 5-7 pm for an evening of music and connecting cohosted by Hall County’s best live music and event center, Boot Barn Hall, and Gainesville’s own, Syfan Logistics. Opening in June of 2023, Boot Barn Hall is a full-service event center and live music venue bringing you up close and personal with all your favorite artists like Josh Turner, Ricky Skaggs and Drake White. All while serving up American classics and Southern staples from sister restaurant, Bourbon Brothers Smokehouse & Tavern, right next door. Located in Gainesville, Syfan Logistics provides 24-7 logistics nationwide, with a diverse array of shipping services at the highest level of transparency and reliability. With over 38 years of experience, you can count on Syfan for dependable shipping and logistics. When they make a promise, they deliver.
Networking | Door Prizes | Cash Prize Drawing | Food & Drink $8 Chamber Member; $15 Non-Member. Details: Christen Wilbanks, 770-532-6206 or cwilbanks@ghcc.com
Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville and the Healthcare Coalition for Region B of Northeast Georgia recently partnered to donate 30 of the Georgia Trauma Commission’s Stop the Bleed kits to the local Gainesville City Police Department leadership. (L-R) Luke Anderson, Denise Shields, Dr. Cory Duncan, Master Police Officer Jeremy Edge, Officer Barry Edwards, Captain Joshua Adams, Dr. Matthew Vassy, Stacey Helton, Jesse Gibson and Dr. Mohak Dave. Gainesville City Police officers now have the tools needed to avoid the number one cause of preventable death after injury – bleeding. nghs.com
Georgia CASA Honors Chris Hollifield with State Leadership Award Rushton is proud to announce that Managing Partner Chris Hollifield, a longtime Hall-Dawson CASA board member, received the 2023 CASA Board Member Leadership Award in Georgia. The award was presented at the Georgia CASA Conference in August.
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“
10" x 4.75" –MVC–
RUSHTON
I serve CASA because I see the impact CASA makes in a child’s life. We tell their story when no one will listen. In their world, we are the adult in their corner who will speak up for their best interest. – Chris Hollifield
770.287.7800 | rushton.cpa
G A I N E S V I L L E I C U M M I N G I C A R R O L LT O N
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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education
leadership
Leadership Hall County
Youth Leadership Hall
Leadership Hall County's Lake Life Day included Dragon Boat Race Team Building at Lake Lanier Olympic Park. Program sponsors were McDonald’s NEGA (breakfast), Candler Real Estate (lunch) and the Gainesville Convention & Visitors Bureau (program and facility). Leadership Police and Fire Day included visits to the Gainesville Police Training Facility, the Annual Law Lunch at Carroll Daniel Construction, Hall County Emergency Management, Hall County Fire Training Center, and Willard Baxter Firearms & Training Complex. The program was sponsored by local attorneys and LHC graduates: Kate Cook, Cook Law Group; Rustin Smith and Ronny Hulsey, Smith Hulsey; Tom Calkins, Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar; Kelly Miles, Smith, Gilliam, William & Miles; Whitney Brown, Stewart, Melvin & Frost; Jenifer Dimo, Walker, Ball & Dimo.
Youth Leadership Hall's kickoff program was held at Riverside Preparatory Academy where students got to know each other, participated in team building exercises, and heard from local professionals about leadership skills to use in high school and life. (Left) Riverside Cadets Kolaiah Newkirk and Brady Kriegel. (Right) Sarah Gibson and MaKayla Jones, North Hall High School. Thank you program sponsors – Riverside Preparatory Academy and Longstreet Café.
Agriculture Day took Youth Leadership Hall to Jaemor Farms (above) for a history and overview of the farm, the Hall County School District Agriculture Business Center and Hopewell Farms GA. Sponsors for Ag day were Jaemor Farms and Chick-fil-A Gainesville.
Leadership Hall's Dujuana Stringer, Lanier Federal Credit Union, and Dorreka Faulkner, Girls Unlimited, try on Hall County fire fighter uniforms during the Police and Fire Day. 18
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
(Right) Rebekah Halstead, Hudson Everett and Mary Eloise Tymchuk, North Hall High School, at the Hall County Schools Agriculture Business Center.
membership
Business Expo is February 15, 2024
Ambassadors: The Face of the Chamber
Business Chamber Ambassadors volunteer for events, attend ribbon cuttings, hosting gatherings and more. The group recently met at Turner Wood & Smith Insurance. (Front, L-R) Giselly Maldonado, J.A. Walters Family YMCA; Christen Wilbanks, Chamber; Savannah Lackey, United Way of Hall County; Lauren Hunter, Jacobs Media / WDUN; Maria Brana, Alpha Media; Kim Barbani, Associated Credit Union; Connor Murphy, Collision Specialists Inc; Rena Pendley, American Cancer Society. (Back, L-R) Chris Craddock, Craddock Insurance; Melissa Nolan, Harris Products Group; Elizabeth Mattingly, Notary Pros; Marissa Maynor, Chamber; Matt Waters, United Community Bank; Brennan Garrison, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Nicole Pleasant, First Citizens Bank; Jay Lawson, Avison Young.
Network Over Coffee
EXPO 2024
Exhibit space is now available for the Chamber's Business EXPO on Thursday, February 15 at Lanier Technical College (11am-4pm) at the Ramsey Conference Center. The Business Expo is FREE and OPEN TO THE PUBLIC and creates great business exposure! Over 60 exhibitors will participate with outstanding networking and leads development. Booths & Sponsorships: Ellie Parker, 770-532-6206. Email: eparker@ghcc.com
Serving Northeast Georgia 1/4 Page Since 1993Ad 4.91" x 4.75" – DOCUMENT DESTRUCTION–
Chamber members recently met at Boarding Pass Coffee on the Downtown Gainesville Square. Join us for a cup of coffee and networking with business professionals. Call Christen Wilbanks at the Chamber for details, 770-532-6206, or cwilbanks@ghcc.com. Wednesday, November 8 @ 9am – Acuna's Cake Shop in Gainesville Friday, December 1 @ 9am – Schlotzsky's Cinnabon in Gainesville
770-287-9605 info@ddsga.com
WE HAVE A SOLUTION FOR EVERY DATA NEED! November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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ribbon cuttings
Walters Bike Trails | Boys & Girls Clubs
North Georgia Upper Cervical Clinic
Dr. Adrian Thane cuts a ribbon at North Georgia Upper Cervical Clinic, a gentle and specific chiropractic care practice that provides functional testing and neurologically based care to help each client reach their full potential and live life in all its fullness. 6110 Banks Street, Lula, GA 30554. 678-659-8569. northgeorgiauppercervical.com
Chad Hayes, Prima Tappa; Jackie Martin, Fox Factory (cutting ribbon); Scott Bowden, Trail Builder; Northeast Georgia Health System's Sean Couch, Chief Volunteer Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier, staff and volunteers, are joined by students to open the new Walters Bike Trails, located behind the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lanier (BGC), Joseph F. Walters Club at 2094 Memorial Park Drive in Gainesville. Fox Factory's Trail Trust is the company's signature community partnership program that seeks to preserve and expand the trails that connect us. The trails provide a place where kids can go and feel safe, connect with others, and build the skills and confidence they need to achieve great futures. boysgirlsclubs.com
Martin Furniture + Design
New Athletic Fields at the YMCA
Martin Furniture + Design celebrates 78 years in Gainesville as well as new ownership. Owners Savannah and Brian Bailey cut a ribbon at the renovated store and celebrated with their team – Designers Kindle Gee, Jean-Ann Schanie, Jackie Lewis, Debbie Williams, Ansleigh Potts, Jordan Cunnings and Macy Carswell; Delivery Specialists Ben Eades, Avonte' Gober and Griffin Sewell. General Manager Heather Polley and Brand Manager Macie Lee Reeves. Brian and Savannah Bailey and the Martin team are excited to continue the legacy and give their customers a unique and memorable shopping experience. Although ownership is new, Martin still offers the same top quality that has made it Gainesville's furniture store for nearly eight decades. Visit the store at 121 Bradford Street in Downtown Gainesville to see their new look on the inside & outside. 770-534-5238. martinfurnitureanddesign.com
Ricky Martin cuts a ribbon at the new Milton Martin Toyota Athletic Fields at the Georgia Mountains YMCA. The YMCA puts Christian principles into practice through programs, services, and relationships that build healthy spirit, mind, and body FOR ALL. The YMCA takes pride in providing access to resources and services for all families in our community. We stand for healthy living, youth development, and social responsibility. The Milton Martin Toyota Athletic Fields, along with the Frank and Wendi Simpson Walking Trail, are a great addition to the community as we develop today’s youth into tomorrow’s leaders. They provide a safe space where healthy lifestyles are promoted, character is built, and leadership is developed. 2455 YMCA Drive, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-297-9622. gamountainsymca.org
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November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
ribbon cuttings
NoFo Brew Co Gainesville
North Georgia FCA
Clint Fair, multi-area director, officially opens North Georgia Division of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes' new offices at 300 Spring Street in Downtown Gainesville. North GA FCA covers 26 counties throughout North Georgia with a staff of over 80 team members committed to pursuing FCA’s mission of leading high school and college coaches and athletes into a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. North GA FCA offices are housed in a unique, beautifully renovated building owned by Casey and Joshua Ryals. Since 1954, FCA has been challenging coaches and athletes on the professional, college, high school, junior high and youth levels to use the powerful platform of sport to reach every coach and every athlete. ngafca.org
THRIVE Coworking Marianna Soper and Natalie Salvador, Community Managers; Chris Smith, Chief Revenue Officer, Tim Evans, Chamber, celebrate the opening of THRIVE Coworking, a purpose-driven work environment for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and employees of both large and small businesses, combining design-forward style and thoughtful amenities with philanthropy and social engagement. The beautiful location on the Downtown Gainesville Square is the perfect setting for coworking or private office space in the walkable downtown area. 100 Main Street SW in Gainesville. 404-234-4762. workatthrive.com
Promote your company with a FREE Ribbon Cutting Ceremony.
The NoFo Brew Co team gathered to celebrate the opening of the Gainesville brewery – Lauren Zimmerman, Accounting Manager; Liv Ryan, Cellarwoman; Sara Fornes, Director of HR & Culture; Topher Phillips, Marketing & Events Manager; Joe Garcia, Co-owner & CEO; Eliana Barnard, Director of Marketing & Events; Andrew Greene, Head Brewer; Chris Rogers, Director of Operations; Jonny Bradley, Director of Brewing & Distilling Operations; Justin Kendrick, Assistant Distiller. NoFo Brew Co’s name is a nod to where they established their original location as Forsyth County’s first official craft brewery and distillery. NoFo was founded by Bryan Miles, Shannon Miles and Joe Garcia - three friends with a passion for craft beer, craft spirits and a perpetual craving for adventure. As their roots extended, so did their brewery with new locations around North Georgia. Today, they’re focused on providing an upscale, family-friendly environment centered around great craft beer, hand-crafted cocktails and amazing hospitality to the local community. Visit their newest location NoFo Brew Co Gainesville at 434 High Street SW in Midland Gainesville. 678.771.8116. nofobrew.co
Longstreet Clinic's All About You Shoppe Visit Longstreet Clinic’s All About You Shoppe at its new location. See all they offer in specialty products including synthetic wigs, bras, breast prosthetics, post-surgical camisoles, turbans, caps and compression therapy products. Private consultations are offered with a certified fitter. 705 Jesse Jewell Parkway, Suite 390 in Gainesville. 770-297-5633. longstreetclinic.com It's a free service if you're a member of the Chamber. Not a member? Join now, call 770-532-6206.
November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
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Aderholdt Cleaning Service Monika Aderholdt PO Box 11 • Cleveland GA 30528 - Cleaning Service (706) 809-9274
new members
Averitt Scott Haynes 1156 Old Norcross Road Lawrenceville GA 30046 - Trucking (800) 283-7488 | averittexpress.com
Business After Hours
Keller Williams Lanier Partners Karen St John 631 Dawsonville Highway Gainesville GA 30501 - Real Estate (678) 617-4656 | karenstjohn.kw.com
CLS Plumbing Lisa Cronic 6076 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch GA 30542 - Plumbing (678) 769-7800 | clsplumbingllc.com
Liquid & Dust Chris Byers 5406 Technology Pkwy, Suite 3 Braselton GA 30517 - Specialty Items (470) 461-1086 | liquidanddust.com
Colliers International Scott Plomgren 1230 Peachtree St., Suite 800 Atlanta GA 30309 - Commercial Real Estate (404) 372-2151 | colliers.com
Loretta's Country Kitchen Grant Nichols 4305 Mundy Mill Road Oakwood GA 30566 - Restaurant (770) 535-0703 lorettascountrykitchen.com
Diamond Spa & Nails John Vo 3630 Thompson Bridge Rd #19-20 Gainesville GA 30506 - Nail Salon (678) 450-4755 diamondnailsgainesville.com
Thank you Key Optique for hosting Business After Hours on a beautiful fall evening complete with food from Southern Baked Pie, networking and fun games. Dr. Keylee Clemons Brown (left) and her staff at the Thompson Bridge Road location. Key Optique offers the highest quality of optometry care – comprehensive eye exams, glasses and contacts, glaucoma, dry eye and red eye treatments – all with state-of-the-art equipment and technology.
G&A Partners Brandon Orth Gainesville GA 30506 - Business Services (678) 447-2511 | gnapartners.com
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November • December 2023 | GreaterHallChamber.com
Junk Gigolo Sean Barton Flowery Branch GA 30542 - Waste Disposal (770) 605-8251 | junkgigolo.com
BTD Manufacturing Janet Jackson 55 Impulse Industrial Drive Dawsonville GA 30534 - Industrial & Manufacturing (706) 531-2422 | btdmfg.com
Thank you Conditioned Air Systems for hosting the September Business After Hours and Annual Tailgate Party. Chamber members celebrated CAS's 40 years in business while feasting on food from The Varsity. (L-R) Andy and Brooke Kalinauskas; Mike Magnus, Doug Magnus, Kenny Gee, and Baya Pruitt. Don't miss Business After Hours at Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers on Tuesday, November 7 (5-7pm) in Downtown Gainesville.
Want to promote your company and host a Business After Hours? Contact Christen Wilbanks, 770-532-6206, cwilbanks@ghcc.com.
Jaslinks Healthcare Services Chioma Mbonu 2282 Meadow Church Road Suite 400 • Duluth GA 30097 - Healthcare (770) 771-7202 | jaslinks.com
Gainesville Cabinet Co. Noey Guajardo 2035 Atlas Circle Gainesville GA 30501 - Contractor (770) 630-3148 HD Roofing & Spray Foam Hunter Dowling 5633 Atlanta Highway Flowery Branch GA 30542 - Roofing (678) 978-5826 hdroofingandsprayfoam.com Home Instead Tammi Smith 115 1/2 Bradford St NW, Suite 210 Gainesville GA 30501 - Home Health (770) 534-5880 | homeinstead.com Industrial Properties Group Palmer Loggins PO Box 364 Gainesville GA 30503 - Real Estate (770) 561-3751 | ipgproperties.com
Puzzle Piece Pastries Brittany Chadwick 1398 Thompson Bridge Road Gainesville GA 30501 - Non-Profit Bakery (678) 696-8319 puzzlepiecepastries.org RJ's Reliable Construction Rhodes Jones Gainesville GA 30501 - Architect/Engineer (770) 561-3445 rjsreliableconstruction.com Smitty's Cigar Lounge Don Thompson 975 Dawsonville Highway Suite 8 Gainesville GA 30501 - Cigars/Tobacco (770) 539-9006 | smittyscigars.com Spirit Staffing Alfonso Hernandez 1000 Rucker Blvd. Enterprise AL 36330 - Employment Staffing (334) 475-5011 tryspiritstaffing.com SRS Real Estate Partners Chip Watson 3445 Peachtree Road NE Atlanta GA 30326 - Real Estate (404) 290-3118 | srsre.com
Luma Montessori Neisee Williams 1967 Jesse Jewell Parkway Gainesville GA 30501 Story Mundy Mill - Education Reanna Tucker (770) 659-7116 | lumamontessori.com 4000 Mill Spring Circle SW Oakwood GA 30566 Matthew Broom - Apartments Clarkesville GA 30523 (770) 573-9900 - Individual Member storymundymill.com (706) 372-3366 The Finch Nichol's Diner Katy Perdue Grant Nichols 1010 Rosefinch Landing 4603 Southerland Drive Hoschton GA 30548 Flowery Branch GA 30542 - Apartments - Restaurant (706) 906-6734 (770) 536-3532 | nicholsdiners.com thefinchbraselton.com Panel Systems Unlimited Kevin Kutchback 4789 Hammermill Road Tucker GA 30084 - Office Equipment (770) 908-9626 panelsystemsunlimited.com Pipe Dream Prints Lydia Wilson-Fields 470 Woods Mill Rd, Suite A5 Gainesville GA 30501 - Screen Printing (678) 617-4685 | pipedreamprints.com Pure Pho & Grill Bien Tran 833 Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 210 Gainesville GA 30501 - Restaurant (678) 696-8355 purephogainesville.com
TSE Commercial Roofing Lance Justus 100 Main Street SW Gainesville GA 30501 - Commercial Roofing (470) 596-0444 | tseroofing.com Vendetti's Pizza, Pasta & Grill Cindy Mendoza 434 High Street, Suite B Gainesville GA 30501 - Restaurant (470) 239-3398 vendetispizzapastagrillga.com
Why I support local neWs “I think Gainesville Times does a great job of KEEPING US INFORMED so that we can better support each other.” -JP McKenzie, Meadowlark Coffee owner, chamber member and Times subscriber
Economic & Political Forecast Tuesday, January 30 Lanier Technical College
8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. | Ramsey Conference Center
Carol Burrell President & CEO NEGA Health System
Brian Daniel President & CEO Carroll Daniel Const.
Frank Norton, Jr. CEO & Chairman The Norton Agency
Modern Marketing Workshop Wednesday, January 24
8:30 -10:30am Brenau Downtown Center On the Square in Downtown Gainesville
Phil Sutton Vice President Kubota
Join us for a panel discussion with local business leaders on the current economic and political climate and the effects on small business and our community. Reservations Required. $5 Chamber Member; $15 Non-Member. Includes Light Breakfast. Abby Greenwood, 770-532-6206, agreenwood@ghcc.com
Business After Hours
Tuesday, November 7 | 5-7 pm Boot Barn Hall at Bourbon Brothers
Modern Marketing Change is in the Air.
Artificial Intelligence. Machine Learning. Influencers. Short Form Video. In just a single year, marketing has seen some of the most dramatic changes of any field of business. But, what does that mean for you? Katie and Nick from Forum Communications will discuss how to use some of these latest technologies while also sticking to the core of what your organization is all about – your brand. Join us as Katie Dubnik, Forum Communications visionary and connector and Nick Kastner, Forum’s brand and digital director, help you find your voice in the ever -changing world of marketing.
312 Jesse Jewell Pkwy | Downtown Gainesville Sponsored by
Bourbon Brothers • Boot Barn Hall • Syfan Logistics
$20 Chamber Member • $30 Non-Member • Registration Required • Light Breakfast Register online at GHCC.com/EVENTS Info: Ellie Parker, 770-532-6206 x 115. Email: eparker@ghcc.com
MARK YOUR CALENDAR Tuesday, November 14 Small Business Seminar Small Business Financing 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Chamber and via Zoom
Thursday, November 16 Farm City Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. North Hall Community Center Open to the Public
December 7 Eggs & Issues Breakfast 7:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center
Wednesday, November 15 Industry Appreciation 2023 Industry of the Year Awards 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Lanier Technical College Ramsey Conference Center
Thursday, November 30 South Hall Business Coalition Economic Development Update Sponsored by Funari Realty 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Houndstooth Grill | Braselton
Tuesday, December 12 Small Business Seminar Hiring & Retaining Employees 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. Chamber and via Zoom
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