business link july 2012
DESCRIPTION
Business Link July 2012TRANSCRIPT
Georgia’s history of progress is, in part, a tale of investment in transportation. Beginning with the port of Savannah in the 1700s and an extensive rail network in the 1800s, Georgia grew strong and prosperous because our ancestors understood the importance of building these vital economic connections.
It happened again after World War II with the development of the world’s most utilized international airport. We became the leader of the New South when we added a first-rate highway system that
tied together our rural and urban communities and connected Georgia to the rest of our country.
Today, after decades of inadequate and inefficient transportation investment, our future economic growth is threatened by crumbling infrastructure and inadequate capacity. We are now challenged to invest in our continued growth and prosperity, and it is critical that we, like our ancestors, step up to the generational responsibility of maintaining and expanding our state’s transportation network.
That challenge will appear on the ballot this July in each of the state’s 12 transportation regions. Georgians will be asked to approve a one-percent increase in the sales tax to fund strategic transportation infrastructure projects.
Reaching this decision point was a sometimes challenging exercise in local and statewide planning and cooperation. For almost a year,
city and county officials in each region compiled lists of important improvements. The Georgia Department of Transportation studied those lists and coordinated the requests. The result is a plan for $16-19 billion worth of projects to be funded over the next 10 years by the one-percent increase.
Here’s why this process makes sense for Georgia:• Local officials and citizens – those most knowledgeable about local needs – put together the lists. • Funds for those projects will be raised and spent entirely within those districts. The first 75 percent will fund each region’s projects and the remaining 25 percent will be given to the region’s cities and counties to spend on hometown transportation improvements with the greatest impact.
In other words, local decision makers determined local transportation needs and will receive 100 percent of the new revenues in their region to address those needs. Local communities are taking care of themselves, not waiting for action from Washington. Continued on page 5.
B u s i n e s s L i n kChairman's Columnpage 2
New Chamber Leadership Team, page 2
TSPLOST Updates and Projectspages 4 -5
Upcoming Eventspage 6
Member Announcementspage 10
Ribbon Cuttingspage 12
New Memberspage 13
Small Business Developmentpage 14
Education & Workforcepage 15
G r e a t e r H a l l C h a m b e r . c o m
A Publication of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Save the Date
J U LY2 0 1 2
Thursday, July 10South Hall Business Coalition
Tuesday, July 31TSPLOST Voter Referendum
Tuesday, August 14Small Business Success Seminar
Governor Deal outlines his support for transportation infrastructure projects and the TSPLOST Referendum
The TSPLOST vote is July 31. Vote early starting July 9 at the Hall County Elections Office in the new Hall County Government Center, 2875 Browns Bridge Road at McEver Road in Gainesville. For a list of projects, maps and detailed TSPLOST information for the Georgia Mountains Region, visit online: ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org
Transportation ReferendumVOTE on JULY 31
Governor Nathan Deal
NORTH GEORGIACHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Welcome to a new year of activity, collaboration and fellowship for our Chamber. It is right that we begin this year by recognizing last year’s chair, Jay Jacobs, and his leadership team for a remarkable term of ser-vice. Jay’s theme—communicate, promote and prosper—served us well in a year when our Chamber remained vibrant and our membership strong despite the tough economy. Thanks, Jay, for a job well done.
This year’s theme is jobs, jobs, jobs! In this economy, we are fortunate that new industries are joining our community and existing industries are expanding. Tim Evans and Shelley Davis do an outstanding job of recruiting new industry and helping existing industries promote and maintain jobs. Thanks to our 155 HALLmark investors, the City of Gainesville, Hall County, Flowery Branch and Oakwood, the Greater Hall Chamber is able to have a first class economic development staff working everyday to create jobs and add to our tax base.
On July 31, 2012, we will have an opportunity to vote on an important economic enhancement. The TSPLOST will stimulate new activity in our community and create a significant number of jobs. Economists
say that consumer-spending drives seventy percent of the economy, so these new jobs will benefit us in many ways. I urge each Chamber member to go to the polls on July 31 (early voting begins July 9) and vote for the TSPLOST. This is one important way to add jobs.
As we begin this year, the new leadership team and I encourage you to be in touch with us and with Kit Dunlap and the Chamber staff throughout the year. The Chamber sponsors numerous programs to help members improve business operations and educate us about local, federal and state issues that may impact all kinds of businesses in our region. In terms of all our offerings, we want to know what is working well and what we can improve. Our goal is to have the best year ever for an organization that continues to set the standard of excellence for our local community, the region and the state.
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Volume 18 Issue 7mcKemie West, editor • email: [email protected]
greaterhallchamber.com
emily Bagwell, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard, Walker
William Bagwell, Jr., Homestead Investments
Karen Baston, Sperry Van Ness
Col. James Benson, Riverside Military Academy
William H. Beyer, NEGA Heart Center
Carol Burrell, NEGA Health System
stacey Dickson, Lake Lanier CVB
Danny Dunagan, Mayor City of Gainesville
Dr. merrianne Dyer, Gainesville City Schools
sam evans, City of Oakwood Councilman
Andi Farmer, Milton Martin Honda
Kathy Fauscett, Keller Williams Realty
Tony Funari, Mayor Pro-tem, Town of Braselton
lance Gardner, Georgia Power
Rob Geoffroy, The Atlanta Falcons
John Geyer, J Geyer Advertising
mike Giles, Georgia Poultry Federation
Dr. Bonita Jacobs, North Georgia College & SU
Dr. John Kennedy, Lakeview Academy
mike miller, Mayor, City of Flowery Branch
Dr. Randy Pierce, Gainesville State College
James Nix, Mayor, City of Clermont
Tom oliver, Chairman, Hall Co. Commission
Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint & Design
Bob Pennington, Willis Investment Counsel
larry Poole, Mayor, City of Gillsville
spence Price, Prime Pak Foods
Will schofield, Hall County Schools
Dr. ed schrader, Brenau University
Joyce stephens, United Community Bank
Dennis stockton, The Times
Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort
milton Turner, Mayor, City of Lula
melissa Tymchuk, NEGA Health System
Russell Vandiver, Lanier Technical College
Dr. mary Watkins, Watkins Chiropractic
Davis White, Full Media
Darrell Wiley, J&J Foods
Philip Wilheit, Jr., Wilheit Packaging Materials
Phil Bonelli, Wells Fargo
John Breakfield, Breakfield & Associates
Burton Brown, First Command Financial Planning
Namon Collins, Allstate Insurance
Brett Fowler, Turner Wood & Smith
Joy Griffin, United Way of Hall County
Brian Hollis, Hollis Transport Agency
lane Jones, Highland Mountain Beverage
megan martin, American Security Shredding
Cindy Reed, Keep Hall Beautiful
Charles White, Community Volunteer
emily Whitehead, Milton Martin Toyota
B u s i n e s s L i n k
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012-2013 executive Committee
ChairmanRandall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost
Chairman ElectDixie TrueloveTruelove Dairy
TreasurerJody lail, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia
Vice Chair, Economic DevelopmentChris BraswellPB Property Management
Vice Chair, Education elisabeth Baldwin BB&T Wealth Management
Vice Chair, Government AffairsDavid lee, Jackson EMC
Vice Chair, Marketing and CommunicationsJullie King, The Longstreet Clinic
Vice Chair, Membership DevelopmentJimbo Floyd, Turner Wood & Smith Insurance
Vice Chair, South Hall CouncilBrian Cantel, Cantel Wealth Management
Vice Chair, Community DevelopmentDeborah mack, Volunteer
Chair, VISION 2030Carl Romberg, Citiscomeg Nivens, Executive Director
Co-Chairs, HALLmarkDavid Abee, Regions BankPerry Barnett, Rushton & Co.Paul Chambers, AT&T
Senior AdvisorPhilip Wilheit, sr., Wilheit Packaging
Immediate Past ChairmanJay Jacobs, Jacobs Media Corp. President & CEOKit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Board of Directors 2012-2013
Associate Directors 2012-2013
staff
Jobs, Jobs, Jobs!
Randall FrostStewart, Melvin & Frost2012-13 Chairman, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
ExecutiveKit Dunlap, President/CEOJoy sims, Executive Assistant
Economic DevelopmentTim evans, Vice Presidentshelley Davis, Vice President Existing IndustryJean mcCullough, Project Manager
Finance & OperationsDavid umberson, Vice President Finance and Human Resources
Education & Workforce DevelopmentDana miller, Vice President
Government AffairsKit Dunlap, President/CEOJoy sims, Executive Assistant
South Hall CouncilKit Dunlap, President/CEOmichelle Wiley, Membership Vice President
Community DevelopmentRobin Halstead, Vice President
VISION 2030meg Nivens, Executive Director
Membership Developmentmichelle Wiley, Vice PresidentKara Tate, Membership Coordinator
Marketing & CommunicationsKemie West, Business Link Editor/Consultant
Greater Hall Chamber Welcome CenterRobin Halstead, Manager
New Chamber Leadership Team Kit Dunlap (left), President & CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce with 2012-13 Chairman Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost, Chairman-Elect Dixie Truelove, Truelove Dairy, and Immediate Past Chairman Jay Jacobs, Jacobs Media.
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Chairman Randall Frost is Managing Partner in the law firm of Stewart, Melvin & Frost, LLP in Gainesville and has practiced law since 1971. Randall graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in finance and from the Mercer University School of Law. He is a past president of several community organizations including the Gainesville Kiwanis Club, The Arts Council, the Northeastern Bar Association, the Gainesville City Board of Education, the Hall County YMCA, and United Way of Hall County. He is a former recipient of the Distin-guished Service Award from United Way and the Boys and Girls Club as well as the Hearts of Gold Award from the American Heart Association. He has been recognized as both The Arts Council and YMCA Volunteer of the Year. Randall is currently a member of Grace Episcopal Church, the Gainesville Kiwanis Club, The Arts Council, Salvation Army Advisory Board, the Northeastern Bar Association and State Bar of Georgia. He is a long-time supporter and volunteer of the Chamber and is a graduate of Leadership Hall County. Randall and his wife, Susan Henson Frost, have two grown children. Continued on page 10.
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www.ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org Paid for by Citizens for Better Transportation Region 2 Georgia: Hall County
The Transportation Investment Act allows voters in the Georgia Mountains region to provide funding for transportation projects over a 10-year period through a one percent sales tax. The Georgia Mountains region includes Banks, Dawson, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union, and White counties. All money raised in the region will stay in the region.
TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT ACT
Investment Opportunity Hall County and its municipalities will be better equipped with the transportation infrastructure to attract economic development and create jobs.
GAINESVILLE-HALL COUNTY FACTS
Key Points The regional project list
was developed by local elected officials and will be voted and supervised by the public.
75% of all funds raised in the region will be spent on regional projects.
25% of all funds raised in the region will be returned directly to local jurisdictions.
Hall County would receive approximately $360 million in total – a $1.45 return for every $1 raised.
Project Highlights 1. New Interchange on
I-985, North of SR/13 Atlanta Highway near Martin Road.
2. Jesse Jewell Pkwy and John Morrow Pkwy Intersection Improvements.
3. McEver Road Intersection Improvements at Gaines Ferry, Lights Ferry, and Stephens Road.
4. Widening of Sardis Road Connector from SR 60/Thompson Bridge Road to Sardis Road.
5. Widening of Spout Springs Road from Hog Mountain Road to Gwinnett County Line.
6. Widening of SR 211/Old Winder Highway
from SR 53/Winder Highway to Gwinnett County Line.
7. Widening of US 129/SR 11/Athens Highway from SR 323/Gillsville Highway to SR 323 in Jackson County.
8. Widening of US 129/SR 11/Cleveland Highway from Nopone Road to White County Line.
9. Widening of US 129/SR 11/Cleveland Highway from Limestone Pkwy to Nopone Road.
Economic Development: Opportunity to create jobs, improve quality of life, and take advantage of the ‘recipient’ status.
Shortfall: $1.3 billion over the next 30 years with the current Federal and State funding levels.
Declining Gas Tax Revenues: Due to improved vehicle gas mileage and reduced vehicle miles traveled.
Growing Area: Over 200% increase in population and employment numbers by 2040.
Regional Destination: For education, employment, tourism, and healthcare purposes.
For additional information contact: Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, [email protected], (770) 532-6206 For project information contact: Srikanth Yamala, Transportation Manager, Gainesville-Hall MPO, [email protected], (770) 531-6809
Transportation Voter Referendum July 31, 2012 We may not get another chance to say “yes” to create jobs and improve our transportation network.
ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org
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July 3, 2012 • An A
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Citizens have a choice. The regions that approve the ballot question will get to use the money for their own local and regional improvements. Those that turn down the investment opportunity may save pennies, but will miss an important opportunity to position for economic growth and the jobs and dollars that come with it. Why is this investment such an important step? First of all, this comes at a time when roads and bridges around the state need critical maintenance. Secondly, population growth has outstripped our investment in transportation infrastructure, and we must add capacity to catch up.
As we seek to make Georgia more competitive economically, it is imperative that we have a highway system that promises business access to and from markets for both their people and products. Inadequate asphalt, system bottlenecks and the gridlock they create choke off economic activity.
For more than 250 years, Georgians have understood the value of investment in transportation infrastructure. Today, leaders on the local level have risen to the task. Now it’s our turn. I urge voters to understand the importance of keeping Georgia connected, to learn more about the plans for improvements in your region, and to encourage others to support the plans.
The ballot will ask Georgians to make a decisive investment in transportation. Regions that approve this investment will take a big step in the direction of securing Georgia’s economic future.
Gov. Deal, TSPLOST, continued from page 1
For a list of projects, maps and detailed TSPLOST information for the Georgia Mountains Region, visit online: ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org
The South Hall Business Coalition will meet on Tuesday, July 10 from 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. at the Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch. South Hall road projects plus the TSPLOST Referendum on July 31 will be discussed by Todd Long, Deputy Commissioner of GDOT; Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer and Srikanth Yamala, Gainesville-Hall MPO. All South Hall citizens are encouraged to attend and learn the details on projects in the area including the 347 / Friendship Road and Spout Springs Road Widening Projects.
The meeting is sponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN AM-FM Radio. Cost is $5 per person, and the meeting is open to the public. Coffee and light break-fast available. Networking begins at 8:00 a.m. The program begins at 8:15 a.m. For reservations, contact Michelle Wiley at the Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Get all the details and make reservations for this and other Chamber events online at GreaterHallChamber.com
Transportation Update by GDOT
TSPLOST: Fact vs. FictionThe 2012 TSPLOST is an opportunity for all Georgians to take control of their future by choosing to make significant investments in transportation projects that are vital both to the economy and quality of life throughout the state. With the upcoming vote on July 31 nearing, there are several misconceptions floating around about this one-penny sales tax.
FICTION: Money goes to GDOT in Atlanta and doesn't come back to the region.FACT: The GDOT never receives any money from the Transportation Improvement Act (TIA). All monies collected locally will be spent locally with NO exceptions.
FICTION: The gas tax should be raised instead of the TIA.FACT: The gas tax is a declining source of revenue. As people drive more fuel ef-ficient cars and buy less gas, less revenue is raised to support the existing network. A 25 cent/gallon increase in the gas tax would be required to match TIA.
FICTION: TIA subsidizes MARTA and expensive transit projects.FACT: Outside Region 3 (Atlanta), no money is spent on MARTA. Some regions contain local transit projects (mostly bus service) selected by local elected officials.
FICTION: We will endure economic damage and loses to local businesses.FACT: Every penny that is raised in the local regions will be spent on local projects with local oversight. Additional transportation funding will jump-start Georgia’s economy, provide more jobs in each region and make our roads safer.
FICTION: Taking on these projects is dangerous and costly for our region.FACT: All of the projects have been scaled to meet the funds made available by the passing of the TSPLOST. These projects include vital transportation improvements that will help create jobs and increase economic investment in local communities.
FICTION: The high increase of transportation spending is too excessive in light of the current recession. A tax increase is never the answer to an economic recovery.FACT: Despite our fast-growing population, Georgia spends less per capita on transportation than almost any other state. This is beginning to make our state less attractive to employers and is negatively impacting our quality of life as Georgians. An investment in transportation will generate jobs, foster economic development, and ensure safety on the roadways.
FICTION: The project selections only benefit special interest groups.FACT: The projects were selected by local officials in a transparent process with public input. Projects were required to have a regional impact. All Georgians will see the benefit of these projects through safer roads and more jobs.
FICTION: There are no guarantees the projects will be built as stated.FACT: A Citizens Review Panel of five citizens will oversee the finances and con-struction in each region. Projects must be built as approved by voters in each region.
For more facts on Georgia's TSPLOST, visit online:ConnectGeorgia2012.com
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www.ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org Paid for by Citizens for Better Transportation Region 2 Georgia: Hall County
The Transportation Investment Act allows voters in the Georgia Mountains region to provide funding for transportation projects over a 10-year period through a one percent sales tax. The Georgia Mountains region includes Banks, Dawson, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union, and White counties. All money raised in the region will stay in the region.
TRANSPORTATION INVESTMENT ACT
Investment Opportunity Hall County and its municipalities will be better equipped with the transportation infrastructure to attract economic development and create jobs.
GAINESVILLE-HALL COUNTY FACTS
Key Points The regional project list
was developed by local elected officials and will be voted and supervised by the public.
75% of all funds raised in the region will be spent on regional projects.
25% of all funds raised in the region will be returned directly to local jurisdictions.
Hall County would receive approximately $360 million in total – a $1.45 return for every $1 raised.
Project Highlights 1. New Interchange on
I-985, North of SR/13 Atlanta Highway near Martin Road.
2. Jesse Jewell Pkwy and John Morrow Pkwy Intersection Improvements.
3. McEver Road Intersection Improvements at Gaines Ferry, Lights Ferry, and Stephens Road.
4. Widening of Sardis Road Connector from SR 60/Thompson Bridge Road to Sardis Road.
5. Widening of Spout Springs Road from Hog Mountain Road to Gwinnett County Line.
6. Widening of SR 211/Old Winder Highway
from SR 53/Winder Highway to Gwinnett County Line.
7. Widening of US 129/SR 11/Athens Highway from SR 323/Gillsville Highway to SR 323 in Jackson County.
8. Widening of US 129/SR 11/Cleveland Highway from Nopone Road to White County Line.
9. Widening of US 129/SR 11/Cleveland Highway from Limestone Pkwy to Nopone Road.
Economic Development: Opportunity to create jobs, improve quality of life, and take advantage of the ‘recipient’ status.
Shortfall: $1.3 billion over the next 30 years with the current Federal and State funding levels.
Declining Gas Tax Revenues: Due to improved vehicle gas mileage and reduced vehicle miles traveled.
Growing Area: Over 200% increase in population and employment numbers by 2040.
Regional Destination: For education, employment, tourism, and healthcare purposes.
For additional information contact: Kit Dunlap, President/CEO, Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce, [email protected], (770) 532-6206 For project information contact: Srikanth Yamala, Transportation Manager, Gainesville-Hall MPO, [email protected], (770) 531-6809
Transportation Voter Referendum July 31, 2012 We may not get another chance to say “yes” to create jobs and improve our transportation network.
ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org
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Monday, July 9Primary Election Early Voting Begins(TSPLOST Referendum is July 31)8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – New Hall County Government Center, 2875 Browns Bridge Road at McEver Road in Gainesville
Tuesday, July 10South Hall Business CoalitionTSPLOST + 347 / Friendship Road & Spout Springs Road Widening Projects featuring Todd Long, Deputy Commissioner of GDOT; Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer and Srikanth Yamala, Gainesville-Hall MPO 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch
Tuesday, July 10Ambassadors Council3:45 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, July 11Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – Chick-fil-A, 400 Pearl Nix Parkway in Gainesville
Wednesday, July 11Human Resources11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant in Downtown Gainesville
Wednesday, July 18Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber
Wednesday, July 18Leads Group11:30 a.m. – Turnstile Deli
Thursday, July 19Chamber Executive Board11:30 a.m. – Chamber
Friday, July 20New Member Breakfast8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Featherbone Com-muniversity in Gainesville
Wednesday, July 25Network Over Coffee8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m. – BabyCakes Mini Cupcake Bakery & Lunch Café, 3575 McEver Road in Gainesville
Tuesday, July 31VOTE! Primary Election(TSPLOST Referendum is July 31)7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. – Polls Open
NOTE: NO Chamber Board of Directors Meeting in July. The next Board meeting is Thursday, August 23, 12:00 p.m. at the Gainesville Civic Center.
AUGUST 2012
Tuesday, August 14Small Business Success SeminarIdentify, Compete, Win Government Contracts presented by Joe Beaulieu, Government Con-tract Counselor, Georgia Tech7:45 a.m.-9:00 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity
Thursday, August 16Business After HoursSponsored by Budget Carpet Outlet & Gainesville Paint Design Center5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. – 662 Main Street in Midtown Gainesville
Get details and make reservations for these and other Chamber events online at greaterhallchamber.com
Tuesday, July 108:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Spout Springs Library in Flowery Branch$5 per person • Open to the PublicSponsored by Milton Martin Honda and WDUN AM-FM Radio
South Hall Transportation Update:TSPLOST + 347 / Friendship Road & Spout Springs Road Widening Projects
South Hall road projects plus the TSPLOST Referendum on July 31 will be discussed featuring Todd Long, Deputy Commissioner of GDOT; Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer and Srikanth Yamala, Gainesville-Hall MPO. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206.
South Hall Business Coalition
Mark your calendar with these 2012-2013 Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Events. Specific times and locations TBD:
Wednesday, October 10, 2012: 6th Annual HealthSmart Expo
Wednesday, November 14, 2012: Annual Farm City Breakfast
Thursday, December 13, 2012: Annual Eggs & Issues Legislative Forum
Wednesday, January 23, 2013: Industry Appreciation Luncheon
Friday, February 15, 2013: Annual Arbor Day Celebration
Friday, February 22, 2013: Buy Local Business Expo
Friday, April 12, 2013: 34th Annual Hacker's Holiday Golf Tournament
Thursday, April 18. 2013: 6th Annual Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk
Thursday, May 9, 2013: 105th Greater Hall Chamber Annual Meeting & Gala
2012-2013 Events
Friday, July 208:00 - 9:00 a.m.Sponsored by Crystal SpringsFeatherbone Communiversity999 Chestnut Street in GainesvilleNo Charge • Complimentary Breakfast
New Chamber Members are invited to join Greater Hall Chamber officers and staff for an orientation and complimentary breakfast. Get the most of your membership... attend this function and learn the benefits and how to get involved. Reservations: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
New Member Breakfast
1/4 Page Ad2 columns 4.4167 x5
Now, more than ever...our world needs Godly men and women equipped as Christ Followers and World Leaders for the Kingdom of God.
Dear Friends
We invite you to discover what we and many others believe to be true
– that North Georgia Christian School is a very special place. As we
approach our 30th year of service to our Lord Jesus Christ, we rejoice in
what the Lord has done at North Georgia. Through His grace, the school
has strong roots, great people and an exciting vision for future service.
Strong Roots - Founded by Christian leaders responding to a critical need
in North Georgia for a Biblically-centered education for our young people,
North Georgia has a history of outstanding success in life-changing
Christian education. It has grown to be a prominent regional school while
retaining its strong Biblical roots. Thousands of students over the past
three decades have taken their NGCS education into every corner of our
globe to serve the Kingdom in a variety of professions and ministries.
Great People - While our academic programs are producing young people
who score in the upper echelons of national tests, we are also blessed to
have talented and dedicated teachers who literally invest their lives in
our students. They provide a foundation of Christian mission, leadership
training and bold vision for each of our future world leaders.
Exciting Vision - North Georgia Christian School is perfectly positioned
for the future. God is opening new doors for expanded educational
ministry, leadership development and academic excellence in the
coming decades. We are intensely focused on the future challenges and
opportunities of American schools, Christ’s Church, and our needy world.
With blessings and gratitude,
Al Gainey, Board Chair
NORTH GEORGIA
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
We are Moving to Chestnut Mountain - Now our vision is becoming a reality. NGCS is moving its campus to the Chestnut Mountain area and will be located in a transitional campus at Chestnut Mountain Church beginning this fall. This campus offers large classrooms, great recreation and sports facilities, new playing fields and playgrounds, terrific technology and science labs, and much, much more. We anticipate growing to a school of over 1000 K-12th grade students in this new location. We invite members of the Chamber and the community to come and see what God is doing at North Georgia Christian School.
North Georgia Christian School partners with parents to equip K5 -12 students to become Christ Followers and World Leaders impacting the world for God’s Kingdom through a Biblically-integrated, Christian Worldview Education.
When fully developed, our new Model Campus will provide: ♦ Excellent classrooms at all levels ♦ New and expanded labs for science ♦ An Auditorium for chapels & performing arts ♦ A Double Gymnasium and Recreation space ♦ First rate Athletic fields and facilities ♦ Music rehearsal space for chorus and band ♦ Larger, modern computer & tech labs ♦ The latest technology integrated into classes ♦ Full Kitchen and luncheon facilities ♦ Office suites & meeting facilities ♦ Meeting and Conference Space ♦ A Christian Leadership Library ... and more!
Now, more than ever...our world needs Godly men and women equipped as Christ Followers and World Leaders for the Kingdom of God.
Dear Friends
We invite you to discover what we and many others believe to be true
– that North Georgia Christian School is a very special place. As we
approach our 30th year of service to our Lord Jesus Christ, we rejoice in
what the Lord has done at North Georgia. Through His grace, the school
has strong roots, great people and an exciting vision for future service.
Strong Roots - Founded by Christian leaders responding to a critical need
in North Georgia for a Biblically-centered education for our young people,
North Georgia has a history of outstanding success in life-changing
Christian education. It has grown to be a prominent regional school while
retaining its strong Biblical roots. Thousands of students over the past
three decades have taken their NGCS education into every corner of our
globe to serve the Kingdom in a variety of professions and ministries.
Great People - While our academic programs are producing young people
who score in the upper echelons of national tests, we are also blessed to
have talented and dedicated teachers who literally invest their lives in
our students. They provide a foundation of Christian mission, leadership
training and bold vision for each of our future world leaders.
Exciting Vision - North Georgia Christian School is perfectly positioned
for the future. God is opening new doors for expanded educational
ministry, leadership development and academic excellence in the
coming decades. We are intensely focused on the future challenges and
opportunities of American schools, Christ’s Church, and our needy world.
With blessings and gratitude,
Al Gainey, Board Chair
NORTH GEORGIA
CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
We are Moving to Chestnut Mountain - Now our vision is becoming a reality. NGCS is moving its campus to the Chestnut Mountain area and will be located in a transitional campus at Chestnut Mountain Church beginning this fall. This campus offers large classrooms, great recreation and sports facilities, new playing fields and playgrounds, terrific technology and science labs, and much, much more. We anticipate growing to a school of over 1000 K-12th grade students in this new location. We invite members of the Chamber and the community to come and see what God is doing at North Georgia Christian School.
North Georgia Christian School partners with parents to equip K5 -12 students to become Christ Followers and World Leaders impacting the world for God’s Kingdom through a Biblically-integrated, Christian Worldview Education.
When fully developed, our new Model Campus will provide: ♦ Excellent classrooms at all levels ♦ New and expanded labs for science ♦ An Auditorium for chapels & performing arts ♦ A Double Gymnasium and Recreation space ♦ First rate Athletic fields and facilities ♦ Music rehearsal space for chorus and band ♦ Larger, modern computer & tech labs ♦ The latest technology integrated into classes ♦ Full Kitchen and luncheon facilities ♦ Office suites & meeting facilities ♦ Meeting and Conference Space ♦ A Christian Leadership Library ... and more!
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• Early voting for the Primary Election is July 9-27, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Mon-day-Friday at the Hall County Board of Elections and Voter Registration, 2875 Browns Bridge Road in Gainesville. The office is also open on Saturday, July 21, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Polls are open on July 31 from 7:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. De-tails, 770-531-6945. hallcounty.org• Former Chamber Board member and Atlanta Falcons Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Greg Beadles was recognized as the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 2012 CFO of the Year in the community service category. He has been an executive officer with the Falcons for 11 years and with the club for 18 years, beginning his career in 1995 as an intern in the Falcons' finance department. atlantafalcons.com• Hall County Parks & Leisure introduces a new volunteer program to Hall County residents. Parks are in need of community-minded individu-als interested in helping beautify a local park. Details: Kelly Norman, Volunteer Coordinator, 770-535-8280 ext. 228 or email: [email protected]• Grace Fricks, President and CEO of ACE, recently attended the White House Business Council and Business Forward event in Washington D.C. Fricks met with the business and civic leaders from Atlanta to discuss jobs, the economy and ways the Administration and the Atlanta Business Council can work together. aceloans.org• Nominations are now accepted for the Master Craftsman, Builders of America awards to be presented on November 1 at Featherbone Commu-niversity. The awards honor individuals who excel at their craft and have made a lasting impact on Northeast Georgia with their work. Nominations accepted in several trade categories. Deadline for nominations is July 24. For details, email Dr. Carroll Turner, Lanier Tech MDC: [email protected]• Jim O’Dell, Safety Manager of Kip-per Tool Company announced the company's milestone of 1,000 days without a Lost Workday injury case. kippertool.com • Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia announced veteran banker Mickey C. Hyder, Jr. has joined the mortgage services team, HeritageBank of the South, housed at Chattahoochee Bank in Gainesville. Hyder started Chase Mortgage Corporation in 1993, where he served as President for 19 years prior to joining HeritageBank’s Mortgage Di-
vision. Chattahoochee Bank announced Dr. D. J. Campbell, Aesthetic Center of Gainesville & Braselton, and Tony Herdener, CFO of Northeast Georgia Health System, have joined the bank's Advisory Board. chattahoocheebank.com• Pro View Foods founder B. Jan Cooley received prestigious designa-tion from the Association for Corporate Growth’s Atlanta Chapter for global growth in revenue and employment. Cooley founded Kings Delight, 1987-2002, and started Pro View Foods in 2007, a food service poultry provider for schools, institutional, private label and commodity exports, operating three plants in Gainesville and Braselton and employing 350. proviewfoods.com• M3 Hotel Accounting of Gaines-ville provides solutions to over 3,000 properties, processing over $8 billion in financial transactions annually. Over the last year, M3 has seen adoption of their product lines increase exponentially in the U.S., and recently expanded service offerings to clients in Canada. m3as.com• Gainesville Phoenix Woman’s Club's 4th Annual Luncheon is August 11 at the Frances Meadows Center, 11:00 am-2pm with proceeds supporting “For Her Glory” Foundation, to preserve the dig-nity, self esteem, and sense of well-being of cancer survivors. Guest Speaker is Ginny McCormack, cooking instructor, speaker, food columnist and author of Sunday in the South. Tickets, $25. Brenda Martin, 770-536-4159. • Quinlan Visual Arts Center is having a summber membership drive. Join now and and enjoy invitations to all exhibi-tion receptions, discounts on classes, and 100% tax deduction on dues. All new and renewing members will be entered into a drawing for a special gift basket. quinlanartscenter.org• To honor all that retiring president Martha Nesbitt has done fo Gaines-ville State College, the community and higher education, the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia an-nounced that the Academic IV Building has been officially renamed the Martha T. Nesbitt Academic Building. gsc.edu• AT&T has expanded its 4G LTE network in the metro Atlanta market, including service to Gainesville and Flowery Branch. The new service can deliver mobile Internet speeds as much as ten times quicker than 3G. att.com
GOT NEWS?Email: [email protected]
Chairman Elect Dixie Truelove is a native of Hall County and a second generation dairy farmer operating Truelove Dairy, Inc with her brother, Jerry. Dixie has served as Vice Chair of Government Affairs and community Development for the Chamber and has been involved with VISION 2030, SPLOST campaigns, and is a recipient of the W.G. Mealor Chairman's Award. She is a graduate of Leadership Hall County, Leadership Georgia, and currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Leadership Georgia. She is a past president of WomenSource and the Junior League of Gaines-ville-Hall County. Dixie and her husband, Mike Smith, reside in Clermont.
President and CEO of the Greater Hall Chamber since 1998, Kit Dunlap has spear-headed several multi-million dollar private business initiatives such as HALLmark, that has funded successful economic, education and community development pro-grams, VISION 2030 and the Chamber building renovation in Downtown Gainesville.
Kit's leadership has guided the Chamber to solid ground with a membership base of 2,400 individuals and a professional staff of 12 people. A native of Jasper, Alabama and a Brenau College graduate, Kit is at the top of the industry among fellow Cham-ber executives and has a strong economic development background. She served on the Board of the Georgia Department of Industry, Trade & Tourism (Georgia Depart-ment of Economic Development) for 10 years and as chairman for two years. She is a founding member of the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council and served as the council's first chairman in 1992.
Kit is currently serving as co-chair of the Citizens for Better Transportation, Region 2, representing a 13-county area in North Georgia. The group's mission is to promote and support the TSPLOST Referendum on July 31. She is a Board member for the Northeast Georgia Medical Center, SunTrust Bank Northeast Georgia and on the Board of Trustees at Brenau University. She is a former Chairman of the Metro North Georgia Water Planning District Board and Vice President of the 1071 Coali-tion, dedicated to maintaining water levels in Lake Lanier that sustain water supply, recreation, and economic prosperity.
New Leadership Team, cont. from page 2
The June Business After Hours was hosted by The Gardens, a 36-homesite community Gainesville neighborhood set within a forest sanctuary between Dixon Drive and Piedmont Road. The Gardens recently underwent a multi-million dollar redevelopment by McKibbon-Robison with an array of amenities including a swimming pool, pavilion and sidewalks. All proceeds from the event went to the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia. Don’t miss the next Business After Hours on Thursday, August 16 at Budget Carpet / Gainesville Paint & Design at 662 Main Street in Midtown Gainesville with food, drinks, networking, and a cash pot prize! $5 for members, $15 for non-members. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
Dana Miller, Greater Hall Chamber Vice President Education; Event Sponsors Steve McKibbon and Robbie Robison, The Gardens; Rick Aiken, Executive Director, Humane Society of Northeast Georgia; Julie Edwards and Florence Aiken, Humane Society of Northeast Georgia.
Business After Hours
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Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap with State Senator Butch Miller and Representatives Doug Collins, Emory Dunahoo and Carl Rogers at the Chamber's Industry Roundtable. Over 65 people attended the event sponsored by Jackson EMC.
Industry Roundtable
(L-R): Chamber President & CEO Kit Dunlap with Jessica Gramling and Lisa Lassiter, Belk; Kirsten Boettcher and Mike Weinberger, Lakeshore Mall, at the Business Before Hours hosted Lakeshore Mall with breakfast catered by Panera Bread.
Business Before Hours The Ambassador Council's Quarterly Awards included 1st Place: Rosanne Short, Brenau University; 2nd Place: Megan Martin, American Security Shredding; 3rd Place: David Purvis, Breakfield & Associates; Ambassador of the Year: Bill Kokaly, Cox Communications; Ambassador Silver Shovel: Rosanne Short, Brenau University; New Ambassador of the Year: David Purvis, Breakfield & Associates; Chamber MVP: Charles White; Meeting Attendance Award: Andrea Brock, Turner, Wood & Smith Insurance; Ribbon Cutting Award: James Wright, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrad & Walker. The Ambassador Council is co-chaired by Andrea Brock, Turner, Wood & Smith, and Rosanne Short, Brenau. For more on the Ambassador Council or how to get involved, contact Membership Coordinator Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]
Ambassador Council Awards
Business After Hours
Business After Hours at Wilson Orthodontics new office in Flowery Branch was a great success. Don't miss the next Business After Hours at Budget Carpet Outlet / Gainesville Paint Design Center on Main Street in Midtown Gainesville on Thursday, August 16 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. with the Cash Pot Prize and other great prizes! Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. greaterhallchamber.com
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Julie West, Matt Creel, Allison Spar-row, Lee Tankersley, Andrea and Ryan Hendrix cut ribbon at The Ryan Hendrix State Farm Agency in Flowery Branch, a full service insurance and financial services State Farm Agency. The agency's mission is to secure in the minds of our community, along with its friends and neighbors, that The Ryan Hendrix State Farm Agency exists to build long, standing relationships, manage risks, educate, and always be there whenever life happens. 7380 Spout Springs Road, Suite 110, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-7789. ryanhendrixinsurance.com
Ryan Hendrix State Farm Agency
Chris Barnes, FICF, and Pat Frappampina, FICF CLF, cut ribbon for Woodmen of the World, a 122 year old fraternal, life insurance organization. The organization provides life, retirement and health solutions for families, seniors and businesses along with commonsense, simple solutions in our complicated economic environment. They have in excess of $10 billion in admitted assets and are A+ superior rated by A.M. Best. 525 Candler Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-654-1256. woodmen.org
Woodmen of the World
Jimmy Widjaja, Michael Culver, Kelly Pattison, Julie Soltis, Deborah Moon, and Christopher Shy cut ribbon at Skip Barber Racing School in Braselton, a leader in automotive education and entertainment for 37 years, moving countless alum up the professional motorsports ladder as well as making driving safer for thousands of people per year from across the country. Fre-quenting many world renowned tracks, Skip Barber Racing School hosts 5 arrive and drive race series per year in addition to driving schools, racing schools and corporate/private events. 5290 Winder Highway, Braselton, GA, 30548. 800-221-1131. skipbarber.com
Skip Barber Racing School
Sheila and Fernando Sanchez, along with family and friends, cut a ribbon for the State Farm Insurance Agency. Sheila Sanchez and her vibrant team assists Gainesville and the surrounding community in obtaining the best value in all insurance and financial needs. 3030 McEver Road, Suite 110, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770-536-9400. sanchezagent.com
State Farm / Sheila Sanchez
Thank You Chamber SponsorsComTran Group • The Gardens • Georgia Power • Jackson EMC
Jacobs Media Corporation • Lakeshore Mall • Milton Martin Honda Montara Farm • Northeast Georgia Health System United Community Bank • WDUN AM-FM Radio
Kid's Dentistry of North Georgia opened a second loca-tion at 7316 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch to serve the South Hall and surrounding areas. Dr. Ryan M. Vaughn is a board certified pediatric dentist on staff at both the Northeast Georgia Medical Center and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. 678-450-7011. kidsdentistryga.com
Kid's Dentistry of North Georgia
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esAntebellum Nicholas St. Clair 5510 Church StreetFlowery Branch, GA 30542(509) 496-3576 - Restaurant antebellumrestaurant.com
BabyCakes Mini Cupcake Bakery & Floral Resia McFarland 3575 McEver RoadGainesville, GA 30504 (770) 536-7306 - Bakery and Florist babycakescupcakebakery.net
Boyd's Cleaning Services, Inc. Kevin Boyd 794 Main StreetGainesville, GA 30501(770) 536-5830 - Cleaning Service boydscleaning.com
Chris Brechtel 960 Chattahoochee Drive Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 943-0801 - Individual Membership
Catamount Constructors, Inc.Keith Johnson 10 Mansell Court East, Suite 150Roswell, GA 30076 (770) 518-2522 - Construction Services catamountconstructors.com
Homestar Financial Shan Ryder377 Shallowford RoadGainesville, GA 30504 (678) 971-4690 - Mortgage shanryder.com
Inspired Real Estate Consult-ing, Inc. Nathan Schroeder 1032 Old Peachtree RoadSuite 401-141 Lawrenceville, GA 30043(404) 626-7877 - Consulting
Kid's Dentistry of North GeorgiaRyan Vaughn 7316 Spout Springs RoadSuite 102Flowery Branch, GA 30542(678) 450-7011 - Pediatric Dentist kidsdentistryga.com
Madison Retail, LLC Sue East 3625 Cumberland Boulevard Suite 530Atlanta, GA 30339 (770) 818-4130 - Real Estate madisonretailllc.com
S.I Communications, AT&T Authorized Retailer Shabaz Gillani 4009 Winder HighwaySuite 265Flowery Branch, GA 30542678) 989-0280 - Cellular Phones
Select Pest Control SystemsJeff Blackwell 1786 Browns Bridge RoadGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 536-8837 - Pest Control selectpestcontrolsystems.com
Sport Clips David Wachendorfer 890C Dawsonville HighwayGainesville, GA 30501 (678) 267-3540 - Hair Salon sportclips.com
Turner Construction Andy Davis 3560 Lenox RoadSuite 1100Atlanta, GA 30326(404) 504-3706 - Construction turnerconstruction.com
Learn all the benefits of Cham-ber membership and join online at greaterhallchamber.com!
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Welcome New Members Chamber Staff Spotlight
Chamber Leadership Programs
The 2012-2013 Leadership Hall County Class kicked of their year at Northeast Georgia Health System and Laurelwood and ended the day at Beth Baldwin’s (Class of 2005) home for a social. Sponsored by NGHS and the Leadership Advisory Committee.
Youth Leadership Hall attended a day-long retreat at Montara Farm where the class participated in competitive activities. The class took part in graduation ceremonies, and Chamber Chair Jay Jacobs presented plaques to the 55 students. Thanks to Montara Farm for their generosity and to Georgia Power for sponsoring lunch.
Meet the Greater Hall Chamber of Com-merce Membership Team – Michelle Wiley, Vice President of Membership Development, and Kara Matter Tate, Membership Coordinator.
Michelle Wiley joined the Chamber in March 2007 as Membership Coordinator. Along with Kara, she guided one of the most successful membership campaigns in Chamber history in 2011 netting over 100 new members. She also implemented pro-fessional networking groups for members including the successful Leads Group and
the growing South Hall Business Coalition. She manages membership recruitment and retention programs, Business After Hours, Hackers Holiday, the Annual Gala, Buy Local Business and HealthSmart Expos, the Chamber Chase 5K as well as the Marketing and Membership committees. Michelle is a Walton County native and a graduate of Brenau University. Michelle and her husband, Chris, a City of Gaines-ville Firefighter/EMT have one daughter.
Kara Tate joined the Greater Hall Chamber staff as Membership Coordinator in 2011. A Lumpkin County native and graduate of North Georgia College & State University, Kara served as an intern with the Chamber in 2010. Kara oversees the Ambassador Council, new membership recruitment, Leads Group, Network Over Coffee, and ribbon cuttings. Kara also assists in membership retention efforts. She recently married Dustin Tate. To join the Chamber, call Kara, 770-532-6206.
Michelle WileyVice President, Membership, Greater Hall Chamber
Kara TateMembership Coordinator, Greater Hall Chamber
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Julie West, Matt Creel, Allison Spar-row, Lee Tankersley, Andrea and Ryan Hendrix cut ribbon at The Ryan Hendrix State Farm Agency in Flowery Branch, a full service insurance and financial services State Farm Agency. The agency's mission is to secure in the minds of our community, along with its friends and neighbors, that The Ryan Hendrix State Farm Agency exists to build long, standing relationships, manage risks, educate, and always be there whenever life happens. 7380 Spout Springs Road, Suite 110, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 770-967-7789. ryanhendrixinsurance.com
Ryan Hendrix State Farm Agency
Chris Barnes, FICF, and Pat Frappampina, FICF CLF, cut ribbon for Woodmen of the World, a 122 year old fraternal, life insurance organization. The organization provides life, retirement and health solutions for families, seniors and businesses along with commonsense, simple solutions in our complicated economic environment. They have in excess of $10 billion in admitted assets and are A+ superior rated by A.M. Best. 525 Candler Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-654-1256. woodmen.org
Woodmen of the World
Jimmy Widjaja, Michael Culver, Kelly Pattison, Julie Soltis, Deborah Moon, and Christopher Shy cut ribbon at Skip Barber Racing School in Braselton, a leader in automotive education and entertainment for 37 years, moving countless alum up the professional motorsports ladder as well as making driving safer for thousands of people per year from across the country. Fre-quenting many world renowned tracks, Skip Barber Racing School hosts 5 arrive and drive race series per year in addition to driving schools, racing schools and corporate/private events. 5290 Winder Highway, Braselton, GA, 30548. 800-221-1131. skipbarber.com
Skip Barber Racing School
Sheila and Fernando Sanchez, along with family and friends, cut a ribbon for the State Farm Insurance Agency. Sheila Sanchez and her vibrant team assists Gainesville and the surrounding community in obtaining the best value in all insurance and financial needs. 3030 McEver Road, Suite 110, Gainesville, GA 30504. 770-536-9400. sanchezagent.com
State Farm / Sheila Sanchez
Thank You Chamber SponsorsComTran Group • The Gardens • Georgia Power • Jackson EMC
Jacobs Media Corporation • Lakeshore Mall • Milton Martin Honda Montara Farm • Northeast Georgia Health System United Community Bank • WDUN AM-FM Radio
Kid's Dentistry of North Georgia opened a second loca-tion at 7316 Spout Springs Road in Flowery Branch to serve the South Hall and surrounding areas. Dr. Ryan M. Vaughn is a board certified pediatric dentist on staff at both the Northeast Georgia Medical Center and Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. 678-450-7011. kidsdentistryga.com
Kid's Dentistry of North Georgia
The Norton AgencyKey Economic Indicators
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Biotrauma, Inc. was founded by Ryan Sawyer, a U.S. Marine who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom. While in Iraq, Ryan was assigned to the Marines Mortuary Affairs division, where his unit became the first Marines ever trained to collect, catalogue and clean-up the dead in a foreign battle zone. In Iraq, the scope of his task grew into a humanitarian mission. His biohazard cleanup services were used to secure any dead body, friendly, enemy or innocent by-stander. More than a necessity of war, Ryan’s job became imperative to the morale of fellow troops. Having recent battle scenes lay unattended could be disheartening to even the most battle-tested Marine, and Ryan saw the difference their service could make in the lives of others. After his tour of duty, Ryan wanted to use his training and experience as a Marine to help those back home who were facing the reality of a tragedy. He began Biotrauma with the mission to offer the most professional and efficient clean up of a violent or unattended death scene by restoring it to its original condition. As a result of their experience and professionalism, Biotrauma, Inc. has become a nationwide leader in biohazard cleanup methods in just a few short years. The growth has allowed Biotrauma to provide much needed services to families in need all over the Southeast. Biotrauma, Inc., 999 Chestnut Street, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-256-6595. biotrauma.com
Small Business of the MonthBiotrauma, Inc.
Biotrama Inc.'s Ryan Sawyer, President/CEO, and Deirdre Lohn, VP of Sales and Marketing.
Participants at the Chamber's June NetWeaving Seminar included (L-R): Charlie Hawkins, Norton Insurance; Jeff Skorput, Gainesville Physical Therapy; Chamber Small Business Council Chair Doug Langman, TRC Staffing; Jean McCullough, Chamber Economic Development Project Manager.Stanley Swain, Church Nerds Productions.
Small Business Development
The Chamber recently held its first NetWeaving Seminar. The program seeks to as-sist small business professionals in building a community of NetWeavers who share this same ‘give FIRST in order to receive’ philosophy. NetWeaving does not replace networking, but NetWeaving efforts will far out-perform those from more tradi-tional networking. Learn more from Bob Littell, Chief NetWeaver, at netweaving.com. Don't miss the Small Business Success Seminar on August 14 as Joe Beaulieu, Government Contracting Counselor with the Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center, discusses how to obtain a government contract. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: [email protected]. Online: greaterhallchamber.com
Permits Issued - Hall County
Housing Area Permits May May Apr Total 2012County 2012 2011 2012 2011 YTDBarrow 12 2 6 25 16 Dawson 3 4 1 34 9
Gwinnett 98 48 83 555 275 Forsyth 136 102 257 1,099 567
Jackson 2 2 1 22 6
Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home May Avg May Avg Apr Avg Total Avg Total AvgArea 2012 Price 2011 Price 2012 Price 2011 Price 2012 Price
City 9 155,333 21 126,234 18 97,320 180 132,902 54 142,180
North 45 151,371 37 169,272 27 182,233 384 203,902 119 153,844
East 23 70,302 29 78,686 16 66,720 238 79,629 74 71,939
South 17 202,832 26 142,114 21 121,930 296 131,000 80 174,700
West 50 176,246 60 199,355 60 159,388 558 182,192 190 179,083
Previous Month
Apr 2012
19
Latest
May 31One Year Ago
May 2011
20
2011 Total
1802012 YTD
89
Updated 6/27
The Power To Perform
Data compiled by the Norton Agency. For additional information or other data products, please call:
Tommy Howard The Norton Agency 770-718-5204 [email protected]
Key EconomicIndicators
Greater Hall County
Latest
May 2012
6.9Previous Month
Apr 2012
7.2One Year Ago
May 2011
7.8
10
8
6
4
2
2 0 1 1
EmploymentHall County
Updated 6/27
Area Jobless Rates
Gainesville City 7.5
Cherokee 7.1Dawson 7
Forsyth 6.6
Gwinnett 7.6
Jackson 8.5
Ga Mountains 7.5State of Georgia 8.9
U.S. 8.2 M J J A S O N D J F M A M
Perc
ent
LatestMay 2012
$208,524,188Previous Month
April 2012$233,517,141
One Year Ago
May 2011$209,931,980
Retail Sales
Hall County retail sales figures are estimated from the 1% sales tax collected for Hall. For example, $11 million in tax revenue represents retail sales of approximately $100 million.
Hall County
Updated 6/27
3.0
100’
s m
illion
s of
dol
lars
J A S O N D J F M A M
1.0
2.0
2 0 1 1
12-Month HighJuly 20118.9%
2 0 1 2
2 0 1 2
Gainesville City Employees awarded their first "You're the Reason Scholarship" to Alyssa Simms, a graduate of West Hall High School. The $1,000 scholarship was created to help the children of City employees and is funded by employee contributions. Alyssa will be attending Gainesville State College. (L-R): Myrtle Figueras, Gainesville City Council, Jason and Laura Simms (parents); Alyssa Simms; Ruth Bruner, Gainesville City Council; Dana Miller (Judge), Greater Hall Chamber; Bob Hamrick, Gainesville City Council; Nikki Young (Judge), Hall County Government.
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(L-R): Dr. Shane Rayburn, Oakwood Elementary Principal; students Zach Mullinax, Anthony Ferrara and Sammy Shepard; Chamber Vice President of Education Dana Miller; Dr. Eloise Barron, Hall County Assistant Superintendent for Teaching and Learning; Partner in Education Representative Greg Davis, Atmos Energy. Oakwood Elementary School recently hosted their 1st Annual Leadership Day with guests from Cobb County, Atlanta City and Fulton County Schools, Lovett, several out of state schools, Partners in Education representatives, state and Chamber officials. “Leadership Day” events are held by elementary schools going through The Leader in Me process – opening their doors to the community for a one-half day for students to showcase their leadership skills, staff to share successes, and highlights of the leadership philosophy driving the culture of the school. theleaderinme.org
Partners in Education
City Student Scholarship Winner
The TSPLOST vote is July 31, 2012.Vote early starting July 9th at the Hall County Elections Office in the new Hall County Government Center, 2875 Browns Bridge Road at McEver Road in Gainesville. For a complete list of projects, maps and detailed TSPLOST information for the Georgia Mountains Region, visit online:ConnectGeorgiaMountains.org
Small Business Marketing Workshop Tuesday, February 14
Marketing TrendsPresented by Gordon Sawyer
8:00 - 10:00 a.m. – The Oaks at Lanier Charter Career Academy
Business After HoursThursday, February 16
5:00 - 7:00 p.m.Luna's Restaurant 200 Main Street
Hunt Tower in Downtown Gainesville
Arbor Day CelebrationFriday, February 17
10:00 a.m.Frances Meadows Center
Safe & Green Regional AssemblyFriday, February 24
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.Georgia Mountains Center
Annual Transportation ForumWednesday, March 1411:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Gainesville State College
Job Fair and Career ExpoWednesday, March 2810:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Georgia Mountains Center
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events
Get Details & Register Online:greaterhallchamber.com
U.S. POSTAGE PAIDPERMIT #47
GAINESVILLE, GA
CAR-RT SORT
This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.
South Hall Business CoalitionTuesday, July 10
TSPLOST + 347 / Friendship Road & Spout Springs Road
Widening Projects featuring Todd Long, Deputy Commissioner
of GDOT; Bayne Smith, GDOT District 1 Engineer and Srikanth Yamala, Gainesville-Hall MPO
8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Spout Springs Library
in Flowery Branch
Small Business SeminarTuesday, August 14
Identify, Compete and Win Government Contracts
Presented by Joe BeaulieuGovernment Contract Counselor
Georgia Tech Procurement Assistance Center
7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Lanier Tech's Manufacturing
Development Center at Featherbone Communiversity
Business After HoursThursday, August 165:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.Budget Carpet Outlet
Gainesville Paint Design Center662 Main Street in Gainesville
Back Page Ad10 x 7.5
Upcoming Chamber Events
Get Details & Register Online:greaterhallchamber.com
MEMBER FDIC
643 E. E. Butler Parkway • (770) 536-0607 • www.chattahoocheebank.com
your success is our differenceMost banks claim that their difference is “customer service”.
At Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia, our focus is on customer success.
When you are ready for a banking partner dedicated to your success, call us at (770) 536-0607 or stop by our office located at 643 E. E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville.
your success is our difference