The Greater Hall Chamber's Annual Membership Campaign is underway now through September 18. Volunteers are seeking to develop new busi-ness relationships and recruit 100 new members. Team Leaders include Andrea Brock, Norton Insurance; Kevin Clary, Edward Jones Investments; Sean Johnsen, iCard Now; Mary Jane Locklear, Cox Communications and Electronics; Steve Naughton, Community Volunteer; Chris Nish, Home Instead Senior Care; Michele Piucci, Chattahoochee Bank of Georgia and Kate Schermerhorn, Eagle Carpet Care.

Chamber Members enjoy numerous benefits including group health insurance discounts, advertising opportunities, monthly networking events, committee participation, small business development and more. A Special Incentives Package is available when you join the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce NOW through September 18, 2012.

Join today! Call Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce Membership Coordinator Kara Tate at 770-532-6206. Email: ktate@ghcc.com or join online at greaterhallchamber.com

B u s i n e s s L i n kChairman's Columnpage 2

Existing Industriespage 4

Healthcare Reform Guest Columnpage 5

HealthSmart Expopage 5

Upcoming Eventspage 6

Member Announcementspage 10

Ribbon Cuttingspages 11-12

New Memberspage 13

Small Business of the Monthpage 14

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

S E P T E M B E R2 0 1 2

Friday, September 14Business Before Hours

Thursday, September 20Business After Hours

Tuesday, September 25South Hall Business Coalition

Join the Chamber NOW!

Special Incentives Package is available when you join the Greater Hall Chamber NOW through September 18, 2012:

• Business Directory Listing on Chamber’s website (Value: $50)

• Processing/Initiation Fee waived (Value: $35)

• Membership CD with 3,000 Chamber Members (Value: $200)

• Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and Business Link newsletter coverage

• Event Coupons to upcoming Chamber events (Value: $15 per event)

• 48-hour crawler message on AccessNorthGA.com's homepage

• The Times: 50% off a Business Link newsletter advertisement

• Business Information Listing in the Chamber’s Business Link newsletter

• Invitation to the New Member Breakfast and Orientation on October 5

Healthcare Reform Seminar

Thursday, September 138:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.

Georgia Mountains Center

This seminar will update businesses and the community on how we are all affected by Healthcare Reform with discussion with experts in the field and a booklet for participants on Healthcare Reform. $15 Chamber Members; $20 non-members. Registration required. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Online Reservations: greaterhallchamber.com

TOPICS for DISCUSSION• Do I need to change my health insurance plan and when?• What will Healthcare Reform do to the rates I am paying?• How will Healthcare Reform affect my employees?

8:30-9:00 a.m. Light Breakfast 9:00-10:30 a.m. Program10:30-11:00 a.m. Q&A

Take Home Healthcare Insurance

Reform Booklet!

Open to Public

Panel of Experts

Q&A Chamber Membership Incentives

Healthcare has become an increasingly important part of the Greater Hall Chamber’s Program of Work and is big business in Gainesville-Hall County. The Northeast Georgia Health System, area physician’s groups, and other health-related businesses continue to make our community the medical hub for healthcare in North Georgia. Insurance and home care agencies, pharmacies, non-profit health agencies, exercise and wellness industries, retail products for healthcare, technology, educational and senior citizen services – the list is mind-boggling. In fact, every business is affected by healthcare, from cost of benefits for employees to providing access to quality medical care. Healthcare is a vital issue to existing businesses and to businesses looking to relocate to Gainesville-Hall County.

The Greater Hall Chamber’s Healthcare Committee was initiated six years ago through VISION 2030 to provide a forum for educating our members and the community on healthcare issues. Led by co-chairs Chad Bolton, Northeast Georgia Health System, and Dr. Linda Barrow, Lanier Technical College, the Healthcare Committee oversees a set of community-wide programs and events and meets monthly to

discuss access to healthcare, wellness programs and benefits, healthcare services, legislative issues, and health insurances. Programs developed through this group include the Annual HealthSmart Expo, Most Fit Company Awards, and the popular Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk.

The Annual HealthSmart Wellness Expo is Wednesday, October 10 at the Georgia Mountains Center and will showcase some 70 healthcare, wellness businesses and service products. In addition to exhibits, free public health screenings will be available from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Now in its sixth year, the event continues to be one of VISION 2030’s most successful initiatives.

As part of the HealthSmart event, the Chamber conducts a survey to seek the “Most Fit Company” in Gainesville-Hall County. The program seeks to raise company wellness awareness and promote healthy workplaces in our community. Sign your company up for the competition. The survey is available online (greaterhallchamber.com), and the deadline to complete the award survey is September 28. Call Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206, for details.

The Annual Chamber Chase 5K & Wellness Walk involves corporate and community teams and includes education and training opportunities for the participants focusing on physical activity and nutrition. Completing its fifth year, the Chamber Chase has become one of the community’s most successful wellness programs. In April 2012, over 2,000 people participated in some aspect of the race. The 2013 race is Thursday, April 18 at Riverside Military Academy.

On Wednesday, September 13, we are offering Chamber members and the public a Healthcare Reform Seminar. The event will include discussion on how Healthcare Reform affects businesses and individuals. Call the Greater Hall Chamber, 770-532-6206, to register or make reservations for this important event or others online at greaterhallchamber.com

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Volume 18 ISSue 9mcKemie West, editor • email: kwest@ghcc.com

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

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 Raymond James/Morgan Keegan

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

Healthcare: Big Business in Hall County

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

Business After Hours(L-R): Jason Everett, Budget Carpet (event sponsor); Bob Hamrick, Gainesville City Council; Michelle Wiley, Chamber; Tony Paramore, Gainesville Paint (event sponsor); Rocky Pridgin, Lifeline Church. Many thanks to Budget Carpet and Gainesville Paint for sponsoring the August Business After Hours and Membership Campaign Kickoff. Don't miss the Business After Hours sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center on Thursday, September 20.

POWER TO INNOVATE

At Jackson EMC, we pride ourselves not only on what we provide our members, but how we

provide it. Power is our business, but satisfied customers are our objective. Every day, our more

than 400 employees work to achieve the perfect balance between advanced technology and

personal service in order to help our customers and to improve the communities we serve.

Give us a call. We’d like to show you how we can help your team succeed.

706-367-5281 / jacksonemc.com

CO M M E RC I A L / I N D U ST R I A L D I V I S I O N

4

JEMC_C&I_innovate_BizLink_Layout 1 6/20/12 5:05 PM Page 1

Beginning production in 1977, Baldor is now the only facility in North America to manufacture high performance lami-nated steel frame DC and AC motors and supplies a wide range of specialty motor products including Navy, Nuclear, Submers-ible, Round Frame DC and Mining motors. Baldor is ISO9001 quality certified and focuses on safety. The Gainesville plant is the recipient of numerous awards for outstanding safety performance in Georgia and locally. In 2012, Baldor received the Greater Hall Chamber’s Industry Safety Recognition Award. With over 400 employees, Baldor Gainesville has dem-onstrated the capability to be a world class manufacturing facility competing suc-cessfully in a global market. Baldor Electric, 4349 Avery Drive, Flowery Branch, GA 30542, 678-947-7350. baldor.com

Zebra Technologies Corporation, a bar coding label manufacturer, located to Oakwood in 2007 to a 20,000 square-foot facility with 10 employees. In 2008, the company expanded to 30,000-square-feet, and in August, Zebra celebrated an expan-sion to 40,000-square-feet. Now with 36 employees, Zebra manufactures bar coding labels for retail, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive and other industries. The Oakwood Zebra location is the company’s second largest (supplies) plant in North America and services three major distributors in the Southeast. The plant has more than doubled their revenue since manufacturing began at the site, and they continue to see growth in the future. Zebra was the winner of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012 Environmental Stewardship Recognition Award.

“The success of this location is due to the proximity of major customers, the ship-ping corridor, availability of quality local employees and resources, and the strong support for manufacturing by local officials,” said Zebra Technologies Plant Man-ager Pao Sengkhammee. “We are proud to be part of this business community and will continue to invest in people, facilities and equipment to ensure we continue to service our customers with Quality Product, Exceptional Service and Value.” Zebra Technologies Corp., Oakwood South Industrial Park, 5322 Rafe Banks Drive, Suite E, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542. zebra.com

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Zebra Technologies Expansion

(L-R): Mayor Lamar Scroggs, City of Oakwood; Billy Powell, Hall County Commission; Mike Underwood, Vice President of Aftermarket Operations, Zebra Technologies; Pao Sengkhammee, Plant Manager, Zebra Technologies; Paul Danielson, Director of North American Operations, Zebra Technologies; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO.

Baldor Celebrates 35 Years

You'll not want to miss the FREE health screenings as part of the Greater Hall Chamber's 6th Annual HealthSmart Expo on Wednesday, October 10 at the Georgia Mountains Center in Downtown Gainesville. No entry fee and screen-ings are open to the public from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. HealthSmart, a VISION 2030 Initiative, seeks to raise wellness awareness and promote healthy workplaces in the community. Screenings include: Glucose, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, BMI, Carotid Artery, Asthma and Hearing Screenings, Sleep Disorders, Balance/Fall Risk Assessments, and ABI-Vascular screenings to check for blood clots in legs. Flu shots available at a minimal cost.

Jeff Hill, a meteorologist and part of the Fox 5 News Team in Atlanta, will be guest speaker at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center. Jeff recently suffered complications from a heart disorder. He now has a pacemaker and is sharing his story about the impor-tance of health and fitness and recognizing your body’s symptoms. The HealthSmart Breakfast is $10 Greater Hall Chamber members; $15 non-members.

The Greater Hall Chamber is seeking Gainesville-Hall County's “Most Fit Company” in three categories (large, medium and small companies). Complete the Most Fit Company Survey by linking online on the Chamber's homepage: greaterhallchamber.com or contact Jean McCullough 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. The deadline to submit a survey is Friday, September 28. Award presentations will be take place at the HealthSmart Breakfast on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center.

Expo and screenings are free and open to the public. Exhibitor Booths are $350 each ($500 non-members) and Non-Profit Tables are available for $100 each. Sponsor-ships available. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

HealthSmart Expo Open to Public

October 10, 2012Breakfast & Most Fit Company Awards – 7:30 am - 9:00 am

Free Screenings & Wellness Expo – 7:30 am - 1:30 pm

Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville

Baldor's Gainesville plant, a motor manufacturer, celebrated its 35th anniversary in July.

Beginning production in 1977, Baldor is now the only facility in North America to manufacture high performance lami-nated steel frame DC and AC motors and supplies a wide range of specialty motor products including Navy, Nuclear, Submers-ible, Round Frame DC and Mining motors. Baldor is ISO9001 quality certified and focuses on safety. The Gainesville plant is the recipient of numerous awards for outstanding safety performance in Georgia and locally. In 2012, Baldor received the Greater Hall Chamber’s Industry Safety Recognition Award. With over 400 employees, Baldor Gainesville has dem-onstrated the capability to be a world class manufacturing facility competing suc-cessfully in a global market. Baldor Electric, 4349 Avery Drive, Flowery Branch, GA 30542, 678-947-7350. baldor.com

Zebra Technologies Corporation, a bar coding label manufacturer, located to Oakwood in 2007 to a 20,000 square-foot facility with 10 employees. In 2008, the company expanded to 30,000-square-feet, and in August, Zebra celebrated an expan-sion to 40,000-square-feet. Now with 36 employees, Zebra manufactures bar coding labels for retail, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive and other industries. The Oakwood Zebra location is the company’s second largest (supplies) plant in North America and services three major distributors in the Southeast. The plant has more than doubled their revenue since manufacturing began at the site, and they continue to see growth in the future. Zebra was the winner of the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce 2012 Environmental Stewardship Recognition Award.

“The success of this location is due to the proximity of major customers, the ship-ping corridor, availability of quality local employees and resources, and the strong support for manufacturing by local officials,” said Zebra Technologies Plant Man-ager Pao Sengkhammee. “We are proud to be part of this business community and will continue to invest in people, facilities and equipment to ensure we continue to service our customers with Quality Product, Exceptional Service and Value.” Zebra Technologies Corp., Oakwood South Industrial Park, 5322 Rafe Banks Drive, Suite E, Flowery Branch, Georgia 30542. zebra.com

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Zebra Technologies Expansion

(L-R): Mayor Lamar Scroggs, City of Oakwood; Billy Powell, Hall County Commission; Mike Underwood, Vice President of Aftermarket Operations, Zebra Technologies; Pao Sengkhammee, Plant Manager, Zebra Technologies; Paul Danielson, Director of North American Operations, Zebra Technologies; Kit Dunlap, Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO.

Baldor Celebrates 35 Years

You'll not want to miss the FREE health screenings as part of the Greater Hall Chamber's 6th Annual HealthSmart Expo on Wednesday, October 10 at the Georgia Mountains Center in Downtown Gainesville. No entry fee and screen-ings are open to the public from 7:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. HealthSmart, a VISION 2030 Initiative, seeks to raise wellness awareness and promote healthy workplaces in the community. Screenings include: Glucose, Cholesterol, Blood Pressure, BMI, Carotid Artery, Asthma and Hearing Screenings, Sleep Disorders, Balance/Fall Risk Assessments, and ABI-Vascular screenings to check for blood clots in legs. Flu shots available at a minimal cost.

Jeff Hill, a meteorologist and part of the Fox 5 News Team in Atlanta, will be guest speaker at the HealthSmart Kickoff Breakfast on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center. Jeff recently suffered complications from a heart disorder. He now has a pacemaker and is sharing his story about the impor-tance of health and fitness and recognizing your body’s symptoms. The HealthSmart Breakfast is $10 Greater Hall Chamber members; $15 non-members.

The Greater Hall Chamber is seeking Gainesville-Hall County's “Most Fit Company” in three categories (large, medium and small companies). Complete the Most Fit Company Survey by linking online on the Chamber's homepage: greaterhallchamber.com or contact Jean McCullough 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. The deadline to submit a survey is Friday, September 28. Award presentations will be take place at the HealthSmart Breakfast on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:30 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center.

Expo and screenings are free and open to the public. Exhibitor Booths are $350 each ($500 non-members) and Non-Profit Tables are available for $100 each. Sponsor-ships available. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

HealthSmart Expo Open to Public

October 10, 2012Breakfast & Most Fit Company Awards – 7:30 am - 9:00 am

Free Screenings & Wellness Expo – 7:30 am - 1:30 pm

Georgia Mountains Center in Gainesville

Baldor's Gainesville plant, a motor manufacturer, celebrated its 35th anniversary in July.

Leadership Hall County's Lake Program included a presentation by Tommy Howard, The Norton Agency, on the history of Lake Lanier and current trends in lake property and housing. The Hall County Dive Team led by SSGT Kelley Edwards and Sgt. Steven Wilbanks discussed search and rescue followed by a dive demonstration. Harry Chapman and Bob Waterson talked about the Hall County Sheriff ’s Marine Patrol. At the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Lake Lanier Management Office and Buford Dam Power House, Nick Baggett and Cecil L. Quinley led discussion and a tour. The group enjoyed a house boat ride and lunch sponsored by Grier Todd, Lake Lanier Islands Resort, and then visited the Lakeside Water Treatment Plant Facility where they learned about water treatment for Gainesville-Hall County from Scott Benefield. The day ended with the class competing in Dragon Boat races led by Youth Leadership Hall graduates and members of LCKC, Stanton Collins and Ben Hefner. Thank you sponsors: AT&T, Lake Lanier Islands Resort and McDonald's.

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Healthcare Reform: Get the right information and right answers

One of the most daunting tasks I face today as a healthcare consultant is managing important information necessary to advise my clients. Since the passing of the Affordable Care Act, there have been countless papers, blogs, books, viral videos, articles, news reports, webinars, and other materials produced on the topic of healthcare reform.

The majority of this information that is circulating is just plain wrong! It is my job to wade through this enormous amount of material and determine the “good” information from the “bad” or incorrect information.

To assist Chamber members and the public in obtaining a better understanding of healthcare reform, Turner Wood

and Smith Insurance, Northeast Georgia Health System and the Greater Hall Cham-ber is sponsoring a Healthcare Reform Seminar on Thursday, September 13 from 8:30- 11:00 a.m. at the Georgia Mountains Center. You may be asking yourself, "Do I need to attend?" Before you decide, ask yourself the following questions:

1. Am I required to offer insurance to my employees?2. Are there small business tax increases in the health reform law?3. I have a pre-existing condition. Can I get health insurance coverage?4. Do businesses have to offer health insurance to families who are already covered elsewhere?5. Will health reform law require nearly all Americans to have health insurance starting in 2014 or else pay a fine?6. Does the health reform law create a new government run insurance plan to be offered along with private plans?7. What will the new law do to the rates I am paying?

If you do not know the answer to these questions, plan to attend. These questions will be answered at the September 13 seminar. You will also receive a health insur-ance reform booklet.

The Healthcare Reform Seminar is Thursday, September 13, 8:30 -11:00 a.m., at the Georgia Mountains Center. The seminar will update businesses and the community on how we are all affected by Healthcare Reform with discussion from experts in the field. $15 Chamber Mem-bers; $20 Non-Members. Registration required. Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. Email: jean@ghcc.com. Make reservations online: greaterhallchamber.com

Rob FowlerTurner, Wood & Smith Insurance

Leadership Hall County

Chamber Chairman Randall Frost, Stewart, Melvin & Frost, greeted the 2012-2013 Youth Leadership Hall (YLH) Class at the Gainesville Civic Center for the kickoff that included remarks from educators Dr. Merrianne Dyer, Superintendent, Gainesville City Schools; Connie Daniels, Principal, Mount Vernon Elementary School; YLH Liaison Chris Wade Curry, Gainesville City Schools, and YLH Liaison Rhonda Samples, Hall County Schools. The class of high school juniors and seniors is divided into two groups, Team A & B, with each team participating in six day-long programs. The monthly programs cover such topics as the judicial system, economic development, tourism and Lake Lanier, along with financial and banking overviews and etiquette and resume/interview tips.

Youth Leadership Hall Kickoff

1/4 Page Ad2 columns 4.4167 x5

Leadership Hall with Hall County Diver West Mills (L-R): Lauren Samples, Tillman, Bailey & Associates; Jake Green, Regions Bank; Amber Sowers, Hall County Solicitor's Office; Vanessa Sykes, Hulsey, Oliver & Mahar; Tiffany Gillespie, Turner, Wood & Smith; Laura Fowler, Red Clay Interactive; Carla Walker, Whelchel, Dunlap, Jarrard & Walker; Pam Patterson, The Longstreet Clinic; Shanna Cronic, NEGA Diagnostic Center; Angela Payne, NEGA Health System.

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Tuesday, September 11Small Business Success SeminarFinancial Resources for Small Businesses 7:45-9:00 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity

Tuesday, September 11Youth Leadership Hall /Teams A&B8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Riverside Military Academy

Tuesday, September 11Ambassador Council3:45-4:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café

Tuesday, September 11VISION 2030 Board Retreat3:00-6:00 p.m. – Quinlan Visual Arts Center

Wednesday, September 12Network Over Coffee8:30-9:30 a.m. – McDonald's, 2105 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville

Wednesday, September 12Human Resources11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant

Thursday, September 13Healthcare Reform Seminar8:30-11:00 a.m. – Georgia Mountains Center Theatre & Lobby

Friday, September 14Economic Development Council7:30 a.m. – Chamber

Friday, September 14Business Before Hours7:30-9:00 a.m. – Summer's Landing at Limestone in Gainesville

Wednesday, September 19Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, September 19NEW! Lunch 'n LearnPresented by Matt Dubnik, Full Media11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Recess Southern Gastro Pub in Downtown Gainesville

Thursday, September 20Leadership Hall County Fall Retreat8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Montara Farm

Thursday, September 20Chamber Executive Board11:30 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, September 20Business After HoursSponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center5:00-6:00 p.m. – Jacobs Building at Brenau6:00-7:00 p.m. – NEGA History Center

Tuesday, September 25South Hall Business CoalitionRoad Atlanta Update, Petit Le Mans and Skip Barber School of Racing 8:00-9:00 a.m. – Road Atlanta

Tuesday, September 25Youth Leadership Hall /Team ANatural Resources & Etiquette Program8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club

Wednesday, September 26Network Over Coffee8:30-9:30 a.m. – Loretta’s Country Kitchen 4305 Mundy Mill Road in Oakwood

Wednesday, September 26Georgia Chamber WebinarCreating a Culture of Service Excellence11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Chamber

Thursday, September 27Chamber Board of Directors and Georgia Chamber Power Luncheon12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

Friday, September 28Environmental/Health/Safety Committee8:30 a.m. - Chamber

Get details and make reservations for these and other Chamber events online at greaterhallchamber.com

Friday, September 147:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Summer's Landing at Limestone Senior and Memory Care Community2030 Winward Lane in Gainesville (off Limestone Parkway)No Charge • Complimentary Breakfast

Join us for this special morning networking event and delicious breakfast at one of Gainesville’s newest assisted living communities, located just off Limestone Parkway, with assisted living apartments as well as long-term, Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business Before Hours

Thursday, September 205:00 - 7:00 p.m.Sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center$5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members

Join us for a Reception with delicious hor d’oeurves at the Jacobs Building at Brenau from 5pm-6pm followed by a Wine Reception & Tour at the Northeast Georgia History Center from 6pm-7pm. Grand Prize Drawing & Membership Campaign Announcements at the Wine Reception. Don't miss great networking, food and drink, and great doorprizes! Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. mwiley@ghcc.com

Business After Hours

Tuesday, September 25Road Atlanta8:00-8:15 a.m. Networking • 8:15-9:00 a.m. Program$5 Members • $15 Non-membersSponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN AM/FM Radio

Come hear an update on the exciting 15th Annual Petit Le Mans (October 17-20) and the Skip Barber Racing School that recently located its headquarters to Road Atlanta.

Reservations required. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Make reservations for this event and oth-ers online: greaterhallchamber.com

South Hall Business Coalition

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Tuesday, September 11Small Business Success SeminarFinancial Resources for Small Businesses 7:45-9:00 a.m. – Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity

Tuesday, September 11Youth Leadership Hall /Teams A&B8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Riverside Military Academy

Tuesday, September 11Ambassador Council3:45-4:45 p.m. – 2 Dog Café

Tuesday, September 11VISION 2030 Board Retreat3:00-6:00 p.m. – Quinlan Visual Arts Center

Wednesday, September 12Network Over Coffee8:30-9:30 a.m. – McDonald's, 2105 Thompson Bridge Road in Gainesville

Wednesday, September 12Human Resources11:45 a.m. – Luna's Restaurant

Thursday, September 13Healthcare Reform Seminar8:30-11:00 a.m. – Georgia Mountains Center Theatre & Lobby

Friday, September 14Economic Development Council7:30 a.m. – Chamber

Friday, September 14Business Before Hours7:30-9:00 a.m. – Summer's Landing at Limestone in Gainesville

Wednesday, September 19Issues Committee8:00 a.m. – Chamber

Wednesday, September 19NEW! Lunch 'n LearnPresented by Matt Dubnik, Full Media11:45 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Recess Southern Gastro Pub in Downtown Gainesville

Thursday, September 20Leadership Hall County Fall Retreat8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. – Montara Farm

Thursday, September 20Chamber Executive Board11:30 a.m. – Chamber

Thursday, September 20Business After HoursSponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center5:00-6:00 p.m. – Jacobs Building at Brenau6:00-7:00 p.m. – NEGA History Center

Tuesday, September 25South Hall Business CoalitionRoad Atlanta Update, Petit Le Mans and Skip Barber School of Racing 8:00-9:00 a.m. – Road Atlanta

Tuesday, September 25Youth Leadership Hall /Team ANatural Resources & Etiquette Program8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. – Chattahoochee Country Club

Wednesday, September 26Network Over Coffee8:30-9:30 a.m. – Loretta’s Country Kitchen 4305 Mundy Mill Road in Oakwood

Wednesday, September 26Georgia Chamber WebinarCreating a Culture of Service Excellence11:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. – Chamber

Thursday, September 27Chamber Board of Directors and Georgia Chamber Power Luncheon12:00 p.m. – Gainesville Civic Center

Friday, September 28Environmental/Health/Safety Committee8:30 a.m. - Chamber

Get details and make reservations for these and other Chamber events online at greaterhallchamber.com

Friday, September 147:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Summer's Landing at Limestone Senior and Memory Care Community2030 Winward Lane in Gainesville (off Limestone Parkway)No Charge • Complimentary Breakfast

Join us for this special morning networking event and delicious breakfast at one of Gainesville’s newest assisted living communities, located just off Limestone Parkway, with assisted living apartments as well as long-term, Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Details: Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

Business Before Hours

Thursday, September 205:00 - 7:00 p.m.Sponsored by Brenau University and the Northeast Georgia History Center$5 Chamber Members; $15 Non-Members

Join us for a Reception with delicious hor d’oeurves at the Jacobs Building at Brenau from 5pm-6pm followed by a Wine Reception & Tour at the Northeast Georgia History Center from 6pm-7pm. Grand Prize Drawing & Membership Campaign Announcements at the Wine Reception. Don't miss great networking, food and drink, and great doorprizes! Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. mwiley@ghcc.com

Business After Hours

Tuesday, September 25Road Atlanta8:00-8:15 a.m. Networking • 8:15-9:00 a.m. Program$5 Members • $15 Non-membersSponsored by Milton Martin Honda, Red Clay Interactive and WDUN AM/FM Radio

Come hear an update on the exciting 15th Annual Petit Le Mans (October 17-20) and the Skip Barber Racing School that recently located its headquarters to Road Atlanta.

Reservations required. Michelle Wiley, 770-532-6206. Email: mwiley@ghcc.com. Make reservations for this event and oth-ers online: greaterhallchamber.com

South Hall Business Coalition

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Reason #2: Our PhysiciansWe opened our state-of-the-art Ronnie Green Heart Center 10 years ago. As we look back at a decade of

healing hearts at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC), there are many reasons to celebrate. Reasons,

like the more than 80 cardiologists, surgeons, anesthesiologists and other physician specialists affiliated

with our Heart & Vascular Services who save lives every day.

Many of our physicians have trained at the nation’s most prestigious cardiac programs including Harvard University, Columbia

University and the Mayo Clinic. Their work is reflected in NGMC being named Georgia’s #1 heart hospital and top 5% in the nation

for cardiac care for seven years in a row (2006 – 2012, HealthGrades®).

Gainesville | 770-219-3840

See the list of reasons we’re celebrating, share your own reason and learn more about heart services at NGMC by visiting

nghs.com/10reasons

ONNIE GREENHEART CENTERRTHE

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• The Hall County Sheriff's Office was recognized by the International Associa-tion of Chiefs of Police, placing 2nd in the nation among offices of comparable size–the third time the organization has been recognized. Hall County announced Srikanth Yamala new Planning Director and Bill Moats joins Hall County as Hu-man Resources Director. hallcounty.org• The Quinlan Visual Arts Center's Mary Ann Klimek Pottery Classes are Thurs-days, Sept 6 - Oct 25, 7-9 p.m. Learn how to use a pottery wheel or basics of hand building. Ages 16+. quinlanartscenter.org• The Chamber's 2012-2013 Wage & Benefit Report assists companies in staying competitive in compensation and benefit practices. The report includes 52 employers (63% manufacturers; 37% non-manufacturing) with 71 job summaries and benefit and pay practice sections. $30 Chamber members; $50 non-members. Shelley Davis, VP Existing Industry, 770-532-6206 x 108. Email: sdavis@ghcc.com• Leadership Sponsor Opportunities: Consider sponsoring transportation for the Leadership Hall class, $900, or a meal for Youth Leadership Hall, $300. Includes recognition in the Chamber’s newsletter; signage on bus/restaurant; logo on Leader-ship materials; opportunity to participate in program. Details: Dana Miller, 770-532-6206. Email: dmiller@ghcc.com

• WomenSource's Power of the Purse & Vendor Marketplace is Tuesday, Septem-ber 11 and will be a great opportunity for small businesses to get the word out about their products. For booth information, call Laura Haynes, 770-503-9060. Email: laura@womensource.info• The Fockele Garden Company acquired KMA Gardens, an Atlanta-based land-scape design, build, and maintain com-pany. Founded in 1995, KMA Gardens specializes in residential landscapes with a focus on environmental sustainability. fockelegardencompany.com• The Chamber's NEW Lunch ‘n Learn meetings are the third Wednesday of the month, 11:45 am - 1:00 pm, at Recess Southern Gastro Pub in Downtown Gainesville. Includes a short program and time for professional networking. Next meeting is September 19, program by Matt Dubnik, Full Media. Entry fee is $5. Reservations: Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. ktate@ghcc.com. greaterhallchamber.com• Terry Evans, president and CEO of In-dependence Bank in Braselton, and Mary Neuman, Mulberry Walk Center of Brasel-ton, were elected to the board of the Bra-selton LifePath Community Improvement District, a program to design and construct pathways connecting neighborhoods to lo-cal commercial districts in Braselton.braseltonlifepath.com

• North Hall Park, a 123-acre park located at 4175 Nopone Road includes four base-ball fields, track, walking trails, field, and a children's play area. A grand opening is planned for November. The Community and Technology Center will include basket-ball courts, a fitness center, indoor track, community/event rooms, showers/lockers, computer lab, coffee shop hallcounty.org• Brent Hoffman of Prudential Georgia Realty announces the lease of the former Rick Pruett's Automotive facility on Mun-dy Mill Road to Kauffman Tire. Kauffman Tire is well known for automotive and tire service for the last 75 years, and this is Kauffman's first Hall County location. • Bradley Nurkin is the new President of Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Nurkin most recently served as President/CEO of Johnson City Medical Center in Tennessee and oversaw operations of a 501-bed Level I Trauma Center and teach-ing hospital. nghs.com

• Trey Wood of Turner Wood & Smith Insurance was selected to serve on the Young Agents of Georgia Board of Direc-tors of the Independent Insurance Agents of Georgia. Trey joined Turner Wood & Smith in 2008 and is the third generation member of the Wood family to serve the company. twsinsurance.com• Northeast Georgia Heart Center an-nounced that the first patient in Georgia was implanted with the Fortify® ST cardioverter defibrillator device by Joon Ahn, MD at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC). "The cutting edge trial is an extraordinary opportunity to make a vitally important contribution to medical science that may ultimately lead to saving patients’ lives," said Ahn. NGMC is rated Georgia’s #1 heart hospital for the seventh consecutive year. ngheartcenter.com

GOT NEWS?Email: kwest@ghcc.com

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Thank You Chamber SponsorsAT&T • Brenau University • Budget Carpet • Charter Business • Crystal Springs

Gainesville Civic Center • Gainesville Paint • Highland Mountain Beverage Jacobs Media • Lake Lanier Islands Resort • McDonald's • Milton Martin Honda

NEGA Health System • NEGA History Center • Red Clay Interactive Rushton & Company • Summer's Landing • Turner Wood & Smith Insurance

Turnstile Deli • WDUN AM-FM Radio

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Nicholas and Alison St. Clair cut ribbon at Antebel-lum Restaurant and invite you to indulge in contempo-rary Southern cuisine. Come experience Antebellum, where gracious service, a comforting atmosphere and fantastic food meet. The restaurant is located in the Historic District of Flowery Branch. Antebellum is the perfect place to go for a night on the town or to bring your family in for a delicious Sunday Brunch. Antebel-lum Restaurant, 5510 Church Street, Flowery Branch GA 30542. 770-965-8100. antebellumrestaurant.com

Antebellum Restaurant

Resia McFarland cuts ribbon for BabyCakes Mini Cupcake Bakery. Open for lunch Monday-Friday from 11-3, Chef Taylor makes a daily variety of fresh baked breads for sandwiches and made-from-scratch chicken salads and soups. The BabyCakes mini cupcakes are always baked fresh and all natural with no dyes or preservatives and gluten free on Thursdays! They are also a full service florist with award winning floral designers with 33 years experience. On site beautiful rental room and gardens, perfect for meetings, showers, weddings and receptions. 3575 McEver Road, Gainesville GA 30501. 770-536-7306. babycakesminicupcakebakery.net

BabyCakes Bakery

Bob Muggleworth (Sony), Jason Ball (Motorola), Anis Ali, Zeeshan Nagjee, Josh Lewallen, Shabaz Gillani, Samir Virani and Amelita Sims cut ribbon for SI Communications, a neighborhood AT&T Authorized Retailer, locally owned and operated. The company's mission is to ensure that they provide the BEST customer service while ensuring the best products in the industry. They provide AT&T cellular service, U-Verse, Home Solutions, Home Phone, DSL, and Direct TV. AT&T offers discounts based on place of employment. Visit for details: SI Communications, 4009 Winder Highway, Suite 265, Flowery Branch, GA 30542. 678-989-0280. sicommunications.com

SI Communications

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Service activation with 24-month commitment requires no Activation fee. Service activation with no commitment requires $249 Activation fee. Restrictions apply, including business verification, qualifying programming and monthly fees for additional receivers. Offer ends 1/31/13 and is available in the continental United States for new, first-time DISH commercial customers. All prices, packages and programming subject to change without notice. All DISH programming, and any other services that are provided, are subject to the terms and conditions of the promotional agreement and Commercial Customer Agreement. ©2012 DISH Network L.L.C. All rights reserved.

TIME FLIESWHEN THEY’REENTERTAINED!

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ON UP TO 6 TVS, INCLUDING UP TO 3 HD TVS

PREFERRED CELLULAR & SATELLITE204 W ACADEMY ST • GAINESVILLE, GA 30501 (678)450-0997

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Pamela Williams, Chelsea Luttrell (with scissors), and Claudia Madera cut ribbon for @WORK Personnel Services. For over a decade, @WORK Personnel Services has built upon its core foundation of meet-ing and exceeding the needs and expectations of people seeking employment opportunities as well as clients seeking a full service partner to assist with their company's staffing needs. By providing tempo-rary, temp-to-hire, payrolling and full time placement services, @WORK Personnel Services is committed to offering flexible employment solutions and the highest level of service available today. 935 Interstate Ridge Drive, Suite B, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-531-3200. atworkpersonnel.com

@WORK Personnel

Flowery Branch Chiropractic is a full service practice offering quality chiropractic, physiological therapeutics, nutrition and supplement consultation, and massage therapy. Drs. Chris and Tanya Turner have over 30 years of experience in successfully addressing spinal and other musculoskeletal issues, striving to help patients achieve complete wellness through chiropractic care and education on the components of health. They offer speakers and classes for businesses, such as in-services and lunch and learn sessions on a wide variety of health topics. Flowery Branch Chiropractic, 4875 Hog Mountain Road, Suite D, Flowery Branch GA 30542. 770-967-1900. flowerybranchchiro.com

Flowery Branch Chiropractic

Laura and Scott Taylor cut ribbon at S&L Pawn Shop in Clermont. S&L Pawn Shop offers merchandise, watch and clock repair with an independent jeweler on staff on Mondays. The shop has a large selection of new and used items, watches, hand-crafted, one-of-a-kind jewelry, clocks and watch batteries for $3! Open seven days a week. S&L Pawn, 5308 Cleveland High-way, Clermont, GA 30527. 770-983-2200.

S&L Pawn

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Interested in a Ribbon Cutting for your company? Call Kara Tate, 770-532-6206. Email: ktate@ghcc.com

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All Catered Events David Owen 3820 Mundy Mill RoadOakwood, GA 30566 (706) 781-8597 -Catering allcateredevents.com

Anderson Advisors Gary Anderson 405 Broad Street, SEGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 531-0333 -Financial Advisorgary-anderson.com

Breakfield & AssociatesDavid Purvis539 Green Street Gainesville, GA 30501 (770) 783-5296 -Attorney at Law gainesvillegalawyers.com

Bucket O' Shrimp Caylor Young 272 Dawsonville HighwayGainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4350 -Restaurant & Catering

Carroll Burnette682 Tommy Aaron DriveGainesville, GA 30506 (770) 297-8962 -Individual Member

Country Inn & SuitesBrittany Thomas924 Hwy 124Braselton, GA 30517(770) 868-5419-Hotel countryinns.com/braseltonga

Raymond James/Morgan Keegan - Elisabeth Baldwin303 Jesse Jewell ParkwaySuite 300Gainesville, GA 30501(770) 287-2212-Financial Advisormorgankeegan.com

Gainesville Windustrial Co.Tim Davis 2126 Hilton Drive, SWGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 287-3502 -Retail / Industrial

Hobbs Sporting Goods of Gainesville Nate Miller 1062 Thompson Bridge RdGainesville, GA 30501 (678) 971-4622 -Retail / Sporting Goods J Kevin Tharpe, Attorney 405 Broad Street, SEGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 503-1022 -Attorney at Law tharpelaw.net

Norton InsuranceAndrea Brock 434 Green StreetGainesville, GA 30501 (770) 718-5253 -Insurance Agent nortoninsurance.com

Racetrac Petroleum, Inc. (3 Stores)#232 – 1450 McEver Road Gainesville, GA 30504(770) 534-1920

Racetrac Petroleum, Inc. # 597 – 2410 Cornelia HwyGainesville, GA 30501(770) 287-3659

Racetrac Petroleum, Inc. #621 – 3980 Mundy Mill RdOakwood, GA 30566(770) 297-7378-Convenience Storesracetrac.com

Superior Document SolutionsRory Edlin 1925 Breckinridge PlazaSuite 160Duluth, GA 30096 (770) 446-5325 -Business Services superiordocumentsolutions.com

The Simpson Company Brian Hughs 425 Spring StreetSuite 200Gainesville, GA 30501 (678) 316-4445 -Commercial Real Estate simpsoncompany.com

United Methodist Children's HomeSondra Rogers604 Washington StreetSuite 146Gainesville, GA 30501(770) 531-3063-Non-Profitumchildrenshome.org

Welcome New Members

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New Webinar SeriesThe Greater Hall Chamber is hosting Georgia Chamber's monthly webinar series on topics that are pertinent to small businesses. The one-hour virtual lunch webinars provide the opportunity to take advantage of the Georgia Chamber’s educational resources. The upcoming Webinar: Creating a Culture of Service Excellence is Wednesday, September 26, 11:30 am - 1:00 pm at the Greater Hall Chamber. This webinar is based on Theo Gilbert-Jamison’s popular leadership book, The Six Principles of Service Excellence. She will reveal common gaps that prevent leaders from maximizing employee performance to positively impact organizational culture, customer loyalty, and bottom-line results with innovative tips, best practices, and lessons learned through Theo’s affiliation with The Ritz-Carlton and other leading brands renowned for sustaining customer satisfaction. $15 for Chamber Members; $25 non-members. Includes lunch. Reservations: Jean McCullough, 770-532-6206. jean@ghcc.com. Online: greaterhallchamber.com

The Norton AgencyKey Economic Indicators

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Light Sources Photographic Illustration is celebrating its 31st year as Northeast Georgia’s leading commercial, advertising and aerial photographers. Owned and operated by Larry Griffeth and Robb Maag, the firm’s work has played a significant role in the marketing and growth of companies throughout the region. Specializing in product, architectural, advertising, public relations, food, corporate and aerial photography, Light Sources’ studio has been a part of the downtown Gainesville business community since 1981. Their client list includes advertising agencies, electric membership corporations, financial institutions, real estate firms, as well as poultry, agricultural and food industries. A portfolio of their work can be viewed on the web at www.lsiphoto.com or on Facebook. Light Sources, Inc. is located in the Turner Wood & Smith Insurance building at 100 Brenau Avenue, Gainesville, GA 30501. 770-534-3361. lsiphoto.com

Small Business of the MonthLight Sources, Inc. Photography

Small Business of the Month Award Recipients Larry Griffeth and Robb Maag of Light Sources, Inc.

Chamber Staff SpotlightOriginally from Dalton Georgia, Dana Miller is a graduate of Brenau University where she earned her undergraduate degree in Mass Communications. Prior to joining the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce as Vice President of Education in 2008, Dana served as Marketing Director for Interactive Neighborhood for Kids (INK) for three years. Dana’s duties for the Education Division include managing Leadership Hall County, Youth Leadership Hall, the Youth Apprentice Program and Partners in Education. In addition, she works closely with Center Point Mentoring program and Junior Achievement. She serves on the Board of Directors for Boys and Girls Club of Hall County and the Humane Society of Northeast Georgia

and volunteers for several other community programs. Dana is a Certified Memphis BBQ network and Kansas City BBQ judge volunteering for BBQ events at Brenau University and across the state.

Dana Fowler MillerVP, EducationGreater Hall Chamber

The 9th Annual Art In The Square Festival is Sep-tember 15 & 16 at Gainesville’s Downtown Square with over 120 professional artists and live demonstra-tions including plein air painting, raku pottery firings, and drum making. Artists will exhibit original paint-ings, pottery, folk art, birdhouses, jewelry, stain glass, arts and crafts for kids, and more. Entertainment with guitar music by Wayde Powell, belly dancing special performances on the John Jarrard Songwrit-er’s Stage, and INK's Youth Artist Market. There will also be great food from local restaurants. The 11th Annual John Jarrard & Friends Concert will be held in conjunction with the festival with a FREE concert Friday, September 14 on the Square with Riverstreet and singer/songwriter Jeffery Steele. "VISION 2030 recognizes this as a great collaboration of efforts," said VISION 2030 Executive Director Meg Nivens. Art Festival: Anne Brodie Hill, 770-886-6126. art-inthesquarega.com. Concert: Jody Jackson, 770-710-9191. johnjarrardfoundation.com

Art & Music Festival Downtown

Permits Issued - Hall County

Housing Area Permits July July June Total 2012County 2012 2011 2012 2011 YTDBarrow 6 4 5 25 22 Dawson 1 2 4 34 10

Gwinnett 89 45 99 555 364 Forsyth 146 111 137 1,099 713

Jackson 6 2 3 22 12

Homes Sold and Closed and Average Price of Home July Avg July Avg June Avg Total Avg Total AvgArea 2012 Price 2011 Price 2012 Price 2011 Price 2012 Price

City 24 178,883 17 120,544 16 155,333 180 132,902 94 166,706

North 40 214,558 35 206,274 34 151,371 384 203,902 193 194,266

East 22 64,070 23 60,983 17 70,302 238 79,629 113 61,158

South 16 136,943 23 114,575 27 202,832 296 131,000 123 144,966

West 43 200,238 57 196,025 45 176,246 558 182,192 278 199,847

Previous Month

June 2012

21

Latest

July 27One Year Ago

July 2011

21

2011 Total

1802012 YTD

136

Updated 8/28

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 thoward@nortonnorthga.com

Key EconomicIndicators

Greater Hall County

Latest

July 2012

7.5Previous Month

June 2012

6.9One Year Ago

July 2011

8.6

10

8

6

4

2

2 0 1 1

EmploymentHall County

Updated 8/28

Area Jobless Rates

Gainesville City 8.4

Cherokee 7.5Dawson 8.3

Forsyth 7.1

Gwinnett 8.3

Jackson 9.1

Ga Mountains 8.2State of Georgia 9.6

U.S. 8.2 J A S O N D J F M A M J J

Perc

ent

LatestJuly 2012

$236,298,464Previous Month

June 2012$243,463,210

One Year Ago

July 2011$228,963,688

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 8/28

3.0

100’

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S O N D J F M A M J J

1.0

2.0

2 0 1 1

12-Month HighJuly 20118.9%

2 0 1 2

2 0 1 2

congratulationsto Hall County’s Own

BEst DEalErsHiPs T O W O R K F O R 2 0 1 2

Automotive News

ONLY Recipient in State of GeorgiaTop 100 of 20,600 Dealers in U.S. and CanadaA Trustworthy Dealer • With Loyal Employees • Delivering Dedicated Customer Service

2350 Browns Bridge Road • Gainesville, GA 30504 • 770-532-4355

Miltonmartintoyota.com

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

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Upcoming Chamber Events

Get Details & Register Online:greaterhallchamber.com

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GAINESVILLE, GA

CAR-RT SORT

This publication is printed on partially recycled paper.

Tuesday, September 11Small Business Success Seminar Financing for Small Businesses 7:45 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.Lanier Tech MDC at Featherbone Communiversity

Thursday, September 13Healthcare Reform Seminar8:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. Georgia Mountains Center

Friday, September 14Business Before Hours7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. Summer's Landing in Gainesville

Thursday, September 20Business After HoursBrenau University & Northeast Georgia History Center5:00-6:00 p.m. – Jacobs Building6:00-7:00 p.m. – History Center

Tuesday, September 25South Hall Business CoalitionRoad Atlanta, Petit Le Mans and Skip Barber School of Racing 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m. – Road Atlanta

Wednesday, September 26Georgia Chamber WebinarCreating a Culture of Customer Service Excellence 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. – Chamber

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Upcoming Chamber Events