October 2009 ChamberLink - Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce

ChamberLink
We create the ‘link’ necessary to forge a model community.
Published for the Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce by The Daily Citizen.
State of the
Industry
JUNE 2011
2. Chairman's Message
3-5. Feature Story
5-8. Leadership Dalton-Whitfield
9. Diplomat Open
10. Economic Development
11. Chamber Connections/
Good Morning Dalton
12. Diplomat of the Month
13. Ribbon Cuttings
14. Morning Mixer
15. Anniversaries
16. Member Mixer
17. Go Green
18. Spotlight on Business
19. New Members & Updates
CALENDAR
Member Mixer
Thursday, June 16th
5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
State Farm Insurance-Brandon Combs
236 N. Hamilton St., Unit 1
Free to attend
Morning Mixer
Thursday, June 23rd
8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.
The Emery Center
110 W. Emery St.
Free to attend
Business Expo & Cookout on the Hill
Tuesday, July 19th
10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Cookout will be from 11:00 a.m
to 1:00 p.m.
NorthWest Georgia Trade &
Convention Center
2211 Dug Gap Battle Road
Free to attend
$200 to Exhibit
2nd Annual Chamber Golf Classic
Tournament
Monday, August 8th
1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
The Farm Golf Club
187 S. Goose Hill Road
$200 for Individual Players
Sponsorships available
For more information about the Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce please visit our website at
www.daltonchamber.org
Thank you to our 2011 Chamber Program Year Sponsors who help make all of these events possible.
Chairman’s Message
Thank you for taking time
to read through the June
edition of ChamberLink.
Summer brings with it
many new opportunities to
look forward to!
We are eager to begin this
new season of events.
One is the 2nd Annual
Chamber Golf Classic on
August 8th at The Farm
Golf Club. Several of our
Diplomats have already been perfecting their swings at
Dalton Falls Miniature Golf and Laser Tag, so be sure and
be there for this opportunity to enjoy some fierce competition and valuable networking.
Another exciting upcoming event is Business Expo 2011.
Taking place on July 19th, this event will feature more
than 90 exhibitors. Don’t miss this chance to visit the variety of businesses gathered for this incredible networking
and marketing opportunity.
With all of the fantastic opportunities offered by the
Chamber in the upcoming months, I want to encourage
you to participate in as many ways as possible. What we
can accomplish together is greater than any one person
or group can accomplish individually: a thriving business
environment in the community that we call home!
To purchase tickets and stay informed about all of our current and forthcoming goings-on, please visit the
Chamber’s website at www.daltonchamber.org.
Lynn Laughter, Chairman
Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce
890 College Drive, Dalton, GA 30720
(706) 278-7373
www.daltonchamber.org
Mission
To serve as the unified voice of business, to
promote the economic prosperity of the
region and to build partnerships and
leadership that improve the quality of life
while delivering superior member services.
Vision
The Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce
will provide the leadership necessary to
leverage community resources and build
partnerships that are focused on positive
community growth.
Organizational Priority
Strengthen our ability to marshal the
resources necessary to achieve positive
community growth by focusing on three core
areas: economic development, leadership
development and community development.
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Chamber Link
Executive Board of Directors
Lynn Laughter, Chairman...................Laughter & Jones Financial Management
Joe Yarbrough, Chairman-Elect...........Mohawk Industries
Bryan McAllister, Treasurer-Chairman Elect Designate....Brown Industries
Brian Anderson, President & CEO.......Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce
Don Adcock.....................................Adcock Financial Group
Carl Bouckaert.................................Beaulieu Group
Penny Carpenter...............................Morehouse Group
John Davis.......................................Peacock Alley
Kelly Fletcher....................................North Georgia Business Machines
David Gregg, Past Chairman.............Alliance National Bank
David Jolly.......................................J&J Industries
Jim Kortum.......................................Windstream Communications
David Morgan.................................Shaw Industries, Inc.
Jeff Myers........................................Hamilton Healthcare System, Inc.
Rhett Orr..........................................Allstate Insurance
Pablo Perez, M.D.............................Saint Joseph Clinic, P.C.
Dan Rogers.....................................OMNOVA Solutions
Robert H. Smalley III..................................McCamy, Phillips, Tuggle & Fordham, L.L.P.
Andy Walker.........................................Alliance National Bank
Staff
Brian Anderson......................President & CEO
Michelle Bartenfeld.................Membership Account Executive
Elyse Cochran………..............Senior Vice President of Economic Development
Sonya Maney.....………..........Executive Assistant
Beth Morrison……..................Vice President, Member Services
Maria Saldana.......................Administrative Assistant
Judy Sawyer….............……....Vice President, Finance & Administration
Alex Stall...............................Economic Development Senior Project Manager
Phyllis Stephens……................Senior Vice President
Barbara Ward…….................Director of Workforce Development
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Feature Story
State of the Industry
Vance Bell, Shaw Industries, Inc. – CEO
1. Considering the effects of the downturn, what is the outlook for industry in Dalton?
Obviously, the carpet industry, as with most other businesses in America, has been through wrenching change
and downsizing the last few years. The good news is that we are coming off of the bottom; and as the U.S.
economy recovers, the carpet industry and Northwest Georgia have a lot of “upside” over the next several
years. The industry’s existing local facilities should increase their level of activity, plus there will be potential
new local investments for portions of the industry’s supply chain.
Vance Bell,
Shaw Industries, Inc.
2. What has your company been doing during this time to prepare for the future?
Our constant focus is to prepare for the future. We have undergone some dramatic changes in our product
mix and asset base the last few years. Due to some flawed decisions and acquisitions in the early to mid part
of the decade, the company went into the downturn with the wrong mix of assets which forced us to remake a
lot of our business. Over the last five years, we have invested capital of almost $1.0 billion for new and modified yarn assets, new systems and technology, sustainable energy and materials, and many other improvements. We have also added new and diversified businesses. While several of these businesses and facilities
are not located in Northwest Georgia, they make what is located in this area that much stronger. Our commitment is to prepare and position this company and its people for many, many years of long-term success.
3. As we hope for an improved business forecast, what are your biggest concerns?
The largest concern for a broad section of the carpet and flooring industry is the residential housing market. It will take another two to three years before
housing in general can be labeled anything close to “healthy”. Another concern is the long-term costs of raw materials. Carpet is petrochemical based,
and until this country has a rational energy plan that includes drilling and refining investment along with renewable alternatives, we are vulnerable to
global oil price volatility.
4. As industry continues to retool/reinvent for the future what concerns involve our workforce?
It has been said so many times we need a higher skill based workforce. The carpet industry’s equipment and technology today is based on sophisticated
computer systems, statistical process controls, automation, and operator led maintenance. Our high school graduates need better technical and computer
skills. The new Georgia Northwestern Technical College partnered with the Career Academy and other high schools will be a huge step in the right
direction to prepare our students for the opportunity in this, and many other industries.
Ralph Boe, Beaulieu Group – President and CEO
1. Considering the effects of the downturn, what is the outlook for industry in Dalton?
This has been the longest recession that most people living today have ever experienced. Since 2006, our
Industry has seen a 40% reduction in the amount of carpet produced and shipped. When we look at our
Industry, fortunately, we are seeing some recovery in the area of commercial business with hotels/motels and
restaurants, and we are also seeing significant growth in the carpet tile business. There has also been an
improvement in general office renovation and construction. However, on the residential side, there has been a
70% reduction in new home sales with a 33% reduction on existing home sales, both of which are not likely
to improve in the near term. It could well be 2014 before there is a significant recovery in single-family home
construction. Therefore, I don’t see a rapid recovery in the residential carpet industry in Dalton. However, the
Industry has always been a resilient one in looking for creative and innovative ways to market and manufacture our product, which has kept us in the forefront of the world carpet industry.
Ralph Boe,
Beaulieu Group
2. What has your company been doing during this time to prepare for the future?
In terms of both preparing for the future and in being more creative to offset the demand that exists today, we
are investing in new technology that includes extrusion of polyester BCF, which is the growing fiber segment in
residential carpet. In addition, we are adding consumer benefits through the addition of Magic Fresh, which is an additive to our carpets that reduces
odorous gases in homes or offices to provide a more comfortable living environment. We also have Healthy Home products that utilize Silver Release
antimicrobial protection to reduce the potential for mold or mildew growth that may occur in moist environments. Both of these benefits we feel provide
an opportunity to expand our carpet offering to a wider consumer audience.
3. As we hope for an improved business forecast, what are your biggest concerns?
I have three big concerns regarding an improved business forecast: 1) Without some abatement in the foreclosure rate, the time of recovery in the carpet
industry will be extended. 2) I am concerned about inflation triggering the need for higher interest rates, which could further slow recovery. 3) The continuing cost increases of petroleum-based raw materials could cause our product to be de-selected from a value standpoint in comparison to alternate
flooring products.
4. As industry continues to retool/reinvent for the future what concerns involve our workforce?
The equipment we purchase today tends to be more sophisticated than what we purchased 20-30 years ago, which requires our workforce to be more literate and systems-oriented in the utilization of the benefits of the equipment. Secondly, as business does recover, will we have the workforce available to
support the recovery of our Industry, since many of our people have departed this area during the recession? In all, we are working through the most difficult time of our Industry, but we will come out stronger to meet the ever changing demands of the future.
June 2011
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
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Feature Story
David Jolly, J & J Industries – President and CEO
1. Considering the effects of the downturn, what is the outlook for industry in Dalton?
Slow, fitful improvement. Since our local economy is dominated by flooring companies tied disproportionately to the residential market, there will be little consistent improvement until the residential market
rebounds from its current devastated state. Since no one is predicting any significant turnaround in the
residential market until late 2013 or 2014, it appears that our current community's state is the "new normal" for the near term, at minimum. Since the flooring industry, as a whole, is not anticipated to grow
strongly over the next few years, it highlights our community's need to attract business that is more
diverse than flooring and not tied to the same cyclical factors (residential markets) that often affect the
flooring industry.
2. What has your company been doing during this time to prepare for the future?
We are continuing to invest in people and equipment to keep our company competitive and prepared
David Jolly,
for a dynamic market place. For all companies, speed and flexibility are hallmarks of our new
J & J Industries
economy. We have been cross-training many of our associates, as well as providing additional training
in LEAN Manufacturing and effective Leadership. From an equipment / business standpoint, we have
invested almost $20 million in both new businesses and new capital equipment - all designed to ensure we are poised to serve our customers,
increase our sustainable practices, and capture market opportunities in 2011 and beyond.
3. As we hope for an improved business forecast, what are your biggest concerns?
One of my biggest concerns is the ever-continuing rise of energy and raw materials' costs. These rising costs significantly impact manufacturer's
margins as the cost increases occur quicker than we are able to pass along to our customers - and with demand for flooring products remaining
mostly stagnant, the ability to pass along price increases is minimized. From a national standpoint, I remain very concerned along two fronts: (1)
our country's ballooning debt and the near vote to raise our debt ceiling, and (2) our country's non-existent energy policy. If our country cannot
make the hard decisions to rein-in our spending, reduce our debt, and formulate a long-term, sensible energy policy that minimizes our dependence upon OPEC, the ability to make goods in America becomes less attractive and more costly.
4. As industry continues to retool/reinvent for the future what concerns involve our workforce?
Our local workforce is, in general, undertrained for today's workplace; however, this is as much a national problem as it is a local problem.
Math, science, and computer skills are needed throughout the manufacturing sector, with good communication skills needed in addition for the
service areas. I think our community is taking the first steps to improve future workforce skills with the partnership with Georgia Northwestern
Technical College. There is still much work to be done in this arena, beginning at the middle school level and progressing through both technical
and traditional college avenues - ultimately unifying workforce needs to practical education curriculum and demonstrated skills. In general, our
country must improve its public education system to impact the skills needed in the 21st century.
Phillip Kinslow, Shiroki North America, Inc. –
Georgia Plant Manager
1. Considering the effects of the downturn, what is the outlook for industry in Dalton?
I see a very positive outlook for Dalton, due to a very involved Chamber of Commerce and the DaltonWhitfield County Joint Development Authority. From the Automotive side Dalton’s logistical advantage
for Chattanooga, TN and Mid to North Georgia should attract outside business which will promote area
growth for the community.
2. What has your company been doing during this time to prepare for the future?
We have worked very diligently on gaining new business. Reflecting on 2009 /2010 issues and incorporating these countermeasures in our future strategies.
Phillip Kinslow,
Shikori North America, Inc.
3. As we hope for an improved business forecast, what are your biggest concerns?
How to stay competitive, reduce overhead constants, and develop our growing need for technical education.
4. As industry continues to retool/reinvent for the future what concerns involve our workforce?
As we move toward automation there is a growing need for technical people. Robotics and PLC Technology is our future and should be offered
in our school system. The development of our young adults plays a critical role in job readiness, and future growth in our industry.
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Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Feature Story/Leadership Dalton-Whitfield
Joe Yarbrough, Mohawk Industries –
Senior Vice President
1. Considering the effects of the downturn, what is the outlook for industry in Dalton?
The flooring industry is well established in this community and has a bright future here. Carpet, when
compared to alternatives, is an economical choice and provides consumers with great flexibility in fashion and decorative tastes. The capital intensive infrastructure and inventory investments that our industry
has made in this community ensure a long-term presence and a continuation of a positive partnership
between the industry and the community.
2. What has your company been doing during this time to prepare for the future?
The past several years have certainly been challenging for our industry from at least two perspectives.
One, of course, is the more obvious impact due to the dramatic downturn in housing construction. The
second is the significant shift in consumer preference for products made from continuous filament yarns
Joe Yarbrough,
versus
those made from staple yarns. We have realigned our manufacturing assets to better meet conMohawk Industries
sumer needs and have made those assets even more productive and cost efficient to pass value along to
our retail partners. We continue to invest capital to remain a leading innovator, and we continue to deliver exciting, exclusive new products to
the market like SmartStrand, EverStrand and WearDated Revive. We are excited by the positive reception our products are receiving. We are fiscally and operationally prepared for current business levels as well as for growth as the housing and non-residential markets recover.
3. As we hope for an improved business forecast, what are your biggest concerns?
The pace at which the housing markets recover will provide the greatest challenges. Fortunately, we are a flexible organization that can respond
nimbly to changing conditions.
4. As industry continues to retool/reinvent for the future what concerns involve our workforce?
The carpet industry manufacturing processes have become significantly more "high tech" over the past several years. This has been driven by the
back integration into fiber extrusion and the incorporation of new technologies in yarn processing, tufting, dyeing, finishing and warehouse operations. The skill sets required for workers to operate and perform needed maintenance for these advanced manufacturing assets has changed
dramatically. A ready workforce that is equipped with the necessary skills is essential to our industry's future success. Encouragement for our K
through 12 students to identify their career pathways at an earlier age and to pursue those educational pathways through high school and then
into certificate and degree programs is a must.
Thank you from the Leadership Dalton-Whitfield
Class of 2011!
The Leadership Dalton-Whitfield Class of 2011 expresses sincere appreciation to the following volunteers
for making the year a great success:
Local Government Session: Mike Babb (Whitfield
County), Blake Griffin (City of Tunnel Hill) and Denise
Wood (Mohawk Industries)
Steve Pound, Program Chairman
Howard Elder, Program President
(J & J Industries)
Quality of Life Session: David Aft (The Community
Foundation of Northwest Georgia) and Randy Waskul
(Global Environmental)
State Government Session: Representative Roger
Williams, Representative Tom Dickson and
Senator Charlie Bethel (J & J Industries)
Judicial System Session: Judge Jack Partain
Local Economics Session: Brian Anderson (DaltonWhitfield Chamber of Commerce) and Elyse Cochran
(Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce & DaltonWhitfield County Joint Development Authority)
Medical Services Session: Jeff Myers (Hamilton Health
Care System)
Education Session: Dr. Jim Hawkins (Dalton Public
Schools) and Dr. John Schwenn (Dalton State College)
Advanced Leadership Academy: Danny Crutchfield
(Shaw Industries), Matt Land (Browne, Draper & Land
Financial Concepts) and Louis Fordham (J & J
Industries)
June 2011
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
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Leadership Dalton-Whitfield
Special Thanks to
our 2011 Program
Volunteers
Steve Pound
LDW Chairman
Howard E. Elder
LDW President
(J&J/Invision)
LEADERSHIP DALTON-WHITFIELD
CLASS OF 2011
Norman Baxter
Director-HS Planning and
Inventory
Management
Shaw Industries, Inc.
Noel Black
Dalton Area Manager
Georgia Power Co.
Marc Blanchard
Director of Energy
Mohawk Industries
Chris Blevins
Business Account
Representative
Windstream
Communications
Rebecca E. Bolden
Sr. Environmental
Engineer
Mohawk Industries
Kevin Brunson
Vice Pres./Commercial
Banker
Regions Bank
Lisa Rodriguez Buice
Corporate Diversity
Manager
Shaw Industries
Vickie Fox Burns*
Educational Director
North Georgia Center for
Educational Excellence
Dennis Carney*
Major Account Executive
Windstream
Communications
Jeff Carrier
Sustainability Manager
The Carpet and Rug
Institute
*Perfect Attendance
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Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Leadership Dalton-Whitfield
LEADERSHIP DALTON-WHITFIELD
CLASS OF 2011
Greg Cook
Vice President-Corporate
Development
Shaw Industries
Mark R. Cook
Syntec Industries
Melinda Edgeman
Director of Womens
Services
Hamilton Medical Center
Randall Foster
Director, Financial Services
Hamilton Medical Center
Mark Gibson*
(Formerly City of Varnell)
County Administrator
Whitfield County
Blake E. Gober
Commercial Lender
BB&T Bank
Jami Hall
Director of Student Life
Dalton State College
Mark Hartline
Human Resources
Director
Shaw Industries
Rhonda Hayes
Asst. Superintendent
Dalton Public Schools
Viola M. Ibarra
Customer Service Rep.
Georgia Power Co.
Tangela W. Johnson
President/CEO
North Georgia Center for
Educational Excellence
Amy Kleem*
Director
Family Promise of
Whitfield County
Greg Livingston
Director-I.S. Systems
Development
Shaw Industries
Sabrina Locklear
CPA
Morehouse Group
Melissa D. Lu
Archway Partnership
Professional
University of Georgia
*Perfect Attendance
June 2011
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
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Leadership Dalton-Whitfield
LEADERSHIP DALTON-WHITFIELD
CLASS OF 2011
Tate O’Gwin
Financial Advisor
O’Gwin Investment
Planning, Inc.
Clay Osborn
Director, Residential
Manufacturing
Shaw Industries
George Page
(Formerly Whitfield
County) Executive Director
Valdosta-Lowndes County
Parks & Recreation
Authority
Amanda Reed
Vice President
Health One/Alliant
Health Plans
Tim Rogers
Editor
Dalton Daily Citizen
Angela Sackett
Clerk of Court
City of Dalton Municipal
Court
Jeff Shepherd
Comptroller
Dalton Utilities
Elizabeth Swafford*
Recycling & Education
Program Coordinator
Dalton-Whitfield Solid
Waste Authority
Jim Tucker
Attorney
Minor, Bell & Neal P.C.
Claudia R. Valtierra
Organizational
Development
Sr. Manager
Mohawk Industries
*Perfect Attendance
Dirk Verhoeff*
Environmental Manager
Dalton-Whitfield Solid
Waste Authority
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Chamber Link
Chip Whitfield
Operations Sergeant
Criminal Investigations
Dalton Police Department
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Diplomat Open
Diplomat Open
The 2011 Diplomat Open was an event that brought together several of our Diplomats not only for an afternoon of
fierce competition, but for some old-fashioned social networking as well. Taking place on Thursday, May 12, at Dalton
Falls Mini Golf and Laser Tag, the golfers were able to divide into teams, putt past the waterfalls and sand traps, and
get to know each other along the way. Even though all of the participants were treated with frosty icees to cool off
after the match, we were happy to award the winning certificate to first place winner Lacey Bennett. It is safe to say
that a good time was had by all at this year’s Diplomat Open.
Lacey Bennett (Servpro of N. Whitfield, Catoosa & E. Walker)
proudly displays her first place certificate.
The competitors included (pictured from back left) Connie
Carter (Dynamic Displays & Graphics), Shane Wilson
(Edgepoint Web Design and Online Marketing), Lacey Bennett
(Servpro of N. Whitfield, Catoosa & E. Walker), Christie
Gazaway (Jarrett’s Business Machines), and Andrea Gravitt
(Select Leasing and Management).
Shane Wilson (Edgepoint Web Design and Online Marketing),
Lacey Bennett (Servpro of N. Whitfield, Catoosa & E. Walker),
Andrea Gravitt (Select Leasing and Management), and Christie
Gazaway (Jarrett’s Business Machines) enjoy icees after the
match.
Connie Carter (Dynamic Displays & Graphics) uses her putting
skills as teammate Shane Wilson (Edgepoint Web Design and
Online Marketing) cheers her on.
Thank You Dalton Falls Mini Golf and Laser Tag!
June 2011
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
9
Economic Development/Pineaple Palooza
JDA Unveils New Property
Database on Website
The Mission of the
Dalton - Whitfield County Joint
Development Authority is to facilitate the long-term, positive economic growth of the community
by attracting new, diversified
investments while supporting
existing businesses.
The Development Authority represents a public-private partnership
funded by Whitfield County,
City of Dalton and Grow
Greater Dalton.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Chair: Andy Walker - Alliance
National Bank
Vice Chair: Bill Davies – BB&T
Secretary-Treasurer:
Kevin Harris – Arrowstar, L.L.C.
The Dalton-Whitfield County Joint Development Authority (JDA) is pleased to
announce the launch of a new property database on the JDA website. This new
database is provided in partnership with the Tennessee Valley Authority and
allows users to search by property type, size requirements, for sale or lease, rail
requirements, ceiling height and address. It can be viewed by visiting www.locationdalton.com.
This updated section of the JDA website enables clients to privately browse our
commercial properties for their expansion or new business venture. Listing everything from retail to office to industrial, the website provides in-depth information
on each property along with a map showing where the property is located. Each
property listing can also be printed, emailed or saved as a pdf, Word or Excel
document.
In addition to the listing of all available properties on the JDA website, it is also
duplicated on the sites and buildings websites of Electric Cities of Georgia,
Georgia EMC, Georgia Power and TVA. The JDA works closely with the real
estate community and property owners to keep all property information up-to-date
on the multiple websites.
Working closely with the greater Dalton real estate community is important for a
variety of reasons. The main reason for this partnership is that both economic
developers and local real estate brokers target the same audience and the JDA
relies on the real estate community to keep an accurate inventory of properties.
We also value the impact and insight the agents have on the area and provide
services to assist in their efforts.
If you have a property to add to our website, please contact Sonya Maney at
706-278-7373 or maney@daltonchamber.org to receive our property submission
form.
Dan Combs - State Farm
Insurance-Dan Combs
Bob Kinard - Kinard Realty, Inc.
Frank Robertson – Robertson
Hampton Inn participates
in Pineapple Palooza
and Company
Dawn Sanders – Regions Bank
Dalton Area Convention
and Visitors Bureau’s
Pineapple Palooza
brought out many smiling faces, including the
ladies of the Hampton
Inn. Pictured from left is
volunteer Shonna
Horton, along with
Hampton Inn staff members April Holt and
Mary Johnson.
Elyse Cochran, CCE
Chamber-Senior Vice President of
Economic Development
Alex Stall
Economic Development
Senior Project Manager
Barbara Ward
Director of Workforce
Development
Sonya Maney
Executive Assistant
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Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Chamber Connections/Good Morning Dalton
Chamber Connections at
Next Chamber Connections
Friday, June 10
Outback Steakhouse
955 Market Street 11:30 a.m. -1:00 p.m.
$15.00 members $65 non-members
Andrea Gravitt (Select Leasing & Management), Shane Wilson
(Edgepoint Web Design and Online Marketing) and Christa
Ownbey (Ownbey Enterprises) enjoy Chamber Connections.
Peggy Hallman (Cohutta Springs Conference Center), Connie
Carter (Dynamic Displays & Graphics) and Ashlee Godfrey
(Edward Jones Investments) get to know each other while enjoying a great Outback lunch.
Good Morning Dalton
City of Dalton Mayor, David Pennington addresses the
crowd at the Good Morning Dalton breakfast.
June 2011
Jonathan Bledsoe (Minor, Bell & Neal), Larry Langford
(Langford Appliance), Mike Cook (AuditCom L.L.C.) David
Elrod (Dalton State College Foundation), Jim Jolly (J & J
Industries), Dr. Jim Burran (Dalton State College) and John
Bowling (Hamilton Health Care System) enjoy networking at
the event.
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
11
Diplomat of the Month/Thank you for your service/Welcome Calli Long
Diplomat of the Month
Andrea Gravitt
My name is Andrea Gravitt. I am honored to be named Diplomat of the Month. I
really enjoy going to the Chamber events. I have lived in Whitfield County all my
life. I graduated from Southeast High School. I am the co-owner of Select Leasing
and Management. We are licensed by the Georgia Real Estate Commission. Our
goal is to give our owners the maximum return for their real estate investment. To
achieve this goal, we are dedicated to professional and personal service to each
owner and each property. Because we are dedicated to personal service, Select
Leasing and Management can provide our real estate owners with peace of mind
by working for them and with them to see that the property is managed profitably
and professionally. We constantly strive to provide each owner with the most professional management available and maintain their properties in the best condition possible.
Thank you for your service
Welcome
Calli Long
Calli Long, an undergraduate student at
Berry College, is the newest temporary
addition. She is currently a senior, pursuing a bachelor’s degree in English
with a minor in communication. This
summer she will be interning at the
Chamber, doing everything from writing
articles for the ChamberLink to playing
mini-golf with the Diplomats!
Governor Nathan Deal is pictured here being interviewed by Calvin Means on his
recent visit to Dalton to visit with the Carpet and Rug Outlet Stores. While speaking
with the Governor is certainly an honor, it’s all in a day’s work for Calvin and his
Newswatch reporters. Calvin Means and the team at WDNN have served the
Dalton-Whitfield Community with excellent news coverage for many years. We will
miss tuning into Newswatch! Thank you for your community service. Stay tuned for
local programming such as Dalton-Whitfield Today where Chamber President Brian
Anderson keeps you informed of local business news.
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Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Ribbon Cuttings
Ribbon Cuttings
June 2011
A Peace of Mind In-Home Care, Inc.
Kimberly Nix
3456 Misty Meadows Drive
(706) 278-4637
1st Franklin Financial Corp.
Mandy McClain
601 A Fleming Street
(706) 226-7417
Iron Gate Pizzeria
Rusty Davis
239 N. Hamilton Street
(706) 529-3736
IVC U.S., Inc.
Xavier Steyaert
101 IVC Drive
(706) 370-4610
Select Leasing and Management
Andrea Gravitt
321 Glenwood Avenue
(706) 277-3434
Three Guys Garage
Junior Lumpkin
1818 Chattanooga Road
(706) 529-9474
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
13
Morning Mixer
Morning Mixer at North Georgia Yoga Studio
Diplomats Bob Sheth (Super 8 North), Andrea Gravitt (Select
Leasing & Management) learn a yoga pose from Cathy
“C.C.” Carter, owner of North Georgia Yoga Studio.
Connie Carter (Dynamic Displays & Graphics) and Margie
Smith (Health One Alliance) visit during the event.
Cheryle Schoeneman and Tim Rowe with Ponders Funeral
Home sign up for a class.
Linda Summer (Massage Associates of Dalton) and David
Helms (State Farm, Dan Combs Agency) enjoy the networking opportunities attending a Member Mixer provides.
Next Morning Mixer:
Thursday, June 23
The Emery Center
110 W. Emery St.
5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Free to attend
14
Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Anniversaries
Sophie’s Place
celebrates25 years
The staff of Sophie’s Place held an open house event to celebrate their 25th Anniversary.
June 2011
Dorsett Industries
celebrates 50 years
Dorsett Industries President Bryan Macon enjoys a few
words from company founder Stan Goodroe.
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
15
Member Mixer
Member Mixer at Julian Peeples Funeral Home
Dan Peeples (Julian Peeples Funeral Home) greets Josh Sherwood Marianne Murry (Shaw Industries) makes a new friend, Lucy
the therapy dog.
and Sheena Myers both with AAA Auto Club South.
Susan Newberry (Carpet & Rug Institute) and Kasandra Helms Ashlee Godfrey (Edward Jones Investments) and Dennis
Mock (Whitco Produce) meet during the event at Julian
(Better Business Bureau) get to know each other at the
Peeples Funeral Home.
Member Mixer.
Next Member Mixer:
State Farm Insurance-Brandon Combs
Thursday, June 16
236 N. Hamilton St., Unit 1
8:00 a.m - 9:00 a.m.
Free to attend!
16
Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
Go Green
2011 Chamber
“Green” Sponsor
Dalton Solar Farm
Beats Expectations
Georgia's first Utility Solar
Farm, which was engineered, procured, and constructed by URE, is producing power, and more than
initially expected. The grassy field in southern Whitfield
County is owned by Georgia Power Co., who financed and
owns the project. In less than two months, the field was converted to a solar power plant for almost 1600 solar panels,
soaking up 10% more power than officials projected. "The
project went extremely smoothly," said Mike Jolley, Vice
President and Special Projects Manager with Dalton Utilities.
"It is putting out more energy than we had anticipated."
With two more phases expected to begin later in the year,
Dalton Utilities will purchase the power in a 25-year lease
agreement. With several manufacturing plants already
equipped with roof systems, the city of Dalton can proudly
call itself the Solar Capitol of Georgia.
The cost of Solar PV projects has reached an all-time low. In
the last 2 years, module prices have dropped 40%, while
tax incentives have been extended in
Georgia alone for the next 3 years. As a result, solar
power has emerged as the fastest growing form of renewable energy around the globe.
Georgia Power - Dalton Utilities Photo - final panel installation.
Is your company Green? If so, share your story with us and the business community.
Email your story to Beth Morrison: morrison@daltonchamber.org and you may be featured in an upcoming issue of ChamberLink.
June 2011
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
17
Spotlight on Business
TOP PROformers
Many companies risk hiring new employees with preexisting injuries that cost them thousands of dollars. One
of the most economical solutions to this problem is preemployment screening.
Today’s top companies understand the importance of hiring healthy employees. Our mission is to save lost revenue by providing leading businesses the necessary
knowledge obtained through pre-screening before any
new employee is hired. But it does not stop there. In
addition, TOP PROformance focuses on decreasing work
related injuries by utilizing video &/or photographic
analysis of the employee once hired. This analysis is
then translated to employee and employer for any necessary adaptations saving additional money in potential
workman comp claims.
The TOP PROformance On-site “Sprains & Strains” Clinic
addresses employees who have work related risks that
lead to injury. A licensed Medical professional will eval-
uate the employee and recommend treatment to
decrease aggravation of their pain. This “Sprains &
Strains” clinic reduces workers compensation claims by
providing treatment or recommendations to both employee and employer.
TOP PROformance also provides Health Improvement
Programs (HIP – formerly known as Wellness Programs).
These are company specific and can be as basic or
comprehensive as desired. Some medium sized companies have programs costing less than $2500/year.
In the event a worker is injured, TOP PROformance
works closely with a Therapist in your area to provide a
job specific return to work therapy and work conditioning program(s). Workers may need a Functional
Capacity Evaluation or FCE to determine their physical
abilities. The goal of the FCE is to safely return the
employee to work.
Call us to see how we can provide your company with
the TOP PROformers 706-331-0028.
TOP PROformance would like to Thank the DaltonWhitfield Chamber of Commerce for all of their help
and support. Thank you Chamber & Chamber Members.
18
Chamber Link
www.daltonchamber.org
June 2011
New Members & Updates
NEW MEMBERS
Eagle Eye Home Inspections
Al Gross
1610 Beaverdale Road NE
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 428-2366
Fax: (706) 428-2365
www.eagle-eye-home-inspections.biz
Construction
Home Inspections
Services
Edward Jones-Godfrey, Ashlee
Ashlee Godfrey
117 N. Hamilton St.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 876-2420
www.edwardjones.com
Brokers, Stocks & Bonds
Financial Consultants
Financial Investment Services
Select Leasing and
Management
Andrea Gravitt
321 Glenwood Ave.
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 277-3434
Fax: (706) 816-9833
www.slamhomes.com
Property Management
• Welcome to Alex Mocine with
Chalet Valley Apartments.
• Welcome to Renee Smith with
O’Gwin Investment Planning,
Inc.
• Welcome to Teresa Coder with
Peachtree Estates Assisted
Living.
MEMBER UPDATES
• Welcome to Yessica Guerrero with
AT&T.
• Welcome to Misty Childers with
Dalton Area Convention &
Visitors Bureau.
• Welcome to Bill Martin the new
branch manager at Regions BankW. Walnut Ave. Branch.
• Welcome to Megan Robinson with
The Yarn Shop.
Do you have changes at your company?
E-mail Maria Saldana at
saldana@daltonchamber.org
to have them featured in the next ChamberLink.
Heartlite Hospice
Theresa Davis
1101 Abutement Rd Suite 108
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 272-1035
Hospice
Iron Gate Pizzeria, The
Rusty Davis
239 N. Hamilton St.
Dalton, GA 30720
Phone: (706) 529-3736
Fax: (706) 260-1324
www.irongatepizzeria.com
Restaurants
Northwest Georgia Muscle,
L.L.C.
Al Gross
1610 Beaverdale Road NE
Dalton, GA 30721
Phone: (706) 428-2366
Fax: (706) 428-2365
www.nwgamuscle.com
Fitness/Wellness Centers
Recreation
June 2011
www.daltonchamber.org
Chamber Link
19
PRST. STD.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Dalton, GA
Permit #502
Measure of Success:
Having a commercial banker who is a partner and a friend
Discover how successful your company can be when you have a personal
relationship with a commercial banker you can count on and trust, day in
and day out.
> Commercial Lending
> Business Internet Banking
> Business Online Library
> Commercial Deposit Products
and Services
Return Service Requested
Dalton-Whitfield Chamber of Commerce
890 College Drive
Dalton, GA 30720
Cohutta Banking Company commercial bankers work with you to help
achieve your company’s financial goals. We offer the sophisticated
products you need, including enhanced Business Internet Banking and
our Business Online Library, paired with commercial banking expertise
and local decision making to build powerful business banking solutions
that are ready to work for you.
> Treasury Services
> Payment Services
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