The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

Gwinnett Chamber Recruits New Senior Level Executive

2011-10-07T09:58:00.001-04:00

Craig Brown assumes role as new Chief Financial Officer for nationally-recognized Metro Atlanta membership organization

Metro Atlanta, GA – The Gwinnett Chamber recently named Craig Brown as its new Chief Financial Officer. Brown will replace Larry Johnson – former CFO and Sr. Vice President of the Gwinnett Chamber – who is retiring at the end of this year. Brown will manage the comprehensive financial operations of the organization while working with each department to drive smart-solution expense management and enhance and grow the Chamber’s overall bottom line.

“I am very excited to join such a strong, vibrant and financially healthy organization like the Gwinnett Chamber,” said Brown. “In these economic times, it is more important than ever to create and drive innovative financial solutions and I look forward to working with a dedicated team to build on the growth and success that the Chamber has already seen and take it to the next level.”

Brown brings over 20 years of experience in financial management, most recently having worked at Outcomes Health Information Solutions in Alpharetta where he served as the Vice President and Corporate Controller. Having worked in public and private companies where he managed everything from mergers and acquisitions to strategic plans, risk assessment, forecasting and modeling, investor relations, treasury/cash management and more, Brown has successfully achieved high-level goals across eight organizations in his 20+ year financial career.

Jim Maran, President and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber and Brown’s reporting manager said, “Craig brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to his new role with us. He comes highly recommended by many in the community, has delivered a legacy of success in his career and we are excited to have him as part of our team.”

Brown holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Financial Management from Clemson University and is a Certified Public Accountant. He resides with his wife and two children in Duluth, Georgia. For more information on the Chamber’s executive team, visit www.gwinnettchamber.org/staff.

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Georgia Power President/CEO Paul Bowers to Speak at Gwinnett Chamber on September 15

2011-09-07T16:00:00.000-04:00

Bowers to Give an Update on the Energy Market and Discuss How Georgia Power is Working to Face Future Challenges

Duluth, GA- Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is honored to announce that the CEO of Georgia Power, Paul Bowers will be the guest speaker for the General Membership Meeting Presented by Rocket IT on September 14, 2011 at The 1818 Club from 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Chamber members and guests will have the unique opportunity to get an update on the energy market from one of the leaders of the nation’s largest producers of electricity.

“We are excited and honored to have Georgia Power President & CEO Paul Bowers as the keynote speaker for our General Membership Meeting. Mr. Bowers has demonstrated excellent leadership skills in the energy market and is successfully servings thousands of Georgia citizens through his dedication to the nation’s largest producers of electricity,” said Jim Maran, President & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber. “His outstanding background of environmental and economic leadership has benefited local communities and abroad. Our Chamber members will be empowered and inspired by Paul Bowers’ accomplishments.”

Paul Bowers became president and CEO of Georgia Power January 1, 2011. Before becoming CEO of Georgia Power, Paul Bower served with the Southern company for 30 years and has obtained leadership positions such as being the chief financial officer and executive vice president of Southern Company. From 2001 to 2008, he has served as the president of the Southern Company overseeing fossil fuel and hydro generation, fleet operations, research, and environmental affairs. Bowers was named Southern Company’s chief financial officer and chief risk officer, where he directed accounting, finance, tax, investor relations, and treasury and risk management functions. Paul Bowers was recognized as one of the top three CFOs in the utility industry. Bowers serves on the board of Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited, the Atlanta Metro Chamber of Commerce, the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and Georgia Department of Economic Development.

General Membership Meetings are held once a month providing an opportunity for Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce members as well as members of the community to stay abreast of important issues in Gwinnett and Metro Atlanta, network with other business professionals and have a chance to listen to renowned speakers from all types of industries.

The cost to attend is $45 for members and $55 for non-Chamber members. Advanced registration is required. Walk-ins at the event are not guaranteed a spot at the luncheon. Register online at www.gwinnettchamber.org/events.

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Congressman Rob Woodall Reveals Plan for Balanced Budget Amendment in Exclusive Interview with the Gwinnett Chamber

2011-09-06T15:20:00.000-04:00

Woodall Gives Candid Feedback on Public Policy Issues Affecting Gwinnett Businesses

Gwinnett County, Metro Atlanta, Ga. (September 6, 2011) – The Gwinnett Chamber recently sat down with Congressman Rob Woodall for an exclusive interview on issues affecting Gwinnett businesses including the recent passage of the Budget Control Act. This legislation allows for the historic opportunity to pass a Balanced Budget Amendment. Woodall also discussed other key issues including fostering economic growth by removing trade barriers and excessive government regulation that place an undue burden on American businesses.

Speaking to the Budget Control Act, Congressman Woodall made this comment, “I knew this was something we could use as a tool. For the first time in American history, we tied a debt ceiling increase to a dollar for dollar reduction in spending. I think that’s something that is going to stick with America.”

“The Budget Control Act not only puts a cap on future spending, it puts a Balanced Budget Amendment back on the table for the first time in fifteen years—and we will do it before the year’s end,” continued Congressman Woodall. “A Balanced Budget Amendment will be a huge-game changer for this country. However, my colleagues and I cannot do it alone. A Balanced Budget Amendment requires the full support of the American people in order to pass it in Congress with a two thirds majority and be sent to the States for ratification. Voters must rally and call on their leaders to pass a Balanced Budget Amendment.”

Conducting the interview, Jann Moore, Senior Director of Public Policy and Education at the Gwinnett Chamber, also discussed other important issues with Congressman Woodall, which include removing trade barriers and excessive regulation of American businesses. On trade barriers, Congressman Woodall commented on the need to remove the barriers that make American companies want to relocate overseas. He then called on local business owners themselves to help make a difference.

“Local chambers are perfectly placed to bring rifle shot ideas,” said Congressman Woodall. “Your members are going to know more about their business than we ever will. We need these experts to bring their ideas to the forefront.”

Encouraging local business owners to get involved, Moore reiterated the importance of contacting your Senators and Representatives on business issues that matter, “Whether it is on the Balanced Budget Amendment, regulations that hinder your ability to do business or trade barriers, let your voice be heard.”

There are numerous opportunities for involvement in the Gwinnett Chamber’s Public Policy efforts. For more information, contact Jann Moore, Senior Director of Public Policy and Education, Gwinnett Chamber, at 678-672-2555 or jann@gwinnettchamber.org.

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Gwinnett Chamber Kicks Off 27th Class of Leadership Gwinnett

2011-08-23T16:54:00.001-04:00

Class to Be Led by New Leadership and Education Director Lisa Zaken

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce recently kicked off the 27th class of Leadership Gwinnett which will train Gwinnett’s newest leaders in the business, civic, and cultural communities from August 2011 – May 2012. From the nearly 800 nominations received each year for the nine-month experience, Leadership Gwinnett alumni selected the final group of 40 based on work experience, accomplishments, community involvement, education and other information from their individual applications. The program year is comprised of two overnight retreats, seven one-day symposia covering world class community, infrastructure, economics, education, health & human services, justice and regional relations, as well as monthly study groups and other activities.

“Choosing the class requires balancing the occupations, qualifications and commitment of the candidates to insure a representation that reflects a cross section of the county. The caliber of these applicants makes selection more difficult. Since the class size is limited to 40, many excellent candidates are not chosen on their first nomination. For this reason, we strongly encourage candidates to apply again if not selected,” said Jann Moore, sr. director, public policy and education, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

“Leadership Gwinnett has been a tremendous success for our county. Since the program’s inception in 1985, over 800 alumni have taken their places in our community as decision makers and role models. Leadership graduates can be found in every aspect of Gwinnett business, civic and cultural life,” said Jim Maran, president and CEO, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

This year’s Leadership Gwinnett Class will be led by the Gwinnett Chamber’s new Leadership and Education Director, Lisa Zaken. A 2005 graduate of Leadership Gwinnett, Zaken has devoted many volunteer hours to the Leadership Gwinnett program, including serving as the alumni chair of the communications committee since 2008. Lisa was also the event organizer for the Leadership Gwinnett World Class Community Committee in 2007, co-chair of the Education Day committee in 2006, as well as event organizer for the Education Day Committee in 2005. Zaken was instrumental in the success of the Leadership Gwinnett 25th Anniversary Party last year.

“I look forward to supporting the mission of Leadership Gwinnett – to educate, equip, and engage leaders to serve and strengthen Gwinnett County and the region,” said Zaken. “I am excited about working with the 2011-2012 class who represent a new set of modern leaders affecting positive change in Gwinnett and the region for decades to come.”
The 2011 – 2012 Leadership Gwinnett Class includes:

Ruth Bettandorff, University of Georgia, Gwinnett Campus
Susan Boland Butts, Hi-Hope Service Center, Inc.
Joy Bolt, Georgia Gwinnett College
Kyle Bowen, Development Planning & Engineering, Inc.
Cliff Bray, Westbrook, McGrath, Bridges, Orth & Bray
Melissa Burton, Annandale Village
Kevin Carmichael, Georgia Chamber of Commerce
Brian Carmony, Andersen Tate & Carr, P.C.
Jackson Chang, Golden Seed International Group
Jay Dennard, Gwinnett Medical Center
Samuel Donley, Fifth Third Bank
Dick Goodman, Suwanee City Council
Kristen Griffin, Merial
Stephanie Hills, Cisco Systems, Inc.
Beth Hilscher, Beth S. Hilscher, P.C.
Tom Jackson, Eastside Medical Center
Debbie Kalec, RBC Bank
Laurie Ann Kimbrell, American Red Cross
Dan Kniffen, Drew, Eckl & Farnham
Chris Earnest, E2E Benefit Services, Inc.
Greg Lahatte, Gwinnett County Public Schools
Tim Le, Exit Realty Platinum
P. K. Martin, Hood Insurance Agency, Inc.
Molly McAuliffe, Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology
David McNeill, 4th Strand LLC
Steve Moyers, Gwinnett Technical College
Ron Osterloh, Pond & Company
Jaye Peabody, Covenant Counseling & Family Resource Center
Stephen Pereira, Thompson & Sweeney, P.C.
John Reidy, O’Brien & Gere Engineers, Inc.
Ken Rutherford, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce
Ed Shaddix, North Gwinnett High School
Kelly Sloan, Georgia United Credit Union
Anne Soutter, Primerica
Richard Steele, Gwinnett County Office of the Tax Commissioner
Alex Villasana, Christos Community Church
Kendra Washington-Bass, Gwinnett County Public Schools
Mark Willis, Georgia School Boards Association
Lisa Winton, Winton Machine Company
Latabia Woodward, Southern Company

Leadership Gwinnett Sustaining Partners, whose generous financial support helps to make the program possible, include Andersen, Tate & Carr, PC; Brand Banking Company, Brand Mortgage Group, Cisco, Georgia Gwinnett College, Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation, Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation, King & Spalding, and McKenna Long & Aldridge, LLP.

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Regional Transportation Projects to Transform Mobility for Metro Atlanta Receives Historic Approval

2011-08-19T17:21:00.000-04:00

Gwinnett Chamber Applauds Efforts of Atlanta Regional Transportation Leaders

The Gwinnett Chamber is pleased to report that the Executive Committee of the Atlanta Regional Transportation Roundtable made history on Monday reaching a unanimous agreement on a draft list of transportation projects that will help to create jobs, increase quality of life, and give valued time back to citizens across the metro Atlanta region. The five-member committee - including mayors and county commissioners from across the Atlanta region - voted to approve a $6.14 billion draft list of transportation projects to be potentially funded by a penny sales tax to come before voters next year.

Gwinnett was well-represented during the process by Gwinnett County Commission Chairman Charlotte Nash and City of Norcross Mayor Bucky Johnson who received valuable input from Gwinnett County Transportation Director Brian Allen allowing for the needs of Gwinnett County to be met while keeping the best interest of the region in mind.

"Reaching a unanimous agreement on a draft transportation list is a huge positive step showcasing the solidarity of the region. The efforts of the elected officials involved in the process from the 10 county region who worked to select a list of projects with the greatest impact should be applauded and recognized," said Jim Maran, president & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber. "Realizing that residents don't stay within the boundaries of their respective counties, this effort will bring in a new era of transportation that will benefit the entire region."

The list - containing road, interchange improvement, bus, rail and bicycle path projects - must be approved by the full 21-member roundtable by October 15 and submitted to the Georgia Department of Transportation. Until then, residents of all 10 counties in the Atlanta region will have the opportunity to provide continued input to the final project list through a series of public meetings planned throughout the Atlanta region. Gwinnett residents are encouraged to attend the county's scheduled meeting on Monday, September 26 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center.

In addition, the Gwinnett Chamber will host a "State of Transportation" forum on November 2 offering the chance to learn more about the future of mobility in metro Atlanta. In the meantime, more information on the Transportation Investment Act, including the approved constrained project list, can found at www.atlantaregionalroundtable.com.

Gwinnett Chamber Business Expo Showcases Business and Job Growth

2011-08-19T17:11:00.002-04:00

Trade Show Exceeds Expectations with Attendance and More Than 150 Exhibitors

VIDEO NEWS RELEASE

Duluth, GA - From educational seminars to one-on-one meetings at the Job Fair to a sold out General Membership Luncheon featuring Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens, the 2011 Gwinnett Business Expo & Job Fair Presented by Gwinnett Medical Center demonstrated once again the regional collaboration and leadership that Gwinnett has become known for in Metro Atlanta and why Gwinnett is leading the way in business growth and job creation. The Business Expo and Job Fair, held on August 18, 2011 at the Convention Center at Gwinnett Center, had a record attendance in the thousands and featured a variety of attractions designed to keep businesses abreast of the newest products and services in the Gwinnett business market from more than 150 exhibitors.

"I am pleased to provide Georgia citizens with the highest quality of legal representation as we uphold the laws and Constitution of Georgia," said Georgia Attorney General Sam Olens. "The Office of the Attorney General is a leader in helping the state government to operate openly, affording local communities like Gwinnett an optimal business environment and a superior quality of life."

The Expo, like the Gwinnett Chamber, focuses on growing businesses throughout Gwinnett County and Metro Atlanta. Programs such as the Expo help to create a pro-business environment for companies looking to grow and expand in Gwinnett resulting in more quality jobs and a better quality of life.

"The Business Expo & Job Fair does a fantastic job of showcasing the internal collaboration of business, education, and government along with the regional mindset that Gwinnett has become known for in Metro Atlanta," said Jim Maran, president & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber. "The business activity shown today is second to none giving a feel for Gwinnett's vibrant economy and its thriving business and economic environment."

Over 150 business exhibitors who help to make up Gwinnett's thriving business environment participated in this year's expo where they had the opportunity to cultivate new business and network with fellow business professionals. "The high-energy environment combined with unparalleled B2B face-to-face time made for a great day of generating quality leads and networking," said Michael Baldwin, sales manager of business accounts, Charter Business.

As a testament to the more than 12,000 jobs created since the launch of the award-winning community and economic development initiative, Partnership Gwinnet, the Job Fair featured over 35 exhibitors who were actively looking for qualified talent to fill open positions. "The Job Fair presented Mobile Communications with a unique opportunity to meet with a host of skilled candidates all in one day," said Cathy Nichols, president, Mobile Communications. "Events such as the Chamber's Job Fair helps our company to continue its path of success."

In addition to Presenting Sponsor Gwinnett Medical Center, sponsors include Silent Auction Sponsor: Delta Community Credit Union; Media Sponsor: Gwinnett Daily Post; Platinum Sponsors AT&T Real Yellow Pages, Talk 920, and Mundo Hispanico; Gold Sponsors Gwinnett Center, Gwinnett Convention & Visitors Bureau, Proof of the Pudding, Staples, Toshiba; and Silver Sponsors Allgood Pest Solutions, Beyond Signs, Charter Business, DeVry University, Purchasing Alliance Solutions, and The Sign Stop.

For more information on the Business Expo & Job Fair visit www.gwinnettbusinessexpo.com. In addition, for more information on Gwinnett's record-breaking business growth and job creation activity and the continuation of the award-winning community and economic development initiative, Partnership Gwinnett, register for the Partnership Gwinnett Summit on August 26 at www.pgsummit.com.

LIVE from LAWRENCEVILLE!

2011-05-19T16:08:00.001-04:00

11Alive is coming to a town near you! 11Alive News Today will broadcast their WHERE U LIVE Tour from downtown Lawrenceville Friday morning on the grounds of the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.

Come out and meet the Jill Becker, Karyn Greer, Chesley McNeil, Donna Lowry and the morning crew at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.

Friday's edition of 11Alive News Today will feature special stories about the City of Lawrenceville and the people who live there.

WHAT: 11Alive News Today Visits Where U Live - Lawrenceville

WHO: Jill Becker, Karyn Greer, Chesley McNeil and the morning show team

WHEN: Friday, May 20; 4:30 a.m. until 7 a.m.

WHERE: Historic Gwinnett Courthouse

GWINNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSION CHAIRMAN CHARLOTTE NASH TO KEYNOTE THE ANNUAL STATE OF THE COUNTY ADDRESS

2011-05-10T10:44:00.002-04:00

Chairman Nash to Give Community's Outlook at May 18 Joint Meeting

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the Council for Quality Growth will be hosting Gwinnett County Board of Commission Chairman Charlotte Nash and the Board of Commissioners for the annual State of the County Address Presented by Gas South on March 18, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. at the Gwinnett Center. Attendees will have the chance to hear the Chairman's vision for the county in 2011.

"Gwinnett County continues to be a leader in infrastructure development, quality of life and economic development. I look forward to Chairman Nash's outlook as she leads Gwinnett to a robust and prosperous 2011," said Michael Paris, president and CEO, Council for Quality Growth.

With the election of Gwinnett's newest leader, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash, come new beginnings and new outlooks for 2011 and 2012. The May 18th annual State of the County Address will offer Gwinnett business and community leaders the opportunity to get to know the newest leader of Gwinnett's local government, Chairman Charlotte Nash.

During her 27-year career with Gwinnett County, Charlotte Nash worked as a Grants Manager/Accountant, Budget Manager, Finance Director/Chief Financial Officer and County Administrator. She managed 24 annual budgets and implemented capital budgeting and long-term financial planning processes. Her leadership was instrumental in gaining the coveted AAA/Aaa ratings from the three major bond rating agencies.

"Gwinnett County is in an exciting time with a future that is promising and hopeful. The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners is working hard to create and maintain prosperity," said Jim Maran, president and CEO, Gwinnett Chamber.

"We are pleased to welcome and hear Chairman Nash speak at the State of the County Address."

For more information on the State of the County Address, visit www.gwinnettstateofthecounty.com.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber
Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

About the Council for Quality Growth
Now in its 26th year, the Council for Quality Growth promotes balanced and responsible growth through the platforms of advocacy, information and education. The Council addresses strategic economic development, planning and infrastructure needs as well as tough quality-of-life issues. The Council is proactively involved in the formulation of policy and legislation critical to economic development and represents its members on local, regional, state and federal issues.

Great American Cleanup: Join the Gwinnett Chamber in Making Gwinnett America’s Greenest and Cleanest Community!

2011-04-29T16:56:00.002-04:00

Thousands of citizens will join Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful and get in the saddle and "giddy up" to make Gwinnett America's Greenest and Cleanest community. The first step towards achieving this goal is to participate in Keep America Beautiful's Great American Cleanup, the nation's largest community improvement program.

The 2011 Great American Cleanup is reminding families and businesses that a greener and cleaner environment for us all starts in our own back yards. Giddy up for green and get involved! Beginning March 15, any interested local community groups and organizations can look in their own backyards for a project or visit www.gwinnettcb.org and select a Great American Cleanup activity. All projects must be completed between March 15 and May 15 to compete for cash prizes. Prizes will be awarded based on the biggest transformation and impact on the community.

For more than 30 years, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful has inspired the caretakers of our futureby building strategic alliances among citizens, businesses, civic organizations and government that motivate everybody to roll up their sleeves and produce real results on the ground, where it counts.

"Communities that are clean and cared for help deter crime and keep our streets and neighborhoods safe. Our organization is pleased to announce the Gwinnett Chamber as a strategic partner for our program", said Bartow Morgan, chair, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful.

"The Gwinnett Chamber is pleased to support this effort," said Jim Maran, president & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber. "Green and sustainable communities provide a solid quality of life essential to business growth and recruitment. It is imperative to Gwinnett's long-term stability that we strive toward a greener and cleaner environment."

The Gwinnett Chamber will be participating in the Great American Cleanup by holding an all-day cleanup of Shorty Howell Park in Duluth on Friday, May 13. Chamber members are invited to join the Gwinnett Chamber to "play in the dirt" and give back to the community. Participants only need to bring/wear work clothes and bring garden gloves. The park staff will furnish the rest. There are picnic grounds, so it is encouraged that participants bring their lunch and eat in the pavilion. For more information, contact Pat Brannon at 770-232-88017 or pat@gwinnettchamber.org. Click here to register online.

In addition to participating in the Gwinnett Chamber's cleanup efforts, Chamber members and local organizations and businesses are encouraged to participate in their own cleanup efforts. A list of project activities can be found at www. gwinnettcb.org.

To get more information and download an application packet and report results, interested groups should visit www.gwinnettcb.org.

HOW TO Participate in the Great American Cleanup : Gwinnett Challenge!

The Great American Cleanup is the nation's largest annual community improvement program. Put a paintbrush in your holster, and make a difference in your community. Your work could win you cash prizes!

Take the reins

1. Get in the saddle: Choose at least one activity from the Great American Activity List

2. Head 'em up, move 'em out: Collect volunteers and resources

3. Don't stop kickin' till the clock stops tickin': Conduct your project by May 15, 2011

4. The round-up: Share your results! Submit a post-project summary by May 25, 2011 with 5-10 digital before and after pictures

5. Hi-yo, Silver!: Compete for cash prizes

What projects are elegible?

• City Slickers Need Forests Too (tree planting and care)

• Giddy-up for Green (beautification)

• Litter, there ain't room in this town for the two of us (litter

cleanups)

• Holler at the Squalor (dumpsite cleanups)

• Graffiti's a Goner (graffiti eradication)

• Recycling Round-up

• Neaten Up Your Neck of the Woods (neighborhood

cleanups)

Take our suggestion, or create your own project. So much to do, so get along lil' doggie!

What groups are eligible?

• Neighborhood or Tenant Associations

• School Groups

• Civic Groups

• Scout Groups

• Athletic Groups

• Churches

What are the prizes?

• Seven $500 cash prizes awarded! (1 in each of 7 categories)

• One winner will be chosen out of each category by a

Selection Committee

• Prizes are awarded based on the biggest transformation and

impact on the community

• Winning entries will be posted on GC&B website

Contact

Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful Services, Inc.

Connie Wiggins, Executive Director

Phone: 770.822.5187 Email:cwiggins@gwinnettcb.org

GWINNETT CHAMBER ANNOUNCES TOP SMALL BUSINESSES AND NON-PROFITS OF THE YEAR

2011-04-29T15:46:00.002-04:00

2011Pinnacle Awards recognize leaders in growth, innovation and community support

The Pinnacle Small Business Awards Presented by Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) are among the Chamber's most prestigious awards. The celebration recognized both emerging companies as well as companies that have exhibited a substantial history as an established business.

Commdex Consulting, LLC Owner Prince Niyyar was awarded the 2011 Overall Gwinnett Small Business Person of the Year Award and was also the winner of Gwinnett's Small Business Person of the Year for the 10 - 99 employee category at the Gwinnett Chamber's Pinnacle Small Business Awards Luncheon on April 29. Additional Small Business Persons of the Year Awards were presented to Mark and Anne Lackey with Atlanta Housing Source at Solid Source Realty for the 1 – 9 employee category and Teddy Russell with Russell Landscape Group, Inc. for the 100+ employee category. Twenty-two additional small businesses were also awarded Pinnacle Awards and named among the prestigious "Pinnacle Top 25" for demonstrating extraordinary growth and contributions to the community.

"These risk-takers, innovators, and givers are the ones who create jobs and provide much-needed services for our community, leading to a better quality of life for everyone," said Gwinnett Chamber President & CEO Jim Maran. "These are the leaders who are laying the foundation for a bright future full of hopes, dreams and opportunities. For this, these small business owners and non-profits deserve to be recognized and celebrated."

The companies honored at the luncheon were selected from hundreds of nominations and from 50 finalists as Gwinnett's Top 25 Pinnacle Small Business Award Winners. Companies were selected based on steady and above average growth and profitability, growth in number of employees, contributions to the community, overcoming adversity, original entrepreneurship and more, as defined by the Small Business Administration for their statewide and national awards. Commdex Consulting, LLC, Atlanta Housing Source at Solid Source Realty, and Russell Landscape Group, Inc. scored the highest combined scores in their respective employee categories.

From those three winners, Commdex Consulting came away with the highest scores overall, winning Gwinnett's Overall Small Business Person of the Year, and will go on to compete as Georgia's Small Business Person of the Year.

The Gwinnett Chamber and Presenting Sponsor AJC also recognized Gwinnett's top non-profit organizations, whose generous and inspiring efforts can be seen and felt throughout Gwinnett. Receiving the Pinnacle Non-Profit Awards are the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia for the top small non-profit category, Annandale Village for the top mid-size nonprofit category, and Hi-Hope Service Center for the top large non-profit category. The non-profits honored at the luncheon were selected based on board of directors strength; staying power; growth in employees/volunteers and budget; innovation of service; response to adversity; and overall contribution to the community.

A new addition to the ceremony, the Pacesetter Award, was presented to Brand Mortgage Group, LLC. In a time of economic uncertainty, the recipient of the first-ever Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Pacesetter Award raced past its competition -- displaying innovative practices and determination. The ability to grow at a record-setting pace while maintaining focus and providing a quality service has allowed this year's pacesetter, Brand Mortgage, to overcome adversity and stand out in a crowd.

The Pinnacle Small Business Award Winners

Commdex Consulting, LLC - Overall Small Business Person of the Year and Small Business Person of the Year (10 - 99 employee category)
Starting with a personal investment of only $2500, Prince Niyyar, owner of Commdex Consulting, LLC has kept his company debt free since its inception in 2001. Commdex – a wireless systems integrator specializing in design and implementation of wireless solutions – is a true American entrepreneurial success story starting with Prince coming to American from his native India with only a few dollars in his pocket. What is truly admirable is his determination in overcoming the challenges of a language barrier, lack of capital and a business network to grow a vibrant business that made the Inc 500 list of "Fastest Growing Companies in the Nation" in 2010.

Atlanta Housing Source at Solid Source Realty - Small Business Person of the Year (1 – 9 employees)
In what most people and news outlets portray as a "bad time for home sales," Atlanta Housing Source at Solid Source Realty continues to excel and perform in the top of their industry with caring service that is second to none. Husband and wife team Mark and Anne Lackey are growing their real estate company in a down market by employing agents with servant hearts enabling them to respond to the many people who are underwater on their mortgages and find solutions for them so that they can move forward with their lives. By serving individuals one at a time, the Lackey's grew their company by an astounding 76.8 percent in 2010.

Russell Landscape Group, Inc. - Small Business Person of the Year (100+ employee category)
Over the past couple of years, the landscape industry was hit with increasingly high gas prices, employment challenges, and traffic issues. With only one operational location in Gwinnett, Russell Landscape Group - a 24 year old family-owned and managed commercial landscape company – was at a crossroads with large expenses in gas and labor sitting in trucks slowly moving through metro Atlanta traffic. While other companies were cutting back expenses, Russell Landscape Group was busy expanding to three different locations in metro Atlanta to reduce gas and labor costs. This strategy was proven successful with revenues over $20 million and listed in the top three landscape companies in metro Atlanta by the Atlanta Business Chronicle.

AlphaGraphics
Jodi Pierce, owner of AlphaGraphics, which provides digital and offset printing as well as design services and large format printing, prides herself in working with clients by helping them to understand their job and how to most cost effectively produce the job. By taking the time to teach clients design related issues for the benefits of the client's business and by looking at the client's bottom line on an expense and revenue side, Jodi's company achieved an impressive 20 percent growth rate in 2010.

American Painting & Renovations, Inc.
Almost two decades have passed since Sid Theus began doing business as a small local paint contractor. Since those early days, hard work, a clear vision and planning has allowed American Painting & Renovations – offering a wide variety of renovation services for the multi-family and commercial industries – to grow into a nationally recognized renovation contractor. When most construction companies were closing their doors, American Painting & Renovations' forward thinking, comprehensive planning, innovative cost cutting measures, and aggressive new marketing strategies has allowed the company to weather the economic storm.

ASK Staffing, Inc.
ASK Staffing's belief that innovation happens every day, and even more so in tough times, helped them throough some of the worst years in the history of the staffing industry. Through their belief in innovations and past experiences, ASK Staffing made strategic plans to target government clients. With a handful of current state and local government clients, ASK Staffing assembled a team of experts allowing them to win nine additional state clients and several local government clients. This combined with efforts to position ASK staffing to assist with a few Fortune 500 companies has allowed for ongoing growth even in tough times.

Atlanta Flooring Design Centers, Inc.
Atlanta Flooring Design Centers identified and seized a unique opportunity that presented itself to grow the business in a time when virtually all construction related companies suffered losses. By servicing multiple market segments and developing a flooring and cabinet solution, Atlanta Flooring saw a sales increase of 42 percent and a job growth increase of 44 percent followed by a sales growth of 30 percent and a job growth increase of 18 percent in 2010. With unprecedented growth, Atlanta Flooring Design Centers is looking to continue to grow outside of metro Atlanta as their existing customers demand their service in other markets.

Atlanta Special Events, Inc.
For over 25 years, Lori O'Brien has provided a full-service, one-stop corporate event production company servicing the entire southeast through her company Atlanta Special Events, Inc. She wows her clients through unique events like their "Party in a Parking Lot" that allows companies to hold employee appreciation events during the work day guaranteeing 100 percent participation while still getting in a half day of work. Their unique events combined with their ability to think outside of the box allowed Atlanta Special Events to make it through a few tough years while seeing a profitable 2010 with a growth rate of 43 percent.

Bardi Mechanical/Bardi Heating & Air
Alex Bardi, owner of Bardi Heating & Air will be the first to admit that there's nothing sexy about ducts, filters and sheet metal. All customers really want is a dependable, provider who installs, services and guarantees their work at a fair price. Understanding this, Bardi Heating & Air decided they must be unique in other ways. They found it by partnering with The Tommy Nobis Center in their electronic recycling program. Through their combined efforts Bardi proudly announces that Recycletronics has moved out of the Tommy Nobis headquarters into a 150,000 square foot facility of its own.

Bella Fiore' Salon, LLC
At Bella Fiore' Salon, owners Marla Peoples and Jennifer Sewell work hard to set themselves apart from the competition by giving each of their guests an experience that will make them feel special and appreciated. From greeting each client by name as often as possible when they come in, setting up the salon so that everyone can see what is going on at anytime, to making follow-up calls to each new guest, Bella Fiore creates an experience that makes them stand out earning the salon the Best of Gwinnett in 2009 and 2010 for Best Hair Salon by Gwinnett Magazine.

Cornerstone Financial Partners, LLC
As a financial services company with core values of prudent capital growth and asset protection, Cornerstone Financial Partners, LLC, had a significant challenge of helping clients understand the concerns about stock market at the end of 2007. With a decision of holding cash and not investing, as the year progressed in 2008, Cornerstone's prudence paid off in spades. In March 2009 Cornerstone made another poignant decision to enter the market and as luck would have it, they couldn't have picked a better time. By removing greed from the equation, Cornerstone accomplished prudent growth strategies for their clients while establishing a significant level of trust that will ensure success now and into the future.

Direct Technologies, Inc.
Owners of Direct Technologies, Inc. David Jacobson and Brett Coltman have seen much success in their 17 year old digital printer and letter shop service provider. One of their most significant accomplishments includes being listed among the 5000 fastest growing private companies in American – as represented by the Inc. 5000 list for four years running. They have achieved growth even when their competitors were closing their doors because of their cost efficiency and quick response.

E2E Resources
Raymer Sale began E2E Resources with one employee and zero dollars in revenue while operating from his bedroom. In the past 18 years, Raymer has grown his insurance agency that provides employee benefits, risk management, personal line, insurance, and human resource services to an organization of 17 full time and part time employees. By making adjustments to protect the company and every employee, E2E survived the economic downturn and is proudly able to make a positive contribution to the local economy while providing a safe and positive work environment.

Everdry Roofing, Inc.
While most companies in Everdry Roofing's industry struggled to keep their doors open, Owner Jamie Scuka expanded her company into commercial roof work, leak protection, and low slope maintenance. In addition to fighting a bad economy, Everydry combated negative press that the roofing industry received in 2010 while maintaining their debt free philosophy in growing their business and commitment to continuing their corporate sponsorship of Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

Green Financial Resources, LLC
Roger Green, owner of Green Financial Resources, has been building his business one client at a time since 1987. During this time Roger has serviced over 1800 clients as he has no minimum asset requirements and is willing to provide assistance to all who request it. Being a part of one of the leading fields impacted by the recent economic downturn, Green Financial Resources' overall business results remain strong and continue to recover. Roger projected last year that they would pace over $3 million, and they did. Roger is anticipating further growth in 2011 to their highest level in the history of the company.

Gwinnett Foot, Ankle & Leg Center
For over 32 years, Dr. Louis Jimenez has owned and operated Gwinnett Foot, Ankle & Leg Center. With his son and daughter joining the team as podiatrists, they have created a family atmosphere where patients immediately feel welcome. Over 30,000 patients have experienced this personal touch through birthday, thank you, and sympathy cards in addition to the occasional flowers that are sent to patients "just to make their day." Extending their family care through charitable works, the Jimenez family has participated in mission trips to Russia, Guatemala, El Salvador and Mexico where they address severe foot and ankle deformities in children.

HealthCare Partners
After consecutive years of fast growth in a down market where HealthCare Partners focused on metrics and numbers, owners Rutherford and Rhonda Polhill intentionally decided to focus on a "care" message. With help from their executive team HealthCare Partners, which provides qualified physicians and physician extenders, discovered their company's purpose – "We care for you so you can care for others." This philosophy has proved a successful one as Healthcare Partners saw a 24 percent growth rate in 2010.

Lloyd Pro Group, Inc.
James Lloyd, owner of the insurance agency Lloyd Pro Group, proudly boasts that his employees set his company apart from the competition. James proclaims that his employees work hard to make sure that the customer experience is "Raving Fan" worthy. In addition, their partnership with Nationwide further sets themselves apart from the rest by allowing Lloyd Pro Group to deliver the best insurance products for the best price.

McMahan's Sartorial Clothing
McMahan's Sartorial Clothing has over 300 competitors in the state of Georgia, but there are only three tailors in the entire state that hand draw each pattern, hand cut fabric and hand sew each garment. Owner Travis Giles stands out from the rest by offering a truly custom made, hand sewn garment that is the best value in the industry. Because of this, for over nine years Travis has helped business professionals all over Gwinnett and metro Atlanta make a good first impression.

North American Bioproducts Corporation
Founded in 2001 by Kevin Dailey, North American Bioproducts which produces quality fermentation products for fuel, beverage and industrial alcohol producers, has grown from $250,000 in annual sales to $15 million for 2010 with growth projections in excess of 11 percent in 2011. They have extended their product sales to include 10 countries and have grown from one employee to 27 for 2010 with projections of 30 plus employees in 2011. By becoming more than an ordinary vendor and employer, Bioproducts has become a place where employees want to come to work and a value-added business partner that provides a consistent product and industry leading technical services.

Paradigm Security Services, Inc.
Paradigm Security Services mission statement, "Superior Security Services Through Superior Training" has led them to a profitable business of providing professionally trained security officers and patrol services. By going above and beyond the mandatory training required by the state of Georgia and investing in a higher level of personal and professional training, Paradigm is able to provide a superior service at no additional charge to the client.

ProCare
Prosthetic Care, Inc. or ProCare, a medical practice providing prosthetic devices for upper and lower extremities for amputees, goes above and beyond the call of duty for its patients. One of many examples of their care and compassion is the development of the C.A.R.E. Initiative. Under this program, referring physicians are informed that, whenever possible, ProCare would like to begin seeing patients before the scheduled amputation. This program has resulted in shorter hospital stays and faster rehabilitation saving considerable medical expenses. Through programs like C.A.R.E., has seen a consistent sales growth of over 20 percent for each of the past three year.

Rocket IT
Matt Hyatt started Rocket IT – a full-service technology management and support company - when he just 25 years old. Having just been laid off from another job, having no entrepreneurial experience, and no money in his pockets, Matt relied on his positive attitude to get his idea and company off the ground. This positive attitude has kept Matt's business running for over 16 years and enabled him to embrace change to meet market conditions. Most recently, Rocket IT changed to become a mission critical technology partner with each client contributing to a nearly 14 percent growth rate in 2010.

U.S. GreenSource Corp.
U.S. GreenSource Corporation designs and builds "Solar Hybrid Roofscapes" for Gwinnett's eco-friendly homes. Their product is truly unique compared to asphalt architectural shingles in that their product helps to reduce petroleum consumption and dependency, pollution, household energy costs and homeowner's insurance rates. And to top it off, their products are 100 percent made in America. With just two years under their belt, U.S. GreenSource is leading Gwinnett's future for residential solar roofing systems.

Wealth Horizon, Inc.
When the market is going up, everyone is happy. When the market isn't, Jerri Hewett, owner of Wealth Horizon, Inc., knows that clients' emotions will be at the forefront of conversations. In 2002, Jerri made a key decision that positively affected her company for years to come. Vowing to never go through another downturn like the tech bubble, Jerri established a sell target on each asset that Wealth Horizon buys helping to manage risk by protecting assets during downturns. As a result, clients of Wealth Horizon saw much smaller losses in 2008 relative to market losses and Jerri's company grew revenues by 25 percent from the previous year.

Pacesetter Award

Brand Mortgage
The crash of the financial markets in 2008 could have been a devastating blow to Brand Mortgage. By becoming proactive rather than reactive and implement new systems and work flow procedures to comply with new regulation before they were required by law, Brand Mortgage was able to focus on their business while others were struggling to comply. Also leading to their staggering 101 percent growth in 2009 and 30 percent growth in 2010, Brand Mortgage teamed up with The Impact Group and their local builders to create the Northeast Georgia Downpayment Assistance Program to help buyers with their down payments. This not only helped to grow their business, it also helped local builders sell their inventory in a stagnant market, reducing foreclosures and blight in the community.

The Pinnacle Non-Profit Award Winners

Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia – Top Small Non-profit
In a five year period, the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia – which helps individuals and corporations to successfully achieve their philanthropic goals – has experienced significant growth from $14 million to $31 million in assets. Because of this growth, in 2009 and 2010 over $11.9 million in grants were issued to over 300 non-profit organization and charitable programs working in community services, health and human services, the arts, education and environmental improvements. The Community Foundation knows that the more a society practices philanthropy in any form, whether through personal time or treasure, the more stable and strong the economic climate becomes. The Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is proud to be a vehicle that provides the opportunity to design and shape our community's future.

Annandale Village – Top Mid-size Non-profit
Annandale Village - a private, non-profit organization - has been providing a community for adults with developmental disabilities and traumatic brain injury for 42 years in Gwinnett County. The quality of their service to the community has been recognized for second year in a row by U.S. News and World Report in their Top 100 Nursing Homes in America. Fundraisers such as the well-known, Jazzy Thing Fundraiser, allows Annandale to receive such recognition by providing funds to face the challenge of economic adversity head on. In addition, unique programs like the Jackson House Day Program, which promotes independence and teaches valuable tools necessary for community development by having Villagers run their own café for other Villagers and staff members, allows Annandale to meet the growing of demand of adults with developmental disabilities while helping them to participate in society as responsible citizens. All of this and more has led to Annandale being the top nursing home in the state of Georgia.

Hi-Hope Service Center – Top Large Non-profit
For over 50 years, Hi-Hope has improved the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Through their weekday programs, supportive employment services and residential group homes, Hi-Hope has increased individuals' opportunities to contribute to their community, whether through working, volunteering or participating in community activities. Without these supports, many individuals would be sitting at home, living in nursing homes or state institutions that deprive them of the rights to be productive, contributing members of their community merely because they have a disability. Despite funding cuts, a diversified funding stream implemented recently has allowed Hi-Hope to create a firm foundation for Hi-Hope to not only survive, but to flourish. A recently established tag line affirms this hope: Hi-Hope Service – 50 years strong and growing.

Additional sponsors include Platinum Sponsors Delta Community Credit Union, IntegriCom, Inc., Moore Stephens Tiller LLC, and Staples; Gold Sponsors Andersen, Tate, & Carr, PC, Brand Mortgage Group, LLC, Smith & Howard, PC, and Tillman Allen Greer, LLC; and Bronze Sponsor Rhodes, Young, Black & Duncan.

For more information on the Pinnacle Small Business Awards, visit www.pinnaclesmallbusinessawards.com.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber
Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

GWINNETT CHAMBER RECOGNIZES PUBLIC SAFETY PROFESSIONALS AT VALOR AWARDS CEREMONY

2011-03-25T14:48:00.003-04:00

Gwinnett's Public Safety Professionals Receive Top Honors for Bravery at March 25 Ceremony

Duluth, GA- To recognize Gwinnett's public safety professionals for helping to strengthen our community, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Presenting Sponsors Mobile Communications of Gwinnett and Motorola presented the sixth annual Valor Awards on March 25, 2011 at 11:30 a.m. at the Atlanta Marriott – Gwinnett Place. The keynote speaker at the event was Atlanta Fire Rescue Chief Kelvin Cochran.

This special reception honored those in public safety by presenting awards to the men and women who have given the most to protect and serve the citizens of Gwinnett. There were six different award categories including the Medal of Valor Award, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, Public Safety Unit of the Year, Communications Person of the Year and Medal of Merit.

"It is because of the heroic and courageous efforts of Gwinnett's public safety professionals that we are able to live, work and play in a safe community," said Abby Wilkerson, program manager, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

The Medal of Merit is awarded to an outstanding public safety program for the community which included personal time given both on and off the job. Battalion Chief Eddie Myers' Gwinnett Fire FLAME Program was awarded the Medal of Merit. Firefighters Lunch and Mentoring Experience (FLAME) is a successful mentoring program started by Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services' Battalion Chief Eddie Myers. His vision was to have firefighters spend their lunchtime weekly with a youth who needs an adult who will take special interest in their development. The firefighters are a friend, a guide and a support to at-risk youth. Since the program's inception in early 2009, 30 elementary schools across Gwinnett have benefited from their relationship with their firefighter mentor. Most importantly, FLAME participants have consistently exhibited dramatic improvement in school attendance and personal development, including bolstered self-esteem and sense of discipline.

The Lifesaving Award, given to the public safety person/unit in recognition of acts taken in a life-threatening situation where an individual's life is in jeopardy was awarded to Gwinnett County Firefighter Dan Rimmer. In December of 2010, Rimmer was off duty and participating in a local 5k run. A race participant had just completed the run when he collapsed. Rimmer quickly rushed to the man's side and immediately ordered the activation of EMS and called for an automatic external defibrillator (AED). By the time the medic unit had arrived on scene the patient experienced a return of spontaneous pulse and respirations from the CPR and shock administered by Rimmer. Due to the quick response and smart judgment and decision, paired with the good sense of the local church to have purchased an AED, the patient is alive and well today.

The Communications Person/Public Safety Person/Unit of the Year is awarded to those who have performed their job with exceptional skill, expertise, innovation and results.

The Communications Person of the Year was awarded to Communications Officers Lauren Sullins and Daphne Vernold. On February 1, 2010, Lauren received a phone call from a female who was crying and stated that she had a gun and wanted to commit suicide. When Lauren asked the female for her location, she stated that she didn't know where she was located. For over an hour Lauren remained in contact with the female through dropped phone calls, long silences and many emotions eventually getting the female to reveal that she was in a restroom at Lake Lanier near Cumming. Not only did Lauren, remain in contact with the female, she also kept the female from harming herself or anyone else with the gun. With the assistance of Communications Officer Daphne Vernold, the female's subscriber information was obtained from the cell phone company and officers from Hall and Forsyth County were contacted. With Lauren's perseverance and determination to locate the female caller and with Daphne's assistance, the female was located and the situation was safely resolved.

The Public Safety Person of the Year was given to Detective Dennis Hennelly and Sergeant Edward Restrepo with the Gwinnett County Police (Criminal Investigations). Detective Hennelly and Sergeant Restrepo were the first police officers to respond to a fatal shooting of a 13 year old boy at a Lawrenceville apartment complex. Detectives and crime scene personnel located very little evidence at the crime scene; however, Detective Hennelly and Sergeant Restrepo were determined to pursue any and all leads. After deciding to focus their attention on residents of one particular unit in the apartment complex who had multiple run-ins with the law, the officers began to listen to hour after hour of jail phone calls whenever any of the friends or associates of that apartment unit were in custody. Through these phone calls, the officers learned of a very large drug dealing inside Gwinnett County and obtained a confession from the shooter. This was a case that could have easily gone unsolved had it not been for the persistence and tenacity of Detective Hennelly and Sergeant Restrepo. Both officers are to be commended for the work they did on this case and the outstanding work they do each and every day.

The Public Safety Unit of the Year Award was given to the Gwinnett County Sheriff Department's Sex Offender Registry. The Sex Offender Registry Unit consists of Lt. Jeremy Brown, Sergeant Michael Oakes, Corporal Sheila Thomas, and Deputy Bobby Chapman, and one civilian employee, Casey Duffield, who handles the majority of the administrative duties. These five employees of the Gwinnett County Sheriff Department are responsible for enforcing the Sex Offender Registry laws in Gwinnett County. Those assigned to this unit must become an expert at answering questions about the law, and be able to discuss it in laymen's terms with the public. In addition, the sex offender laws in Georgia are very complex and are constantly changing requiring the deputies to learn new procedures on a constant basis. Their hard work and dedication keeps the citizens of Gwinnett County safer and more informed than they otherwise would be from child predators and sexually violent offenders.

The Silver Medal of Valor, the second highest award for bravery and heroism, is awarded in situations when a public safety official/unit knowingly exposes himself/herself/themselves to great personal risk in the performance of an official act. The Silver Medal of Valor was awarded to Officer J. Bailey and Officer D. Mitchem with the Gwinnett County Police (South Precinct). On July 12, 2010, Officers Bailey and Mitchem responded to a residential fire on Stone Mountain Hwy. The officers arrived to the house that was consumed by heavy smoke and large flames before the Gwinnett County Fire Department. The homeowner advised the officers that her husband was still trapped inside the house and was unable to escape because he was disabled. The officers made the decision to enter the house to rescue the disabled and elderly man. After locating the elderly man sitting in a chair, the officers pulled him to safety. By the time the officers reached the porch, it was on fire and the victim had to be taken to the yard for safety. The officers made it out safely just at the roof started to collapse. Officer Bailey and Mitchem's valiant display of teamwork saved a man's life and are to be commended for their bravery, professionalism and willingness to go above the call of duty.

The Gold Medal of Valor, the highest award for bravery and heroism, is awarded in cases in which the public safety official/unit knowingly placed his/her/their life/lives in peril of death or serious bodily harm while saving or attempting to save the lives of others. The Gold Medal of Valor was awarded to Master Patrolman Bobby Johnson with the Duluth Police Department. On Saturday, November 20, 2010, officers were dispatched to a call of domestic dispute from a caller who heard yelling and glass breaking from a nearby residence. Several officers rushed to the scene, although nothing could have prepared them for what they saw next or the danger they were about to be in. As Officers Baker, Parrish and Johnson approached the house, they noticed thick smoke billowing from the windows and a distraught man holding a limp woman in his arms in the front lawn. The officers also saw two small children in the front yard, unharmed and unaware of the gravity of this situation. When the officers asked the man if there was anyone in the house, the husband frantically said his 10-month old boy was still inside. As the fire department had not yet arrived, the officers quickly sprung into action first approaching the front door which proved impassable which led them to the side of the house where Officers Baker and Johnson climbed on a very small ledge discovering the baby through a window. Officers Parrish and Baker were able to hold Officer Johnson up to the window to reach through the smoke and grab the baby. After rescuing the lifeless baby that Officer Johnson described as being hot to the touch and covered in soot, Officer Baker began giving the baby chest compressions and continued to do so in the ambulance that awaited them. Sadly, the baby lost his battle against the fire and smoke.

"Officers aren't expected to fight fires or pull people out of burning building. They don't have the equipment, training or experience to deal with it," said Duluth Police Department Lt. Jackie Hood who nominated Officer Johnson. "These officers went above and beyond the call of duty, without regard for their personal safety to save a small baby's life. For that, they make us proud. For that we call them heroes."

ALTANTA MAYOR KASIM REED TO ADDRESS NORTH METRO ATLANTA BUSINESSES

2011-02-28T09:32:00.002-05:00

Mayor Reed will discuss Regional Cooperation on Water and Transportation at March 2nd Gwinnett Chamber Luncheon

Duluth, GA- In a continued effort to support strategic collaboration for business growth from local to international, the Gwinnett Chamber, Presenting Sponsor Rocket IT, and several partners will host Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed at the March 2nd General Membership Meeting at Gwinnett Center. Mayor Reed will present "Regionalism in Motion", focusing on key issues, including water and transportation.

"As we continue to grow and develop our regional efforts with the ultimate goal of bringing high-wage jobs and a strong business community to Gwinnett and metro Atlanta, reaching across borders and working with leaders like Mayor Reed to find solutions to our most pressing issues is key to our future's success," said Jim Maran, president & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber.

Mayor Reed was inaugurated as the City of Atlanta's 59th Mayor on January 4, 2010. Since taking office, Mayor Reed has worked to improve public safety, create new opportunities for the City's youth, restore fiscal stability to the City and provide faster and more efficient customer service to residents. Prior to his election, Mayor Reed established a track record of leadership during his 11 years as a member of the Georgia General Assembly. He was first elected in 1998 as a state representative and served two terms. From 2002-2009, he served in the Georgia State Senate, where he was Vice Chairman of the Senate Democratic Caucus.

"A strong relationship between the City of Atlanta and successful communities like Gwinnett is vital to solving regional issues such as water and transportation," said Mayor Reed. "These strategic partnerships will help us create a stronger future for business and economic development in Atlanta, Gwinnett and throughout the metropolitan area."

Additional sponsors for the March 2nd General Membership Meeting include Media Sponsor Gwinnett Daily Post and Gold Sponsors Comcast and Gwinnett Center. Platinum, gold, silver, and supporting sponsorships are still available. The event is open to the public and the cost to attend is $45 for Chamber members and $55 for non-members. Tables of 10 are available for $450. Advanced registration is required online by visiting the calendar of events page at www.gwinnettchamber.org. For more details, contact Rachel Jeffers, program manager, Gwinnett Chamber, at 770-232-8816 or rachel@gwinnettchamber.org.

Put Your Best Foot Forward!

2011-01-28T16:52:00.002-05:00

Get Your Shoes Shined & Repaired at the Gwinnett Chamber

First impressions are critical in the business world. For this reason, the Gwinnett Chamber wants to help you put your best foot forward. Mr. Lawrence Hardnett is available for shoe shines at the Gwinnett Chamber on Mondays and Wednesdays from 1:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. and Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. In addition, drop offs for shoe shines and repairs may be made at the Chamber front desk during non-service hours.

Prices include:
$6 shine
$8 spit shine
$8 boot shine
$8.50 clean & shine golf shoes
$8 clean & shine two-tones (other than golf shoes)
$10 ladies heels
$17 rubber heels
$45 half sole & heels
$60 full sole & heels
$10 clean/shampoo suede shoes
$12 dye leather shoes

For additional services and prices contact Mr. Hardnett at 678-887-9162.

Gwinnett's State Delegation members provide statewide leadership

2011-01-12T18:41:00.002-05:00

News from Gwinnett Chamber Public Policy

Sen. Don Balfour chosen as chairman of the Rules Committee by Senate Committee on Assignments. He will also serve on Appropriations, Health and Human Services, Insurance, and Reapportionment.This will be Sen. Balfour's ninth year to serve as Rules Chairman and his 19th year as a state senator. He is the longest serving Republican in the State Senate.

Sen. Fran Millar has been appointed Chairman of the Senate Education Committeeby the Senate Committee on Assignments. Sen. Millar will also serve on the Health and Human Services, Government Oversight, Retirement, and Economic Development committees.

Join us in congratulating the following honorees at the 63rd Annual Dinner! And the winners are...

2011-01-06T15:08:00.002-05:00

Celebrating Gwinnett's Success
Become Part of One of the Most Talked About Events of the Year!

Friday, February 4, 2011
Cocktails at 6 p.m.
Dinner and Program at 7:30 p.m.
The Gwinnett Center, Tommy P. Hughes Ballroom
6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth 30097

Presented by Gwinnett Medical Center

This black-tie-optional spectacular is more than a celebration of Gwinnett Chamber stewardship for the county's success. It's an awe-inspiring sensation recognizing the accomplishments of 2010 and anticipating the wonders to come in 2011. Be a part of Gwinnett's finest who attend this event to celebrate the people of Gwinnett who have made significant contributions to enhance our quality of life.

In an effort to further recognize Gwinnett's outstanding citizens and organizations, the Gwinnett Chamber would like to announce the winners of the 63rd Annual Dinner Awards. These awards honor those who have made significant contributions to enhance our quality of life, make Gwinnett a better place to live, and improve education, medical and public service communities.

And the winners are...

Citizen of the Year
David Seago - Georgia Power

Public Service Award
Georgia State Senator Don Balfour

Dr. Robert McClure, M.D. - Dermatology and Dermatologic Surgery
Gwinnett County Board of Education, District IV Representative and 2010 Vice Chairman

Tammy Shumate - Corporate Development, Brand Mortgage

Rep Melvin Everson - Workforce Development Director for the State of Georgia
Former State Representative

Nancy A. Ward - Gwinnett County Public Schools, Staff Development
Executive Director Gwinnett Student Leadership Team, Inc.

Hudgens Award
Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation

R. Wayne Shackelford Legacy Award
Forrest L. Adair, II

Sponsorship & Ticket Opportunities:

Diamond Award Sponsor at $7,500 -Three available - one each for Public Service, Humanitarian and Citizen of the Year Awards

Recognition in Chamber FOCUS newsletter
Logo recognition in program
Company representative to welcome attendees at reception
ten (10) complimentary seats at the dinner
Thirty (30) complimentary drink tickets

Platinum Sponsors at $3,000 - Multiple available

Recognition in Chamber FOCUS newsletter
Logo recognition in program
Verbal recognition during event
Six (6) complimentary seats at the dinner

Gold Sponsors at $2,500 - Multiple available

Recognition in Chamber FOCUS newsletter
Logo recognition in program
Verbal recognition during event
Four (4) complimentary seats at the dinner

Silver Sponsors at $2,000 - Multiple available

Recognition in Chamber FOCUS newsletter
Logo recognition in program
Verbal recognition during event
Two (2) complimentary seats at the dinner

Individual Pricing

Individual Seats - $150 per person
Table(s) of 10 - $1,500 per table

Full table requests receive preferential seating. Less than full tables will be assigned as received. Tickets will be assigned upon receipt of remittance and mailed the week of the event. Register online at www.gwinnettannualdinner.com. Reservations due by 1/28/11 (no refunds after this date).

For more information please contact Rachel at 770-232-8816 or rachel@gwinnettchamber.org, or visit www.gwinnettannualdinner.com.

Governor-elect Nathan Deal Shares His Vision for Georgia

2010-12-16T12:50:00.003-05:00

Newly elected leader addresses over 700 Georgians at Gwinnett Chamber event

Click here to view the video news release

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber, metro Atlanta, and the state of Georgia recently welcomed Governor-elect Nathan Deal to the Georgia Leadership Luncheon Presented by Rocket IT. The first-of-its-kind event was created in an effort to showcase the strategic collaboration between local, regional and statewide entities. Over 700 business and community leaders who were in attendance got the chance to hear Governor-elect Deal's vision and plan for the state of Georgia in 2011 and get an update on the state's efforts in education and workforce development, infrastructure, and small business growth and economic development. The Governor-elect also gave insight on his plans to improve the overall quality of life for Georgia citizens.

"Support from local communities, such as Gwinnett County, is what makes this state a strong and vibrant option for business growth and overall quality of life," said Governor-elect Nathan Deal. "It is through this unified mindset that Georgia will be able to come out of the recession and once again maintain the stability, strength and rapid growth it has witnessed before."

This luncheon marked the beginning of a strong relationship with the governor-elect to support statewide legislative priorities through the Chamber's 2011 public policy initiatives including job creation, education, water and transportation.

"Collaboration at the local, regional and state level is essential in order to grow job opportunities and create wealth in Gwinnett and the state of Georgia," said Jim Maran, president & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber. "This luncheon presented a wonderful opportunity to join forces with Governor-elect Nathan Deal and our statewide partners to achieve the goal that we all share which is the economic success of our state."

As a follow-up to the Georgia Leadership Luncheon, the Gwinnett Chamber along with several statewide partners will present the Georgia Leadership Welcome Reception featuring the new Department of Economic Development Commissioner Chris Cummiskey on January 18. The Reception will be held at The 1818 Club from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sponsorship opportunities are available and reservations can be made online at www.gwinnettchamber.org/glwr. The reception will be followed by Gwinnett Day at the Capitol February 23 and the Public Policy Summit in May.

Additional sponsors for the Georgia Leadership Luncheon included Platinum Sponsor Cisco; Gold Sponsors Gwinnett Center, Merrill Lynch- David Cross, and Verizon Wireless; Silver Sponsors Allgood Pest Solutions, Atlanta Gas Light, Enterprise Rent A Car, Gas South, Georgia Gwinnett College, Georgia Power, Russell Landscape Group, Inc.; and Media Sponsor Gwinnett Daily Post.

For more information on the Gwinnett Chamber's Government Relations efforts, visit www.gwinnettgovernmentrelations.com

http://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-politics-elections/deal-state-government-workforce-778417.html

http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2010-12-15/gov-elect-deal-ga-government-must-be-downsized.html

http://www.myfoxatlanta.com/dpp/news/deal-layoffs-coming-in-state-government-121510

Help Gwinnett Become a Certified Work Ready Community

2010-11-18T09:32:00.003-05:00

Earn Your Work Ready Certificate on Nov. 18 and 19 at the Gwinnett Chamber

What will you get in return? Employees and job seekers strengthen their resume. Employers boost their bottom line. Gwinnett becomes known as the best workforce in Georgia.

As part of Georgia's Work Ready initiative, if 800 private sector employees or job seekers pass a simple assessment by Dec. 31, Gwinnett will become known as a Certified Work Ready Community, a designation showing we have the talented workforce that business demands and the means to drive economic growth and prosperity. Do your part to assure Gwinnett's quality of life by attracting high paying jobs for our workforce by obtaining a Work Ready Certificate and allowing your employees to do the same.

For your convenience, a Workforce Bus will be at the Gwinnett Chamber Thursday, November 18 and Friday, November 19 with computer stations available for you and your employees to take the Work Ready Assessments. Each assessment takes 45 minutes to complete and can be taken individually or at the same time. There is no charge to take the assessments and all results are confidential, known only by the assessment-taker. Stations will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

In addition, the assessments are available at Gwinnett Technical College anytime. To schedule an assessment to obtain your Work Ready Certification, please go to www.gwinnetttech.edu; click on Quick Links, which is about two-thirds down the page on the right; scroll down to the last option and click on Work Ready Registration; complete the information on that page and select the day that you would like to take the test and click on submit.

For more information, visit www.gaworkready.org. For more information on Gwinnett's effort to become a Certified Work Ready Community, contact Gail Macrenaris at 770-232-8803 or gail@gwinnettchamber.org.

Become Georgia Work Ready...and Open the Door to New Opportunities!

GOVERNOR-ELECT NATHAN DEAL TO ADDRESS FIRST-EVER GWINNETT CHAMBER GEORGIA LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON

2010-11-17T11:15:00.002-05:00

Governor-elect Deal to Give State's Outlook at December 15 Meeting

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will host Governor-elect Nathan Deal at its first-ever Georgia Leadership Luncheon Presented by Rocket IT on December 15 at 11:30 a.m. at the Gwinnett Center. Attendees will have the chance to hear the Governor-elect's vision and plan for the state of Georgia in 2011 and get an update on the state's efforts in education and workforce development, infrastructure, and small business growth and economic development. The Governor-elect will also begin laying out his plans to improve the overall quality of life for Georgia citizens.

"Gwinnett County continues to lead metro Atlanta and Georgia in the areas of infrastructure development, quality of life and economic development, through our strong partnership with the State. I look forward to Governor-elect Deal's outlook as he leads Georgia to a strong recovery in 2011," said Jim Maran, president and CEO, Gwinnett Chamber.

Born in Millen, Georgia, Governor-elect Nathan Deal obtained his B.A. from Mercer University and his J.D. from the Mercer School of Law in 1966. After serving two years in the United States Army, Deal settled into private practice, later serving as the assistant district attorney and a juvenile court judge. In 1981, Deal was elected to the Georgia State Senate, where he served for 12 years before being elected as a Democrat to the United States Congress. Deal changed his party affiliation in 1995 and served until his resignation in March 2010. Deal was elected Governor of the state of Georgia on November 2, 2010.

"As we slowly emerge from a devastating recession, the state of Georgia and Gwinnett County are in a transitional time that, for the first time in a while, looks more promising and hopeful," said Maran. "We look forward to working with Governor-elect Deal as we continue to carry out our public policy goals to improve upon the business climate and quality of life by growing job opportunities for the citizens of Gwinnett and the state of Georgia."

Additional sponsors for the Georgia Leadership Luncheon include Media Sponsor Gwinnett Daily Post and Gold Sponsor Merrill Lynch- David Cross. Platinum, gold, silver, and supporting sponsorships are still available. The event is open to the public and the cost to attend is $55 for Chamber members and $65 for non-members. Tables of 10 are available for $500. Advanced registration is required online by visiting the calendar of events page at www.gwinnettchamber.org. For more details, contact Abby Wilkerson, program manager, Gwinnett Chamber, at 770-232-2266 or abby@gwinnettchamber.org.

GWINNETT CHAMBER AND GWINNETT COUNTY GOVERNMENT CARRY OUT ENGAGE GWINNETT RECOMMENDATION BY HOLDING FIRST TECHNOLOGY TASK FORCE MEETING

2010-11-01T15:51:00.002-04:00

Excellence Through Innovation Task Force Explores Technology Advancements and Efficiencies to Take Gwinnett County Government to the Next Level

(Duluth, GA., Oct. 28, 2010) – One of the many findings released from Engage Gwinnett's 42-member citizens committee on the future of Gwinnett County in April 2010 was that technological improvement represents the best approach for allowing more to be done with less staff throughout Gwinnett County. As a direct result of this recommendation, the Gwinnett Chamber - in partnership with Gwinnett County - is pleased to announce that the Excellence Through Innovation Task Force held their first official meeting on October 21.

Excellence Through Innovation Task Force Co-Chair and President of Atlanta Education Fund Bill McCargo said that the mission of the Task Force is to identify and recommend approaches that will create additional governmental efficiencies. "This initiative is about taking our county government to the next level and achieving a standard of excellence that we know is within our reach."

In the coming months the Task Force, led by Co-Chairs Bill McCargo and Canvas Systems Founder Sean Murphy, will explore the many recommendations made by the Engage Gwinnett volunteer committee to increase effectiveness, efficiency and innovation through technological improvements. The public-private partnership also includes Task Force members Rick Allen, Gwinnett Medical Center; Sylvia Black, Gwinnett County Sheriff's Department; Phil Boudewyns, Gwinnett County Courts; Scott Futrell, Gwinnett County Public Schools; Michael Gerster, WIKA; Marian Lucia, retired from Freddy Mac, John Matelski, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners; Doug Meyer, Sage Software; Jann Moore, Gwinnett Chamber; Cindy Price, AT&T; Richard Steele, Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner's Office; Greg Talsky, Cisco; and Phil Ventimiglia, NCR. The Engage Gwinnett public involvement initiative is a partnership between Gwinnett County government and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. The volunteer committee was formed in the fall of 2009 to study desired public services, revenues, and spending levels for the next five years.

"Through findings uncovered during the intense study conducted by the Engage Gwinnett volunteers, the Excellence Through Innovation Task Force has the opportunity to facilitate in the integration of new technologies that will not only help to make Gwinnett County more efficient, but also help to better serve its customers which are the citizens of Gwinnett County," said Murphy. "It is exciting to see the Engage Gwinnett recommendations come to life. Through the volunteer's specific recommendations to continue with technological improvements, Gwinnett County citizens can expect to see a more efficient government that is a model of excellence and innovation in the use of technology."

Gwinnett County Chief Information Officer and Director of Information Technology Services John Matelski, who will help guide the Task Force through the inner workings of the county's government, said that the Task Force will offer the opportunity to reflect on what they are doing well as a government. "The Task Force will help to identify what we should build on for the future and what we can do better in our technology and business operations."

More information about Engage Gwinnett can be found at www.engagegwinnett.com.

Gwinnett County Public Schools Named Nation's Top School System!

2010-10-19T17:00:00.002-04:00

Congratulations to Gwinnett County Public Schools and Superintendent Alvin Wilbanks for winning the nation's top education honor and largest education award in the country, the 2010 Broad Prize for Urban Education!

Broad officials chose Gwinnett County Public Schools as the nation's top urban school system based on student performance over a three-year period. Gwinnett was noted for achieving significant gains between 2005 and 2009.

Among them:

The average SAT score of 1526 in 2009 topped state and national averages.
Between 2006 and 2009 SAT participation for African-Americans rose by 9 percentage points.
Twelve Gwinnett high schools were named Advanced Placement (AP) Honor Schools for performance on exams that prepare students for the rigors of college.

In addition to Supt. Wilbanks unparalleled leadership, the Gwinnett Chamber would especially like to recognize the Gwinnett County Public School System's Board of Education (2010 Chair Dr. Mary Kay Murphy, District III; Vice Chair Dr. Robert McClure, District IV; Carole Boyce, District I; Louise Radloff, District V; and Daniel D. Seckinger, District II), as well as the entire administration, principals, and teachers that achieved such phenomenal success.

Jim Maran
President & CEO
Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

Finally – a chance to wear those old bridesmaids dresses!

2010-10-19T15:38:00.001-04:00

California Dreaming to Host Rally for the Cure Event

California Dreaming will host a Rally for the Cure® 27 Dresses Style Party on October 22 at 7:00 pm at their location on Old Peachtree Road.

The evening's festivities will include a complimentary appetizer buffet with California Dreaming favorites, pink martinis, photographers, and prizes – not to mention the opportunity to wear that old bridesmaid's dress one more time! Guests will receive a goody bag filled with rally items, breast health information and subscriptions to Condé Nast magazines such as SELF, Golf Digest and Bon Appétit.

Rally for the Cure is a grassroots program to spread awareness about breast health and breast cancer in support of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® through volunteer organized golf, tennis and social events. More than 1.65 million people have participated in Rally for the Cure events across the nation since its inception in 1996. This year marks the premier year California Dreaming has rallied against breast cancer.

"The success of Rally is attributed to volunteer ambassadors like, Meghan Anderson, who have said 'Yes we can have a Rally at our restaurant. It is their enthusiasm, energy and support we value in our commitment to support Susan G. Komen," says Diane Perillo, Program Manager, Rally for the Cure.

Since 1996 Komen has received over $50 million from Rally events to support their mission. Rally for the Cure® is based in Wilton, Connecticut. For further information about the California Dreaming Rally event, contact Meghan Anderson, 770-813-9240 or to host a Rally event of your own call 800.327.6811 or visit the website: www.rallyforthecure.com.

He runs a hard-nosed defense, conservative offense, and there isn’t a weed to be found in his yard

2010-10-07T11:38:00.001-04:00

Gwinnett Tech to Host Vince Dooley Book Signing and Workshops at Fall Plant Sale

Gardening enthusiasts and Bulldog fans alike will want to flock to Gwinnett Technical College on Friday, October 15. The college is hosting several gardening and horticulture events that day including:

Vince Dooley Book Signing – Avid gardener and former University of Georgia football coach Vince Dooley will be signing and discussing his new book, Vince Dooley's Garden: A Horticultural Journey of a Football Coach at 10:00 a.m. Signing is free and books will be for sale.

Planting Workshops – The Continuing Education Division will host two gardening workshops immediately following Dooley's presentation. The workshops – Kitchen Gardens–Vegetables in the Landscape and Flower Show Blue Ribbons Made Easy – will be held at 12:30 and 1:30 p.m., respectively. The registration fee for the workshops is $10 per session.

Fall Plant Sale – The Environmental Horticulture program will host its annual Fall Plant Sale from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Gwinnett Tech Greenhouse, adjacent to Building 600.

Those interested in attending the book signing for Dooley or the gardening classes must register by visiting www.GwinnettTech.edu/ce and selecting the Hobbies and Personal Enrichment class schedule, or by calling 770-995-9697.

Dooley's engagement will be the auditorium of The Busbee Center, Building 700, on the Gwinnett Tech campus, at 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville, GA 30043. Please use the north entrance to campus.

Gwinnett Student Leadership Team, Inc.: Creating a Legacy of Success

2010-10-04T11:26:00.002-04:00

It seems as if every graduate of the Gwinnett Student Leadership Team, Inc. (GSLT) has a success story to tell. This should come as no surprise to anyone who is familiar with the caliber of students selected to take part in the two-year student leadership program for high school juniors and seniors in Gwinnett County Public Schools and Buford City Schools.

Story after story tells of students like Catalina Colvin Kreider, a 2006 graduate of Dacula High School and a 2010 graduate of the University of Georgia, who is now a first-year teacher at Jones Middle School. Kreider's leadership skills are so developed that her principal tapped her to teach the student leadership academy at Jones. There are other stories like that of Collin Jones who graduated from North Gwinnett High School and is currently attending Harvard University. Jones, a religion major and psychology minor, juggles maintaining a 3.79 GPA, conducting tours for the Harvard Tour Company, and interning at an orphanage in the Dominican Republic.

Additionally, both Kreider and Jones are the only two former GSLT students who have been invited by GSLT Executive Director Nancy Ward to teach alongside renowned leadership gurus from across the nation at the GSLT Summit attended by over 800 students and adults.

The success stories continue with Norcross High School and University of Pennsylvania graduate Lindsay Eierman. With a passion for women's rights, Eierman currently works as an innovation associate for the social enterprise, Source for Change, in India. The rural business process outsourcing organization trains women in technology and employs them for outsourcing services such as data entry and image editing. As the innovation associate, Eierman will work to investigate how and where to replicate their business model.

As a Robertson Scholar at UNC Chapel Hill, Grayson High School graduate Jeremy Knight spent his first summer internship teaching and exploring leadership principles with middle school students. Knight's work does not end with his summer internship, as he is as a counselor for Carolina Kickoff, a summer camp for 150 incoming freshman and a committee chair for the First-Year Focus Council, a committee on the Executive Branch of Student Government.

And then there is Ariel Ford, a 2009 graduate of Peachtree Ridge High School and a sophomore at the University of Florida where she is on a full four-year Gates Millennium Scholarship that will also cover graduate school. During her freshman year, Ford was one of 50 students chosen out of 500 applicants to serve on the Freshman Leadership Council at the University of Florida.

Football fans may be interested in knowing about Drew Butler who is a punter in his junior year for the Georgia Bulldogs. Butler, the son of Kevin and Kathy Butler, led the nation in punting average for the 2009 NCAA Division I FBS football season. He is also the winner of the 2009 College Football Performance Awards Punter Trophy and the 2009 Ray Guy Award. As well as excelling on the football field, Butler also excels in the classroom making the 2009 Dean's List, the 2008 SEC Academic Roll, and the 2008 Athletic Director's Roll.

Whether breaking records on the football field, teaching future leaders, attending acclaimed universities, fighting for women's rights, volunteering at orphanages in third-world countries, each person's story has a common denominator – they attribute their success to GSLT.

Jeremy Knight credits his ability to receive a scholarship to his involvement with GSLT. "I know that without GSLT, I would not have been awarded the scholarship, which has been life-changing for me."

Like Knight, Ariel Ford gives credit to GSLT for helping her to win a spot on the Freshman Leadership Council at the University of Florida. "Without GLST, I would have never been able to make this council. The competition was stiff, but GSLT truly allowed me to be a stand-out leader."

These stories serve as a reminder that as an investor in GSLT and thus Gwinnett's future leaders, the Gwinnett Chamber is helping to create a legacy of success and leadership for Gwinnett County and beyond. For more information on how you can support and get involved with the Gwinnett Student Leadership Team, contact Gail Macrenaris, director of leadership and education, Gwinnett Chamber at 770-232-8803 or gail@gwinnettchamber.org.

IT’S GWINNETT CHAMBER NIGHT AT THE GLADIATORS GAME!

2010-10-04T09:55:00.002-04:00

Help Celebrate the Start of their 8^th Season in Gwinnett!
GLADIATORS vs. FLORIDA – Saturday, October 23 – 7:05 p.m.

Group Benefits:

Great seats, Great Arena. Best available seats at a discount off the gate price in the top minor league arena in the country as voted by minorleaguenews.com.
Cheer together. Sit together and have fun together in block seating.
Your name in lights. Your group's name will be on the Arena video board and we'll make an in-arena PA announcement during the game welcoming your group.
Someone in your group will win! There will be a prize raffle for all attendees in your group.
Get a deal on Gladiators gear. Each of your group's attendees will get a 10% discount on a merchandise purchase when they attend the game.

Group Tickets: $13 (normal game day walk-up of $18)
Group Name: Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce
Group Contact: Vince DaSilva
Gladiators Contact: Jim Hall: (770) 497-5109
jhall@gwinnettgladiators.com
Copy and Paste this link to order your Tickets:
http://www.gwinnettgladiators.com/shop/dboffers.asp?code=CHAM1023

The Young Professionals of hYPe hit a homerun with their Two Year Anniversary

2010-08-17T12:15:00.002-04:00

With all the success that Gwinnett's young professionals have achieved since the inception of hYPe two years ago, one could say that the organization was a homerun for its members and the community. hYPe members celebrated their two-year anniversary on June 18th with hot dogs and cold beverages during a tailgate before a Gwinnett Braves baseball game. The 1,000-member strong organization had reason to celebrate with all that they accomplished in just two years, including holding 40 events, a Web site re-design, the launch of a Facebook page and Twitter account, partnering with multiple non-profit organizations, and developing three "work crews" to promote social networking, career development, and community involvement within the organization.

Abby Wilkerson who works for redpepper and leads hYPe's event management work crew, commented on a defining event that let her know hYPe was on the right track.

"I'm extremely proud that the hYPe leadership team was asked to sit on a panel during the lunch session of the Partnership Gwinnett Summit," said Wilkerson. "To be asked to speak in front of that crowd gave us some credibility and made me feel like we had created something legitimate. Almost like the first time you realize that the adults are taking you seriously."

First recommended in the Partnership Gwinnett Community and Economic Development Strategy, hYPe was developed to establish and cultivate young talent within the community and to build Gwinnett's next generation of community and business leaders. The main goals identified for the organization were to offer members the opportunity to interact on an informal level with business and community leaders; provide opportunity for networking with others of like interest and age on the weekends and weeknights; seek out areas for community involvement; and expose the young professionals in metro Atlanta to the hottest hangouts and cultural-rich attractions in Gwinnett.

With a goal in mind, hYPe's high impact, savvy group of diverse young professionals (ages 21-39) have worked diligently to showcase Gwinnett as a unique, fun, and cool place to work and live by holding events, recruiting new members and supporting the community.

hYPe events
The hYPe Event Management work crew, led by redpepper's Abby Wilkerson, worked hard this year locating venues, planning, volunteering their time and spreading the news about hYPe events. The Event Management work crew successfully held numerous events, with an average attendance of 150 people, throughout Gwinnett, including:

hYPe Quarterly event "Games & Gifts" at Dave & Buster's- August 2009
Not a Holiday 'Party' Party at The 1818 Club – December 2009
Thursday Schmooze Day held at Marlow's Tavern every first Thursday of each month
hYPe Two Year Anniversary with the Gwinnett Braves- June 2010

Membership Recruitment
During their first year, hYPe experienced unprecedented growth starting with just 90 members at the Encore Launch event in May 2008 to now over 650 members. Along with enrolling new members, the Membership Recruitment work team, led by Jared Burrell with Grimes Insurance and Financial Services Inc., was also responsible for career development. Thanks to the dedicated members of the membership recruitment work crew hYPe was able to achieve the following:

Held lunch and learns with a presentation on being "Healthy Young Professionals in June 2009 and "How to be an excellent Networker" in July 2009
Conducted college recruitment at Georgia Gwinnett College
Hosted booth at Gwinnett Technical College's "Graduates Networking Session"
Recruited over 300 members in one year
Held "Finding a Job in a Down Economy & Positioning for a Promotion" seminar on March 30th featuring Bill Mahoney from Career Builder

Community Involvement
Along with social networking and professional development, hYPe members also wanted to give back to the community. Thanks to the Community Involvement work crew, led by Trinity Hundredmark with Andersen, Tate & Carr, P.C., many lives were touched by the efforts of hYPe members to give back to community. For each event held, hYPe partnered with a local charity and requested that attendees provide a donation to the specific non-profit. The following charity drives were held at various hYPe events:

In December 2009 members participated in a toy drive for the Gwinnett Children's Shelter which helped give hundreds of presents to children in need
Partnered with Habitat for Humanity and Clark Howard to build homes for those in need
Donated books, paper, pencils, binders, etc to the Lilburn Co-Op at the August 2009 quarterly event
Presented hundreds of canned foods and items to the Lilburn Co-Op on November 3rd 2009
Volunteered at the SNS Golf Tournament in May 2010
Formed team with Gwinnett Chamber Board Members for the Great Days of Services and picked up trash on Highway-316

"hYPe is not only a great way to meet new people, but it's also a great way to get involved in the local community," said Trinity Hundredmark, who works for Andersen, Tate, & Carr and leads hYPe's community involvement work crew. "Most young professionals are coming from college or graduate school where getting involved was easy and sometimes even mandatory. In the real world, getting involved and giving back to the community can be overwhelming at first. Where does one start? hYPe has helped me to find answers to those questions. By always keeping me informed of the latest activities going on in Gwinnett County, I can always find a way to get involved and meet new people."

For more information on hYPe, visit www.hypegwinnett.com.

AN INTERVIEW WITH… Peter Andruszkiewicz, President of Kaiser Permanente Georgia

2010-08-16T16:43:00.002-04:00

Kaiser Permanente is Georgia's largest not-for-profit health plan. With approximately 230,000 members in metro Atlanta and 8.6 million nationwide, Kaiser Permanente is recognized as one of America's leading health care providers. And its mission is clear: Provide high-quality, affordable health care to improve the health of its members and the communities it serves.

Guided by expert teams of physicians, specialists and health care providers with The Southeast Permanente Medical Group, Kaiser Permanente provides care focused on its members' total health and supported by industry-leading technology and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, as well as state-of-the art delivery. Providing a superior member experience is at the core of the organization's values.

At the helm of Kaiser Permanente Georgia is President Peter Andruszkiewicz. A seasoned health care executive, Andruszkiewicz spent 18 years at CIGNA HealthCare before joining Kaiser Permanente in 2005 as vice president, National Accounts. In 2006, he became senior vice president, Health Plan Operations for regions outside California. He was named President of Kaiser Permanente Georgia in late 2008.

In the local community, Andruszkiewicz serves as chair of the Henry W. Grady Health System Foundation board. He also sits on the boards of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, the Woodruff Arts Center, and the Metro Atlanta YMCA. He is a member of the Board of Councilors of The Carter Center and a member of the Buckhead Coalition. He is a graduate of Springfield College in Massachusetts and serves on its board of trustees.

Healthcare is one of five targeted industries in Partnership Gwinnett, the community and economic development initiative led by the Gwinnett Chamber to bring jobs and investment to the Greater Atlanta region. Andruszkiewicz shares Kaiser Permanente's expansion plans in metro Atlanta, which include new medical facilities as well as community involvement initiatives in Gwinnett.

Creating Jobs & Wealth

Q. Kaiser Permanente recently opened a new medical office in Lawrenceville, which was the third office to open this year in the metro Atlanta area. What are some of the factors that have led to these recent expansions in Gwinnett and metro Atlanta?

Our strategy is to provide members with more convenient access to Kaiser Permanente's high quality, coordinated health care system. By locating our new medical offices throughout metro Atlanta all of our members will be within a 20-minute drive of one of our facilities. Since announcing our expansion plans last year, we have opened four new medical offices, bringing our total to 23. Three additional medical offices are scheduled to open in the fall, including our fourth location in Gwinnett County in Snellville. We will add even more new facilities in 2011 as we continue to expand.

Growing Your Business

Q. Partnership Gwinnett research indicated that Gwinnett has significant potential for growth in the healthcare industry. How has Gwinnett's pro-business environment for healthcare businesses helped Kaiser Permanente expand in the local market?

Gwinnett is a thriving area. With an increasing number of our members living and working in Gwinnett, Kaiser Permanente wants to have a strong presence in the community. The tremendous support we have received from across the county has enabled us to expand and provide our members with convenient, high-quality coordinated care in difficult economic times.

Strengthening the Community

Q. As an investor in Partnership Gwinnett, why did Kaiser Permanente choose to support this community and economic development initiative? What are some of the other ways that Kaiser Permanente is involved in the local community?

We want to be a part of the community and we know that what is good for Gwinnett County is also good for Kaiser Permanente. Partnership Gwinnett is a great opportunity to provide support where we know it will have significant impact. We're also proud to sponsor the Gwinnett Chamber Chairman's Club Golf Tournament and the Lawrenceville Music Concert Series.

Kaiser Permanente is Georgia's largest non-profit health plan and one of our core values has always been to improve the health of communities, as well as the health of our members. For 25 years, we have invested millions of dollars back into communities as a part of our Community Benefit program. We partner with local non-profits, universities and local health departments to improve access to health care, train medical professionals and develop programs that promote healthy living. We work to address the root causes of poor health, and provide services to support healthier lifestyles, especially to under -served communities. This year we are investing nearly $30 million dollars in the community.

As part of our community benefit program, over the last two years, we've donated more than $260,000 to Gwinnett County organizations including Lawrenceville Cooperative Ministry, AID Gwinnett, the Hope Clinic, the Visiting Nurse Health System, and others.

Celebrate Success at the 2010 Chamber Challenge

2010-08-16T16:21:00.002-04:00

The game of golf is a valuable business tool, not only because of the relationships formed and deals made on the course, but because of the many lessons that can be learned and applied to the business world.

As successful business and community leaders and golfers, the first place team at the 2009 Chamber Challenge, Georgia Gwinnett College President Dr. Daniel J. Kaufman, Vice President of Business and Finance Eddie Beauchamp, and Vice President of Institutional Advancement Dr. Gordon Harrison and Gwinnett Medical Center President Philip R. Wolfe share their tips on how to succeed on the golf course and in business.

According to Philip Wolfe, talented people will lead to success. "Whether it's a golf team or a business team, surround yourself with great talent."

Teamwork, talent, dedication, and attention to detail. These principles, according to Dr. Kaufman, facilitate success in business just as they do in golf.

"Avoid the bunkers, stay on the fairway, and learn from your mistakes." According to Eddie Beauchamp, concentrating on these three areas will help you to be successful on and off the course.

Dr. Gordon Harrison says that having team spirit gives the momentum you need to get ahead. "Golf is a great sport for bringing friends and business acquaintances together," said Harrison. "When you are bringing a team together, whether it is for golf or business, being encouraging and motivating can give you the competitive edge you need to win."

Gordon also added that the Chamber Challenge provides the perfect setting for building relationships and perfecting business skills. "It is always exciting and fun to be with the leadership of Gwinnett at this event each year. We are very appreciative of the Chamber's leadership in staging the Chamber Challenge."

The 2010 Chamber Challenge, held at Chateau Élan on October 12, offers the chance to promote your company while enjoying a relaxing day of golf on the fairways of a championship golf course. If golf isn't your game, you can participate in a heart-thumping tennis match and for those looking for a more relaxed setting, you may choose to dine on some down-home barbeque or sample award-winning wines. At the Chamber Challenge, the possibilities are endless when it comes to building strategic business relationships, turning your entrepreneurial dreams into a reality or just enjoying a picturesque day with your fellow colleagues and peers.

The Chamber Challenge is the perfect venue to build relationships with Gwinnett's top business leaders in a spectacular setting ideal for fostering business partnerships. We invite you to join us at the Chamber Challenge as we celebrate Gwinnett's business success while gaining valuable business advice and contacts.

Activities include:
Golf Extravaganza. Tournaments will be offered on all two of Chateau Élan's courses – Woodlands & Legends. Cost is $190/Legends Course and $170/ Woodlands Course per golfer—includes box lunch, drinks during the tournament, and BBQ dinner following event. Shotgun start at 11 a.m. Range opens at 10 a.m.

Tennis Tournament. A great mixed doubles Round Robin will allow for some fun competition among friends at the Chateau Élan Tennis Center. Warm up at noon and the tournament begins at 12:30 p.m. Cost is $80 per tennis player – includes tournament, box lunch, drinks during event and BBQ dinner following event.

Winery Tours. Enjoy touring the beautiful Chateau Élan winery and tasting their fine wines. Tour and tasting of the winery will start at 2:30 p.m. Cost is $40 per person – includes BBQ dinner following event.

Barbecue Mixer. At the end of the day enjoy dinner and networking at the Pavilion and cheer on tournament winners at the awards ceremony. The mixer will run approximately from 4:30 p.m. until 7:30 p.m. Cost is $30 per person – includes BBQ dinner and drinks.

Members who would like to learn more about the Chamber Challenge should contact Alicia Krogh at 770-232-8809 or alicia@gwinnettchamber.org.

AN INTERVIEW WITH…Derek Schwerzler, Stephen Gould Corporation

2010-08-06T14:27:00.003-04:00

Stephen Gould Corporation was founded in 1939 on the philosophical ideals and business visions of Stephen Gould and David Golden. They set out to create a corporate environment that would recognize the preeminent role of the customer within the processes of manufacturing and supply structure. Since this time Stephen Gould Corporation has grown to be a half billion dollar business with over 60 locations worldwide, still privately held by the same family. Stephen Gould has been designing and manufacturing a wide variety of packaging and custom kitting solutions for over half a century. They have long been recognized for consulting and implementing various systems of tool control, specialized packaging, distribution and integrated supply throughout the government and private sector.

Stephen Gould is GSA approved and serves a variety of industries from aerospace to retail. Many of our facilities are ISO-9001 certified and our Duluth location is a green facility. Stephen Gould is an industry leader and has won an award for their custom tool kitting solutions for Northrup Grumman.

Derek Schwerzler, who is a Gwinnett Chamber board member and co-chair for the 2010 Membership and Sponsorship Campaign, joined Stephen Gould 10 years ago after graduating from the University of Georgia. He chose Gwinnett County not only as a place to work, but a place to raise his family. His wife Shelly and their son make Duluth their home. Many of Derek's customers are also local Gwinnett businesses.

Derek initially joined the Chamber because he wanted to become more involved with his community and wanted to learn more about the county that he calls home. As it turned out for Derek, the Chamber has turned out to be so much more.

"My business has grown significantly through the business relationships and friendships I've made through the Chamber. Being involved with the Chamber has opened a referral stream I never thought possible," said Derek.

Involvement in the Chamber has also allowed Derek the opportunity to give back to the community in a variety of ways. He currently serves on the Chamber board, the Manufacturing and Logistics Council, the Gwinnett Student Leadership board, and The Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful board. Derek is also very involved with Partnership Gwinnett and a recent graduate of Leadership Gwinnett. And lastly, Derek is serving his community as a Rotarian and serves as President of the Rotary Club of Gwinnett Mosaic.

Creating Jobs & Wealth

Q. As the 2010 Co-Chair of the Chamber's Membership and Sponsorship volunteer-led Campaign, why is it beneficial for business executives to support the Chamber's mission of creating jobs and wealth through the campaign?

The campaign is a way for members of the Chamber to come together and support each other as well as the growth and strength of the Chamber. Through the campaign new members and potential members can see the power of our membership, the quality of referrals and the vast number of educational opportunities offered by the Chamber.

New businesses joining the Chamber are introduced to a multitude of opportunities to help their businesses grow and gain exposure not only in Gwinnett, but worldwide. Members have the opportunity to showcase their products and services through sponsorships, weekly networking events, ads and speaking engagements at Network Gwinnett. The funds raised through our membership campaign have allowed us to offer exceptional educational opportunities to all members.

Growing Your Business
Q. As a business executive, you have been very involved with the Chamber as a Chairman's Club member and have been actively involved in the Chamber's Membership and Sponsorship Campaign and many other chamber programs and events. How has being involved with these programs helped to grow your business?

The Gwinnett Chamber and specifically, the Chairman's Club, has given me the opportunity to speak with leaders in the community who have acted not only as mentors, but have been great referral sources, business partners and friends. Sponsoring events has allowed me to showcase my products and services, raise awareness of Stephen Gould Corporation and support the growth of the Chamber and the community. Through the Chamber, opportunities that would have never come my way with regard to business now occur on a daily basis.

Strengthening the Community

Q. Volunteers who join or start a team with the Campaign will have the satisfaction of knowing they are helping to strengthen the community by providing funds to sustain programs for business development, community improvement and member services. What are some of the other benefits of getting involved with the Campaign?

Being a part of the campaign has allowed me to network with likeminded professionals. It has allowed me to grow professionally as a leader. It has allowed me to build long term relationships and it has nurtured my competitive spirit. The Campaign Reward Sessions in particular are a great opportunity to get to know leaders in the community, learn more about the Chamber and its work, to improve the Gwinnett region, and to have fun! The opportunity to win a trip to Aruba is also a wonderful incentive. I would like to invite all Chamber members to join us in our efforts to help the Gwinnett Chamber become even stronger and more vital for the future.

For more information on Stephen Gould Corporation, contact Derek at 770-364-6202. Visit their Web site at www.stephengould.com; for industrial visit www.gouldsouthern.com.

Schools’ Success Equals Jobs Success

2010-08-06T11:27:00.002-04:00

By: Jim Maran, President & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber

Last year, Gwinnett was the only community in the nation to successfully recruit two Fortune 500 Global Corporate Headquarters in less than 12 months. At the same time Gwinnett was receiving these global business accolades, Gwinnett County Public Schools was named a finalist for the 2009 Broad Prize for Urban Education, marking it as one of the nation's top five districts in improving student achievement for all students (and they're a finalist again this year).

I share this because it demonstrates a direct correlation between the success of business and job creation and the quality of students as they transition from K-12 education to postsecondary pathways and finally enter the workforce. It's also important to note this success does not happen by accident. For years, the Gwinnett Chamber has partnered in numerous ways with our education partners to provide ongoing two-way dialogue so that our teachers, principals and administrators know exactly what our employers need in terms of skills from their future workforce.

In numerous ways, Gwinnett County is the forerunner of what many would call tomorrow's prototypical successful U.S. community. We are home to top Fortune 500 global headquarters and have added more than 7,500 high-wage jobs and more than 130 major relocations and expansions in less than three years, precisely during the time the entire world has suffered from the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Gwinnett is now home to one out of every six foreign-based businesses in Georgia, boasts economic development offices in China, and is the only U.S. Chamber to host a staffed office for the South Korean Small and Medium Business Corporation. We are a leader in technology, life science, and green energy clusters. And our entrepreneurial success stories include some of the biggest brands in the country.

This is exactly the business environment we must prepare our children for to ensure their future success in the workforce. Based on our conversations with thousands of employers, small and large, and my own 30-year career as a senior officer with Motorola tasked with opening up operations in Asia, Latin America, and more, I believe many of the strategies behind our local school systems' efforts to instill the critical "21st Century Survival Skills" in our students is the secret to our success. And I'm proud to report that our partners at Gwinnett County Public Schools, Buford City Schools, Gwinnett Tech, Georgia Gwinnett College, Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine – Gwinnett Campus and others are all excelling in this area.

The benefits of a workforce with these skills are also exponential.

Tony Wagner, co-director of the Change Leadership Group at Harvard University's Graduate School of Education once told the State Education Technology Directors Association, "A lot of people think the skills that students need to learn for the workforce and the skills they need to learn to be good citizens are two separate sets. But they're not. What makes a student successful in the global workforce will make a person successful at life."

The role of educators – and our role as the business community – is to make sure tomorrow's graduates have solid foundations to excel in the 21st century job market. Doing so makes them not only a better future employee or employer, but a better citizen whose impact could change the course of history.

Membership & Sponsorship Campaign: Don’t Let What Happens at the Chamber Stay at the Chamber

2010-08-06T11:19:00.002-04:00

With over 250 events each year designed to help local businesses grow their networks and leadership skills while also cutting expenses and business costs, "don't let what happens at the Chamber, stay at the Chamber." This is what the casino-themed 2010 Membership and Sponsorship Campaign, kicking off on August 12 at the Gwinnett Chamber to achieve our goal of $715,000, will encourage team members to do during this year's campaign. The Gwinnett Chamber invites you to become a part of the Campaign and "go all in" to help spread awareness about the Chamber and to raise the funds to sustain programs for business development, community improvement and member services.

Those participating in the campaign are invited to attend the Kick-off Celebration, held on August 12 from 5:30-8:00 p.m. for Casino Night, where guests will enjoy free martinis, hors d'oeuvres, and prizes. The campaign, which will encourage participants to "Go all in" and "Not let what happens at the Chamber, stay at the Chamber," will run from August 2010 to January 2011 generating new members, programs and event sponsorships, selling advertisements in Chamber publications and raising awareness of the Gwinnett Chamber throughout the region.

The campaign will be carried out by Campaign Co-Chairs Derek Schwerzler with Stephen Gould Corporation and David Seago with Georgia Power, five vice chairs, 25+ corporate teams, 150+ team members; Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors and Chamber staff. The volunteers are responsible for selling memberships, sponsorships and securing budget trades.

The campaign will continue through the fall at Reward Sessions held every other Thursday at various locations around the county, until the Victory Celebration in January 2011. These sessions will celebrate successes, pay out top cash incentives, and recognize the top producers. When the winning hands are revealed, the volunteers who generate $11,000 or more will celebrate their victory at the winner's table with the grand prize, which is a trip to Aruba.

"The Chamber's drive for memberships and sponsorships is so much more than just a campaign," said Campaign Co-Chair Derek Schwerzler. "In addition to supporting the growth and strength of the Chamber, the Campaign is a way for Chamber members to come together and support each other."

As a past winner of the victory trip, Schwerzler also noted that the trip to Aruba is a wonderful incentive. "The fun atmosphere and the trip incentive makes the Campaign that much more worthwhile for Chamber members," said Schwerzler.

Volunteers, like Sherwood McDuffie with SunTrust Bank, Laurie Garrard with Office Creations, Inc., Brad Carr with Andersen, Tate, & Carr, PC, Dorsey Grist with United Community Bank, Matt Hyatt with Rocket IT and Andrea Wehrmann with Gwinnett Medical Center will be working hard not only to win at trip to Aruba, but to raise the funds to sustain programs for business development, community improvement and member services.

In addition to raising funds for the Chamber, the Campaign also provides volunteers an opportunity to grow professionally, expand business and community contacts, and help the Gwinnett Chamber become even stronger and more vital for business in the future.

"The 2010 Membership and Sponsorship Campaign is an opportunity to be a part of something big," said 2010 Co-Chair David Seago. "By participating in the Campaign, you will have the opportunity to meet the region's top business leaders who are volunteering their efforts to advance the Chamber's mission and goals by raising funds to sustain vital chamber programs for business development, community improvement and member services."

"Go all in!," join a team today and learn how you can help your community while earning cash incentives and/or a trip to Aruba. In addition, to heighten your company's exposure during the campaign, you can also sponsor a campaign reward session or donate gifts to be used as door prizes for the volunteers. For more information, please contact Donna McBee at donna@gwinnettchamber.org or 770-232-8810.

BIG Expo and Job Fair to Showcase Gwinnett’s Top Small Businesses

2010-08-06T10:54:00.002-04:00

Gwinnett County is home to some of the best and brightest small businesses and entrepreneurs. This thriving entrepreneurial climate has made the area a regional leader in business development. With its location, infrastructure, workforce, school systems, and exceptional quality of life, it is no surprise that more than 30,000 small businesses call Gwinnett home.

Helping businesses succeed is the business of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, and when Gwinnett was named an "Entrepreneurial Friendly Community" by the Governor, the state identified the Gwinnett Chamber as the "one-stop shop" for starting and growing a business in Gwinnett.

From answering questions and providing a host of useful information to promoting growth in the county, there are people working everyday to help make Gwinnett a place where businesses thrive and success lives.

The 2010 BIG Expo and Job Fair held on August 19th is one of many ways the Gwinnett Chamber helps Gwinnett's small business and entrepreneurs to succeed. As the largest Chamber-sponsored business-to-business tradeshow and job fair of its kind in Georgia, the BIG Expo will showcase Gwinnett's top small business and entrepreneurs.

BIG Expo and Job Fair Presenting Sponsor Gwinnett Medical Center's President & CEO Phil Wolfe commented that as the leading hospital system in the region, they are proud to be serving as the presenting sponsor for the BIG Expo & Job Fair allowing Gwinnett Medical Center the opportunity to showcase this strong amenity for Gwinnett's small businesses and entrepreneurs.

"Gwinnett Medical Center is transforming healthcare in Gwinnett County and beyond by providing the highest quality care available," said Wolfe. "This quality healthcare is one of the many reasons why Gwinnett has an influx of businesses and entrepreneurs choosing to operate in Gwinnett."

After selling out last year, this year's show has expanded to feature more than 230 companies that will showcase everything today's business decision-maker needs to be successful in Gwinnett and around the globe. Gwinnett's top businesses will be looking for the best new employees. With the support of Presenting Sponsor Gwinnett Medical Center, this one-day event keeps participants on the competitive edge with networking and educational opportunities sure to make a positive difference in any business' bottom line.

Attendees will benefit from the best competitive shopping experience for their business and learn from some of the region's hottest business experts and authors. And best of all it's free and open to everyone.

Exhibit: An ideal way for Gwinnett companies to gain exposure for their company, exhibitors will have the unique opportunity to showcase their business to more than 7,500 potential clients and employees in special exhibition sections including technology, healthcare, education, hospitality, international, general business, and more.

Job Fair: Gwinnett's top companies will be in attendance to recruit qualified candidates for entry-level to upper-management positions. The BIG Expo gives recruiters and job seekers the perfect opportunity to connect.

Membership Luncheon: The day kicks off with a special General Membership Luncheon at 11:30 a.m. featuring Steve Penley, artist of the famous Ronald Reagan piece and author of "The Reconstruction of America."

Educational Solutions: Throughout the day, a series of seminars focus on the many aspects of doing business. In today's fast-paced competitive world, excellent business and personal skills are essential for survival. Learn proven strategies that will help you perform better on a daily basis by attending one or more of these interesting seminars.

Business After Hours: Held on the Exhibit Hall floor from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., this Business After Hours, sponsored by Proof of the Pudding, is one you do not want to miss. It's free, so come out, eat, drink and do business after hours.

Representing Gwinnett Medical Center at the BIG Expo & Job Fair, Gwinnett Medical Center Spokeswoman Andrea Wehrmann commented that as the presenting sponsor for the past three years, Gwinnett Medical Center is truly a testament for how a Gwinnett business is able to effectively promote community outreach, network and showcase their quality products and services to the business community face-to-face at the BIG Expo.

"This is more than an advertisement can buy you," said Wehrmann. "This is a chance not only for consumers to learn about the products and services in their backyard but a chance for your business to be part of the largest networking playing field during 2010."

As a past participant in the Expo Wehrmann conveyed that the overall atmosphere of the Expo when you walk through the doors is immediate high energy and business savvy enthusiasm. "This is the networking event of the year for local businesses and something you don't want to miss," said Wehrmann. "Please come join us at the 2010 BIG Expo, we look forward to seeing you there!"

For more information on the 2010 BIG Expo and Job Fair, visit www.bigexpoandjobfair.com.

Gwinnett Chamber Announces 26th Class of Leadership Gwinnett

2010-07-16T16:13:00.003-04:00

Leadership Gwinnett Class to Begin in August 2010

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 26^th class of Leadership Gwinnett beginning in August 2010. From the nearly 800 nominations received each year for the nine-month experience, Leadership Gwinnett alumni selected the final group of 36 based on work experience, accomplishments, community involvement, education and other information from their individual applications. The program year is comprised of two overnight retreats, seven one-day symposia covering world class community, infrastructure, economics, education, health & human services, justice and regional relations, as well as monthly study groups and other activities.

"Choosing the class requires balancing the occupations, qualifications and commitment of the candidates to insure a representation that reflects a cross section of the county. The caliber of these applicants makes selection more difficult. Since the class size is limited to 36, many excellent candidates are not chosen on their first nomination. For this reason, we strongly encourage candidates to apply again if not selected," said Gail Macrenaris, director of leadership and education, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

"Leadership Gwinnett has been a tremendous success for our county. Since the program's inception in 1985, over 800 alumni have taken their places in our community as decision makers and role models. Leadership graduates can be found in every aspect of Gwinnett business, civic and cultural life," said Jim Maran, president and CEO, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

The 2010 – 2011 Leadership Gwinnett Class includes:

Barbara Bender, Hamilton Financial, CPA

Jody Campbell, Webb, Tanner, Powell, Mertz & Wilson, LLP

Dave Donnelly, Cardiovascular Group, PC

Samantha Dunn, Gwinnett Braves

Rich Edinger, Clark Patterson, Lee

Cheryl Fleetwood, New Mercies Christian Church

Inman Houston, Lawrenceville First Baptist Church

Amy Hutchins, Georgia Power Company

Matt Hyatt, Rocket IT

Asif Jessani, Complete Computer Solutions

Mark Landtroop, Margaret Will Holt Elementary School

Lanier Levett, Gregory B. Levett & Sons Funeral Home & Crematory

Nick Masino, Gwinnett Chamber

Randy Meacham, Gwinnett Municipal Association

Suzanne Molock, Gwinnett Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine

Holly Moore, Growing Leaders

Spencer Murphy, BB&T

Bill Myers, Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services

Laine Nowell, Wachovia

Kevin O'Brien, Ameriprise Financial

Letycia Pastrana, Gwinnett Village Community Alliance

Kenneth Poe, Gwinnet County Human Resources Department

Ginger Powell, Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation

James Rayford, Gwinnett County Public Schools

Jon Richards, Site ROI, Inc.

Bill Rosenberg

Tom Savage, Gwinnett County Police Department

Victoria Seals, Gwinnett Technical College

Rebecca Spitler, Management Consulting

Charles Swain, Colliers Spectrum Cauble Management

Katie Sweeney, Gwinnett Federal Credit Union

Donald Swift, Andersen, Tate & Carr, PC

Victor Sze, Raymond James

Gwen Tatum, Shiloh High School

Regina Vella, Georgia Gwinnett College

Glen Williams, i9Sports

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Congratulations Gwinnett Medical Center!

2010-07-07T09:41:00.004-04:00

As a proud supporter and friend of Gwinnett Medical Center (GMC), the Gwinnett Chamber would like to congratulate GMC on the groundbreaking of their Open Heart Center. Please join the Gwinnett Chamber in celebrating the new facility and its services that will save countless lives in Gwinnett and metro Atlanta by viewing GMC Foundation's video and sharing it with your friends and family. To view the video, visit http://www.openheartgwinnett.com/, and click play on the "Boom Boom Heart" video.

Gwinnett Medical Center Breaks Ground for Open Heart Center

Lawrenceville, GA - Gwinnett Medical Center recently broke ground for its Heart & Vascular Center, which is slated to open in early 2012. More than 300 members of the community attended a groundbreaking celebration which featured presentations by Charles Bannister, Chairman of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners and Philip Wolfe, GMC's president and chief executive officer.

Thanks to an incredible outpouring of community support, GMC secured approval from the State to launch its open heart program in Gwinnett County. Gwinnett is the largest county in the nation without an open heart surgery program, causing hundreds of residents to have to travel outside of the area to receive vital cardiac care.

"As strong as we believed our application to the state was, we knew that we couldn't bring this vital service to Gwinnett without proving that this community not only needed, but demanded that Gwinnett Medical Center be able to offer comprehensive cardiac services that a community of this size requires," said Wolfe. "Now we can truly say that open heart is in our hands."

A dedicated 40,000 square foot facility is in development. This $33 million investment will ensure that the people of Gwinnett County have access to a complete range of cardiac services.

"This will be a state-of-the-art center, infusing the latest technologies," said Manfred Sandler, MD, director of cardiology at GMC. "For the professionals who will work here, it will be a dream. Physicians and staff have been involved in the planning and design process, and the result is the creation of facilities that are optimally configured - providing the best possible environment to focus on the task at hand."

While open heart surgery has been the focal point of the project, the program does encompass other advanced cardiovascular services, including coronary angioplasty and stenting procedures. These new services add to a well-respected cardiac program that includes an accredited chest pain center in the emergency department, a cardiac wellness program certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation and a full range of cardiac diagnostic services.

The GMC Foundation is in the midst of a capital campaign to raise $8 million to assist in funding the Heart & Vascular Center project. In honor of the groundbreaking, the Foundation created a video showcasing donors, associates and community leaders celebrating GMC's new Heart and Vascular Center.

"We hope the video will create awareness of GMC and the services provided at both hospitals, showcasing the excellent care provided by our system and the passion behind the bricks and mortar," said Jason Chandler, president of the GMC Foundation.

For information about making a donation to the Foundation or to view the video, visit http://www.openheartgwinnett.com/.

Get Face-to-Face with Your Customers at the BIG Expo & Job Fair

2010-06-11T10:38:00.002-04:00

Companies looking for the perfect place to find leads, begin building strong business relationships and to close deals can look no further than the upcoming 2010 BIG Expo and Job Fair Presented by Gwinnett Medical Center on August 19 at the Gwinnett Center. Face-to-face is the best way to explain comprehensive information, to qualify leads and to clear up questions that might otherwise become insurmountable objections. After all, how many businesses have you sold without meeting the investor face-to-face?

According to a Forbes Insights study, "Business Meetings: The Case for Face-to-Face," business executives overwhelmingly prefer face-to-face meetings with more than eight out of 10 saying they like in-person contact over virtual. The Forbes Insight study further revealed that those who prefer face-to-face meeting agree that they help build stronger, more meaningful relationships and give the ability to "read" another person along with greater social interaction.

"Our visitors are looking for a business opportunity. The Expo gives you the chance to sell them yours," said Melissa Britt, program & events manager, Gwinnett Chamber. The Expo is the perfect marketing channel for organizations offering business opportunities, franchises, licenses, advice or support services and investment opportunities.

Britt recommends that after purchasing a booth to start spreading the word about your participation in the Expo. "To achieve maximum results in terms of sales and business growth at the Expo, it is highly recommended for companies to begin preshow promotion as soon as possible," says Britt. "Most importantly make sure that your own customers know that you will be exhibiting."

By purchasing a booth for as little as $320, research has shown you are likely to generate 20 to 30 solid leads and display your product or service to more than 500 qualified prospects each hour.

For more information on purchasing a booth at the 2010BIG Expo and Job Fair, visit www.bigexpoandjobfair.com

Partnership Gwinnett Summit: Strong Vitals. Healthy Outlook.

2010-06-11T10:31:00.002-04:00

With over 130 relocations and expansions accounting for over 7,500 jobs and over $360 million in capital investment since Partnership Gwinnett's inception, it is clear that the Gwinnett Chamber understands the essentials keeping its community vitals strong and what it takes to drive a healthy community and economic development initiative to promote jobs and wealth for Gwinnett and the Greater Atlanta community. On August 24th, T-Mobile will present the Partnership Gwinnett Summit where guests will learn about the key elements of a successful community and economic development plan – economic diversification and wealth creation, education and workforce excellence, quality of life enhancements, and marketing and outreach – and how Gwinnett is progressing in these areas.

"Gwinnett has become a powerhouse community for proactive economic development in metro Atlanta," commented Nick Masino, vice president of economic development, Gwinnett Chamber. "The Summit captures our collective success and drives our vision for the future, while providing an opportunity to recognize and thank all of those who make Partnership Gwinnett metro Atlanta's leader in community and economic development collaboration."

The Partnership Gwinnett Summit, which is an annual event, provides a unique opportunity to meet with leaders from both the public and private sectors guiding the economic and community development of Gwinnett. Panel presentations and discussions featuring leading local and state experts will address overall economic viability of Gwinnett County along with special sessions on workforce development, public policy, business recruitment strategy and more.

"Partnership Gwinnett provides a vehicle for affecting positive change in Gwinnett and the surrounding region while marketing to the world all that Gwinnett has to offer," said Gwinnett County Commission Chairman Charles Bannister. "As other companies around the country and the world think about where they want to be in the 21st century, you'd better believe Gwinnett County is higher on their lists than ever before."

Partnership Gwinnett unveils its annual report at the Summit every year touting the community's achievements in business development, education and workforce, quality of life and marketing.

Some of this year's highlights will include:

The relocation of two large corporate headquarters in less than a year with Asbury Automotive and NCR
Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation was recognized as the number one park agency in the nation receiving the coveted Grand Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management from the National Recreation and Park Association and the American Academy for Park and Recreation Administration
The launch of a regional comprehensive entrepreneurial development initiative, the Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship, attracting more than 380 small businesses to the program. Its goals are to identify, enable and promote all innovative, high-growth, high-impact companies and to foster and accelerate the region's entrepreneurial culture
After three years of coming close to achieving the top legislative priority, transportation, for the Gwinnett Chamber/Partnership Gwinnett Legislative Agenda, the Georgia General
Assembly voted to allow referendums throughout the state on transportation funding. The historical legislation, recently signed into law by Governor Sonny Perdue, creates 12 regional districts across the state (including Gwinnett in the ARC region). "Regional roundtables" comprised of local elected officials (Chairs and a Mayor from each county) will develop a project list to be voted on by citizens in the 2012 general primary and be funded by a one penny sales tax.

Commenting on the Partnership Gwinnett Summit, Ann Brooks, spokesperson, T-Mobile, said that they are thrilled to be partnering again with the Gwinnett Chamber in presenting the Summit. "Wireless technology is an integral part of the 21st century and economic development," said Brooks. "We are looking forward to highlighting wireless as an essential element of economic development to Gwinnett and metro Atlanta's leaders at the Partnership Gwinnett Summit."

With the support of investors and partners, like you, we are connecting Gwinnett with the world and creating an even higher standard of excellence than ever before! With more than 200 business, community and elected leaders, the Partnership Gwinnett Summit on August 24th from 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at Gwinnett Technical College, is the perfect opportunity to get involved and build connections to strengthen your organization. For sponsorship and registration information, contact Lindsay Myers at 678-957-4944 or Lindsay@gwinnettchamber.org.

Let’s Do Business Gwinnett

2010-06-11T10:11:00.002-04:00

By: Gwinnett Chamber President & CEO Jim Maran

There is an estimated $20 million dollars in daily business that is currently being lost to companies outside of Gwinnett specifically, but also Metro Atlanta.

Our ultimate goal for the "Let's Do Business Gwinnett" Economic Stimulus Plan is to change that statistic by affecting a shift in local business-to-business and government-to-business purchasing so that five percent of the amount now spent outside the Gwinnett area is returned to our local community.

According to similar programs in comparable counties/regions, if we can achieve just a five percent shift in purchasing, that could mean as much as $1 million dollars each day or $365 million dollars each year that will impact our local economy. That's more than $1.8 billion dollars pumped back into our local economy in five years.

We'll do this by increasing public awareness about the advantages of buying from local businesses and promoting area businesses.

We hope to not only improve the bottom line for these businesses, but also improve the local economy overall and create a sustainable future for our community.

We are asking businesses and local governments to take a look at their purchasing habits and seek out-of-area purchases they could potentially bring back into the local area. Doing so makes our community and region a better place to live by creating a stronger economy for our businesses.

Here's how it works. We've created a simple five step plan that anyone can use to make it happen. First, go to www.letsdobusinessgwinnett.com and visit the "Do It Ourself" page.

Step One… Agree to Participate:
Commit to review your company's out-of-area spending and consider, where possible, to return a portion to Gwinnett County. Fill out the online form.

Step Two… Hit the Books:
Pinpoint dollars your company sends out of our area and look for a niche. It might be products, services, consumables like office supplies or printed materials, or items unique to your business.

Step Three… Check for Partners:
Use our directory of Pledged Companies or use the Gwinnett Chamber's online directory to find companies in the Gwinnett and Metro Atlanta area offering anything you need, or call us directly for assistance: 770-232-3000. We'll help you find a partner. Or two, or three…

Step Four… "Let's Do Business"
If you can get it locally, and it meets your needs, your standards, your price, why not buy here? Companies in Gwinnett County may not have everything you need, but they might have some of it. Contact them and start doing business today.

Step Five...Tell Us:
Get some recognition for your hard work. Tell us how you were able to identify out of the area purchases, to bring back to the Gwinnett County. Or tell us how you were able to help a company bring back dollars to our region by providing a new service or product to meet their needs. Tell us when you had to hire a new employee because of a new customer. Submit your story online.

That's it. Simple. Direct. But impactful. Again, if we can achieve just a five percent shift in purchasing, that could be $1 million each day or more than $1.8 billion dollars pumped back into our local economy in five years.

As this money moves through the community it 'multiplies' and could result in significant job growth jobs. The impact—at only five percent—would be overwhelming.

In closing, this campaign enriches our tax base and boosts sales tax revenue while improving public services, streets, schools, parks and playgrounds, expanding business, attracting businesses, and creating jobs. Ultimately that means lower taxes for everyone without jeopardizing important services.

The Chamber gives back! Join us on June 4th at an all-day clean-up of McDaniel Farm Park

2010-05-28T10:28:00.003-04:00

Join Us!
The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Network Gwinnett invite you to join us at
The Chamber Gives Back!

An all-day clean-up of McDaniel Farm Park, a 130-acre park located at 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth 30096, near Old Norcross Road and Gwinnett Place Mall. You only need to bring/wear work clothes and bring garden gloves. The park staff will furnish all other equipment. There are picnic grounds, so you are welcome to bring your lunch and eat in the pavilion.

When: June 4, 2010, 9:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. Come whenever you can during this time

Where: 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth 30096

What: Clean up, paint up, and fix up

Why: An opportunity to give back to the community

For more information, contact Pat Brannon -
pat@gwinnettchamber.org or (770) 232-8817.

Click here to download the flyer.

GWINNETT CHAMBER NAMES RACHEL BARTZ AS PROGRAMS AND EVENTS MANAGER

2010-05-24T13:37:00.002-04:00

Rachel to Support Gwinnett's Business and Community Leaders by Providing Quality Programs and Services

Duluth, GA – The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce has announced the addition of Rachel Bartz as its new programs and events manager. Rachel, who has proven event planning and program management skills, comes to Gwinnett from the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins where she served as event coordinator for the past three years.

As the programs and events manager, Rachel will oversee Drugs Don't Work, Gwinnett's Leadership Organization for Women (GLOW), Human Resource Management Association (HRMA), and Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship (MACE). Through these programs, Rachel will support the overall mission of the Chamber in creating, promoting, and sustaining a responsible pro-business environment by providing quality programs for Gwinnett County's business and community leaders.

Rachel is enthusiastically charged and has ambitious goals for her involvement with the Chamber.

"In an effort to meet the business and leadership needs of our members, I plan to provide the highest of quality programs and support so that our member businesses can achieve success," Rachel said.

Rachel brings strong operational and management skills to this position. During her tenure at the Museum of Aviation, Rachel coordinated over 2,000 events at the museum ranging from large tradeshows, Hall of Fame banquets, golf tournaments, wedding receptions, and military ceremonies.

Rachel graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree with a concentration in public relations and a minor in rhetoric from Georgia College and State University. While in college, Rachel was an active member of the University Student Ambassador Program where she served as vice president and was very involved in Alpha Delta Pi Sorority, Greek Panhellenic Board, Dance Marathon Charity and the Orientation Leader Team for new freshman.

"The Gwinnett Chamber is pleased to welcome Rachel Bartz as its newest team member," said Alicia Krogh, director of executive affairs & programs, Gwinnett Chamber. "Rachel, with her event planning knowledge and proven track record of success, will serve Gwinnett's business community well."

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GWINNETT LEADERS UNVEIL DETAILS OF MAJOR ECONOMIC STIMULUS INITIATIVE

2010-05-21T14:04:00.004-04:00

Homeowners, Homebuyers, Local Businesses, Construction, Real Estate Markets to be Biggest Winners with Projected $1 Billion Impact

Duluth, GA- Leaders from Georgia's second largest county aren't waiting around for the economy to recover. On the heels of a string of recent economic development successes and announcements, Gwinnett County's public and private sector leaders today launched "Let's Do Business Gwinnett," an unprecedented economic stimulus plan for Gwinnett County designed to assist homeowners, small businesses, and the construction and real estate industries by stabilizing housing prices and stimulating local consumer, business and public sector spending. If successful, Gwinnett County could benefit from a potential economic impact of more than $1 billion to the local economy over the next five years.

At a press conference held in a half vacant new residential development all too familiar in communities across the nation, leaders from the Gwinnett Chamber, the Gwinnett Housing Authority, Gwinnett County and City Governments, Gwinnett County Public Schools and The Impact! Group described the stimulus plan as an unprecedented effort being undertaken by the public and private sectors in Gwinnett County to stabilize housing prices and stimulate consumer, business and public sector spending.

The initiative is focused on two key elements:

Increased Spending on Residential Property and Vacant Lots in Gwinnett

Gwinnett County government, banks, mortgage companies, the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia, the Impact! Group, and the Gwinnett Housing Authority have collaborated on a package that essentially "continues" a similar version of the federal homebuyer tax incentives that expired April 30 for homes and lots purchased in Gwinnett County. They include:

Approximately $5,000 down payment incentive for new constructed homes priced up to $205,000.
Through a coalition of Gwinnett banks (The Brand Banking Co., Independence Bank of GA, Legacy State Bank, Piedmont Bancorp, Gwinnett Community Bank, Quantum Bank), special financing and products are being offered that homebuyer's can't get anywhere else in the market. The program is also open to other banks' participation. These products include:
- 6.49% financing, on select homes, for borrowers needing time to improve credit.
- Special low-interest loans for select houses as low as 3.49% for homes purchased in Gwinnett.
Encouraging local governments to spur rapid absorption of existing inventory of empty, existing residential lots.

Leaders believe the short and long-term result will be an increased demand for Gwinnett properties resulting in a reduction of empty lots, distressed properties, and available homes with limited buyers. The move should also stabilize lot and home values; increase consumer spending and jobs for the residential home industry (construction, sales, financing); increase home values; and lower taxes through increased tax digest for city, county, and school services.

"Three years ago anyone who wanted to buy a house could do so, but today there are people who would like to own and can afford a home but cannot get qualified because of the tight credit markets," says 2010 Gwinnett Chamber Chairman and The Brand Banking Company CEO Bartow Morgan. "We have too much of a supply of residential lots in Gwinnett County and until the supply is gone all home prices will remain depressed. Our ultimate goal through these residential stimulus measures is to help stabilize and increase house values for all homeowners."

Increased Private and Public Sector Spending in Gwinnett

The second component of the plan is a campaign in response to the estimated $20 million in daily business that is being lost to companies outside of Gwinnett specifically, but also Metro Atlanta. The campaign exists to encourage all Gwinnett businesses and local governments to consider buying from Gwinnett businesses before buying outside the county and region. Under the new program, participating companies can go to www.letsdobusinessgwinnett.com and pledge to examine their books and work to shift a portion of their out-of-Gwinnett spending back to Gwinnett.

According to similar programs in comparable counties/regions, if the "Let's Do Business Gwinnett" program can achieve a five percent shift in purchasing, that could mean as much as approximately $1 million each day or $365 million each year that will impact Gwinnett County's economy. As this money moves through the community it 'multiplies' and would also result in significant job growth.

"The impact—at only five percent—would be overwhelming and enrich our tax base while improving public services, streets, schools, parks and playgrounds, expanding business, attracting businesses, and creating jobs," says Gwinnett Chamber President & CEO Jim Maran. "We hope to improve the bottom line for Gwinnett's businesses by encouraging local businesses and governments to take a look at their purchasing habits and seek out-of-area purchases they could potentially bring back into the local area. Doing so makes our community and region a better place to live by creating a stronger economy for our businesses."

"When communities and neighbors work together for the common good, everybody wins – local businesses, employees, citizens and County government. I encourage all Gwinnett citizens to make a conscious effort to do business locally," says Gwinnett County Commission Chairman Charles Bannister.

The long-term overall impact could be significant and far-reaching. Leaders say if all of the predicted benefits are realized, Gwinnett County could potentially see more than $1 billion in economic impact and significant job growth created over the next five years through these actions.

To learn more, visit www.letsdobusinessgwinnett.com.

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Network Gwinnett: What Networking is All About

2010-05-10T11:01:00.002-04:00

Most people think networking is all about collecting as many business cards and meeting as many people as possible at any given business event. This couldn't be farther from the truth according to a few of the Gwinnett Chamber's expert networkers and frequent attendees of the Chamber's signature networking event, Network Gwinnett.

Network Gwinnett is a networking group of Gwinnett Chamber members designed to build relationships, support professional development, and develop lead-generating affiliations. This is the perfect opportunity to work with like-minded professionals who wish to grow their business and their network by meeting new people in new industries.

With a little bit of practice and the right frame of mind, networking can become a fun way to form new relationships and develop professionally and personally while growing your business. Whether you are new to networking or need a refresher course, the following tips will help networking become a successful business tactic for you:

1. Be a good listener. Martin Birkbeck with American Family Insurance says that too many people look at networking as part of the presentation portion of the sales cycle. "Networking is part of the prospecting process. When you are networking you should be prospecting for clients, referral sources, vendors and suppliers," says Martin. "The key to making that process a successful one is to be a good listener. By being a good listener it will help you identify and prequalify the right people to spend time with. Listening also allows you to connect people looking to achieve similar objectives. By actively seeking to connect people you will also be strengthening your role as someone with whom people want to network."

2. Don't approach your introduction as a pitch. Kathy Smart with International Business Academies of Learning says that by telling people what you do most of the time shuts people down right away. Instead, Kathy recommends sharing what you want people to know most about YOU and not WHAT you do but who you are as a person. Kathy says to approach your introduction not as a pitch – people want to buy but don't want to be sold. "By sharing what your customers enjoy about doing business with you will leave the audience wanting more or at least with a clear impression of who you are as a person and what value you offer to a potential customer," says Kathy. "This will open the door for more customers and good referrals in the future."

3. Attend a variety of events to meet a variety of people. Although Network Gwinnett is a great place to start, Ann LaFavor with LaFavor, Etc. recommends attending a variety of Gwinnett Chamber events to give you an advantage over competitors. "Every meeting is an opportunity to get your business increased visibility," says Ann. "For example, a cleaning service may feel the Chamber's Gwinnett Technology Forum isn't for them, but by attending the Tech Forum they will be in the room with up to 100 businesses that more than likely need cleaning services. When you attend the Tech Forum you will meet a different target market other than the ones you interact with at Network Gwinnett."

4. Sometimes less is more. Al Brown with Coveryou.com Group, LLC has a memorable analogy to help in networking situations. "Do not act like a DOG, jumping on everyone in the room. Instead, talk and listen to individuals and think about how you might be able to help them. Spend more time talking about their business than yours. Act like a CAT and select a few people to talk with at events. If you go to a meeting with 100 people, plan to talk to only six to eight new people per hour."

5. Be worth recommending. Melanie Morgan with MaverickMarketingDesign.com advises to spend much of your networking time learning about others and trying to connect good people together. "At the same time, be worth recommending by always striving to do your best work honorably. This winning combination will grow your business and your life," says Melanie.

Try out these networking tips at Network Gwinnett, held at the Gwinnett Chamber every Thursday from 7:30 am – 9 am and Friday from 10:30 am – noon. Members of the Chamber can expose their business to over 150 businesses each week at no cost.

Each Network Gwinnett meeting begins with a seven-minute presentation from a member. The presentation schedule rotates among members who are active in Network Gwinnett and have attended for at least three months. Ambassadors act as facilitators for the meetings.

After the presentation, each participant will be given the opportunity to introduce him or herself and their business to the group. Depending on the size of the group, introductions range from 20-45 seconds. After the introductions, participants will then state what a good "lead" is for them. After everyone has been introduced, the attendees will then report on how many leads were passed, works in progress and sales closed from the previous week's activities. There is also ample time to meet and greet before and after the meetings.

For information on how Network Gwinnett can help to market your business, contact Gwinnett Chamber Senior Manager of Membership Services, Kim Jones at 770-232-8805 or kim@gwinnettchamber.org.

Sustainability Summit: Better Practices, Better Business, Better Bottom Line

2010-05-10T09:57:00.002-04:00

In this economic downturn, cutting costs can be crucial, now more than ever. One way to reduce costs, while impacting the greater good, is through sustainability. On May 11th, the Chamber's Economic Development Council will present the Second Annual Sustainability Summit, held at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., where participants can learn how sustainability through energy efficiency can make economic sense and improve companies' bottom lines.

Greater Atlanta's top sustainability experts will be speaking at the forum including Tom LaForge, director of knowledge and insights, The Coca Cola Company; Dennis Baxter, support services, Gwinnett County; Connie Wiggins, Director, Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful; Dan Loudermilk, sustainable systems engineer, GA-DNR; Bradley Griffin, VP-Operations, Russell Landscape Group Inc.; and Dennis Daniel, director of facilities and global securities, Merial. Southface Executive Director and Co-Founder, Dennis Creech will provide the keynote luncheon address.

Commenting on what participants will learn from the speakers, Lauren Salas, business development manager, Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development, said that attendees will be the first to hear about the growing Lifestyles of Health & Sustainability movement (LOHAS) and how Gwinnett County continues to take the lead on becoming more sustainable.

"Business leaders will also share how sustainability through energy efficiency, landfill avoidance and water conservation can make economic sense and improve companies' bottom line," said Salas. "Participants will leave the forum with the knowledge of how other companies have implemented successful sustainability policies as well as an understanding of how their own company can use these same best practices to become more sustainable."

For more information and to register for the Second Annual Sustainability Summit, visit www.gwinnettchamber.org/sustainability2010. Participants holding a Georgia real estate license will receive four (4) CEU credits for attending this event. Display tables are available for purchase at this event. For more information, contact Lindsay Myers at 678-957-4944 or Lindsay@gwinnettchamber.org. The event is sponsored by Platinum Sponsor: One Sugarloaf Centre and Gold BOMA-Atlanta, Jackson EMC, and California Pizza Kitchen and Silver sponsors Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, Allgood Pest Solutions, Georgia Power, Swedish American Chamber of Commerce-Georgia.

GWINNETT CHAMBER ANNOUNCES TOP SMALL BUSINESSES AND NON-PROFITS OF THE YEAR

2010-04-23T16:39:00.002-04:00

Integrative Logic's John Gardner Awarded the 2010 Overall Gwinnett Small Business Person of the Year; American Cancer Society, Boy Scouts of America's Northeast Georgia Council and Just People, Inc. Received Pinnacle Non-profit Awards

Duluth, GA- Integrative Logic Owner John Gardner was awarded the 2010 Overall Gwinnett Small Business Person of the Year Award and was also the winner of Gwinnett's Small Business Person of the Year for the 10 - 99 employee category at the Gwinnett Chamber's Pinnacle Small Business Awards Luncheon on April 23. Additional Small Business Persons of the Year Awards were presented to Angela Cain with Nouveaute'/Angela Cain Interiors for the 1 – 9 employee category and Perry Tindol with Allgood Pest Solutions for the 100+ employee category. Twenty-two additional small businesses were also awarded Pinnacle Awards and named among the prestigious "Pinnacle Top 25" for demonstrating extraordinary growth and contributions to the community.

Formerly known as the Small Business Person of the Year Awards, the Pinnacle Small Business Awards Presented by Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) are among the Chamber's most prestigious awards. The celebration recognized both emerging companies as well as companies that have exhibited a substantial history as an established business.

The companies honored at the luncheon were selected from more than 300 nominations and from 50 finalists as Gwinnett's Top 25 Pinnacle Small Business Award Winners. Companies were selected based on steady and above average growth and profitability, growth in number of employees, contributions to the community, overcoming adversity, original entrepreneurship and more, as defined by the Small Business Administration for their statewide and national awards. Integrative Logic, Nouveaute'/Angela Cain Interiors, and Allgood Pest Solutions scored the highest combined scores in their respective employee categories.

From those three winners, Integrative Logic came away with the highest scores overall, winning Gwinnett's Overall Small Business Person of the Year, and will go on to compete as Georgia's Small Business Person of the Year.

The Gwinnett Chamber and Presenting Sponsor AJC also recognized Gwinnett's top non-profit organizations, whose generous and inspiring efforts can be seen and felt throughout Gwinnett. Receiving the Pinnacle Non-Profit Awards are the American Cancer Society for the top small non-profit category, Boy Scouts of America's Northeast Georgia Council for the top mid-size nonprofit category, and Just People, Inc. for the top large non-profit category. The non-profits honored at the luncheon were selected based on board of directors strength; staying power; growth in employees/volunteers and budget; innovation of service; response to adversity; and overall contribution to the community.

The Pinnacle Small Business Award Winners

Integrative Logic - John Gardner - Overall Small Business Person of the Year and Small Business Person of the Year (10 - 99 employee category)
Integrative Logic, a direct-to-consumer marketing company, was literally dreamed up in a garage in Lawrenceville and has grown to become an international company serving clients in the United States, Canada, Europe, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Integrative Logic has been recognized by both Inc. magazine and the Atlanta Business Chronicle as one of the fastest growing companies in the country and top agencies in Metro Atlanta, respectively. As a company that has grown its revenue by 139 percent over the past three years, they are also a generous company. On average, Integrative Logic donates almost 20 percent of its net profit to charity and employee-centric causes.

Nouveaute'/Angela Cain Interiors - Angela Cain - Small Business Person of the Year (1 – 9 employees)
Angela Cain, owner of Nouveaute'/Angela Cain Interiors has found unique ways to bring a positive light to the difficult economic climate allowing her company to achieve over $3.8 million in revenue in the past three years. Whether it's leasing furniture to builders for their projects, creating an avenue for the community to consign their home furnishings or offering the community the opportunity to benefit from wholesaler closeouts, Angela Cain has responded to economic adversity by reevaluating marketing strategies and implementing new avenues of doing business.

Allgood Pest Solutions - William "Perry" Tindol - Small Business Person of the Year (100+ employee category)
Allgood Pest Solutions' growth success story personifies the "Success Lives Here" slogan of Gwinnett County. In 19 short years Allgood has grown from first year revenues of nearly $100,000 to their 2009 revenue figure of $18.3 million. Even more remarkable was Allgood's foresight to expand their commercial services to mitigate declining revenue in their residential services due to the economic down turn. This growth strategy resulted in an 18.6 percent growth in their commercial services in one of the worst economies.

Aaron Plumbing - Timothy Adams
Timothy Adams built his company, Aaron Plumbing, from nothing. For Timothy, faith, hard work and having a catchy slogan – "A Flush beats a full house" - were essential to getting his company off the ground. By insisting on quality work, honesty, and respect for customers, Timothy has grown his company from two to 16 employees and increased his revenue by 30 percent for the past three years.

Advanced Diabetic Solutions - Greg Santulli/Jordan Benis
As a diabetic supply distributor focusing on supplies and therapeutic footwear, Advanced Diabetic Solution has carved out a niche in the marketplace by providing services for the visually challenged. Their commitment to education has made their company a preferred choice in the visually impaired community. By remaining debt free and by growing their revenues by 80 percent for the past three years, Advanced Diabetic Solutions is able to set their sights high and is investing several hundred thousand dollars to build and develop an infrastructure that will allow them to grow to one of the top providers in the US.

Alternative Apparel - Evan Toporek
At Alternative Apparel, a lifestyle apparel company offering a complete collection of ready-to-wear clothing and accessories, there is no shortage of ideas and imagination leading the company to become known as an innovator in the fashion and apparel industry. Because of the creativity and unique company culture cultivated at Alternative Apparel, the company experienced 550 percent growth within its first six years – subsequently earning the title as one of Inc. magazines "500 Fastest Growing Companies in America."

ASK Staffing, Inc. - Pallavi Shah/Manish Karani
ASK Staffing's belief that innovation happens every day, and even more so in tough times, helped them through one of the worst years in the history of the staffing industry. Through their belief in innovations, ASK Staffing pioneered the "flat fee" recruiting model which was their answer to survival and growth. Their unique pricing structure that serves as a win-win for the company and their customers alike has led them to almost double their revenue in the past three years growing from $3.1 million in 2007 to $5.1 million in 2009.

Atlanta Flooring Design Centers - Donny Phillips
Atlanta Flooring Design Centers recognized that by developing their business plan and culture to service multiple markets, they could strengthen their supplier relationships, lower product costs, reduce overhead and flatten business cycles. By expanding their product lines by adding cabinets and countertops and by increasing their market share through acquisition during the economic downturn, Atlanta Flooring Design Centers managed a staggering revenue growth in 2009 of 42 percent while increasing jobs by an unheard of 44 percent.

Bardi Mechanical/Bardi Heating & Air - Alex Bardi
When the economy flattened in the fall of 2009 along with the construction industry that served as the foundation for Bardi Heating & Air Conditioning, Owner Alex Bardi and his management team had to think creatively to find new market niches. By shifting gears to observe stimulus support of government-funded projects, by the end of 2009, Bardi grew their revenue by 21.9 percent. Bardi's growth is a testament to savvy leadership and an outstanding team who embraced the company's family philosophy of "doing the right thing."

Bartimaeus, Inc. - Dave Newman
While most companies related to construction were just trying to keep their doors open, Bartimaeus, a leading and respected Southeast provider in high quality window treatment products to the commercial and residential building industries, performed two of the largest jobs in their 25 year history simultaneously in 2009. Their ability to have a profitable 2009, generating $8.5 million in revenue can be attributed to their over 100 years combined knowledge and experience and their commitment to understanding customers' needs.

Dan D. Dunwoody D.D.S., P.C. - Dan D. Dunwoody III, D.D.S.
Specializing in providing orthodontics and dentofacial orthopedics to Gwinnett's citizens for over 25 years, Dr. Dan Dunwoody recently found himself in the unique position of expanding his practice by opening a second office. With the help of dental colleagues, friends and Gwinnett Chairman's Club member Duke Realty, the 23,500 square foot building was preleased, developed and 100 percent financed with minimal upfront costs that has already been recovered. Dr. Dunwoody's two locations, coupled with the latest in technological advances, enable his practice to provide a quality service with a lifetime benefit to the citizens of Gwinnett.

E2E Resources - Raymer Sale
E2E has grown from a one-person, home-based insurance agency to a company that employs 15 people. The company has grown from one line of coverage – employee benefits – to a company that offers employee benefits, risk management, personal lines and human resources services. Much of this growth occurred during one of the worst economic downturns this country has ever seen, including last year when E2E generated $1.4 million in revenue.

Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates, LLC - Jay R. Desai, MD
When Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates opened in the fall of 1982, Gwinnett County demographics consisted mostly of rural, Caucasian, agricultural-based residents. As the demographics over the last decade changed, the practice changed with it by earning the respect and trust from those with different race and religious backgrounds and currently proudly serves a wide spectrum of ethnic backgrounds. Gwinnett Internal Medicine's acceptance in the community and their dedication to provide compassionate and comprehensive health services for adults has generated $9.6 million in revenue during the past three years.

HealthCare Partners - Ruddy and Rhonda Polhill
In 2008, HealthCare Partners, a medical staffing firm, noticed that hospitals needed help building and maintaining their ER and hospitalist departments. HealthCare Partners responded to this need by strategically adjusting their offering and began bringing creative solutions to hospitals that were seeking a "better way" to ensure their ER is always staffed with high-quality physicians. Since implementing this offering, HealthCare Partners generated over $26.1 million in revenue.

Logical Choice Technologies - Cynthia B. Kaye
When the dot-com bubble burst in early 2000, Logical Choice made an agonizing decision to cut half of its workforce to survive. The remaining employees took pay cuts and a few true believers stayed on…working for coffee and better times. Logical Choice used the hard times of 2000 as an inspiration to narrow its focus squarely on technologies that enhance learning. This strategy proved highly successful as the company reached $79.7 million in revenue in 2009 and has built a strong education practice that stands today at the top of its industry nationwide.

Marketing Workshop, Inc. - Jim Nelems
Since starting Marketing Workshop, Inc. in 1972, the company has grown from a small firm with three employees to a major national research firm and is within the top two percent of the more than 6,000 U.S. research firms. Marketing Workshop has achieved such growth by responding to market changes as was the case in 2008 when Marketing Workshop spun off one of their division's to another firm without any loss of jobs and at the same time entering into a new line of business resulting in decline of five percent and returned to profitability in 2009.

Premier Immediate Care - Dr. Philip Henderson
One of many hurdles faced by Premier Immediate Care this past year was the growing unemployment rate in Georgia that presented the practice with an ever-increasing number of patients without insurance. Premier Immediate Care met this challenge head on by reducing rates for established patients, working diligently with vendors to keep costs down, and being flexible with payment plans. Premiere Immediate Care refused to let the economy interfere with patient care and has, in many ways, sacrificed luxuries to care for those in the economy. Despite this, the urgent care practice has continuously increased both patient population as well as their service line and on top of that, grew revenue by 11 percent in 2009.

ProCare - Stephen A. Schulte
Prosthetic Care, Inc. or ProCare, a medical practice providing prosthetic devices for upper and lower extremities for amputees, goes above and beyond the call of duty for its patients. One of many examples of their care and compassion is the development of the C.A.R.E. Initiative. Under this program, referring physicians are informed that, whenever possible, ProCare would like to begin seeing patients before the scheduled amputation. This program has resulted in shorter hospital stays and faster rehabilitation saving considerable medical expenses. Through programs like C.A.R.E., ProCare reached revenues of $3.3 million in 2009 and has continued to increase its number of employees with plans to add three more employees in 2010. Congratulations ProCare!

Rocket IT - Matt Hyatt
Rocket IT, a full service technology management and support firm, has a very simple mission: to empower businesses and other organizations by making technology attainable, useful, and reliable. Like many other technology support providers, Rocket IT initially earned income by charging most clients "by the hour." Recognizing a number of pitfalls to this billing practice, Matt came up with a new billing concept, Always Mission Critical, with support fees that are tied to the number of devices managed under the program and not a specific number of hours. Empowering clients through the Always Mission Critical support program served Matt well as Rocket IT increased its revenues by 149 percent in 2009.

Rogers Construction Company - Roger S. Huggins
During Roger's 34 years as owner of Rogers Construction Company, he has personally overseen the construction of over 40 school projects, 20 office buildings, 30 long-term medical and assisted living facilities, over 25 million square feet of light industrial projects, along with numerous other commercial and multi-family projects. On top of that, during the economic recession Rogers Construction grew to $67 million in revenues in 2008 and generated close to this same amount in 2009.

Service Foods, Inc. - Keith Kantor/Trey Pounders
In 2007, Service Foods changed from a company that not only sold great food but a company that helps people build healthier lives. Transitioning to a natural food company has served Keith and Trey well as Service Foods made the Inc 5000 list for 2007 and 2008. Their business grew over 445% last year and even more remarkable, Service Foods has never had to lay off an employee in 29 years which earned them the number 15 Best Place to Work from the Atlanta Business Chronicle in 2009.

Sun Technologies, Inc. - Ravi Damodaram/Anitha Ravi
Sun Technologies, which is a premier IT services and solutions company, has received many accolades in the 13 years that they have been in business that have surely led to revenues topping $15.5 million in 2009. Two successes that they are most proud of occurred in 2009. Based on their excellent performance, Sun Technologies was shortlisted to be one of 13 vendors from over 60 vendors providing IT services for a Fortune 10 global company. In 2009, they were also named one of the top 10 Asian American Businesses by the US Pan Asian American Council in the Southeast US.

Tara Fine Jewelry Co., Inc. - Buddy Anderson & Eddie Hazan
Tara Fine Jewelry Company, Inc. has been a landmark in the Gwinnett community of Buford, Georgia since 1985. Since first opening their doors, Tara Fine Jewelry has grown from a 525 square foot showroom to their recently expanded and remodeled state-of-the-art retail and repair facility that now exceeds 6,500 square feet. Their sales volume has also shown a steady and consistent pattern of growth almost every year in Tara's 25-year history. In addition, as a part of the fabric of the community, Tara Fine Jewelry has donated over $203,000 in cash and fine jewelry merchandise to 131 community projects and charitable events in Gwinnett and north Georgia.

THC, Inc. - Joe A. Carroll
THC, Inc, which provides land acquisition and noise mitigation services for airports, highway departments, utility companies, municipalities and governmental agencies, was the first firm in its industry to truly focus on following a Servant leadership model. Following this model helped THC to develop processes to assist property owners, whose homes THC was buying or acoustically modifying, feel comfortable. By establishing trust and rapport with property owners through Servant Leadership, THC grew its revenues by 105 percent in 2008 and by 12 percent in 2009.

The Myers Group - A.C. Myers
The ability to continually look to the future and not fall into the trap of doing what they've always done has enabled The Myers Group, which conducts healthcare survey research, to meet the changing needs of the market. At The Myers Group, they listen to their clients and always ask themselves the question, "What else does the client want or need?" Answering this question and meeting their clients' specific research needs led to a 37 percent growth in revenue in 2007 followed by 13 percent in 2008.

The Pinnacle Non-Profit Award Winners

American Cancer Society – Top Small Non-profit
For the American Cancer Society in Gwinnett, Relay for Life is the identifying event that sets the nationwide community-based volunteer health organization apart, not only in this county, but also nationwide. The Gwinnett Relay for Life is the largest Relay event in the world annually attracting over 12,000 people. In 2009, $2.1 million was raised in the fight against cancer. In addition to events such as Relay for Life, the American Cancer Society also works on creative and new ways to fight cancer on a local basis. The Society's Patient Resource Navigator at Gwinnett Medical Center is a great example of the leading edge solutions that are happening right here in Gwinnett. Through these services and many others, countless lives have been touched and saved in Gwinnett because of the tireless efforts of the American Cancer Society.

The Boy Scouts of America's Northeast Georgia Council – Top Mid-size Non-profit
The Boy Scouts of America's Northeast Georgia Council has served hundreds of thousands of youth and their families since its inception. In 2009, over 120,000 hours of community services were provided by the Northeast Georgia Council in Gwinnett County. These projects benefited food banks, local municipalities, schools, parks, and churches throughout the county. To service the needs of a growing county and a rapidly changing population, the Northeast Georgia Council has increased their budget from $3.8 million in 2007 to $4.1 million in 2009. Through these funds donated to the organization, more than 100,000 service hours are provided to the county at no cost each year benefiting countless numbers of Gwinnettians.

Just People, Inc. – Top Large Non-profit
Just People, Inc., a private non-profit agency developed in 1995 to provide a variety of support services to adults that are developmentally disabled, mentally ill, or have head injuries, was developed by one person who believed that "everyone has the ability to make a difference" even if it is only within a five mile radius. After 15 years, the program that was housed in a kitchen with one vehicle and serving seven people has grown to a program that services over 250 people in six counties and has 15 vehicles on the road daily. Just recently in 2009, Just People relocated their Administrative Office and Day support services to an expanded location in Norcross allowing them to service 40 to 80 consumers a day and open six new job positions. "Just" People's impact on the families it serves and the reach into the community can undoubtedly be attributed to the "why not" and "let's try it" attitude of the organization.

Additional sponsors include Platinum Award Sponsor: Delta Community Credit Union, Gas South, Merrill Lynch – The Cross Group, and Moore Stephens Tiller LLC; Gold Sponsors Gwinnett Business Journal, Logical Choice Technologies, and Sam's Club; Silver Sponsors GiANT Impact and The Sign Stop; and Bronze Sponsor Brand Banking Company.

For more information on the Pinnacle Small Business Awards, visit www.pinnaclesmallbusinessawards.com.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber

Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

ENGAGE GWINNETT HOLDS FINAL COMMUNITY MEETING

2010-04-14T15:04:00.002-04:00

(Lawrenceville, Ga., April 13, 2010) - The public is invited to the final community meeting of the Engage Gwinnett citizens committee before the group presents its recommendations on future County services, service levels and revenue sources to the Board of Commissioners. The drop-in style meeting will be on Saturday, April 17, 2010, from 9 a.m. until noon at the Gwinnett Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth. Commissioners will get the committee's final recommendations on April 27.

Meeting materials and video summaries of past meetings, including a series of four public meetings held last February, are available online at www.engagegwinnett.com. Four work groups have developed both status quo and declining revenue scenario recommendations for community services, law enforcement and judiciary, fire and emergency, internal services, and development and infrastructure.

The committee of 42 citizen volunteers represents 30 stakeholder groups in the community plus 10 self-selected citizen representatives. Their review process began last year at a public meeting on Sept. 9, 2009.

Engage Gwinnett is a partnership between Gwinnett County government and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. Mike Levengood of McKenna Long & Aldridge and Bill McCargo with the Atlanta Education Fund are co-chairs of the committee, which seeks common ground, workable solutions and compromises as necessary for the greater good of the community to help guide the County government through the recession and its aftermath and over the next five years.

GWINNETT CHAMBER ANNOUNCES PINNACLE SMALL BUSINESS AND NON-PROFIT AWARD FINALISTS

2010-04-12T16:28:00.003-04:00

Gwinnett's best businesses and non-profits to be celebrated at the Pinnacle Small Business Awards Ceremony on April 23

Duluth, GA- In support of National Small Business Week, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will recognize and honor Gwinnett's best small businesses and non-profits at the Pinnacle Small Business Awards Luncheon Presented by Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) on April 23 at the Atlanta Marriott – Gwinnett Place at 11:30 a.m. From these finalists, Gwinnett's top 25 Pinnacle Small Business Award winners, and its top Small Businesses and Non-Profits of the Year will be announced that afternoon for small, medium and large categories. United Way In Gwinnett Area Director Demetrious Jordan will serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the Pinnacle Awards.

"Even in this tough economy, Gwinnett continues to have a vibrant small business sector. Our small businesses employ more than half the county's private work force, create three out of every four jobs, and generate a majority of our innovations," said Gwinnett Chamber President & CEO Jim Maran.

The Pinnacle Small Business Awards are among the Chamber's most prestigious awards. This year's celebration recognizes both emerging companies as well as companies that have exhibited a substantial history as an established business. With the challenges facing small businesses today, this year's awards also focused on the company's response to adversity and service to the community.

The following companies were selected from more than 300 nominations as Gwinnett's Pinnacle Small Business Award Finalists. Each company had exemplary scores based on steady and above average growth and profitability; growth in number of employees; contributions to the community; overcoming adversity; original entrepreneurship and more:

Aaron Plumbing, Inc.
Ace Truck Body & Trailer Repair, Inc.
Advanced Diabetic Solutions
Allgood Pest Solutions
Alternative Apparel
American Painting & Renovations, Inc.
Angela Cain Interiors - Nouveaute'
ASK Staffing, Inc.
Atlanta Flooring Design Centers, Inc.
Atlanta Housing Source At Solid Source Realty
Atlanta Special Events
Bardi Heating & Air, Inc.
Bartimaeus, Inc. & WindowCo
Community Bridge of Atlanta
Cornerstone Financial Partners, LLC
Dan Dunwody, III, DDS
E2E Resources, Inc.
EverDry Roofing
Foresite Group, Inc.
Forms Plus, Inc.
Franzen & Salzano, PC
GiANT Impact
Green Financial Resources, LLC / Roger S. Green
Gwinnett Foot, Ankle & Leg Center
Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates, LLC
HealthCare Partners, Inc.
Hire Dynamics, LLC
Innovative Outdoors, LLC
Integrative Logic
Kart's Landscape Service
Laser Supply & Service, Inc.
Logical Choice Technologies
McClain & Company, PC
McMahan's Sartorial Clothing, Inc.
Mills Floral Company
Premier Immediate Care
ProCare-Prosthetic Care, Inc.
Rocket IT
Rogers Construction Company
Sandler Training
Service Foods, Inc.
Site ROI, Inc.
Sun Technologies, Inc.
Tara Fine Jewelry Company, Inc.
THC, Inc.
The Marketing Workshop, Inc.
The Myers Group
Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC
Vecoma at the Yellow River, Inc.
Veugeler Design Group

The Gwinnett Chamber and Presenting Sponsor AJC will also recognize Gwinnett's non-profit organizations whose generous and inspiring efforts can be seen and felt throughout Gwinnett. Often times, these organizations operate like small businesses, but with unique products and services for the greater good. The top small, medium and large non-profits in Gwinnett will be recognized from the following Pinnacle non-profit finalists who scored high marks in the areas of board of directors strength; staying power; growth in employees/volunteers and budget; innovation of service; response to adversity; and overall contribution to the community:

"Just" People, Inc.
American Cancer Society
Creative Enterprises, Inc.
Good Samaritan Health Center of Gwinnett, Inc.
Goodwill of North Georgia
Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity
Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation
Gwinnett Place Community Improvement District
Hi-Hope Service Center
Hudgens Center for the Arts
LifeLink of Georgia
Northeast Georgia Council, Boy Scouts of America
Rainbow Village Inc.
Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett, Inc.
Turn Around Coaching

Additional sponsors include Platinum Sponsors Delta Community Credit Union, Merrill Lynch – The Cross Group, and Moore Stephens Tiller LLC; Gold Sponsors Gwinnett Business Journal, Logical Choice Technologies, and Sam's Club; Silver Sponsor The Sign Stop; and Bronze Sponsor Brand Banking Company.

For more information, to help sponsor the event, or to register, visit http://www.pinnaclesmallbusinessawards.com/ or contact Melissa Britt at 678-957-4958 or melissa@gwinnettchamber.org. Members and guests may purchase individual tickets for $55 or a table of 10 for $550.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber

Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6^th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship: Grow Your Company by Empowering Leaders

2010-04-12T12:01:00.002-04:00

Empower those around you and those you lead rather than OVERPOWER them." This is the goal that GiANT Impact President & CEO Jeremie Kubicek has for those attending the Metro Atlanta Council For Entrepreneurship's (MACE) second track of workshops. As a MACE strategic partner, GiANT Impact will be presenting the upcoming Leadership & Management track beginning on April 28 from 7:30 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. at the Gwinnett Chamber. The first workshop will feature GiANT Impact COO Linda Sasser who will be discussing how to develop a leadership culture for growth.

Commenting on Linda, Jeremie says that their COO is excellent at celebrating successes and showing empowerment. "Her style is very natural and fun. Her uniqueness comes out in her communication letting people know she is authentic, which is important when empowering and leading others around you."

Linda's enthusiasm for leadership began over 20 years ago as the small business owner of a franchised staffing firm in Austin, Texas. As the business quickly grew, Linda realized that she needed to focus less on the day-to-day demands of the business and more on its long-term success, which depended on her ability to develop leaders within her own organization. Her focus turned to building and leading a top-producing team and resulted in the Austin office growing to become among the top-ranked franchises in the company.

In 2004, Linda sold her small business and moved to Oklahoma City where she joined the franchised staffing firm's parent company. Serving as the franchisor's vice president of sales and marketing, she developed and grew several key programs that helped the company reach a record 1.9 billion in sales during her tenure. In addition to directing the corporation's sales and marketing efforts, Linda served as a frequent speaker at franchisee and client training events on the topics of leadership and team development.

Today Linda's leadership expertise reflects her experiences as both a small business owner and a corporate executive. She maintains leadership is not a technique, position, or title, but rather who you are, and stresses that it is the responsibility of current leaders to coach and develop each new generation. Over the years she has remained resolute in her belief that leadership isn't reserved for top-level executives or those with a title, but is open to anyone in any role with a heart for influencing and serving others.

Empowering others and leading those people to do the same, in the way that Linda does, Jeremie says will lead to growth for companies. "The paradox of overpowering leadership is that a controlling leader actually receives what they are most afraid of, lack of control. An empowering leader on the other hand brings peace, clarity, fun and results through giving control away."

Learn how to empower those you lead and develop a leadership culture for growth for your company at the April 28 MACE workshop. Register online at http://www.atlantaentrepreneurship.com/.

Lessons Learned As Principal for a Day: Principal for a Day Brings Businesses and Schools Together

2010-04-12T11:33:00.002-04:00

"Being a principal is far more today than what it used to be," commented Gwinnett County Public Schools CEO/Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks on a video presented at the December 2009 Principal for a Day Celebration Luncheon. "Just think about what all could happen in a day."

During last year's Principal for a Day, Gwinnett Technical College Executive Director of Institutional Advancement Mary Beth Byerly found out that just about anything can happen when you are a principal and for that reason you must be prepared for anything and everything.

On the morning of Mary Beth's day as principal at Sweetwater Middle School, the school's real principal, Georgann Eaton, armed Mary Beth with a slew of items, and explanations to go along with them, to prepare Mary Beth for her day. Those items included…a radio that is to be kept on at all times, a rather heavy necklace of keys because you never know when you will have to unlock a door, a flash drive because you never know when a student will just have to show you something, a list of emergency numbers just in case, and a name badge with the word of the day inside – the word of the day when Mary Beth served as principal was supplemental angles. And the list goes on…a Blackberry because there is important information that could be coming at any moment and finally, a clipboard because in education you have to have a clipboard. This clipboard also holds a very important piece of information – a calendar, but keep in mind that what is on this calendar may not be on your calendar when you are principal.

During her day as principal, Mary Beth wondered if perhaps she would be handed a pair of roller skates along with the rest of her newly acquired items. "Do I have roller skates, because I think I need them? This has been a busy day from the very beginning," Mary Beth commented midway through her day as principal. "I haven't slowed down and by the look of my calendar on my clipboard I don't think I will."

Being prepared for anything and everything when you are a principal was one of many lessons Mary Beth learned. Above all she, and the over 100 business and community leaders who participated in Principal for a Day, learned that in order to prepare Gwinnett's future workforce, the business community and the school system must work together.

Gwinnett's business and community leaders will again have the chance to experience being principal for a day during American Education Week, November 14 – 20, as the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce hosts Principal for a Day with Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS).

Principal for a Day, a joint venture of the Gwinnett County Board of Education and the Gwinnett Chamber, offers CEO-level business and community leaders the opportunity to get a firsthand, authentic look at the operations of today's schools and the principals who lead them. Those chosen to participate in the program, will experience GCPS's amazing leaders, outstanding teachers, and the sights and sounds of quality teaching and learning.

During American Education Week, a business leader is paired up with the principal at one of the participating Gwinnett County Public Schools, elementary through high school, where the CEO will shadow the principal.

Although Principal for a Day will not be held until November, the selection process is already beginning. If you would like the opportunity be considered for Principal for a Day, please contact Gail Macrenaris at 770-232-8803 or gail@gwinnettchamber.org. As this is a popular program with limited space availability, spots go fast! Sponsorship opportunities are also available.

Nurturing the Spirit of Enterprise

2010-04-12T11:14:00.002-04:00

By: Jim Maran, Gwinnett Chamber President & CEO

When you think about all of the assets that make Gwinnett County great, what do you think of? Solid infrastructure? Good schools and government? Visionary leadership? A safe and prosperous quality of life? A pro-business atmosphere?

These all immediately come to mind and we see every day how we benefit from these assets that are the envy of other communities throughout the United States.

But I believe our greatest asset is our people; especially our entrepreneurs and small business owners. These are the unsung heroes of our success. Without these risk-takers and pioneers, the Chamber and our community would languish in mediocrity.

Often times, it is the massive relocating corporations like NCR that capture the headlines and generate the most buzz in our community. And while we certainly love to land – and all benefit from – these highly visible opportunities, the hidden truth is that it is our home-grown small businesses that create most of our new jobs each year. And it's those same small businesses that make up more than 85 percent of the Chamber's membership. That's why we invest a significant amount of our programming and resources into developing and growing small business.

But there is more to the legacy of Gwinnett's small businesses than job creation.

In my previous career with Motorola, I spent more than 30 years traveling the globe, working with communities and peoples from Asia Pacific and Western Europe to South America and here in the United States. In all of my travels, I can affirm that Gwinnett exemplifies the highest standards for entrepreneurial spirit and energy that exist anywhere in the world.

And the benefits of our people's spirit and energy are enormous. These are the people that built our Chamber – both figuratively and literally. These are the people that made Gwinnett Georgia's most powerful and influential county. These are the risk takers who used their creativity, talents, wealth and hard work to ensure the success for hundreds of community events and nonprofits from the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life to the Hi-Hope Service Center to Rainbow Village and countless others.

On April 23rd, we'll celebrate the best in small business and non-profits at our Pinnacle Small Business Awards Presented by AJC Media Solutions. This is an opportunity to celebrate our community of innovators, entrepreneurs and risk-takers (and their non-profit counterparts) that built the dynamic economy and community we enjoy today.

Nothing characterizes the Gwinnett community and our Chamber better than its small business members. And we have much to learn from them.

In these economic times, we need to do all we can to ensure the spirit of enterprise flourishes throughout the entire community, state, and nation. It is exactly that spirit that is quietly laying the foundation for tomorrow's recovery and our brightest future hopes, dreams and opportunities.

For that, small business owners deserve not only our appreciation and gratitude. They deserve our business.

GWINNETT CHAMBER RECOGNIZES PUBLIC SAFETY PROFESSIONALS AT VALOR AWARDS CEREMONY

2010-03-26T17:05:00.002-04:00

Medal of Valor, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, Public Safety Unit of the Year, Communications Person of the Year and Medal of Merit
Presented

Duluth, GA- To recognize Gwinnett's public safety professionals for helping to strengthen our community, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Presenting Sponsors Entaire Global Companies, Inc., Mobile Communications of Gwinnett, Inc. and Motorola, Inc. presented the fifth annual Valor Awards on March 26, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at the Atlanta Marriott – Gwinnett Place. The keynote speaker at the event was Sergeant Major Billy Waugh, former Green Beret and CIA Operative.

This special reception honored those in public safety by presenting awards to the men and women who have given the most to protect and serve the citizens of Gwinnett. There were six different award categories including the Medal of Valor Award, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, Public Safety Unit of the Year, Communications Person of the Year and Medal of Merit.

The Medal of Merit is awarded to an outstanding public safety program for the community which included personal time given both on and off the job. Duluth Police Department MPO Randy Samuel's Our Creation (OC) program was awarded the Medal of Merit. OC was designed and developed by Officer Samuel to promote positive youth development focused on building the strengths of the individual youth participants to promote the likelihood of a positive outcome in their lives. Officer Samuel partnered with Duluth Middle and High School administrators, juvenile court and DEFACS to identify OC candidates. In 2009, through the OC program, 27 middle and high school students worked together with mentors to address social issues, participate in community service projects, and become involved in local civic activities which all helped to reduce delinquent behavior and increase school and community involvement. Currently, the OC program has a waiting list, which is maintained by the Duluth Middle School guidance counselor.

The Lifesaving Award, given to the public safety person/unit in recognition of acts taken in a life-threatening situation where an individual's life is in jeopardy, either medically or physically, was awarded to Sergeant Stephen Weed, Officer Jami Hollis, Officer Rico Anderson, and Officer Matt Price with the Lilburn Police Department. One of many heroic stories from the Great Flood of 2009 began when these three officers responded to a citizen in distress call. After quickly realizing that she was trapped in her own home by the rising flood waters, Ms. Rush called the Lilburn Police Department and shortly thereafter escaped from her home and climbed onto her roof. Upon arriving on the scene, Commanding Officer Sgt. Weed quickly realized he had to make a life or death decision – allow Ms. Rush to be swept away to her death by the rising flood waters or allow his team to knowingly face imminent danger and attempt to rescue the distressed citizen. During their attempt to rescue Ms. Rush, at some point Officer Hollis became separated from the team and was found some 30 feet away clinging for life to a tree limb. Gwinnett County Fire Rescue Units, along with other city workers, were able to fashion a system of rescue ropes and pull everyone to safety.

The Communications Person/Public Safety Person/Unit of the Year is awarded to those who have performed their job with exceptional skill, expertise, innovation and results.

The Communications Person of the Year was awarded to Communications Officer IV Leslie Leatherwood. According to Officer Leatherwood's nominator, Communications Shift Supervisor Carrie Bennett, Officer Leatherwood is a highly motivated supervisor who is dedicated to making the 911 center the best that it can be. Unprompted, Officer Leatherwood took it upon herself to develop training manuals for police radio, fire radio, and phone training positions. Developing the training manuals took extensive research and over two years to complete. The 911 center has used the manuals for over a year. Due to the center being able to retain better trained employees because of the training manual created by Officer Leatherwood, the communication's department position vacancy rate has been cut in half and the number of employees in training for more than a year has been reduced to zero.

The Public Safety Person of the Year was given to Gwinnett County Police Department Sergeant Edward Restrepo. In May of 2009 Sergeant Restrepo was asked to attend a case meeting regarding a homicide related to a disturbing trend in Gwinnett County involving a significant increase in violent crimes being committed by Dominican males. Based on the information Sergeant Restrepo was able to provide and the fact that traditional investigative methods were not productive, a task force was formed with Sergeant Restrepo as the commander of the task force. Two months into the investigation Sergeant Restrepo and the other task force members had identified members of a Dominican organized crime operation including the identity of the leader and method of operation. The task force resulted in a total of 25 felony arrests in Gwinnett County, New York City, Miami, and other jurisdictions. Due to the success of the operation, the FBI has now joined the public safety effort and is pursuing federal charges on many of these individuals.

The Public Safety Unit of the Year Award was given to the Gwinnett County Fire & Emergency Services Swiftwater Rescue Team. In 2009, the Swiftwater Rescue Team responded to 53 calls specific to the specialty team on top of the regular call volume for fire and emergency services. The year 2009 brought a new level of rescues to the team when the unprecedented rainfall flooded the streets of Gwinnett County. During the Great Flood of 2009, the fire department as a whole responded to over 300 emergency calls related to flooding. Swiftwater crews assisted with 20 major rescue scenes that morning as crews were sent to various areas of the county to combat the rising flood waters and to rescue victims from heavy currents.

The Bronze Medal of Valor is awarded in situations where during the course of an emergency, a public safety official/unit demonstrates extraordinary judgment and performance of his/her/their duties. Officer Carly Davis and Sergeant Jeremy Hicks were awarded the Bronze Medal of Valor because of their actions in response to an armed robbery at a fast food restaurant. The two robbers where armed with a handgun and were holding five people hostage while they robbed the store and each person. Sergeant Hicks and Officer Davis, during the course of the emergency, knowingly exposed themselves to great personal risk in the performance of their duties. They demonstrated extraordinary judgment and performance of their duties in the apprehension of the two armed robbers. They arrived on scene in less than a minute and had one of the robbers in custody in less than two minutes. Their swift action and strategic response allowed for the apprehension of these two individuals who have been linked to numerous armed robberies in the metro Atlanta area as well as in North Carolina.

The Silver Medal of Valor, the second highest award for bravery and heroism, is awarded in situations when a public safety official/unit knowingly exposes himself/herself/themselves to great personal risk in the performance of an official act. The Silver Medal of Valor was awarded to Officer Timothy Frates with Gwinnett County Department of Corrections. In April of 2009, Officer Timothy Frates was supervising his inmate work detail in Lawrenceville. As the work crew was painting over gang related graffiti at the rear of a gasoline station, Officer Frates heard what he thought was an engine back-firing. When he turned to look, he saw four male suspects firing handguns into a car across the street behind a building. Officer Frates immediately announced a "shots fired" call on the radio, requested assistance, secured the inmates on the bus, and then approached the scene. Officer Frates approached the gunman who was firing shots at the car, as three other suspects ran and disappeared around the building. After Officer Frates squared off with the gunman, the gunman ran in front of the office building and into the woods. Officer Frates then secured the scene and rendered aid to the gunshot victim in the car. Officer Frates knowingly and willingly placed himself in harm's way to stop a crime and save a life. He took charge in a life threatening situation and earned the respect and admiration of supervisors and co-workers alike.

The Gold Medal of Valor, the highest award for bravery and heroism, is awarded in cases in which the public safety official/unit knowingly placed his/her/their life/lives in peril of death or serious bodily harm while saving or attempting to save the lives of others. The Gold Medal of Valor was awarded to Gwinnett County Firefighter II Scott Robertson. September 21, 2009 will forever be known as the day of the Great Flood of 2009 in Georgia. For some, it will be a day forever known for one man's courage, bravery, and selfless acts. One such story from the floods, that thankfully has a happy ending, is that of Gwinnett County citizen Diana Farmer and Gwinnett County, Firefighter II Scott Robertson. On the morning of September 21, Diana encountered waters rising quickly and escaped to the roof of her car for safety. Diana had been stranded for 30 minutes prior to the arrival of three fire fighters from the Swiftwater Rescue Team and was doubtful a successful rescue would be made. Positioned down river from his two other team mates who were unsuccessful in launching a rescue boat, Robertson noticed the victim had let go of her vehicle. Robertson entered the treacherous water, and after several life-defying moments, Robertson and the victim were pulled to shore by safety personnel. Diana, the victim who attended the Valor Awards to personally thank Robertson, said that she realizes that Robertson's actions go far beyond saving her life. She credits him as being a "remarkable, courageous person risking his life not for someone he knew, but for a total stranger."

"It is because of the heroic and courageous efforts of Gwinnett's public safety professionals that we are able to live, work and play in a safe community," concluded Demming Bass, vice president of communications and public policy, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber

Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6^th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

GWINNETT CHAMBER TO RECOGNIZE PUBLIC SAFETY PROFESSIONALS AT VALOR AWARDS CEREMONY

2010-03-19T13:29:00.002-04:00

Medal of Valor, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, Public Safety Unit of the Year, Communications Person of the Year and Medal of Merit
to be Presented

Duluth, GA- To recognize Gwinnett's public safety professionals for helping to strengthen our community, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Presenting Sponsors Entaire Global Companies, Inc., Mobile Communications of Gwinnett, Inc., and Motorola will present the fifth annual Valor Awards on March 26, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at The Atlanta Marriott – Gwinnett Place. The keynote speaker at the event will be Sergeant Billy Waugh, former Green Beret and CIA Operative.

This special reception will honor those in public safety by presenting awards to the men and women who have given the most to protect and serve the citizens of Gwinnett. There will be six different award categories including the Medal of Valor Award, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, Public Safety Unit of the Year, Communications Person of the Year and Medal of Merit.

"The Valor Awards ceremony gives us the opportunity to work with citizens and businesses that we normally see at their worst possible times. It gives us the chance to work with these individuals and corporations in a positive way and to be celebrated," said David Dusik, Assistant Fire Chief, Gwinnett County Department of Fire & Emergency Services.

At the Valor Awards, guests will hear stories of heroism that involve officers rendering aid to accident victims and rescuing passengers from burning vehicles with disregard for their own safety. Guests will be moved by stories of bravery where officers put themselves in the line of fire to save the lives of fellow officers and citizens.

In the eyes of Gwinnett's citizens, other deeds are worthy of praise as well, such as local programs that were put into place to educate high school students about the importance of wearing seatbelts and the consequences of a DUI. There are many admirable duties performed above and beyond the call of duty that deserve recognition such as youth mentoring programs and fundraisers for fallen officers and those less fortunate.

Although each act of heroism, bravery, and kindness is no less important than the next, the Great Flood of 2009 and the events and stories surrounding the flood will go down in history books. Due to the magnitude of the event, heroic acts beyond most people's comprehension were performed not only by Gwinnett's Swift Water Rescue Team, but by all of Gwinnett's public safety professionals.

In the early morning hours of September 21, 2009 in a two hour time frame, the 911 Communications Center received 503 calls for service in comparison to a routine day call volume of 30-40 calls for this same time frame. In total on this day, the Communications Center received 5,850 calls for service compared to 2,478 calls for service the day before the storm. In addition, during the Great Flood of 2009, the fire department as a whole responded to over 300 emergency calls related to flooding.

One such story, that thankfully has a happy ending, is that of Gwinnett County citizen Diana Farmer and Gwinnett County Fire & Emergency Services Lieutenant Dominic Aquila, Firefighter II Scott Robertson, and Firefighter III Dale Burney. After three hours of continuous calls related to the flood, the three firefighters arrived on the scene of a woman, Diana, stranded atop her vehicle in the middle of the Yellow River. Diana had been stranded for 30 minutes prior to the crew's arrival and was doubtful a successful rescue would be made. By attending the Valor Awards Ceremony, guests will hear the full details of this heroic story.

Diana, who will be attending the Valor Awards to thank her rescuers, said this of her new found heroes: "I thank God that they were there for me with the skill, strength, and dedication to save my life. I will never be able to thank them enough, but they inspire me to go the extra mile to help others and be grateful for every day I am alive."

As an added highlight to the Valor Awards, Sergeant Major Billy Waugh will be holding a book signing for his most recently published novel, "Isaac Camacho An American Hero," at 11:15 a.m. at the Atlanta Marriott-Gwinnett Place. Books will be available for purchase.

Tickets are still available for those interested in showing their support and appreciation to our local public safety professionals. Tickets are $45 for Chamber members and $55 for non-members. For more information, visit http://www.valorawards.com/. The Valor Awards ceremony will take the place of the March General Membership Meeting.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber
Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6^th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

Executive Roundtable: A Sounding Board for Your Success

2010-02-17T11:08:00.002-05:00

Like most small business owners, it is often times difficult to share some of your challenges with your staff for a variety of reasons. If you look outside your business, how do you know who to trust and who doesn't have a hidden agenda? You need a sounding board, a place where you can talk with non-competing firms who have "been there, done that."

The Gwinnett Chamber's Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship offers a unique sounding board, the Executive Roundtable, for business owners. The Roundtables serve as an exclusive association of dynamic business leaders designed to build business knowledge and increase productivity and profitability. Roundtables are peer group forums for entrepreneurs, executives, and business owners that directly impact an organization's bottom line. The groups offer a confidential sounding board for up-and-coming and small-to-medium sized companies.

"Executive Roundtables are the perfect sounding boards for up-and-coming and small-to-medium sized companies," commented Melissa Britt, program manager, Gwinnett Chamber. "As an added benefit to the Executive Roundtable, membership to the Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship is also included when you join."

On March 31, Gwinnett Chamber small business owners will have the opportunity to get to experience the Executive Roundtables at one of four open Roundtable meetings. The special presentation and roundtable discussion will feature Al Simon of Sandler Training. The presentation, "The Curveball Approach to Managing Salespeople," will give business owners insight on how to get productivity out of your sales team who are up against an anti-selling environment.

"The economy has thrown everyone a curveball," said Simon. "The Executive Roundtable meeting will help you teach your salespeople how to hit a homerun off of what the economy has thrown at them."

Many may ask why focus on the sales people, and not the customer or products. Simon explains that it is important to focus on the sales people in anti-selling environment because people who are managing sales people today have at least one, if not both, of the following situations: 1) if adversely affected by the economy, the sales people are getting 'beat up' on price over and over, and 2) with technology like email and voicemail, prospects hide from open and frank conversations with salespeople so that they can stay in control of the deal. This causes a problem to arise, says Simon, where the sales people have a tough time staying motivated.

"It is very difficult to perform well when you feel you can't gain proactive control. The boss tells them to 'do this and do that,' the prospect won't answer their calls, and they get frustrated," says Simon.

At the meeting Simon will discuss best practices for motivating sales people, how to coach them effectively, and how to understand them in a way that makes it easier and more effective to get them to be productive. After the presentation, attendees will split into different roundtables and discuss best business practices and different issues they will be facing in the year to come.

Join us for the first Executive Roundtable Quarterly event of 2010 by registering at www.atlantaentrepreneurship.com.

To officially join an Executive Roundtable, an application and a confidentiality statement must be submitted. After the application is received, it is reviewed by the facilitators for group placement. The program application fee is $150, which includes membership to the Executive Roundtable and the Council for Entrepreneurship. This is not a leads generating group. For more information on the Executive Roundtable, visit www.atlantaentrepreneurship.com.

Connecting Gwinnett’s Business Leaders with Georgia’s Legislative Delegation

2010-02-17T10:53:00.002-05:00

A historic day was marked on February 25, 2009 when Gwinnett County and the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce were recognized as indispensable contributors to past and future economic development successes of the State of Georgia by a Senate resolution. This special day in Gwinnett County history was also declared Gwinnett Day at the state capitol by the same resolution.

The Gwinnett Chamber will once again hold Gwinnett Day at the Capitol Presented by AT&T on February 24. Following a full day of lobbying for issues important to Gwinnett, the Chamber will wrap up with a reception in the historic "Depot" where the Chamber will host the entire Georgia General Assembly while showcasing the best of Gwinnett. The reception will present a wonderful opportunity for Chamber members and guests to speak with local and statewide representatives to discuss any ongoing legislation.

Last year, the Gwinnett Chamber's first annual Gwinnett Day at the Capitol Presented by AT&T was commemorated by a celebration at the historic Georgia Freight Depot to recognize Gwinnett's state elected officials. The 700 guests, many of whom took the Gwinnett Chamber's shuttle bus from the Chamber to the Depot, enjoyed all things Gwinnett while mixing and mingling with the Georgia Legislative Delegation. The Gwinnett Gladiator's Maximus, Georgia Gwinnett College's General, and Gwinnett Braves' Chopper were there to give guests a warm Gwinnett welcome. Giving everyone a taste of Gwinnett, Gwinnett Technical College's Culinary School, Mellow Mushroom – Lawrenceville, Ashiana's Indian Restaurant and Peterbrooke Chocolatier provided hors d'oeuvres.

Gwinnett Day at the Capitol Presenting Sponsor AT&T's Regional Manager Delores Crowell commented that the Day at the Capitol is a Gwinnett business leader's best opportunity to connect with their legislative representative during the session in an informal setting. "Your elected officials want to hear from you. Your opinions and feedback is not only valued, but it is often a critical factor when considering legislation and its impact on businesses."

Likewise, Senator Don Balfour said that "Gwinnett Day at the Capitol is very important in helping to inform all the legislators about the issues that affect Gwinnett County. This event was very successful last year."

Don't miss this great opportunity to meet one-on-one and discuss the 2010 legislative session with Georgia legislative delegation, the Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors, and fellow business and community leaders.

Register today for Gwinnett Day at the Capitol to reserve your spot on the shuttle bus running from the Chamber building to the Georgia Freight Depot. The shuttle will leave the Gwinnett Chamber at 4:30 p.m. The cost to attend is $45 for Chamber members and $55 for non-Chamber members. RSVP to Natalie Shore at 770-232-8812 or Natalie@gwinnettchamber.org or www.gwinnettdayatthecapitol.com.

An Interview With…Matt Hyatt, President, Rocket IT

2010-02-17T10:44:00.002-05:00

Persistence and dedication are two words to describe Rocket IT's successful climb. Starting his own company at age 25 with little more than an idea and a plan, Matt Hyatt was born to be an entrepreneur. But it wasn't easy.

Sweeping changes in the industry and massive new competition, followed by unpaid collections from his largest customer, left Matt's fledgling company burdened with debt and unable to meet its obligations. Facing possible bankruptcy, Matt moved the company home and completely transformed the way he did business, working for more than a year without salary to repay creditors and to breathe new life into Rocket IT.

Today, Matt and his team have much to celebrate on his company's 15 year anniversary. Since 2002, Matt has grown his technology support company from only himself to nine employees. Rocket IT has enjoyed remarkable growth in a challenging economy, too. In 2009, company revenues grew more than 24 percent and profits grew a whopping 331 percent. Similar past successes brought him recognition last year when he received the Small Business Person of the Year Award for the 1-9 employee category at the Gwinnett Chamber's Pinnacle Small Business Awards.

Matt is a true Gwinnett business success story, and as the General Membership Meeting Presenting Sponsor for the third year as well as a new Gwinnett Chamber Board member, Matt shared with the Chamber how he has achieved such growth while reinvesting resources into Gwinnett to ensure our community continues to thrive.

Creating Jobs & Wealth
Q. Rocket IT has recently gone through an expansion with new employees and new service offerings. What are some of the factors that have enabled Rocket IT to expand in this tough economy?
A. There are a number of factors. Economic conditions have challenged many business managers to move out of their comfort zones and to try new things, including outsourcing IT, which has opened new doors and new opportunities for us. Fortunately, we were prepared for the increased demand. We've built a great team and we have a well-developed system. Perhaps most importantly, we offer a proven service that helps businesses drive dollars to their bottom lines. In this economy, that's a very good thing!

Growing Your Business
Q. As your company celebrates 15 years of being in business, what tools or concepts have been the most useful for growing your organization?
A. Without a doubt, getting outside help has been the single most useful thing I've done to grow Rocket IT. Building on relationships I've established at the Gwinnett Chamber and the Chairman's Club, I've made it a point to take another business or community leader out to lunch almost every day. I've learned a lot just by spending time with really smart people! I've also hired coaches, attended workshops, read books, joined peer advisory groups, prayed, and outsourced things I'm not good at. I can honestly say that hundreds of people have contributed to the success of Rocket IT, and many of those relationships were initiated in the Gwinnett Chamber Chairman's Club.

Q. What role has new technology, such as social media, played in the growth of your company?
A. Great technology is an accelerator, and social media is no exception. Tools like Facebook and LinkedIn have allowed us to connect with our community and to stay in touch with large numbers of people in a short amount of time, and we've certainly benefited from that at Rocket IT. We've used social media tools to get to know the people in our community, to share news and information, even to find and recruit new employees. We're still big believers in one-to-one communication, of course, but social media is a great supplement to traditional communications.

Strengthening the Community
Q. Rocket IT recently hosted students from the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology (GSMST) for a job shadow event. How do you feel this benefited the students as well as your organization? Why do you feel it is important to reinvest in the community?
A. Yes, about a dozen students from GSMST visited recently. It was a lot of fun! They spent some time shadowing Wendy Frank and Eric Henderson, two important members of my team. I also shared the story of Rocket IT and how I came to be an entrepreneur. I think we were successful in giving the students a taste of the amount of work and determination required to build a great business, and how important an education is to success. We were honored that the school selected Rocket IT for a visit and we'd jump at the chance to do it again.

We enjoy being an active participant in our community, and we all have a vested interest in helping that community thrive. Our families, employees, and customers are here, after all. Besides, there's a certain sense of fulfillment that comes from helping people. It feels really good to help others succeed.

Jobs, Small Business Growth, Mobility Top Chamber’s 2010 Priorities

2010-02-17T09:57:00.002-05:00

By: Jim Maran, President & CEO, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

Under the leadership of Chairman Bartow Morgan of Brand Bank, the Gwinnett Chamber's top 2010 priorities are a renewed focus on attracting and keeping high-wage jobs; attracting and growing high-growth entrepreneurial firms and small businesses; and securing critical funds to address the region's and state's transportation crisis.

In today's economic climate it's no surprise that the Gwinnett Chamber's top priority is to increase efforts nationally and abroad to attract high-wage jobs through our Partnership Gwinnett Economic and Community Development Strategy. We will continue efforts to target businesses in the nation's "Rustbelt" communities as well as Europe and Asia including groundbreaking new marketing efforts targeting the emerging industry cluster of "Digital Entertainment." We already have an enviable record of success in economic development where we were recently the only community in the nation to recruit two Fortune 500 global headquarters in less than a year (NCR from Ohio and Asbury Automotive from New York). Gwinnett has also led the state in job creation since 2000 and, despite the current recession, more than 115 companies expanded or relocated in Gwinnett since Partnership Gwinnett's launch in 2007 resulting in more than 6,000 new jobs.

A second priority is strengthening Gwinnett and the region's network, culture and resources for entrepreneurs and small businesses through new programs like our Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship. Since its launch a year ago, the council has already assisted more than 1,000 entrepreneurs in developing their leadership, sales, financial and strategic planning resources. The Chamber also hosted more than 350 business development events attracting a record 35,000 participants in 2009. Small businesses account for 85 percent of our membership, 97.9 percent of all the businesses in Georgia, and employ 46.7 percent of the state's non-farm, private sector workers. They are the heart of our Chamber and our nation's workforce.

The third priority for the Gwinnett Chamber is to relieve traffic congestion. Since the end of last year's legislative session, the Gwinnett Chamber has been working behind the scenes with leaders in the House and Senate, Georgians for Better Transportation and GDOT to work with lawmakers to secure new funding for all modes of transportation. Due in large part to those quiet negotiations, there is for the first time a consensus among the House, Senate, and the Governor to get funding legislation passed. More than 85 percent of Gwinnett-based CEOs and entrepreneurs have told the Chamber in business retention and expansion interviews that transportation is the number one obstacle to their future growth in Georgia. It is time to remove that obstacle and get Georgia moving again.

Creating wealth through job creation. Growing our local businesses and entrepreneurs. Strengthening our community by reducing traffic congestion. These are just three ways the Gwinnett Chamber will be working for the citizens and businesses of Gwinnett and Metro Atlanta in 2010.

Valor Awards: Celebrating Gwinnett’s Public Safety Professionals

2010-02-17T09:42:00.002-05:00

In celebration of the men and women who protect and serve our county by always being prepared, the Gwinnett Chamber and Presenting Sponsor Mobile Communications of Gwinnett, Inc. will host the Valor Awards on March 26, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at The Atlanta Marriott – Gwinnett Place. The keynote speaker at the event will be Sergeant Major Billy Waugh, Green Beret and CIA Operative. This special reception will honor those in public safety by presenting awards to the men and women who have given the most to protect and serve the citizens of Gwinnett. The program will feature the presentation of the Purple Heart Award, Lifesaving Award, Public Safety Person of the Year, Public Safety Unit of the Year, Communications Person of the Year, Medal of Merit and the Medal of Valor.

In honor of the fifth anniversary of the Gwinnett Chamber's Valor Awards, there are five very good reasons why you should attend this year's ceremony, including:

Number One: Because Gwinnett's first responders are there for us when we need them.
For Mobile Communications of Gwinnett's Cathy Nichols, the Valor Awards gives her the chance to give back to Gwinnett's first responders. "We take for granted that when we dial 911 if a child is hurt or a house is on fire or there has been a car accident that our first responders will be there…every time."

Nichols, who serves on the Valor Awards Steering Committee, noted that too often, we forget to thank this group and the Valor Awards allows us the opportunity to pay tribute to a few of these local heroes.

Number Two: For all the little things that our public safety professionals do to keep our community safe that oftentimes go unnoticed.

Duluth Police Department Lieutenant Bill Stevens, who also serves on the Valor Awards Steering Committee, reminds us of many incidents that go on every day all over our county without the public ever seeing their public safety officers' efforts.

"Take for instance the icy conditions we experienced in early January," said Lt. Stevens. "On days like that, we have both fire and police vehicles on the roads early in the mornings ensuring patches of ice don't become death traps. On the fire side, engine companies check on home-bound individuals making sure they are safe and warm."

Other acts can be seen on a daily basis from the law enforcement community, Lt. Stevens added, including everything from officers changing tires on cars to training adults on how to put a child passenger safety seat in their vehicle to correcting safety hazards on roadside construction. "Incidents, such as when the Duluth Police Department found an elderly gentleman wondering around the city who could not remember who he was or where he lived, often go unnoticed. One of our officers was able to locate the man's family three hours away and provided personal funds for a meal until his family arrived. The Valor Awards gives the community a chance to thank public safety professionals however small or large the heroic act."

Number Three: They put themselves in the line of fire to protect us.
Valor Awards Steering Committee Member and Gwinnett County Police Officer Major Mindy Bayreuther's fondest memories of the Valor Awards was last year when the Gold Medal of Valor was awarded to Gwinnett County Police Department Officer James Huth and the Purple Heart Award was given to Corporal William Hoch and Sgt. Michael McKeithan. "All three officers, who put themselves in the line of fire while serving an arrest warrant, received a standing ovation at the ceremony. Although the officers will tell you that they were just doing their jobs, they performed extraordinary acts of bravery and heroism. The Valor Awards gives the officers the opportunity to be recognized by the community for their huge sacrifices."

Number Four: The business community and public safety professionals must work together to keep our community safe.
Major Mindy Bayreuther also commented that the Valor Awards reinforces the importance of working together to keep our community safe. "We need each other. The citizens are our eyes and ears. They are an important piece of the puzzle providing crucial information that leads to arrests of criminals that otherwise would be on the streets."

Valor Awards Steering Committee member and Gwinnett County Assistant Fire Chief David Dusik added that working together creates a better educated public that is proactive to safety instead of being reactionary.

Number Five: To simply say, "Thank you."
Amazed by the stories of Gwinnett's men and women in uniform, Nichols said that you often hear these men and women say that they 'didn't have to think about it' or 'it's just what I do.' "The Valor Awards gives the community the opportunity to see the sacrifices that our police, fire, sheriff, dispatch and EMS personnel make for us every day and thank them."

An excellent way to show your appreciation to these dedicated men and women is to sponsor a table at the Valor Awards. Sponsorships allow public safety professionals and families of those nominated for awards to attend the luncheon. Your company will be recognized in the awards program and the table will be reserved for the honorees in your company's name.

Join the Chamber and Presenting Sponsor Mobile Communications of Gwinnett in saying 'thank you' to Gwinnett's public safety professionals. For more information on sponsorships or to register for the Valor Awards, contact Nicole Wright at 770-232- 8816 or Nicole@gwinnettchamber.org or visit www.valorawards.com.

ATLANTA GAS LIGHT PRESIDENT SUZANNE SITHERWOOD TO PRESENT AT GLOW: GWINNETT’S LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATION FOR WOMEN

2010-02-11T17:10:00.003-05:00

February 19 Breakfast to Feature Presentation from Sitherwood on "Hard Hats and High Heels: Women in Leadership"

Duluth, GA- Gwinnett Chamber members and guests will have the opportunity to take a peek in to Atlanta Gas Light President Suzanne Sitherwood's closet full of suits, heels, purses, hard hats and uniforms as she presents "Hard Hats and High Heels: Women in Leadership" at the February 19 GLOW: Gwinnett's Leadership Organization for Women meeting Presented by Gwinnett Medical Center. The event will be held at 7:45 a.m. at Sugarloaf Country Club

If onewere to take a look in Sitherwood's closet, her wardrobe would show that women can do it all! While you'll find the expected power suits, stilettos and purses in Sitherwood's closet, you will also find a few items that might surprise you, including a hard hat and a uniform. These would be from her early days at Atlanta Gas Light Company. In 1980, when Suzanne joined Atlanta Gas Light, her first job was working out of one of the gas trucks doing maintenance. Working in a man's world is nothing new for Sitherwood, especially considering her childhood where she grew up on military bases in a world full of aircraft carriers and tanks. Now as one of the state's most dynamic executives, she is not only leading the company where she has worked for 30 years, but she is also the first woman to chair the Georgia Chamber of Commerce in its 100-year history.

Sitherwood is diligently leading the way during a time where women make up almost half of the labor force and still represent fewer than 16 percent of directorships andthreethree percent of chief executive officers in Fortune 500 companies. Fortunately, Sitherwood and many of the women leading the way through these rarely chartered waters are more than willing to open their closet doors and share what they've learned from their voyage with all of us.

"This seminar is a great chance to hear and learn from a woman who is leading the way in a male-dominated industry," commented Nicole Wright, program manager, Gwinnett Chamber. "Backed by her tremendous experience, Sitherwood will discuss how to reach new heights and attain leadership positions."

Those interested in the February 19 meeting are encouraged to visit GLOW's blog and write about some of the items that may be found in their closet that has led them to their current success. "Every woman has a story of how they have achieved success," said Wright. "Whether you got your start from humble beginnings or achieved overnight success, we would like to hear your story."

The cost to attend the breakfast is $35 for Chamber members and $45 for non-Chamber members. All no-shows will be billed. Walk-ins are not guaranteed a seat. To RSVP, please contact Nicole Wright at 770-232-8816; e-mail nicole@gwinnettchamber.org; or visit www.gwinnettchamber.org/glowregistration.

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Named one of the top three large chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

GWINNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSION CHAIRMAN CHARLES BANNISTER TO KEYNOTE THE ANNUAL STATE OF THE COUNTY ADDRESS

2010-02-09T09:37:00.002-05:00

Chairman Bannister to Give Community's Outlook at February 10 Joint Meeting

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and the Council for Quality Growth will be hosting Gwinnett County Board of Commission Chairman Charles Bannister and the Board of Commissioners for the annual State of the County Address Presented by Comcast and SKANSKA on February 10, 2010 at 11:30 a.m. at the Gwinnett Center. Attendees will have the chance to hear the Chairman's vision and plan for the county in 2010 and get an update on the County's efforts in economic development, revitalization, public safety and transportation. The Chairman will also show how the county is working to improve the overall quality of life for Gwinnett citizens.

"Gwinnett County continues to lead the region in infrastructure development, quality of life and economic development. I look forward to Chairman Bannister's outlook as he leads Gwinnett to a robust and prosperous 2010," said Michael Paris, president and CEO, Council for Quality Growth.

2009 was a year with a manifold of economic and revenue issues affecting personal, private and public entities. Gwinnett County, its cities and the State of Georgia are still weathering this complicated fiscal storm. At the address, members and guests will have the opportunity to hear from Chairman Bannister on how Gwinnett County has proactively managed the enormous, historic economic challenges by forming the citizen-led initiative, Engage Gwinnett: Citizens Committee for the Future of Gwinnett County. Attendees will also hear about the adoption of the final 2009 millage rate by the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners, which represents an increase of 2.28 mills to fund much needed services including libraries, parks and public safety. Don't miss this exclusive opportunity as Chairman Bannister reviews the County's 2009 achievements and lays out his vision for 2010 and beyond.

"Gwinnett County is in an exciting time with a future that is promising and hopeful. The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners is working hard to create and maintain prosperity," said Jim Maran, president and CEO, Gwinnett Chamber.

"We are pleased to welcome and hear Chairman Bannister speak at the State of the County Address."

For more information on the State of the County Address, visit www.gwinnettstateofthecounty.com.

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About the Gwinnett Chamber

Named one of the top three metro chambers in the United States by ACCE, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's membership varies from FORTUNE 1,000 companies to innovative startups, and stretches across the Atlanta region, from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport to UGA in Athens. Representing more than 7,200 members from more than 2,500 firms, the Gwinnett Chamber is the Southeast's 6^th largest chamber and focuses on creating and growing quality job opportunities while enhancing the community's quality of life.

About the Council for Quality Growth

The Council for Quality Growth works to ensure continued growth and economic success for generations to come by providing advocacy, information and education to its members. The Committed to the mission of promoting balanced and responsible growth, the Council is proactively involved in the formulation of policy and legislation critical to the growth and development industry. The Council addresses, head-on, strategic economic planning, infrastructure needs and tough quality-of-life issues throughout the metro Atlanta region and state.

GWINNETT CHAMBER HONORS OUTSTANDING CITIZENS AND ORGANIZATIONS AT ITS 62ND ANNUAL DINNER

2010-02-05T14:02:00.002-05:00

Public Service, Legacy, Hudgens and Citizen of the Year Awards Presented at Awards Ceremony

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce will celebrate Gwinnett's finest citizens, as well as a record-breaking year for the Gwinnett Chamber, on February 5 at the 62nd Annual Dinner Presented by Gwinnett Medical Center, beginning at 6:00 p.m. The Annual Dinner, to be held at the Thomas P. Hughes Grand Ballroom at Gwinnett Center, will highlight Gwinnett's success and honor those who have made a difference in our community.

"The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce's 62^nd Annual Dinner is a time of reflection, celebration, and most importantly, a time of recognition of those who keep Gwinnett's future shining bright," says Jim Maran, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce President and CEO.

The 2009 Chair Kerry Armstrong and 2010 Chair Bartow Morgan will join Maran in recognizing the outstanding contributions of several Gwinnett pacesetters who continually give of themselves to ensure that success lives in our community. The Gwinnett Chamber will also honor the 2009 Board of Directors, recognize newly appointed directors, and give several prestigious awards to Gwinnett's pacesetters.

Yesterday, Ambassador Service Awards were presented to Al Brown with CoverYou.com Group, LLC and Martin Birkbeck with American Family Insurance
for their outstanding commitment, dedication and service to the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. The Gwinnett Chamber is pleased to announce that Martin Birkbeck will be named the Gwinnett Chamber's 2009 Ambassador of the Year.

The five Public Service Awards will be presented to Jay Eun, Golden Stella, Inc..; Berney Kirkland, chief of staff, Gwinnett County Public Schools; Dr. Daniel J. Kaufman, president, Georgia Gwinnett College; Philip R. Wolf, president, Gwinnett Medical Center; and Jock Connell, former Gwinnett County administrator. These awards are given to individuals who have gone above and beyond over the years in their service to the community and its residents.

The Legacy Award, honoring the memory and legacy of an individual who has made a difference in the history and progress of Gwinnett County, will be awarded posthumously to the life of Wayne Shackelford. The award will be given to Wayne's wife, Anna Shackelford. With a photographic memory, brilliant mind, and booming voice, Shackelford crafted a successful career that included serving as Gwinnett County's top administrator in the 1970's as well as in the private sector, shaping Atlanta landmarks like Phipps Plaza. Wayne became commissioner of the Georgia Department of Transportation in 1991 and served in that role until mid-2000. He received global accolades for guiding the department's preparation for the 1996 Olympics and was instrumental in the creation of the Department's Transportation Management Center and the new I-85/316 interchange in Gwinnett, both named in his honor.

"Wayne was a true leader and one of the most amazing visionary and courageous men many of us have every known," reflects Maran. "While he blessed us with him many talents, we were the ones that were truly blessed by having known him these many years. Wayne is one of the few rare souls that left a significant legacy for the public and countless memories for those of us in private that will be remembered for generations to come."

This year's D. Scott Hudgens Award will be presented to the The IMPACT! Group. Accepting the award on behalf of the The IMPACT! Group will be The IMPACT! Group President Tom Merkel. The award is given in honor of Scott Hudgens, a respected developer and philanthropist who unselfishly gave of his time and talents to ensure that many others, especially those with limited means, would benefit from his treasure. The IMPACT! Group's work is more critical today than at anytime since its creation in 1992 by the Gwinnett Coalition of Health and Human Services. Formed to create and preserve quality, affordable housing as well as provide an emergency shelter program in Gwinnett, The IMPACT! Group focuses on three areas including transitional housing, home ownership, and serving low and moderate income residents by developing affordable housing units through The IMPACT! Real Estate Division. In 2009 alone, The IMPACT! Group provided housing to over 5,000 Gwinnett County families, which equates to over 12,300 people. Current projections call for those numbers to continue to rise with over 6,000 families and 17,700 people expecting to receive their services in 2010.

Dr. Manfred Sandler, partner, Cardiovascular Group P.C., will receive the prestigious Citizen of the Year Award. This year's Citizen of the Year comes to us from Johannesburg, South Africa. Dr. Sandler first called Gwinnett home in July 1994 and has never looked back. He is a partner of the prestigious Cardiovascular Group P.C. Since 1994, he has served in many leadership roles within the Gwinnett Hospital System. He has embraced the Gwinnett community and currently serves as vice chairman on the Gwinnett Hospital System Board and on the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee. It was during his initial 10 years of practicing Cardiology in Gwinnett and metro Atlanta that he and his colleagues realized the need for a full service cardiac facility in Gwinnett. This would save countless lives and provide treatment to thousands of Gwinnettians in the future. Dr. Sandler embraced this challenge and served as the physician's champion, leading Gwinnett Medical Center's effort to attain the certificate of need for Open Heart services. Thanks to Dr. Sandler's tireless efforts and solid community support, approximately 18 months after the initial filing, with the withdrawal of all opposing hospitals, the Department of Community Health ruled in favor of Gwinnett Medical Center and we're now preparing for Open Heart Services in Gwinnett. Because of Dr. Sandler's actions in both the operating room and in society, countless lives throughout our community will be saved and have a better quality of life. Because of his leadership and the aforementioned accomplishments he is truly worthy of the Gwinnett Chamber's 2010 Citizen of the Year.

"Leaders such as Wayne Shackelford have blazed the trail to success and the end result has been a Gwinnett that is one of the most innovative, diverse and dynamic communities in the nation. Through the strength and vitality of leaders like Jay Eun, Berney Kirkland, Dr. Daniel J. Kaufman, Philip R. Wolf, Jock Connell, Tom Merkel, and Dr. Manfred Sandler our community continues to flourish, so that people from every race, religion, culture, and creed can call Gwinnett home," says Maran.

For more information on the Annual Dinner, contact Alicia Krogh at 770-232-8809 or alicia@gwinnettchamber.org.

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Gwinnett Chamber Launches 2010 Legislative Action Agenda

2010-01-14T14:44:00.004-05:00

Click here to view the Legislative Kickoff video news release

Gwinnett Chamber Leadership and Friends:

As we get the 2010 Georgia Legislative Session underway, our public policy team will be launching innovative new ways to keep the business community and elected officials updated on the Gwinnett Chamber's priorities.

Our new Government Relations Site (http://www.gwinnettgovernmentrelations.com/) includes a video news release on the Chamber's efforts to improve transportation, ensure long-term water resources, support flexibility for educational funds and more, including insight from House Transportation Vice Chair Donna Sheldon, House Education Chairman Brooks Coleman, House Chairman of Industrial Relations Mike Coan, and Senate Chairwoman for Government Oversight Renee Unterman.

You'll also find our full Legislative Agenda here. Please take a moment to see all the areas we are working to support our public and private partners in the areas of infrastructure, education and workforce, small business and economic development, and quality of life.

Stay up-to-date with our Legislative Blog and updates on Twitter.

Finally, see who your lawmaker is and contact them here.

We will also link to some invaluable state and federal legislative information from our great partners at the Georgia Chamber and US Chamber, respectively, as well as partners at Georgians for Better Transportation , Get Georgia Moving, and the Atlanta Regional Commission. Thanks for all of your help in assisting the Gwinnett Chamber in making our County, the Metro Atlanta and Georgia Innovation Crescent regions, and the State of Georgia the world-class communities that will help us continue to attract the NCRs of the world

Demming Bass
Vice President of Communications and Public Policy
Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

Georgia House of Representatives Majority Leader Jerry Keen Speaks at the Gwinnett Chamber's Legislative Luncheon

2009-12-14T14:33:00.002-05:00

Keen to Discuss Key Issues, Including Water, Education, Transportation and Economic Development, at the December 16 Legislative Luncheon Presented by Rocket IT

Duluth, GA- The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce and Presenting Sponsor Rocket IT will be hosting Georgia House of Representatives Majority Leader Jerry Keen for the annual Legislative Luncheon on December 16 at 11:30 a.m. at the Atlanta Marriott-Gwinnett Place. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear important issues that the Gwinnett Chamber will help to address in order to continue a prosperous business environment. The issues discussed will include water, education, transportation and economic development.

"The Legislative Luncheon is a great opportunity for our members to hear an influential voice on the issues that will affect our business climate the most in the upcoming year," said Jim Maran, Gwinnett Chamber president and CEO. "The Gwinnett Chamber wants to help serve as our members' voice while advocating to our elected officials."

House Majority Leader Jerry Keen was unanimously elected to be the first Republican House Majority Leader in over 130 years in 2004. He just completed his fourth term and running for his fifth representing House District 179 in Glynn County. He has authored legislation to eliminate state income tax on capital gains and provide state income tax credits for private donations of green space property to qualified land trusts. He played a major role in passing tort reform, the Voter ID bill and the Women's Right to Know bill. Keen serves on the Rules, Appropriations, Ethics, Insurance, Energy, Utilities and Telecommunication committees. Georgia Trend Magazine named him one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians.

General Membership meetings are held once a month providing an opportunity for Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce members to stay abreast of important issues in Gwinnett, network with other business professionals and have a chance to listen to renowned speakers from all types of industries.

5 Ways to Grow During Down Times

2009-12-09T11:16:00.002-05:00

What business owner does not want to try and grow their business? Some might say it can not be done right now due to the recession we are still in. Roger W. Reak of StratAlli would disagree though. Reak spoke at the GiANT Impact Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship (MACE) this morning about "5 ways to grow during down times."

If you missed it, don't worry because you can still catch the cliff notes version...

1) Commit to Change
Change is not as scary and intimidating as people think. A common reaction with the topic of change is to simply shrug it off and say "why change? We have always done it this way." Or some say "I can't try to change anything now, I'm trying to hold onto the clients and services that I have now in this bad economy."

The truth is a bad economy actually can help to present new lines, customers and employees, geographical expansion, inventory purchases, potential company acquisition and streamlining the organization. Just to name a few.

First, YOU have to change your attitude and get enthusiastic by becoming the company's biggest cheerleader. Second, commit to innovation, improvement and growth. John Wooden, a former coach at UCLA once said, "Don't confuse activity with progress."

2) Plan and Get Help
Reak recommends companies have a strategic outlook over a tactical one. He suggested that companies create a one page living strategic and business plan. This will provide focus and force companies to set extremely specific goals. Make sure to get help from everybody around you and then be sure to educate all the employees on the details of the priorities set before them.

Find out how your business is different than your competition. Reak says "be different in a way that matters to your customers." He also believes that a business expert and/or consultant can provide an outsider's view that can help provide valuable guidance.

Reak believes that a major problem with small businesses is they think like small businesses. Instead, develop an advisory board. This can help to spread the pressure of the company around while gaining important insights and other perspectives.

3) Get Your Finances In Order
A must do is establish your financial stability ad funding for growth. First, you must honestly asses your current status. Then, question every expenditure and decide if it is a worthy cost. Next, maintain a cash flow plan with and without additional financing and stick to it.

4) Improve Your Organization
The big word to remember under this tip is SIMPLIFY. Most businesses are overly complicated because they believe that is the best way to do business, it's not. Start simplifying your organization by having fewer layers, streamline all your systems and focus on your primary business function and outsource non-core functions, such as human resources and legal.

Train every employee on the business plan and strategies, products and services, procedures, responsibilities, importance of innovation, etc. Make sure to establish accountability with all employees by providing incentives, raises and promotions based on specific performance of personal business plan goals. Also, start empowering your employees by shifting some responsibility for elements of the company plan onto them.

5) Market and Sell
This is probably one of the biggest ways to help grown in a down economy. First, develop a marketing plan aimed at your target client. Then make sure you have a consistent message on all marketing materials (social media, Web site, brochures, etc.).

Take advantage of the free social media available today. Creating a Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter an blog accounts is a great way to spread your message to an enormous amount of people without costing money.

Selling, obviously, is the way to grow a business during any time of the economy. So, train all employees to be able to sell your products/services. Always have something to leave behind to a potential client. Make sure that all employees are enthusiastic.

So, do you think you have all of the tools to be even more successful and really grow your company despite the economy? If you have any more questions feel free to contact Roger W. Reak at rogerreak@iib.es or at 770-689-6261.

Sorry you missed out, on this great event! To learn more about MACE and other exciting events, so you are not missing out again, visit www.atlantaentrepreneurship.com.

GLOW: Gwinnett's Leadership Organization for Women---Helping Gwinnett Women Walk Tall

2009-12-02T10:28:00.002-05:00

Women of Gwinnett have a reason to walk tall, and it's not just because of their great shoes. According to the Center for Women's Research the majority of women-owned businesses increased by 42 percent from 1997-2006. Women in management, professional and related occupations now account for 50.6 percent of the total population. A third of women believe that being a woman is beneficial to their business success. So now is the perfect time to celebrate being a woman and Gwinnett's Leadership Organization for Women (GLOW) is the perfect way to help put an extra bounce in your step.

"GLOW empowers women by giving them the opportunity to come together as one and talk about what we face in life," said Wendy Frank of Rocket IT. "As crazy as the world is today we lose touch with what is right and wrong and having GLOW is a big help to getting us back on track."

The organization was created in August of 2008 as a way to bring professional women together in a relaxed space. GLOW has a focus on six areas of interest to women in business, finance, communication, leadership, life-balance, marketing and innovation.

"The scene is already set for empowering women and you can unabashedly talk about balancing motherhood and work or just gush over where to find good shoes," said Amy Bray of Andersen, Tate & Carr, PC. "The folks that attend GLOW seem genuinely interested in meeting new people, in a laid back way."

GLOW is not your ordinary networking event. Every meeting has a different topic and speaker so that you walk away having learned something and having met new people. "I love all the GLOW events, I was able to input something from all the speakers and use it in my business to grow," said Cynthia King of Sam's Club. "GLOW helps me to stay focused on all my goals and achievements for my business. Having other women in business to talk to allows us to feed off each other's thoughts and solutions."

"I attend GLOW for two reasons --- to be a part of a leading organization for women and it's a comfort to be able to sit down with other women and talk about what we face in the workforce from climbing the corporate ladder to having a baby and learning to balance our life," said Frank.

GLOW speakers come from diverse backgrounds and fields, bringing unique knowledge and wisdom. "Speaking at GLOW was an amazing experience. The women involved are engaging and enthusiastic, hungry to embrace new information and eager to help each other succeed," said Paige Havens of Spitfire Media Group.

Other speakers have included Kelly Greer with Tillman, Allen, Greer, LLC; Wendy Kinney, creator of the Ready...Set...Go Make Money networking methodology; Dr. Beverly Scott with Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority; and Dr. Jennifer B. Kahnweiler, author of The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength.

The success of GLOW can be attributed not only to the amazing line-up of speakers but also to supporters such as Gwinnett Medical Center. "Gwinnett Medical Center has been the proud presenting sponsor of GLOW for the past two year because of the direct impact it makes to the target audience we want to reach. Women make 95 percent of the health care decisions in their household and that means we want them to know about the quality of care provided in their backyard," said Andrea Wehrmann of Gwinnett Medical Center. "The benefits we have seen from GLOW are dynamic and overwhelming. From networking, to community support, to new friendships and word of mouth efforts, GLOW helps GMC continue to prosper in spreading the latest and greatest about what we offer the community."

GLOW was created in an effort to cultivate and empower this important segment of the economy. The Gwinnett Chamber and Partnership Gwinnett developed strategies to raise awareness about small business support services and resources for women in business while working to more effectively integrate the female population into leadership positions in the public and private sectors.

"GLOW is helping women to achieve in their inner personal and professional lives," said Wehrmann. "This group of women that encompasses GLOW are the movers and shakers in Gwinnett County and we are proud to serve this group each year. Also, GLOW empowers women by helping them to define their individual success not society's success. GLOW gives women the chance to sit back, relax, find empowerment and then get up and kick butt!"

For more information about this exciting initiative designed to advance women in the workplace and the community, contact Nicole Wright at 770-232-8816 or at nicole@gwinnettchamber.org or visit www.glowgwinnett.ocm. We hope you will join us as we "learn, laugh, network and leave glowing!"

AT&T Connecting People with Their World

2009-12-02T10:15:00.002-05:00

AT&T's vision is to connect people with their world; everywhere they live and work, and do it better than anyone else. AT&T is bringing it all together for their customers by driving innovation in the communications and entertainment industry and consistently demonstrating a passionate commitment to customer care.

For more than a century, AT&T has provided reliable, high-quality products and services. They work with peer organizations to provide technology solutions to a wide variety of customers. Firms like Cisco, for example, may provide the additional equipment and technical support required to meet the needs of a customer while companies like Georgia Power will work with AT&T's construction engineers in establishing placement on power and telephone poles throughout the county.

AT&T Regional Manager and Gwinnett Chamber Vice Chair of Marketing and Communications Delores Crowell commented that AT&T also believes in strengthening the communities where they live and work by providing good jobs. "We donate our time and talents, and support programs, such as the Gwinnett Chamber's Government Relations program, that create economic opportunity including local education and economic development projects throughout Gwinnett County."

"The Gwinnett Chamber helps AT&T to promote our brand throughout the county by delivering best-in-class events, supporting smart public policy initiatives and providing access to key decision makers," said Crowell. "In addition, the Chamber's staff and leadership are always looking for new opportunities for its members and often seek feedback for improvement."

Crowell's favorite Chamber event is the Success Lives Here Business Leadership Series. "I believe that the true measurement of an effective chamber is their ability to provide high quality events and services and also educate and inspire their members on a variety of topics and subjects. I am able to find this at the Gwinnett Chamber through programs like Success Lives Here."

With the Gwinnett Chamber's Legislative Kick-off fast approaching in January and as presenting sponsor of the Kick-off and number of other Government Relations programs, Crowell also noted that the Chamber's Government Relations efforts are the best in the state. "Participation is important because of their reputation both locally and across the country, the Gwinnett Chamber always has a significant presence of elected and public officials at meetings and events," said Crowell. "The high participation levels are the result of planning, execution and also because these political leaders realize that we have a lot of public support from key business leaders. They seek out our advice and support on critical issues that impact the county."

Offering a piece of advice to fellow Chamber members, Crowell said that it is important to identify your firm's strengths and commit to develop the areas that need improvements. 'This is the only way to measure success. You must be honest about where you are today, before you can establish a plan for the future."

Visit www.att.com for more information.

62nd Gwinnett Chamber Annual Dinner, A Celebration of Gwinnett's Success

2009-12-02T09:57:00.002-05:00

A Year Marked by the launch of the region's first comprehensive entrepreneurial development initiative, the Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship, the successful completion of the second full year of the Partnership Gwinnett Economic and Community Development Strategy, the recruitment of two Fortune 500 global headquarters Asbury Automotive and NCR, and the hosting of the first Gwinnett Day at the Capitol are just a few of the many Chamber and community accomplishments that Kerry Armstrong, senior vice president, Duke Realty Corporation and Gwinnett Chamber 2009 Chair, looks back on as the highlights of a phenomenal year.

"Other accomplishments, such as the creation of the Diversity-Supplier Forum and the Meet the Purchasers Forum, the announcement of more than 115 relocated or expanded companies in Gwinnett, and the initiation for Gwinnett County to become a Certified Work Ready Community, have helped Gwinnett to reach new levels of success," said Armstrong. "Also, the continuous growth, and the prominence and effectiveness of our Chamber, not only regionally, but nationally is worthy of celebration as well."

On February 5th, the community will have the opportunity to commemorate the successes of 2009 and the people who made it possible at the 62nd Annual Dinner Presented by Gwinnett Medical Center. The Dinner will serve as a celebration of the people of Gwinnett, who by their service, volunteerism and commitment, allowed Gwinnett to reach new heights and set goals to strive for in the future.

"Gwinnett's most visionary leaders are honored at The Chamber's Annual Dinner for all they do to benefit our community. Their work is reflected in Gwinnett County's impeccable education, health care services, business environment and government, which is the reason that Gwinnett County is the envy of so many communities, not just in Georgia, but throughout the region," said Philip Wolfe, president and CEO of Gwinnett Medical Center.

Looking towards the future, Bartow Morgan, CEO and chairman, Brand Banking Company, and Gwinnett Chamber chair-elect, commented that in "2010 the Chamber will continue to thrive as the place for leaders in commerce, education, health care and government to work together to build an even higher quality of life in our community."

"Our economic development efforts, centered in our highly successful Partnership Gwinnett initiative, will continue to advance our mission of job growth and wealth creation, education and workforce excellence, quality of life enhancement and marketing and outreach," said Morgan. "Though economic conditions will clearly challenge our community and our nation in the coming year, the Chamber and its members will build upon Gwinnett's strong foundation and remain committed to finding solutions for continued success."

The black-tie optional spectacular serves as an opportunity for more than 1,000 of Gwinnett's finest to celebrate those that have made significant contributions to enhance our quality of life, make Gwinnett a better place to live, improve our education, medical and public service communities.

Join us in recognizing several Gwinett pacesetters. The highlight of the gala will include presentations of Citizen of the Year, Outstanding Public Service, and Ambassador of the Year honors, and the presentation of the D. Scott Hudgens Humanitarian Award to the charitable institution best embodying the spirit of compassion and generosity to which Hudgens was so deeply committed. Held at the Thomas P. Hughes Grand Ballroom at Gwinnett Center, on February 5th, the cocktail reception will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a 7:30 p.m. dinner.

Now is the time to get involved with the 62nd Annual Dinner. Members wishing to learn more about sponsorship opportunities or to register for this event should contact Alicia Krogh at 770-232-8809 or alicia@gwinnettchamber.org or visit www.gwinnettannualdinner.com.

GLOW Panel to Show Women Business Executives How to Care For Mind, Body and Image

2009-12-02T09:38:00.002-05:00

Gwinnett's Leadership Organization for Women's December 4 Panel to Feature an Image Consultant, Nutritionist and a Fitness Consultant

Duluth, GA- Women need to take time to relax, network and learn how they can take care of the person that is usually on the bottom of their to do list- themselves. Join the Gwinnett Chamber's Gwinnett's Leadership Organization for Women, GLOW, and Presenting Sponsor Gwinnett Medical Center for a panel discussion of "I Don't Sweat...I GLOW" on December 4 for the opportunity to get pampered while learning how to take care of your body. The event, held at The 1818 Club, will begin at 7:15 a.m. with networking and a breakfast buffet followed by the panel discussion at 8:15 a.m.

"This is for all of the multi-tasking modern day superheroes who navigate the hurtles of the business world as well as their personal lives in 3" pumps, a pencil skirt and a matching handbag fondly known as the 'black hole,'" said Nicole Wright, program manager. "To all of my women who do it all without breaking a sweat because we all know we don't sweat...we GLOW...this event is for you!"

The event will feature a diverse panel on how to take care of your body. The panelists will include Sarah Hathorn from Illustra Image Consulting, Connie Jeon of Elements Diet & Fitness and Althea Lawton-Thompson from Aerobics, Yoga & More Fitness Studios. The panel will feature a 40-minute open discussion where attendees will have the opportunity to ask any and all questions about the important details on how to take care of themselves inside and out.

The cost to attend is $35 for Chamber members and $45 for non-Chamber members. All no-shows will be billed. Walk-ins are not guaranteed a seat. To register, please contact Nicole Wright at 770-232-8816 or nicole@gwinnettchamber.org. To register online, visit www.gwinnettchabmer.org/glowregistration.

The mission of GLOW is to assist in the success of business women within the community. The series helps women to become more competitive in the business arena, establish a network of business contacts and address areas of personal and professional growth, by learning from accomplished women who are making an impact. The program creates and fosters an environment where women can gather and openly address the unique challenges women face in today's business environment.

A Record Year Despite the Challenges

2009-11-30T16:48:00.002-05:00

As we head into the holiday season and wrap up 2009, there are many achievements that we at the Gwinnett Chamber are thankful for. Most importantly we are thankful for you, our members, whose countless volunteer hours and continued financial support have helped your Chamber and Gwinnett make some very impressive headlines in 2009. I wanted to share some of our highlights with you.

For starters, thanks to Partnership Gwinnett's Economic and Community Development Strategy, we shocked the world by becoming the only community in the U.S. to recruit two Fortune 500 Corporate Headquarters in less than a year: NCR from Ohio and Asbury Automotive from New York. These were just the highest profile project wins from more than 115 expansions and relocation's yielding 6,200 jobs since the launch of Partnership Gwinnett in 2007. Successful recruiting trips to Asia and Europe and our historic partnership with the State to attract businesses from the Gaming and Digital Entertainment clusters have earned us honors and recognition in Georgia and abroad. Our brand has never been stronger, thus positioning us for even stronger long-term, high-way job creation.

To ensure Gwinnett and the Metro Atlanta region remain strong, we also successfully lobbied for a number of legislative actions to strengthen our community. These included enhancing statewide tax credit incentives for strategic industries that allowed us to attract NCR and reauthorizing tax allocation districts to revitalize blighted neighborhoods in southern Gwinnett. We rallied business community support to pressure Emory and Piedmont Hospitals to drop their lawsuits against Gwinnett Medical Center's open heart surgery program, thus saving countless lives. To support education, we launched mentoring programs in middle schools for at-risk students; helped secure more than $500,000 in grants for the creation of a Bio Science Career Path (with lab equipment) in our high schools; and expanded work-based apprenticeship programs in Gwinnett County Public Schools and Gwinnett Technical College. Encouraging our public partners to invest in a strong quality of life creates an environment that stimulates job creation.

To help our members grow their businesses and be as competitive as possible in today's challenging market conditions, we hosted a record 320 networking and business development events attended by more than 35,000 participants this year. We also launched the region's first comprehensive entrepreneurial development initiative, the Metro Atlanta Council for Entrepreneurship, attracting more growth companies that collectively employ 2,765 people with aggregate revenues of $690 million. Our Diversity Supplier Forums directly assisted 37 minority ad women-owned business owners in obtaining contracts from government agencies and private employers. And more than 500 new companies joined the Chamber in 2009, meaning greater partnership opportunities for you.

The Chamber's goals are simple. Creating jobs and wealth. Strengthening our communities. Growing your business. With your support, successes in these areas will remain strong in 2010 and beyond. Happy Holidays.

By Jim Maran

Chairman's Club: Better Than Publicity, It's Fulfilling Rewards

2009-11-30T16:05:00.002-05:00

Matt Hyatt, president of Rocket IT, feels the Chairman's Club provides a unique opportunity to meet community leaders and build valuable relationships, among many other benefits.

"Since becoming a member of the Chairman's Club in 2006, I've met hundreds of other business and government leaders. I've developed strong business relationships with many of these people, and I now count some of them among my closest friends," said Hyatt.

Another Chairman's Club member, Lee Machen of Executive Advisor Group, LLC, believes that "undoubtedly being a Chairman's Club member has become one of my primary avenues for building successful business relationships. In the end, the friendships that are built naturally lead to mutual business opportunities."

Building beneficial relationships is not the only major reward of Chairman's Club membership. "Rocket IT has enjoyed wide exposure in Gwinnett, building brand awareness and good will that just is not possible anywhere else," said Hyatt. "In my opinion, there is no better business-to-business networking opportunity in Gwinnett County."

When asked for advice to other members, Matt Hyatt responded with, "I'd say that participation, contribution and consistency are the keys to success."

Hyatt believes "the members that pour their time and attention into their community month after month, year after year, are the ones that tend to enjoy the highest rewards."

Is your business ready for fulfilling rewards? Then be a proactive leader in the Chamber's efforts to build and sustain a prosperous community. To set up an appointment, contact Vince DeSilva, vice president of membership services at 678-474-1703 or vince@gwinnettchamber.org.

Chairman's Club members know that they make a critical difference in determining the future course of the business environment by becoming a key player at the table when decision are made. The financial contribution of $5,000 or more has a direct benefit on pro-business initiatives that will continue to foster a welcoming climate for industry growth in the county. Join with this group and a leader committed to the future of Gwinnett.

Sponsorship Opportunities: "Expose Yourself" With The Chamber

2009-11-30T15:53:00.002-05:00

Expose yourself...come on, let it all show! In today's economic climate it is a must. Businesses everywhere are having to try even harder in order to get their name out to potential clients. It is such a daunting task to many companies that the pain of how to succeed scares them from even trying.

No need to be afraid when you are a member of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. "We are here to help you expose yourself to all of Gwinnett and the greater metro Atlanta area," said Vince DeSilva, vice president of member services. "When the economy slides it is crucial for companies to market themselves better than ever before. Sponsorships are a great way to do this in a cost-effective way while reaching a highly influential audience."

As an added benefit, when companies align themselves with the Gwinnett Chamber by sponsoring programs and services, they are conveying to the community that they are a reputable company, according to independent research from the Schapiro Group. This research study shows that when respondents were told that a particular small business was a member of its local chamber, they were 44 percent more likely to rate it favorably than study respondents who were not told of the chamber affiliation. Respondents were also 63 percent more likely to want to purchase goods or services from a small business that is a chamber member.

The results show that being active in the local chamber of commerce is a good strategy for businesses to use in communicating important company traits too. The report revealed that statistically, it is an effective way to convey to consumers that a company uses good business practices, is involved in the community, cares about customers and is reputable- regardless of whatever they may or may not already think about the company.

Many of Gwinnett's business leaders have already caught on to what the Schapiro Group is reporting. Companies and organizations such as Gwinnett Medical Center, Rocket IT, AT&T, Georgia Power Company, Merrill Lynch- The Cross Group, The PrivateBank, SCANA Energy, Peterbrooke Chocolatier, Cakes by Shupan & LaFavor, Etc., are aligning themselves with the Gwinnett Chamber and exposing their companies to Gwinnett and metro Atlanta by sponsoring a variety of programs and services.

Chamber members are provided with plenty of opportunities throughout the year to showcase their companies. Sponsorships develop during the year that will place your company in front of decision makers all across the area, and for a price that will fit almost any budget. By partnering with the Gwinnett Chamber in your company's marketing, public relations and advertising plans, your company will have access to a broad array of potential clients that your competition will not have.

If you would like to be notified of new opportunities to expose your company, please e-mail Vince DeSilva, vice president of membership services, at vince@gwinnettchamber.org with your preferences.

Industry Spotlight: WIKA Instrumental Corporation Measures Up in Gwinnett

2009-11-30T15:44:00.002-05:00

For over 60 years, WIKA has continued to globally advance pressure gauge, sensor and temperature instrumentation technology. WIKA Instrument Corporation, located in Gwinnett County, has served as the WIKA USA subsidiary for over 40 years.

WIKA believes manufacturing and logistics are important to Gwinnett's local economy because their production facility keeps jobs in the community. WIKA's facility in Gwinnett County is doing something positive to sustain a local manufacturing presence in spite of a national decline. Michael Gerster, president of WIKA states, "A good and solid manufacturing base is the backbone for the local economy. We are part of the DNA which builds strong communities."

WIKA works with other Gwinnett County companies to increase training opportunities for its employees and uses many local companies for maintenance and business services. WIKA employees have been enthusiastic participants in the Gwinnett Corporate Challenge for several years now.

Gerster reported that his company experienced the benefits of being involved in the community and with the Chamber in July 2004, when WIKA had a fire in the middle of the day which disabled 50 percent of their plant. "Without the support and influence of the Gwinnett Chamber, WKIA would have lost two to three days of production."

WIKA has been nominated for "Georgia Manufacturer of the Year" in 2006, 2007 and in 2008 by the Gwinnett Chamber and Gwinnett Technical College. WIKA was also recently recognized at the chamber's "Manufacturing Appreciation Breakfast".

According to Gerster, "WIKA's leading business principle is to understand any outcome we accomplish is the result of a process. If we don't like the result, it is the process that needs to change. We encourage people to ask why the process did not give us the desired results and develop corrective action." WIKA requires continuous improvement training for all employees to find solutions to fix "what" went wrong and not "who" is wrong.

For more information on WIKA, visit www. wika.com.

Gwinnett Chamber Public Policy: It’s All about Jobs for 2010

2009-11-16T15:53:00.000-05:00

2010 is high-wage jobs. For the coming year, it will be all about getting other successful companies like NCR to locate and expand in Gwinnett to improve the business climate and quality of life for the County and the region. Gwinnett Chamber members and guests will have the chance to get a preview of the legislative session at the Annual Legislative Luncheon
Presented by Rocket IT on December 16 at the Atlanta Marriott-Gwinnett Place at 11:30 a.m.
The luncheon, featuring Georgia House of Representatives Speaker Glenn Richardson, will be the first opportunity for Chamber members to learn about the key issues, which include water, education, transportation and economic development, that the Gwinnett Chamber will address to ensure a healthy business climate.

“The Gwinnett Chamber is constantly working to improve our County and region at the legislative level so that we can bring more companies like NCR to Gwinnett which provide
high-wage jobs,” said Demming Bass, Gwinnett Chamber vice president of communications and public policy. “The pro-business legislation that the Chamber advocates helps all companies to grow and become more successful.”

The Gwinnett Chamber puts together a number of high profile events prior to and during the legislative session in an effort to communicate the business community’s message. Following the December 16th Legislative Luncheon, the Chamber will officially begin the session with the Legislative Kick-off Presented by AT&T on January 7 at 6 p.m. at The 1818 Club. The Kick-off, which is held to educate the legislative delegation on our 2010 priorities, presents a great opportunity to personally thank and spend quality time with the County and region’s senators and representatives.

The Gwinnett Chamber will also once again hold Gwinnett Day at the Capitol Presented by AT&T on February 25. Following a full day of lobbying for issues important to Gwinnett,
the Chamber will wrap up with a reception in the historic “Depot” where the Chamber will host the entire Georgia General Assembly while showcasing the best of Gwinnett.

“The Gwinnett Chamber serves as your voice, advocating on your behalf to our elected officials,” said Bass.

During the legislative session and at each of these events, the Gwinnett Chamber will be advocating for water, transportation, education and economic development, which were identified as key concerns from the Chamber’s 7,200 members as well as from feedback received
from more than 2,500 residents, business, and community leaders during the research phase of
Partnership Gwinnett, the community’s public private initiative, led by the Chamber.

“The Chamber’s efforts to secure a new, dedicated revenue stream for transportation projects ended in a road block in 2009. Looking forward to 2010, we will focus on getting this conversation started again,” said Bass. “Coming back from the Strategic
Leadership Visit in Denver, we learned a lot of important lessons on how a transportation plan can be successfully structured and implemented. We look forward to applying those lessons here.”

The Gwinnett Chamber is actively involved in a number of groups working to ensure the long-term availability of water in the region. Through its involvement with these groups and from what the Gwinnett Chamber is hearing from the business community, it is vital for Gwinnett to secure future water supplies, despite difficult budget challenges and improved drought conditions.

“The Gwinnett Chamber will continue to support the necessary funding for the Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Plan and the raising of the Conservation Pool of Lake Lanier two feet from 1071 to 1073 in order to increase water storage for droughts,” said Bass.

And finally, in order to ensure a qualified workforce for the region, Georgia must continue to make the necessary investments in our educational infrastructure. “With a tough economic climate expected to persist into 2010 no one argues that the State will continue to have to make difficult budget cuts,” said Bass. “However, we will urge legislators not to cut investments in k-12 public schools, our technical colleges and university system at a time when they are growing and needed more than ever.”

Be sure to mark your calendar for these important events. Also, visit the Gwinnett Chamber Government Relations Web site, www.gwinnettgovernmentrelations.com, for the latest developments. Whether as a sponsor or an attendee to any of these events, you’ll add your voice to our efforts to ensure the public policy decisions our leaders make today will continue to have a positive impact on our community by bringing high-wage jobs to Gwinnett and the region.