 |  | 
|  |
| |  |  | 
| | | (JENNIFER BROCK/www.northfulton.com)
Kelli Buchwald, (left) president of the Johns Creek Business Association, chats with Judy Pulley, of Johns Creek Dental Care, at the JCBA meeting Jan. 15.
(click for larger version) | | January 23, 2008 JOHNS CREEK -- In business, sometimes it's all about who you know.
Twelve years ago, a few members the Johns Creek Business Association were meeting in the Kroger at Medlock Bridge and McGinnis Ferry roads.
But through word of mouth and as businesses and the city itself continue to thrive, the organization has grown to more than 117 members.
"It's been a tremendous asset," said Robin Grier, a member of the JCBA since 2001. "In an economy the way it is, it's great to have this."
Amid music, food and cocktails, the JCBA kicked off its 2008 meeting Jan. 15, looking to launch a few new programs and expand others.
This year, the JCBA will publish the first official Johns Creek City Guide, which will be available to members and the public.
The guide, set to publish in April, will serve as a reference guide to area businesses.
"We're excited about it," said Brian Botkin, who discussed the City Guide at the meeting. "Johns Creek is growing significantly and there are new businesses every day."
Besides the guide, the JCBA is looking to expand its scholarship program, available to members and their children.
Bev Miller, a JCBA member, announced three scholarships for high schoolers, college students or adult continuing education.
"We're really pleased to be offering this," said Miller.
The organization is comprised of owners and employees of the business community from Johns Creek, Suwanee, Alpharetta, Duluth and Norcross.
One of the major goals of the JCBA is to provide a means of joining local businesses to give back to the community, according to Kelli Buchwald, the newly appointed president of the JCBA.
Another goal of the JCBA for 2008 is to expand their meetings with the Johns Creek Healthcare Association, The Forsyth Chamber of Commerce and the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce.
"The JCBA has gotten to be a big group of friends," said Buchwald. "Our pure mission is to facilitate networking and to promote business."
The Johns Creek Business Association meets on the third Tuesday of each month from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For more information, visit www.johnscreekba.com.
- www.northfulton.com
|