The Times wants to know about new management hires and promotions, major awards and other newsworthy accomplishments involving local businesses. We'll publish the information each Sunday on the Business page and gainesvilletimes.com. Send information, including photos and contact information, to news@gainesvilletimes.com; please put Newsmakers in the subject line. You also may use regular mail at Newsmakers, The Times, P.O. Box 838, Gainesville, GA 30503.
Note: An earlier version of this story included an incorrect date for the opening of the Olive Garden restaurant.
Chamber to offer small business seminar Tuesday
The Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce will offer a seminar for small-business owners Tuesday.
Small Business Success Seminar is set for 7:45-9 a.m. at the Chamber office, 230 E.E. Butler Parkway in Gainesville.
"A Brand Apart" will be presented by Wyngate Drive Creative Communications. Jamie Reynolds and Elizabeth Carswell will discuss proven methods and creative tools small businesses can use to better communicate and market their business.
Small business seminars are free for Chamber members, $15 for guests, and cover a wide variety of issues and subjects of interest. To reserve a spot, contact Jean McCullough at 770-532-6206, jean@ghcc.com, or visit greaterhall chamber.com.
Manager chosen for Olive Garden in Gainesville
Olive Garden Italian Restaurant has appointed Buford resident Winston Williams as general manager of the new Gainesville restaurant at 1175 Dawsonville Highway, scheduled to open June 20.
"Winston will ensure each and every guest enjoys their dining experience at our new Gainesville restaurant," said Dan Kiernan, executive vice president of operations for Olive Garden. "His track record of operational excellence makes him a great leader for our restaurant's service and culinary teams."
Williams has been with Olive Garden for seven years, most recently as general manager of the restaurant in Dunwoody.
"I'm very excited about the opportunity to lead the Gainesville restaurant and a great team of people at Olive Garden," he said. "Each of our team members is focused on providing excellent service while treating everyone as family and friends."
Olive Garden is now accepting applications for employment at the new restaurant. Those interested should apply in person between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Sunday; phone, 770-534-3530.
Olive Garden operates more than 750 restaurants and is a division of Darden Restaurants Inc., the world's largest company-owned and operated full-service restaurant company.