Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce Archives - Page 7 of 13

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ribbon Cutting for the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, GA

December 3, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ribbon Cutting for the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, GA

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ATL Developments with Geoff Smith: Ribbon Cutting for the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, GA

On this special edition of ATL Developments, North Fulton Business RadioX® host John Ray broadcast live from the ribbon cutting of the new Assurance Financial office in Roswell, led by Geoff Smith. John interviewed several key Assurance Financial executives who attended the celebration as well as real estate agents who came to support Geoff. The turnout was amazing, and Geoff was so busy that John and Geoff didn’t get to have a conversation until the next day by phone! Congratulations to Geoff and the rest of the Assurance Financial team on the new Roswell office!

Regular episodes of ATL Developments with Geoff Smith are broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Kenny Hodges, President & CEO, Assurance Financial

Kenny Hodges is the President and CEO of Assurance Financial. After working with Wells Fargo for seven years out of college, he founded Assurance Financial in 2001 and has grown the company to over 20 branch offices supported by two operations centers. He is a licensed mortgage banker through the National Mortgage Licensing System Registry and has 27 years of mortgage lending experience. Kenny earned a B.S. in Entrepreneurship Management from Louisiana Tech University where he was elected to serve as the Student Government Association President. He is an active member of the Mortgage Bankers Association and the Louisiana Mortgage Lenders Association where he is a past Board President. He is a member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO) Louisiana and is a past Chapter Chair. Kenny currently serves on the Louisiana Tech University College of Business Dean’s Advisory Board. Kenny is married with three children and resides in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.

Clavis Smith

Clavis entered the mortgage business in 1989 and has held numerous positions in mortgage origination and sales production before moving exclusively into sales leadership in 2014. He joined Assurance Financial in 2018 as the Eastern Regional Sales Manager. His experience in retail mortgage production provides great guidance and support to branch leaders and loan production personnel. Clavis is also very active in both state and national Mortgage Banker’s Associations advocating on issues to support the industry. He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and currently resides in Glen Allen, VA with his wife. He has four children and one grandchild, and enjoys fishing on the Chesapeake Bay or playing tennis and golf in his spare time.

Chris Bartelski, Realtor and Educator

Chris’ passion for helping his wonderful clients find their home comes from his family house. Filled with 2 energetic boys, 2 cats, and a dog, it’s everything he ever wanted. It’s a gift that he will never take for granted. Using his experience as a marketer and associate broker, his purpose is to help you find your happy.

Website | LinkedIn

Damian Cook, Atlanta Branch Manager, Assurance Financial

Damian Cook is a Branch Manager and Loan Officer in the Atlanta Branch of Assurance Financial. Recognized for outstanding service, Damian has helped more than 775 clients become homeowners. Over 95% of borrowers who participated in a survey gave Assurance Financial the highest satisfaction rating. 100% of those rated Damian Cook’s attention to detail and customer service excellence as their primary reasons for the high satisfaction rating.

A native Georgian, Damian is involved with several organizations; he is as an active member of Dunwoody Baptist Church, Committee Chair of Young Life Perimeter North, and a volunteer of the Atlanta Food Bank. Damian enjoys CrossFit and traveling and spending time with his wife and three children. He graduated from the University of Alabama and received his master’s degree from Mercer University.

Damian is a recipient of the 2013, 2014 and 2015 Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia Gold Award, and the 2016 Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia Platinum Award. He is licensed with the Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System and Registry in the state of Georgia.

Michael Hernandez, The Hernandez Group

Michael & Roxie joined the Atlanta Board of Realtors in July of 1995. Roxie immediately began helping buyers and sellers with their real estate needs, earning “Rookie of the Year” while Michael finalized the sale of his family business.

In 1998, Michael joined Roxie forming the Hernandez Group. They have since added a full-time Team Coordinator, several agents specializing in buyer representation, a full-time Business Development Department and a Multi-Lingual Agent, further improving the level of service they provide their clients.

The Hernandez Group is dedicated to building relationships and committed to providing the highest level of customer service that is embodied by all in their office. They take the extra steps necessary to fully grasp their clients’ needs: whether it’s buying or selling their first home, downsizing from their estate home, starting an investment portfolio with rental property, giving advice such as whether to build onto their current home or move to a larger home or looking for land to build their perfect home.

When you work with the Hernandez Group you get the full service and attention their highly qualified team believes you deserve.The Hernandez Group specializes in: Single Family Homes, Luxury Homes, Estate Sales, Condo/Townhomes, Lease Purchase Programs, New Construction, Relocation (In/Out of Georgia), Investment/Rental Properties,1031 Tax Free Exchanges & Self-directed IRA’s.

Geoff Smith, Host of ATL Developments with Geoff Smith

ATL Developments with Geoff Smith covers all things economic development in the Atlanta Metro area. From everything inside the Beltline to Avalon and beyond, Geoff Smith interviews the movers and shakers making the ATL one of the best places to live, work and play. An archive of past episodes can be found here.

Geoff Smith is a mortgage banker with Assurance Financial working with Real Estate agents and homebuyers to help them get happily to their closing table. Geoff is an authority on the latest economic development trends shaping the Atlanta Metro area. His interviews reveal an inside perspective at how things get done in the ATL.

Geoff is an active member of his community serving on the Board of Directors of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce, as well as holding the position of chairman for the Chamber’s Education Committee. He is also Secretary of the Roswell Youth Baseball Association and coaches his sons in football, baseball and basketball. Geoff enjoys golf, camping and traveling with his wife and two sons. He is a graduate of the University of Georgia.

Hans Meier, Hans Wooden Puzzles

December 3, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

Hans Meier, Hans Wooden Puzzles

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Hans Meier, Hans Wooden Puzzles (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 415)

Recorded during a remote broadcast from the Ribbon Cutting of the new Assurance Financial office led by Geoff Smith, Hans Meier, Hans Wooden Puzzles, and host John Ray had a “mic test” which turned into a brief and fun conversation. Hans and John discussed the Pro Alliance meeting at the Greater North Fulton Chamber and the “Rudolph Awards” which Hans passes out at Pro Alliance during the holidays. They also celebrated Geoff, his new Assurance Financial branch, and how Geoff goes out of his way to use Chamber members. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Hans Meier, Owner, Hans Wooden Puzzles

Hans creates custom wooden puzzles 3-D (Animals, Dogs, Cats, Horse and etc), puzzles flat, solving puzzles, and wooden cutouts. He is a world-renowned woodworker who specializes in scroll saw work. Prior to the pandemic, he was selling the bulk of his items at craft shows during the Spring, Summer, and Fall. He is currently selling at the Lakewood 400 Antique Mall the third weekend of every month.

He also creates custom wood gifts for business customers.

Hans is now involved as a volunteer making canes for Canes for Heroes. CFH donates canes and walking sticks at no charge to veterans throughout the country

Hans Wooden Puzzles website | Canes for Heroes website | Donate to Canes for Heroes

North Fulton Business Radio is hosted by John Ray, and broadcast and produced from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta. You can find the full archive of shows by following this link. The show is available on all the major podcast apps, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, Amazon, iHeart Radio, Stitcher, TuneIn, and others.

Renasant Bank has humble roots, starting in 1904 as a $100,000 bank in a Lee County, Mississippi, bakery. Since then, Renasant has grown to become one of the Southeast’s strongest financial institutions with over $13 billion in assets and more than 190 banking, lending, wealth management and financial services offices in Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, Georgia and Florida. All of Renasant’s success stems from each of their banker’s commitment to investing in their communities as a way of better understanding the people they serve. At Renasant Bank, they understand you because they work and live alongside you every day.

Special thanks to A&S Culinary Concepts for their support of this edition of North Fulton Business Radio. A&S Culinary Concepts, based in Johns Creek, is an award-winning culinary studio, celebrated for corporate catering, corporate team building, Big Green Egg Boot Camps, and private group events. They also provide oven-ready, cooked from scratch meals to go they call “Let Us Cook for You.” To see their menus and events, go to their website or call 678-336-9196.

The GNFCC 2021 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners

November 18, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The GNFCC 2021 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners

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The GNFCC 2021 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners: Linda Coyle, LGE Community Credit Union, Amy Bell, Goodwyn Mills & Cawood, and Holly Ranney, Sunshine on a Ranney Day (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 69)

This episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider celebrates three recipients of the GNFCC 2021 Women INfluencing Business Awards. Linda Coyle of LGE Community Credit Union is the 2021 Business Woman of Excellence Award Winner. Linda was joined by Amy Bell with Goodwyn Mills & Cawood, who was the Rising Star Award Winner, and Holly Ranney, Sunshine on a Ranney Day, who was awarded the Nonprofit Woman of Excellence Award. They each shared with host Kali Boatright a bit about their journey, how they encourage other women, lessons they’ve learned along the way, and much more. Congratulations to these Women INfluencing Business award winners! The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

2021 Business Woman of Excellence Award Winner

Linda Coyle, Business Development Officer, LGE Community Credit Union

After beginning her career in teaching, Linda decided to leave teaching and get into the business world. She met an LGE employee at a networking event and that led to her position in Business Development at LGE Community Credit Union.

In 1951, seven Lockheed Georgia employees dreamed of a better way to bank and LGE Community Credit Union was born.

Today they serve communities in Northwest Georgia as a not-for-profit financial institution. Unlike a bank, whose profits go to its shareholders, its profits go to its members in the form of better rates and lower fees. They are guided by a strong commitment to providing a better financial future for their members.

They are a not-for-profit, member-owned financial institution with a strong commitment to the local community. LGE is governed by a volunteer board of directors who are also members of the credit union.

Company website | LinkedIn

2021 Rising Star Award Winner

Amy Bell, Vice Present, Georgia Architecture, Goodwyn Mills & Cawood

**Amy Bell, Vice Present, Georgia Architecture for Goodwyn Mills & Cawood**

Over the years, architect Amy Bell has contributed numerous award-winning designs to GMC’s education design portfolio, in addition to managing complex commercial and municipal projects throughout the Southeast. Her leadership in Alabama led her to transfer to Atlanta, where she now leads our Georgia architecture team. Most importantly, Amy has developed a reputation for delivering the highest quality service and design leadership to her clients by maintaining involvement in every phase of their project to fully achieve their vision.

She plays a key role in the architectural division, however, her influence spans throughout the company through leadership of several firm-wide initiatives, committees and community outreach programs. While at Auburn University, Amy was selected to participate in the School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture’s Rural Studio-an off-campus design-build program that provides architecture students a hands-on educational experience while assisting an underserved population in West Alabama’s Black Belt region-and to study under program co-founder Samuel Mockbee.

It was during this time, while restoring an old, burned-out schoolhouse, that she developed a strong passion for educational design that has greatly influenced her professional design philosophy.

Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) is one of the largest architecture and engineering firms in the Southeast, with offices located throughout Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Tennessee. Whether designing schools, parks, hospitals and other commercial developments or providing clean water, safe streets and restoring resilient environments, GMC takes great pride in serving our communities through the transformative work we do.

Every project is guided by the foundational concept that communities are built by people, not companies, and we strive to serve our communities with quality, integrity, creativity and care. One of the Southeast’s most comprehensive multi-disciplined firms, GMC is equipped to provide all the services associated with architecture, interior design, civil engineering, environmental services, landscape architecture, planning, transportation engineering, geotechnical engineering, electrical engineering, surveying and disaster recovery.

Company website | LinkedIn

2021 Nonprofit Woman of Excellence Award

Holly Ranney, President and Co-Founder, Sunshine on a Ranney Day

In 2012, inspired by a church sermon, Peter and Holly Ranney found their calling to use their God-given talents and resources to help others. Sunshine on a Ranney Day was created with the idea that every child should have their own unique space. Sunshine on a Ranney Day’s first makeover was completed for 11-year-old Mathew, who wanted to spend his last days in his military-themed bunker bedroom. Mathew’s makeover and passing showed how impactful a makeover could be on a child’s life. This experience helped shape Sunshine on a Ranney Day into what it is today.

Continuing to use their networks and resources, in 2020 the Sunny & Ranney Home Furnishings & Decor store opened in Roswell, GA. Sunny & Ranney carries donated excess stock, samples, and discontinued furniture and decor from wholesalers, retailers, designers, and market showrooms. All of the profits from the sales go toward funding Sunshine on a Ranney Day’s mission and our plan to expand to further areas.

Sunshine on a Ranney Day is a nonprofit organization that reimagines and builds custom rooms for children with special needs. Through partnerships and donors, we provide no-cost wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, dream bedrooms, and in-home therapy rooms.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) and is hosted by Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC. The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions, and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision-makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on other GNFCC events such as this North Fulton Mayors Appreciation Lunch, follow this link.

For the complete show archive of GNFCC 400 Insider, go to GNFCC400Insider.com. The GNFCC 400 Insider is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

GNFCC is Moving! – An Interview with CEO Kali Boatright, Chair Lindsey Petrini and Treasurer Jim Teel, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

October 21, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

GNFCC is Moving! - An Interview with CEO Kali Boatright, Chair Lindsey Petrini and Treasurer Jim Teel, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

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GNFCC is Moving! – An Interview with CEO Kali Boatright, Chair Lindsey Petrini and Treasurer Jim Teel, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 400)

The Greater North Fulton Chamber (GNFCC) just announced an early 2022 move to the 10000 Building at Avalon. Lindsey Petrini, GNFCC’s 2021 Chair, Jim Teel, 2021 Treasurer, and GNFCC CEO Kali Boatright joined host John Ray to discuss the move, how it positions the Chamber to continue its record growth, the valued association with the North Fulton CID, and much more. North Fulton Business Radio is broadcast from the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX® inside Renasant Bank in Alpharetta.

Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

The mission of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is to be the recognized leader in its region for business growth, talent development and regional prosperity.

The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, nonprofit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1,200 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals. Its service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

Website | LinkedIn

Kali Boatright, President and CEO, GNFCC

Kali Boatright joined the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce as President and CEO in 2018. As an expert in nonprofit management and a proven leader in organizational growth and strategy execution, she is most proud of her history of growing individuals on her team and collaboration with similar mission-driven organizations. Prior to taking the helm at GNFCC, she served as the CEO of the Douglas County Chamber of Commerce from 2004-2018 and before that as Chief Operating Officer of the Golden Key International Honour Society.

Boatright is a graduate of the US Chamber’s Institute for Organizational Management and is a Georgia Certified Chamber Executive. In addition, she serves as chair of the Georgia Chamber Federation on the Georgia Chamber Board of Directors, as an executive board member of the Regional Business Coalition, as a board member of Tech Alpharetta and as past Chair of the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

In 2017, Boatright was honored by the chamber industry when she received the Georgia Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives Legacy Award. As the association’s most prestigious award, it recognizes long-term executives who have excelled over a period of years in leading and innovatively building their Chamber. The award is based on the demonstration of excellence in areas of chamber leadership, organizational management, service to the profession, community reputation/involvement, and personal attributes.

Kali is a graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism. She and her high school sweetheart David have recently become empty nesters with their oldest adulting ITP and only their youngest, a sophomore at Georgia Tech, remaining on payroll. David is a Chemistry Teacher at Cambridge HS in Alpharetta, Georgia.

Lindsey Petrini, 2021 GNFCC Chair and Chief Operating Officer, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital

**Lindsey Petrini, Chairman, GNFCC and Chief Operating Officer, Wellstar North Fulton Hospital**

Lindsey Petrini is the Chief Operating Officer of WellStar North Fulton Hospital. WellStar North Fulton Hospital is a 202-bed facility located in Roswell, Georgia.

The hospital is recognized for its accredited cancer program, trauma and primary stroke center designations, and for providing a continuum of services through its centers and programs, including neurosciences, pain management, cardiology, women’s services, rehabilitation, surgical services, and oncology. For more information click here.

Jim Teel, 2021 GNFCC Treasurer and Regional VP, Georgia, Goodwyn Mills Cawood

**Jim Teel, Treasurer, GNFCC and Regional VP, Georgia, Goodwyn Mills Cawood**

Jim spent the early years of his career on the construction side of the industry, managing more than $120 million worth of construction projects and $150 million worth of pre-construction services. He shifted from construction to the design sector of the industry upon joining GMC as part of the business development team. His ability to develop relationships and fully grasp clients’ needs enables him to utilize GMC’s broad range of services to find the best possible solution to achieve their vision.

Jim is also well versed in community planning and economic development and has been involved with numerous utility improvement, downtown redevelopment, commercial district development, new/renovated schools and planned industrial park projects.

He is involved in a number of professional and civic organizations, including the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, Georgia Municipal Association, Economic Development Association of Georgia, Georgia Rural Water Association, Georgia Association of Water Professionals, Southern Economic Development Council, Association for Learning Environments (formerly CEFPI), Economic Development Partners of Alabama, American Planning Association, Auburn University Building Science Graduate School Advisory Committee and others. In addition, he has served on the Lee County Young Leaders Board; Auburn Chamber of Commerce, diplomat; Opelika Chamber of Commerce; Opelika Rotary Club; Alabama Golf Association Board of Directors and First Baptist Church, Royal Ambassador Leader.

2021 GNFCC Small Business of the Year Award: IBEX IT Business Experts, with Tracey Grace, Founder and CEO

September 30, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

2021 GNFCC Small Business of the Year Award: IBEX IT Business Experts, with Tracey Grace, Founder and CEO

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2021 GNFCC Small Business of the Year Award: IBEX IT Business Experts, with Tracey Grace, Founder and CEO (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 67)

IBEX IT Business Experts was recently named the 2021 GNFCC Small Business of the Year. Tracey Grace, Founder and CEO, joined host Kali Boatright to share the story behind her founding the company, the path which has led to the company’s inclusion on the Inc. 5000 list of Top Private Companies, her company’s launch of Certifiably Diverse, supplier diversity management software service which helps companies find qualified minority-owned vendors, and much more. The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

IBEX IT Business Experts

IBEX IT Business Experts (IBEX) is a Training, Technology and Consulting Services firm, laser-focused on assisting companies and government agencies to be more effective and efficient in their execution.

IBEX is a women-owned, minority-owned, SBA 8(a) certified business and is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion inside and outside of the company. For the 3rd year in a row, IBEX has been named the 802nd fastest-growing privately-owned company in America by Inc. 5000 and #31 in Georgia, after having placed #1897 in 2018, #806 in 2019. In 2020, IBEX obtained ISO 9001:2015 certification for its Quality Management System.

Company website. | LinkedIn

Tracey Grace, MBA, ITIL, President and CEO, IBEX IT Business Experts

IBEX Experts — **Tracey Grace, President and CEO, IBEX IT Business Experts**

Originally from New Jersey, Tracey attended the University of Pittsburgh where she obtained her BA in Economics and Spanish and was then awarded a Graduate Tuition Fellowship to fully fund her MBA in Marketing, which she completed in 11 months. Before breaking into the technology industry by founding IBEX IT Business Experts in 2012, Tracey led successful sales teams at international corporations including Learning Tree and FedEx.

At IBEX, Tracey helps organizations like NASA, CDC, and Cox Communications implement IT solutions and train workers on innovative technologies. As a minority woman founder, Tracey knows that IBEX brings value beyond technology training; IBEX also serves a major need in connecting organizations with underrepresented groups. Although her professional expertise lies in IT solutions, government contracting and best practices, she is a uniquely powerful authority on topics like diversity, networking, and leadership.

2021 marks a big year for IBEX, with the launch of Certifiably Diverse, a new supplier diversity software. Certifiably Diverse helps clients like the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) to increase their supplier diversity spend providing the smartest way to communicate, collaborate, and network with diverse suppliers. Additionally, IBEX has maintained its place on the Inc. 5000 list of Fastest-Growing Private Companies for 4 years straight and won Greater North Fulton Small Business of the Year and the Georgia Fast 40 Award, given to the top 40 fastest growing Georgia based mid-market companies.

Tracey enjoys serving others and giving back. She serves on several non-profit boards including North Fulton Community Charities, Jane Addams Peace Association, and is Co-Chair of the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council’s Minority Business Input Committee, where she assists minority businesses throughout the state.

About GNFCC and “The GNFCC 400 Insider”

“The GNFCC 400 Insider” is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC) and is hosted by Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC. The Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce is a private, non-profit, member-driven organization comprised of over 1400 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals. Their service area includes Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell and Sandy Springs. GNFCC is the leading voice on economic development, business growth and quality of life issues in North Fulton County.

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For the complete show archive of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” go to GNFCC400Insider.com. “The GNFCC 400 Insider” is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

John Herbert and Linda Coyle, Milton Business Council

August 26, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

John Herbert and Linda Coyle, Milton Business Council

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John Herbert and Linda Coyle, Milton Business Council (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 66)

After the merger of the former Milton Business Alliance into the Greater North Fulton Chamber, the resulting Milton Business Council has now completed an incredible inaugural year. John Herbert, 2021 Chair, and Linda Coyle, Incoming Chair for 2022, joined host Kali Boatright to offer their takeaways from the past year, why they are so passionate about MBC, plans for the rest of 2021 and next year, and more. The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

John Herbert, 2021 Chair, Milton Business Council, and Principal at Herbert Legal Group

John Herbert has been practicing law since 1994. In 2013 he decided to transform my practice and the way legal services are delivered to small and medium-sized businesses.

He realized that he was missing out on opportunities because people were afraid to call out of fear that the clock would be running, and they would be hit with a huge bill for his time. At the same time, companies were missing critical legal services out of fear.

From the smallest start-up to the industry giant, legal solutions are no longer a luxury. Whether it is that one incident that requires intense legal representation or simply issues that arise naturally in the day-to-day business context, companies need a law firm that is on their side.

Herbert Legal Group wants to be an integral member of your business team. Nothing splits up a team more than that unexplained, surprise invoice for services clients were not expecting, did not approve of, or did not understand. Time-based billing creates a wall of separation between team members which can hamper even the best working relationship. So Herbert Legal Group delivers solutions, not minutes.

Their biggest competition is not other law firms. Their biggest competition is business owners doing nothing. Herbert Legal will take that call. They will take that meeting. If they cannot offer you a solution during that time, then that time is on them. At least you will trust them enough to call them next time.

They are business owners just like you and understand the opportunities and challenges of building something lasting and important. HLG cannot commit to open-ended invoicing from their service providers either. They measure their resources and employ them in a way that creates value for the clients first and the company second. Sound familiar? They treat you the way you want to be treated.

Company website | LinkedIn

Linda Coyle, Incoming 2022 Chair, Milton Business Council, and Business Development Officer, LGE Community Credit Union

Linda Coyle started as a teacher and moved from education to business development. She has been in that role with LGE Community Credit Union since 2016.

In 1951, seven Lockheed Georgia employees dreamed of a better way to bank and LGE Community Credit Union was born. Today they serve communities in Northwest Georgia as a not-for-profit financial institution. Unlike a bank, whose profits go to its shareholders, their profits go to their members in the form of better rates and lower fees. They are guided by a strong commitment to provide a better financial future for our members.

Everyone who lives or works in Bartow, Cherokee, Cobb, Fulton, and Paulding counties is eligible to apply for membership, as are employees of many companies. Family members of existing members are also eligible.

Since 2010, LGE has invested over $1.45 million in the lives of those in the community including children, homeless, abuse victims, and those that fall on hard times. Not only is there a monetary contribution but LGE staff members volunteer over 2,600 hours in the community annually. Additionally, we partner with schools in the local communities through our Partners in Education platform. Continued efforts show why LGE Community Credit Union continues to be a fabric of the community.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and “The GNFCC 400 Insider”

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For the complete show archive of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” go to GNFCC400Insider.com. “The GNFCC 400 Insider” is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

2021 GNFCC Nonprofit Award Winners: Holly York, North Fulton Community Charities and Amy O’Dell, Jacob’s Ladder

August 9, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

2021 GNFCC Nonprofit Award Winners: Holly York, North Fulton Community Charities and Amy O’Dell, Jacob's Ladder

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2021 GNFCC Nonprofit Award Winners: Holly York, North Fulton Community Charities and Amy O’Dell, Jacob’s Ladder (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 65)

The two winners of the 2021 GNFCC Nonprofit of the Year were welcomed to this edition of the GNFCC 400 Insider. Holly York, Executive Director with North Fulton Community Charities, and Amy O’Dell, Founder of Jacob’s Ladder Neurodevelopment School and Therapy Center, joined host Tori Kerlin, Communications Coordinator at GNFCC, to discuss the tremendous work their respective organizations do. The GNFCC 400 Insider is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

North Fulton Community Charities, Holly York, Executive Director

**Holly York, Executive Director, North Fulton Community Charities**

North Fulton Community Charities assists residents living in North Fulton serving the cities of Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park and Roswell with short-term emergency needs. NFCC collaborates with many local providers to provide the resources necessary to help individuals and families remain stable in our community. NFCC provides services in English and Spanish.

Since 1983, North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) has addressed homelessness and hunger in North Fulton. Each year the agency serves close to 10,000 individuals with emergency need in the cities of Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park and Roswell.

Qualified residents can receive:

Emergency financial assistance for housing, utilities, medical care, transportation and other necessities.
Food and staples
Clothing using vouchers to purchase clothing from the NFCC Thrift Shop.
Education for workforce development and life skills workshops to help move toward financial stability and self-sufficiency.

Website | Holly York Linkedin

Jacob’s Ladder Center, Amy O’Dell, Founder and Executive Director

Jacob’s Ladder is a non-profit SAIS-SACS accredited private school serving pre-k through 12th-grade students, as well as a therapy center serving infant through young adult students.

Our campuses throughout Metro Atlanta offer full-time and part-time enrollment options in a variety of learning environments, with levels of support ranging from a 1:1 to a 6:1 student-teacher ratio.

We also offer various full-time and part-time remote enrollment options, facilitated either in-home or virtually, serving students and their families locally, nationally, and internationally.

In addition to serving students and their families directly, Jacob’s Ladder is committed to encouraging and empowering the global special needs community through research, training, certification, and licensure.

Every day, our students overcome challenges and reach goals once thought impossible:

those who have struggled with social cues begin establishing eye contact and engaging with the world around them in a meaningful way,
those who have struggled to grasp language begin communicating not only their wants and needs but also their original thoughts and feelings in ways that ensure that they know they are heard and understood by those around them,
those who have struggled relationally due to anxiety or frustration begin managing their emotions and thriving in a group setting,
those who have struggled with intrinsic motivation begin to discern their unique passion and purpose, and to embrace that each day is a beautiful opportunity to work towards that which they personally care about, and
those who have struggled to learn in previous educational settings take steps towards unprecedented academic achievement.

Our Interpersonal Whole-Brain Model of Care has transformed the lives of thousands of families and counting because it is grounded in science and guided by love.

Ms. Amy O’Dell is the founder of Jacob’s Ladder, designated as a 501(3) in 1999. The model, now trademarked and recognized nationally and internationally, was developed in response to critical developmental challenges faced by her own son, Jacob.

Ms. O’Dell holds a degree in Activity Therapy and a Master’s Degree in Counseling from Clemson University. She is a licensed Professional Counselor with extensive training on the Neurodevelopmental process and is certified as a Neurodevelopmental consultant. She has worked in a wide variety of clinical settings, including Shepherd Spinal Center in Atlanta, and later at Woodridge Psychiatric Hospital in Clayton, Georgia, where she held the positions of Director of Activity Therapy and the Director of Adolescent Psychiatric Services. She is a recognized national leader in the field of autism and neurodevelopmental disorders, and a sought-after speaker at national and international forums.

Governor Nathan Deal appointed Ms. O’Dell to serve on the Board of Directors of Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency as the expert in the field of Autism where she served a 3-year term. Ms. O’Dell currently serves on the Zac Brown Camp Southern Ground Board of Advisors for the Autism focus and the Board of Directors for HINRI.

Website | Amy O’Dell LinkedIn

About GNFCC and “The GNFCC 400 Insider”

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For the complete show archive of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” go to GNFCC400Insider.com. “The GNFCC 400 Insider” is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Fulton County Schools Update with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney

April 5, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Fulton County Schools Update with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney

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Fulton County Schools Update with Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 60)

Superintendent Dr. Mike Looney shared updates about the Fulton County School System, including Finish Strong, an effort to stress the importance of graduating high school, plans for in-person learning, the support of the community in the last year, and much more.

Dr. Looney joined the host of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” GNFCC CEO Kali Boatright, on this edition of The GNFCC 400 Insider, presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. The show is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Fulton County Schools

Fulton County Schools (FCS) is the fourth largest school system in Georgia with more than 14,000 full-and part-time employees, including more than 7,500 teachers and other certified personnel, who work in 106 schools and administrative and support buildings.During the 2019-20 school year, approximately 93,500 students will attend classes in 59 elementary schools, 19 middle schools, 18 high schools (includes two open campus high schools) and 10 charter organizations (some charters have multiple campuses but are considered one school).

School System website | Facebook | Twitter

Dr. Mike Looney, Superintendent, Fulton County Schools

Dr. Mike Looney joins Fulton County Schools after recently serving as Superintendent of Williamson County Schools in Tennessee, where he was named 2015 Superintendent of the year by the Tennessee Organization of School Superintendents (TOSS).

He earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and Master’s degree in Education from Jacksonville State University in Alabama. Dr. Looney earned his Educational Specialist Degree and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Alabama.

Dr. Looney’s work has been presented for regional and national audiences on a wide range of educational and leadership topics.

He has served on several distinguished panels including President George W. Bush’s National Reading Leadership Panel in Washington D.C.

Dr. Looney also served as Superintendent of the Butler County School District in Alabama. Under his leadership the school district realized significant student achievement gains, improved the graduation rate, and established the district’s first magnet school. In recognition of his work there, he was selected as Greenville, Alabama’s Citizen of the Year in 2008.

Before arriving at Butler, he was Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in Montgomery Public Schools. Under his leadership, the district of 61 schools and 31,000 students received national notoriety for its improvement in reading achievement scores.

Dr. Looney, a public educator since 1994, has also served in the roles of classroom teacher, assistant principal and principal. During his tenure as principal, his school was recognized for closing the achievement gap for underprivileged and minority students. His school was highlighted at both the state and national levels and was named a National Title I Distinguished School.

Prior to entering the field of education, he served as finance manager for a privately-held corporation with fifty employees in Anniston, Alabama. His responsibilities included corporate finance, marketing, and human resource management.

Dr. Looney is a military veteran having served for seven years in the United States Marine Corps before being honorably discharged with a service-related injury. His military service was distinguished by four meritorious promotions which included his being selected as the Marine of the Year for MCRS Montgomery serving Alabama, Mississippi and Florida. In addition to other medals and ribbons, Dr. Looney was the recipient of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal. His military duties took him all over the world and included a six-month tour on the USS Raleigh with the 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Amphibious Force. He is the father of four grown children.

LinkedIn | Twitter

About GNFCC and “The GNFCC 400 Insider”

**Kali Boatright, President and CEO of GNFCC**

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For the complete show archive of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” go to GNFCC400Insider.com. “The GNFCC 400 Insider” is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.

Wellstar Chamber Luncheon Series: COVID-19 Vaccine Update from the Centers for Disease Control

April 1, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Wellstar Chamber Luncheon Series: COVID-19 Vaccine Update from the Centers for Disease Control

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Wellstar Chamber Luncheon Series: COVID-19 Vaccine Update with the CDC, with Amanda Cohn, MD, and Michelle Wilson, Centers for Disease Control (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 59)

CDC Chief Medical Officer Dr. Amanda Cohn offered an update on the Covid-19 vaccine rollout and CDC Senior Advisor Michelle Wilson joined the call as well. Today’s program was sponsored by The City of Alpharetta and Logic Speak. The host of “The GNFCC 400 Insider” is GNFCC CEO Kali Boatright, and the show is presented by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and produced by the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®. John Ray and North Fulton Business RadioX served as the media sponsor for this event.

Amanda Cohn, MD, Chief Medical Officer, COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

Dr. Amanda Cohn currently serves as the Chief Medical Officer of the National Center for Immunizations and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD) and Executive Secretary of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. She previously served as the Deputy Director of NCIRD’s Immunization Services Division. Dr. Cohn came to the CDC in 2004 as an Epidemic Intelligence Service Officer and joined the Meningitis and Vaccine Preventable Diseases Branch in 2006, where she focused on prevention and control of meningococcal disease, both domestically and internationally. She is board certified in Pediatrics and is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

She obtained her medical degree from Emory University School of Medicine and completed a residency in pediatrics at Boston Children’s Hospital and Boston Medical Center in Massachusetts.

CDC website | Amanda Cohn LinkedIn

Michelle Wilson, Senior Advisor, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

**Michelle Wilson, Senior Advisor, CDC**

Michelle Wilson is a Senior Advisor at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the Office of the Chief Operating Officer. Her work focuses on strategic external relations as she directs CDC’s Georgia Relations work. Michelle has worked at CDC for 20 years, including the past seven years in the Office of Appropriations, most recently serving as Congressional Team Lead – leading activities related to the Agency’s appropriations outreach strategy with Congress.

During her CDC tenure, Michelle has worked in policy at all levels of the Agency, including time in Washington, D.C. – focusing on government relations, budget, appropriations, and non-federal partnerships. Prior to coming to CDC in 2001 as a Presidential Management Intern, Michelle worked at several large health related non-profits and practiced front-line social work in California in Los Angeles and Yolo Counties.

She is a graduate of the University of California at Davis and received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Southern California.

CDC Website | Michelle Wilson LinkedIn

Lindsey Petrini, Board Chair, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

Lindsey Petrini is the Chief Operating Officer of WellStar North Fulton Hospital. WellStar North Fulton Hospital is a 202-bed facility located in Roswell, Georgia.

About GNFCC and “The GNFCC 400 Insider”

The GNFCC promotes the interests of our members by assuming a leadership role in making North Fulton an excellent place to work, live, play and stay. They provide one voice for all local businesses to influence decision makers, recommend legislation, and protect the valuable resources that make North Fulton a popular place to live.

For the complete show archive of “The GNFCC 400 Insider,” go to GNFCC400Insider.com. “The GNFCC 400 Insider” is produced by John Ray and the North Fulton studio of Business RadioX®.