Kali Boatright Archives - Page 4 of 9

2022 GNFCC Non-Profit and Small Business Award Winners: Tanya Morris, Senior Services North Fulton, and Tom Burgess, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming and Jones Bridge

September 1, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

2022 GNFCC Non-Profit and Small Business Award Winners: Tanya Morris, Senior Services North Fulton, and Tom Burgess, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming and Jones Bridge

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2022 GNFCC Non-Profit and Small Business Award Winners: Tanya Morris, Senior Services North Fulton, and Tom Burgess, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming and Jones Bridge (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 78)

On this edition of the GNFCC 400 Insider, host Kali Boatright celebrated the 2022 Chamber Non-Profit and Small Business Award recipients. Senior Services North Fulton, represented by Tanya Morris, Client Services Director, was the Non-Profit Award winner, and Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming & Jones Bridge, owned by Tom Burgess, was named Small Business of the Year. Tanya and Tom each shared some of the work they are most proud of, the people who help make it happen, the clients they serve, 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®.

2022 Nonprofit Award Winner:

Tanya Morris, LMSW, Client Services Director, Senior Services of North Fulton

For over 30 years, Senior Services North Fulton has been at the forefront of efforts to eliminate senior hunger and provide additional care and support to the region’s growing population of older adults.

• Meals on Wheels – Delivers nearly 50,000 meals a year to seniors who are food insecure.

• TOPS – Facilitates free rides to and from important medical appointments.

• Senior Centers – Operation of seven senior centers located in Atlanta and North Fulton which helps the lonely and isolated build community and enhance wellbeing.

• Care Management – One-on-one emotional and relational support to the lonely and vulnerable.

• Meals on Wheels for Pets – Free pet food delivered to the furry companions of our seniors!

Their agency is a resource for all senior-related needs in the community.

Tanya Morris, LMSW, has been with Senior Services of North Fulton since 2011 and the Client Services Director since 2016.

Company website | Facebook | Tanya Morris LinkedIn

2022 Small Business of the Year:

Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming and Jones Bridge

Christian Brothers Automotive Comming’s expert, ASE-certified technicians care about every car that visits the shop, and they offer you a complimentary Courtesy Inspection on every visit. No work is ever performed without your permission and you will always be informed about your car in language that’s easy to understand. Bring your newer vehicles under warranty in for routine service and save on dealership prices!

For a car repair experience that’s clean, courteous and caring, choose your neighborhood Christian Brothers Automotive. Take a look at reviews from real customers at nearby shops and those around the country. Every visit to Christian Brothers should end in a happy car and a happy customer.

Christian Brothers Automotive offers auto repair service and maintenance for every vehicle. Gas or diesel, foreign or domestic, car or truck – no matter the vehicle, they have the expertise and experience to fix it right the first time. They have the same manufacturer-recommended equipment and diagnostic tools as the dealerships, but the local ties and industry partnerships so they can often offer better prices.

All locations are independently owned and operated and the owner is on-site. Speak directly with the owner about your car repairs. We know you have a choice in car care – thanks for considering Christian Brothers Automotive. Schedule an appointment today or send your questions to our experts.

Company website

Tom Burgess, Owner, Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming and Jones Bridge

Tom Burgess received his undergraduate BS Degree from Syracuse and an MBA from Oklahoma City University. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel after 23 years in the US Air Force. He has over 900 combat flying hours in Desert Shield, Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan). He spent three years as an Associate Professor at US Air Force Academy and 1 year as a Squadron Commander there. He spent 3 years in Counter Drugs and one year in Korea.

Following his time in the Air Force, he was with Northrop Grumman Corporation as a Systems Engineer for six years, and he currently owns Christian Brothers Automotive in Cumming and Jones Bridge.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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

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®.

LIVE from the GNFCC Grand Opening Celebration: Kali Boatright, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

August 22, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Business Radio

LIVE from the GNFCC Grand Opening Celebration: Kali Boatright, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

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North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 503)

The Greater North Fulton Chamber (GNFCC) recently celebrated their move to 10000 Avalon with a day-long grand opening and ribbon cutting celebration. During the event, President and CEO Kali Boatright sat down with host John Ray to reflect on the process of finding the space, making the investment in their members, celebrating with the community, and much more.

This show was originally broadcast live from the Grand Opening celebration and ribbon cutting of the new offices of the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce at the 10000 Building at Avalon in Alpharetta, Georgia, on August 18, 2022.

North Fulton Business Radio is produced and broadcast by 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 | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter

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.

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

The celebration
The process of selecting a space
Investing in the membership
Navigating the move into Avalon
What’s ahead for GNFCC

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.

Keith Parker, Goodwill of North Georgia

July 27, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

Keith Parker, Goodwill of North Georgia

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Keith Parker, Goodwill of North Georgia (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 77)

Keith Parker, President and CEO of Goodwill of North Georgia, joined host Kali Boatright to share the tremendous work his organization performs for jobseekers securing employment. Keith shared Goodwill success stories, their specific work in North Fulton, his career journey, which includes a five year stint as CEO of MARTA, 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®.

Goodwill of North Georgia

At Goodwill of North Georgia, their mission is a simple one: they put people to work.

Every day, thousands of men and women face barriers that make it difficult for them to find work and earn a paycheck to support their families. Sometimes it’s lack of training or education, limited job skills, or a disability. But with the support of donors and shoppers like you, Goodwill overcomes those barriers.

At career centers throughout North Georgia, Goodwill offers job-search resources, helps with writing a professional résumé and cover letter, provides access to employment opportunities, delivers hands-on skill training, and so much more.

They provide access to important job search resources like computers, résumé writing tools, local job listings, telephones, and photocopiers. They also host regular recruiting events, employment seminars, and even offer software training. As an extension of their career center services, they launched Career Connector powered by Goodwill of North Georgia, a site that allows you to register online and access job search resources from anywhere.

Their training programs prepare people for careers in a wide array of fields such as retail, financial services, floor technology, healthcare, traditional and green construction, forklift operations, and more.

Think about Goodwill and the good they do the next time you’re deciding what to do with your gently used goods, or even when you’re about to go treasure hunting for a bargain. If you’d like to help them improve our communities, strengthen families, and energize the economy, they welcome your donations and invite you to visit their stores.

Company website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Keith Parker, President and CEO, Goodwill of North Georgia

Keith T. Parker is president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Goodwill of North Georgia. One of the largest nonprofit organizations in the southeast, Goodwill spans a 45-county territory, operating 60 stores, 58 donation centers, and 13 career centers. Goodwill employs nearly 3,000 people, each of whom plays a direct or supporting role in the organization’s donated goods retail operations and its career services. Annually, Goodwill collects upwards of 2.5 million donations and serves more than 7 million shoppers. Through the revenue generated in its stores, the organization is able to connect tens of thousands of North Georgians to jobs each year. Parker took the helm at Goodwill of North Georgia in October 2017. Prior to transitioning into his leadership role at Goodwill, Parker has served as CEO of the largest transit systems in several cities, including San Antonio, Charlotte and most recently, Atlanta.

Throughout his career, Parker has received numerous awards and accolades for his work as an organizational leader and transportation visionary. He won Texas CEO of the Year Awards in 2011 and 2012. He was recognized as the nation’s Outstanding Public Transportation Manager by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA) in 2015. METRO Magazine named Parker as one of its 20 Most Influential People of the Decade. In 2016, Parker was appointed by President Barack Obama to serve on the National Infrastructure Advisory Council (NIAC). In November the same year, he was named one of eight Public Officials of the Year by Governing magazine. In August 2017, Parker was selected as one of Atlanta’s Most Admired CEOs by Atlanta Business Chronicle.

A native of Petersburg, Virginia, Parker was appointed to the Virginia Commonwealth University Board of Visitors by Governor Terry McAuliffe in 2016. Parker received VCU’s Alumni Star Award in 2015.

Parker served on the board of directors for Goodwill of San Antonio and Goodwill of North Georgia. He remains active and engaged in civic and charitable organizations, including service on various national and local boards of directors – such as Georgia Chamber of Commerce Board of Advisors, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, National Infrastructure Advisory Council, The Eno Center for Transportation, Park Over Georgia 400 Steering Committee, Virginia Commonwealth University Board of Visitors, Virginia Commonwealth University Health Systems Board of Directors, Grande West Board of Directors and Atlanta Convention and Visitors Bureau.

Parker holds an MBA from the University of Richmond, as well as a Master of Urban and Regional Planning and a BA in Political Science from Virginia Commonwealth University.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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®.

North Fulton Hotel Industry: Ted Basco, Visit Roswell, and Xavier Etcheberrigaray, Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

June 30, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

North Fulton Hotel Industry: Ted Basco, Visit Roswell, and Xavier Etcheberrigaray, Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

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North Fulton Hotel Industry: Ted Basco, Visit Roswell, and Xavier Etcheberrigaray, Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 76)

Host Kali Boatright welcomed Ted Basco, Director of Sales for Visit Roswell, and Xavier Etcheberrigaray, General Manager of the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta, in a conversation about the hotel industry in North Fulton. They had a lively discussion about how the industry adjusted to the changing conditions of the pandemic, the need for resilience, the rise of Airbnb and VRBO properties and how hotels differentiate themselves, labor shortage issues, trends they see coming, 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®.

Visit Roswell

Visit Roswell is the convention and visitors bureau for the City of Roswell, Georgia.

Often referred to as a destination marketing organization (DMO), their organization incorporates targeted advertising and marketing programs with sales and public relations efforts to build the image of Roswell as a travel destination and increase visitation to the city.

Company website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

Ted Basco, Director of Sales, Visit Roswell

Ted Basco is a seasoned veteran of the tourism & hospitality industry. He has extensive hotel experience with major worldwide brands like Hyatt Corporation, Starwood Hotels and Resorts, Marriott International, and IHG Hotels and Resorts. The bulk of Ted’s career includes roles as Director of Guest Services, Director of Operations and Director of Sales & Marketing at numerous hotels in San Francisco, San Diego, Los Angeles and Atlanta.

Today, Ted is in his 3rd year on the DMO’s side of the business as Director of Sales & Film Liaison for Visit Roswell – the Roswell, Georgia Convention & Visitors Bureau. Ted currently serves as an active member of the MPI Georgia Chapter, co-chairing their Community Outreach Committee where he recently was awarded the Phoenix Award for MPI Georgia Supplier Member of the Year.

Ted also is also a recent graduate of the Leadership North Fulton – Class of 2022, a year-long class facilitated by the Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce. Ted’s true personal passion is in sports, as he was a former student-athlete at San Francisco State University, majoring in Broadcast Communications and Sports Journalism. He also serves as a long-time volunteer and advisory board member with the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl in Atlanta.

Ted is married to Wendy, his wife of 14 years, who is also in the hospitality industry as an executive with The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. They both have two amazing and talented children (11, 8).

And congratulations to Ted for being a 2022 MPI Georgia Phoenix Award Recipient as Supplier of the Year.

Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

Experience attentive service in a prime setting at Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta. Ideally situated near business centers and popular attractions such as Top Golf, their updated hotel offers a modern yet warm and inviting ambiance that welcomes every traveler. Relax in the comfort of their spacious guest rooms or suites, each with deluxe amenities and products.

Savor delicious dining in the hotel’s restaurant or stop by the coffee shop to pick up drinks and treats to take along on your adventures around Alpharetta. If a business meeting, wedding, or social event brings you to Alpharetta, you’ll be delighted with their sophisticated venues, custom catering and unparalleled services. When it’s time to explore, you’ll find shopping, dining and entertainment nearby, including Ameris Bank Amphitheatre, Avalon, and more.

Whether staying with Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta for work or enjoying a getaway, they look forward to greeting you.

Company website | Facebook | Instagram

Xavier Etcheberrigaray, General Manager, Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

Xavier Etcheberrigaray serves as a GM for the Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta.

Previously he was the Corporate Director of Hotel Operations at Caesars Entertainment, based in Las Vegas. In this role, he was responsible for the development, implementation, and execution of hospitality-related initiatives for Caesars’ Brands in the Americas, including Caesars Palace, Paris, Flamingo, and Harrah’s properties.

Prior to joining Caesars, Xavier spent the last decade working overseas, for both Rixos and Kempinski Hotels. As the Corporate Director of Strategy and Development at Rixos, he oversaw the company’s strategic, long-term goal planning function and development pipeline for luxury resorts in emerging markets.

Xavier embarked on his career as a Management Trainee with InterContinental Hotels, working as a Food & Beverage MT in Miami and subsequently a Sales & Marketing MT in Atlanta, before assuming roles of increasing responsibility outside the company. He later pursued an MBA in hospitality from Glion in Switzerland.

Xavier graduated from Ole Miss with a degree in Political Science. Xavier is a polyglot and serious foodie, speaking French, Spanish, some Portuguese, and English, and enjoying the food from those countries in that order.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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®.

2022 Legislative Wrap Up with Lauren Fralick, Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs

April 28, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

2022 Legislative Wrap Up with Lauren Fralick, Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs

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2022 Legislative Wrap Up with Lauren Fralick, Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 74)

Lauren Fralick, Co-Founder of Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs, was the guest on this episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider. She and host Kali Boatright covered the 2022 Legislative Session, including how tax incentives were addressed in this year’s session, the Georgia Mental Health Parity Act, upcoming primary elections, the redistricting process and how it might affect races in this year’s elections, 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®.

Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs

At Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs, their public policy, strategic consulting, business development, and procurement work ensures that clients have their fingers on the pulse and their fingerprints on the outcomes.

For over a combined 40 years, Fralick Bozeman partners have been at the table working with decision-makers to help resolve many of Georgia’s most complex and transformational public policy initiatives.

Their successes and reputations are built on being trusted partners. They believe that every client and public sector relationship is cultivated and preserved through honesty, integrity, creativity, hard work, and resourcefulness.

Whether serving in the public sector or championing causes for the private sector, Fralick Bozeman partners have built a solid reputation by relentlessly pursuing paths that help align decision-makers to achieve positive outcomes.

Company website

Lauren Fralick, Co-Founder, Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs

Lauren W. Fralick has over 15 years of lobbying experience in Georgia. Fralick is a co-founder of Roll Call Public Affairs Consultants LLC and Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs, LLC – firms designed to bring innovation, positive disruption and best in class service to the public affairs market.

Prior to forming these ventures, Lauren was a partner for seven years at a large lobbying firm serving clients of multiple industry sectors in Georgia. Before that, she served as the Vice President of Government Affairs for the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Georgia’s leading business organization for nearly eight years. She represented the interest of the state’s business community before the Georgia General Assembly and the Constitutional Officers of Georgia on issues important to the economic competitiveness of our state.

She also oversaw the Georgia Chamber’s Political Action Committee and Independent Expenditure Committee by identifying and supporting pro-business candidates for office. Her legislative areas of focus have included agriculture, economic development, regulated industries, taxation, healthcare, transportation, workforce development, education, environment, and energy.

Before lobbying, Fralick gained political experience by working on campaigns in Georgia at the federal, state, and local levels. She was voted “Rookie Lobbyist of the Year” by her peers under the Gold Dome after her first year of lobbying. Fralick is a graduate of Leadership Georgia and serves on the Board of the Georgia Center for Civic Engagement.

Fralick is a native of Swainsboro, Georgia. She and her husband Frank have three daughters and reside in the Virginia-Highland neighborhood of Atlanta.

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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®.

The GNFCC 2022 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners: Leslie Day-Harrell, Jackson Healthcare, Melody Swilling, Swilling Family Law, and Valarie Mackey, WrightNow Solutions

March 30, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

The GNFCC 2022 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners: Leslie Day-Harrell, Jackson Healthcare, Melody Swilling, Swilling Family Law, and Valarie Mackey, WrightNow Solutions

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The GNFCC 2022 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners: Leslie Day-Harrell, Jackson Healthcare, Melody Swilling, Swilling Family Law, and Valarie Mackey, WrightNow Solutions (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 73)

This episode of the GNFCC 400 Insider celebrates three recipients of the GNFCC 2022 Women INfluencing Business Awards. Leslie Day-Harrell with Jackson Healthcare is the 2022 Business Woman of Excellence Large Business Award Winner. Joining her were Melody Swilling of Swilling Family Law, who was the Rising Star Award Winner, and Valarie Mackie of WrightNow Solutions who was awarded the 2022 Business Woman of Excellence Small Business Award. They each talked about their path to their chosen fields, some of the challenges they encountered, the ways they give back, lessons they would pass along, 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®.

2022 Business Woman of Excellence | Large Business

Leslie Day-Harrell, Executive Vice President, Associate Experience, and Head of Corporate Real Estate, 2

Leslie Day-Harrell, Executive Vice President, Associate Experience, and Head of Corporate Real Estate, Jackson HealthcareLeslie works with associates to develop an overarching strategy created to help ensure positive employment experiences, including career and personal growth, physical, emotional, and financial health, and spiritual and social wellbeing. She also works to advance the company’s ongoing commitment to serve others including the company’s Fostering Holiday Hope initiative for North Fulton foster children and work with LoveLifts Village, providing co-working space for 15 local non-profit organizations at a reduced cost.

Leslie also serves in the North Fulton community through board positions on Sunshine on a Ranney Day, YMCA and after school programs.

Jackson Healthcare is a family of highly specialized healthcare staffing, search, and technology companies. With $1.4 billion in annual revenue, Jackson Healthcare is Atlanta’s 10th largest privately held company and is the third-largest healthcare staffing company in the country.

Company website | LinkedIn

2022 Rising Star Award Winner

Melody Swilling, Owner and Founder, Swilling Family Law

On top of growing her child-centered family law practice, mentoring a first-year associate and a third-year legal intern, Melody volunteers with Meals by Grace and iCanShine, where each summer she helps children with special needs learn to ride bicycles. In addition, she has worked with the State Legislature behind the scenes to discuss drafts of legislation and the implications of drafted legislation – including the landmark Equitable Caregiver Statute.

At Swilling Family Law, you have a partner who has the knowledge, judgment, and experience to help you overcome life’s most trying times so that you can reach your life’s most important goals – in the most expedient, prudent, and painless way possible.

Company website | LinkedIn

2022 Business Woman of Excellence| Small Business

Valarie Mackey, CEO, WrightNow Solutions

Valarie left a successful career to start WrightNow Solutions where she could dedicate her efforts to pushing the needle in providing education and tools needed for everyone to have equitable opportunities. By orchestrating technology credentialing programs, she has helped take people out of generational poverty and provided opportunities for them to change the trajectory of their families by doubling and tripling their salaries in four months.

After graduating with various co-op and internships, Valarie started her career in management consulting with Ernst & Young, went to a smaller consulting firm, and then progressed to The Coca-Cola Company. She started out as an engineer, however, made a transition to Information Technology. While in Technology she had responsibility for large global portfolios and had overarching accountability for technology solutions to enable business success.

Valarie built her career in a variety of roles including strategic planning and execution, program management and delivery, business development, customer service and retention, vendor and supplier management, employee development and engagement, organization optimization, and community outreach.

WrightNow Solutions was created in part to help underrepresented populations launch successful careers by providing Life and Career Readiness training, thus preparing them for, and bridging the gap to, companies that need entry-level talent. Because the entire talent lifecycle is critical, they have curricula and programs that place a keen focus on helping people thrive and excel in their career from entry-level to executive level.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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®.

2022 North Fulton Economic Outlook with Ian Wyatt, Principal Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce

January 28, 2022 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

2022 North Fulton Economic Outlook with Ian Wyatt, Principal Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce

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2022 North Fulton Economic Outlook with Ian Wyatt, Principal Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 71)

Ian Wyatt, Principal Economist with the Metro Atlanta Chamber, joined host Kali Boatright to cover the North Fulton economic outlook for 2022. Ian discussed the strength of North Fulton schools, inflation, housing affordability, how childcare costs affect the labor market, job growth and unemployment 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®

The Metro Atlanta Chamber

The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) is a 160-year-old organization that today represents businesses, colleges and universities, and nonprofits across the 29-county region that makes up the nation’s ninth-largest market.

MAC works to position metro Atlanta as a top-tier global region by focusing on three key areas: economic development, public policy and promotion. Its efforts build on the qualities that make Atlanta one of the nation’s most unique metros — its neighborhoods, culture, quality of life, welcoming business community and more. MAC’s economic development efforts focus on recruiting new companies to the region and retaining and growing the innovative businesses that already call the area home. In addition, MAC convenes thought leaders in supply chain, IoT, bioscience, global commerce, technology, innovation and entrepreneurship — the region’s key ecosystems.

Company website

Ian Wyatt, Vice President, Principal Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber

Ian Wyatt is a Senior Economist with extensive experience and expertise in commercial portfolio strategy, industry analytics, macroeconomic forecasting, competitive intelligence, and risk management.

Ian currently serves as the Vice President, Principal Economist at the Metro Atlanta Chamber. In his previous role, Ian served as the Vice President/Economist, Analytics and Information Strategy, Wholesale Credit for the Bank of America.

Ian also served as Vice President/Economist, Pricing Strategy and Business Analytics, Wholesale Credit with Bank of America where he led a team that produced detailed analysis of loan yields at competitors to improve margins on $400B commercial loan portfolio. He also held the positions of Vice President/Economist, Industry Risk Group and Vice President/Economist, Industry and Country Risk Group.

Prior to joining the Bank of America, Ian served as a Senior Economist with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, where he was responsible for developing and evaluating forecasts of major macroeconomic variables, including GDP, inflation, employment, balance of trade, and monetary policy. These forecasts formed the basis of official U.S. government economic forecasts.

Ian began his career as an Economist, Occupational Outlook and Occupational Employment Statistics Division with the Bureau of Labor Statistics, where he co-developed new statistical metrics and methods in response to customer requests for information on the employment outlook for college graduates.

LinkedIn | Twitter

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on GNFCC events, 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 Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2021 Chair Lindsey Petrini and 2022 Chair James Holmes

December 16, 2021 by John Ray

North Fulton Studio

GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2021 Chair Lindsey Petrini and 2022 Chair James Holmes

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GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2021 Chair Lindsey Petrini and 2022 Chair James Holmes (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 70)

Lindsey Petrini, 2021 Chair, and James Holmes, 2022 Chair, joined host Kali Boatright to reflect on GNFCC’s accomplishments and challenges of 2021, to look ahead to 2022, including the move to Avalon, 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®.

Lindsey Petrini, 2021 GNFCC Chair, 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.

Company website | LinkedIn

James Holmes, 2022 GNFCC Chair and SVP & North Fulton Market President, Truist

**James Holmes, 2022 GNFCC Chair and SVP & North Fulton Market President at Truist**

James Holmes serves as the Market President for Northeast Atlanta encompassing Gwinnett, North Fulton & Forsyth Counties. James is responsible for overseeing the commercial banking team and integration of all other lines of business such as Wealth Management, Institutional Services, Insurance, Retail, & Capital Markets into the Northeast Atlanta Commercial Banking Group.

His focus is helping privately held corporations and non-profits with annual revenues of $5,000,000 – $75,000,000; by aiding them in areas of Capital Formation, Payment Solutions, and Risk Management. James is experienced in real estate transactions, asset-based lending, equipment financing, and leveraged financing transactions.

BB&T and SunTrust formed Truist with a shared purpose—to inspire and build better lives and communities. With our combined resources, collective passion, and commitment to innovation, we’re creating a better financial experience to help people and businesses achieve more. With 275 years of combined BB&T and SunTrust history,

Truist serves approximately 12 million households with leading market share in many high-growth markets in the country. The company offers a wide range of services including retail, small business and commercial banking; asset management; capital markets; commercial real estate; corporate and institutional banking; insurance; mortgage; payments; specialized lending; and wealth management.

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Truist is the sixth-largest commercial bank in the U.S.

Company website | LinkedIn

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

For more information on GNFCC and its North Fulton County service area, follow this link or call (770) 993-8806. For more information on GNFCC events, 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®.

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

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®.

2022 GNFCC Non-Profit and Small Business Award Winners: Tanya Morris, Senior Services North Fulton, and Tom Burgess, Christian Brothers Automotive, Cumming and Jones Bridge (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 78)

2022 Nonprofit Award Winner:

Tanya Morris, LMSW, Client Services Director, Senior Services of North Fulton

2022 Small Business of the Year:

Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming and Jones Bridge

Tom Burgess, Owner, Christian Brothers Automotive Cumming and Jones Bridge

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

LIVE from the GNFCC Grand Opening Celebration: Kali Boatright, Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce (North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 503)

Greater North Fulton Chamber of Commerce

Kali Boatright, President and CEO, GNFCC

Questions and Topics in this Interview:

Keith Parker, Goodwill of North Georgia (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 77)

Goodwill of North Georgia

Keith Parker, President and CEO, Goodwill of North Georgia

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

North Fulton Hotel Industry: Ted Basco, Visit Roswell, and Xavier Etcheberrigaray, Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 76)

Visit Roswell

Ted Basco, Director of Sales, Visit Roswell

Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

Xavier Etcheberrigaray, General Manager, Atlanta Marriott Alpharetta

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

2022 Legislative Wrap Up with Lauren Fralick, Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 74)

Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs

Lauren Fralick, Co-Founder, Fralick Bozeman Public Affairs

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

The GNFCC 2022 Women INfluencing Business Award Winners: Leslie Day-Harrell, Jackson Healthcare, Melody Swilling, Swilling Family Law, and Valarie Mackey, WrightNow Solutions (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 73)

2022 Business Woman of Excellence | Large Business

2022 Rising Star Award Winner

Melody Swilling, Owner and Founder, Swilling Family Law

2022 Business Woman of Excellence| Small Business

Valarie Mackey, CEO, WrightNow Solutions

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

2022 North Fulton Economic Outlook with Ian Wyatt, Principal Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 71)

The Metro Atlanta Chamber

Ian Wyatt, Vice President, Principal Economist, Metro Atlanta Chamber

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

GNFCC Year in Review and Leadership Transition: An Interview with 2021 Chair Lindsey Petrini and 2022 Chair James Holmes (GNFCC 400 Insider, Episode 70)

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

James Holmes, 2022 GNFCC Chair and SVP & North Fulton Market President, Truist

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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)

2021 Business Woman of Excellence Award Winner

Linda Coyle, Business Development Officer, LGE Community Credit Union

2021 Rising Star Award Winner

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

2021 Nonprofit Woman of Excellence Award

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

About GNFCC and The GNFCC 400 Insider

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North Fulton Business Radio, Episode 503)