THE WORLD’S GREATEST CHAMBER MAGAZINE!

JUL/AUG2015

the arts and entertainment

issue!

Making a Move: Professional Lacrosse Comes to Gwinnett!

featuring: Behind the Scenes at the Aurora Theatre!

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FEARLESS ATHLETES DESERVENATIONALLY- RANKEDSPORTS MEDICINE.From repairing broken bones to rehabbing torn ligaments, Children’s Sports Medicine helps young athletes get back to full speed. For more information visit choa.org/sportsmed.

FOUR GWINNETT LOCATIONS – DACULA, DULUTH, SNELLVILLE AND SUWANEE

JULY/AUGUST 2015 Table of Contents GWINNETTedge

FEATURESNEWS DESK

THE PULSE

TRENDING

STRATEGIES

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july/august 2015 3

7 Around the Region GEIGER Automotive to open U.S. facility in GwinnettPLUS: Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology earns top honors

11 Inside the Chamber Partnership Gwinnett announces fundraising successPLUS: Gwinnett Chamber announces finalists and winners of the IMPACT Regional Business Awards, Member Spotlight on BB&T’s Bruce Sharp, May & June Businesses of the month, upcoming events calendar, benefits of membership and more

22 Gwinnett's Film Industry Superheroes are Here to Save the Day!Profiles on Atlanta Media Campus and Eagle Rock Studios Atlanta

28 Professional Lacrosse is Coming to Gwinnett Find out about the fastest sport on two feet and Swarm's relocation to metro Atlanta

33 Where in the World is Nick Masino? Travel the globe with Nick Masino, Senior Vice President, Partnership Gwinnett & Economic Development, in his Global Business Outreach efforts

39 Community Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity shares how business partnerships strengthen communities and change lives[By Rachel Perez]

42 Technology Business RadioX discusses the power of digital media and promoting the county's business climate[By Mike Sammond]

44 Business Learn how to overcome decision paralysis and the importance of a logical decision-making process[By Chris Reese]

46 Perspectives Two professional athletes share what it is really like to play in the minor leagues

49 Commodities, Community, & Culture Farmers markets across Gwinnett offer fresh produce and locally made goods; five things to know about The Hudgens Center for the Arts; get connected with the City of Norcross; the latest water cooler talk; a look at the office stage of Aurora Theatre; and more

President’s MessageGWINNETTCHAMBER.ORG

4 gwinnettedge

Earth Without Art is Just “Eh”On the recent Atlanta Regional Commission LINK trip, I was privileged to visit 401 Richmond, a restored, heritage-designated industrial building in downtown Toronto that is home to approximately 150 artists and entrepreneurs. Originally constructed in 1899 as a manufacturing facility, the building was purchased in 1994 by the Zeidler family to address Toronto’s need for affordable workspace in the city’s downtown core.

An aging building with a 40 percent occupancy rate has been transformed into a fully-leased thriving cultural and commercial center. Today the 200,000-square-foot structure houses a vibrant urban community of fine artists, musicians, graphic designers, milliners, architects, fashion designers, filmmakers, art galleries, arts administration organizations, environmental groups and even a Spanish dance school. This fascinating arts incubator offers people an environment where culture, commerce and community are celebrated, a place where they can bring their dreams to reality.

The positive impact of arts and culture on society has been understood innately since the very first rendering on the wall of a cave; it’s only recently that we have begun to quantify the impact of arts and culture on economic development. Art and culture are a significant part of our economy—not just the contributions of ideas and creativity, but an important part of the labor force and our nation’s GDP.

The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis and the National Endowment for the Arts estimate that 3.2 percent – $504 billion – of current-dollar GDP in 2011 was attributable to arts and culture. The arts, as well as cultural goods and services, employed two million workers and generated $289.5 billion in employee compensation in the form of wages, salaries, and supplements.

As we all know, the impact of the arts extends well beyond its dollar value. According to the America Planning Association, the activities of the arts and culture sector and local economic vitality are connected in many ways. Arts, culture, and creativity can:

Improve a community's competitive edge

Create a foundation for defining a sense of place

Attract new and visiting populations Integrate the visions of community and business

leaders Contribute to the development of a skilled

workforce

The noted artist Pablo Picasso once observed that “Action is the foundational key to all success.” In our community, action is the name of the game; we all know success lives here. The beauty of Gwinnett can be seen throughout our thriving businesses, service-involved citizens, and numerous examples of artistic expression across the county.

The sense of progress that drives us forward as a community is the very foundation of our unique community. That said, a major part of what makes Gwinnett special is that our success is not limited to our business endeavors. The extraordinary variety of art and culture that is available to every Gwinnettian is as integral to our notion of success as is our entrepreneurial prowess.

President & CEOGwinnett Chamber of Commerce

cover design courtesy: Ken rutherford

VOLUME 3 / ISSUE 2

GWINNETTedgeGWINNETT CHAMBER OF COMMERCEpresident/ceo: Dr. Dan Kaufman

chairman: Randy Dellinger

magazine committee: Abby Wilkerson 678-584-2266 abby@gwinnettchamber.org

Traci Strom 678-584-2267 traci@gwinnettchamber.org

PUBLICATION MANAGEMENT & ADVERTISING SALESAccent Creative Group 205 Culver Street NW Lawrenceville, GA 678.407.8820 www.accentcreativegroup.orgmanaging editor: Pam Ledbetter

art director: Ashleigh James

graphic design: Bebe Rogers

editorial director: Delaine Gray

postmaster: Send change of address to: Gwinnett edge 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway Duluth, GA 30097 Gwinnett edge ©2015 is published bimonthly by the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.

The Gwinnett Chamber and its representatives, employees, and agents are held harmless from any claim, demand, liability, or action on account of or in any way arising out of the client’s advertising, products, and services, or its participation in Gwinnett edge.

NEW CHAMBER MEMBERSPlease join the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce in welcoming these new members and extending sincere appreciation for their support of our community. Congratulations on your investment in success! —Vince DeSilva, Senior Vice President of Membership Services

Interested in joining the Cham

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Chairman’s Club New Membersn McGladrey LLP

n Olgetree Deakins Nash Smoak and Stewart, PC

n Piedmont Automation, Inc.

n PNC Bank - Peachtree Corners

n Rick Case Hyundai Duluth

n RIck Case Kia

n Rick Case Mazda

n Spherion Staffing Services - Gwinnett

New Membersn Active Pest Controln Affinity 24n All About Asphalt, Inc.n Allstate Insurance Corporate n American Disposal Servicesn Arbor Terrace of Hamilton Milln Arrow Exterminatorsn Artistic Countertop Expo, Inc.n Baking Technology Systemsn Bassett Furniture - Mall of Georgian Bexley Law Firm, LLCn Beyond Payrolln BioLife Plasma Servicesn Blue Key Interactiven Bojanglesn Brand & Britt Insurance Agency, LLCn Bravo! Print Partners, Inc.n Central Paymentn Charis Financen Chic A'mor Hair Studion Christopher & Scott, LLCn ClearStar, Inc.n Club Z! In-Home Tutoring Servicesn C-Med Solutions, LLCn Cyril and Associates Accounting, LLCn D&G Consultantn DARE Investments, LLCn Databilitiesn Design Spotn Dillard Electric, Inc.n Discount Picture Framingn Edge 2 Edge Roofingn Edward Jones - Clark Jensenn Edward Jones - Kyle Bochatn Expense Reduction Advisors, LLCn Family Impact Restoration Ministriesn First American Bank & Trust n FirstCall Consulting Partners, LLCn Gencon Golden Sands General Contractors

n Guiding Force of Atlantan HeritageBank of the Southn Inline Distributing Company - ATLn J.T. Stratfordn James F. Sledgen Jersey Mike's Subs- Loganvillen Keller Williams - Mercedes Phelann Kevin Grindlay Copywritingn Klenzing, LLCn Kumon Math and Reading Center of Lawrenceville - Collins Hilln LA Fitnessn LeadOutcomen Legacy Academy Corporate Officen Maid Right of Duluthn Mary Kay - Daidre Jaspern Neighborhood Advertising Networkn NickPrint, Inc.n Olé Mexican Foods, Inc.n Oral Surgery Associates & Dental Implant Centersn Organized Chick, LLCn OrganWise Guys, Inc.n Penn Station East Coast Subsn Personal Touch of Atlanta, Elder Care Referrals, LLCn Phoenix Residential Groupn PM Assistant LLCn Premier Choice District Aflac Georgia Northn Premier Immediate Care - Suwaneen Preserve at Legacy Parkn Print Magic Specialty Printingn ProFinder, LLCn Rainbow Child Care Center of Sugar Hilln Redago, Inc.n Renew Digital, LLCn Repro Products, Inc. n Salons by JCn Scotty's Thrifty Storage - Duluth n SDDS Holdings, Inc.n ServisFirst Bankn Shuma, LLCn Simply HR, LLCn Slingshot Entertainment, LLCn Snellville Smiles Dentistryn SpaceMax Storagen Sparks-Grizzard Construction, Inc.n Sperry Van Ness - Hokayem Companyn State Farm - Rob Ro Agencyn Talk About It Catering n The Interface Financial Groupn Tom + Cheen Total Home Consultantsn Transamerica Finantial Adisors - Team Dare n Trileanan USA Mobile Drug Testing of Northeast Georgian Vantage Accounting and Tax Services, LLCn Wishes 4 Me Foundation, Inc.n YouFit Health Clubs

The Jackson EMC commercial & industrial team on location at the new facility of client, Georgia Poultry Lab.

TO BE YOUR BESTPOWERTHE

COMMERCIAL + INDUSTRIAL DIVISION

770.963.6166 | jacksonemc.com

we pride ourselves

not only on what we provide our members,

but on how we provide it. Power is our

business, but our objective is satisfied

customers. Every day our employees work

to achieve the perfect balance between

advanced technology and personal service

to help our customers achieve their best.

Give us a call. We’ll show you how we

can help your team succeed.

At Jackson EMC,BRINGING YOU

JEMC_GaPoultry_GwinnEdge_0415_Layout 1 4/23/15 5:39 PM Page 1

What’s happening in the Gwinnett business community

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News Desk

july/august 2015 7

GEIGER Automotive toOpen U.S. Facility in Gwinnett Global manufacturer to create 120 new jobs in the community

Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development in partnership with Georgia Department of Economic Development recently announced that German-based GEIGER Automotive will open U.S. manufacturing operations in Gwinnett. The announcement will create 120 new jobs in the metro Atlanta community.

A leading global manufacturer of high quality plastic products and major supplier to German automotive manufacturers, GEIGER established a U.S. facility to better reach its growing customer base in the southeast.

“We are pleased to locate our U.S. operations in Georgia,” said Ralph Ralston, president, NAFTA region, GEIGER Automotive, USA, Inc. “This location was strategically selected to optimize our ability to supply to our current automotive customers in the southeast U.S. We see an increasing interest from automotive OEM’s in the region and a high growth potential for us here in Gwinnett County.”

Located in the City of Suwanee, the new 48,000-square-

foot facility will manufacture plastic automotive components for engine compartment powertrain applications.

“GEIGER Automotive’s decision to locate its U.S. facility in Gwinnett County underscores not only our booming auto hub, but also the growth of German companies in Georgia,” said GDEcD Commissioner Chris Carr. “The state’s strategic location to large OEMs, including the Volkswagen Chattanooga Assembly Plant, coupled with a highly skilled workforce, create the ideal location for companies such as GEIGER Automotive to thrive.”

GEIGER produces highly engineered products for cooling and brake systems in relation to air and fluid management, and many other functional products under the hood. Jobs will be created in injection molding and assembly manufacturing, as well as support and professional positions.

“I am pleased to welcome GEIGER to our growing

The Jackson EMC commercial & industrial team on location at the new facility of client, Georgia Poultry Lab.

TO BE YOUR BESTPOWERTHE

COMMERCIAL + INDUSTRIAL DIVISION

770.963.6166 | jacksonemc.com

we pride ourselves

not only on what we provide our members,

but on how we provide it. Power is our

business, but our objective is satisfied

customers. Every day our employees work

to achieve the perfect balance between

advanced technology and personal service

to help our customers achieve their best.

Give us a call. We’ll show you how we

can help your team succeed.

At Jackson EMC,BRINGING YOU

JEMC_GaPoultry_GwinnEdge_0415_Layout 1 4/23/15 5:39 PM Page 1

News Desk

8 gwinnettedge

international business community,” Gwinnett Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash said. “Gwinnett is committed to supporting the expansion of international businesses to our community and to promoting the county as a prime destination for companies worldwide. We are glad that GEIGER has chosen to grow in our community and wish them continued success.”

“This is a great win for the City of Suwanee and we are thrilled to count GEIGER Automotive as one of our newest businesses,” said Suwanee Mayor Jimmy Burnette. “We are confident that they will find the support and resources in our community that are necessary to remain competitive in the U.S. and around the world.”

Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development continually works to leverage its diversity and access to global markets, establishing its reputation as a hub for international companies seeking to expand their presence in the United States.

“Twenty percent of Georgia’s German-based companies are located in Gwinnett County, which is why we are committed to expanding the investment of Europe’s largest

economy through the Partnership Gwinnett initiative,” said Nick Masino, Senior Vice President for Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development and Partnership Gwinnett. “We welcome GEIGER to our successful international business community.”

GEIGER has steadily grown to become one of the leading partners of the automotive industry. The company currently manufactures precision components and subassemblies at its other production locations in Germany, Mexico and China.

Georgia Department of Economic Development’s International Foreign Direct Investment Project Manager Nico Wijnberg assisted with this project, in collaboration with Lonnie Smallwood, Project Manager with Electric Cities of Georgia and Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development.

To learn more about GEIGER Automotive, please visit www.geigerautomotive.com. For more information or to learn how to get involved in local economic development efforts, please visit www.gwinnetteconomicdevelopment.com.

GSMST is at the Head of the Class Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology topsstate list on Washington Post's list of Most Challenging High Schools

The Washington Post recently ranked the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science, and Technology (GSMST) the top school in Georgia and was ranked 19th in the south and 26th out of 2,300 schools nationwide. The Post ranks schools using a “Challenge Index” that considers the number of students attempting tough courses as measured by enrollment and test-taking in Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and Advanced International Certificate of Education courses. The only other Georgia school in the top 100 nationwide is St. Andrew’s, a private school in Savannah, which ranked 97th. Gwinnett’s Meadowcreek High School ranked 140th nationally.

The following explanation of the “Challenge Index” was provided in the Washington Post: The list is based on the Challenge Index. Schools qualify only if they give at least as many AP, IB or AICE exams in a year as they have graduating seniors. They are then ranked by their tests-to-graduates ratio. The Index also includes a sampling of private schools. While the ranking considers the number of AP, IB and AICE tests given, it doesn’t weigh how well the students do.

How did Gwinnett high schools rank compared to their peers in Georgia on the Washington Post Challenge Index?

GSMST 1(ranked 19th in the South and 26th in the nation)

Meadowcreek HS 5(ranked 80th in the South and 140th in the nation)

North Gwinnett HS 10 Archer HS 21Berkmar HS 32 Parkview HS 34Brookwood HS 35 Norcross HS 43Peachtree Ridge HS 45 Mountain View HS 56Central Gwinnett HS 57 Mill Creek HS 61Dacula HS 62 Lanier HS 64Duluth HS 65 Collins Hill HS 72South Gwinnett HS 76 Grayson HS 83Shiloh HS 115

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ACCOLADES Transactions, Hires, Promotions & Honors

july/august 2015 9

Partnership Gwinnett

The Gwinnett Chamber and Partnership Gwinnet welcomes Becky Duran to the team where she will serve as the Economic Development and Partnership Gwinnett Coordinator. In this new role, Duran will provide operational support to economic development staff. Duran graduated from East Tennessee State University with a BS in Psychology/Business Management and holds a Master of Arts from Queens College in NC. Her career spans from the telecommunications industry to the recruiting/executive search industry.

Rubin Lublin, LLC

Law firm Rubin Lublin, LLC widens its breadth of real estate related services by expanding to include community association representation and retail settlement work led by new hire Amy Bray. Mrs. Bray joins the firm as senior counsel and is supervising attorney over the new practice areas. Amy Bray is an industry veteran, practicing real estate law since 1998. In her role as senior counsel, she will assist Rubin Lublin’s clients with both residential and commercial closings, community association law including drafting and interpreting the governing documents for homeowners associations, condominium associations, and commercial associations, as well as mixed use,

green and age-restricted community documents. She also has experience in negotiating and resolving complex covenant and easement issues in developments throughout the country. The Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

The Community Foundation for Northeast

Georgia recently announced that after serving this community for 40 years, Judy Waters will

officially be retiring later this year. Waters told the Foundation board late last year of her intent to close out her career in 2015, so they worked quickly to name a search committee that would oversee the recruitment effort to find the next Executive Director for the Community Foundation. After several months of an extensive search, The Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia is pleased to officially announce that Mr. Randy Redner has accepted the position of the next executive Director for the Community

Foundation. Redner is very familiar with Gwinnett County as he served for five years as Area Executive Director for the

American Cancer Society (ACS) in Duluth from 2005-2010. He left our community to serve as ACS’s Vice President where he managed the day-to-day operations for the society’s 14 field offices across the state of Georgia. While at ACS, Redner was responsible for a $21 million fundraising budget.

Buford Elementary School

State School Superintendent Richard Woods recently announced the finalists for 2016 Georgia Teacher of the Year. Among those finalists is Buford Elementary First Grade Teacher Patrick Logan.

This year marked his 19th year in education and his eighth year as a teacher in the Buford City School System. The 10 finalists

were chosen from a pool of 151 applicants who were selected as the Teacher of the Year in their school districts. The applications were read by a panel of judges that included teachers, past Georgia Teacher of the Year winners and finalists, administrators, community leaders and others. The finalists were chosen based on the strength of their essay responses.

Allgood Pest Solutions

Allgood Pest Solutions is pleased to announce that it has been selected as one of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s Top

Places to Work 2015. With more than 40 years of experience

serving the area, Allgood Pest Solutions is the greater Atlanta region’s premier pest control company. Allgood owner Chuck Tindol believes this award is a direct result of the company’s deep-seated belief that by taking care of its partners, its partners will take care of its customers. This thinking has cultivated a long-term strategy of customer loyalty that has proven successful for the business many times over. Tindol says the company’s corporate culture succeeds because of each team member’s commitment to treating others with the utmost respect and integrity.

DURAN

WATERS

BRAY

REDNER

“We were new to the Gwinnett area, and as I asked people for the best way to connect and get your name out, over and over I heard about the success people had had with the Gwinnett Chamber. The Chamber took a sincere interest in understanding our needs and goals. I give the Gwinnett Chamber a lot of credit to our ability to grow and be successful.”— Dan Campbell, Founder + CEO - Hire Dynamics

#ImaMemberGwinnett

10 gwinnettedge

News Desk

AROUND YOUR COMMUNITY

Forbes named Northside Hospital to its list of America’s Best Employers in a survey that polled U.S. employees across all industries. Northside Hospital ranks No. 23 in the list of 500 employers and is one of 14 Georgia employers included in the overall rankings. No other Georgia hospitals were ranked, and only one in the U.S.—the University of Iowa Hospital & Clinics—ranked higher than Northside Hospital. “Northside Hospital is honored to be included among the esteemed organizations on the Forbes list of America’s Best Employers,” said Bob Quattrocchi, president and CEO, Northside Hospital, Inc. “More so, we are proud that our employees have placed us in such high regard. Northside Hospital constantly seeks to foster an environment of professional and personal growth for every professional who works with us.”

Procurri Corporation, a global independent distributor of data center equipment and multi-vendor maintenance provider, has been named by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution (AJC) as one of the Top 75 Small Workplaces (149 or fewer employees) in the region. The annual ranking, announced on March 18, recognizes companies in the metro Atlanta area that make employees feel inspired and empowered to do great things. “We pride ourselves in the revolutionary approach of how we do things differently to add value to our partners and customers,” said Zack Sexton, president. “This starts internally with our employees who are encouraged and supported by the Procurri leadership team in a number of ways. We are elated and humbled that our employees love to come to work everyday and have helped Procurri claim a spot on the AJC’s list of top workplaces.”

Stephanie Engwall, a third-grade teacher at Shiloh Elementary School, will join 154 of her peers from around the country, for a week-long, all expense-paid professional development program. The Mickelson ExxonMobil Teachers Academy focuses on using real-world examples and hands-on experiments to build teacher and student excitement about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) learning. Participants will work with a curriculum developed by the National Science Teachers Association and Math Solutions. After the program, the participants will return to their classrooms reinvigorated with the passion to teach students how to be science literate, using hands-on experiments that show how math and science surround us daily.

The 2013-15 Suwanee SculpTour exhibit has officially ended, but two of the 14 pieces that were part of the 22-month walkable public art encounter will remain in Suwanee as part of the City’s permanent art collection. The Suwanee Public Arts Commission, using donated funds, purchased Iron Canopy by Phil Proctor as the People’s Choice award-winner. The 17-foot-tall kinetic sculpture derives its inspiration from the magic of trees and represents the idea that life supports life. Its permanent location has not yet been determined, but Iron Canopy will remain in its current location in Town Center Park near the intersection of Buford Highway and Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road through the next Suwanee SculpTour exhibit, which will be on display May 2015-March 2017. Dick Cunningham with Ippolito’s Restaurant is purchasing the Who Let the Dogs Out? collection of sculptures by Jim Collins and is donating the piece to the City.

NerdWallet recently released its second analysis of the best places for young families and it revealed numerous Gwinnett cities at the top of the list. From small country towns to quaint coastal areas and bustling historic cities, Georgia has something for everyone. But one of the biggest attractions is the lower cost of living: the median home price in Georgia is just $128,100. NerdWallet crunched the data for 156 places in Georgia— cities, towns and census-designated places. Only places with over 5,000 residents were analyzed. Here is where Gwinnett’s cities fell in the ranking: Buford – No. 7 Suwanee – No. 13Sugar Hill – No. 15 Loganville – No. 18Auburn – No. 23 Snellville – No. 31Duluth – No. 33 Lawrenceville – No. 51Lilburn – No. 54 Norcross – No. 65

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) isn’t just Georgia’s No. 1 hospital for the second consecutive year, it’s also No. 2 in the nation according to a recent study by CareChex, an independent healthcare quality rating service. The CareChex study includes virtually all general, acute, non-federal U.S. hospitals and measures them across several categories including quality of medical care, outcomes of care and patient satisfaction. The 2015 study rated NGMC No. 2 in the nation for ‘Overall Hospital Care.’ “To be named one of the top three hospitals in the nation, between other industry icons like Mayo Clinic’s flagship campus in Rochester, Minn., and University of Michigan Health System, is quite an honor,” says Carol Burrell, president and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System. “Our clinical staff, support staff, providers, board members, volunteers and leaders bring a passion for excellence to the table each day—striving to be better tomorrow that we are today—and it shows.”

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News and updates from inside the Chamber

The Pulse

july/august 2015 11

Partnership Gwinnett Announces Fundraising SuccessCelebrates 50 percent increase in fundraising effortsPartnership Gwinnett, Gwinnett County’s economic and community development initiative, announced it has raised $1.8 million from private sector investors in its 2014 campaign to fund the acceleration of its five-year economic growth strategy to recruit, retain and help expand businesses; attract, educate and retain workforce talent; and improve quality of life for county residents. The funds raised represent a greater than 50 percent increase over previous campaigns. A campaign victory and recognition event was held on April 15 to thank the campaign leadership for their work in making the campaign a success.

“We would not have had such a successful campaign without the depth of knowledge and experience that these business and community leaders bring to the campaign,” said Randy Dellinger, 2014 Partnership Gwinnett Campaign Chair and District Manager for Jackson EMC. “The Partnership Gwinnett campaign is proof that an operational and financial public-private partnership is the best approach to achieving sustainable growth in our community. We are extremely grateful to all of our investors.”

Dellinger, along with Nick Masino, Senior Vice President for Gwinnett Chamber Economic Development & Partnership Gwinnett, credited Amity Farrar and Sean Mikula of Atlanta-based fundraising firm POWER 10 for their excellent management of the campaign.

Masino said, “The goal of Partnership Gwinnett is simple: we want to increase direct investment in Gwinnett County while seeking opportunities for our existing industries to expand. Partnership Gwinnett has assisted in the expansion or recruitment of 186 businesses since its inception in 2007

and facilitated more than $1 billion in capital investment and the creation of more than 14,000 new jobs. Gwinnett has established itself as an attractive environment in which businesses invest and create new jobs. And with the generous support of our partners, Partnership Gwinnett will continue to maintain our reputation as one of the best place in the Southeast to live and do business.”

The Partnership Gwinnett campaign advisory and operations committee members recognized include: Randy Dellinger (Jackson EMC), J. Michael Levengood (Law Office of J. Michael Levengood, LLC), Taylor Anderson (Blue Landworks), Lisa Anders (Explore Gwinnett), Tom Andersen (Andersen, Tate & Carr, P.C.), Houston Bass (BB&T), Jimmy Burnette (City of Suwanee – Gwinnett Municipal Association), Bryan Cohen (Quantum Bank), Jill Edwards (Wells Fargo), Richard Fairey (BrandBank), Karen Fine (Primerica), Terry Fox (Fox Building Company), Jodie Huiet (AGL Resources/Atlanta Gas Light), Doug Jenkins (Georgia Power), Tim Le (Atlanta Maxim Realty), John Martin (Gwinnett Community Bank), Tom Martin (Gwinnett Community Bank), Charlotte Nash (Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners), Tony Parker (Pond & Company), Trey Ragsdale (Kaiser Permanente), Raymer Sale (E2E Resources), Tom Shepherd (Gwinnett Medical Center), Bill Sloan (Pond & Company), Sam Stiteler (MetroPower), Don Swift (Andersen, Tate & Carr, P.C.), Annie Valenty (Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta), Phil Wolfe (Gwinnett Medical Center), Chuck Warbington (Gwinnett Village CID), J. Alvin Wilbanks (Gwinnett County Public Schools) and Li Wong (Asian Times).

Partnership Gwinnett officials pose for a photo at an April 15 celebration.The group announced that it raised $1.8 million for economic and community development projects last year.

12 gwinnettedge

The Pulse

Congratulations to our finalists & winners!

>100organizations

10industries

>500nominations

BUILDER

American Painting &Renovations, Inc.

E&D Granite CityFreeland Painting

FS 360Garrard Group

JE Dunn ConstructionParker Young Construction and

FireStar

EDUCATION

Coles College of Business, Kennesaw State University

DeVry UniversityGeorgia Gwinnett College

Gwinnett Technical College

ITT Technical InsititutePhiladelphia College of

Osteopathic Medicine - GA Campus

Saint Leo UniversityThe University of Georgia

HEALTHCARE

Advanced UrologyGood Samaritan Health Center

of Gwinnett, Inc.Gwinnett OB/GYN Associates,

PCPeachtree Orthopaedic Clinic

ProCare Prosthetics &Orthotics

PruittHealthSports Medicine South, LLC

SurgiCare 360Suwanee Dental Care

HOSPITALITY

Aurora Theatre, Inc.Bahama BreezeDave & Buster's

Explore GwinnettFriends American Grill

Gwinnett Braves Baseball ClubGwinnett County Parks &

RecreationHampton Inn - Sugarloaf Pkwy

Heritage Golf LinksPappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

Residence Inn Atlanta NE -Duluth Sugarloaf

Sonesta at Gwinnett PlaceTitan Team Sports

Treetop Quest

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Anova ITGDP Technologies

Halski Systems, LLC

Horizon SoftwareInternational

Q-Matic CorporationRelus TechnologiesRFX Technologies

Rocket ITSpectrum Business

Presented by

AS AN INVESTOR IN THE GWINNETT CHAMBER OF

COMMERCE, BUSINESSES ARE ENTITLED TO A MULTITUDE

OF BENEFITS OFFERED TO MEMBERS:

Free listings and referrals to the Gwinnett Chamber’s online business directory

Free subscription to Gwinnett edge

Free access to the Small Business Resource Center and Dun & Bradstreet data

Access to networking opportunities and events

Access to forums and peer groups

Economic development assistance

Volunteer opportunities

Advertising, publicity, and sponsorship opportunities

Member-to-member discounts

Business referrals

Discounted group insurance

Discounted workers’ compensation premiums through Drugs Don’t Work

Ongoing business-building programs and seminars

Community involvement

Benefits of MembershipIt’s not just business as usual in Gwinnett. The potential dividends from an investment in the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce are unlimited, because what develops at the Chamber is up to you.

If you are interested in leading the way with us, visit gwinnettchamber.org and complete the online form. To schedule an appointment to explore the benefits of Chamber membership or to learn more about available resources at the Gwinnett Chamber, contact Vince DeSilva, senior vice president of member services, at 678-474-1703 or vince@gwinnettchamber.org.

We look forw

ard to helping you grow

your business!

july/august 2015 13

INTERNATIONAL

Atkins North America, Inc.Elesys North America, Inc.

Jones Lang LaSalleKraiburg-TPEMerial, Ltd.

MöInlycke Health CarePartnerTech, Inc.Pond & Company

Professional Development USARicoh Electronics

Rossini North America, LLCThe Marena Group

NONPROFIT

Alzheimer's Association -Georgia Chapter

American Cancer SocietyAmigos for ChristAnnandale Village

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta

Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia

Creative Communication Services

Family Promise of Gwinnett County

Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services

Goodwill of North GeorgiaGwinnett Children's Shelter,

Inc.Gwinnett Coalition for Health

Human ServicesHi-Hope Service Center

Junior Achievement of Georgia

Rainbow VillageStreetWise Georgia, Inc.

The Gwinnett Salvation Army

The Path ProjectUnited Way in Gwinnett

Wishes 4 Me Foundation, Inc.

SERVICE

12Stone® ChurchAlimena Limousine

Avion Energy

Cirrus Business GroupCresa

DelPhi Communications, Inc.Drew Eckl & Farnham, LLP

Foster & Whitmer Insurance

Georgia ManufacturingAlliance

Hire Dynamics, LLCMighty 8th Media, LLC

NOWaccountParadigm Security Services,

Inc.Porter Keadle Moore, LLCPre-Press to Printing, Inc.

Russell Landscape CompaniesSandler Training by Simon

ServiceMaster of GwinnettTJS Deemer Dana

Wilson Lewis

AMAZING ENTREPRENEUR

PRE-VENTUREBHEST Medical

Healthy Fit KitchenNicole Antoinette Consulting

SciSmart TutoringVanguard Consultants

ESTABLISHED BUSINESSFarmhouse 17

Post Retirement LivingPremier Protection Group

Sky High TutoringVon.Lea Creative

SMALL BUSINESS

Air Blowout SalonCartridge World -

LawrencevilleClassic Office Interiors

Green Financial Resources, LLC

LeCraw Engineering, Inc.

Marbury Creative GroupPalmetto Grant Consulting

Phillip Blount & Associates, Inc.Red Clay Interactive, Inc.

Signarama BufordSterling Rose Consulting Corp.

Talbert Insurance ServicesThe Morgan Law Group, PC

Wages & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematories

Willis Mechanical, Inc.

Hosted by

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R General Membership Meeting11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. | The 1818 ClubKevin Langston – Deputy Commissioner for Tourism, Georgia Department of Economic Development: Tourism Division, will provide an industry update and economic impact. COST: CHAMBER MEMBER - $45; NON-MEMBER - $55; CHAIRMAN'S CLUB - COMPLIMENTARY

Business After Hours5 - 7 p.m. | Discovery Village at SugarloafAttend Gwinnett’s largest (and award-winning! “Best Cocktail Hour in Gwinnett” – Gwinnett Magazine) networking event. Free to Chamber members, $10 for non-members and guests. Adults only, please.COST: CHAMBER MEMBER - FREE; NON-MEMBER - $15

HRMA11:45 a.m. – 1:15 p.m. | The 1818 ClubThe Human Resource Management Association (HRMA) is a group of human resource professionals in Gwinnett County and the surrounding region, networking, learning and sharing current issues related to human resource management. COST: HRMA MEMBER – FREE; CHAMBER MEMBER - $35; NON-MEMBER - $45

2015 Button Down Dash 5K/10K Race 6:30 - 10:30 a.m. | Gwinnett Chamber of CommerceToss your coat and tie, kick off your wingtips and get ready for a low-risk, high-reward race down Sugarloaf Parkway/Satellite Boulevard at the Gwinnett Chamber's 4th Annual Button Down Dash, presented by Gwinnett Medical Center. Visit ButtonDownDash.com for details. COST: 5K - $30, 10K - $35

JUL 15 WED

JUL 23THU

AUG 1

SAT

JUL 16 THU

AUG 11TUE

Manufacturing & Supply Chain Forum7:30 – 9 a.m. | Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce (Education Room)Learn how Gwinnett business, academic and government leaders are coming together to build a modernized system of work and education capable of equipping the manufacturing & supply chain workforce for 21st century careers.COST: GENERAL ADMISSION - $15, CHAMBER MEMBER - $12, PG INVESTOR OR MANUFACTURING COUNCIL MEMBER - $10

2015 Membership & Sponsorship Campaign Kickoff5 - 7 p.m. | The 1818 ClubJoin us for the official kick-off of the 2015 Membership and Sponsorship Campaign.COST: FREE

AUG 13THU

Gwinnettworking, held every Thursday at 7:30 a.m. and Friday at 9:00 a.m., is a networking group of Gwinnett Chamber members designed to build relationships, support professional development, and develop lead-generating affiliations. For more information, visit www.gwinnettworking.com.

July August

For more inform

ation visit:w

ww

.gwinnettcham

ber.org/events

Business Expo & Job Fair11:30 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. | Gwinnett CenterBeginning with the Chamber’s General Membership Meeting, intermingled informative and timely educational seminars and concluded with the Chamber’s largest Business After Hours, the 2015 Business Expo & Job Fair is packed with ways to make connections and learn about and from the area’s leading organizations.Visit GwinnettExpo.com for details.

HRMA11:45 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. | The 1818 ClubThe Human Resource Management Association (HRMA) is a group of human resource professionals in Gwinnett County and the surrounding region, networking, learning and sharing current issues related to human resource management.COST: HRMA MEMBER – FREE; CHAMBER MEMBER - $35; NON-MEMBER - $45

General Membership Meeting 11:30 a.m. - 1:15 p.m. | The 1818 ClubGwinnett County Public Schools Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks will present the annual State of the Schools Address. COST: CHAMBER MEMBER - $45; NON-MEMBER - $55; CHAIRMAN’S CLUB – COMPLIMENTARY

Business After Hours5 - 7 p.m. | Gwinnett Place MallAttend Gwinnett’s largest (and award-winning! “Best Cocktail Hour in Gwinnett” – Gwinnett Magazine) networking event. Free to Chamber members, $10 for non-members and guests. Adults only, please.COST: CHAMBER MEMBER - FREE; NON-MEMBER - $15

AUG 20THU

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BB&T's top achievers are driven by two powerful passions that drive their focus and energy: the organization's vision and mission. Since 1872, BB&T has operated on the principle that each individual is capable of making a positive impact on the organization. It's a belief that has allowed BB&T to evolve into one of the financial service

industry's highest performers. They provide the capital and counsel that foster business investment and economic growth, which in turn creates jobs. BB&T helps individuals realize their dreams. All of this is accomplished through sharing knowledge, providing insight, and delivering on a strong value proposition. And BB&T believes that when they are successful, all of their constituents benefit.

In this interview, Bruce Sharp, BB&T’s Market President for Northeast Atlanta, discusses how their mission and vision permeates through the entire institution. From guiding them through economic turbulence, helping clients reach their goals to giving back to the community, find out how BB&T’s vision and mission keeps them a constant in a changing industry.

Q With constant change in the banking industry, what factors have enabled BB&T to stand the test of time and weather the recent economic turbulence? A As you know, the ‘Great Recession’ was the most recent catalyst for change in the banking industry. Those businesses and individuals residing in markets that were highly sensitive to real estate, like metro Atlanta, had a particularly difficult time.

I am a big believer in developing lessons learned after our team has a good or bad experience. Similarly, at the corporate level, we have thought about what has sustained us over the years as we have helped clients during the Great Depression, the late 1980s/early 1990s commercial real estate crisis, the Dot.com bubble, and the most recent crisis. I believe that there are several lessons learned that I can share.

BB&T’s leadership many years ago established a clear vision and mission for the organization. Elements of our

16 gwinnettedge

The Pulse

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

vision and mission are discussed at nearly every team meeting at our company. At each level of BB&T, associates understand that it is the mission of the company to make the world a better place by helping clients achieve economic success and financial security; providing an environment where our associates can learn, grow and be fulfilled in their work; making the communities in which we work better places to be; and thereby optimizing the long term return to our shareholders, while providing a safe and sound investment.

The second factor that has been crucial to the BB&T’s ability to stay in business since 1872 has been client selection. I am still amazed at the creativity, work ethic and pride that our clients brought to their businesses under such trying times during the financial crisis. Our clients were open, honest and cooperative as we needed to gather more information in order to help us assist them with various credit needs. This challenging time reminded our bankers, moreover, that we should never forget that it is our responsibility to take a consultative approach with clients and truly advise them. We should help clients reduce their risk as they strive to achieve their goals, not create imprudent risk that makes them vulnerable, when the economy falters again.

Finally, along the way it never hurts to be a little lucky, although I would argue that hard work and sacrifice contributed to most of the good fortune for our company. For example, over the years BB&T has expanded into different businesses (BB&T is a full service financial institution) and has entered new geographic markets outside of its southeastern U.S. roots to communities in Maryland, Virginia, DC, West Virginia, Kentucky, and others. While some analysts questioned our decisions, the geographic diversity allowed us to weather the economic turbulence, as these cities were not as severely impacted as others. So, our organization did benefit from geography and good timing, not to mention a disciplined decision making process. Q How does BB&T support growing businesses? A I believe that businesses that are growing, particularly fast growing companies, require more frequent and mean-ingful face-to-face meetings with trusted advisors such as bankers, attorneys and accountants. Our relationship managers meet with clients regularly to assess the following needs of the business:

Standing the Test of Time with BB&TAn Interview with Bruce Sharp, BB&T's Market President for Northeast Atlanta

Capital Formation – finance the business growth Payment Solutions – manage the cash flow Risk Management – protect the business, its property, and

the employees Employee Benefits – attract and retain key talent Personal Financial Management – preserve and grow a

client’s money

The approach of our Northeast Atlanta team members, which are located in Duluth, is to spend time getting to know the management and ownership of these companies by asking questions to better understand their needs. Our banking professionals then offer advice first and product solutions after we agree with the client on the customized approach to solving the problem.

BB&T also has structured itself in a way that enables us to keep decision making close to the customer. BB&T’s com-munity banking model is based on empowering associates in each region to make decisions at the local level; hence, by having local relationship managers securing decisions from our leadership in Northern Georgia, we can be responsive to a client’s needs.

Q Why was it important for BB&T to support the Gwinnett Chamber's Impact Awards? A As I mentioned earlier, one critical aspect of our mission is to make the communities in which we work better places for our families, our businesses and our nonprofit organizations. If you think about it, a bank—and the banking community—is nothing more than the combined assets and liabilities of each individual and business that resides within it. As our community grows and, more importantly, prospers, so too should BB&T and banks in general. Therefore, it is important for our company to find ways to support both the business community and individuals residing within our community.

The Impact Awards sponsorship was one way to support not only specific companies that deserve recognition for the contributions that are made to Gwinnet and surrounding areas, but also the Chamber of Commerce. Our business community is fortunate to have an engaged and active chamber that is led by Dr. Kaufman. BB&T was excited to be a part of this inaugural event, which I hope will become a signature program for many years to come.

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JULY 17Complete Desire *(SCS)Thrasher Park

JULY 18Jazz in the AlleyGabbie McGeeSkin Alley

JULY 31Walrus *(SCS)Thrasher Park

AUGUST 147 Bridges *(SCS)Thrasher Park

AUGUST 28Banks & Shane *(SCS)Thrasher Park

AUGUST 29Jazz in the AlleyEric Thomas &Elevate the QuestSkin Alley

SEPTEMBER 4A1A *(SCS)Thrasher Park

SEPTEMBER 12British Car FayreDowntown Historic Norcross

SEPTEMBER 19 Gateway International FestivalLillian Webb Park

SEPTEMBER 26Jazz in the AlleyWillie Ziavino C.O.T BandSkin Alley

SEPTEMBER 26Mega Recycling Day

OCTOBER 2First Friday Concert DejaBlue Grass BandCommunity Center

OCTOBER 3 & 4Norcross Art SplashDowntown Historic Norcross

OCTOBER 24 BOOfest Halloween CelebrationDowntown Historic Norcross

NOVEMBER 6 First Friday Concert- Xavier Gordon TrioCommunity Center

NOVEMBER 7 Italian Car DayDowntown HistoricNorcross

DECEMBER 4 & 5SPARKLE! • Carriage Rides• Community Tree Lighting• Holiday Tour of Homes• Santa Visit• Luminary Lighting and more!

DECEMBER 4 Holiday Concertwith the Gentlemenof SwingCommunity Center

Visit the new A Place to Imagine website for event detailswww.aplacetoimagine.com

*SCS- Summer Concert Series

1 2

A gallery of photos from noteworthy happenings in and around Gwinnett.Out & About

3

july/august 2015 19

Around the Community (1) Gwinnett Chamber staff and members spent Friday, May 8 spring cleaning at George Pierce Park on our annual Chamber Gives Back day. Volunteers planted and refurbished green spaces and spruced up the park for summer activities. (2) Gwinnett Chamber Professionals were on-hand at the Tuesday, April 14 Board of Commissioners meeting to witness Chairman Charlotte Nash sign the proclamation for the 2015 Gwinnett Small Business Week (June 15-19). (3) The staff of the Gwinnett Chamber participated in Annandale Village’s annual Jazzy Thing fundraiser on Saturday, April 25, and took home first prize in the Spicy Bites contest.

Women’s Wine Tasting Business Connection(1) Held at the Town Green in Duluth, the Gwinnett Leadership Organization for Women hosted its 2nd annual Women’s Wine Tasting Business Connection on Tuesday, May 19. (2) The evening featured a beautiful backdrop, string quartet, wine tastings and samplings from local restaurants. (3) Most importantly, it provided the ideal setting for female professionals to network in a relaxed environment.

1 2 3

1 2 3

IMPACT Regional Business Awards(1) The Chamber hosted the IMPACT Regional Business Awards on Wednesday, May 13 at the Gwinnett Center. (2) The inaugural event garnered 500+ nominations and honored 55+ finalist organizations across ten industry categories. (3) Nick Williams, Chief Development Officer at PruittHealth, accepted the Overall IMPACT Regional Business Award on behalf of his organization.

20 gwinnettedge

The Pulse

AS A NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION, THE GWINNETT CHAMBER’S WORK WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE SUPPORT AND CONTRIBUTIONS MADE BY MANY DEDICATED COMPANIES AND INDIVIDUALS.

THE CHAMBER WOULD LIKE TO SHOW SINCERE APPRECIATION AND GRATITUDE TO THE FOLLOWING SPONSORS WHO SUPPORTED RECENT CHAMBER PROGRAMS AND EVENTS.

OUR SPONSORS

NUMBERS GAME

n Ackerman Security Systems

n American Management

Services, Inc.

n Ameriprise Financial

n Andersen, Tate & Carr, PC

n Aurora Theatre, Inc.

n Burkett Oil Company, Inc.

n Children's Healthcare of

Atlanta

n Cirrus Business Group

n Dave & Buster's

n Delta Community Credit

Union

n Delta Kappa Gamma

n Dr. Dan & Kathryn Kaufman

n E.R. Snell Contractor, Inc.

n Eastside Medical Center

n EMC Security

n Evermore Community

Improvement District

n Forensic Pathology Services,

PC

n Georgia Power

n Gwinnett Center

n Gwinnett County Public

Schools Foundation, Inc.

n Gwinnett Daily Post

n Gwinnett Medical Center

n Gwinnett Prado, LP

n Gwinnett Technical College

n Jackson Electric Membership

Corporation

n Kaiser Permente

n Keeprs

n McKendree United Methodist

Church

n Mingledorff's, Inc.

n Mobile Communications of

Gwinnett, Inc.

n Motorola Solutions, Inc.

n North Fulton Community

Improvement District

n Peach State Federal Credit

Union

n Philadelphia College of

Osteopathic Medicine -

Georgia Campus

n Precision Planning, Inc.

n Pre-Press to Printing, Inc.

n Proof of the Pudding

n Rocket IT

n Snellville Citizens Police

Academy Alumni

Association

n SunTrust Bank

n T.Y. Lin International

Company

n The Gravitt Everett Davis

Memorial Lodge #66 -

Fraternal Order of Police

n Thomco Specialty Products,

Inc.

n TOMCO2 Systems

n Transafe, Inc.

n University of Georgia

Gwinnett Campus

n View Point Health

n Water Oak Center

n Wells Fargo

$5.1 billion THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE FILM INDUSTRYREPORTED BY THE STATE DURING THE 2014 FISCAL YEARSOURCE: GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY,

GWINNETT CHAMBER MEMBERS!JULY & AUGUST ANNIVERSARIES

25+ YEAR MEMBERA-A Electric Company, Inc.(35 years)

Gwinnett County Public Library(34 years)

Associated Credit Union(31 years)

Staffing Resources, Inc.(30 years)

RACO General Contractors, Inc.(30 years)

Sonoco Paperboard Specialties(30 years)

Brunswick Zone Lilburn(28 years)

IDI(26 years)

Carothers & Mitchell, LLC(24 years)

20+ YEAR MEMBERAtlanta Braves(20 years)

B P B Services(20 years)

15 YEAR MEMBERGeorgia Gwinnett College

Peoples Bank & Trust

AutoNation Toyota Scion Mall of Georgia

Chateau Elan Winery & Resort

Corus Group, LLC

The Davis Companies

Habasit America

Hilton Graden Inn - Atlanta NE/ GwinnettSugarloaf

Hire Dynamics, LLC

Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen

PartnerTech, Inc.

Primrose School of Suwanee West

Zanacore Technologies

10 YEAR MEMBERAngus McRae Insurance Brokerage Services,Inc.

The Foot Traveler

Gwinnett Place Community ImprovementDistrict

Gwinnett Village CID

LIFESouth Community Blood Centers

Partnership for Community Action, Inc.

Resurgens Orthopaedics

Comfort Inn & Suites Peachtree Corners

Rocket IT

5 YEAR MEMBERBobby L. Scott, CPA

Classic Office Interiors

100 Black Men of North Metro, Inc.

Tokio Marine Technologies, LLC

Arena Tavern

Coolray Heating and Cooling, Inc.

Jennifer Stalcup Photography

Lilburn Community Improvement District

Pro-Bots Promotional Robots

Raymond C. Lyew, DDS, PC

Simon - Mall of Georgia

BUSINESSES OF THE MONTH

MAY small business JUNE small business

“We have a saying in the beer business that “making friends is our business” and we will take that same philosophy to the studio. We hope that our first tenant will become friends and see value in what we have to offer.” - Steve Economos, Eagle Rock

Gwinnett’s Superheroes are Here to Save the Day!

july/august 2015 23

While their powers may not be of the supernatural type such as wall crawling, x-ray vision, shape shifting or super strength, a new cast of leaders in Gwinnett is emerging whose vision has the potential to leave an economic and cultural impact that will be felt for many years to come. And although their powers may not give them the ability to save the universe, they do share a commonality with the superheroes cast in familiar comics—they

use their abilities for the common good.

Gwinnett’s leaders are putting their abilities to think big and make things happen to work in order to harness the film industry’s migration to the South. According to a recent study released by the nonprofit FilmL.A., Georgia is now ranked third for the most movies filmed in the United States. In addition, the study also revealed that Georgia was only two movies away from beating California as the filmmaking capital of the world.

With the stakes high—Georgia Department of Economic Development reported that the economic impact of the film industry for the 2014 fiscal year was $5.1 billion—Gwinnett has its very own set of superheroes who are ready for action. So grab your cape and put on your mask as we explore Gwinnett’s film industry superheroes.

Atlanta Media Campus:A Catalyst for the Community

Spearheaded by developer Jim Jacoby, Atlanta Media Campus is situated at the gateway to Gwinnett in the Jimmy Carter Boulevard corridor and is set to be the largest of its kind in the Southeast. Located at the OFS facility in Norcross, Jacoby has entered into a partnership with the fiber-optic cable plant to transform the building into a media campus that will encompass 6 million square feet of studio space with seven soundstages, classrooms, offices, multifamily housing, hotels, restaurants and more. The multi-stage process will also involve the building of a new facility for OFS, which will be located on the premises.

The beauty of the Atlanta Media Campus, according to Derek Jacoby who serves as vice president and manages the project, is that it is an all-inclusive community-focused endeavour. It is expected that the Campus and its accompanying studio will have a significant economic impact, creating hundreds – if not thousands – of jobs in Gwinnett.

“The local community's involvement in the project is vital to its success: our regional supporters are the true superheroes of the film industry growth in Gwinnett,” said Derek. “Our experience with the public sector in Gwinnett has been refreshing. From the County, the City of Norcross, Gwinnett Village Community Improvement District to the Gwinnett Chamber—I simply couldn’t ask for a better region.”

In return, Derek ensures that the project’s visionary, Jim Jacoby, intends to make it his legacy project focusing not just on development, but on education, jobs and sustainability.

“We have set out to make Atlanta Media Campus a catalyst not just for the Jimmy Carter corridor, but for the entire region, state and the country,” said Derek. “Part of the vision for the campus is to develop it in such a way that keeps people in Gwinnett while helping local companies realize the economic impact of the film industry with minimal impact on the environment.”

With the largest back lot in the country and no residential component to disturb along with an immense amount of space that has yet to be fully realized, Atlanta Media Campus is meeting the needs of the film industry even at the beginning of the multi-phase project. Having recently filmed the AMC series “Halt and Catch Fire” and full-length move “Mena,” starring Tom Cruise—the best is yet to come.

“Our hope is not to be the new Hollywood, but rather the third leg of the creative stool,” said Derek. “Working together as a region, our efforts at Atlanta Media Campus are to complement Hollywood and create a value proposition.”

And complement it they will. At the heart of Atlanta Media Campus is META Studios, which seeks to design and nurture an environment for projects to be developed across multiple media, thus, maximizing the potential of any piece of intellectual property. Led by famed cross-media creator Paul Jenkins (author of “Marvel’s Wolverine: Origin” and two time BAFTA nominee) along with an executive team of film industry experts, the goal of META Studios is to attract projects from across the world and help develop them in the appropriate arenas.

“With META Studios at our disposal, we have the opportunity to all work on the same storyline giving the ability for product integration, “ said Derek. “Right now everyone is working on different development cycles. META Studios will become the first and only studio of its kind to bring all of the different mediums together to create the same message. Paul brings 25 years of experience creating across all media, including writing and directing for animation, comics, games and new media.”

With the META Campus' 2.2 million square feet of space being developed to over nearly 6 million square feet in the next 5-10 years, META Studios is at the forefront of a truly unique and exhilarating point in history for Georgia entertainment. “We are becoming the ‘one-stop shop,’ helping co-producers and creators to leverage the tax

credits for film and game development,” commented Derek. “This has helped Georgia propel our state to the forefront of entertainment.”

The credit also extends to post production for films "lensed" in Georgia. In addition, the recent extension of tax credits for interactive entertainment means that both films and games fit the tax credit criteria.

In addition to providing post-production and assisting with project financing, META Studios will be aligned with a number of regional universities to help educate and retain

By the NumbersFast & Furious 7

$47 MillionDollars contributed to the state’s economy by

Universal Pictures' "Furious 7," which filmed in Norcross

7,500Number of Georgians hired to work on the film

$15 millionOverall hotel costs for cast and crew

$5 MillionCost of hardware and lumber supplies used to build sets, including an opulent Abu Dhabi penthouse, a

cement factory, federal law enforcement headquarters and sets for scenes that would feature a helicopter

$143.6 million‘Furious 7’ opening weekend numbers, setting a record

for the best April opening weekend EVER, as well as and had the best opening in the series, making almost

as much in one weekend as the original made total24 gwinnettedge

july/august 2015 25

local college graduates. Students from high schools and universities across the region will be attached to professional projects, and given the type of hands-on education that will provide valuable credits and experience that cannot be found elsewhere.

“When looking to break into the film industry, one of the biggest challenges is building a resume. Students will leave with two to three big movies under their belts as they will be in an integrated learning environment,” said Derek. “Having student housing and classrooms located on the campus is simply a win-win. All within the confines of Gwinnett, students will be able to learn from industry experts and film crews.”

Even better for Gwinnett, after graduating, students will have the opportunity to move on to the multi-family and studio housing that will be located on the Atlanta Media Campus. In addition to housing, the project also includes a 4-star hotel catering to high-end talent, as well as a value hotel for support staff.

Being home to the largest studio of its kind in the Southeast also has another distinct advantage—it will give those in

Gwinnett and the metro area the ultimate backstage pass. With plans for a music venue, restaurants and possibly even a theme park made of past sets, there will be something for everyone at the Atlanta Media Campus.

And according to Derek, all of this will be housed in a sustainable environment with a closed-loop system. With a newer ‘no more cutting down trees’ approach, Jacoby Group intends to make Atlanta Media Campus a showcase for sustainability garnering global exposure.

“Jacoby Group is committed to the environment and as such has expanded its focus from initial endeavors in "traditional" retail center development to a broader vision of embracing and promoting environmental stewardship,” said Derek. “Atlanta Media Campus will run on a system which will include elements such as solar power, rainwater irrigation, and hydroponic food production.”

To borrow a line from “Captain America,” which recently filmed at Atlanta Media Campus, Derek Jacoby and his team of superheroes will continue to ‘fight the good fight’ for the common good in their efforts to strengthen the film industry in Gwinnett and the region.

Eagle Rock Studios

Atlanta: Bringing

Jobs and TV to

Gwinnett

Joining Gwinnett’s cast of film

industry superheroes in April 2015, Eagle Rock Studios Atlanta houses the

largest stage complex under one roof in the United States with 465,000 square feet of space.

Located at 6205 Best Friend Road in Norcross, the former Kraft warehouse space was converted to house four, 30,000-square-foot sound stages. It is also the site of Eagle Rock Distributing Company, a beverage distribution company.

In addition to Georgia being ranked third for the most movies filmed in the United States, Deadline recently reported that Atlanta was positioned in fourth place for TV pilot production beating major cities such as New Orleans and Chicago. Deadline also indicated that Georgia’s tax incentives have pushed Atlanta to fourth place with four drama pilots, which is twice as many as last year. With all the right elements in place, Eagle Rock Studios Atlanta is ready for action as it sets its sights on new productions.

The construction project included the installation of support beams to create larger open spaces for filming; upgrades to the electrical service; silent air conditioning;

stubbed out plumbing for dressing rooms, prop and costume areas, and renovation of existing offices for production staff. Eagle Rock’s fully enclosed facility allows for production throughout the year, eliminating costs and weather delays, translating to greater local job opportunities.

Further extending its abilities, Eagle Rock Studios Atlanta recently joined five other Georgia-based film studios to form the Georgia Studio & Infrastructure Alliance (GSIA), a new film and television studio and infrastructure association. The group hopes to serve as advocates for the education of crewmembers and the development of talent needed to keep clients returning to Georgia.

In this article, the Gwinnett Chamber gets an inside look at one of Gwinnett’s newest film industry superheroes as Steve Economos, CEO of Eagle Rock Distributing Company, shares how a beer distribution company got into the film industry business, how they are working to meet the film industry’s needs and the importance of forming alliances with other studios in Georgia.

26 gwinnettedge

1How did a beer distribution company get into the film industry? Timing. We had outgrown our two prior facilities and we were moving into a new facility in Norcross. We owned our facilities so we were looking to sell or lease the old buildings. In the beer business we are required to refrigerate our inventory so we have thick

insulated walls and air conditioning cooling our product. This happens to also be key components when filming. The Disney / ABC Television Group heard about our location in Stone Mountain, came to take a look, liked what they saw and we were able to make a deal with them. So we really got started in the business back in 2013 at our old facility. Fast-forward to our new location in Norcross and it was also an old building that we bought from Kraft foods. There are actually two buildings, a climate-controlled building and a dry building. Eagle Rock Distributing Company was only going to occupy the climate-controlled side so we always had plans to lease out the dry side. It’s 465,000 square feet and the largest warehouse north of the perimeter that is not 50-60 miles outside the city, so if a company wanted to make Atlanta their home we had an attractive warehouse to offer. As Disney / ABC continued to operate out of Stone Mountain, the more we got to know the producers and staff. We invited them to come look at our Norcross facility and see if it was conducive to the needs of Hollywood. After a couple of month’s worth of meetings, we decided to build the largest set production studios under one roof in the country.

2Now that everything is up and running, what's next? What’s next is to get that space filled! We believe we partnered with the right folks from the

industry to design the best operating studio system out there. It is a studio that will provide any production entity a place to put their roots down in Georgia and call this place their home away from home. If it were not for the industry people, government and counties working together, the tax credit would not have happened and we could not have accomplished such an endeavor. We are a family owned business that runs three generations deep. I am fortunate enough to work every day with my family. We have strong ties to the community and Gwinnett and we want to continue to grow and provide jobs in Georgia.

3How will you continue to fill the space? You are as good as the people you work with. This is true when it comes to the

studio. We have been able to partner with industry experts throughout the entire process. We were able to hire Doug Nicely who is our executive vice president of 0perations. He has over 30 years of experience in the business and his expertise and connections will allow us to continue to talk to the right contacts in Hollywood and keep the studio booked up. We have a saying in the beer business that “making friends is our business” and we will take that same philosophy to the studio. We hope that our first tenant will become friends and see value in what we have to offer.

4Discuss your efforts with the Georgia Studio & Infrastructure Alliance. Why is it important? I think the Alliance is critical. With the growing demand for studio infrastructure in Georgia we need to work together to ensure we are exceeding

the expectations of Hollywood and Georgia continues to be an attractive option to shoot a movie or TV show. We work well together and understand the importance of keeping Georgia on Hollywood’s map.

Known as the fastest sport on two feet, lacrosse has seen its participation numbers skyrocket across the country over the last decade. According to a survey released by US Lacrosse, in 2013 nearly 750,000 players participated in lacrosse on organized teams, an increase of nearly 25,000 players from the year before. Here in the football-crazed

South, it is becoming the fastest growing transplant since kudzu spreading quickly and growing roots across the region.

With the recent announcement of the relocation of the Minnesota Swarm of the National Lacrosse League for the the 2016 NLL season, Gwinnett is the latest area to join the lacrosse momentum that is making its way to the South.

The franchise will be named the Georgia Swarm and has agreed in principle on a lease agreement to play its home games at The Arena at Gwinnett Center.

Hey

Y 'all!

Professional Lacrosse is Coming to GwinnettSwarm announces relocation plans to metro Atlanta area

28 gwinnettedge

july/august 2015 29

“It is an exciting time as we open a new chapter in team history,” Swarm Owner John Arlotta said. “The sport of lacrosse is growing at a rapid pace in Georgia and we’re thrilled to bring the fastest game on two feet at the professional level to The Arena at Gwinnett Center. With its high-scoring nature, and gameplay which resembles hockey and basketball in many ways, the NLL is enjoyable for lacrosse and non-lacrosse fans alike, and is great family entertainment.”

“Lacrosse is a great sport and it will add another dimension to family entertainment at Gwinnett Center and in metro-Atlanta as well,” said Joseph Dennis, general manager of Gwinnett Center. “We are excited to have the National Lacrosse League as a tenant team in The Arena for years to come.”

“The Arena at Gwinnett Center is a beautiful arena and a wonderful location for our franchise and we really appreciate the support of the arena and the county commissioners,” Swarm Co-Owner and President Andy Arlotta said.

The Swarm is currently comprised with one of the fastest and most athletic rosters in the NLL, which features young stars Miles Thompson (‘14 Co-Tewaaraton recipient, UAlbany), Jordan MacIntosh (Gold Medalist, Team Canada ‘14), Joel White (2-time NCAA champion, Syracuse University), Johnny Powless (3-time NLL champion), Shayne Jackson (‘15 team leader in scoring), Kiel Matisz (‘12 No. 3 overall pick) as well as veterans Callum Crawford (team’s all-time leading scorer) and Mitch Belisle (‘14 U.S. Men’s National Team Member)..l,.

This coming fall, the Swarm will hold a league-high four first-round draft picks in the 2015 NLL Draft with selection Nos. 1, 3, 5 and 6. This year’s draft class is highly regarded as one of the best in recent memory and features the NCAA’s all-time division-I points leader, University at Albany’s Lyle Thompson (Miles’ younger brother).

“On behalf of the entire NLL, we are excited about coming to Georgia,” NLL Commissioner George Daniel said. "NLL Lacrosse is an action packed, high energy spectacle unlike anything the fans of metro Atlanta have ever seen.”

“The Swarm will be the first professional Lacrosse team to locate in the Southeast. For them to choose Gwinnett and the Atlanta area speaks volumes about the sports destination that we have become. I hope that we all are getting ready to join the Swarm nation!”– Stan Hall, Executive Director, Gwinnett Sports Commission

For more information about upcoming events:www.DuluthGA.net

During their 11 seasons in the NLL, the Swarm has been heavily involved in the lacrosse community and received numerous awards for its dedication and time devoted to growing the sport. The team is looking forward to continuing its efforts now in Georgia.

“It’s always been our mission to help grow and aid the sport of lacrosse as much as we can,” (Andy) Arlotta said. “We’re excited to introduce ourselves to members of both the local lacrosse and business community in the coming weeks.”

The Swarm’s application to relocate to Georgia has been approved by the NLL.

“The Georgia Swarm will be a fantastic addition to the entertainment package available at The Arena at Gwinnett Center. Lacrosse is the fastest growing sport in the nation and is a very quick- paced sport as well,” commented Stan Hall, executive director, Gwinnett Sports Commission.

“To have these participants playing in our Arena at the highest skill level possible as professionals, will be truly an awesome experience,” continued Hall. “The Swarm will be the first professional Lacrosse team to locate in the Southeast. For them to choose Gwinnett and the Atlanta area speaks volumes about the sports destination that we have become. I hope that we all are getting ready to join the Swarm nation!”

Fans can receive updates about the franchise by visiting www.GeorgiaSwarm.com and team’s social media accounts: @GeorgiaSwarmLAX on Twitter, Georgia Swarm on Facebook and @GeorgiaSwarmLAX on Instagram. The team will host a press conference this summer at The Arena at Gwinnett Center to introduce management and players to local media members and fans.

Information regarding 2016 tickets will be available online in the near future. To sign up for ticket updates, please visit www.GeorgiaSwarm.com

“On behalf of the entire NLL, we are excited about coming to Georgia,” NLL Commissioner George Daniel said. "NLL Lacrosse is an action packed, high energy spectacle unlike anything the fans of metro Atlanta have ever seen.”

july/august 2015 31

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A Live, Work, Play Community

july/august 2015 33

WH

ERE

IN THE WORLD IS

Nick Masino?

Germany, Hong Kong, South Korea, China… the exotic, far-flung locales on Nick Masino’s passport would make any TSA agent look twice, and travel aficionados

swoon with jealousy. But Nick isn’t exploring Neuschwanstein Castle, shopping street markets, searching for Psy, or climbing the Great Wall of China (well…maybe once).

Masino serves as Senior Vice President of Partnership Gwinnett, the economic development arm of the Gwinnett Chamber. A public-private initiative dedicated to bringing new jobs and capital investment to our community, Partnership Gwinnett works with local partners to attract and retain jobs, cultivate capital investment, support educational institutions, foster workforce development, and contribute to the exceptional quality of life found in Gwinnett.

In a community of Gwinnett County’s size and diversity, responding to globalization is an essential part of the economic development strategy. Global business has been an instrumental component of the organization’s overall strategic plan since inception in 2006. Partnership Gwinnett’s Global Business Outreach Efforts are a coordinated mix of resources, programs, mission trips, and partnerships engaging companies, leaders, and students from across Gwinnett County. This work is a direct response to the community’s changing demographics, growing international notoriety, and the evolving, global-focused environment guiding the business world.

Which brings us to Masino’s world travels – and the necessity for them.

“These trips present a world of opportunities for continued economic development success,” said Masino. “We want to create more job opportunities in our community and build our commercial tax base to lessen the burden on Gwinnett residential and business property owners, fueling global business opportunities are crucial to these efforts."

To date, Partnership Gwinnett has coordinated 16 global mission trips which have included visits to approximately 250 international companies with dozens metro Atlanta community partners, including the Georgia Department of Economic Development, along with dozens of internationals governments and partner organizations. These trips are efforts to meet three goals: 1. Raise the global profile of Gwinnett as a thriving, international, business-friendly community; 2. Maximize the opportunity presented by the growing international population in the County; 3. Enable local companies to gain a competitive edge in an increasingly global business environment. This translates into three specific objectives which guide global business outreach and efforts: a. Bring additional jobs and investment to Gwinnett County through the addition of internationally-based businesses and trade relations;

34 gwinnettedge

july/august 2015 35

b. Lead annual global business missions, attended by public and private partners, to attract and cultivate direct foreign investment and trade to the community; c. Enable businesses to explore new opportunities, trends, and best practices for success in a constantly changing international market. Expanding internationally is often a necessary, yet uncertain, step for many companies. Educational events seek to inform and encourage this next phase of a business’ evolution.

Globally recognized for best practices in economic development by the International Economic Development Council, Gwinnett County is a proven location for international companies looking to expand their global reach. The County is home to 600 internationally-based businesses, representing more than 40 countries around the world. The largest

April 2008 – Canada Vancouver

April/May 2009 – South Korea Seoul, Gangnam-gu

August 2009 – South Korea Seoul, Gangnam-gu & Incheon

June 2009 – China & South Korea Shanghai, Beijing, Qingdao, Kunshan, Wuxi, Xi’an, Seoul, Gangnam-gu

November 2009 – China Wuxi, Kunshan, Xi’an, Shanghai

January 2010 – China “Large Delegation Planning Trip” Shanghai, Kunshan, Qingdao, Beijing, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Wuxi & Hong Kong

June/July 2010 – China & South Korea “Large Delegation” Qingdao, Beijing, Shanghai, Kunshan, Wuxi Hong Kong & Incheon

November 2010 – China, South Korea & Taiwan Incheon, Taipei

December 2010 – South Korea Seoul

March 2011 – China Shanghai, Hong Kong

April 2012 – China Shanghai

June 2012 – China Shanghai

December 2012 – France & Germany Paris, Lyon, Frankfurt, Munich, Kirchlengern & Cologne

August 2013 – China and Japan Qingdao & Tokyo

May 2014 – South Korea Seoul, Gangnam-gu, Cheonan, Wanju-gun, Jeonju, Ulsan & Busan

December 2014 – England London

April 2015 – China Shenzhen, Jinan, Qingdao & Shanghai

May 2015 – Canada Toronto

Passport Pinpoints

August 2014China/South Korea Agendaand Meetings Schedule

08/21 – Depart from ATL

08/22 – Arrive in Hong Kong

08/23 – Hong Kong

08/24 – Guangzhou 08/25 – Fuzhou

08/26 – Nanjing and Taizhou

08/27 – Shanghai

08/28 – Shanghai

08/29 – Ningbo 08/30 – Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea

08/31 – Gangnam, Seoul, South Korea

09/01 – Depart for ATL

clusters are of Japan-based and German-based companies, which represent 21.5 percent and 16.6 percent, respectively, of the total international businesses located in Gwinnett. The global mission trips aim to expand that number and attract more jobs and foreign direct investment into the community.

"The Partnership Gwinnett community and economic development strategy and its investors have facilitated the creation of high-wage jobs – more than 10,000 in the last five years," said Masino. "That is why it is now more crucial than ever that we continue expanding our economic development initiatives internationally."

Partnership Gwinnett’s efforts have resulted in the recruitment and expansion of 36 internationally-based businesses in Gwinnett County since 2007, leading to more than 1,410 new jobs for Gwinnett residents and $56.8 million in capital investment for the community.

This comprehensive global outreach effort is innovative in that it addresses and proactively aids both sides of the economic development equation: it both attracts foreign businesses to Gwinnett and helps existing companies leverage the community’s numerous resources and overseas trade opportunities. Although Partnership Gwinnett serves existing global companies and offers opportunities for engagement, globalization efforts are not solely focused inward. Masino has seen great

36 gwinnettedge

july/august 2015 37

success through the development of relationships, trade, and investment externally by visiting with prospects and companies in their home countries.

“For European companies particularly, where many decisions about the U.S. location are made at home, visiting a company’s global headquarters is an essential way to develop a strong relationship and build retention,” said Masino.

Gwinnett County offers several assets that have spurred global response. Situated less than four hours from two of Georgia’s ports, Gwinnett is also just a 30-minute drive from the world’s busiest, most efficient airport. These assets play a supporting role to the diverse and global community that comprises Gwinnett. The most diverse community in the Southeast – with a diversity index of 76.1 percent – about one of every five Gwinnett residents was born outside of the

United States, and Gwinnett County Public Schools students speak more than 60 languages and dialects.

Given that any economic development organization leverages its local assets to bring companies, jobs, and investments to its community, Gwinnett’s diverse population and international business base have driven Partnership Gwinnett’s global outreach and efforts.

"A primary goal of Partnership Gwinnett's efforts is to increase foreign investment in Gwinnett while seeking opportunities for existing industries to expand," said Masino. "To develop relationships with partners globally not only provides international business opportunities, but also leverages multiple thriving economies to support economic stability.”

We are healers. We are life changers.

While we’ve always been known for care and compassion, today,

we’ve become one of the leading health systems in Georgia.

What was once thought to be unachievable, we do daily.

We’re setting the pace of modern medicine. From open heart

surgery and groundbreaking cancer care to a Level III neonatal

intensive care unit, we’re pushing the boundaries of technology.

Because progress never stops, and neither do we.

This is Gwinnett Medical Center. This is now.

Transforming Healthcare

Ranked top large hospital in the state - Georgia Trend

Insights from local experts and executives

Strategies

COMMUNITY

this issue: [39] community [42] technology [44] business [46] perspectives

july/august 2015 39

Strengthening Communities,Changing LivesGwinnett Habitat for Humanity and Thrivent Financial Partner for Community Success[by Rachel Perez]

WHAT DO YOU SAY ABOUT A COMPANY THAT helps their customers become good stewards of their finances while helping them grow their money and also live generously? Two words that come to mind are: awesome and inspiring.

Thrivent Financial is that company. What most people don’t know is that Thrivent Financial was founded more than 100 years ago to help Lutheran immigrants find a path to greater economic independence. Thrivent is a membership organization of Christians that helps families and individuals throughout the United States be wise with their money and live generously.

Thrivent believes that all we have is a gift from God and that generosity is an expression of faith. Thrivent supports

this message by having contributed $54.9 million in grant funds in 2014 in the U.S. and overseas.

Right here in Gwinnett County, Thrivent Financial is busy at work helping Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity with “strengthening communities and changing lives.” This theme is at the core of Thrivent Financial’s mission and reflects one of their core values of providing opportunities to demonstrate generosity where one lives, works and worships.

Through the strong partnership Thrivent has developed with Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity, it brings its financial, volunteer and advocacy resources to help provide and build affordable housing and construction in Gwinnett County to aid low income families in need of affordable

Strategies COMMUNITY

40 gwinnettedge

housing. Thrivent Builds with Habitat for Humanity, now in its 10th year nationally, is the name of this impactful partnership.

Don Goldsmith works for Thrivent Financial and is a new board member on Gwinnett Habitat’s Board of Directors. When asked his thoughts about getting families out of poverty through homeownership, Don stated “I have personally seen what a difference it makes to own a home versus being a renter. It’s a whole different level of care and responsibility you show toward your home—it’s a difference in your pride of ownership. I am a strong supporter of Gwinnett Habitat giving a hand up, not a hand out. And I find the way that Habitat goes about addressing the issue of substandard housing and affordable housing both honorable and rewarding.”

Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity has been creating and building affordable housing throughout Gwinnett County for over 27 years and has built 126 single-family homes to date. It recognizes the importance of having committed corporate involvement from Gwinnett County’s business community and the impact these valuable business partnerships have in helping to improve the lives of low-income families and children. Also, these recipient families devote 250 hours to work alongside corporate sponsors to build their own home—no handouts but a real ‘hand-of-hope-up’ with bricks and mortar.

Gwinnett County is a large county with a sizable population and a broad mix of races, cultures and of varied socio-economic means. With this urban growth is a need for an overall plan that addresses the issues of low-income housing that the local government cannot by itself handle on its own. With Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity, we have an experienced and caring organization that is pro-actively addressing and providing affordable housing solutions. And it is effectively

using a collaborative community approach that involves individuals, donors, churches and corporate sponsors to help fulfill its mission to build homes, communities and hope in Gwinnett County.

As a matter of fact, several homeownership studies have concluded that public efforts to increase access to individual homeownership have been found to have greater impacts among low-income households than among higher-income households. Furthermore, facilitating homeownership among low-income households has been shown to have a greater social return on investment and an overall positive ripple effect in in the area of these households. Children also tend to do better in school. (Journal of Housing Research, Volume 14, Issue 1).

Corporate responsibility in philanthropic community efforts work and make a difference. It is such involvement like the one built between Thrivent Financial and Gwinnett Habitat that leave a physical impact in the broader economic and housing activity of Gwinnett County. It also leaves an indelible and intangible

impact in the lives of hard working low-income families seeking decent, safe and affordable housing—and that also enhances the quality of life for children. It also shows other companies thinking of moving to Gwinnett County that our local businesses believe in their community and in helping others by doing good in their own backyard.

To learn more about Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity or to make a donation, please visit www.habitatgwinnett.org or call 770-931-8080, ext.15. Help us continue making a difference in Gwinnett County. After all, community philanthropy is the gift that keeps on giving.

n RACHEL PEREZ IS THE DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT FOR

GWINNETT HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

july/august 2015 41

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42 gwinnettedge

Strategies TECHNOLOGY

Erasing Borders at Business RadioX The Power of Digital Media[by Mike Sammond]

THE PHONE CALL WAS ONE I HAD RECEIVED MANY times before. A recent guest beaming with pride over the acquisition of a new client.

"They heard our interview on your radio show and hired us to prepare their business plan and marketing plan," said Jennifer Rusz, Chief Marketing Officer at Sterling Rose Consulting Corp. "They're from Colombia."

"That's great news. Congratulations!" I responded. "Columbia, South Carolina?"

"No. Colombia… the country," she corrected me. "And they've moved their business to Gwinnett County because of your show."

The new clients were Alejandro Tamayo and Paula Rivas, owners of Green C Trading, the creator of Papagayo Foods, a

company that produces and ships natural fruit pulps and purees worldwide. The company is also preparing to expand their business to include dog treats and other imported products. They had been searching for a place in the southeastern United States to relocate their multi-million dollar business.

Jennifer told me that Alejandro was a passionate listener of several shows that aired on Business RadioX, including two shows that I host, "Gwinnett Business Radio" and the Gwinnett Chamber's show "Open for Business".

"I listened to the shows in Colombia for almost a year. I put Business RadioX on my cell phone and tuned-in every morning at home and in the car driving to work,” said

Take Internet radio, for example, which effectively markets and promotes businesses to a mobile workforce that relies on computers, iPads and iPhones. Internet radio also allows companies to create relevant and useful content for all their business and social platforms such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Pinterest and Twitter.

Just ask Sterling Rose. The Lawrenceville-based company has decided to become an industry leader by launching its very own radio show on Business RadioX. The goal is to share their expertise on how to begin and build a successful business.

They should know. That’s because, in addition to Green C Trading, Sterling Rose just added another new client from overseas, a major real estate developer from the Philippines, a company that also heard about them on Business RadioX.

As Sterling Rose has discovered, digital media can offer you a “world” of business. Literally.

n MIKE SAMMOND IS THE OPERATOR OF BUSINESS RADIOX; FORMER

CNN HEADLINE SPORTS ANCHOR MIKE SAMMOND IS THE OPERATOR

OF THE BUSINESS RADIOX STUDIO IN GWINNETT. HE CAN ALSO BE

HEARD EVERY WEEKEND ON ATLANTA'S SPORTS RADIO 92.9 THE

GAME.

july/august 2015 43

Alejandro. “At the beginning, I just wanted to get used to the language,

but the more I listened, the more I realized that the business environment in Gwinnet was great. All the stories I heard on Mike´s show about how business was getting done, and the large number of experienced companies based here, were two big factors in moving to Gwinnett County."

“Alejandro would tell me about all the businesses he heard about on the shows, and how they could help our company if we moved to Gwinnett,” said Paula. “A great example of that was hiring Sterling Rose to help us with our business and marketing plans.”

To recap: An Internet-based radio station in Gwinnett promotes the county's positive business climate which results in a South American company moving their entire operation here. That would not, and could not, happen without the power and reach of digital media.

The world is shrinking and digital media, led by social media sites and Internet radio, is erasing borders. Companies ahead of the curve not only understand digital media, but embrace it. Those that don't invest in digital media face the risk of ignoring an entire generation.

44 gwinnettedge

Strategies BUSINESS

Overcoming Decision ParalysisHaving a logical decision-making process is vital for organizational success[by Chris Reese, MBA]

THE TRUSTED ADVISORS HAVE BEEN consulted. Much thought and deliberation have been done. The answer and direction are clear. Still there is hesitation.

There are all kinds of excuses offered up.“I want to be sure I’ve thought this

through.” “It’s not that simple.”Whatever the explanation, it’s nothing

more than a justification for inaction.While this scenario is common in

all areas of life, it can be particularly detrimental for those in positions of leadership. Those over whom the leader is responsible often perceive this paralysis as leadership failure.

So how can it be overcome?It’s important to recognize a very real

psychological component that keeps us stuck in the status quo. It’s a concept called prospect theory, and it comes from decades of research by Daniel Kahneman and Amos Tversky on decision-making

processes involving risk and uncertainty. In Kahneman’s book, Thinking Fast and Slow, he provides this simple definition: “we are more inclined to avoid loss than we are to move toward a gain.”

Any change from the status quo is psychologically perceived as a loss. This is one of the reasons people stay in bad relationships – it is familiar and there is a substantial emotional investment. Even with significant pain, the severing of that relationship is regarded as a loss.

Now, let’s apply that to business.Most executives understand sunk cost.

This is the concept that what’s done is done, and decisions should not consider sunk cost. Decisions should only be based upon the return on the next dollar or hour spent on the project or line of business. This, however, is not the way most people operate.

Often managers say, “We’ve got too much

invested in this to let it go now.”While understandable, it’s the wrong

perspective. The only thing that matters is the return on the time and resources necessary to complete the project or initiative. There is often a huge sense of loss with abandoning a failed initiative into which so much time and money have been invested. The result is an increase in risk tolerance when it comes to trying to limit losses.

Here’s the classic example from Kahneman and Tversky’s research. Subjects were presented with the following questions. You have $1000 and you must pick one of the following choices:A: You have a 50 percent chance of gaining $1000, and a 50 percent chance of gaining $0.B: You have a 100 percent chance of gaining $500.

#1

july/august 2015 45

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Making a Move: Professional Lacrosse Comes to Gwinnett!

featuring: Behind the Scenes at the Aurora Theatre!

You have $2000 and you must pick one of the following choices:A: You have a 50 percent chance of losing $1,000, and a 50 percent chance of losing $0.B: You have a 100 percent chance of losing $500.

From a purely logical analysis, options 'A' and 'B' are equivalent in both questions. However, respondents overwhelmingly chose 'B' for question one and 'A' for question two. In other words, they were risk averse when it came to the potential for gains, but risk seeking when it came to limiting losses.

This leads us to the second reason for decision paralysis: fear. Fear of making the wrong decision often overwhelms the pain of the current situation. Fear is also tied to the concept of prospect theory. The status quo is known. The consequences of a choice that may result in an even greater loss have yet to play out.

Many leaders fall prey to the illusion that they must be invulnerable and infallible.

Vulnerability is vital as a leader. History is filled with examples of people embracing leaders that display their humanity. The converse is also true. Leaders projecting a persona of invulnerability are often perceived as unapproachable, disconnected and egotistical.

Because most decision paralysis happens around large financial or human resource decisions, having a logical decision-making process is critical. This is also where the healthy conflict of effective teams is vital. Leaders must have mentors, advisors and team members that will ask the difficult questions during the decision-making process.

With those components in place, the correct decision will become clear.

At that point, it is time for the leader to lead.

n CHRIS REESE IS THE FOUNDER AND

PRESIDENT OF CIRRUS BUSINESS GROUP.

CIRRUS BUSINESS GROUP EXISTS TO

BUILD GREAT ORGANIZATIONS THAT ARE

GREAT PLACES TO WORK.

"Most decision paralysis happens around large financial or human resource decisions, having a logical decision-making process is critical. This is also where the healthy conflict of effective teams is vital. Leaders must have mentors, advisors and team members that will ask the difficult questions during the decision-making process."

#2

46 gwinnettedge

Chasing the DreamTwo professional athletes share what it is reallylike to play in the minor leagues

Strategies PERSPECTIVES

#1 WHAT IS THE BEST PART ABOUT PLAYING ON A MINOR LEAGUE TEAM? kleinknecht | Of course the opportunity to make it to the big leagues makes playing in the minors a rewarding profession. And I really can’t complain about the chance to play a game for a living—it is truly an once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I also enjoy meeting all the different people, players and fans who make playing a lot of fun and even more worthwhile.

murovich | It's a dream come true to play hockey at the professional level. I really enjoy the high level of competition. I have also met so many great people through the sport who all share similar passion for the game. I've been lucky to play in a lot of great towns and cities. No place has treated me as well as Gwinnett. There are so many great people involved in and around the organization.

#2 WHAT IS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF BEING ON A MINOR LEAGUE TEAM?

kleinknecht | Without a doubt being away from family for so long is one of the most challenging parts of playing in the minors. There is a saying that baseball is a game of failure and when you are in a tough stretch or have had a couple of bad games, it is hard not having the support of family close by to build you back up. With so many games played closed together, there is not a lot of time to forget about bad plays, strikeouts or errors. There are 144 games in 150 days, which means months without seeing family. murovich | The schedule. At times it can be a grind and takes a lot of guys some time to adjust. In our league, we play 72 games per season from the middle of October to the middle of April. This means a lot of travel on the bus. Unlike the NHL, we often play three games three days in a row.

#3 WHAT DOES YOUR DAILY SCHEDULE LOOK LIKE DURING THE SEASON?

kleinknecht | Most of the time, I get to

The Participantsn BARRETT KLEINKNECHT IS A UTILITY PLAYER FOR THE

GWINNETT BRAVES

n TYLER MUROVICH IS A FORWARD PLAYER FOR THE

GWINNETT GLADIATORS

Playing a game for a living is undoubtedly a dream come true. Traveling to different cities, meeting new people, having fans wait in line for your autograph and playing a game that you love all sounds glamorous and appealing. According to two local professional athletes all of this is a part of the magic of playing in the minors, but with it comes hard work, perseverance, and long days on the road. In this article, a Gwinnett Braves and Gwinnett Gladiators player share what it is really in the minor leagues and what keeps them chasing their dreams.

KLEINKNECHT

MUROVICH

july/august 2015 47

the park around noon, eat lunch and then watch films on the starting pitcher for the next game. After watching films, I head to the batting cages followed by outfield work and more batting practice. And then, it is game time. On top of all of this, I like to workout three days a week.

murovich | We play 3-4 games per week during most of the season. We practice during the other days unless there is lengthy travel. We get one day off from the rink per week. We are also active in the community with team events such as skating with youth teams, school and hospital visits, parties with the Glads Kids Club, etc.

#4 WHAT KEEPS YOU BUSY IN THE OFF-SEASON?

kleinknecht | I work construction in the off-season—electrical work, framing, plumbing—I do it all. To stay conditioned, I usually get up around 5 a.m. to get a quick workout. Right after the holidays, I start back with practicing—mainly hitting and groundballs.

murovich | I return to Pittsburgh every summer. I grew up there and my family's business is a hockey rink (Ice Castle Arena). I train young

players on and off the ice every day, in addition to training myself for the upcoming season.

#4 HOW HAVE THE MINOR LEAGUES BENEFITED YOU IN CHASING YOUR DREAMS?

kleinknecht | It has really shown me patience. Everybody thinks that once you’ve made the minors that the next step up is the major leagues, but there are actually seven different levels in the minors. I have been playing for five years, which isn’t a long time. But, when there are fresh, new 16 and 17 year olds making the minors or the big leagues every year, it can wear on you. Playing in the minors absolutely shows you patience when everything hasn’t gone the way you had hoped. In the end, you have to keep pushing on and pursuing your dreams.

murovich | It is definitely a dream come true to be playing professional hockey. My goal is still to reach the furthest I can in the sport. It is also my goal to win a championship. Playing for the Gladiators is a great place to help accomplish both of those goals.

“Playing in the minors absolutely shows

you patience when everything hasn’t gone the way you had hoped. In the end, you have to

keep pushing on and pursuing your dreams. ” “I've been lucky to play

in a lot of great towns and cities. No place has treated me as well as Gwinnett. There are so many great people involved in and around the organization.”

BK

TM

"The thing I like about baseball is that it's one-on-one. You stand up there alone, and if you make a mistake, it's your mistake. If you hit a home run, it's your home run." - Hank Aaron

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DISCOVER the

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Commodities, community, and culture in Gwinnett

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Get It While It's Fresh!Farmers markets across Gwinnett offer fresh produce and locally made goodsJoin the farm-to-table movement with local farmers markets that are popping up all over Gwinnett. From summer to fall, farmers markets across Gwinnett will be offering a bountiful harvest of fresh fruit, vegetables, baked goods and other specialty items from local merchants. Come out and enjoy fresh air, fresh produce and fresh faces at these local farmers markets:

AUBURN FARMERS MARKETR. H. Bural Park PavillionJune 3 – October 28 | Wednesdays, 2 – 6 p.m. Come purchase local homegrown vegetables and fruits every Wednesday throughout the summer and fall months.BRASELTON FARMERS MARKETDowntown Braselton | June 5 – October 9 | Fridays, 4 – 7 p.m. Shop for fresh produce then stop by the downtown shops, which stay open during market hours.GRAYSON FARMERS MARKETGrayson Community ParkJune 3 – October 28 | Wednesdays, 4 – 7 p.m. Purchase fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, grass fed beef, pastured Birkshire pork, chicken, free- range eggs, local honey, baked goods and cheeses. Grab some local fare from food trucks or munch burgers, barbeque and fresh hummus while you shop!

GWINNETT COMMUNITY MARKETNorthview Church—BufordMay 28 – August 27 | Thursdays 4 – 8 p.m. Enjoy Georgia’s largest weekly indoor farmers market! Conveniently located in the North Atlanta Trade Center in Norcross, the Gwinnett Community Market brings you the best from local farmers, artisans and chefs.LILBURN FARMERS MARKETGood Shepherd Presbyterian ChurchJune 5 – August 28 | Fridays, 4 – 8 p.m. Rain or shine! Peruse seasonal fruits and vegetables, herbs, preserves/jellies, whole grain breads, milk, cheese, meats, salsas, pastas, handcrafted soaps and tasty baked goodies.SNELLVILLE FARMERS MARKETTown Green adjacent to Snellville City HallJune 6 - September 30| Saturdays, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Surprises always await…like the first tomatoes of the season, juicy Georgia peaches still warm from the sun, a variety of squash you’ve never tried, or the pumpkins that mark the fall season.SUWANEE FARMERS MARKETSuwanee Town Center ParkMay 30 – October 3 | Saturdays, 8 a.m. – noon The Suwanee Farmers Market offers in-season produce, herbs and plants, free-range eggs and meat, baked goods, fresh flowers and jams and jellies.

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The Hudgens Center for the Arts EACH ISSUE EDGE WILL GET UP CLOSE AND PERSONAL WITH A PERSON, COMPANY OR EVENT OF NOTE IN GWINNETT. THIS ISSUE, WE REVEAL FIVE THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT THE HUDGENS CENTER FOR THE ARTS.

1 It is right in your backyard. The Hudgens offers a really great place to see quality fine art exhibitions and experience exciting visual arts programming right here

in Gwinnett. With over 10 different exhibits per year, there is something for everyone. Of special note this year is an Andy Warhol exhibit in October.

2The art classes are the best of the best. Did you know you can take a studio art class with instructors and facilities that rival most college art departments

in our state right here in Gwinnett? The Hudgens offers these classes and more at its location in Duluth.

3 The Hudges offers the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and gifts. The Hudgens houses an AMAZING little gift shop with very

affordable, unique gift items.

For more information on The Hudgens, visit www.thehudgens.org.

4There is something for the whole family at The Hudgens. You and your family can experience all that The Hudgens has to offer at Family Day at The

Hudgens. Experience a hands-on art project, scavenger hunts with prizes, story times and a tour of their current exhibitions – all for free! Mark your calendar for their next Family Day on August 29 from 10 am – 5 pm!

5It’s a community affair. The Hudgens has community partnerships with Gwinnett Medical, Gwinnett County Public Library, Gwinnett County

Public Schools, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful and more! The Hudgens is supported through the generosity of individuals, corporations and foundations. They depend on the financial support of community partners in order to provide the quality programs that enrich the entire community.

july/august 2015 51

WATER COOLER TALKTOWER

TAKE A LOOK BACK AT WHAT GWINNETT AND METRO ATLANTA’S LEADERS HAD TO SAY ABOUT THE AREA’S MOST CURRENT BUSINESS AND COMMUNITY ISSUES.

@GwinnettChamber has the best golf tournament graphics ever!#golfislife #digitaldisplays #DigitalMarketing

“These risk-takers and innovators are the ones

who create jobs and provide much-needed services for our community, creating a better

quality of life for everyone. These are the leaders who are

laying the foundation for a bright future of opportunity.”

Randy Dellinger, District Manager – Jackson EMC and 2015 Gwinnett Chamber Board

Chair - Commenting on the finalists and winners of the 2015 IMPACT Regional Business Awards“It is because of Gwinnett Place

CID’s efforts and proven success in redeveloping the area that our

organization chose to join the District. We are committed to the area through our investment into Satellite Place and looking forward to working with the Board of the Gwinnett Place CID to help invite change and promote the

neighborhood.”Zac Gruber – Banyan Street Capital

Owners of Satellite Place, a half million square foot Class A office park which anchors the Gwinnett Place district

“This new warehouse and office space is vital to meeting our

market’s demand for immediate availability of our products, as well as

supporting the growth of our sales and marketing team. By expanding

our operations in Gwinnett, we are reinforcing our commitment

to this community, as we increase our efficiency and provide quality

energy saving LED products to our customers through the U.S.”

Vivian Wang, President – SELF Electronics USA

“The issue of transportation has been a major topic of study and consideration throughout the region and the state this year. Our goal was to take a snapshot of the view of the Gwinnett community on a specific issue related to the overall topic of transportation. The results will

be imbedded as part of future community-wide discussions on a comprehensive approach to economic development and the transportation system we will need to support it.”

Dr. Daniel J. Kaufman, President & CEO – Gwinnett Chamber Regarding the transportation study findings

TRENDING TOPICS

Trending

Nothing screams summer like a game of beach volleyball. Come watch entertaining and action-packed volleyball games as semi-pros compete in tournaments at Sunset Cove at Lanier Islands! Games will be held on Sunday, August 2; Saturday, August 22; and Saturday, September 12.

Calling all wine lovers! Join Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta’s ArtBar for Wine Down Wednesday. Enjoy wine specials, light appetizer pairings and live music from 6 to 9 p.m. ArtBar, a gastro pub infused with local fare and libations, provides a contemporary Southern restaurant with signature dishes and cocktails, installations by local artists, and entertainment every Wednesday. In other vino news, Lanier Islands is pleased to offer the Wine Cruise Series! Cruise on selected days while tasting wines from all over the world. The Island Princess sets sail at 2 p.m. and docks at 5 p.m.

Join the Mall of Georgia for the Monthly Music Jam on the first Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m., April - November, at the Hennessy Cadillac Village Stage. The band schedule includes: August 7 - The Woody's Unplugged; September 4 - White Winged Dove Duo; October 2 - Fire & the Knife Duo; and November 6 - The Woody's Unplugged. Guests are invited to bring their lawn chairs and blankets.

VISION COMMUNITYDAY

2016 Gwinnett Regional Science & Engineering Fair FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 26

Gwinnett Center • Duluth, GA

SPONSORBECOME A JUDGE

EXHIBITVOLUNTEER

Visit www.gwinnettsciencefair.com to learn about involvement opportunities!

Tuesday, October 20 TPC Sugarloaf

Don’t Miss Out!Gwinnett’s Premiere Networking Event at TPC Sugarloaf

Connect with fellow business professionals and community leaders, outside of the office, with a day on the green, at one the area’s most prestigious courses, TPC Sugarloaf. If golf isn’t your game, participate in a heart-thumping tennis match. Don’t delay—reserve your spot to promote and play today!

Call 678.957.4958 or visit GwinnettFallClassic.com for more information. Partnerships are available.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

GET CONNECTED WITH:THE CITY OF NORCROSS

SERVING AS AN ESSENTIAL CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY LIFE, THIS SECTION FEATURES LOCAL COMMUNITY PARTNERS THAT ARE MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN GWINNETT BY HELPING TO CREATE

AN ENVIRONMENT WHERE BUSINESSES CAN THRIVE. HERE ARE JUST A FEW WAYS THE CITY OF NORCROSS IS WORKING FOR YOUR BUSINESS:

#1 Norcross Listed Among Top 10 Cities to Start a Business. While Director Rusty Warner and his Economic Development team might argue that Norcross is the No. 1 city for starting a business, the financial education and advice website – NerdWallet.com – has listed the City of Norcross at No. 7 among the Top 10 cities in Georgia to start a business. To make its determinations, NerdWallet analyzed 126 places in Georgia, each with a population of at least 5,000 – taking into account each city’s business climate and economic health using data from the U.S. Census Bureau. For business climate, the site studied average revenue, percentage of businesses with paid employees and number of businesses per 100 people. To determine economic health, median annual income, median annual housing costs and the unemployment rate were also considered.

In its synopsis of Norcross, NerdWallet stated: “Entrepreneurs eyeing Norcross for their business ventures can take advantage of free mentoring and workshops through Score Atlanta, a nonprofit resource center for small businesses in the Atlanta metro area. Incentives offered for businesses in the state-designated opportunity zone, such as a $3,500 per job tax credit, are also a bonus for business owners. These perks may contribute to the high concentration of businesses in Norcross, which has about 30 businesses per 100 residents.” That last statistic marks the highest figure of any other municipality in the Top 10!

#3 SCORE Joins Norcross and Is Available to Assist Your Business. As part of a new Norcross business program, Network Norcross, we are glad to welcome the services of SCORE. SCORE Atlanta is a non-profit resource partner of the Small Business Administration. "We're small business experts and have been helping people fulfill their dreams since 1964. Our chapter is part of an organization of over 10,500 volunteers with 389 offices across the nation.'

Norcross has provided a work space for SCORE mentors, as a way to encourage growth within our Norcross business community. Please take advantage of the experience of the mentors by making an appointment with a SCORE advisor today.

#2 Location, Location, Location. Our location seems to be a big draw for both large Fortune 500 companies and smaller corporations looking for a home. We are conveniently adjacent to major interstates and less than 20 minutes to the City of Atlanta but far enough away to still be considered a small town. Our “top notch” and highly awarded police department is centrally located within City Hall. Norcross police rank at the top of all professional law enforcement agencies in the United States. Not all cities have their own police and ours is exceptional! Citizen participation is amazing and a big part of our success. From informal groups, the Downtown Development Authority Board, art committees and citizen involvement with major events... we couldn't ask for a better or more generous volunteer base.

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54 gwinnettedge

Trending

WHAT’S ON YOUR DESK? ON YOUR

STAGE?

THE AURORA THEATRE STAGE

As Gwinnett’s only professional theatre, Aurora Theatre is constantly churning out one award-winning production after another. After all, they are the consummate professionals arts organization in Gwinnett County and Northeast Georgia. They are deeply committed to producing quality, professional theatre for their most ardent supporters—the residents of Gwinnett County as well as theatergoers from across the Southeast. With its niche market and attraction of world-class artists who are vested in producing inspiring work, there are some interesting facts about Aurora Theatre’s production that may surprise even the biggest arts supporter. Here is a closer look at Aurora Theatre’s stage during the production of “Hands on a Hardbody”:

Diany Rodriguez with the cast of Hands on a Hardbody; Photo by Chris Bartelski

Lighting the stage uses state-of-the-art elements including the use of up to 18 programmable moving intelligent lights. All of the actors have wireless microphones, which enables the sound designer to blend the voices and the music for the desired mix of the show.

The stage floor contains six possible options for a trap door to be utilized. Until recently, the scene show was housed underneath the stage for creation of Aurora’s sets. The theatre has expanded to an offsite location and will utilize the space for costume and prop storage and actor “quick-change” stations.

For “Hands on a Hardbody,” 15 actors were employed for eight weeks costing upwards of $50,000. Aurora Theatre is committed to having a live band for all musicals. Last season Aurora Theatre employed 313 artists with an annual cost of $350,000 for professional actors and $86,000 for musicians paid with a weekly contract salary.

This is a real truck that has been gutted and rebuilt for stage purposes. There is no engine or truck bed, the tires do not touch the ground. The truck is on several smaller casters (wheels) invisible to the audience that allow the actors to easily maneuver the truck on stage. Although there is no engine to crank, the horn and headlights are fully operational.

Yes, that is a real porta potty. No, it is not being used for that purpose while onstage at Aurora Theatre. Other interesting props used over the years include a working golf cart for “The Fox on the Fairway”; numerous examples of exotic taxidermy in “The Explorers Club”; and the ingenious use of PVC piping, a hose and a sink to create rain onstage for “Singin’ in the Rain.”

may/june 2015 55

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