T R E N D S VOL. 31, NO. 1, FEBRUARY 2018 GMA’s new chairman: We are a Piedmont Triad market he man who will serve coat and tie, likes to maintain peak in the moving T as GMA’s chairman for a collegial atmosphere in the business. 2018 helps lead a business workplace. “We are a very diversified with High Point roots that “I’m a team builder,” he company,” says Lassiter, who go back to 1908. says. “I like to get involved went to work full-time with Bart Lassiter is a vice with everybody. I want to be the company upon graduat- president at City Transfer & Storage, which was founded ‘I’m a team builder. I like to get by his grandfather. It’s a involved with everybody.’ heritage that gives him and – Bart Lassiter other family members a deep sense of pride. a part of the team at GMA, ing from Appalachian State His passion for High too.” University in 1975. “We do Point and moving that city Lassiter’s grandfather used commercial distribution, forward is matched only by a team of mules and a wagon warehousing, office moving, his enthusiasm for building when he launched City custom packing and storage, up the Piedmont Triad and Transfer & Storage 110 years and records storage.” taking a regional approach Bart Lassiter, a vice president at City Transfer & Storage, is GMA ago. Today the company de- City Transfer is “a total re- to business development. and FirstPoint chairman for 2018. pends on a fleet of trucks, is location company that serves “I want to expand GMA’s between the various commu- Ilderton, of Ilderton Dodge an affiliate of Atlas Van Lines, the Triad and the whole membership throughout the nities in the Piedmont Triad. Chrysler Jeep Ram, was the and has offices in Winston- world,” he says. Triad,” Lassiter says, “be- Lassiter was active in the first. Salem as well as High Point. City Transfer also provides cause we are a Triad market. High Point Merchants As- Lassiter emphasizes that “You call, we haul,” is the crane and rigging services. Its “If we just focus on the sociation and helped make his interest in increasing company’s long-standing mobile cranes are able to lift markets we are physically for a smooth transition when GMA’s Triad-wide footprint motto. extremely heavy loads, such in – such as Greensboro or that organization merged simply is continuing on a Over the decades, the as air conditioning equip- Burlington or Kernersville with GMA in 2008. path set by his predecessors company has expanded to ment, and set them in place – we are leaving a lot of op- “The merger was a good and GMA leadership. provide a range of specialized on office tower rooftops. portunity on the table.” thing for us and High Point, “The wheel I’m about to moving and storage solutions Lassiter is positive about Lassiter long has been a and I think it was a good take over is not broken,” he for household clients as well the coming year in terms of proponent of looking at the thing for GMA,” he says. says. “Mark Prince and his as business customers. The the economy and business Piedmont Triad as a single Lassiter is the second High team have taken the ball and company maintains about throughout the Piedmont market and creating rela- Point businessman to serve run with it.” 75 employees year-round. Triad. tionships that bridge real as chairman of the board of Lassiter, who is more com- That number may rise to 100 “I think 2018 will be and perceived boundaries GMA and FirstPoint. Tim fortable in shirtsleeves than a during the summer, which is good,” he says.

INSIDE T R E N D S Derrick Brady...... 2 Risers...... 4

Details, Details, Jack Clemens...... 5 Page 2 Page 2 Workplace Workshops.....6 Networking...... 7 Guarantee Your All-Star Status Place 225 Commerce Greensboro, NC 27401 Greensboro, Trends is a publication of the – Reserve Your Seats Now! Guilford Merchants Association. An advertising supplement to The Business Journal Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association Do you have your ticket for Cal Ripken, Jr. and the Annual Dinner? lison Huber is one of those GMA members , is another fan of the Annual Din- says. “I enjoy it.” A who considers the Annual Dinner the high- ner. He’s attended every year since joining GMA Huber agrees. “Where else do you get to see light of her social and business year. She’s excited in 2003. 700 or 800 of your friends?” she asks. about hearing what “The dinners fire me up,” he Tickets to the February 27 legend Cal Ripken, Jr., guest says. “It’s a motivational-type event are $80 for GMA members speaker for the 2018 Annual thing.” The Annual Dinner, he (includes two drink tickets for the Dinner, has to say. says, presents a good opportunity cocktail reception, beginning at “I’ve heard he’s a phenomenal to socialize and network with a 5:30 p.m.). speaker,” says Huber, a sales huge cross-section of the Pied- A corporate table for GMA representative for Sprint and a mont Triad business community. The event is members, with seating for 10, is $900. member of GMA’s board of di- held at the Sheraton Greensboro / Koury Conven- Annual Dinner tickets may be ordered online Ripken rectors. tion Center. at secure.mygma.org/payments, or contact Mi- John Thomas, president of Ideacom of Central “It’s just a good gathering of people,” Thomas chelle Bolick at 336-378-6350. Photographer learned his craft while working on both sides of the camera errick Brady may be group as its only photog- just took a leap of faith,” he D the only GMA member rapher. The C.A.N. group, says. “I didn’t know one per- who belongs to the Screen he says, “has opened up an son.” Actors Guild. entirely Unlike most who aspire Center City The professional photog- new net- to Hollywood careers, Brady A.M. Briefing rapher, who began working work that says he never had to wait in front of the camera before I would tables or seek other work Coleman Team of Linville Team Partners discusses the planned he was a first-grader, doesn’t never to make ends meet. “It took $24 million office tower that will overlook First National Bank encounter many acting gigs have been me about two weeks before I Field, home of the . The 112,000-square- these days. But, he says, it’s Brady’s self-portrait. a part of landed my first gig,” he says. foot building will be constructed at the corner of Eugene and good to be ready when op- otherwise. “It’s been amaz- It was a stunt role in Bellmeade Streets. The building is a joint venture with GEMCAPS portunity comes along. ing,” Brady says. “After the Sunset,” an ac- Development of Winston-Salem. Owners of the Grasshoppers will have a stake in the development in exchange for the property, And, he notes, it’s always Brady enjoyed making tion comedy starring Pierce which is now a plaza. good to have one’s eyes photos as a youngster. When Brosnan, Salma Hayek, and open for new opportunities. he moved to New York to Woody Harrelson. His one His curiosity about pursue an acting career, he speaking line, of course, was the art and craft of film offered to make headshots cut. and television production for his roommate, who was Brady used his time on helped him trying to get movie sets to further his expand his PARTICIPATION signed at a photography and video skills skills and modeling by “being open to whatever marketabil- = SUCCESS agency. was needed. It definitely ity as a young The photos wasn’t easy, but I was being adult actor working in New must have been good. The paid to go to the best school York and later in California. roommate signed with the in the world. “I was always the annoy- agency, and Brady soon was “For the last 20 years,” he ing kid on set, talking to the making portraits of other as- says, “I’ve made my sole in- Linville Team Partners director, the lighting guys, piring talent. come based on photography and the grips,” says Brady, “My pro career took off and entertainment.” T R E N D S whose screen name is Brady from there,” he says. Cook. “All of my knowledge Brady moved to California Derrick Brady President & CEO G. Mark Prince comes from being thrown to break into the West Coast 323-377-0576 Vice President of Operations Michelle Bolick into the middle of it all. entertainment industry. “I www.bcookmedia.com Vice President of Sales Susan Russell There’s nothing I won’t do Operations/Special Events Coordinator Holly Smith or can’t do.” Operations/Special Events Coordinator Lisa Daas Brady, a Greensboro na- Membership Development Sharon Smith tive and graduate of South- TRENDS is published for the members of the ern Guilford High School, Guilford Merchants Association. owns B. Cook Media, a full- Publication Coordinator – Michelle Bolick service photography studio. Phone (336) 378-6350 Fax (336) 378-6272 He and his wife, a California 225 Commerce Place, Greensboro, N.C. 27401 www.mygma.org native, relocated to Greens- The Guilford Merchants Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1906. boro in 2016. The Association is a business membership organization focused on supporting member companies with educational programming, lead generation activities, Soon after joining GMA marketing opportunities, and overall enrichment while serving as a catalyst for last year, he was able to community growth and prosperity. join the C.A.N. networking Brady photographs a model on a Los Angeles rooftop. 2 Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association years of experience coach- Carolina ing arena football teams, will coach the Cobras. He Cobras coached the team in Wichita Arena football returns Falls, Texas, last season. Back knows the Greens- to Greensboro Coliseum boro Coliseum; he played there for the Cincin- hink of blending the agement, including stints nati Marshalls against the atmosphere of a rock in minor league baseball, T Greensboro Revolution in concert with the action and hockey and arena football. 2006. athleticism of football in a The addition of four teams Arena football is an ex- climate-controlled environ- to the two-year-old National tremely fast-paced sport. ment. That’s what Brian Arena League (including “If you go to the facilities,” Cassidy, president of the the Cobras) created the op- Brian Cassidy, president of the . Cassidy jokes, “you’re going Carolina Cobras, is shoot- portunity for him to return to miss two or three touch- ing for at home games for to arena football. “I just love good market for them,” Cas- had two arena football teams. downs.” Greensboro’s new arena the sport so much,” he says. sidy says. The Prowlers were active “We’re hitting the ground football team. The Cobras belong to The Cobras will have a from 2000 through 2003, running, meeting as many “It’s fun, affordable, fami- an ownership group based 24-player roster, with 21 playing in the Arenafootball2 people as we can,” Cassidy ly entertainment,” he says in in Atlanta. “They thought dressing out to play. Tryouts league. The Greensboro Rev- says. “We want the com- his office at the Greensboro Greensboro would be a have been held to recruit lo- olution played in the Nation- munity to reach out to us Coliseum. cal talent to the team, which al in as well. I want to hear from The Cobras will play will have some high-level 2006-07. people. eight home games, each on NCAA Division I players, The playing field, 85 by “These players are go- a Saturday. Cassidy aims to down through Division III. 200 feet, is the same size as ing to be available to help make every game a sellout, “Most of the guys will be an NHL hockey arena. in the community however filling all of the 8,600 avail- fresh out of college,” Cassidy Cassidy says fans can ex- they can. We want them to able seats. says. pect lots of interaction with be great role models in the The opening game is Charles McCullum, the In- the players, who will be Triad.” April 7 against the Jackson- door Football League’s 2016 available to mingle after each ville Sharks. MVP, will quarterback the game. “You’re going to get to Brian Cassidy Cassidy brings 17 years Cobras. know these guys,” he says. [email protected] of experience in sports man- Coach Billy Back. Greensboro previously has Billy Back, who has eight www.carcobras.com

Join us at Wet’n Wild Emerald Pointe for the 2018 Triad Chill benefitting Special Olympics North Carolina!

Feb. 24, 2018

The Triad Chill is a perfect employee engagement opportunity for local businesses to have fun all while supporting Special Olympics! The Triad Chill is a Polar Plunge fundraising event to support Special Olympics North Carolina. www.triadchill.com

3 Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association

Risers, photographed at BoxCar Bar & Arcade, Greensboro Risers is GMA’s group for Young Professionals. Are you rising in your career? Call 336-378-6350 for information about joining.

Name: Latoya Neal Age: 29 Hometown: Greensboro Residence: Greensboro Education: B.A., Political Science and Public Administration, Winston-Salem State University Latoya Neal, assistant coordinator, Crime Stoppers. Pursuing a degree in information technology at N.C. A&T State University started going to networking events, learned about Risers, and made some good friends. Business: Crime Stoppers With networking, I’ve met a lot of people. Position: Assistant Coordinator Goals: My most immediate goal is to buy a house this Duties: Infamous marketing. That is, we publicize year. And to finish up at A&T then get an MBA. information about crimes in Greensboro and I’m debating between getting an MBA-JD, or ask the public to provide anonymous tips so just a plain MBA. that criminals can be identified and arrested. Personal: I’m a member of GRAWL, the Greensboro Part of my job is fund-raising. The reward Arm Wrestle League. We arm wrestle for local funds that Crime Stoppers offers come from charities. I really like it, because I didn’t realize donations from individuals, businesses, and I like to dress up in costumes and play different organizations, like GMA. characters. Each event, we’re a different On GMA: Michelle Bolick is one of our board character, depending on the theme. At the members. Because she was on our board, last event, just before the election, I was Babe I started to pay more attention to GMA. I Lincoln.

Reach your target market through Trends rends reaches thousands of T readers throughout the Pied- In the parade mont Triad, including readers of GMA President & CEO Mark Prince and 2017 GMA The Business Journal. An ad in Chair Rhonda Joyce took part in the 2017 High Point Trends is seen by decision-makers at Holiday Festival Parade. The parade, always held on hundreds of companies, large and the Sunday before Thanksgiving in downtown High small. Point, kicks off the holiday season with dozens of units including floats, marching bands, and other To advertise in Trends, contact crowd pleasers. GMA produces the High Point Holi- Michelle Bolick at 336-378-6350. day Festival Parade. 4 Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association New member orientation

GMA recently welcomed new members with a lunchtime orientation session at GMA headquarters. Standing, from left: AnnDrea Pollard, Piedmont Authority for Regional Transportation; Mark Prince, GMA; Frank Verdi, H.M. Kern Corporation; Josh Morgan, Truliant Federal Credit Union; Robert Gray, HomeTrust Bank; Todd Rangel, First Bank; Chad Davis, HomeTrust Bank; Mia Spillane, Grandover Resort. Seated, from left: Ter- Jack Clemens owns Navigate Insurance Agency in Greensboro. rie Webb, Alcova Mortgage; Ashley Jones, Truliant Federal Credit Union; Laura Bailey, Bibey Machine; Jessica McDaniel, Tar Heel Basement Systems; Jordan Lacenski, BrandBoss Creative; Karae Foddrell, Foddrell Consulting. Insurance agent makes the most of GMA on his second time around he network, says Jack Clemens, ups, and reaching out to others to T is what you make of it. For lend assistance, are necessary steps Clemens, an independent insurance to build relationships. Eventually, agent, being a GMA volunteer is one payback comes. Standing, from left: way to amplify his networking time. “Reciprocity, I think the law is Mike Bonino, Raymond Clemens volunteers at GMA’s called. You’re making a contribu- James Financial; Bo social networking events, such as tion. You get a return on your in- Crouch, Harris Crouch; Mark Prince, GMA. Noontime Network and After Work vestment,” he explains. Seated, from left: Jessika Olsen, Sonder Mind and Body; Karen Jefferies, YMCA of Network functions. People who expect Greensboro; Kim McKone, YMCA of Greensboro; Michele Solomon Council, M&F He wears a band VOLUNTEER immediate returns Bank; Veronika Olsen, Sonder Mind and Body. of flashing LEDs set themselves up around his neck and SPOTLIGHT for disappointment. passes out colorful Networking rarely stickers to members. brings overnight success. Rather, he Their challenge is to find some- says, it’s a smart, long-term strategy. one wearing a matching sticker, ex- “The fruit tree is a good meta- change cards, and get to know a bit phor,” he says. “You feed it, and it about one another. will bear fruit for many years.” Clemens became a GMA mem- Clemens says he’s impressed with ber – for the second time – in 2017. how GMA expresses its apprecia- Years ago, when he operated a spe- tion for volunteers. He attended a cialty advertising business, he had special holiday reception just for participated in GMA and been a volunteers. Office Evolution member of one of GMA’s formal net- “GMA does a great job when you Greensboro is working groups. volunteer,” he says. “They do recip- now open! He knew the drill when he re- rocate.” joined. “I’m sure I volunteered for He especially likes how the or- the first After Work Network that ganization represents “a marriage Office Evolution is built on a culture of ownership and responsibility. We succeed was available,” he says. of commerce and community. It’s in supporting local business growth because we’ve been there ourselves. Our As a volunteer greeter and facili- about community first, and com- team of spirited entrepreneurs take care of the daily grind, while you focus on your business goals. tator, Clemens has extra reason to merce second. I’ve been super-im- interact with anyone in the room. pressed with the way GMA is run.” OUR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES INCLUDE: “In the insurance business,” he says, • Private furnished offices • Address and mail services • Dedicated desks • Personalized phone answering “everybody is a potential client.” Navigate Insurance Agency • Shared open workspaces • Friendly staffed reception to greet Networking, he explains, only (336) 553-1109 • Conference rooms you and your guests begins with introductions. Follow- www.findwayhome.com

Learn why we are more than just a workspace provider. Take the first step in removing hassle from your professional life and contact us today. ‘You’re making a contribution. We are located at 806 Green Valley Road, Suite 200, Greensboro, NC 27408. You get a return on your Give us a call at 336-660-6444 investment.’

www.OfficeEvolution.com/Greensboro – Jack Clemens on volunteering [email protected]

5 Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association Workplace Workshops are opportunities to learn, laugh in 2018 committee of your GMA peers How much do employees of GMA- offered by GMA. intersection of N.C. 68 and I-40, is A has selected six world-class member companies pay to attend Some GMA members make it a the site for Workplace Workshops. motivational speakers to present at these high-powered events? Nothing. point to attend every Workplace Workshops begin with refreshments Workplace Workshops in 2018. They Attendance is free for all employees Workshop. Larger companies some- and networking at 7:30 a.m. Semi- will speak on topics ranging from of GMA-member companies. times send a team from a different nars run from 8 until 10 a.m. teamwork to customer service to at- Workplace Workshops are a mem- department to each event. Those who Advance registration is required titude, each one packing a two-hour ber benefit and just one of many attend take back what they learn to so that arrangements can be made presentation with information, in- opportunities for networking, educa- share with colleagues. to accommodate all who attend. To sights and humor. tion, and workforce improvement Embassy Suites Hotel, near the register, call 336-378-6350.

February 1 June 14 October 11 Jane Jenkins Herlong on Motivation Vicki Hitzges on Productivity Colette Carlson on Communication Don’t Throw Tomatoes at My Field of Dreams! Power Punch Your To-do List Many Communicate. Learn to Connect! When life gives you Do you need to get The common denomi- over-ripened tomatoes, thinking, planning, and nator of the most success- make ketchup! In this ready to go? Accomplish- ful people is the ability to presentation, full of en- ing goals leads to en- effectively communicate riching content and en- hanced character, higher and connect. In a world lightening humor, you self-esteem, and increased filled with numerous com- will hear business and life opportunities. In this munication channels and success strategies. Her seminar, you will discover constant distractions, be- storytelling focuses on strategies to tackle goals, ing heard has never been personal accountability and life-balance, while open doors, feel great, and watch your productiv- more challenging. Clear, concise communication promoting the highest standards of ethics for ity skyrocket. Watch your productivity soar, your is not enough; connection must be part of the peak performance and productivity. Learn creative self-esteem increase, and your work quality im- equation. Learn how to connect and communi- strategies to out-think the competition. prove. cate on a deeper level.

April 12 August 2 December 6 Nick Arnette on Teamwork Rob Bell on Customer Service Dave Caperton on Attitude Me, We, and Glee, You Need All Three Ringing Endorsements: How to Wow Your Adjusting the Lens of Perception This fun and interac- Customers If perception is reality, tive session is all about Every team member what might be possible how to have a great atti- has the opportunity to if we could change our tude, work as a team and enhance the company’s perceptions? How about keep your sense of humor, reputation. When face-to- experiencing more en- and in turn, be better at face with a customer, the gagement, enjoyment, your job! key to making sure each and motivation at work? In this session, you will interaction earns a ringing Finding joy at work learn: endorsement is to truly doesn’t guarantee success, • How to have a great attitude, even when wow them. Remarkable customer service requires but when you enjoy what you do, you tend to be things are going wrong. that everyone understands the FOCUS (Funda- better at it. You’ll learn how to make these con- • How to take charge of your thoughts. mentals of Consistent Unsurpassed Service). scious choices that create more joy, more engage- • How not to let knuckleheads get to you. ment, and less stress.

2017 Board of Directors The board of directors for GMA and FirstPoint assembled for an appreciation dinner as 2017 drew to a Getting motivated close. It was a time to thank board members for their service during the year, especially those rotating off. Speaker Matt Booth focused on cultivating a positive Pictured are, from left to right, Ford Bowers, BB&T; Alison Huber, Sprint; Tim Templeton, Marsh & McLennan attitude when he spoke to GMA members at Decem- Agency; Bart Lassiter, City Transfer & Storage; Ross Cox, ActionCOACH; Rhonda Joyce, American National ber’s Workplace Workshop. Each Workplace Workshop Bank; Mark Prince, GMA; Chief Wayne Scott, Greensboro Police Department; Abby Donnelly, Leadership and begins with a drawing for a cash door prize, which Legacy Group; Tom Conley; High Point Market Authority; Darlene Leonard, Smith Leonard; Tom Berry, Berico always seems to have a positive effect on the crowd. Fuels; Jeff Montgomery, First National Bank. Plan to join in the fun and inspiration for 2018. 6 Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association

Leigh Hardin, Employment Transitions; Charles Alston, Amedisys Home Health & John Payne, N.C. Zoo Society; Antonio Rocha and Abby Schmucker, Proximity & O. Hospice; Monica Lee, Caring Hands Home Health. Henry Hotels.

Courtyard by Marriott December 1, 2017

Mary Owens, Better Business Bureau; Karae Jacqueline Heyward, Amedisys Home Mel Schlesinger, My Virtual MD 24/7; Foddrell, Foddrell Consulting. Health & Hospice; Karen Williams, E-K Anna Kim, guest. Main Street Staff.

Airport Marriott Hotel November 14, 2017

Kelly Ford, Legal Shield; Emily Faircloth, The Spencer Warren, Connors Morgan; George Kroustalis, Russell and Cook Resource. Insurance; Sam Azzalina, MetLife.

Kimberly Driscoll, Cyn’s Boutique; Donna Goodwin and Joann Zollo, Christi Mackey, ActionCOACH; Holly Hogsed, Cheryl Bridges, ActionCOACH; Justin Thomp- Rhino Times. Harley Davidson of Greensboro. son, One Love Productions.

Beth Lee, Dex Media; Frank Verdi, H.M. Kern Alan Abrams, ActionCOACH; Tena Anton, First National Bank Mortgage; Melanie Troutman, Hamilton Group Funding; Corp. Tom Gaudioso and Ammanda Byerly, First National Bank. Anthony Albini, guest. 7 Trends – Published for members of the Guilford Merchants Association

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