ALL KIDS EQUITY FOR

MARCH/APRIL2016 PAGE 27

JAMESAN INSIDE VIEW INTO GEORGIA’S NEWS, POLITICS & CULTURE

THE 2016 MOST INFLUENTIAL GEORGIA POWER CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT & CEO PAUL BOWERS ISSUE

COLUMNS BY H. WILLIAM CRAVER // CHRISTINE HURLEY DERISO // RANDY EVANS // PHIL KENT MAC McGREW // KEITH PARKER // GARY REESE // DANA RICKMAN // LARRY WALKER

DEPARTMENTS Publisher’s Message 4 Floating Boats 6

FEATURES James’ 2016 Most Influential 12

JAMES Georgian of the Year, Paul Bowers 24 P.O. BOX 724787 An exclusive interview by Cindy Morley ATLANTA, GEORGIA 31139 404 • 233 • 3710 2016 Legislators of the Year 32

PUBLISHED BY INTERNET NEWS AGENCY LLC COLUMNS “Alternative to AARP” Poised to Grow 8 by Phil Kent CHAIRMAN MATTHEW TOWERY Georgia’s Best and Brightest PHIL KENT CEO & PUBLISHER 10 [email protected] are at Georgia Southern University by Gary Reese CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER LOUIE HUNTER ASSOCIATE EDITOR GARY REESE A Presidential Election Unlike Any Other 23 by Randy Evans ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES PATTI PEACH [email protected] Workforce, Economic Development MARKETING DIRECTOR MELANIE DOBBINS 27 [email protected] Hurt by Equity in Education Gap by Dr. Dana Rickman CIRCULATION PATRICK HICKEY [email protected] MARTA Redefined 28 CONTRIBUTING WRITERS by Keith T. Parker H. WILLIAM CRAVER CHRISTINE HURLEY DERISO GA-PCOM, Impacting Georgia’s RANDY EVANS 30 PHIL KENT Physician Workforce by H. William Craver MAC McGREW CINDY MORLEY KEITH T. PARKER Augusta U. Blankets the State GARY REESE to Serve Rural Communities 35 DANA RICKMAN by Christine Hurley Deriso LARRY WALKER Reviewing Your Life Insurance Policy 36 VISIT INSIDERADVANTAGE.COM by Mac McGrew SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DAILY INTERNET NEWS SERVICE $17.50/MONTH & RECEIVE JAMES FOR FREE Yes, I Voted 38 CHECK OUT OUR SISTER PUBLICATION: by Larry Walker SOUTHERNPOLITICALREPORT.COM

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ABOUT OUR “INFLUENTIAL” LISTINGS . . .

ver a dozen highly influential individ- this year’s recipients: state Sen. Steve Gooch, state O uals in their fields of endeavor have Rep. Stacey Evans and state Rep. Barry Fleming. been added to our “James’ Most Our listing of these accomplished men and Influential” edition this year. Among these newcom- women who are the guiding lights of our state’s ers are prominent Atlantans Alana Shepherd, Ralph business, political, legal and media circles is a good Reed and Rutherford Seydel; they should have been snapshot in time. Their ideas and actions impact all listed in previous years— and those responsible for Georgians, so it’s incumbent that we write about the oversight have been duly reprimanded! But, as them. And thus inform you about them. you browse, you’ll discover the addition of other By the way, our next James is the “Political and first-timers who have “risen through the ranks” to Law” issue and we’re adding a new feature. Check influence public policy and impact our quality of life. the website of our parent company www.insiderad- We can’t limit our list to just 100. That’s why in vantage.com for a fun “Top 20” exercise. Click on recent years we’ve expanded it to include far more the “Vote” icon to select your favorite metro Atlanta people, with a brief description of their accomplish- restaurants that are hot spots for politicos and polit- ments. Yes, our list is incomplete. Surely we have ical conversations. The Top 20 vote-getters will be left out some important people in various parts of featured in our next magazine. The No. 1 restaurant the Peach State who wield significant overt or will also get a spotlight blog on the popular covert influence that we don’t know about. AtlantaEats.com website. However, we trust readers will submit their names If you want to add a restaurant to our list, use for consideration next year. the “other” option on the bottom of the ballot. Our “Georgian of the Year” choice is especially Additionally, we’d love to hear any of your favorite appropriate. Georgia Power Co. CEO Paul Bowers memories or stories from your favorite spots around is the epitome of a hard-charging captain of indus- Georgia’s capital city. Use the space below the try who gives back to his beloved state in numer- questionnaire to share your favorite anecdotes. ous ways. The utility he ably leads continues to provide Georgians, as it has for decades, with elec- trical reliability and some of the lowest rates in the nation. So be sure to read staff writer Cindy Morley’s Bowers interview. James annually salutes state “Legislators of the Year” for their yeoman public service. In recent years we have honored such titans as House Speaker David Ralston, Senate President Pro Tem David Shafer, Senate Majority Leader Bill Cowsert, former House Majority leader Larry O’Neal and House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones. We commend to readers

FLOATING• BOATS WHO’S RISING AND SINKING IN GEORGIA BUSINESS AND POLITICS

Last year the Georgia Lottery Corp. questioned the After much hand-wringing, the Georgia Democratic legality of lucrative and unregulated fantasy sports Party found its man to challenge U.S. Sen. Johnny gambling. Under Georgia’s constitution only the Isakson: Investment manager Jim Barksdale. While he Lottery is authorized to operate gaming. So it asked has little political experience, Barksdale brings to the what “legal authority” fantasy sports companies table a fortune earned over his years in business, have to “independently operate fantasy sports enabling him to self-fund to a degree reminiscent of games.” Attorney General Sam Olens finally gave an how now-U.S. Sen. David Perdue got elected. He’ll answer in a legal opinion: they are engaging in ille- need that money, as the GOP senator has accumulat- gal gambling. At the same time, a bill by Sen. Rene ed an impressive $5.5 million war chest. The Dems Unterman, R-Buford, to legalize fantasy sports gam- have a face, but from here it still looks like their bling was pulled. Clearly, the fantasy sports boat in prospects of taking the seat are badly… Drifting Georgia is… SINKING Some of the state’s worst-performing public schools President Barack Obama announced his intent to are in Atlanta, so Superintendent Meria appoint Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Carstarphen proposed a bold plan (unanimously Authority CEO Keith Parker to the National supported by the School Board) to close three Infrastructure Advisory Council, a 30-person group schools as well as to have five managed by charter which advises the secretary of Homeland Security school groups. Only a few districts in the nation have on the security and information systems of “critical brought in charter operators under such an arrange- infrastructure sectors.” Quite an honor for Parker, ment, so charter school expansion and reform in who is praised on both sides of the political aisle for Georgia is… RISING his improvements to the transit system. No ques- tion his ship is… RISING Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport— the nation’s busiest— unveiled a $6 billion, 20-year All three major U.S. credit raters have upped expansion master plan. Travelers can expect to see Atlanta’s grade to the highest levels in over 20 in coming years, among other things, renovations to years. Mayor Kasim Reed cites city employee pen- the domestic terminal (including a new canopy), as sion reform as part of the reason for the elevation, well as a redone atrium, a new concourse, additional which serves as a high water mark for his tenure. cargo structures and a sixth runway. Atlanta’s air- For now, the credit upgrade has Reed’s, and the port ship is no doubt… RISING city’s, ship…RISING An historic education bill that frees up teachers to A study on the finances of downtown Atlanta’s teach more and test less passed the General Georgia Aquarium shows that it has brought Assembly. Sponsored by Sen. Lindsey Tippins, R- over $1.9 billion to the state’s economy since its con- Marietta, the law decreases the weight of student struction in 2005. Between the jobs created by con- “growth” in teacher evaluations and reduces the struction and at the aquarium itself, the $8.1 million number of state-mandated tests for all students. A in state and local tax revenue, and the fact that it student must also be present for 90 percent of a serves as an anchor to a rapidly growing downtown teacher’s course for that student’s score to count in business district, the country’s largest aquarium has the teacher’s evaluation. This popular and overdue Georgia’s ship… RISING reform has teacher morale… RISING MORE POWER SOURCES MEANS LOWER ENERGY COSTS.

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© 2016 Georgia Power Company. “Alternative to AARP” Poised to Grow

By Phil Kent

ive major credit to Georgia ence, says “ASA’s primary point of sale is a fully-devel- businessman Mark Wingate oped web site with a supporting database and Floridian Paul Cornell, (AmericanSeniors.org,) and direct and email market- who are revitalizing the ing. Anyone of any age may join and there is a rich American Seniors Association array of membership benefits for only $1.25 a month. as a “senior citizen” competitor And you can add a spouse for free.” to the long-dominant AARP. Often “We are committed,” Cornell says, “to making sure people like to choose organizations that our members have the choices, information and servic- mirror their politics. So for those who don’t like the lib- es they need to live healthier, wealthier lives.” eral-oriented AARP, and who seek healthcare and other Through a variety of paid and free marketing part- Gmembership benefits, these businessmen urge them to nerships, ASA is rapidly growing its mailing lists. In check out the politically center-right ASA. fact, Wingate notes, the member insurance and bene- ASA President Wingate, who lives in Alpharetta and fits offerings are very competitive with AARP— and in worked as a senior executive in the financial services some instances better. He says vendors are actively sector, says “the AARP claims to be the voice of the mailing product and promotions to the membership list nation’s seniors while using its political position to mar- and are reporting exceptional return and participation ket insurance products in a manner that causes many to believe it has an endorsement from the federal govern- ment. AARP’s dominance in the seniors market has allowed it to become a $1 billion dollar-plus nonprofit.” “The truth is,” Wingate continues, “that the AARP is an insurance company hiding behind nonprofit sta- tus. In politics, it functions very much like a seniors division of the Democratic Party. In fact, emails released during the Obamacare debate incredibly demonstrated how the AARP assisted the Obama White House in passing the costly, flawed legislation despite significant opposition from its membership.” Founded in 2004 by the late Georgia businessman Jerry Barton, ASA is a publicly-traded company with its stock offered on the pink sheets as AMSA. This writer was privileged to serve as its CEO from 2011 to 2013, so it is gratifying to double back to ascertain its new growth and future goals. Chairman of the board and CEO Cornell, a securi- ties industry consultant with over 30 years of experi-

Paul Cornell, CEO American Seniors Association rates. ASA offers members access to supplemental Medicare insurance, life and auto insurance, online banking, VISA credit cards, identity security products, hotel and travel discounts, health, dental and vision insurance and a variety of other benefits and discounts. Wingate and Cornell underscore that their organi- zation is well-positioned to grow as the nation’s sen- ior population is projected to double between now and 2030. According to the Census Bureau, the pop- ulation of 65 year olds and over increased from 35 million in 2000 to 40 million in 2010 (a 15% increase) and then will trend upward to 55 million in 2020 (a 36% increase for that decade.) By 2030, there will be about 72.1 million older persons, almost twice their number in 2007. “If properly marketed, American Seniors will have the brand position, product mix and conservative cre- dentials to grow into the dominant national conserva- tive competitor to AARP,” Wingate says. “And Paul and I plan to be around to witness it.”

Phil Kent, the CEO & Publisher of James, is a former CEO of the American Seniors Association. Mark Wingate, American Seniors Association President Georgia’s Best and Brightest Are at Georgia Southern University

by Gary Reese Since1906, Georgia Southern University has built a culture of programs among the top 10 engagement that bridges theory with practice, extends in the nation, and the the learning environment beyond the classroom and pro- University’s fashion design motes student growth and success. And each year, the and fashion merchandising University sends some 5,000 bachelor’s, master’s and programs are ranked in the top 10 doctoral degree graduates into Georgia, the nation and in the South. the world— each with a commitment to lifelong learning, In addition, Georgia Southern’s Jiann-Ping Hsu wellness and social responsibility. College of Public Health— the first of its kind in More than 93 percent of Georgia Southern students Georgia— and its nursing programs rank in the national come from its home state, which demonstrates the suc- top tier, and the University is currently home to the only cess of Georgia’s higher learning system. Gwinnett, manufacturing engineering bachelor’s program in the Bulloch, Fulton, Cobb and Chatham counties, in that Southeastern U.S. order, are home to the highest numbers of students, but they also hail from around the nation— 49 states and Research Washington D.C.— and from 85 countries around the Georgia Southern’s world-class faculty and students uti- world, including Nigeria, Honduras, China, India and lize nearly 40 centers, institutes and labs to work with Canada. businesses, researchers and Georgia Southern other academics to offer real- Top Rankings world solutions to complex While Georgia Southern has University continues to problems. Among these cut- been named the state’s most ting-edge facilities are the affordable college by the increase its national Herty Advanced Materials College Affordability Guide and Development Center, which is more than 30 of its degree pro- profile by earning a committed to creating new grams rank among the nation’s products and processes from most affordable, the University number of top academic Georgia’s natural resources; the continues to increase its Rural Health Research Institute, national profile by earning a rankings. a national leader in studying number of top academic rank- and creating solutions for rural ings from prestigious sources. healthcare; and the Institute for Coastal Plain Science, U.S. News and World Report ranked a number of the which explores the state’s unique coastal habitats— each University’s online programs among the top 25 in the of which are having an impact on the region. nation, including the graduate business programs (both In short, Georgia Southern promises a challenging MBA and non-MBA). Newsweek also recognized Georgia and engaging experience for Georgia’s best and bright- Southern’s College of Business, naming it one of the est, while offering hands-on learning and the tools they’ll seven Great Business Schools of 2015. Top Masters in need to succeed in the state, the nation and the world. Education named multiple College of Education master’s Gary Reese is a staff writer for James. GEORGIA SOUTHHERN PEN DOORS was able to O wn for me and let me go do MYOY OWNPN PAATTH. — Brian Burns ’13, ’15 Y ENGINEER WITH DISSNE

Georgia’s Best and Brightest...CHOOSE SOUTHERN

Canton, Georgia, native BRIAN BURNS landedd his dream job by building and refining an interactive animatronicic dragon while earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in engineeringering from the Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Informationation T Teechnology at Georgia Southern University. For Burns, the years at GeorG gia Southern taught him how to be an engineerr,, helped him find his GeorrggiaSouthern.edu passion and led him to Disney Imagineering. JAMES’2016 MOST

INFLUENTIALThis is our popular annual comprehensive collection of our elected officials as well as major players from across the state.

DAVID ABNEY Companies to Work For” in the country. the youngest Justice on the Court, but his wis- CEO, United Parcel Service Philanthropist Amos serves on various boards, dom combined with his lofty position make him Named CEO of the package deliv- and was a former chair of the University of one of the state’s most powerful legal arbiters. ery giant in 2014 after a whopping Georgia Foundation. forty years in the organization, SARA BLAKELY Abney’s knowledge of every level ROY BARNES Founder, Spanx of UPS serves both him and the Former Governor, Attorney Blakely’s success propelled her to become the company well as it moves forward into an era of Georgia’s last Democrat governor (1999-2003) world’s youngest self-made female billionaire increased competition on all fronts. still stirs the political pot, offering advice and by developing the women’s undergarment donations to friends and favored candidates.He Spanx. The Atlantan has been named one the STACEY ABRAMS is one of Georgia’s most prominent attorneys— world’s 100 most influential people by Time Minority Leader, Georgia House of Representatives headquartered in Marietta at the Barnes Law magazine, runs a foundation that assist women The state House Democratic leader has devel- Group— and has built a post-gubernatorial rep- through education and business training and oped into a prolific fundraiser. Yet she recently utation for consumer advocacy and protection. she recently took back her company CEO posi- became the subject of unflattering revelations tion to further boost outreach and sales. about a lack of transparency in hiding consult- ED BASTIAN ing fees from the 2014 Michelle Nunn political CEO, Delta Air Lines ARTHUR BLANK campaign while at the same time conducting a As he takes the helm from Richard Owner, Atlanta Falcons “non-partisan” voter registration drive by her Anderson, new CEO Bastian draws The Atlanta Falcons football team New Georgia Project. on his considerable experience and will have a new $1.5 billion down- expertise when he oversaw busi- town stadium in 2017 thanks to DEAN ALFORD ness development as Delta’s chief its owner’s vision and deal-mak- Businessman, Board of Regents member financial officer. He also effectively served as ing with the city. He is a generous This successful businessman, proud Georgia Delta’s chief restructuring officer, helping philanthropist, and the Arthur Blank Family Tech booster (he serves on several boards there), strategize and guide the airline through a large, Foundation remains a huge investor in the civic leader, philanthropist and Board of Regents complicated and ultimately successful Chapter revitalization of neighborhoods around the member is a tireless apostle of higher education 11 restructuring program. stadium. A jobs training program established reform. The CEO of Allied Energy Services and by the foundation is also assisting neighbor- a one-time state lawmaker, Alford has also MARK BECKER hood residents. served on the state Board of Education and President, Georgia State University chaired the state Technical College System. GSU’s president, who continues to create an MIKE BOWERS urban university second to none, is pushing a Lobbyist/Lawyer DEBBIE D. ALFORD bold plan to convert Atlanta’s soon-to-be- The former state attorney general and Balch & CEO, Georgia Lottery Corp. vacated Turner Field into a $300 million mixed- Bingham lawyer maintains carries a lot of polit- The Georgia Lottery continues its use development project featuring a Panthers ical and legal clout. He and investigator streak of success under Alford, set- football and baseball stadium. GSU is also tak- Richard Hyde performed yeoman service last ting a record for revenue for a ing steps to better security for its students after year in investigating and highlighting public fourth straight year in 2015. Nearly high-profile campus robberies. corruption in DeKalb County. (Little wonder the $1 billion went to pre-kindergarten probe was shut down by an embarrassed CEO program and HOPE scholarships in the fiscal GARY BLACK Lee May). Bowers will no doubt return to the year, and 2016 is sure to see more growth Commissioner, Georgia Department of Agriculture limelight with future high-profile controversies. under its CEO’s leadership. Black continues to impress as the faithful stew- ard over the state’s $71 billion agriculture indus- LISA BRANCH, DAN AMOS try. The commissioner is effectively protecting Judge, Court of Appeals Chairman/CEO, AFLAC food quality and safety while navigating through A graduate of Emory University’s School of As Amos continues his stewardship of the complex federal regulations. He also seeks to Law, Branch practiced litigation at Smith, Columbus-based corporate insurance giant boost farmer profits by identifying export oppor- Gambrell and Russell LLP, and served as a known for its famous “Duck” commercials, he tunities through foreign trade missions. counsel to the U.S. Office of Management and looks back at an admirable marketing and prof- Budget under former President George W. itability record. AFLAC is cited continually by KEITH BLACKWELL Bush. A member on the board of advisors of Fortune magazine as one of the “100 Best Justice, Supreme Court of Georgia the Atlanta chapter of the Federalist Society, Heading into his 5th year on the Georgia she was appointed three years ago by Gov. Supreme Court, Blackwell is a conservative stal- Nathan Deal as a justice on the Georgia Court wart and a highly decorated judge. He may be of Appeals. STEVEN R. BRIGGS additional private sector jobs. Its venture fund President, Berry College has been especially successful in helping to GEORGIA SENATE During his nearly ten years as finance promising firms with new products LEADERSHIP President of Berry College, Briggs and ideas. has overseen dramatic growth - President with three major buildings, six var- DAN CATHY Casey Cagle Chestnut Mountain sity sports, and a variety of new Chairman/CEO, Chick-fil-A majors and other academic offerings added to Cathy continues to expand the President Pro Tempore the school’s repertoire. Solid leadership on a fast-food chain founded by his David Schafer Duluth beautiful campus, (the nation’s largest!) is a famous father Truett outside of Majority Leader Georgia. Chick-fil-A has even tough combo to beat. Bill Cowsert Athens entered the New York City market. JOHN BROCK Cathy is also a major player in helping to devel- Majority Caucus Chair President, Coca Cola Enterprises op Atlanta’s poor areas around the new Falcons William Ligon, Jr. Brunswick This Georgia Tech grad was CEO of several stadium. He’s working with Falcons owners Majority Whip major beverage companies before taking the Arthur Blank, the city and various charities to Steve Gooch Dahlonega reins at Atlanta’s own Coca-Cola Enterprises, rejuvenate these neighborhoods, calling it a where he has run the show since 2006. Few “moral imperative.” Democratic Leader Atlantans have risen to such heights as Brock, a Steve Henson Tucker key leader at one of Coke’s largest distributors. CHRIS CARR Democratic Caucus Chair Commissioner, Georgia Department of Economic Horacena Tate Atlanta MARK BUTLER Development Democratic Whip Commissioner of Labor A graduate of the University of Georgia’s busi- The former state House lawmak- ness school and law school, the former chief of Vincent Fort Atlanta er— Georgia’s first Republican staff to U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson was appointed labor commissioner— continues to as economic development commissioner by businessman rose through the telecommunica- make the job market more accessi- Gov. Nathan Deal. He plays a considerable role tions ranks to become one of the highest ranking ble by creating the Business in getting Georgia’s economy rebounding and, executives at AT&T. de la Vega has also become Service Unit and Customized Recruitment pro- along with the governor, is assisting the incred- a pillar of the Atlanta community, serving on the gram. Butler also continues to develop the ible growth of the film industry. They’ve boards of such organizations as the Atlanta acclaimed GeorgiaBEST program for middle brought a huge chuck of Hollywood to Georgia, Symphony Orchestra and Georgia Aquarium. and high school students, which certifies them with more motion pictures being filmed and with more studios being built. as “work ready.” IVAN DUNLEAVY CEO, Pinewood Studios CHRIS CLARK CASEY CAGLE Dunleavy heads up Pinewood President/CEO, Georgia Chamber of Commerce Lieutenant Governor Studio’s massive campus in The one-time Republican lawmaker who is the As head of the state’s largest business organi- Fayette County, where dozens of state Senate’s presiding officer is widely zation, Clark works alongside prominent busi- movies and television shows are regarded as a potential 2018 gubernatorial aspi- ness leaders to ensure that Georgia maintains filmed each year, including such rant. He continues to focus on education reform its lofty perch as one of the premiere states in blockbuster franchises as the Marvel Universe and job creation while eyeing that 2018 run. the nation to do business. and James Bond. Pinewood has been at the STEPHEN CANNON NATHAN DEAL forefront of Georgia’s burgeoning film industry CEO, AMB Group Governor since its construction, and for that Dunleavy Former CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA, Cannon Under the leadership of the gover- deserves much of the credit. assumed control of the Arthur Blank Group in nor— always a top “influential late 2015, putting him in charge of all company Georgian”— the Peach State con- TERRY ENGLAND tinues to be named by the presti- Chairman, Appropriations Committee business operations, including the Falcons, House of Representatives gious Site Selection magazine as Atlanta United FC, Mercedes Benz Stadium, The Barrow County farmer and businessman is the No. 1 state in the nation in which to do and more. Quite the set of responsibilities for a longtime legislative veteran who serves as the business. Through the public-private efforts Arthur Blank’s new point man, but so far influential Appropriations Committee chairman the governor fosters, thousands of jobs have Cannon seems more than up to the task. and a member of five other powerful House been created and countless millions of dollars committees. James has noted before that he is MERIA CARSTARPHEN in communities all over Georgia have been respected for his encyclopedia-like knowledge Superintendent, Atlanta Public Schools invested. If voters this fall approve his revolu- of the budget and the budget process. The superintendent is now in her tionary Opportunity School District plan, the second year of trying to turn state would take over low-performing schools DIETMAR EXLER around a system which the state and close them, turn them into charter schools President & CEO, Mercedez-Benz North America says contains at least two dozen or run them itself. He has also reshaped the Exler became President and CEO “low-performing” schools. It is also state’s judiciary with outstanding appoint- of Atlanta’s newest automobile a system still tainted by a 2011-2012 student ments to the Court of Appeals, Supreme Court maker on January 1st, 2016. He is test cheating scandal presided over by a dis- and lower courts. responsible for nearly 3,000 North graced predecessor which led to some admin- American employees and the dis- istrators and teachers being sent to jail. SANDRA DEAL tribution, marketing and customer service of Carstarphen, in spite of teacher union opposi- First Lady of Georgia the luxury automobiles they produce. tion, seeks to improve the worst schools by The First Lady has made a huge impact on the closing some and putting others under the state of Georgia during her time in the TOM FANNING management of charter school groups— all of Governor’s mansion, most notably in her efforts Chairman/President/CEO, Southern Company which can help avoid a potential state takeover. to improve childhood literacy. Her continued Another Tech grad, Fanning has piloted the presence in the “Read Across Georgia” pro- South’s largest utility company since 2010. MICHAEL CASSIDY gram has aided an entire generation of During that span the company has committed President/CEO, Georgia Research Alliance Georgia’s youth. itself to an impressive mix of energy sources that For 15 years now Cassidy & Co. have been meet the demands of an expanding population assisting universities to greatly expand their RALPH DE LA VEGA research, which in turn translates into more CEO, AT&T Business Solutions companies coming to Georgia that can create A true American success story, this Cuban-born and is on the boards of another half-dozen MUHTAR KENT GEORGIA HOUSE Atlanta organizations. Chairman/CEO, The Coca-Cola Company LEADERSHIP With over 125 years in business, HENRY “HANK” HUCKABY Coke remains a worldwide ambas- Chancellor, Board of Regents of the University sador of Atlanta with Kent as the Speaker of the House System of Georgia savvy helmsman. He is streamlin- David Ralston Blue Ridge Chancellor since 2011, Huckaby oversees the ing operations, expanding interna- Speaker Pro Tempore nearly 30 public colleges and universities in tional markets and shareholders are seeing Georgia along with their nearly 50,000 employ- more consumers buying the company’s drinks. Jan Jones Milton ees and 300,000 students. A former member of Majority Leader the State House of Representatives, he also has ROSS KING Jon Burns Newington political ties that enable him to be one of the Executive Director, Association County state’s most effective leaders. Commissioners of Georgia Majority Whip King and his ACCG team is hands-on when it Matt Ramsey Peachtree City RALPH HUDGENS comes to specialized leadership training for State Insurance Commissioner Majority Caucus Chair county officials and influencing legislation in Another former State Legislator, Hudgens has the General Assembly. King is the 3rd vice Matt Hatchett Dublin been a stalwart Republican in addition to his president of the National Association of Minority Leader duties as Insurance Commissioner. He has also County Executives—putting him in line to Stacey Abrams Atlanta been one of the chief opponents to Obamacare become president of the prestigious national in the state, increasing his popularity in his red organization. Minority Whip home state. Carolyn Hugley Columbus JACK KINGSTON Minority Caucus Chair TIM HYNES Former Congressman President, Clayton State University Kingston, who gave up his Virgil Fludd Tyrone The former chair of the Georgia Humanities Savannah-based congressional Council has been a member of various Chambers seat and narrowly lost the GOP of Commerce and is a cheerleader for developing U.S. Senate nomination to now- as well as pressure from those concerned about the south metro Atlanta area. He is also an edu- U.S. Sen. David Perdue, is the environment. cation and economic visionary. He pushed for retained by the Washington, D.C., government and oversaw completion of a $25 million CSU sci- relations firm of Squire Patton Boggs to work TOM FRIEDAN ence center and is currently spearheading spe- on business development and strategic con- Director, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention cialized training for his students seeking nearby sulting. He is also winning new friends and The sixteenth Director of the CDC, jobs in the growing movie/TV industry. influencing people by raising money for the this former New York City Health state GOP through its Republican Foundation Commissioner has seen the BROOKS KEEL that he heads. agency through the Ebola scare President, Augusta University and has aggressively targeted dis- The former president of Georgia DON LEEBERN JR. eases ranging from influenza to obesity. Southern University “came back CEO, Georgia Crown Distributing Co. Employing over 15,000 workers, the CDC is also home” to Augusta last year upon This generous philanthropist, the longest-serv- a massive employer in Atlanta and beyond. taking the helm of the renamed ing member of the state Board of Regents, is Augusta University (a merger of the “the conscience” of that body. The one-time LARRY GELLERSTEDT old Augusta State University and the former University of Georgia football player is the third President/CEO Cousins Properties Medical College of Georgia.) He also serves as generation member of his family to oversee this In his 6th year as President and CEO of Cousins CEO of the Georgia Regents Health System, and major adult beverage distributor. He and his Properties, Gellerstedt has expanded the port- is effectively working to repair community ties son Don III, also a savvy businessman and mar- folio of the real estate investment firm with damaged by his politically tone-deaf predecessor. keter who is Georgia Crown’s president, con- properties throughout the South. With a back- tinue to grow their company. ground in Healthcare, Gellerstedt also was a JOHNNY ISAKSON key figure in the creation of Children’s U.S. Senator, Georgia Healthcare of Atlanta in 1998. Georgia’s senior senator, who helped build the modern state GOP, is a businessman who has GEORGIA STATEWIDE JOHN HEAGY III served as head of the state Board of Education ELECTED OFFICIALS Chairman, Perimeter CID and as a congressman. James has often praised The Senior Managing Director of the Isakson as the epitome of diligence and willing- Governor Southeast Regional office of Hines, an interna- ness to work across party lines without com- Nathan Deal Gainesville tional real estate firm, leads the DeKalb promising core conservative principles. Perimeter Community Improvement District Isakson, the only senator to chair two panels— Lt. Governor that aims to improve transportation and other the ethics and veterans’ affairs committees— Casey Cagle Chestnut Mountain aspects of the Perimeter’s infrastructure by maintains excellent constituent service and Secretary of State using money from property taxes. The CID’s will easily win re-election. Brian Kemp Athens improvements over the past 15 years have Attorney General been valued at over $146 million. BRIAN KEMP Georgia Secretary of State Sam Olens Marietta DOUGLAS HOOKER Re-elected in 2014, he is trying to Labor Commissioner Executive Director, Atlanta Regional Commission repair the image of the office after Mark Butler Carrollton As head honcho for the ARC, an embarrassing 2015 data leak of State School Superintendant which is the official infrastructure personal information involving planning organization for the sev- millions of Georgians. He is Richard Woods Tifton enty city, ten county Atlanta hailed, however, as the brainchild behind ini- Agriculture Commissioner region, Hooker has overseen devel- tiating the successful March 1 “SEC” primary Gary Black Commerce opment in one of the nation’s fastest growing which featured mostly Southern states voting Insurance Commissioner on the same day to give themselves more regions. He also has deep community roots, Winterville clout in the 2016 presidential primaries. Ralph Hudgens

GEORGIA PUBLIC GRIFF LYNCH HALA MODDELMOG SERVICE COMMISSION Executive Director, Georgia Ports Authority CEO, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce The current COO of the Ports Two years ago this successful businesswoman District 1 Authority succeeds longtime direc- became the first female to become president H. Doug Everett Albany tor Curtis Foltz. Lynch will be over- and CEO of this important business & political District 2 seeing the massive Savannah har- player. Previously, she headed the Susan G. Tim Echols Bogart bor deepening project, and is Komen for the Cure foundation and Church’s District 3 responsible for the nearly $85 billion in revenue Chicken. Last year she initiated an extensive that comes through the state’s deepwater ports marketing campaign which is already paying Chuck Eaton Atlanta and inland barge terminals. dividends in attracting more businesses and District 4 people to Atlanta. Lauren “Bubba” BERNIE MARCUS McDonald, Jr. Clarkesville Co-Founder, Home Depot ALLISON MORAN The Home Depot co-founder has become a CEO, RaceTrac District 5 major philanthropist in his retirement. The Moran is just the second ever CEO Stan Wise Marietta $250 million he donated to build the Georgia of RaceTrac, after her father Carl Aquarium grabbed headlines, but his involve- Bolch for whom she took over in ment in Autism Speaks, the Salvation Army, 2012. The gas station chain now CRAIG LESSER and many other charities have earned him a boasts over 650 stores in 12 south- Managing Partner, The Pendleton Group spot in ‘The Chronicle of Philanthropy’s’ list of ern states, and is consistently named as one of The well-connected Lesser, the state’s com- top charitable donors in the country. the top places to work in the country. missioner of economic development under for- mer Gov. Sonny Perdue, has chaired both the KYLE MARRERO JERE W. MOREHEAD World Trade Center of Atlanta and the World President, University of West Georgia President, University of Georgia Chamber of Commerce. He heads the Atlanta Since taking over in 2013, Marrero has seen As the 22nd president of the University of Regional Commission’s Regional Economic record enrollment and fundraising totals for Georgia, the former provost has overseen sev- Competitiveness Strategy, while continuing to UWG, has won multiple awards, and has estab- eral major construction projects for a school consult clients on economic development and lished himself as a key figure in the Carroll that is rapidly growing both physically and in government affairs. County community by creating the Carroll academic stature. County Education Collaborative, an organization JOHN LEWIS devoted to K-16 academic success for students. DAVID NAHMIAS Congressman Justice, Supreme Court of Georgia Lewis, first elected to the U.S. SAM MASSELL This former U.S. Attorney for the Northern House of Representatives in 1986, The Buckhead Coalition District of Georgia was appointed to the state’s chaired the Student Non-Violent If Buckhead was its own city, Supreme Court in 2009. Nahmias once clerked Coordinating Committee for a time Massell would be its mayor, and as for the recently deceased U.S. Supreme Court during the turbulent civil rights founder of the Buckhead Coalition Justice Antonin Scalia, and shares some of his struggle of the 1960s. He is now the only living he has essentially served as just that conservative, constitutional leanings. “Big Six” leader of that movement. Lewis is high- for the better part of three decades. ly effective in serving in the House Democratic The former (actual) Atlanta mayor made his mark LAMAR NORTON caucus whip, or vote-counting, organization. in real-estate and is also deeply involved in phil- Executive Director, Georgia Municipal Association anthropic efforts throughout the city. Director since 2012, Norton deserves much of BRIAN LIVESAY the credit for the economic upturn experienced Managing partner, Atlanta Metro Studios RICH MCKAY by Atlanta during his tenure. An expert on gov- The Sandy Springs businessman is co-founder, President/CEO, Atlanta Falcons ernmental relations, he has used that knowledge along with Ed Richardson, of the soon-to-open A former General Manager both in Tampa and to make sure city officials are well equipped to Atlanta Metro Studios in Union City. He found- Atlanta, McKay now oversees all off-the-field battle it out in the public policy arena. ed Atlanta-based Radish Lighting, which goings on for the Falcons, most notably serving enjoys working relationships with film and TV as point man for the under-construction GEORGIA CONGRESSIONAL production studios around the country, and is a Mercedes-Benz Stadium. He also serves as DELEGATION leading provider of theatrical lighting equip- Chairman of the NFL’s Competition Committee, ment to film studios. making him among the most influential front office executives in the league. UNITED STATES SENATORS DENNIS LOCKHART Senior Senator Junior Senator President/CEO, Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta RUSSELL MCMURRY Johnny Isakson David Perdue The head of the Atlanta Fed since Commissioner, Georgia DOT Marietta Sea Island 2007, as well as a board member of Beginning his career with the various local and global business Georgia Department of Transpor- US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES organizations, Lockhart is a mem- tation, McMurry has worked his ber of the Federal Open Market way up to the top, being named District 1 Buddy Carter Pooler Committee responsible for setting the nation’s Commissioner in January of 2015. District 2 Sanford Bishop Albany monetary policy. Pretty influential— not just for He now oversees the 10th largest road system District 3 Lynn Westmoreland Grantville Georgia but for the entire nation! in the nation and all the upgrades, repairs, District 4 Hank Johnson Lithonia expansions, and funding debates that come District 5 John Lewis Atlanta KELLY LOEFFLER with the job. Vice President, Intercontinental Exchange District 6 Tom Price Roswell One half of James’ 2015 ‘Most Influential CEASAR MITCHELL District 7 Rob Woodall Lawrenceville Georgians’, Loeffler helps run ICE, which owns President, Atlanta City Council District 8 Austin Scott Augusta the New York Stock Exchange, along with hus- The native Atlantan is already the second high- District 9 Doug Collins Gainesville band Jeff Sprecher. She also co-owns Atlanta’s est ranking elected official in the city, and District 10 Jody Hice Monroe WNBA team, the Dream. many onlookers expect him to be a top con- District 11 Barry Loudermilk Cassville tender for the role of mayor in the next election District 12 Rick Allen Augusta cycle. Mitchell has the resume to back up that lofty aspiration, with a career in public service District 13 David Scott Atlanta as a lawyer. District 14 Tom Graves Ranger SAM OLENS over the state. Georgia’s first Republican chief formulating policy to abolish and replace the Attorney General executive played a key role in his cousin David’s “Obamacare” system. One of the most prominent politi- successful U.S. senatorial run in 2014, showing cal figures in the state, Olens has that the Perdue name still carries a great deal of DAVID RALSTON fought for increased governmental political clout. And he continues to grow his Speaker, State House of Representatives transparency, state water rights, lucrative business ventures. A one-time state senator elected in 1992, and Patient Protection, and much more a longtime practicing attorney, the hard-work- during his time as Attorney General. The pos- G.P. “BUD” PETERSON ing Ralston forged order out of chaos since his sibility of a gubernatorial run looms in 2018. President, Georgia Institute of Technology colleagues voted him as “Mr. Speaker.” He is Georgia Tech, one of the nation’s top public uni- one of the state’s most powerful elected offi- KEITH PARKER versities, is globally recognized for its engineer- cials and, as a skillful negotiator, obviously has CEO & GM, MARTA ing programs— and this reputation has been a major say in setting General Assembly leg- MARTA has seen a resurgence of epic propor- enhanced by Peterson’s leadership and vision. islative priorities and getting laws passed. tions since Parker took over the organization in Peterson is currently grappling with federal Title 2012, and the former CEO for transit systems in IX-generated problems regarding better due KASIM REED San Antonio deserves much of the credit. More process for Tech students accused of harass- Mayor, City of Atlanta and more counties are voting to include them- ment— a growing issue on many campuses. A one-time state lawmaker now in his second selves in the next round of expansion, and mayoral term (he’s term-limited) Reed reformed despite some resistance from lawmakers at the MICHAEL POLK the city’s pension system and continues to Capitol it seems inevitable that the nation’s 9th President/CEO Newell Rubbermaid secure funds (with voter approval) to address largest transit system continues to grow. Polk has been busy since being Atlanta’s transportation and infrastructure named President and CEO in 2011, needs. Although a partisan Democrat, he has DAVID PERDUE engineering the acquisition of the worked effectively with Governor Deal and U.S. Senator Jarden Corporation last year which other Republicans on issues ranging from As a conservative freshman Senator, the one- created one of the largest con- Savannah harbor expansion project to trans- time Fortune 500 company CEO Perdue is sumer goods companies not just in America, portation needs. already making a name for himself in the but in the whole world. nation’s capital with thoughtful policy state- RALPH REED ments and votes on a wide range of issues from TOM PRICE Faith & Freedom Coalition Chairman budget reform to U.S.-Israeli relations. A rising Congressman Headquartered in the Buckhead star in the party, expect to see Perdue’s name a The fiscally-conservative Fulton County section of Atlanta, the one-time lot more in coming years. Republican is one of the South’s most power- Christian Coalition head, former ful lawmakers due to his chairmanship of the Georgia GOP chairman and politi- SONNY PERDUE U.S. House Budget Committee and his effec- cal strategist now leads the tradi- Former Governor tive media messaging. The former orthopedic tional religious-oriented Faith and Freedom As we noted in last year’s listing, the former doctor has added clout as past chairman of Coalition. Reed continues to grow the FFC and two-term governor’s shadow still looms large the GOP Study Committee and is a leader in its members in Georgia and elsewhere are a major force in promoting or opposing legisla- HOUSE COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN tion at the state and national level. Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Higher Education Motor Vehicles VIC REYNOLDS Tom McCall Elberton Carl Rogers Gainesville Tom Rice Norcross District Attorney, Cobb Judicial Circuit Appropriations Human Relations & Aging Natural Resources & Environment This dedicated prosecutor, currently pursuing Terry England Auburn Tommy Benton Jefferson Lynn Smith Newnan many high-profile cases, has established a Banks & Banking Industry & Labor Public Safety & Homeland Security well-deserved statewide reputation. He is a Greg Morris Vidalia Jason Shaw Lakeland Alan Powell Hartwell leader in forming a mental health court and Budget & Fiscal Affairs Oversight Information & Audits Regulated Industries forged a hard-charging special gang prosecuto- Chuck Martin Alpharetta Mike Cheokas Americus Howard Maxwell Dallas rial unit. He further works with state legislators Code Revision Insurance Retirement on laws granting stronger powers to combat Gerald Greene Cuthbert Richard H. Smith Columbus Paul Battles Cartersville the criminal gang menace. Defense & Veterans Affairs Interstate Cooperation Rules John P. Yates Griffin Matt Dollar Marietta John Meadows Calhoun ED RICHARDSON Economic Development & Tourism Intragovernmental Coordination Science & Technology Co-CEO, Atlanta Metro Studios Ron Stephens Savannah Jan Tankersley Brooklet Ed Setzler Acworth The owner of a Georgia-based production Education Judiciary Small Business Development company and an independent film and tele- Brooks Coleman Duluth Wendell Willard Sandy Springs Bubba Epps Dry Branch vision producer, Richardson (along with Energy, Utilities, & Telecommunications Judiciary Non-Civil Special Rules Brian Livesay) is the managing partner of Don Parsons Marietta Rich Golick Smyrna Rick Jasperse Jasper Atlanta Metro Studios. Currently nearing Ethics Juvenile Justice State Planning & Community Affairs completion in Union City just south of the Joe Wilkinson Sandy Springs Tom Weldon Ringgold Jimmy Pruett Eastman Atlanta airport, their movie/TV studios are Game, Fish, & Parks Legislative & Congressional State Properties the largest of its kind in North America. David Knight Griffin Reapportionment Barbara Sims Augusta Richardson is a huge supporter of the state’s Randy Nix LaGrange Governmental Affairs Transportation movie industry as well as the new Film Ed Rynders Albany MARTOC Christian Coomer Cartersville Academy. Atlanta Metro Studios also estab- Tom Taylor Dunwoody Health & Human Services Ways & Means lished a scholarship program to assist stu- Sharon Cooper Marietta Jay Powell Camilla dents interested in entering the industry. EARL ROGERS President/CEO, Georgia Hospital Association Environmental Law Center and Turner Atlanta Chambers of Commerce, as well as play- The Georgia Hospital Association Environmental Law Clinic at Emory University ing key role on Atlanta Beltline Inc., his finger- is consistently among the most School of Law and the Atlanta Sports Council. prints are all over the city’s business community. powerful lobbying groups in the state, and Rogers unsurprisingly DAVID SHAFER MIGUEL SOUTHWELL one of the top lobbyists. With a Georgia Senate President Pro Tempore General Manager, Hartfield-Jackson Intnl. Airport long career in governmental affairs, Rogers has A former James “Georgia Legislator of the Southwell has overseen multiple decades of experience to draw from as he Year,” (surely the highlight on a long resume) major projects at the world’s works on a variety of healthcare issues under Shafer has served as the highest ranking mem- busiest airport in his two years at the Gold Dome. ber of the state Senate since 2013. He has the helm, including the construc- received top grades from multiple Conservative tion of a new international termi- CANDICE SAUNDERS organizations for his votes, as well as from the nal and the renovation of several entrance President/CEO, WellStar Georgia Chamber of Commerce. Perhaps best ramps. His vast wealth of experience in avia- Former President of WellStar’s Kennestone known for his expertise on budget issues, he tion management serves the city, and its crown Hostpital, which became the largest tertiary continues to be among the most prominent jewel of an airport, well. regional medical center in the Southeast under names at the Capitol. her leadership, Saunders was promoted to JEFF SPRECHER President of the entire company in 2015. A ALANA SHEPHERD CEO, Intercontinental Exchange chair on the Georgia Hospital Association, she Co-Founder, Shepherd Spinal Center The Sandy Springs-based founder/CEO of is well positioned to guide one of the state’s As one of the first spinal centers in Intercontinental-Exchange has expanded the eminent hospital systems. the South, the Shepherd Center company from one asset class into nine global has received national acclaim as a DAVID SCOTT hospital and rehabilitation center. GEORGIA MAYORS U.S. Congressman Shepherd has been a champion for Now in his seventh term as a U.S. Congressman the disabled, fighting for increased accessibil- TOP CITIES representing parts of six counties around ity on MARTA and at Hartsfield-Jackson air- Atlanta, it’s clear that Scott is popular with his port, which now is among the most accessible Atlanta Kasim Reed constituents. With an extensive record of fight- in the world. ing for farmers, veterans, and distressed home- Augusta Hardie Davis owners, it’s easy to see why. BETH SHIROISHI Columbus President, AT&T Georgia Teresa Tomlinson RUTHERFORD SEYDEL Georgia native Shiroishi worked her way up Brookhaven John Ernst CEO, Upper Chattahoochee RiverKeeper Fund the ladder over fifteen years with AT&T, and Athens This prominent Atlanta attorney was named as President of the Georgia office in Nancy Denson and philanthropist co-founded the 2014. Heavily involved with the philanthropic Sandy Springs Rusty Paul Upper Chattahoochee RiverKeeper arm of the company, she has overseen a variety Alpharetta Fund, a well-known environmen- of charitable efforts undertaken by the telecom- David Belle Isle talist voice. He is an owner of munications giant. Macon Robert Reichert Atlanta Spirit, serves as vice chairman of The Johns Creek Conservation Fund and is a member of the JOHN W. SOMERHALDER II Mike Bodker Georgia State Properties Commission. Seydel Chairman, President & CEO, AGL Resources Inc. Albany Dorothy Hubbard also sits on the board of the Southern Somerhalder, in addition to his duties as President of a major energy holding company, is Smyrna Max Bacon heavily involved in the Atlanta community. Savannah Eddie DeLoach Serving on the boards of the Georgia and Metro markets for interest rates, equities and equity series of record-breaking classes during his time ago, it aptly cited his professionalism, character derivatives, credit derivatives, bonds, foreign leading the University. Underwood has also and service to not only his county but to his exchange, energy, metals and agricultural com- helped launch two additional medical campuses, state. He is known nationally as an influential modities. Sprecher, who purchased the New and has put an impetus on advanced degrees. lawman, has appeared on cable television York Stock Exchange in 2013, has led numerous shows to speak out on policy issues, and Fox strategic acquisitions. He is an Atlanta civic T. ROGERS WADE News named him as one of the toughest immi- and philanthropic leader, and chairs the Chairman, Georgia Public Policy Foundation gration enforcement sheriffs in the nation. Buckhead Coalition of business leaders. A longtime behind-the-scenes player in Georgia politics, Wade has LYNN WESTMORELAND LEE THOMAS advised leaders from former US Congressman Deputy Commissioner Sen. Herman Talmadge to Gov. Conservative Westmoreland, a former GOP state Georgia Film, Music & Digital Entertainment Nathan Deal. Aside from guiding legislator first elected to Congress in 2006, won A key player in what has become one of his beloved, Georgia Public Policy Foundation plaudits for his forthright, probing questions as Georgia’s most prominent, (and profitable) think tank, he serves on the board of the Georgia a member of the House Select Committee on industries, Thomas helps provide the economic Chamber of Commerce as well as on the state Benghazi. He effectively chairs the House incentives that have drawn Hollywood to the Board of Regents. Subcommittee of the NSA and Cybersecurity, Peach State. but has opted not to run for re-election. He may JAMES WAGNER be eyeing retirement or a future elective office. HUGH P. THOMPSON President, Emory University Chief Justice, Supreme Court of Georgia President of the state’s most academically elite J. ALVIN WILBANKS Named Chief Justice after nearly twenty years school since 2003, Wagner has turned record- Gwinnett County School Superintendent on the Court, Thompson has made better setting fundraising into a ten year strategic plan The head of this diverse and access to lawyers and alternative sentencing that has transformed the campus. He is also a nationally-recognized public school for non-violent offenders priorities during his notable figure in the community, serving on the system has been on the job since tenure as head of the state’s highest court. boards of several local companies and organiza- 1996 and keeps forging ahead with tions including SunTrust and The Carter Center. progress. The district has continu- CHRIS TOMLINSON ally won, or been a finalist for, the coveted Executive Director, State Road & Toll Authority CHUCK WARBINGTON Broad Prize. It honors districts making the SRTA, with its unique financing ED, Gwinnett Village CID greatest progress nationwide in raising student abilities, is just as important as the A lifelong Gwinnett resident, Warbington achievement and reducing achievement gaps state Department of Transportation helped found the state’s largest Community among low- and non-low income groups. in planning and leading the effort to Improvement District in 2006. Since then he expand transportation infrastruc- has undertaken a series of major projects such PHILIP WILHEIT SR. ture. Tomlinson is a steady helmsman guiding as the Jimmy Carter Bridge over I-85. Gwinnett, President/CEO, Wilheit Packaging Materials the ship, especially with variable optional tolling one of the nation’s fastest growing counties, Forty years in the packaging business has on major roadways the wave of the future. should count itself lucky to have him. turned into an impressive civic resume, includ- ing stints as Chairman of the Georgia Chamber WILLIAM UNDERWOOD NEIL WARREN of Commerce, former Statewide Chairman for President, Mercer University Sheriff, Cobb County the Deal for Governor Campaign, Chair of the Mercer’s 18th President has overseen a twenty When Warren was named “Sheriff of the Year” Georgia Board of Regents, and a slew of other percent increase in student enrollment and a by the Georgia Sheriffs Association two years board memberships. One look at his accom- plishments tells the story as to Wilheit’s influ- all “objective” news operations, is described by SENATE COMMITTEES ence in the state of Georgia. AJC insiders as the “Prince of Darkness” in & CHAIRMEN terms of slanting and omitting news stories that JOHN A. WILLIAMS doesn’t fit his liberal worldview. And, he’s mar- Real Estate Developer ried to an openly left-wing political activist. Administrative Affairs Founder of Atlanta’s wildly popular David Schafer Duluth Post Properties, Williams later JIM COX KENNEDY became CEO of Preferred Apartment Chairman, Cox Enterprises Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Communities, which has exploded The grandson of Cox Enterprises John Wilkinson Toccoa from its Atlanta base to acquire thou- founder James Cox, Kennedy cur- Appropriations sands of apartment units and nearly a dozen retail rently serves as chairman to the Jack Hill Reidsville centers in markets across the country. A notable media empire. A renowned philan- Banking & Financial Institutions figure not only in Georgia, but nation-wide. thropist and nature enthusiast, his Burt Jones Jackson reach doesn’t stop with his family’s business. STAN WISE As we’ve said before: When you are worth over Economic Development & Tourism Public Service Commissioner $6 billion, it’s hard not to be influential. Brandon Beach Alpharetta Now in a fourth term as a Public Service Education & Youth Commissioner, the former Cobb County com- TIM MCVAY Lindsey Tippins Marietta missioner is an expert on many government Vice President/General Manager, WSB-TV energy regulations, both local and federal, and is MISTI TURNBILL Ethics respected statewide. A champion of clean, safe News Director, WSB-TV Dean Burke Bainbridge nuclear power, Wise last year testified before As the flagship station of Cox Media Group, Finance Congress on pipeline safety and continues to WSB and its five sister radio stations have Judson Hill Marietta crusade for fair treatment for Georgia under more viewers, (and listeners) than any other Obama administration carbon emission rules. local station in America. McVay, who has Government Oversight been with Cox his entire career, became WSB Bill Heath Bremen ANDREW YOUNG general manager in 2011. He and News Health & Human Services Former Atlanta Mayor, Former U.N. Ambassador Director Misti Turnbull are engaged in a fierce Renee S Unterman Buford One of the names on this list that will wind up in ratings war with Fox5Atlanta WAGA-TV history textbooks, Young was a major player in the these days. Higher Education Civil Rights movement alongside Martin Luther Fran Millar Atlanta King, and later became a U.S. Congressman, WILLIAM S. ‘BILLY’ MORRIS III Insurance & Labor Atlanta Mayor, and Ambassador to the United Chairman/CEO, Morris Communications Corp. Charlie Bethel Dalton Nations under Jimmy Carter. He is credited as WILLIAM S. ‘WILL’ MORRIS IV CEO/Morris Venture Capital Interstate Cooperation being one of the driving forces behind making Atlanta the international hub that it is today. Morris corporate headquarters is in Augusta, Donzella James Dalton but its operations include newspapers, maga- Judiciary zines and other media holdings in various Josh McKoon Columbus ::media:: states. Billy Morris celebrates 50 years this year as the flagship Augusta Chronicle publisher; Judiciary Non-Civil DAVID RUBINGER son Will IV has come into his own as a worthy Jesse Stone Waynesboro Publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle successor to run the family business. Natural Resources & the Environment DAVID ALLISON Frank Ginn Danielsville Editor, Atlanta Business Chronicle DINK NESMITH New publisher Rubinger, who took over from Ed President/Co-owner, Community Newspapers Public Safety Baker last year, continues to grow one of the NeSmith’s Community Newspapers Tyler Harper Ocilla largest business journals in the country. Allison publishes over two dozen papers in Reapportionment & Redistricting is effective because he sees the Atlanta business Georgia and surrounding states. He Mike Crain Newnan climate the same way his business readership has served as chairman of the does: As something that’s evolving every day. Regulated Industries & Utilities Georgia Board of Regents, president Rick Jeffares McDonough of the Georgia Press Association, emeritus OTIS BRUMBY III trustee of the University of Georgia Foundation Retirement Publisher, Marietta Daily Journal and is active in various civic organizations. Chuck Hufstetler Rome A third generation of Brumbys has established himself as a Cobb TYLER PERRY Rules County power to be reckoned with, Jeff Mullis Chickamauga Actor, Director, Playwright, Producer just like his father. Otis Brumby III Perry does it all, and he is well compensated Science & Technology publishes the Marietta Daily for it. In 2011 Forbes called him “the highest Bruce Thompson White Journal, Neighbor Newspapers & Cherokee paid man in entertainment.” A key supporter Special Judiciary Tribune, and his acquisition of the Rome news- (and fundraiser) of President Barack Obama, Curt Thompson Tucker paper further enhances his reputation as one of Perry’s political clout isn’t something to be Georgia’s foremost newsmen. overlooked. State & Local Governmental Operations John Albers Roswell LEWIS W. DICKEY, JR. BILL SCHNEIDER State Institutions & Property Chairman/President/CEO, Cumulus Media Vice President/General Manager, Fox5/WAGA-TV DAVID DICKEY Ed Harbison Columbus MIKE MCCLAIN President, Dickey Broadcasting Company Vice President/News Director Transportation These are prominent media movers-and-shak- Schneider arrived here from Tampa six years Tommie Williams Lyons ers. Atlanta-based Cumulus Media is the sec- ago and, along with the hard-charging McClain Urban Affairs ond largest owner and operator of AM and FM and his team, boosted ratings and are now Lester Jackson Savannah radio stations in America. Dickey Broadcasting close competitors to the once-dominant Cox- Company, a subsidiary of Cumulus, is credited owned WSB-TV in the Atlanta market. Veterans, Military, & Homeland Security with launching sports talk radio in Atlanta. Hunter Hill Atlanta BERT ROUGHTON Print Managing Editor, Atlanta Journal-Constitution This key editor, while not having final say over Creating economic opportunities, locally & globally.

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© 2016 Dentons. Dentons is a global legal practice providing client services worldwide through its member firms and affiliates. Please see dentons.com for Legal Notices. *Acritas Global Elite Law Firm Brand Index 2013-2015. A Presidential Election Unlike Any Other RANDY EVANS  [email protected] Every four years voters hear redundantly over the airwaves tired of the system that exists today. and in print that this is THE most important election in Probably the best illustration of the change is in the history. And from a purely temporal standpoint, it probably Republican Primary where traditionally loyal evangelicals always is. After all, the most recent election is typically the have re-emerged in unexpected ways to change the most consequential for where the country goes next. trajectory of the Republican nomination. Once loyal to a fault But even the most seasoned political veterans now to certain key hot-button issues, a new recognition has readily admit that there is indeed something emerged based on much more fundamental different about this presidential election including concepts of freedom, divorced from government the nomination of the respective party nominees coerced behavior, and in favor of ending the war and the potential for a real, well- funded third party against religion in the public square. candidate. When a vacancy on an evenly divided Democrats are faring no better in this E4-to-4 member U.S. Supreme Court is added to the transformative election. The overwhelming favorite equation, the stakes only get higher. Hillary Clinton struggles with a self-described Yet even that does not sufficiently describe Socialist the same way she struggled with then- what is at stake. There are 34 U.S. Senate seats up Sen. Barack Obama in 2008. Although much is for grabs with the Republicans only holding a four- made of the shift among young voters toward a vote margin, not counting who the next vice more socialistic society, the reality is that many president will be. Of that number only 10 are Democratic voters, young and old, make clear that Democrats. Republicans must defend 24 GOP they are just not comfortable putting their (and the seats, and some of them are in tough places Democratic Party’s) future in former Secretary of without incumbents. State Clinton’s hands. Complicating the Republicans’ already tenuous Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush faced this same position, many of their incumbents face Republican kind of pushback in the Republican primary and left primary challenges in a myriad of states with Sens. the race. The biggest difference was that he had 16 Richard Shelby (Ala.), John Coozman (Ark.), John opponents and not just one. Yet both Clinton and McCain (Ariz.), Mark Kirk (Ill.), Rand Paul (Ky.), Bush illustrate a core dissatisfaction with the Richard Burr (NC), and Rob Portman (OH) with political class in Washington, D.C.— regardless of primary opposition. Then there are the retirees whether Democrats or Republicans. leaving open seats like Marco Rubio in Florida, Dan Make no mistake, there are groups that Coats in Indiana and David Vitter seat in Louisiana. remain loyal to the cause regardless of the merits. Add to it the possibility of a true outsider The Republican establishment and the nominee, and even the House of Representatives Democratic stalwarts of unions and African- drifts into jeopardy for the Republicans. Those are Americans remain big impediments to the kind of the stakes for the 2016 Presidential election— change that many Americans want. And, in the every branch of government at play— the United end, these groups may win out with rules rigged States Supreme Court, the United States Senate, the to assure their likely success. United States House of Representatives, and the President But, so far, this election appears to defy the odds and of the United States. the rules, with outsiders continuing as constant challengers At no time in American history have such pivotal to a system that appears as outdated as a rotary phone and positions in the national government all been at play in a as reliable as a candle on a windy day. In the era of text- single election cycle. But, depending on how the nomination messaging and LED lights, voters seem insistent on moving processes for both parties play out, they will be in 2016. the federal government into the 21st century. And based on Yet, oddly enough, this is what this column predicted candidate qualifying in Georgia, the insurgency has now before the election cycle started because “a fundamental filtered all the way down to the local level. transformation of the American electorate is underway, leading to unexpected successes by candidates no one expected to have a chance.” Traditional notions of the hot buttons that have triggered reliable voter responses are in a complete state of flux with new motivations by voters AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW BY STAFF WRITER CINDY MORLEY Georgian of the Year PAUL BOWERS Paul Bowers became chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power in 2010, having previously served as chief financial officer of Southern Company. His business, civic and charitable service is wide-ranging and impressive— which is why James designates Paul Bowers as our “Georgian of the Year.” His board memberships include serving on the University System Board of Regents, the Georgia Research Alliance, the Georgia Historical Society, the Atlanta Committee for Progress and the Policy Advisory Board for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. He is also the 2015 chairman of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

CINDYMORLEY We know utilities affect everyone’s wal- more than three decades at Plant Vogtle in Waynesboro. let. How do you keep your company’s costs and rates low? In addition, Southern Company is in the process of acquiring AGL Resources to ensure we can continue to PAUL BOWERS Georgia Power’s mission is to deliver have adequate access to natural gas. As our customers’ safe, clean, reliable and affordable energy to our cus- needs evolve, we are planning to be there to offer the tomers. To do that, we must balance keeping costs low customer service and affordable, reliable energy options with exceptional customer service and maintaining reli- they deserve. able generating and transmission systems. We believe in a diverse portfolio of energy options, including renew- CM Storms are a constant threat in Georgia— from ice to able resources, such as solar and wind, as well as natural thunderstorms, tornadoes and hurricanes. How does gas, hydro, nuclear and coal-fired generation. We know Georgia Power prepare and respond? that 40 to 50 percent of all power costs are associated with fuel costs. It’s those fuel costs that can drive cost PB We know we are going to have storms in Georgia. The up or down. By having such a diverse energy portfolio, focus for us is to quickly restore electricity and repair any we can take advantage of the fuel mix that best benefits storm damage. The most important task is for us to our customers. ensure constant information and communications with our customers. CM How do your rates/prices compare nationwide? CM How does technology help Georgia Power maintain PB We are consistently in the range of 10-15 percent reliable service and communications with customers? below the national average and we are currently at 13 percent below. PB We understand the importance of the energy infra- structure to day-to-day operations in homes, businesses, CM How is Georgia Power evolving to meet customer commercial and industrial facilities. We have been invest- demand? ing in smart grid technology for several years. Our sys- tems allow us to pinpoint exactly where the problem is on PB We are planning for the future of energy in Georgia. the grid and contain the issue within the smallest area Every three years, we look at a 20-year planning horizon possible to reduce impacts to customers. through our Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which we Social media has given us a real-time platform to filed with the Public Service Commission in January. communicate with our customers. We are also able to Through this process, we consider economic conditions, show customers an outage map that keeps them fuel prices, technology costs (solar, wind, nuclear, etc.), informed of where power outages are and how long they and existing and future environmental regulations to will last. ensure we are providing the most reliable and economic fuel mix for our customers. We are growing our renewable CM Energy plays a crucial role in economic development portfolio and are building the first new nuclear units in across the state. What roles does Georgia Power play in economic development? How do you work with the state? PB Georgia Power is 132 years old, and many years ago the technical college route. These skills provide stu- one of our founders recognized the economic value of dents with a good career, good income and a hope for growing the state. We’ve built our company on that theo- the future. ry. We always ask ourselves: how can we ensure that these communities are competitive when trying to attract CM Constructing new units at Plant Vogtle is the first new business to their area? nuclear plant project in the U.S. in over 30 years. Why did Georgia Power has an economic development center you feel this was the right time? that provides a valuable resource for individual and com- panies looking to locate or start a business in Georgia. PB As a part of our Integrated Resource Plan process, we found that new nuclear was best option to meet the future CM Can you tell me about your “citizen where we serve” needs of Georgians. We have leveraged federal incentives culture at Georgia Power? offered through the Energy Policy Act of 2005, such as Production Tax Credits and the DOE Loan Guarantee, for PB Our goal is to create an environment where we make being first-movers in the nuclear industry re-start. Vogtle communities better because 3 and 4 will be 60-80 year we are there. That’s a big assets that will provide clean part of who we are. We want (emission-free), efficient and our employees to be a part of affordable energy to cus- their communities. tomers, keeping prices low and reliability high. CM How does Georgia Power give back to the communi- CM Tell us about the ties it serves? progress made at Plant Vogtle? PB Last year alone, the Georgia Power Foundation PB We are making great contributed $17 million for progress and achieving our different initiatives, had construction milestones. Unit 6,000 employees involved in 3 is at approximately 60 per- community activities and cent completion now. The donated more than 160,000 precise and complex work in community hours across the the nuclear island is being state. This immense effort performed at the highest would not have been possible quality. The Unit 3 turbine without the involvement of building is taking shape, with our current employees and the turbine deck concrete retirees. Again, being citi- poured. The Unit 3 cooling zens wherever we serve is an tower is complete and the integral part of who we are. new switchyard is being con- structed on schedule. CM Why do you focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics CM What about the economic impact of the project and (STEM) programs, especially in the earlier grades? the impact on your customers?

PB If we want to continue to grow our state, we need to PB This project is an economic engine for the state, espe- make sure our students are learning the STEM skill sets. cially the Burke County community. There are more than At Georgia Power alone, we hire 400 to 600 people a 5,800 people working at the plant site now, and expect to year. We want to ensure that we have an available, qual- employ 800 permanent positions when the project is ified workforce in the energy field with the proper skill complete. The project is also providing a tremendous tax set. We have touched more than 300,000 students in the base for the community— we are talking about more last three years, informing them about STEM careers than $150 million projected to date. Once the units are and planting the seed with them that they have options operational, Vogtle will be the only four-unit site in the for careers in energy. I have been an advocate for coun- U.S. and will provide benefits to the community and to seling students on career choices. We understand that our customers for decades to come. • not every child goes to college, but we like to talk about IT DOESN’T TAKE A GENIUS TO KNOW THAT WHEN YOU PLAY, GEORGIA’S KIDS WIN.

It’s elementary, actually. See, every time you play the Lottery, you’re helping our kids get one step closer to their dreams. For over 20 years the Georgia Lottery has contributed more than $17 billion to education. On top of that, more than 1.7 million HOPE scholars have gone to college and more than 1.4 million four- year-olds have attended a Lottery-funded Pre-K Program. Add those numbers up and, well, let’s just say that’s a hair-raising number of happy kids. Workforce, Economic Development Hurt by Equity in Education Gap EDUCATION by Dr. Dana Rickman

I recently attended an event hosted by the Corporate Dr. Putnam did provide a series of ideas on how to address Volunteer Council of Atlanta called The Power of Collective Impact. the growing economic segregation. He pointed to policy areas I will remember that day for two reasons. First, it was held such as wage growth, high quality early education, family February 29th, that “extra” day that we all get once every four leave, and investments in public education. However, his main years. The second reason was the subject matter. takeaway was: “it’s going to happen at the grass roots level.” Harvard University Professor Robert Putnam presented his This is not an issue the federal government is going to solve or best-selling book “Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis.” even one championed by state level policy makers. But the Putnam warned that America has increasingly grown into two solutions to the challenges facing our nation could be found in societies— the rich and the poor. Moreover, not only was the local communities coming together and taking on the respon- poor segment growing at alarming rates, but there is currently lit- sibility of our kids. Meaning, all the kids. tle to no contact between rich and poor, creating gaps in educa- One way for communities to meet these challenges head- tion, opportunity, income, and overall life trajectories. We have on is through the use of collective impact. Under a collective isolated from others who are different. This has consequences. impact model, cross sector leaders come together with a collec- Not only for individuals living in segregated poor populations, tive agenda for change. To help address the opportunity gaps but on the nation’s long term economic growth and viability. that exist in Atlanta, community leaders have come together This widening opportunity gap based on socio-economic and established Learn4Life (L4L), the Metropolitan Atlanta background has put the American dream in crisis. A Harvard Regional Education Partnership. This is a collaborative effort study has shown that American children are less likely than chil- that is bringing together local school systems, with community, dren living in other developed countries to grow up and make business and non-profit leaders to improve education out- more money than their parents. The lack of social mobility (the comes based on common goals and shared benchmarks. ability to work one’s way out of poverty) was especially promi- L4L’s leadership team, consisting of the Atlanta Regional nent in the southeast region, and the Atlanta metropolitan area Commission, The Community Foundation of Greater Atlanta, was ranked 49th out of the nation’s 50 largest commuting areas. the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, and the United Way Americans have long believed that, regardless of family of Greater Atlanta have partnered with six local school systems to background, all people should have an equal opportunity to focus on improving specific outcomes and key indicators of suc- work and improve their life and that education is the key to that cess. Collectively, L4L is working to ensure that all kids become opportunity. However, achievement gaps have made continuing actively engaged citizens who succeed in school, career, and life. on the education pathway a challenge for many. Students from The harsh reality is that Atlanta currently has the largest, our nation’s lowest income families are over twice as likely to most rapidly growing gap between rich and poor of any major drop out of high school as students from families in the top half city in America. As I listened to Dr. Putnam on my “extra day” of incomes. As for college going, the likelihood of college enroll- I was struck with the notion that there are no more “extra days.” ment for low-income high school graduates is less than 50 per- As a state, region, and nation, we are out of time. Children liv- cent, while 80 percent of their high-income peers will enroll. ing in poverty cannot wait for equitable opportunities to be pre- For Georgia, and the nation, this problem is compounded sented to them so they can work their way out of poverty and by our shifting demographics. The poverty rates are rapidly become productive citizens. Our workforce and economic increasing. In Georgia, economically disadvantaged students development plans cannot wait and just assume the next gen- are among the fastest growing percentage of the state’s school eration of workers will be up to the competitive challenge. age population and already number more than 60 percent of To maximize the state’s economic future, Georgia must enrolled students in the public K-12 system. These students have positive and effective leadership across all levels of the are less likely to be ready for kindergarten, reading on grade state and throughout local communities coming together to level by third grade, and graduate from high school compared champion equity for all kids. Georgia’s kids. Our kids. to their more affluent counterparts. As these students are Georgia’s future workforce, these growing achievement gaps Dr. Dana Rickman is the policy and research director for the are quickly becoming impossible to ignore. Georgia Partnership for Excellence in Education.

IT DOESN’T TAKE A ROCKET SCIENTIST TO HELP KIDS WITH THEIR EDUCATION.

galottery.com MARTA Redefined

BY KEITH T. PARKER

Redefining the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Research confirms that public transit systems that Authority is the singular mission for our transit invest in art and other cultural offerings are more system in order to thrive now and in the future. It attractive, safer and eventually generate more rev- will require us to abandon obsolete business prac- enue and engender greater public support. tices and embrace an entrepreneurial culture that encourages risk-taking and ceaseless innovation. Be Like Mike That means we must make MARTA a testing Most of all, our efforts to redefine MARTA will cen- ground for ideas, a laboratory where tech startups, ter on the boundless promise of technology. To help universities and trailblazing thinkers and leaders us envision this bold new MARTA and how it are welcome. We know that everything we try works, imagine “Mike,” our prototypical customer won’t meet our expectations. That’s OK. Great of the future. Years from now, Mike is a native New companies always learn as they go, and that’s how they grow. Yorker who makes a point of attending the Super Bowl every If we succeed, we can and will take MARTA in profoundly year. This year, Atlanta is hosting the Super Bowl at the state-of- different and exciting new directions. Let me share just a few. the-art Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mike has never been to Atlanta and never heard of MARTA, but that won’t stop him from seeing Last-Mile Connectivity the game and getting around the city. To arrange his trip from MARTA will continue working with lawmakers and other stake- start to finish, Mike pulls out his iPhone 10 and opens the holders to identify the long-term funding needed to build out the MARTA mobile app. From this app, he purchases tickets to the current footprint of our existing transit system. In the meantime, game, books his flight and reserves an Airbnb condo. He also Rwe’ll also build partnerships with ride-hailing such as Uber and uses his phone to load his MARTA fare for a trip that will take Lyft— as well as other private sector players— that are “disrupt- him from the artfully redesigned rail station at Hartsfield- ing” the transportation industry as we know it. Our goal is to find Jackson International Airport to the Peachtree Center condo ways of offering “last-mile” connectivity for commuters who pre- where he’ll be staying. Super Bowl weekend comes around, and fer a door-to-door experience so they don’t have to walk to their Mike boards the plane for Atlanta. Once he arrives, Mike hops destinations after taking a MARTA bus or train. We’re also mov- on a MARTA train and gets off at Peachtree Center Station in no ing forward with the Clayton County High-Capacity Transit time flat. Fast forward to game day. America’s favorite team, the Study that could result in commuter rail service, with the long- Oakland Raiders— I mean the Falcons— win the Super Bowl. term goal of extending commuter rail to the state’s mid-point and After the game, Mike pulls up another MARTA app to find a cel- eventually its southern border. MARTA’s Comprehensive ebration party closest to a rail station. He taps his phone and Operations Analysis, which will overhaul an outmoded “one- checks out a MARTA-branded bicycle that’s parked just outside size-fits-all” approach to bus service, is being finalized. Going for- the arena. He pedals onto one of the city’s dedicated bike lanes, ward, MARTA will deploy transit vehicles of varying types and beats traffic and arrives at the restaurant where the party is in full sizes to cover traditional bus routes as well as offering on- swing. He parks the bike in a nearby dock. After a fun night demand neighborhood circulators that will be branded to reflect (and maybe a little too much to drink), Mike pulls out his phone the unique character of the communities they serve. Our six again only to discover that MARTA has ended its rail service for major Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) projects will trans- the day. But from the MARTA app, he calls a MARTA-branded form MARTA’s underutilized parking lots into attractive places to autonomous car to pick him up and take him safely back to his live, work and play. TODs produce long-term revenue for condo. The next morning as Mike heads home to New York, he MARTA, build ridership and contribute to “creative place-mak- boards a MARTA train for the airport, arriving in plenty of time ing” that mixes commerce with cultural activities that promote to catch his flight. Sound farfetched? All of this travel flexibility, vibrant centers for community life.In the coming months, I plan convenience and effortlessness is possible, but it’s not going to to appoint a MARTA Arts Council comprising prominent arts happen tomorrow nor will it be quick or easy. But please know organizations and cultural leaders in metro Atlanta to develop a this: No matter what it takes, I plan to lead MARTA into an era comprehensive transit arts program. Rather than creating art for where we are nationally recognized as the premier public transit art’s sake, their focus will be “artful design” that’s aesthetically authority in the nation, meeting the needs of people like Mike pleasing as well as economical, durable and functional. We’re and thousands of others every day. embarking on this program as a prudent business decision. Keith Parker is General Manager/CEO of the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority. This article is based on his recent “State of MARTA” remarks.

GA-PCOM IMPACTING GEORGIA’S PHYSICIAN WORKFORCE BY H. WILLIAM CRAVER

ne of five medical schools in the state, the Sixty four percent of the Doctor of Osteopathic Georgia Campus of the Philadelphia College of Medicine (DO) Class of 2019 hail from Georgia and are Osteopathic Medicine (GA-PCOM) is a private, graduates of institutions such as the University of Onot-for-profit educational institution of higher education. Georgia, Georgia Tech, Georgia State University, It is the only branch campus of Philadelphia College of Kennesaw State University and Emory University. Osteopathic Medicine, founded in 1899, and has a storied Demand for the 135 seats in each class is steep as more history as a premier osteopathic medical school with a than 5,000 applications for the DO class have been rich tradition of training and placing Doctors of received for the incoming class of 2020. Osteopathic Medicine in primary and specialty care. At the core of the student experience are accomplished, Statewide Training expert faculty members who provide the foundation for The clerkship program provides third- and fourth-year rigorous instruction. students with the opportunity to examine, evaluate and Sponsored research projects promote opportunities participate in the care of patients. Clinical training rein- for collaborative research. A strong commitment to com- forces and expands the basic education acquired by stu- munity service is evident with nearly 6,500 hours of com- dents during the first two years of medical school. munity service coordinated through 30 students clubs Through such exposure, assessments and other evalua- and organizations each year. tive tools, clerkships provide students with the profes- PCOM’s more than 12,000 alumni include board-certi- sional and clinical skills needed for post-graduate resi- fied specialists, academic leaders and educators, as well dencies and ultimately licensure to practice medicine. as recognized practitioners and researchers. These osteo- The college curriculum of 23 clerkships includes 13 pathic physicians contribute to the health and positive core education opportunities. The remaining health outcomes of communities throughout the nation. elective/selective periods allow each student the time to The ten-year old Georgia campus is located in pursue his or her special interests. Training sites include Suwanee just north of Atlanta and educates more than hospitals as well as regional and community medical cen- 1,000 students each year offering doctoral degrees in ters in such communities as Columbus, Lawrenceville, osteopathic medicine and pharmacy, and master’s degrees Rome, Warner Robins, and next year in Moultrie. in biomedical sciences and physician assistant studies. Additionally, clerkships are offered at sites ranging from With a mission of responding to the acute need for private practices to urban and rural health centers. more healthcare providers to serve Georgia and the Southeast, GA-PCOM encourages graduates to serve the Impact on Primary Care underserved where the need is greatest— inner cities and rural areas with severe physician shortages. Approximately 25 percent of GA-PCOM medical students Accredited through the Commission on Osteopathic choose family medicine as their specialty, while another College Accreditation, the State of Georgia Nonpublic 25 percent choose internal medicine. A combined total of Postsecondary Education Commission, the about 57 percent of our students choose family medicine, Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Department of Education internal medicine, pediatrics or obstetrics/gynecology. and the Middle States Association of Colleges and When the highly needed specialties of emergency medi- Schools, the college is funded through tuition, grants and cine and general surgery are added to the mix, the total endowment income. of students entering these residency programs increases to almost 66 percent. Our Students With GA-PCOM’s focus on serving the underserved, the college is well on its way to making a contribution to Our students are diverse in gender, age and ethnicity the healthcare needs of the state. with both traditional and non-traditional students in the program. This year, PCOM received the 2015 Higher H. William Craver is the dean and chief academic officer, Georgia Education Excellence in Diversity (HEED) award from Campus—Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine. Sen. Steve Gooch Rep. Stacey Evans

A graduate of North Georgia College & State In politics the phrase “rising star” gets University, the Dahlonega Republican was thrown around every time a young legisla- elected in 2010 and represents a sprawling tor wins a seat. When it comes to Smyrna’s north Georgia district. The state Senator Stacey Evans, though, it couldn’t be more moved up the ranks with startling success merited. Since her election to the state following his election, being named chair- House in 2010, the Democrat attorney has man of the powerful Transportation become an articulate voice and face of the Committee in 2013 before being elected party in Georgia. She is known for her abil- majority whip of Senate Majority Caucus in 2014. He also has ity to get deals done across the aisle. And between leading a seat on the influential Appropriations Committee. the charge to help restore and preserve HOPE Scholarship With a background in transportation, Gooch this year funding and facing off against the bevy of “religious freedom” found himself at the center of the raging MARTA debate under bills, Evans has a track record of success that belies her short the Gold Dome, working with both Democrats and time at the Capitol. Republicans to find how best to address and provide funding With an A+ rating from the Georgia Chamber of Commerce for the city’s (and metropolitan region’s) rapidly growing trans- and a host of awards including “Legislator of the Year” from the portation needs. powerful Georgia Trial Lawyers Association in 2014, her A reliable political conservative who receives top marks resume is quickly running short on space. Her commendable from organizations such as the American Conservative Union commitment to public service includes a $500,000 donation to and the Georgia National Federation of Independent Business, the University of Georgia Law School to create a scholarship for as well as from the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Gooch has first-generation college graduates attending the law school. the voting record to back up his continuing ascension up the The lawmaker/wife/mother turned down the Democratic ranks of the Georgia Senate. Senatorial Campaign Committee when it was searching for a viable candidate to oppose U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson this November, but expect to hear her name again for future, higher office. Rep. Barry Fleming

The founding partner of the Fleming Nelson law firm in Augusta, the one-time chair- man of the Columbia County Commission was first elected to the state House in 2002. He left for an unsuccessful U.S. congressional race, and then was later elected to his current Harlem-based House seat in 2012. At the start of his second term, fellow Republicans elected him majority whip. He was instrumental in passing the photo ID law for voting and he chaired the com- mittee overseeing successful state tort reform. Fleming has sponsored or co-spon- sored numerous criminal justice system bills, meriting the “Guardian of Justice Award” from the Georgia District Attorney’s Association. He has garnered a “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and, for his strong pro-family positions, received the “Legislator of the year Award” from the Georgia Family Council. This hard-working lawmaker, known for effective constituent service, has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in the House chamber.

W AUGUSTA U. BLANKETS THE STATE TO SERVE RURAL COMMUNITIES By Christine Hurley Deriso

When Bryton Jones barrels through his brightly colored students you don’t have to move to Atlanta to be success- toys, exuberantly bouncing and flinging everything he ful, and they realize how fulfilling it is to help people who can get his pudgy hands on, his parents have no com- might otherwise fall through the cracks,” he says. plaints. He’s doing exactly what a toddler should be The dental school recently obtained a grant from doing— a miracle, in their estimation, considering his Georgia’s Health Resources and Services Administration to heart stopped beating shortly after birth. further serve rural citizens, partnering with public and pri- Bryton was born in 2012 with a condition called gas- vate dental clinics and the state’s Area Health Education troschisis, in which the intestines protrude from the Centers to treat underserved Georgians statewide. body. His health care team in rural Tifton, Georgia, Augusta University clinicians regularly staff clinics revived him, but only urgent transport to higher level care and volunteer health fairs in far-flung areas of the state, would keep him alive. providing onsite care and making referrals. New such affil- W Surgery at Augusta iations arise continuously, such University’s Children’s Hospital of as Augusta University Health’s Georgia made Bryton whole management of Roosevelt Warm again. “I wholeheartedly believe Springs Rehabilitation Hospital, he would not be here if we had some 200 miles west of Augusta. not come here,” says his mom. “The fear before our involvement Referrals and emergency was that the facility would have transports to Augusta to close down,” says David Mork, University’s clinical facilities are executive director and chief only one component of the uni- executive officer. versity’s service to rural Georgia. President Keel recently Augusta University’s Medical formed a task force to enhance College of Georgia, for instance, the university’s contributions to has a vibrant statewide presence, with a partnership Georgia’s rural hospitals. “We’re looking at issues that campus in Athens and satellite campuses based in have created problems for rural hospitals to find effective Albany, Rome and Savannah/Brunswick. solutions,” says Dr. William Kanto, special assistant to the “Our state is woefully low on physicians per capita, … vice president for strategic partnerships and affiliations the 10th-lowest ratio in the nation,” says Augusta and chairman of the task force. “We’re also looking at University President Brooks Keel. “We’ve increased our successful rural hospitals to see if we can use that infor- class size here in Augusta, and our satellite campuses and mation to help struggling ones.” partner campus in Athens are helping alleviate the short- Kanto envisions building on a hub-and-spoke model age.” Having students train in rural communities also in which rural hospitals partner with facilities such as increases the likelihood they will remain after graduation, Augusta University Health to provide complex care and Keel says, improving access for small-town Georgians. specialized services. He also anticipates increasing Augusta University’s medical school blankets the Augusta University’s already-extensive telemedicine state via postdoctoral training. “We’re working hard to services, using cutting-edge technology to provide build partnerships that create new residency sites,” Keel remote care and consultation. “As the state’s only public says. “Our successes throughout the state are largely due academic medical center, we should be engaged in solv- to special relationships with private-practice physicians, ing these problems,” he says. and I want to continue to cultivate those relationships.” Although the nuts and bolts of such machinations The university’s dental school, The Dental College of can seem somewhat dry and sterile, the end results are Georgia, offers multiple clinical training sites throughout anything but. Just ask Bryton’s dad. The favorite part of Georgia. For instance, Dr. Michael Frazier, an alumnus, the day for the man now raising a perfectly healthy son? welcomes approximately 12 dental students a year into his “Coming home from work and seeing how he lights up.” Rochelle, Georgia, practice for two-month rotations. Frazier shares not only his expertise, but his passion for treating Christine Hurley Deriso is a freelance writer living in North Augusta otherwise-underserved citizens. “This rotation shows the REVIEWING YOUR LIFE INSURANCE POLICY MAC McGREW [email protected]

ife insurance, a key part of financial planning, acts that provides more time for accumulation of the policy. L as a safety net in the event of your death by help- Similar to life expectancy, the ability of medical pro- ing to cover final expenses, replace your income, and pay fessionals to diagnose and project risk has increased. If off debts and/or estate taxes. Although it can be morose to you purchased insurance at a higher premium because of think about, it is important that your family is not caught a significant health risk and have not updated your policy off guard by any unexpected financial burden. in recent years, consider a medical checkup. Something It’s important to keep in mind that a life insurance pol- that may have concerned insurance companies in the icy is not a “one-size-fits-all” proposition. As life changes past may have little to no effect on premium price today. and events happen (i.e., marriage, divorce, work promo- Additionally, positive lifestyle changes, such as quitting tion, etc.) so should your policy. This requires a policy smoking or added exercise may help you save money by review every one to two years. Forgetting to update your reducing your premium. policy to mirror large life events can result in insufficient coverage when compensation may be needed the most. CHARITABLE GIVING Below are three items to consider upon your next review: In addition to covering any financial burden that you may leave behind, there may also be room in your policy for HOW MUCH DO YOU NEED? other uses as well if you no longer need the full extent of the Estimate your life insurance needs by calculating the total policy. In this case, you could consider converting the poli- cash needed minus your available assets. Your total cash cy into something of greater relevance to your family and needed would include: provide a lasting imprint in the community. Here are two strategies for giving the charitable gift of life insurance: • Annual income required, • Amount needed to pay off mortgage or anticipated rental • The simplest method is naming the charity as a benefici- expenses, ary. Once named, you can decide how you want to divvy • Amount needed to settle all debts (loans, credit cards, up benefits between your heirs and the charity. other), • An emergency fund (3-6 months of income), • If you and your family decide that it will not need your • Education costs per year (multiplied by number of years policy, you can relinquish control and transfer complete and number of children), ownership to the charity. This option also has significant • And probate and administrative fees, and funeral costs. tax incentives. Once transferred, the charity can choose how to best administer the funds— either immediately or Your available assets would include cash, savings or save for later use. If the policy is saved or invested, you checking account, existing life insurance, retirement may provide the charity with direct contributions of cash funds and liquid investments (e.g. publicly traded stock). It to pay the premium each year. would be prudent to consult with your financial advisor, legal and/or tax advisors, to help you with the amount As you can see, life insurance plays a major role in the needed for life insurance as some individuals may also be wealth management process and represents a flexible subject to estate taxes which can be significant. estate planning tool. So instead of ignoring your life insur- ance policy, take a few hours to review it every year (or LIFE EXPECTANCY two) and make necessary adjustments. It could have a pos- AND YOUR HEALTH itive impact on your finances while ensuring you and your Life expectancy has continued to rise during the last sev- family are receiving the best value for your policy. eral decades. As a result, insurance companies face less risk and consumers can have a plan with a lower premium Mac McGrew is a wealth advisor with The Harrison McGrew Group of Morgan Stanley in Atlanta. )URPWKDW ELJ MXLF\ FXWLWZLWKDEXWWHUNQLIH ĆWIRUD NLQJĆOHW PLJQRQ WKDW \RX FDQ RQO\ JHW DW WKH VZDQNLHVW  VWHDNKRXVHLQ %XFNKHDG WR WKDW GLVFRYHUHGE\WKH URDGVLGHVRXWKHUQIULHG FRPIRUW IRRG WKDWèG PDNH \RXU JUDQGPDTXHVWLRQ KHU FRRNLQJ VNLOOV $WODQWD (DWV KDV WKH GLVKRQ ZKDW FDQèW EH PLVVHG LQ DQG DURXQG $WODQWD Yeah,e , we’re gonna make youro mmouth water

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Sat 7:30 pmm | Sun 10:30 am YES, I HAVE VOTED

LARRY WALKER [email protected]

“Yes I have voted.” Or “No, but I’m going Bridge two or three times. I saw the movie Selma. Voting has to vote.” For the past 55 years, one of these has been easy for me. It was hard, very hard, for many. If you been my answer to the inevitable small town question I have don’t believe me, see the movie. It depicts the difficulty many gotten, “Have you voted?” had in being able to vote. It was hard in 2016. Going up the street and taking Yes, voting was hard for me in 2016. I was not and am about 10 minutes to vote was hard. But, I’ll get back to this not pleased with the choice of candidates. I considered skip- momentarily. I’ll try to explain. ping the primary voting. I knew it wouldn’t take long, just a The first time I voted was in 1960. I was 18 years old short walk from our office up the sidewalk on Ball Street and and, being a Georgian, I could vote. My recollec- by the side of the New Perry Hotel then across Main Street tion was that Georgia was one of the few states to the old Houston County Courthouse in downtown in the country that allowed 18 year olds to Perry. I considered skipping the primary voting and wait- vote. I was proud of my state for this. So, being ing to see who the candidates were in the general election. white and eighteen, I could vote. And I did. I kept thinking about 1960 and Nixon and Kennedy. The choices in the presidential con- I thought about the 16 times my name had been on test— the race I remember— were John F. the ballot. I thought about my son Larry III, and how Kennedy and Richard M. Nixon. Now, you hard we worked to get people out to vote for him. I know why I remember it. I thought it was a thought about Sam and Cullen and all the ones great honor and took making my choice I had voted for (and maybe one to two very seriously. Little could I have imag- against) over the years. And, I thought ined that the winner, John F. Kennedy, about the movie Selma. I walked would be assassinated in his first term, uptown and advance voted. and that Richard Nixon would later be Yes, I’m worried about our country. elected but would resign in his second Really worried. But I don’t subscribe to term while facing almost certain the oft heard lament, “our country is in impeachment for his involvement in the worst shape it has ever been.” the Watergate scandal. Remember what you learned about the Since 1960, I have voted in just Declaration of Independence and the about every election in which I was Revolutionary War and how precariously things allowed to vote: primaries, general, city, hung in the balance? What about the Civil War? county, bond issues, etc. I think one of the require- And the Great Depression? Then there was World Wat I and ments of good citizenship is that you vote. World War II. I could give other examples. In 1972, I ran for the State Legislature. It was the seat Things have been bad, before— really bad. And my view that had been held by Sam Nunn. Sam Nunn ran for the is that things are not good now. But I hope and pray that we United States Senate and Cullen Talton ran for sheriff of will survive, that our culture and ideals will survive and that Houston County. I was elected and my name would be on continued democratic government and freedom will survive. the ballot 15 more times. Sam Nunn was elected and had a I have concluded that “not voting” is not the answer. So, stellar career as an exemplary United States senator. I regret when you see me and ask, “Have you voted?” my answer will that he did not run for president. Cullen Talton was elected be either, “No, but I’m going to vote”, or “Yes, I have voted.” and is still our sheriff. He plans to run again and I hope he I think this is better than the alternative. I hope you did, too. will. He has been outstanding. And that you will continue to vote in the future. Voting is a privilege and is necessary if we are to preserve the republic. I’ve been through Selma, Alabama, three times Larry Walker is a practicing attorney in Perry. He served 32 years and the last time I went I drove over the Edmund Pettus in the Georgia General Assembly and serves on the University System Board of Regents.

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