COBB COUNTY A BUSTLING

MARCH/APRIL 2017

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AN INSIDE VIEW INTO ’S NEWS, POLITICS & CULTURE

THE 2017 MOST INFLUENTIAL

GEORGIA LOTTERY CORP. CEO ISSUE DEBBIE ALFORD

COLUMNS BY KADE CULLEFER KAREN BREMER MAC McGREW CINDY MORLEY GARY REESE DANA RICKMAN LARRY WALKER The hallmark of the GWCCA Campus is CONNEE CTIVITY DEPARTMENTS Publisher’s Message 4 Floating Boats 6

FEATURES James’ 2017 Most Influential 8

JAMES Saluting the James 2016 “Influentials” 18 P.O. BOX 724787 , GEORGIA 31139 24 678 • 460 • 5410 Georgian of the Year, Debbie Alford Building A Proposed Contiguous Exhibition Facilityc Development on the Rise in Cobb County 26 PUBLISHED BY by Cindy Morley INTERNET NEWS AGENCY LLC 2017 Legislators of the Year 29 Building B

CHAIRMAN MATTHEW TOWERY COLUMNS CEO & PUBLISHER PHIL KENT Future Conventtion Hotel [email protected] Language Matters: Building C How We Talk About Georgia Schools 21 CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER LOUIE HUNTER by Dr. Dana Rickman ASSOCIATE EDITOR GARY REESE

ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Georgia’s Legal Environment on a PATTI PEACH [email protected] Consistent Downward Trend 23 by Kade Cullefer The connections between Georggia World Congress Center venues, the hotel MARKETING DIRECTOR MELANIE DOBBINS district, and the world’world s busiest aairporirport are key differentiaferentiatorsators in Atlanta’Atlanta’s ability to [email protected] Georgia Restaurants Deliver compete for in-demand conventions and tradeshows. CIRCULATION PATRICK HICKEY [email protected] Significant Economic Impact 31 by Karen Bremer CONTRIBUTING WRITERS A fixed gateway between the exhibit halls in Buildings B & C would solidify KADE CULLEFER 33 KAREN BREMER Spring Forward Financially Atlanta’s place as the world’s premier convention destination. by Mac McGrew MAC McGREW CINDY MORLEY GARY REESE This gateway could generate an estimated $632 million in economic impacct. DANA RICKMAN 6th Congressional Race: LARRY WALKER Litmus for Georgia’s Political Future 35 by Gary Reese

VISIT INSIDERADVANTAGE.COM 37 SUBSCRIBE TO OUR DAILY INTERNET NEWS SERVICE Georgia’s Most Influential Citizen, Ever? Convention, Sports $17.50/MONTH & RECEIVE JAMES FOR FREE by Larry Walker CHECK OUT OUR SISTER PUBLICATION: and Entertainment SOUTHERNPOLITICALREPORT.COM Destination in the WWoorld DESIGN & LAYOUT BURTCH HUNTER DESIGN

gwccaa.org Sttatewide Presence, Sttatewide Solutions. PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE With offices around the state of Georgia, Hall Booth Smith, Government Affffairs is a well- connected team of lawyers and professional lobbyists who understand your ffeederal, state IT’S INFLUENTIAL LISTINGS TIME, AGAIN. andd local legislative and reggulatory objectives

WE’VE DONE IT AGAIN. This year our staff has added this year’s recipients: state Rep. Earl Ehrhart, state even more influential individuals in their fields of Rep. and state Sen. John Kennedy. endeavor for our “Most Influential” edition. As you go Overall, this of accomplished men and AATTHHHENSHENNSS over our listings, perhaps you’ll discover the addition women who are the guiding lights of our state’s busi- of some of these first-timers who have “risen through ness, political, legal and media circles is a good snap- AATTTLLAANNTTTAA the ranks” to influence public policy and impact our shot in time. Their ideas and actions impact all quality of life. And, of course, you’ll see a lot of familiar Georgians. That’s why we inform you about them. names and faces that have been around— some for Also, a heads-up: The next James is the “Political quite awhile. and Law” issue and we’re continuing a popular fea- COLCCOLUUMMBBUUS Yes, our list is incomplete. We fear that we have ture that debuted last year. Check the website of our left out some important people in various parts of the parent company www.insideradvantage.com for a fun Peach State who wield significant overt or covert influ- “Top 20” exercise. Click on the “Vote HERE” icon to TIFTTOONN ence that we don’t know about. However, just as has select your favorite metro Atlanta restaurants that are ALBALBAAALBANLBALBANANYNYY been the case in years past, readers will remind us of hot spots for politicos and political conversations. BBRRUNSNSSWICKSWICKCKK omissions and submit their names for consideration for We’d also like you to share your favorite memories or next year’s James. stories from your favorite spots around Georgia’s capi- As for our “Georgian of the Year,” we believe tal city. The Top 20 vote-getters will be featured in our Georgia Lottery Corp. CEO Debbie Alford is an espe- next magazine. And we are especially excited to be Offfices also located in: Charleston, SC, Charlotte, NC, cially appropriate choice. Former Gov. ’s partnering with Taste of Atlanta, the city’s premiere Naashville & Memphis, TN and N. N P allm Beach, Beach F L . vision of a lottery to fund the expansion of educational food and drink festival that attracts foodies from opportunities for all Georgians is a legacy that will last across the Southeast, as well as with the Georgia generations. With Mrs. Alford’s leadership since 2010, Restaurant Association, the state’s premiere advocate Halll Booth Smith, PP..C. is a fuull service law firm coupled with her team’s hard work, this legacy is for the restaurant industry. with over 20 years of experience. At HBS, we being effectively fostered. You can gain insights on Of course, don’t forget to read our “regular” attribute our growth and success to the hard one of the nation’s best-run lotteries with our exclusive columnists ranging from Larry Walker to Dr. Dana question-and-answer interview with the CEO. Rickman. Finally, we have a special report on what’s work and allegiance of fulfilling our promise: Longtime readers know that James annually salutes happening in the bustling Cumberland/SunTrust “Serving to Achieve EExxcellence” in all we do. state “Legislators of the Year” for their exceptional pub- Stadium area of Cobb County where the Atlanta lic service. In recent years we have honored such titans Braves have a new home. Check out staff writer Cindy as House Speaker , Senate President Pro Morley’s article on page 26. Tem David Shafer, Senate Majority Leader , former House Majority leader Larry O’Neal, House Speaker Pro Tem Jan Jones and House Minority Caucus Chair . We commend to readers PHIL KENT CEO & PUBLISHER FLOATING BOATS

WHO’S RISING AND SINKING IN GEORGIA BUSINESS AND POLITICS

The Peach State’s newest team, Major League Soccer fran- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta plans for a new hospi- chise Atlanta United FC, kicked off its season on March 5 tal in Brookhaven, and it’s going to be a big one. The $1 bil- at ’s Bobby Dodd Stadium. The team will play lion facility will replace the current Egleston Hospital at there until its permanent home, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Emory, and will form the centerpiece of the new North is ready later in the summer. The team’s raucous season Druid Hills medical area that will also feature the Atlanta opener was sold out and it was obvious that metro ’ training facilities. A new world-class hospital has has caught soccer fever. For the team and owner Arthur the state’s heathcare community… RISING Blank, their ships are… RISING Atlanta Mayor adamantly denies any Atlanta’s Pinewood Studios has become a big name in involvement in the bribery case at city hall where two film-making in recent years, but it never has hosted any- contractors have already pleaded guilty to paying millions thing quite this big. An unnamed movie (Marvel’s of dollars in exchange for government contracts. Reed Avengers: Infinity Wars) that has been filming at the stu- produced 1.4 million paper pages of public records pertain- dio is the world’s most expensive production EVER, with a ing to the case for investigators to pore over in a show of budget reaching a staggering $1 billion. That’s well over good faith. But after that the city’s procurement officer twice as much as the next most expensive film, James was hastily fired, and it appears the federal probe is Cameron’s Avatar in 2009. Pinewood Atlanta co-owner, widening. This ugly scandal has the mayor’s legacy and (and Chick-fil-A CEO) Dan Cathy boasted the news at a the reputation of city hall… SINKING March event, and his ship along with Pinewood’s and the state they both call home is… RISING New Atlanta Police Chief Erika Shields declared at her first press conference that she is committed “to clean up The much-ballyhooed state Senate Bill B 79 authored by this violent crime.” She is referring to the fact that in 2016 Sen. , R-Alpharetta, and its House compan- Atlanta’s murder rate soared to be the deadliest in a decade. ion bill by Rep. Ron Stephens, R-Savannah, which would The city recorded 111 murders— and that number is a 39 have allowed for a pair of “destination resort” casinos to be percent increase from when Mayor Kasim Reed took office built in Georgia, died early March in the General Assembly. in 2009. In fact, Atlanta’s homicide rate has jumped 17 per- The legislation— a constitutional amendment that has to cent since 2015. “We’re developing new strategies to deal be coupled with an enabling bill— will undoubtedly be with the rise in murders, carjackings… crimes that shake the back in 2018, but the first real attempt at legalizing casinos public’s confidence,” the mayor says. Shields so far has been in Georgia… SANK short on details, so the city’s crime fight is… Drifting

According to INRIX Inc., a transportation analytics firm, Computer hacking has been a hot topic in the national Atlanta ranks 4th in the U.S. and 8th in the entire world in media, but now it is hitting close to home here in Georgia. the list of “most congested urban areas.” Traffic costs the city The FBI is investigating a hack at the Center for Election an estimated $3.1 billion annually in direct and indirect costs. Systems at Kennesaw State University, which aids the Transportation is always a big issue under the Gold Dome and Secretary of State’s office with elections across the state. legislators have been working toward solutions, but when the Sources say the hackers may have made off with millions capital city is found to be one of the top ten worst cities in the of voter records. More trouble for Georgia SoS Brian world for traffic congestion, its ship is badly… Drifting Kemp— this troubling case has his and every voter who may have been compromised… Drifting Georgians rejoiced recently when a special master in a case that will go to the U.S. Supreme Court recommended that was among the first to join the “Trump no water consumption cap be put on Atlanta’s water use train,” and that loyalty is paying off now that it has rolled from Lake Lanier and the river basin downstream, as Florida into the White House. The junior Georgia senator and fel- had asked for. The nation’s high court could still make a dif- low Republican Sen. of Arkansas had a closed ferent ruling, but this recommendation (a cap would devas- door meeting with the President to discuss their RAISE tate Georgia’s economy) so far has Georgia’s ship… RISING Act, an immigration reform bill which seeks to return legal immigration to historical levels. The bill has a way to go before it becomes law, but Perdue securing private time to discuss it with the commander-in-chief shows that his ship is… RISING magazine’s 2016 “Influential Georgian of the effort by closing some schools and transform- SANDRA DEAL Year” due to his wide-ranging business, civic ing others into charter schools— all of which First Lady of Georgia and charitable service, and he currently serves have garnered opposition from the Georgia Georgia’s popular and charming on the University System’s Board of Regents. Association of Educators teachers’ union. first lady continues to cut a large STEVEN R. BRIGGS MICHAEL CASSIDY swath all across the Peach State, most notably in her efforts to President, Berry College President/CEO, Georgia Research Alliance improve childhood literacy. Her continued JAMES’2017 President of Berry for the past ten Cassidy & Co. has been assisting presence in the “Read Across Georgia” pro- years, Briggs has overseen growth in universities over the years expand gram has aided an entire generation of both academics and athletics at the their research, which in turn trans- Georgia’s youth. Rome college. Under his leadership lates into more companies coming MOST the school has opened or renovated over a to Georgia that create additional private sec- BEN EASTERLIN dozen buildings, added six new varsity sports, tor jobs. Its venture fund has been especially Chairman, Judicial Qualifications Commission and constructed one of the nation’s largest ten- successful in helping to finance promising The retired King & Spaulding attor- nis centers. Fortunes continue to trend up on firms, and its work has expanded over the ney and former State Bar president the nation’s largest campus. past couple of years. presides over a watchdog agency MARK BUTLER DAN CATHY that has conducted probes in recent years that have resulted in the dismissals or This is our popular annual comprehensive collection of our elected Commissioner of Labor Chairman/CEO, Chick-fil-A resignations of dozens of judges who abused INFLUENTIAL Georgia’s 9th Labor Commissioner, Known for spending more time out officials as well as major players from across the state. their public offices. The agency has had a and the first Republican to hold the among his chain’s 2,000 stores rocky cruise over the past couple of years, but position, has led the state’s than in the office, Cathy heads up Easterlin and fellow panelists are committed Department of Labor since 2011. He’s the second generation of a leg- to smoother sailing. DAVID ABNEY KERRY ARMSTRONG helped Georgia’s job seekers with new pro- endary Georgia family that runs one of the grams such as GeorgiaBEST, which certifies nation’s most prominent and most loved fast RANDY EVANS CEO, United Parcel Service Chairman, Atlanta Regional Commission Founder, Spanx high school students as “work ready,” and food restaurants. Attorney, Dentons Working his way up from a package Now in his second stint as chair- The world’s youngest self-made Customized Recruitment, which streamlines Partner at the world’s largest law loader to CEO of one of the world’s man of the ARC, Armstrong is also female billionaire built Atlanta- CHRIS CLARK the recruiting and hiring process for employers. firm is just one of many hats worn largest delivery companies is a feat chairman of the North Fulton based undergarment giant Spanx President/CEO, GA Chamber of Commerce by this Atlanta lawyer. A close con- worthy of recognition on its own. Community Improvement District, nearly single-handedly. Named one CASEY CAGLE As head of the state’s largest busi- fidante of former U.S. House Speaker Under Abney’s leadership the UPS now has a serves as director of the Council for Quality of the world’s 100 most influential people Lieutenant Governor ness organization, Clark works Newt Gingrich, Evans once chaired the ground fleet of nearly 100,000 trucks operat- Growth, and is a director for the Greater North by Time magazine in 2012, Blakely has also Georgia’s first Republican lieu- alongside prominent business lead- Republican National Lawyers Association and ing in over 220 countries. Fulton Chamber of Commerce. The ARC over- gained praise for her philanthropic efforts tenant governor has a laundry list ers to, in his words, “continue to is Georgia’s GOP National Committeeman. sees planning and coordination between the which include the Sara Blakely Foundation of accomplishments he’s compiled put forward proposals they believe will keep Evans is close to the new president as well as DEAN ALFORD 10 counties that make up Metro Atlanta. and the “Giving Pledge.” She became the first throughout his more than 20 years Georgia at the top of the nation’s ‘Best for with White House Chief of Staff Reince Businessman, Board of Regents member female billionaire to pledge to donate half of in public service, and he is currently focusing Business’ lists for years to come.” Priebus, and he also co-chairs the state’s ED BASTIAN her wealth to charity. This proud Georgia Tech booster, on education reforms. The Gainesville native, Judicial Nominating Committee which recom- civic leader, businessman, philan- CEO, Delta Air Lines ROOSEVELT COUNCIL ARTHUR BLANK so far, is considered the favorite for the 2018 mends judgeship applicants to the governor. thropist and Board of Regents mem- Named CEO last May, Delta veter- GOP gubernatorial nomination. General , Hartsfield-Jackson ber continues to speak out on cut- an Bastian has overseen a produc- Owner, Atlanta Falcons International Airport DIETMAR EXLER ting-edge education issues. The CEO of Allied tive year at the helm of the one of While his Falcons came up short in STEPHEN CANNON Following the messy forced resig- President & CEO, Mercedes-Benz N. America Energy Services and a one-time state lawmak- the world’s premier airlines. Even the Super Bowl, Blank has secured CEO, AMB Group nation of his predecessor by The Austrian born Exler became er, Alford has also served on the state Board of as fuel prices continue to increase, Delta his place as one of the city’s most It was just two years ago when the Atlanta’s mayor, Hartsfield-Jackson President and CEO of Atlanta’s Education and chaired the state Technical posted a profit of nearly $4.5 billion over the popular figures by working to con- former CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA welcomed the elevation of Council newest automobile maker in College System. (He’s also married to Georgia past fiscal year. struct the world class Mercedes-Benz Stadium assumed control of the Arthur Blank from his former position as CFO. Already January of 2016. In his new role as Lottery Corp. CEO Debbie D. Alford.) and by bringing Major League Soccer to Group— putting him in charge of overseeing a record-breaking $6 billion capital head of Mercedes-Benz North America he is Atlanta. Also renowned for his charity work, company business operations that include the improvement program that will bring the responsible for nearly 3,000 North American SPIRO AMBURN Former Governor, Attorney the Arthur Blank Family Foundation is one of Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United FC, Mercedes world’s busiest airport into the future, the employees, 400 dealerships, plus the distribu- Chief of Staff, Georgia Speaker of the House the biggest drivers of the revitalization of the Georgia’s last Democrat governor Benz Stadium, and more. So far he’s getting new GM is a key figure at the head of one of tion, marketing, and customer service of the neighborhoods around downtown. The energetic Amburn, often seen (1999-2003), he is one of Georgia’s high marks for a job well performed. the city’s crown jewels. luxury automobiles. around the Gold Dome and at many most prominent attorneys head- MIKE BOWERS a dinner and reception, enjoys a quartered at his Barnes Law Group CHRIS CARR TOM FANNING Lobbyist/Lawyer very strong and trusted relation- in Marietta. Barnes— always the great story- Georgia Attorney General Governor Chairman/President/CEO, Southern Company ship with House Speaker David Ralston. Like teller and passionate advocate— still dabbles The prominent Balch & Bingham Appointed to the position in Under the leadership of the second- Fanning has piloted the South’s any chief of staff, he is the watchful gate- in Democratic Party politics, gives speeches, lawyer, a former state attorney gen- November, the former chief of staff term governor— always one of the largest utility company since 2010 keeper— in this case, for those interested in offers advice to candidates and potential can- eral especially known as a corruption for U.S. Sen. has top “influential Georgians”— the through good times and bad. During legislation and how it could proceed, be didates and doles out campaign contributions fighter, carries heavy political and already compiled an impressive list Peach State continues to be named that span the company has commit- amended, or die in the state House. to those individuals and organizations he legal clout. He and investigator Richard Hyde of supporters and donors. After securing a $40 by the prestigious Site Selection magazine as ted itself to an impressive mix of energy deems worthy. are perhaps best remembered in recent years for million victory for Georgians from rogue pay- the No. 1 state in the nation in which to do sources that meet the demands of an expand- DAN AMOS investigating and highlighting public corruption day lenders in one of his first acts as AG, business. Through the public-private efforts ing population as well as pressure from those Chairman/CEO, AFLAC GARY BLACK in DeKalb County. Carr’s position seems secure as he looks of the governor and his economic develop- concerned about the environment. AFLAC is cited continually by Commissioner, Georgia Dept. of Agriculture PAUL BOWERS toward a (re)election bid in 2018. ment team, thousands of jobs continue to be Fortune as one of the “100 Best Many observers cite the commis- created and countless millions of dollars in LARRY GELLERSTEDT President and CEO, Georgia Power Co. Companies to Work For” in the sioner as an impressive steward MERIA CARSTARPHEN communities continue to be invested. Despite President/CEO Cousins Properties country— and all due to his contin- not only of Georgia’s $74 billion Before becoming chairman and Superintendent, voter disapproval last Nov. 8 of his Not just a power player in the ued stewardship of the Columbus-based corpo- agribusiness industry but for his CEO of the Georgia Power Co. in The superintendent is in her third Opportunity School District amendment, Deal Southeast’s real estate scene, rate insurance giant famous for its quacking work overseeing everything from food safety 2010, Bowers previously worked as year of trying to turn around a sys- continues to work with legislators to turn Gellerstedt is also well known for his “Duck” commercials. Philanthropist Amos and animal health to licensing pest control chief financial officer of the parent tem which the state says has at around low-performing schools or turn them civic accomplishments, including serves on various boards and is a former chair of companies. A farmer who raises cattle, Black Southern Company. Among his many compa- least two dozen “low-performing” into charters. The GOP governor has also presiding over the merger between Egleston the Foundation. has also effectively retooled the depart- ny endeavors is facilitating completion of schools. It is a system still recovering from a reshaped the state’s judiciary away from dom- and Scottish Rite children’s hospitals to form ment’s “Georgia Grown” program— a promo- Georgia’s largest construction project: the student test cheating scandal which led to inance by liberal judges with a series of quali- Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. tional effort of locally-grown products. building of two nuclear power units at Plant some administrators and teachers going to ty appointments to the Court of Appeals, Vogtle near Waynesboro. Bowers was James jail. Carstarphen, though, continues a reform Supreme Court and many lower courts. GEORGIA SENATE that aims to improve transportation and other Gold Dome. As the 1st Vice President of the tireless booster of Georgia’s capital city (he was GEORGIA PUBLIC aspects of the Perimeter’s infrastructure by National Council of County Association Sr. Vice President, Intercontinental Exchange its mayor from 1970 to 1974) he remains deeply LEADERSHIP SERVICE COMMISSION using money from property taxes. He also Executives, he is in line to become the head of One half of James’ 2015 “Most involved in Atlanta philanthropic efforts. serves on the Board of Directors for such groups that prestigious national organization. Influential Georgians,” Loeffler con- RICH McKAY President as the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce tinues to work with her husband District 1 and the Atlanta Commercial Board of Realtors. TAD LEITHEAD President/CEO, Atlanta Falcons Jeff Sprecher in expanding the Albany Casey Cagle Chestnut Mountain Chairman, Cumberland Community One of the NFL’s most powerful H. Doug Everett DOUGLAS HOOKER Intercontinental Exchange company. She also President Pro Tempore Improvement District co-owns Atlanta’s WNBA team, the Dream, executives, McKay was key in the District 2 Executive Director, Atlanta Regional David Shafer Duluth With a background in commercial and is periodically rumored to have an inter- deal to construct Mercedes-Benz Bogart Commission real estate, Leithead oversees the est in running for high elected office. Stadium and is the Chairman of the Majority Leader Voted in as head of the ARC in 2011, Cumberland CID as it pushes for- influential NFL Competition Committee. District 3 Bill Cowsert Athens Hooker oversees the regional plan- ward on a new era of growth, GRIFF LYNCH Arthur Blank’s right hand man was also Atlanta ning agency responsible for the 10- anchored by the Braves’ Suntrust Park. A for- Executive Director, Georgia Ports Authority responsible for the hiring of Falcons Majority Caucus Chair District 4 county, 70-city Atlanta region, one mer Chairman of the Atlanta Regional After taking over as Executive Dan Quinn, who took the team to the Super , Jr. Brunswick of the nation’s fastest growing. The Georgia Commission, his expertise in connecting gov- Director in July, Lynch immediately Bowl in only his second season. Lauren “Bubba” Tech and Emory grad also serves on the board ernment and real estate has helped make the Majority Whip found himself in the middle of one RUSSELL McMURRY McDonald, Jr. Clarkesville of another half dozen local organizations, Cumberland area one of the fastest growing of the most ambitious periods of Dahlonega District 5 including the Council for Quality Growth and parts of the city. growth in Georgia ports history. Between the Commissioner, Georgia Department of Democratic Leader the Georgia Tech (President’s) Advisory Board. deepening of the Savannah harbor and con- Transportation Stan Wise Marietta CRAIG LESSER Starting his career with the GDOT Steve Henson Tucker RALPH HUDGENS structing new roads and railroads that will Managing Partner, The Pendleton Group increase capacity, under the new Director’s all the way back in 1990, McMurry Democratic Caucus Chair State Insurance Commissioner The former commissioner of the watch look for the $85 billion in annual port worked his way up to the top of the LAMAR NORTON Atlanta A one-time GOP state senator and Georgia Department of Economic revenue to soar in coming years. organization, being named com- Executive Director, GA Municipal Association representative, Hudgens is now Development has served in many missioner in 2015. The Hart County native Democratic Whip Director of the GMA since 2012 but known as a consumer advocate as high profile positions in both the BERNIE MARCUS oversees more than 4,100 employees who with a much longer history in the Vincent Fort Atlanta well as one of the chief opponents public and private sectors before becoming a Co-Founder, Home Depot work to build, maintain, and upgrade the field of governmental relations, to Obamacare in Georgia. If you have managing partner at government affairs firm While the Home Depot co-founder is nation’s 10th largest road system. Norton makes sure that his mem- questions about filing a claim, experiencing The Pendleton Group. Lesser is also currently a major philanthropist (the $250 mil- CEASAR MITCHELL ber-cities have the tools they need to deal JEFF HAIDET difficulty reaching your insurance company chairman of the board of Georgia Public lion he donated to build the Georgia with local and state governments. or other issues, he and his staff established a Broadcasting and recently finished a stint as President, Atlanta City Council U.S. Chairman, Dentons Aquarium is a great testimonial to helpful Consumer Helpline at 404-656-2070. chair of the Atlanta Regional Commission’s that reputation), he made headlines in 2016 by Mitchell has served as City Council KEITH PARKER He is the U.S. Chairman of the Competitiveness Initiative. president since 2010, and helped CEO & GM, MARTA JOHNNY ISAKSON being one of Georgia’s biggest contributors to largest law firm in the world. the presidential campaign. His Mayor Kasim Reed foster pension The nation’s 9th largest transit sys- U.S. Senator, Georgia BRIAN LIVESAY Perhaps little more needs to be said. continued involvement in Autism Speaks, the reform, but he now has his sights tem has undergone quite the resur- Managing Partner, Atlanta Metro Studios His Dentons position makes the The popular Isakson cruised to re- Salvation Army and many other charities natu- set on winning the 2017 Atlanta mayoral race. gence since Parker took the reins in affable, well-connected Atlantan one of the election for a third term in This Sandy Springs businessman rally earned him recognition in The Chronicle of The Morehouse and UGA-trained lawyer is 2012, and the city has taken notice. nation’s most influential lawyers. He also November and is the only senator is a founder and managing partner Philanthropy list of top charitable donors. naturally calling for reform and transparency With additional funding on the way and more serves as chief legal counsel to several of the who chairs two committees— the of Atlanta Metro Studios in Union in light of the current city hall bribery scan- counties considering buying into the system, firm’s highest profile clients. Ethics and Veterans’ Affairs panels. Never City, which has the two largest dal. And he is already running in a crowded MARTA’s star has never shined brighter. DAVID HANNA afraid to reach across the aisle but likewise sound stages in North America and is home The Coalition field of candidates. Parker’s success hasn’t gone unnoticed, he was never compromising his core conservative to large-scale productions. Livesay has CEO, Atlanticus Holdings Corporation At age 89, the unofficial “mayor” of HALA MODDELMOG named to the National Infrastructure Advisory principles, the Cobb County Republican gives worked tirelessly to advance educational the Buckhead business section of Council by President Obama last year. Beyond his work as CEO and co- Georgia a high-profile voice in Washington D.C. opportunities in Georgia to support the the city of Atlanta shows no signs of CEO, Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce founder of Atlanticus Holdings growing job market that is fundamental to Three years ago this successful busi- STEFAN PASSANTINO slowing down. He founded the Corporation, an international con- the growth of the film and television indus- Buckhead Coalition and has remained at its nesswoman became the first female Deputy White House Counsel Georgia Secretary of State sumer credit firm, Hanna is also try locally. helm for the better part of three decades. A to be president and CEO of this President Donald Trump in January deeply involved in local philanthropy. Serving Kemp continues to eye higher office important business & political play- named this Atlanta-based Dentons on the boards of Piedmont Healthcare, the in 2018 even after the damaging GEORGIA HOUSE GEORGIA STATEWIDE er in Georgia’s capital city. Previously, she attorney (who headed its political Lumen Institute, Catholic Charities of Atlanta, 2015 data leak that still lingers in the headed the Susan G. Komen for the Cure foun- law practice) to the position of and more, his influence reaches far beyond minds of many Georgian voters. He LEADERSHIP ELECTED OFFICIALS dation and Church’s Chicken. The chamber’s deputy assistant to the president and deputy the business world. did score points with many Republicans, reputation had become tarnished in the latter counsel. At the White House, the Georgian is FRANK HANNA though, by pushing to implement the success- Speaker of the House Governor years of her predecessor, but that is ancient focusing on compliance and ethics matters. ful 2016 “SEC presidential primary” that gave history as Moddelmog continues to oversee an Passantino also served as campaign counsel CEO, Hanna Capital Blue Ridge Gainesville Georgia and other Southern states increased David Ralston Nathan Deal effective marketing campaign which is attract- for U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson as well as counsel The brother of David listed above, clout in the 2016 presidential primaries. Speaker Pro Tempore Lt. Governor ing more businesses and people to Atlanta. to the state GOP. Frank Hanna is heavily involved in the Roman Catholic Church in MUHTAR KENT Jan Jones Milton Casey Cagle Chestnut Mountain ALLISON MORAN BILLY PAYNE addition to his role as CEO of pri- Chairman/CEO, The Coca-Cola Company Majority Leader Secretary of State CEO, RaceTrac Chairman, Augusta National Golf Club vate equity and venture capital investing firm Kent will step down from his role as Jon Burns Newington Brian Kemp Athens Moran took over as CEO for her For almost a decade Payne has revo- Hanna Capital. He has been key in the found- CEO of Atlanta’s best known com- father, Carl Bolch, in 2012. With over Majority Whip Attorney General lutionized things around the once- ing of eight different Catholic educational pany later this year but will remain 650 stores across the Southeast, staid club, which hosts the famed institutions and served as a co-chair of a as chairman to help facilitate the Christian Coomer Cartersville Chris Carr Atlanta RaceTrac is Georgia’s third largest pri- Masters Tournament every April. Presidential Commission on Education under transition. Under his watch Coca-Cola has vate company and has been consistently named Majority Caucus Chair Labor Commissioner The Atlanta businessman and attorney, a key President George W. Bush. secured its position as the world’s premier as one of the top places to work in the country. figure in bringing the Olympics to Atlanta in Dublin Mark Butler Carrollton JOHN HEAGY III beverage company, expanding its reach into 1996, allowed the admission of women and nearly every corner of the earth. PAUL MORRIS Chairman, Perimeter CID Minority Leader State School Superintendant looked beyond the club’s fabled greens to pre- CEO, Atlanta Beltline side over a massive land buy of adjoining neigh- ROSS KING Atlanta Richard Woods Tifton A Senior Managing Director at Hines, With more than 30 years of trans- borhoods. This resulted in expanded free park- an international real estate firm, Executive Director, Association County Minority Whip Agriculture Commissioner portation and urban development ing, easier pedestrian and vehicle access, beauti- Heagy leads the DeKalb Perimeter Commissioners of Georgia Columbus Gary Black Commerce experience, Morris was the perfect ful landscaping and more entertainment ven- Community Improvement District Working for the ACCG since 1987, candidate to lead the development ues. And working with the U.S. Golf Association King is well versed in public policy Minority Caucus Chair Insurance Commissioner of the 22-mile loop of pedestrian and bike and how best to advocate for Stacey Evans Smyrna Ralph Hudgens Winterville trails that has become an anchor for the city’s Georgia’s county officials under the hottest real estate. GEORGIA CONGRESSIONAL urban development and revitalization can be TOM PRICE VIC REYNOLDS administration. Usually working behind the GEORGIA MAYORS DELEGATION seen in ’s Centennial Place. U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services District Attorney, Cobb Judicial Circuit scenes, this key Deal loyalist is especially adept TOP CITIES in putting out fires and ensuring that the exec- TYLER PERRY The former orthopedic surgeon This hard-charging prosecutor has started his political career in the established a no-nonsense court- utive branch’s “trains run on time.” Actor, Director, Playwright, Producer Atlanta Kasim Reed SENATORS state Senate, followed by a suc- room reputation. He has performed EARL ROGERS Perry seems to do it all. He and his cessful 12-year stint in Congress yeoman work with state legislators Augusta Hardie Davis Senior Senator Junior Senator President/CEO, Georgia Hospital Association foundation donate millions of dol- where he rose to the lofty position of to enact laws giving prosecutors stronger Columbus Andrew Ginther Johnny Isakson David Perdue lars to organizations ranging from Chairman of the Budget Committee. After powers to combat the growing criminal gang The longtime lobbyist now heads Brookhaven John Ernst Marietta Sea Island Feeding America to the NAACP to considering a bid for Governor he emerged menace. Reynolds delivers a forceful Paul up the GHA, one of the state’s most help alleviate homelessness, foster civil rights as the top candidate for Secretary of Health Revere-like warning that criminal gang vio- powerful associations representing Athens Nancy Denson and aid survivors of natural disasters. In 2011 179 hospitals statewide. Rogers US HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and Human Services, and as a key member of lence is now “a statewide crisis.” He also creat- Sandy Springs Rusty Paul Forbes called him “the highest paid man in President Trump’s cabinet now oversees ed an effective “cold case” unit of retired, vol- relies on his decades of experience to advocate D-1 Pooler entertainment,” and he presides over a nearly 80,000 employees with an annual unteer law enforcement experts. for his members on a wide variety of health- Alpharetta David Belle Isle D-2 Albany Georgia-based film development/production budget of over $1 trillion. care issues at the Capitol. Macon Robert Reichert company that boasts two massive studio lots. ED RICHARDSON D-3 Drew Ferguson West Point A big supporter of (and fundraiser for) former KASIM REED Managing Partner, Atlanta Metro Studios CANDICE SAUNDERS Johns Creek Mike Bodker D-4 Lithonia President , Perry’s political clout Mayor, City of Atlanta Also the owner of Atlanta produc- President/CEO, WellStar Albany Kathy Sheehan isn’t something to be overlooked. D-5 Atlanta Never one to shy away from con- tion company R&R Productions Beginning her career with WellStar Smyrna Max Bacon as President of Kennestone Hospital D-6 vacant FRANK POE frontation, since 2010 the brash Worldwide, Richardson is currently Reed led the city into a period of producing a feature film adaptation in 2007, Saunders rose to President Savannah Eddie DeLoach Executive Director, GA World Congress Center D-7 Lawrenceville tremendous economic growth. He of Georgia’s own Flannery O’Connor’s “A Good and CEO of the entire company in D-8 Austin Scott Tifton The man at the helm of the Georgia fostered needed pension reform and became Man is Hard to Find.” Atlanta Metro Studios is 2015. The former chair of the Georgia Hospital World Congress Center Authority Association has received national recognition ing in the new world-class stadium that is Cobb D-9 Doug Collins Gainesville an ally of Governor Deal and the state’s busi- at the heart of Union City’s revitalization (on presides over a huge Atlanta cam- ness community— but he is term-limited the site of the former Shannon Mall.) In part- for the work she has done in growing the County’s Suntrust Park later this spring. D-10 Monroe pus. It is an economic engine that sprawling Georgia-based health system. and will be replaced in the 2017 mayoral elec- nership with Clayton State University and the ALANA SHEPHERD D-11 Cassville sustains over 15,000 jobs, hosts 550 events tion. His legacy is currently taking a due Georgia Film Academy, Atlanta Metro Studios’ and welcomes 2.3 million visitors annually. Co-Founder, Shepherd Spinal Center D-12 Rick Allen Augusta to an ongoing city hall bribery/contract scan- scholarship program is fast tracking young Progress moves forward under Poe, who was dal, and because the city’s murder rate has Georgians to local film careers. President, Among the first of its type when it D-13 David Scott Atlanta honored by the International Association of risen in recent years. The longtime baseball executive was developed in the 1970s, the cen- D-14 Ranger Venue Managers with a 2016 lifetime CHRIS RILEY oversaw the Braves’ epic run of suc- ter has grown into one of the achievement award. New projects include a RALPH REED Chief of Staff, Georgia Governor cess on the field in the 1990s and nation’s biggest rehabilitation hospi- revitalized Atlanta Centennial Park that will Faith & Freedom Coalition Chairman The governor’s longtime right-hand 2000s, and after transitioning to an tals— treating over 7,000 patients annually. become a pedestrian model. and the Professional Golf Association, he fos- The one-time Christian Coalition aide is effective in helping to craft administrative role has become the public face Alana Shepherd’s impact has been felt through- tered a national junior competition called Drive, MICHAEL POLK head, former Georgia GOP chairman public policies and messaging, as of one of America’s premier franchises. out the city, advocating for increased accessibil- and political strategist continues to well as cajoling lawmakers and other high pub- Schuerholz was instrumental in securing the ity for the disabled and receiving dozens of Chip & Putt. President/CEO Newell Brands grow the traditional religious-ori- lic officials to march in line with the Deal new stadium deal that will see the Braves play- awards for her various civic involvements. DAVID PERDUE With a long career in the industry, ented Faith and Freedom Coalition. FFC mem- U.S. Senator Polk has overseen a period of great bers in Georgia are a major force in promoting growth for Newell Brands since Few U.S. senators in recent times or opposing legislation at the state level and, at being named President and CEO in have risen to prominence as quick- the national level, FFC helped motivate count- 2011. The company reported over $16 billion in ly as Perdue, who has emerged as a less conservative Christians and Jews to elect sales in 2016, making it one of the world’s respected conservative voice. An Donald Trump as president. largest consumer goods companies. often-vocal ally of President Trump, the for- mer Fortune 500 CEO’s constituent service earns high marks. He enjoys influential posi- HOUSE COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN tions on the Judiciary, Banking, Budget and Agriculture committees. Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Higher Education Motor Vehicles Tom McCall Elberton Jasper Dry Branch Former Georgia Governor Appropriations Human Relations & Aging Natural Resources & Environment Auburn Jefferson Newnan Some were surprised when the for- Banks & Banking Industry & Labor Public Safety & Homeland Security mer Georgia governor jumped back Vidalia McDonough Hartwell into the political scene to help get Budget & Fiscal Affairs Oversight Information & Audits Regulated Industries his cousin David elected to the U.S. Chuck Martin Alpharetta Darlene Taylor Thomasville Howard Maxwell Dallas Senate in 2014. But those paying attention Code Revision Insurance Retirement know that the Perdue machine still has clout Lawrenceville Richard H. Smith Columbus Paul Battles Cartersville in Peach State politics. He was a no-brainer Defense & Veterans Affairs Interstate Cooperation Rules to be nominated for Agriculture Secretary by Rincon Marietta John Meadows Calhoun the president, especially since he is an expe- Economic Development & Tourism Intragovernmental Coordination Science & Technology rienced politician/businessman with a Ron Stephens Savannah Brooklet Acworth farmer’s background. (He awaits Senate con- Education Judiciary Small Business Development firmation as this is written.) Duluth Sandy Springs Chad Nimmer Blackshear EGBERT PERRY Energy, Utilities, & Telecommunications Judiciary Non-Civil Special Rules Marietta Smyrna Cordele Chairman, The Integral Group Ethics Juvenile Justice State Planning & Community Affairs The West Indies-born Perry started LaGrange Canton Eastman real estate development and invest- Game, Fish, & Parks Legislative & Congressional State Properties ment firm Integral in 1993. Now David Knight Griffin Reapportionment Cuthbert Johnnie Caldwell Thomaston operating in 12 cities and boasting 5 Governmental Affairs Transportation separate offices, the company’s expertise in Albany MARTOC Dawsonville Tom Taylor Dunwoody Health & Human Services Ways & Means Marietta Jay Powell Camilla LEE THOMAS GEORGIA GEORGIA Deputy Commissioner, Georgia Film, Music & SENATE COMMITTEES & CHAIRMEN BOARD OF REGENTS Digital Entertainment SUPREME COURT Georgia born and Georgia trained, Administrative Affairs Health & Human Services Retirement Thomas has been a key figure in D-1 Don Waters Chief Justice P. Harris Hines David Shafer Duluth Buford Ellis Black Valdosta drawing Hollywood’s biggest stars D-2 Doreen Poitevint to the Peach State. By helping Presiding Justice Agriculture & Consumer Affairs Higher Education Rules John Wilkinson Toccoa Fran Millar Atlanta Chickamauga D-3 Thomas Hopkins Jr. Chair movie studios with their connections in the Justice Robert Benham state and by making sure they take advantage Appropriations Insurance & Labor Science & Technology D-4 Dean Alford of the tax credits that draw them here, she is Justice Carol Hunstein Jack Hill Reidsville Jackson Bruce Thompson White D-5 Sarah Reed an instrumental part of what is among Justice Banking & Financial Institutions Interstate Cooperation Special Judiciary D-6 Kessel Stelling Jr. Georgia’s most visible rising industries. William Ligon Brunswick Dalton Tucker Justice Keith Blackwell D-7 Richard Tucker CHRIS TOMLINSON Economic Development & Tourism Judiciary Non-Civil State & Local Governmental Operations Executive Director, Georgia Regional Justice Michael Boggs Carollton Jesse Stone Waynesboro Roswell D-8 Rusty Griffin Jr. Transportation Authority Justice Nels Peterson Education & Youth Natural Resources & the Environment State Institutions & Property D-9 Philip Wilheit Marietta Danielsville Columbus Named as Executive Director in Justice Britt Grant D-10 Ben Tarbutton 2014, Tomlinson uses his back- Ethics Public Safety Transportation ground as a lawyer for transporta- Bainbridge Ocilla Alpharetta D-11 Neil Pruitt Jr. Brandon Beach tion agencies to lead the GRTA to of Deal’s gubernatorial campaign, chair of the Finance Reapportionment & Redistricting Urban Affairs D-12 new and exciting heights. With the state legis- Laura Marsh Georgia Board of Regents, and a slew of other Rome Savannah Savannah lature making big investments in transporta- D-13 Sachin Shailendra board memberships. tion infrastructure, expect to see Tomlinson’s Government Oversight Regulated Industries & Utilities Veterans, Military, & Homeland Security D-14 E. Scott Smith name even more in coming years. JOHN A. WILLIAMS Bremen Rick Jeffares McDonough Hunter Hill Atlanta Real Estate Developer At-Large Paul Bowers WILLIAM UNDERWOOD Founder of Atlanta’s Post Properties, At-Large Don Leebern Jr. President, Mercer University Williams left in 2001 and deter- At-Large James Hull Vice Chair Now in his 11th year as Mercer’s mined to create a similar culture to PAT WILSON 18th president, Underwood has the one he developed at Post. So in Commissioner, Georgia Department of At-Large T. Rogers Wade overseen a period of incredible 2009 he and attorney Lenny Silverstein Economic Development MOST INFLUENTIAL MEDIA At-Large Larry Walker growth including a 22 percent launched Preferred Apartment Communities, A former staffer for Gov. Sonny DAVID RUBINGER ANDRE JACKSON increase in enrollment, two new medical which ended 2016 with $2.6 billion in assets. Perdue, Wilson was appointed Publisher, Atlanta Business Chronicle Editorial Page Editor, Atlanta Journal-Constitution school campuses, and a huge expansion of But there’s more. This visionary, back in the Commissioner of the GDEcD in DAVID ALLISON PhD programs and students. The editorial/opinion pages are JEFF SPRECHER late ‘80s, teamed up with then-state lawmakers 2016 after having been a top offi- Editor, Atlanta Business Chronicle separate from the AJC newsroom. Johnny Isakson and Roy Barnes to pass legisla- cial in the department for years. The new CEO, Intercontinental Exchange NEIL WARREN Since 2015 when Rubinger And while the editorials still usual- tion creating the successful public/private CID public face of Georgia’s economic develop- The Sandy Springs-based founder/ Sheriff, Cobb County took over, the Chronicle ly echo the liberal “party line,” (Community Improvement District) to assist ment agency, he is a key player in the state’s Jackson writes some that can be thoughtfully CEO of Intercontinental Exchange, Now in his fourth term following a has become one of the growth and address traffic congestion. Georgia attempts to draw new industries and invest- centrist and sometimes pro-private enter- who engineered the purchase of the convincing victory last year, Warren largest business journals now has 26— and they help fund everything ments to the state. prise. To his credit, the veteran journalist has New York Stock Exchange in 2013, is one of the state’s most well- in the country. In Atlanta its influence and cir- from street/infrastructure construction to added far more political balance to the previ- continues to score numerous strategic acqui- known sheriffs. With over 800 STEVE WRIGLEY culation clout rivals that of the daily newspa- maintenance of water and park systems. ously hard-left opinion pages— especially sitions. He has cemented a reputation as a employees and an annual budget approaching Chancellor, University System of Georgia per— in no small measure because veteran edi- with letters to the editor. Georgia civic and philanthropic leader, and $75 million, his duties go well beyond those of tor Allison knows his readership and has forged remains active as a board member of Atlanta’s GEORGIA Predecessor Hank Huckaby left some a newsroom staff with impressive contacts that a typical lawman. Warren was named “Sheriff KEVIN RILEY Buckhead Coalition of business leaders. COURT OF APPEALS big shoes to fill. But with a strong often scoops every other Georgia media outlet. of the Year” by the Georgia Sheriffs’ background in education and gov- Editor, Atlanta Journal-Constitution CLAIRE STERK Association in 2014, and the Fox News ernment affairs that includes work- OTIS BRUMBY III BERT ROUGHTON Channel once named him one of America’s President, Chief Judge Sara Doyle ing as chief of staff to former Gov. Zell Miller Publisher, Marietta Daily Journal Print Managing Editor, Atlanta Journal-Constitution “top 10” anti-illegal immigration sheriffs. and being a key figure in the creation of the The Netherlands-born Sterk became A third generation of Brumbys are These ideologically-dri- Presiding Judge Anne Elizabeth Barnes state lottery and the HOPE scholarship, Wrigley Emory’s first female President earlier J. ALVIN WILBANKS successfully striving to grow the ven liberal editors greatly seems to have big feet. this year, when she took over from Gwinnett County Schools CEO/Superintendent Presiding Judge Yvette Miller company and improve the news influence news story James Wagner. With an impressive Head of this nationally-recognized product during a tough time for tra- slants and, just as impor- Presiding Judge John Ellington background in public health, her first challenge public school system for over 20 Former Atlanta Mayor, Former U.N. Ambassador ditional print media generally. Otis Brumby III tant, decide what news is to be omitted or was dealing with demands to protect illegal years, Gwinnett has twice received serves as the publisher of the Marietta Daily downplayed by reporters and feature writers. immigrant students and the backlash that may Presiding Judge Stephen Louis Dillard All of the names on this list are influ- Journal (which has a center-right editorial Anti-Trump news stories, justified or not, are the prestigious Broad Prize, which ential, but only a select few will wind follow from both local and federal governments. honors school districts making the greatest Presiding Judge Christopher McFadden bent, in contrast to the Atlanta newspaper), dominant of late. However, they do preside She wisely announced that the college would up in history textbooks. Young’s is Neighbor Newspapers & Cherokee Tribune— over an award-winning newsroom that progress in raising student achievement and one of those, with his background as obey all federal law and that there would be no Judge Gary Blaylock making him, like his father and grandfather, includes fine investigative and beat reporters reducing achievement gaps among low- and a leader of the 1960s civil rights movement and “sanctuary” campus. non-low income groups. He is also familiar with one of Georgia’s foremost newsmen. with good sources who perform excellent Judge William Ray later as a U.S. congressman, mayor of Atlanta, the political side of education, serving as chair- watchdog research and reporting on politi- ERIC TANENBLATT and ambassador to the United Nations. A key LEWIS W. DICKEY, JR. cians and public institutions. Principal, Dentons man of the Board of Trustees for the Georgia Judge Lisa Branch figure in Atlanta’s rise as the South’s most Chairman/President/CEO, Cumulus Media Teacher Retirement System and was the first prominent city, Young’s legacy can be felt and DAVID DICKEY HILTON HOWELL With an extensive background in chairman of the Georgia Education Coalition. Judge Carla Wong McMillan politics that includes stints as chief seen nearly everywhere you look. President, Dickey Broadcasting Company President/CEO Gray Television, Inc. of staff to Gov. Sonny Perdue and PHILIP WILHEIT SR. Judge Brian Rickman KLAUS ZELLMER Atlanta-based Cumulus As president of Gray Television, which owns and operates more national finance co-chair for Gov. President/CEO, Wilheit Packaging Materials CEO, Porsche Cars of North America Media is the second Mitt Romney’s 2012 presidential campaign, Judge Amanda Mercier largest owner and opera- than 100 TV stations in over 50 A close ally of Gov. Nathan Deal, Zellmer oversees a sprawling Atlanta markets nationwide, Howell clearly this Atlantan brings his experience and rela- tor of AM and FM radio Wilheit has 40 years of experience Judge Clyde Reese complex that includes a driving wields considerable influence in tionships to work as one of Dentons’ promi- stations in America. Dickey Broadcasting Co., in the packaging business including track, corporate offices, and a techni- the media industry. He also serves on the nent Georgia public policy gurus. a subsidiary of Cumulus, is credited with as president of Gainesville-based Judge Tripp Self III cal training center. The former CEO board of a half-dozen other companies and has launching sports talk radio in Atlanta two Wilheit Packaging. His resume doesn’t end of Porsche Germany is also responsible for the a history in public service as well. Judge decades ago. Dickey also recently locked up there though— with stints as chairman of the importation and distribution of vehicles via an extension with the Atlanta Braves that Georgia Chamber of Commerce, former chair four ports of entry and nearly 200 dealerships keeps it as the teams flagship radio partner nationwide. for the next decade. JIM COX KENNEDY GEORGIA’S Chairman, Cox Enterprises PUBLIC UNIVERSITY PRESIDENTS The grandson of Cox Enterprises founder James Cox, Kennedy cur- rently serves as chairman to the media empire. A renowned philan- Dr. David Bridges Agricultural College thropist and nature enthusiast, his reach doesn’t stop with his family’s business. When Arthur Dunning Albany State University you’re worth over $6 billion, it’s hard not to be influential. Linda M. Bleicken Armstrong State University TIM McVAY Vice President/General Manager, WSB Dr. Gary McGaha Atlanta Metropolitan State College MISTY TURNBILL News Director, WSB-TV Brooks Keel Augusta University As the flagship station of Cox Media Group, WSB Dr. Stuart Rayfield Bainbridge State College and its five sister radio stations have more view- ers, (and listeners) than any other local sta- Tim Hynes Jr. Clayton State University tion in America. The hard-working McVay, who has been with Cox his entire career, Dr. Greg Aloia College of Coastal Georgia ascended to the post of WSB general manager in 2011 and has partnered with Turnbill to Columbus State University make WSB the state’s top rated station. Chris Markwood WILLIAM S. “BILLY” MORRIS III Margaret Venable Dalton State College Chairman, Morris Communications Company WILLIAM S. “WILL” MORRIS IV Robert G. Boehmer East Georgia State College President/CEO, Morris Communications Company Paul Jones Fort Valley State University Morris corporate head- quarters is based in Augusta, but its media Steve Dorman Georgia College & State University holdings include three Georgia newspapers— The Augusta Chronicle, Dr. Stanley “Stas” Preczewski Georgia Gwinnett College The Savannah Morning News and the Athens Banner-Herald. Billy Morris last year celebrat- Donald Green Georgia Highlands College ed 50 years as Chronicle publisher (he assumed the position from his father) and now son Will Morris presides over an impressive Bud Peterson Georgia Institute of Technology empire. In fact, the latest addition to its mag- azine division is Georgia Trend. Jaimie L. Hebert Georgia Southern University DINK NeSMITH Georgia Southwestern State University President/Co-owner, Community Newspapers Charles E. Patterson NeSmith’s Community Newspapers publishes more than two dozen Mark Becker papers both in Georgia and sur- rounding states. He also boasts an impressive civic service resume, including stints as chairman of the Georgia Board of Sam Olens Kennesaw State University Regents, president of the Georgia Press Association, and emeritus trustee of the University of Georgia Foundation. Christopher Blake Middle Georgia State University BILL SCHNEIDER Cheryl Davenport Dozier Savannah State University Vice President/GM, Fox5/WAGA-TV MIKE McCLAIN Dr. Virginia M. Carson South Georgia State College Vice President/News Director, Fox5/WAGA-TV The dynamic duo of University of Georgia Schneider and McClain Jere Morehead have turned the local Fox5 news operation into a Bonita Jacobs University of North Georgia power to be reckoned with due to expanded news coverage and ever-climbing ratings. The Kyle Marrero University of West Georgia station now runs a strong second in Atlanta, with its 10pm broadcast in particular the most Valdosta State University popular in its time slot. Richard Carvajal Saluting the 2016 JAMES ‘INFLUENTIALS’

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr (L) catch- Clayton State University President Tim Hynes (L) Georgia House Speaker David Ralston, R-Blue ing up with former state Economic Development networking with Georgia’s Power's John Ridge, compares notes with state Sen. Steve Commissioner Craig Lesser (right). D’Andrea (M) and Atlanta attorney Cary Ichter. Gooch, R-Dahlonega

Specialthe thanks to hall booth smith firm The 2016 Lawmakers of the Year Award went to (L-R) Reps. Barry for sponsoring Georgia Power Co. President and CEO Paul Bowers Fleming, R-Harlem, Stacey Evans, D-Smyrna and Steve Gooch, R- our reception accepts the 2016 Georgian of the Year Award from Dahlonaga. Pictured with James Magazine CEO Phil Kent and Georgia InsiderAdvantage & James Magazine CEO Phil Kent. House of Representatives Speaker David Ralston, R-Blue Ridge.

Hall Booth Smith attorney John Hall Former Atlanta Mayor Sam Massell (L) talking holding court. about— guess what?— the 2017 mayoral race. tlanta’s Commerce Club was the venue on A special guest was Georgia House of January 18th for an InsiderAdvantage/James Representatives Speaker David Ralston, who pre- Magazine “2016 Influential Georgians” recep- sented three InsiderAdvantage/James “2016 tion sponsored by the Atlanta law firm Hall Lawmakers of the Year” awards. The recipients Booth and Smith. Approximately 70 attendees— rang- were state Sen. Steve Gooch, R-Dahlonega, who Aing from various state and local elected officials to was elected majority whip of the Senate GOP prominent business, judicial and political leaders— Caucus in 2014 and has been a key policy-maker in were welcomed by InsiderAdvantage/James CEO and the critical area of transportation; state Rep. Stacey Publisher Phil Kent and Hall Booth Smith Managing Evans, D-Smyrna, a lawyer known as a voice for, Partner John Hall. among other issues, restoring and preserving the Kent presented the “2016 Influential Georgians HOPE Scholarship; and state Rep. , R- Award” to Georgia Power Company CEO Paul Bowers. Harlem, an attorney who has sponsored numerous Sen. Steve Gooch, R-Dahlonega, greeted by Hall Booth Smith’s Alex Booth giving James State Rep. John Wilkinson, R-Toccoa, holding well-wishers after receiving his award. magazine’s CEO free legal advice. forth on weighty legislative issues. Bowers became chairman, president and CEO of criminal justice bills. Georgia Power in 2010 having previously served as Ralston commended Kent along with chief financial officer of the Southern Company. His InsiderAdvantage/James Magazine “for presenting business, civic and charitable service is wide-ranging fair and balanced information necessary to all an impressive— which is why James chose him for Georgians— and I don’t usually praise the media.” the award. His board memberships include serving on Attendees included prominent businesspeople, the University System Board of Regents, the Georgia members of the state Supreme Court and Court of Research Alliance, the Georgia Historical Society, the Appeals, various judges and lawyers, the state’s Atlanta Committee for Progress and the policy adviso- attorney general, Republican and Democrat activists, ry board for the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce. high-powered lobbyists of government affairs firms, a He was also the 2015 chairman of the Georgia bipartisan group of state legislators and former Chamber of Commerce. Atlanta Mayor Sam Massell. Cobb County Assistant District Attorney Georgia Power’s Todd Terrell (L) and Fulton James magazine CEO Phil Kent talks politics Michael Carlson (L) chats with Rep. County Superior Court Judge Craig Schwall with state Reps. Calvin Smyre, D-Columbus, Barry Fleming, R-Harlem. witnessing the awards ceremony. and Stacey Evans, D-Smyrna. IT DOESN’T TAKE A GENIUS TO KNOW THAT WHEN YOU PLAY, GEORGIA’S KIDS WIN.

I RECENTLY SAW A PRESS RELEASE with some exciting nationwide across news. The headline read “1000+ Georgia Schools ‘beat multiple measures. On the odds’ in 2016!” The same release stated that the AP exams, Georgia has the 16th high- Gwinnett County was named a College Board Advanced est AP pass rate in the nation. The per- Placement (AP) District of the Year as well as 10 addi- centage of Georgia graduates scoring a tional districts receiving an honor for increasing their “3” or higher on AP exams has AP scores while simultaneously maintaining or increas- increased over seven percentage ing the percentage of students earning a “3” or higher. points since 2006, while nearly dou- These are all proud accomplishments. bling the number of students par- I think about educational outcomes a lot. It’s my job. ticipating in the program. As I pondered these results, the announcements struck Georgia students continue to outperform the national me as different from the normal reporting and discus- average on both the SAT and ACT. sions I hear about public education in Georgia. The old Despite these gains and achievements, considerable trope “Thank goodness for , otherwise public discourse involving the K-12 public schools is Georgia would be last” comes to mind. how they are “failing.” While much of this narrative In fact, over the past decade, educational outcomes began under the No Child Left Behind era, it has most have been steadily improving as Georgia has raised recently been fueled by debate over the Opportunity expectations around standards and instructional sys- School District (OSD). The public attention has primarily tems to ensure that students are college- and career- been focused around schools on “the list,’ which schools ready when they graduate high school. Georgia has received an “F” and for how long have they been failing. implemented some of the highest graduation require- That narrative needs to change. This is not to sug- ments in the country, including four credits of both sci- gest that addressing the needs of schools, especially ence and math. schools that are chronically underperforming expecta- Georgia is seeing the results of these changes. The tions, is not a real and pressing issue. There are in fact high school graduation rate has increased nearly 10 per- students who attend schools for their entire academic centage points since 2012 and student readiness for post- career that are unable to provide the teaching and secondary work has improved. Since 2010, the number of resources needed for them to be successful. This is graduates requiring remediation upon entering post-sec- not acceptable. However, labeling these schools, and ondary has dropped over six percentage points for by extension the students, educators, families and English and nearly 10 percentage points in math. communities that make-up the school, as failures These changes have also increased Georgia’s ranking continued on page 22

IT DOESN’T TAKE A ROCKET SCIENTIST 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 TO HELP KIDS WITH THEIR EDUCATION. has contributed more than $18.1 billion to education. On top of that, more than galottery.com 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. inaccurately identifies the problem and hinders the difficult circumstances. ability to find a solution. As I ponder Georgia’s public education system, I Much of the root problems around chronically low- think about all the students and the educators who performing schools can be found in the impacts of serve them. Educators, particularly those who work in poverty and a history of disinvestment in local com- impoverished communities, need support and encour- GEORGIA’S LEGAL ENVIRONMENT munities. In an excellent Atlanta Journal-Constitution agement. They need resources and training to serve all article examining the costs of educating low-income the growing needs of their students. These needs ON A CONSISTENT DOWNWARD TREND students, reporter Ty Tagami profiled a ‘failing school’ include the gaining of knowledge, to be sure. But their in DeKalb County. This elementary school had more needs also run the gambit of social, emotional, and by Kade Cullefer than 50 students living in an abandoned apartment physical health supports. Sometimes that need is as building, with no electricity or water. When the build- basic as a winter coat and breakfast. WHEN GEORGIANS THINK Georgia is the No. 2 market for personal injury adver- ing was demolished, educators struggled to help their There is much to celebrate in Georgia’s schools. tising in the country. Any Georgian who watches daytime suddenly homeless students and families find new Georgia is no longer ranked in the cellar but has moved about what is good for their communities, the economy television or listens to the radio is guaranteed to see or housing and MARTA passes. They provided luggage up to the middle of the pack. There are pockets of excel- and quality of life, we’re proud to tout the state’s compet- hear aggressive advertising strategies to solicit individu- and clean clothes, among addressing other needs of lence and success across the state. However, those pock- itiveness, business friendly practices and innovation. als to bring unnecessary litigation which inevitably clogs homeless children. Knowing this, I ask: Is this a school ets are not available to all students. And, in some com- Georgia has become a diverse global marketplace with a the courts and delays the timely administration of justice that is failing its students? munities, they have never been. That is the issue. We vibrant economy. Unfortunately, the state’s competitive for all citizens. To make matters worse, many cases are The existence of chronically struggling schools is but need new language around communicating our global presence will diminish if we don’t address our brought without concern for potentially bankrupting small a symptom of a larger problem. The problem is that improved education rankings. We also need language unhealthy legal system. businesses no matter how ridiculous the claim. many schools are being overwhelmed by issues of that helps identify the problems, lifts up solutions, and According to the U.S. Chamber’s Institute for Legal For example, a doughnut shop in Columbus was poverty and community disinvestment at a time when provides support to help communities improve their Reform, Georgia’s legal climate has ranked 31 out of 50 recently sued for something that had nothing to do with expectations around student achievement are being schools. That will build a stronger Georgia. nationally— with a significant drop of seven places in their products, services or premises— one of their raised exponentially. Yet still, on average, student three years. There are several reasons for Georgia’s poor employees who was driving one of the owners’ vehicles achievement is rising. It’s not where we ultimately want Dr. Dana Rickman is the Policy and Research Director at the Georgia ranking, with the primary one beginning and ending with caused a motor vehicle accident resulting in no it. But educators are getting impressive results under Partnership for Excellence in Education. personal injury attorneys. The business model is designed long term injuries to the plaintiff. The plaintiff in the to maximize their profits by creating and taking advantage case demonstrated medical expenses that totaled of a civil justice system that tilts unfairly in their favor. $49,000 and could have potentially totaled $100,000. Georgia’s unhealthy legal environment is caused by Despite the actual expenses incurred, the jury returned uncertainty. Without clarity, businesses are unable to a staggering verdict of $7 million against the doughnut determine their needs— from hiring employees, to invest- shop placing it on the verge of bankruptcy. Confusing ing in the development of new products or improving legal standards and an unfair legal climate are contribut- services provided to consumers. The objective of personal ing to runaway verdicts like these being levied every injury attorneys is to create enormous uncertainty in the day in Georgia. system because it directly benefits their financial inter- Furthermore, the American Tort Reform Association’s ests. To level the legal playing field, the business commu- “Judicial Hellholes” report placed the Georgia Supreme nity has created a new organization: Georgians for Court on its Judicial Watch List. In recent years, there Lawsuit Reform (GLR). Established to improve Georgia’s has been an expansion of civil liability, a lack of clear dis- increasingly expensive and ambiguous civil justice sys- missal standards in litigation, eagerness to certify class tem, GLR will focus on streamlining the decision making actions and record breaking verdicts— all issues GLR ability of Georgia businesses, nonprofits, and public enti- aims to tackle. ties. GLR will also focus on ensuring a fair, balanced, and Georgia’s unhealthy legal environment doesn’t exclu- efficient civil justice system for all citizens; and improv- sively impact big business, it also impacts industries such ing Georgia’s competitiveness for small businesses, as agriculture, transportation, education and innovation. expanding companies, and new industries. This great state must have a legal infrastructure that is fair, The business community recognizes the inherent chal- balanced, and accessible. Georgians for Lawsuit Reform lenges that currently exist. Recently, settlement factories looks forward to leading the way in making our civil justice have begun to pop up all over Georgia simply to extract system one that makes all Georgians proud. For Georgia to money from businesses. These firms sue parties to extract maintain its top ranking as the No. 1 state to do business, settlements quickly; if the party being sued decides to liti- we must aggressively reverse the current imbalance. gate, these firms often outsource the claims filed to other firms. In many cases, individuals who appear with attor- Kade Cullefer is the executive director of Georgians for Lawsuit Reform neys and claim injuries on television, over the radio or on 22 JAMES SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2016 billboards have never been a client of the attorney. AN EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW attending a high-quality, lottery-funded, Pre-K Program. and concerts; (b) other impulse driven consumer prod- To put things in perspective, the GLC raises approxi- ucts, such as soft drinks, convenience foods, and candy; mately $3 million each day for these programs. With and (c) other lotteries, particularly in neighboring Florida, every dollar raised by the GLC, the Georgia lottery’s ulti- South Carolina, and Tennessee. mate winners are the students The Georgia Lottery team is Georgian of the Year and families of Georgia. made up of committed individu- And not only is the lottery als with industry-leading skills good for education, it’s good for and experience. Working with business. Prizes paid to players our vendor partners, we actively and commissions earned by develop and introduce new retail partners are reinvested games to attract a broad spec- DEBBIE ALFORD back into Georgia’s communi- trum of players. On average, the Debbie D. Alford once led the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget, once headed Georgia’s virtual technical college and before ties, providing economic bene- Georgia Lottery offers 50-60 that was deputy director of the state budget office. Now the Atlantan is president and CEO of the Georgia Lottery Corp. When tak- fits to the local and to the instant ticket games at any ing the Lottery helm five years ago, Gov. Nathan Deal said: “(S)he’s one of the most intelligent, hardest-working and committed state’s economy. given time, has 11 draw games: government employees with whom I’ve ever worked. She’ll go to work every day fighting to increase revenues for our HOPE and Lottery funds helped elevate CASH 3, CASH 4, Fantasy 5, pre-k students.” Indeed, Alford leads one of the nation’s most successful lotteries, so it was an easy choice for James to salute her academic standards across Jumbo Bucks Lotto, Georgia Georgia’s higher education Five, Cash4Life, All or Nothing, 5 as “Georgian of the Year” and we’re pleased to publish this insightful interview for our readers. institutions and have had a pos- Card Cash, Mega Millions, itive impact on economic devel- Powerball, KENO! and a suite of JAMES Since Georgia voters passed the Lottery for Also, back in April of 2013, the Georgia Lottery opment in the state. Businesses interactive and mobile games. Education Act in 1992, more than 1.7 million Georgia stu- Corporation assumed the regulatory duties of compliance and employers looking to The marketplace has dents have attended an in-state college with the merit- and enforcement of Coin Operated Amusement expand or relocate to Georgia changed dramatically in 25 based HOPE and Zell Miller scholarships. Over a million Machines (COAMs) in Georgia due to the passage of know that, thanks to HOPE, years, as have customer expecta- Georgia four-year-olds have benefited from the pre- House Bill 487. To date, the Georgia Lottery Corporation they will have access to a tions. In response, we have kindergarten program. You have been president and CEO regulates over 21,000 COAMs at 5,000 locations. skilled, educated workforce and that their employees focused on innovation at retail and beyond. We create since 2012. Please explain the Lottery business model. and their children can benefit from lottery-funded edu- fun promotional campaigns to stimulate market demand JAMES Let’s focus just on HOPE for a minute. HOPE—– cational programs. statewide for lottery products and were one of the first DEBBIE ALFORD The Georgia Lottery Corporation Helping Outstanding Pupils Educationally— has award- lotteries in the United States to offer its products through (GLC) was established as a public benefit corporation to ed more than $8 billion in scholarships and grants. Put in JAMES What role does the GLC play in managing the the internet and mobile sales channel. effectively respond to an ever-changing marketplace. perspective how this has contributed to impressive addi- expenditure of lottery-funds? The Georgia Lottery’s mission is to operate and manage tional progress for Georgia. JAMES What’s next for the Lottery? lottery games to maximize revenues for educational pro- ALFORD The Georgia Lottery Corporation does not grams in Georgia. ALFORD Gov. Zell Miller’s vision for HOPE was to pro- appropriate lottery funds nor administer the educational ALFORD We understand the demand for HOPE and Pre- We have over 8,600 retail partners across the state vide an incentive for Georgia’s best and brightest stu- programs funded with lottery proceeds. We simply help K continues to grow, and so we are focusing on oppor- that offer our products— and 75 percent of those are dents to attend college in state. Generations of Georgia make them possible. tunities to grow our business. small businesses. students have and will continue to benefit from the edu- The Georgia Student Finance Commission, which Maintaining product relevance at retail as a mature lot- We have approximately 350 lottery employees in cational opportunities provided by Governor Miller’s administers HOPE, and the Department of Early Care tery is critical and a reason why we introduce new games seven district offices across the state. These dedicated extraordinary efforts. and Learning, which administers Georgia’s Pre-K every month and are always conducting game promotions. professionals are the reason the GLC is ranked globally The Georgia Lottery’s real success is measured by Program, are outstanding partners. We work collabora- Additionally, the expansion of our corporate busi- as a top performing lottery. Currently, the GLC ranks its impact on the state’s education system. Since the tively with both agencies to raise awareness for these ness development— especially at non-traditional loca- second of 44 U.S. Lotteries in per capita sales, third of 44 lottery began in 1993, the GLC has transferred more important educational programs. The Governor and tions— will allow us to reach more consumers where U.S. lotteries in per capita government transfers and than $18.1 billion in lottery proceeds to the Legislature appropriate dollars raised by the Georgia they visit and shop. fifth in the world in per capita sales. state treasury’s Lottery for Education Lottery Corporation. And we are growing our interactive and mobile In total, 96 cents of every dollar spent on a lottery tick- Account. Georgia’s lottery proceeds supple- channel that started in 2012. Players can now go online et is returned to Georgia citizens in the form of prizes paid ment the state’s education budget. JAMES You’ve been presiding over the introduction of or download the Georgia Lottery’s app to play some of to players, educational dollars and commissions to Georgia Today, almost everyone new and fun games in recent years. What’s the key to our games, scan their ticket to see if they have won, Lottery retailers. Of the remaining 4 cents, approximately knows of someone who has maintaining player interest? check winning numbers, or find a Lottery retailer. 2 cents is paid contractually to vendor partners, 1 cent to gone to college on a lottery- A final thought: We are especially appreciative of marketing and 1 cent to operating expenses. funded HOPE Scholarship ALFORD The Georgia Lottery competes for Gov. Nathan Deal and the for Last year alone, players won more than $2.7 billion or Grant, or jump started a consumer’s discretionary dollar against: their support of the educational programs funded with in prizes, $1.1 billion was raised for Georgia’s HOPE & their education by (a) other forms of entertainment, such as lottery-dollars and share their ongoing commitment to Pre-K Programs, and retailers earned more than $270 movies, sporting events, video rentals ensuring the long-term viability of HOPE and Pre-K. million in commissions. Scenes from The Battery Atlanta

The county isn’t having to come supporting the development back and take care of the infra- that’s taking place within the structure. It’s already in place, guidelines of these plans. These and the county can now focus are truly community generated on future plans. plans,” he says. “This has been a true public- Traffic has obviously been a private partnership. And as a major concern for some as the ucked in the eastern edge of Cobb County, sitting office buildings are being built in District 2. Nearly result of pre-planning that has development boom continues in between I-75 and I-285 and anchored by the new 5,000 residential units are being built in and around taken place between the county east Cobb. “I understand that we home of the Atlanta Braves, SunTrust Stadium is the stadium. More than 3,000 full-time and part-time and the CID, we are able to put have asked for a lot of forgive- in the midst of what is being billed as the “South’s jobs are being created around the stadium complex and the density and the people where ness with all the roadwork that is Preeminent Lifestyle Destination.” The Battery Atlanta. the infrastructure already exists. currently going on,” said Ott. “I Welcome to The Battery Atlanta— future home to “A lot of things stalled during the recession,” said We aren’t reacting the growth. understand this has been a big 550 modern residences, more than 40 fashion retailers Ott, who has served eight years on the Board of We have a plan.” inconvenience. But as everything and boutiques, unique restaurants and eateries, the Commissioners and another four years on the Planning That, Ott says, includes comes together this will all Omni Hotel featuring luxury accommodations and even Commission. “Everything is back in action again. Retail preparing for over 10,000 new makes sense, and everything will the new home of Atlanta’s famed . shopping centers are filling up— there are no vacant residents, and nearly 625,000 be worthwhile. Is everything No doubt it is a great time to be in Cobb County. buildings in the commercial and retail centers. BoneFish square feet of new and re- going to be perfect? No. But the “There are definitely some great things going on in Grill and Chuy’s Tex Mex have opened, and great things developed retail. county staff, the Braves’ organi- Cobb County right now,” said District 2 Commissioner are happening at Cumberland Mall. Everything is boom- “We’re not just talking about zation and the CID are working Bob Ott, whose district is home to SunTrust Park, The ing around here.” new retail and commercial com- together to come up with the Battery Atlanta and more than $4.5 million in develop- Planning has been the key, Ott says, as well as the ing in, but we are looking at a lot best plan possible.” ment and re-development. “And it’s not all about the partnership with the Cumberland Community of re-development,” he said. “A As opening day for the Braves and Sun Trust Park.” Improvement District (CID). lot of the businesses and restau- Braves approaches— the first As this area of Cobb County prepares for the Braves’ “Twenty-five years ago, when the Cumberland CID rants that were already are re- regular-season game at opener in their new home in April, the rest of District was formed, they began making plans for this,” said designing and re-opening.” SunTrust Park is on April 14 2— that runs from Smyrna to the tip of northeast Ott. “Because of 25 years of work, the infrastructure is According to the Cumberland against San Diego— officials Cobb, is preparing for an economic boom. Five Class A in place for everything that is taking place here now. CID website, “of the established have begun releasing timelines $5 billion in new investment to for the projects. be realized in Cumberland by Two of the biggest and high- 2018, approximately $3 billion est-profile parts of the develop- will go towards enhancements in ment— a Comcast office build- public infrastructure. Many of ing and an Omni hotel— are these projects are being expected to open late this year advanced by the CID and will go and early next year, respectively. a long way to ensure the com- The three apartment commu- munity proactively addresses its nities within The Battery are slat- infrastructure needs ahead of ed to open to residents in April, growth in the market.” May and June. Ott says most of the new Information on the progress development is actually follow- of Sun Trust Park, the Battery, ing master plans that were and road improvements can be developed several years ago. This found on the county website at includes the areas of Johnson https://cobbcounty.org/ or at Ferry, Powers Ferry and Vinings. bravesupdate.com All three plans were developed through much community Cindy Morley is a staff writer for James. input. “The community support- ed the initial plans as they were developed. And now they are MARCH/APRIL 2017 27 THE JAMES 2017 Legislators oF the Year

REP. EARL EHRHART

A 1981 graduate of the University black House leader since Reconstruction. He of Georgia (majoring in political effectively carried legislation for the governor and science), Earl Ehrhart is the continued to forge bipartisan friendships. In 1998 he longest-serving Republican mem- was elected the first black head of the Democrats’ ber of the Georgia House of legislative caucus and in 2001 he was appointed to Representatives. His district lies lead the state Democratic Party. Five years later “the in northwest Cobb County and he is the co-CEO of dean” was elected president of the National Black Lakepoint, a large sports tourism destination. Caucus of State Legislators— a signal honor. Representative Ehrhart was first elected in 1988 and Smyre serves as executive vice president of is a member of the Appropriations Committee (where he corporate external affairs at Synovus and is president of chairs the Appropriations/Higher Education panel that the Synovus Foundation. As one veteran Democrat oversees University System funding). He also is a mem- lawmaker told James: “Nothing happens in the ber of numerous other committees, including Rules. Democratic House caucus without Calvin’s input.” The National Federation of Independent Business named him a “Guardian of Small Business” due to his SEN. JOHN KENNEDY years of yeoman work on behalf of fostering business growth. The Powder Springs lawmaker also has received Attorney John F. Kennedy was the “Champion of the Free Enterprise System Award” elected to the state Senate in 2014 from the Associated Builders and Contractors of Georgia to represent six Macon-area along with many other awards for his legislative service. counties. Three years later he is The unabashed constitutional conservative is also now the Senate’s Majority Caucus not one to shy away from a legislative battle. In his early chairman. And, in that short time legislative years (as a Republican in the legislative span, he became the vice chairman minority) he made a name for himself battling racial of the Science and Technology quotas. Just this year he has pushed bills ranging from Committee, secretary of the Judiciary Non-Civil banning colleges from being “sanctuaries” for illegal Committee and was named a member of the Judiciary aliens to ensuring due process on college campuses and Banking and Financial Institutions Committees. regarding sexual assault allegations. He earned an undergraduate degree in from Mercer University and, in 1990, obtained his law REP. CALVIN SMYRE degree at Mercer’s School of Law. The senator has also served as president of the Macon Bar Association and is The Columbus native became the a State Bar board member. youngest member of the Georgia Before his election, Kennedy was a member of the House of Representatives when state Immigration Enforcement Review Board. As a floor he was elected in 1974. Always the leader for Gov. Nathan Deal in the Senate, he energetic go-getter and cagey successfully carried much of the criminal reform negotiator, the Democrat now legislation that is now law. A staunch defender of the known as the “dean of the House” embodied the rise of Second Amendment— he supports current “campus a younger generation of black leadership succeeding, carry” legislation— Kennedy is also a leading proponent and sometimes conflicting with, the generation that had of expanding the state’s transportation infrastructure. led the 1960s civil rights movement. Then-Gov. appointed Smyre a floor leader for the 1987 session, making him the first Did you know that the restaurant industry is workforce. The number of jobs Georgia restaurants pro- America’s second-largest private sector employ- vide is projected to grow to 516,600 by 2027. er? Restaurants are truly a driving force in our nation’s Restaurants can expect to see a 5.4 percent growth in economy. They provide jobs and build careers for mil- sales from 2016 to 2017, with a projected total sales lions of people, and play a vital role in local communi- amount of $19.6 billion this year. ties throughout the United States. The Georgia Restaurant Association (GRA), The industry’s anticipated numbers for this year Georgia’s only not-for-profit representing the state’s are staggering. According to the National Restaurant foodservice industry, takes immense pride in our Association’s 2017 restaurant industry forecast, restau- industry’s economic contribution on a national and rant-industry sales will reach $798.7 billion in 2017, a state level. By acting as the voice of the restaurant 4.3 percent gain over the industry’s estimated sales of industry in advocacy, education, and awareness, $766 billion in 2016. Restaurants are projected to restaurant owners and operators can spend their time remain the nation’s second-largest private-sector and efforts focusing on their employees, guests, and employer, providing jobs and careers for about one in overall business performance. 10 working Americans. The GRA continuously works on building and Georgia’s restaurant industry works closely with the maintaining relationships with elected officials to first largest private sector, which is agriculture. Their increase the advocacy efforts of our association. We industry grows the food and our industry cooks it for are dedicated to protecting the bottom line for the people to consume. Anything affecting our industry, food service industry. We work hard to fight any legis- whether it be legislation or the economy, has a huge lation that will have a negative effect on our industry impact on business. Our state currently has over 17,900 and we work hard to support any legislation that will eating and drinking place locations that employ 446,600 have a positive effect on our industry. people, which accounts for 10 percent of Georgia’s The GRA appreciates when legislators support small business and help mini- mize red. More than half of restaurants in the U.S. are inde- pendently owned and operated and 80 percent of those restau- rant owners started their indus- try careers in entry-level posi- tions. Indeed, the restaurant industry exemplifies how hard work and dedication can lead to a huge impact on our economy.

Karen Bremer is the CEO of the Georgia Restaurant Association. For more informa- tion on the NRA 2017 Restaurant Industry Forecast, visit www.restaurant.org/Forecast. For more information about the GRA, visit www.garestaurants.org.

MARCH/APRIL 2017 31 Spring Forward Financially by Mac McGrew

LIKE THE BEGINNING OF THE YEAR, Spring is a time for Retirement funding. People are living longer and the rebirth and renewal. If you haven’t yet scheduled a yearly cost of health care has been rising steadily. A primary financial review it is as important for your financial health as financial concern should be ensuring that you are on an annual checkup is for your physical health. A lot can happen track to accumulate the assets you and your spouse or in a year; whether it’s external like a change in government leadership or personal like a major life event, take the time to partner will need as you age. If your employer offers a evaluate your current financial situation so that you can be 401(k) plan, invest as much as you can afford. If you do prepared for what may lay ahead this year. not have access to an employer-sponsored plan, consider Below are four key areas that you— along with your funding an IRA. Keep in mind that if you didn’t make a spouse or partner— can examine with your professional yearly IRA contribution in 2016, per the IRS, you have advisors to help you stay on track. until the tax-filing deadline— April 18, 2017— to con- tribute for 2016. Asset allocation. Review your current investment strategy and evaluate if the current portfolio of stocks, Insurance coverage. It’s important to review how bonds, cash and other assets (real estate or alternative much insurance you will need every one to two years. investments) is on target. Depending on how certain That’s because a life insurance policy is not a one-size- asset classes have performed, you may need to realign fits-all or a once-and-done proposition. As life changes your allocation. However, be aware that some aspects of and major events occur (e.g., marriage, birth of a child, rebalancing your portfolio can result in tax implications, divorce, work promotion), so should your policy. especially for non-tax-deferred accounts. If you do need Forgetting to update your policy to mirror large life to rebalance, you can either sell existing assets and use events may result in insufficient coverage for you and the proceeds to bring your portfolio closer to the desired your loved ones when compensation is needed. mix or you can leave the portfolio as is and focus new investments on areas you want to increase. Finances are usually on our minds during tax season and therefore it is an excellent time to think about where Estate planning. Disputes over a last will and testa- you are in terms of achieving both short- and long-term ment can be costly, so be sure to keep your documents financial goals. What is it that can be improved upon from updated and clear to avoid any conflicts. Ideally, you last year? Although the definition of success varies for should explain your wishes to family members and each individual, you can continue to make positive choic- choose a wise executor(s) and alternates. Also, make es and take informed actions today for a better tomorrow. sure the beneficiary designations on all of your retire- ment accounts are in sync with your intentions and Mac McGrew is a wealth advisor with The Harrison McGrew Group at your current will. Otherwise, you could unintentionally Morgan Stanley in Atlanta. leave much more— or less— to some beneficiaries than others. At the intersection of business, politics and policy From Georgia’s state capitol to statehouses across the nation, from 6th Congressional Race: Washington, DC, to capitals around the globe, we offer bipartisan business, legal, political, legislative and leadership experience. Litmus for Georgia’s Political Future by Gary Reese

t was nip and tuck in ing new bent towards becoming

Eric Gordon Thurbert Mark Steven Sharon Randy Georgia’s 6th more competitive for Democrats, Tanenblatt Giffin Baker Burkhalter Labovitz Gay Evans Congressional District several from Georgia’s minority I between party have joined the race. and Donald Trump on election Democrat candidate Jon night last November. To the shock Ossoff, who worked for liberal of many, Trump won it by just a Congressmen John Lewis and Hank percentage point over Clinton. Johnson and is endorsed by the With the resignation of incum- far-left MoveOn.org group, is being Edward Ben Dan Jeremy Buddy Jeff Virgil Lindsey Vinson Baskerville Berry Darden Hamling Fludd bent Congressman Tom Price to hailed by the political Left as take the Health and Human someone who could squeak into Services Cabinet position in the JUDSON HILL the runoff if enough Democrats Trump administration, the 6th’s vote for him. Former state legisla- seat in the House of tor Ron Slotin is another Democrat Representatives opened to many who thinks he could gain some who have ambitions to move to traction. (Although, remember that Randy Scotty Amy James Alex Brian Lem Nuckolls Greenwood Odom Richardson McGee McGowan Ward Washington. The unexpected open- Price won re-election last ing in Congress has attracted both November with 61 percent of the old hands and faces to the non-par- district's vote— and that was from tisan April election to replace Price. Republicans and independents of Longtime politicians like state all stripes.) A world of legal and public policy Sen. Judson Hill and former With our publication date run- Secretary of State ning far ahead of the April 18 vote, experience at home in Georgia. have jumped into the mix, as has an analysis of who might win, or former state Sen. Dan Moody. All how, is tricky. What is clearer as three are veteran Republicans. this is written is a more general KAREN HANDEL Handel entered with the most look at the trends in Georgia poli- experience as a candidate for high tics that this special election at office. She had captured the least partially reveals. Secretary of State job before later The 6th will likely remain a losing tight contests for governor Republican district, especially con- and U.S. senator. Hill and Moody sidering the likely lighter voter have enjoyed popularity within turnout that comes with a special their districts. election or mid-term contest. These three would appear to be Absent the Trump factor— which the top contenders for the seat. But may have driven some usual, mod- a crop of new GOP names and faces, erate GOP voters into the ranks of ranging from businessman Bob the Democrats in the presidential Gray to Dunwoody jeweler Bruce continued on page 36 dentons.com LeVell, have dived into the race. DAN MOODY © 2017 Dentons. Dentons is a global legal practice providing client And because of the district’s seem- services worldwide through its member firms and affiliates. Please see dentons.com for Legal Notices. GEORGIA’S MOST election— the district is still viewed If there is any doubt that this as leaning GOP. change is afoot, one need merely INFLUENTIAL CITIZEN, EVER? examine the “technical” changes made A Look at during the most recent Georgia leg- by larry walker the Bigger Picture islative session to help add GOP- inclined white voters to the state Overall, demographics are House district of Republican Rep. Rich changing in longstanding Golick of Vinings. Republican strongholds such as The need for more “adjustments” Cobb and Gwinnett counties. For his edition of James is about Georgia’s most in Republican-held state Senate and United States. Presidents came and went, but Senator example, Cobb County for many BOB GRAY influential people. I’ll bet there will be lots of House districts will present themselves Russell was a constant. When Senator Russell years was a centerpiece of the T politicians named. Well, what I want spoke, everyone in Washington, even presi- after the next census of Georgia, which state’s GOP emergence in the to submit is the name of a person whom I feel will reflect a substantial growth of dents, listened. He was “the man.” 1980s and 90s. But the county’s might have been the most influential minority voters in the state. Let me tell you about a day in 1964 white population, which comprised Georgian of all time, and this includes some But all of these changes have that I spent with Senator Russell. I believe the vast majority of its Republican great people like James Edward Oglethorpe potential candidates, consultants and it was 1964 because President Kennedy votes, has slipped from being well (the namesake for this magazine), Dr. pundits transferring their attention in had already been killed and I have a letter more than 70 percent of the popu- Martin Luther King, Jr., President Jimmy the wrong direction as they calculate from Senator Russell dated February 22, lation to a narrow 52 percent Carter, Lucius Quintus Cincinnatis Lamar their chances of a candidate capturing a 1964 which refers to our meeting. I was in majority today. With all the new (that threw you, didn’t it?), Eli Whitney, statewide Republican nomination in law school at Georgia in Athens. Richard apartments and multi-family hous- , Bobby Jones, future years. The focus of much of Russell, IV, the Senator’s nephew, was a good ing units sprouting up all over, Crawford W. Long, Zell Miller, Sam their focus now is the southern half of friend of mine. He invited me to go with him Cobb is attracting a rush of both Nunn, etc. the state, which is indeed a sea of red to the Russell home-place in Winder, African-American and Hispanic BRUCE LeVELL Richard Russell served in public counties, and solidly Republican. That Georgia. Winder is 30 or 40 miles from voters, along with a heavy dose of office for 50 years. He was a member and speak- sea of red can be deceptive, however, Athens. We had a lunch at the Russell home younger voters who skew er of the Georgia House of Representatives, the given that it lacks substantial popula- with Senator Russell, my friend Dick, the sena- Democrat. 20th and youngest , and a 38- tion to fill the vast space. tor’s aide (I believe her name was Martha Tate) The reality is that Cobb may be year member of the . His Democrats see the growing “blue” and the Russells’ cook whose name was Modene drifting toward a future political Senate colleagues named his old office building areas of metro-Atlanta as evidence (I don’t recall her last name)— just the five of profile akin to south Florida’s the Richard Brevard Russell Senate Office that the state is now a “blended pur- us. It was a typical Southern cooked dinner much-mentioned Broward County. Building. Russell’s name was twice put forward as ple.” And perhaps by the next presi- (“dinner” is what we used to call the meal in the Broward is known to the nation as the Democratic candidate for president, and he dential contest the Peach State could middle of the day that was usually the main a heavily Democratic county. But probably could have been our president except be a purple one indeed. meal of the day). what isn’t as widely known is that for his stands on civil rights legislation. Still, his But for gubernatorial races, which After lunch, Senator Russell drove Dick because of its huge population, influence was unprecedented in the Senate lack the heavy turnout of presidential and me all over Winder and Barrow County. I Broward in sheer numbers supplies body that he loved so much and over which remember that we visited the Russell ceme- elections, and for special contests like one of the largest populations of he strode like The Colossus of Rhodes. the looming 6th contest, the results tery and one or two businesses in Republican votes in statewide I want to share with you something I will still lean GOP at least for now. Winder, but what I remember most is Florida elections. wrote about him in October 2001. I wrote The north of the state, including Cobb what Senator Russell told us that day. I Cobb is a long way from in that article titled “Senator Richard County— Georgia’s potential future will never forget it. Broward’s status, but there’s no Russell and the Kennedy Assassination” “Broward County”— still holds most of First, a little background. Senator denying that the power base of the that when Senator Russell spoke, every- the votes in determining statewide Russell was not only Chairman of the Republican vote in Georgia has drift- one in Washington, even presidents, lis- GOP nominees and general election Senate Armed Services Committee, he ed north of Atlanta and its once- tened. And they did! Here it is: winners. was also Chairman of the CIA “watch- vaunted metropolitan demographic dog committee” in the Senate. If anyone “doughnut” of predominantly white Last week, I wrote about . in the United States government knew Gary Reese is the associate editor of James. middle-class voters. For many years, Talmadge was the junior what was going on in the world as far as senator to Georgia’s senior Senator Richard continued on page 38 B. Russell. Russell was arguably the most RON SLOTIN powerful politician during his “time” in the after that day in Winder. I heard no confirmation of his statements for years. Then, a few years ago, in stories about President Kennedy, and otherwise, his statements were confirmed. What he told Dick and me that day— which I never doubted— was true! Now, bear this in mind. Senator Russell was a member of the Warren Commission that investigated President Kennedy’s assassination concluding that Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed President Kennedy acting alone. All members of the Commission signed the report except one. You guessed it— Senator Russell! The one person on the Commission who knew more about what was going on than any other. Since that 1964 day in Winder, Georgia— which was one of the most interesting days of my life— I have been President Lyndon Johnson and Russell confer in the Oval Office. intrigued by what Senator Russell knew and what he took to his grave that we will never know. Could it be that he knew surveillance, intelligence and counter-intelligence was of a conspiracy or involvement of other governments? Could concerned, it was Senator Russell. This is what he told us: it be that he knew that Lee Harvey Oswald did not act That we (the United States government) had put over 80 alone? Perhaps what he knew we will never know. EDUCAATTING TOMORROW’S CIA agents into Cuba and all had either been captured or And, now you know why I was listening so hard to killed by Fidel Castro and his people; and, that we had Senator Russell on that day. tried, without success to assassinate Castro. HEALLTTHCARE PROFESSIONALS I was flabbergasted and astounded by Senator Russell’s Larry Walker is a practicing attorney in Perry. He served 32 years in the Georgia statements. I had no direct contact with Senator Russell General Assembly and serves on the University System Board of Regents. Georgia Campus – Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (GA–PPCOM) is a private, not-for-profit branchh campus of the fully accredited Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, a multi-program institution with a moore than 100-year tradition of educationaal excellence.

DEGREES OFFERED • DOCTOR OF OSTEOPPAAATTHIC MMEDICINE (DO) • DOCTOR OF PHARMACY (PharmD) • MASTER OF SCIENCE IN BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES (MS) • MASTER OF SCIENCE IN PHYSICIAN ASSISTTAANT STUDIES (MS)

ATTEND AN OPEN HOUSE APRIL 77,, 2017 •Ǘ Ǭ  30 Register online at pcom.edu

625 Old Peachtree Road NW • Suwanee, GA 30024 • 678.225.7500 • PCOM.EDU