GMA members take advantage of trainings
Training sessions average about 50 to 60 attendees, who learn about everything from using AI to managing stress at work.
Every year, the Guilford Merchants Association offers a slate of professional development classes for members.
So far this year, members and employees of member companies have had the opportunity to learn about topics such as artificial intelligence in marketing, sales and cold calling, managing workplace stress, and SEO (search engine optimization) in marketing.
Training sessions are all free and held during the lunch hour. A free meal is included.
“GMA brings resources to employees of member companies on a wide variety of topics. We also offer digital marketing classes from beginner to advanced,” GMA Vice
President Michelle Bolick said.
There are about a dozen training sessions every year, with typically 50 to 60 people attending each class.
Digital Marketing Institute focuses on topics related to social media and online marketing
The Teach Me Tuesdays sessions focus on hard and soft skills, as well as business operation topics.
In addition, the RISERS Young Professionals group hosts professional development opportunities. This year, topics have included public speaking and understanding credit. Previous sessions covered networking as a young professional and how to set goals.
Presenters are typically GMA members, and are chosen based on requested topics gathered from members who attend events, participate in focus groups or take surveys.
Surveys taken after each
session show members appreciate the opportunity to learn about the various topics.
“I now have the tools to get started with generative AI!” one GMA member wrote.
Members say the classes are informative, very useful and well worth the time away from work.
“Exceeded expectations,” one GMA member wrote after
Continues on page 3
Food, fun and networking
Risers Vice Chairman Brandon Shanahan, The Resource Co., and Kayleigh Cook, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Greensboro, pose for a photo during the young professionals group’s July 16 lunch meetup at Taco Mama in Greensboro. See more GMA networking photos on Page 6.
GMA members respond to a question by presenter Joe Novara, Growth Academy Coaching, during the Aug. 26 Teach Me Tuesdays session “Bridging the Gap: Generations Working Better, Together” at GMA’s office in downtown Greensboro.
‘At the end of the day, it makes you feel good,’ Allen says
New member Jeff Allen has been volunteering for GMA events since he joined about a year ago
Jeff Allen began volunteering for Guilford Merchants Association events almost immediately after joining nearly a year ago.
“They need help. And I like helping people,” said Allen, who is the business development manager for Zoom Drain’s Greensboro franchise, which is owned by his son, Jason Allen.
He’s volunteered at several networking events, serving as a “flasher” — the person who gives out the stickers and tickets during the sticker game. He’s also helped out with setting up at an event.
Almost as soon as he joined GMA, he became part of one of the weekly networking groups — Competitive Advantage Networking, or the CAN group, as most members call it.
“They helped me come out of my shell, because this marketing is all new to me,” Allen said.
Allen moved from Texas to Greensboro about two years ago, and later joined his son’s new Zoom Drain franchise. The Greensboro-based Zoom Drain franchise serves residen-
VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT
tial and commercial customers in the Greensboro, High Point, Kernersville and Winston-Salem areas. Workers diagnose, clean, inspect, and repair drain and sewer lines.
They’re open 24/7 every day, even holidays, Allen said.
“It doesn’t matter what time it is, and we do not charge any service call fees,” he said, adding they also don’t charge after hours or emergency service fees.
Allen said his son has recently added another franchise in Kentucky and would like to expand to more locations in the future.
As part of his job with Zoom Drain, Allen has worked to make connections across the Triad.
“GMA is awesome for networking,” he said.
He said GMA offers a really laid back networking experience.
“It’s not hardcore, it’s inexpensive to join, and the networking opportunities are unlimited, really,” Allen said.
He likes the atmosphere at GMA and the contacts he’s made. Many have become friends.
“They’re just super helpful and
President & CEO
Vice President
Membership Development
Program/Events Manager
Membership Coordinator
Administrative Assistant
Operations Assistant
TRENDS is published for the members of the Guilford Merchants Association.
Publication Coordinator – Michelle Bolick
Phone (336) 378-6350
225 Commerce Place, Greensboro, N.C. 27401 www.mygma.org
friendly,” he said of GMAs staff.
Allen also helps out at events for the Piedmont Triad Apartment Association, which he joined to connect with apartment owners and property managers who might need the services that Zoom Drain provides. He has volunteered as a cook at association events and joined them in helping Backpack Beginnings by packing lunches and sorting toys and clothes for youth.
“It’s just being out in the community and getting to know my commu-
nity,” he said.
He said he’s had a good life, and he volunteers because he feels it’s time to start paying back a little.
“At the end of the day, it makes you feel good,” he said.
Jeff Allen Zoom Drain Office: 336-200-8773 Cell: 336-543-5551
jeff.allen@zoomdrain.com zoomdrain.com/greensboro
Upcoming events
G. Mark Prince
Michelle Bolick
Sharon Smith
Stacey Speight
Colleen Biedny
Melinda Thomas
Timera Poteat
The Guilford Merchants Association is a nonprofit organization founded in 1906.
Here’s what’s coming up: Sept. 16 — Member Orientation, noon-1 p.m., GMA, 225 Commerce Place, Greensboro. Registration begins at 11:45 a.m. Lunch provided.
Sept. 24 — Meet & Eat, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Grapes and Grains Tavern, 2001 Yanceyville St., Greensboro.
Sept. 25 — Risers Social, 4:30-6:30 p.m., Jake’s Billiards, 712 Spring Garden St., Greensboro
Oct. 2 — CelYOUbration, 5:30-8 p.m., TheVineyard, Painted Plate Catering, 3404 Whitehurst Road, Greensboro. Free admission to GMA member companies; $20 for guests of members.
Registration for events is required. Register at www.mygma.org.
Jeff Allen has volunteered at several networking events since joining the Guilford Merchants Association about a year ago.
McGill, Patrick McGill Travel
jots down notes during the July 10 Digital Marketing Institute on “Top SEO Essentials & Trends: How to Rank Higher in 2025,” which was presented by Nikki Corbett of Precise Creative.
Learning
Continued from page 1 the April 8 Teach Me Tuesdays class. “I anticipated boring, but left feeling maybe cold calls could be added to my business strategy.”
Members say they leave the training sessions with concrete tools to help them.
“I want to stay on top of new things and that’s why I attend these programs,” said Mebane Ham, HanesLineberry. “I am learning new tips and tricks and keeping up with technology.
Adriana Hernandez Medel, Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Central Piedmont, said training has helped staff members in multiple ways.
“It allows us to enhance our skills and develop both hard and soft skills that improve our efficiency and performance in each of our roles. It allows us to better problem solve,” she said.
Kim Macklanburg, Southern First Bank, talks about what to know before borrowing money on Aug. 14 at the RISERS Workshop on credit confidence. RISERS is GMA’s group for young professionals.
GMA makes $7,500 donation to the Learn to Swim program
The Guilford Merchants Association/FirstPoint donated $7,500 to Learn to Swim Inc. from the GMA/FirstPoint Foundation Fund. Pictured from left are: President/ CEO Richard Beard, Greensboro Sports Foundation; President/CEO Mark Prince, GMA/FirstPoint Inc.; Chairman of the Board John Thomas, GMA/FirstPoint Inc.; Susan Braman, executive director of Learn to Swim Inc.; Scott Johnson, general manager, Greensboro Coliseum Complex; and David Hoover, director of Aquatics, Greensboro Aquatic Center .
In North Carolina, unintentional drowning claimed the lives of 276 children under the age of 18 from 2013 to 2023, state date shows.
Since 2011, the Greensboro Aquatic Center and Guilford County Schools have worked together to teach second graders water safety and how to swim with the Learn to Swim program.
The program is funded by grants, sponsorships and donations with no cost to students or the school system.
The Guilford Merchants Association recently donated $7,500 to support Learn to Swim.
Participants receive 40 minutes of instruction for five days and are given swimsuits, goggles, swim caps and swim equipment. They also receive a
certificate of completion and a T-shirt.
For the 2024-25 school year, 3,351 students from 48 schools completed the program, with the goal of expanding to all Guilford County schools.
Since its inception, Learn to Swim has graduated more than 18,000 students.
Every year in the United States, 4,000 people die in unintentional drownings, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
For children ages 5 to 14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death, the CDC says.
Taking just one swim lesson can increase by 88% the likelihood of surviving a water emergency, according to Learn to Swim.
With 16 nonstop flights including major travel hubs like Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, and New York, PTI connects you directly to top destinations without the hassle.
Patrick
(right)
Entrepreneurs, small business owners ‘backbone’ of economy
Question: What are you passionate about and why?
Answer: I am deeply passionate about supporting business growth as a catalyst for broader economic development. Entrepreneurs and small business owners are the backbone of our economy, they fuel innovation, create jobs, and shape the character of our communities. Their resilience and grit are what make our state the best place to do business in the nation. Helping them succeed is not just rewarding; it’s essential to building a thriving, forward-moving economy.
Questions with ... 6
Rachel
Collins President and CEO
Business
High Point
Chamber of Commerce
Q: What are you most proud of in your career?
A: This year marks my seventeenth year with Business High Point, and I’m fortunate to have a long list of moments I’m proud of. One that stands out is being part of the “Dream Team” that envisioned and brought to life the Congdon Yards campus. Today, more than fifty businesses call
this collaborative hub their home, a testament to what’s possible when vision, partnership, and execution align. Congdon Yards has become a statewide model for public-private collaboration, and its catalytic impact continues to shape our city’s future. Beyond that, I’m incredibly proud of the impact our Business High Point team has every day. Their dedication to advancing our mission and moving our community forward inspires me constantly. I’m grateful to lead alongside them.
Q: Who is your hero?
A: My hero, without question, is my daughter. At a young age, she faced and overcame unimaginable challenges, enduring two major, life-threatening brain hemorrhages and multiple
Member orientation
GMA held a member orientation on July 22.
Pictured in front row from left are: Angela Coon, Equity Health; Natalie Hunt, Lamar Advertising; Angela Jones, Noor Staffing Group; Karen Anderson, Fortress Health; Michaela Brown, US Enhanced Personnel; Donna Mullins, Noor Staffing Group.
Second row from left: Julie Belmap, Adams Outdoors; Kim Feltes, Adams Outdoors; Jeremiah Mallow, Mallow Fire Safety; Stephanie Keaney, NCAIS; Tiffany Hansen, US Enhanced Personnel; Nicolas Nelson, Adams Outdoors; Deran Burris, Adams Outdoors and James Rosa Jr., Rosa Foundation.
Third row from left: Jamie Tracy, Carolina Custom Signs & Graphics; Julie Howe, Carolina Digital Phone; Becky Gilreath, Adams Outdoors; Demetrius Sanders (guest), LockedN Professional Pressure Washing; Scott Moore, DeLille|Field Commercial Real Estate; Shannon Cruz, WFMY TV (TEGNA); Scott Schutt, WFMY TV (TEGNA) and Zach Luckett, Carolina Custom Signs & Graphics.
Back row, from left: Sam Kanakanui, Netwave Solutions; Bridget McPhillips, NCAIS; John Wing, The Servant Center; Matt Thomas, US Enhanced Personnel; Mike Peters, Adams Outdoors.
brain surgeries. She had to relearn basic skills like walking and talking, things most of us take for granted. Watching her fight through that with unwavering grit and determination continues to leave me in awe. Today, she’s a sophomore at Appalachian State University, attending on a full-ride scholarship, with dreams of becoming a Pediatric ICU nurse so she can help others facing similar battles. Her resilience is nothing short of inspiring.
Q: What is a piece of advice for someone new to the workforce?
A: One of the most important lessons I share with those new to the workforce is this: you can lead from any position. Leadership isn’t defined by a title, it’s defined by action, initiative, and the willingness to support those around you. Look for ways to contribute beyond your job description and be the person who steps up when others step back. True leaders elevate their teams, and the strength of your leadership will always be reflected in the strength of those around you.
Q: What is one important skill that you think everyone should have?
A: The ability to truly listen, more
than you speak, is one of the most valuable skills anyone can develop. Active listening allows you to understand before reacting, build stronger relationships, and make more thoughtful, informed decisions. Pause, take it in, and respond with intention. You’ll always be more effective when you lead with your ears before your voice.
Q: What did you want to be when you grew up?
A: Growing up, I was certain I wanted to be an attorney. I’ve always had a strong sense of justice and a deep desire to ensure my perspective — and the perspectives of others — were heard and understood. (My mother would absolutely vouch for that.) While I didn’t pursue law, that same passion for advocacy has been a constant thread throughout my career. Today, it fuels my work in the Chamber world, where I have the privilege of being a voice for the business community and championing the issues that matter most to their success.
Rachel Collins
336-882-5000
rachel@bhpchamber.org bhpchamber.org
Collins
Name: Ali Lamb
Hometown: Greensboro
Residence: Greensboro
Age: 37
Education: High school diploma
Business: Bibey Machine & Fabrication
Role/title: Project manager
Responsibilities: I provide crossfunctional support in onboarding, payroll, project coordination, and operational efficiency. I contribute to workforce development through recruitment support, safety compliance, and training initiatives, while also leading employment engagement and community partnership efforts.
On GMA: Bibey Machine & Fabrication has been a proud member of GMA for many years, and after an invitation and some encouragement from our president, I began attending events myself. Getting involved with
GMA has been incredibly valuable both personally and professionally. It has opened the door to a strong network of local professionals and fostered relationships that have led to meaningful collaboration and mutual support with other area businesses.
On GMA benefits: GMA does an outstanding job of offering a diverse range of events that truly meet the needs of its members. I’ve especially enjoyed attending Teach Me Tuesdays and the Digital Marketing Institute sessions, both of which covered timely, relevant topics that directly apply to my day-to-day responsibilities. I appreciate that the programming is shaped by member input, which keeps
it practical and engaging and as someone who enjoys meeting new people, I also look forward to the networking events. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, making it easy to connect with others and grow your professional circle in a meaningful way.
On Risers: Risers has genuinely been one of the most rewarding parts of my GMA experience. When I first decided to explore what the group had to offer, I didn’t have many close professional connections who were in a similar stage of life or career. I was really looking for a space to grow, learn, and connect with others who could relate. What I found was an incredible group of motivated, down to earth, and genuinely kind people that are always ready to offer support, share advice, or simply have a great conversation. The events are consistently welcoming and low pressure, which makes it easy to engage and build connections naturally. I’ve started to build relationships with people I truly look forward to seeing, learning from, and growing alongside. It’s a refreshing reminder that professional development doesn’t have to be stiff or overly formal. It can be fun, real, and grounded in community. What piece of advice have you received that has helped you as a young professional?: One of the best
GMA Membership Council volunteers delivered thank you kits in appreciation to longtime loyal members of GMA this summer with a Members are Cool theme.
pieces of advice I’ve ever received is not to be afraid to say, “I don’t know,” as long as you follow it up with, “But I’ll find out,” and then follow through. That simple mindset has served me well. It builds trust, encourages growth, and helps you become more confident and capable over time. No one expects you to have all the answers, but they will respect your honesty, accountability, and willingness to learn.
Personal: Growing up, my mom always told me to “work hard and play harder,” and that mindset has stuck with me. I bring my full energy and dedication to everything I do professionally, but I also believe in living life to the fullest. Whether I’m cheering on my daughter at a volleyball match, shooting pool, exploring my creative side, or heading out on adventures with my family, I try to make the most of every moment. I really enjoyed the Riser’s Social at Jake’s Billiards where I was able to network and enjoy one of my favorite hobbies. It was such a fun and relaxed way to connect!
Ali Lamb
336-275-9421
ALamb@BibeyMachine.com
Randy Cobb, Davenport Energy, gives a thumbs up after he received his gift basket.
Lindy Fuller, Summit Credit Union (left), and Kathy Cates, Goodwill Industries and GMA volunteer, (right) deliver a basket to Judy Hernandez (center), Bernard Robinson & Company.
GMA members connect at networking events
Guilford Merchant Association members get a lot of chances to socialize and network (and eat!) every month. These networking events offer a fun, laidback atmosphere for members to meet new people and catch up with friends they’ve already made.
GMA members take a break from the sticker networking game to get a bite to eat at the July 24 Noontime Network at the Hilton Garden Inn (Airport) in Greensboro.
Julie Howe, Carolina Digital Phone (left) and Salem Owens, Rent-A-Home of the Triad, help check in members and guests at the July 24 Noontime Network at the Hilton Garden Inn (Airport) in Greensboro.
Maria Sollecito, Creative Productions, (left) and Karen Robertson, Hilton Garden Inn (right) share a laugh during the June 25 Meet & Eat at GMA’s office in Greensboro.
GMA staff members Colleen Biedny, membership coordinator, (left) and Sharon Smith, membership development, take a break to get their photo made with Gene Dolan, whose Culinary Visions Catering often prepares the food for GMA events. The trio posed for the photo during the Aug. 19 After Work Network at Doubletree by Hilton (Airport) in Greensboro.
Nikki Corbett, Precise Creative (left), and Mark Podolle, Wireless Ventures, grab some food during the June 25 Meet & Eat at GMA’s office in Greensboro.
Gerald Hutchinson, ActionCOACH, takes a selfie with Adrena Murdock, Sunbird Storage, at the Aug. 19 After Work Network at Doubletree by Hilton (Airport) in Greensboro.
When employees go on offense
BY MARK MOSER
Jane just received her second written warning for violating the attendance policy. Jane promptly files a charge with the company president that she is exposed to a hostile work environment.
BUSINESS SUCCESS
Hostile work environment, discrimination, harassment, and retaliation are just a few of the “power” words and phrases that employees sometimes toss around to try to insulate themselves from disciplinary action or termination. Since these words have an emotional connection to very real and very serious workplace behaviors, owners and managers are often confounded about how to handle these when it appears the charges are spurious. Here are some tips: Take the charge seriously. Don’t be dismissive, even if you are confident that the charge is simply a diversion. Thank the employee for bringing it to your attention and then investigate appropriately. Use a third party if you don’t have the internal resources to conduct the investigation.
Remind the employee of their continuing obligations. If you are
aware that the employee is under scrutiny for policy or performance issues, remind them that this investigation does not impact their susceptibility to disciplinary action per the company’s policies. For example, if they are subject to termination after X points per the attendance policy, they will still be terminated when they hit that mark, even if the investigation is still ongoing.
Keep solid documentation. The employee may claim you terminated them in retaliation for making the hostile environment charge. That is why it is necessary to be able to show that the investigation was fair, that termination was justified and, if anything, the employee’s charge was retaliation for being held accountable rather than vice-versa.
In short, take the charge seriously, but don’t treat it as a “get out of jail free” card. It is not.
Mark Moser is a principal with Davidson Group HR Solutions who specializes in stategic human resources for small and midsize firms. 336-314-8470 www.davidsongrouphr.com
Goodin,
GMA is a ‘good way to get your name out there’
Clark Goodin’s been a member of the Guilford Merchants Association for so long that he’s not exactly sure when he joined. It’s been since at least the 1990s, but could be the 1980s, he said.
He originally joined because his company, Plants and Answers florist shop, was providing and taking care of large floral arrangements at GMA’s offices downtown. The business is long established now, so networking isn’t as important as it was when he started. But he knows the value of a GMA membership.
“I think GMA has done a great job over the years, and I think it’s a good tool for the community to be involved in, especially if you’re new starting out,” said Goodin, who is co-owner of the corporation that includes Plants and Answers florist shop on West Market Street, a greenhouse and a landscaping business.
Goodin bought into the business in 1983, joining Larry Richardson, who is president of the company.
At the florist shop, they get flowers shipped in from all over — California, Holland, South America, to name a few places.
Goodin said flowers should last at least a week, and as long as 10 days, when people take them home. That’s because florists use special solutions to help perk up flowers after they’ve
LOYAL MEMBER
been stored for shipping.
“Flowers are not as finicky as you might think,” he said.
The florist shop is full of colorful arrangements and containers full of flowers waiting to be arranged. Over the years, Goodin has turned them into pretty much everything — cars, sorority shields, and one time, for a photographer, he fashioned a camera out of flowers.
At the greenhouse, they sell potted plants, like tropical foliage, as well as garden furniture and statues. The landscaping business creates and maintains container gardens for customers.
Throughout the years, Goodin has kept a GMA placard in the shop window.
“It’s an organization with a lot of members, and it’s a good way to get your name out there,” he said. “If you take advantage of everything they offer, I think it would really benefit you as a small business owner.”
Clark Goodin
336-274-8933
www.plantsandanswersflorist.com
Angela Coon, Equity Health, gets a 20-minute massage from Lydia with Kneaded Energy during the July 18 Free Day Friday.
Clark
co-owner of Plants and Answers, has been a GMA member for decades. He said GMA is “a good tool for the community,” especially for new small business owners.
Moser
