GWINNETT MAGAZINE - WINTER 2024

The jubilant pursuit of health, wealth and happiness!

MAGAZINE

GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Teacher Year OF THE

JENNA CLONINGER

Gwinnett Chamber - NAMED Chamber OF THE Year!

Wow!

GWINNETT CHAMBER GETS NEW DIGS!

FULL PAGE AD NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL

GWINNETTMAGAZINE.com

CELEBRATING MORE IN 2024 Embracing more joy, more unity, more kindness, and more success for all.

W

elcome to the bright and promising year of 2024! It’s a fresh start, a clean slate, and a chance to make every day count. As a lifelong resident of Gwinnett, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement and optimism for what lies ahead.

In the spirit of new beginnings, let’s take a moment to reflect on what “more” means to us this year. What are we seeking?

I BELIEVE THAT “MORE” IN 2024 SHOULD BE ABOUT CELEBRATING OUR SUCCESSES, BIG AND SMALL, AND SPREADING POSITIVITY IN OUR BELOVED GWINNETT COMMUNITY. What do we aspire to achieve? Personally, I believe that “more” in 2024 should be about celebrating our successes, big and small, and spreading positivity in our beloved Gwinnett community.

One of the things I’d love to see more of in 2024 is the celebration of victories, like that of this year’s Teacher of the Year, Sue Smith. Sue’s dedication to her students is a shining example of the difference one person can make in our community. And speaking of recognition, let’s not forget the winners of the recent Gwinnett Chamber Small Business awards. Their hard work and unwavering focus have paved the way

for success, proving that determination truly pays off.

Over at our cherished Chamber, there’s a buzz of excitement. New faces, new ideas, and the long-awaited reopening of the newly remodeled Chamber building are all signs of growth and progress. It takes visionaries to undertake such transformations, ensuring that the programs and services the Chamber provides remain relevant and beneficial to us all.

Everywhere I turn, I see reasons for hope and promise. Our local cities are working tirelessly on economic development plans that will shape our future for the better.

Yes, Gwinnett has changed over the years, and change isn’t always easy, but together, we have the power to influence our communities and strive for improvement in every facet of our lives.

And let’s not forget that 2024 is an election year. It presents us with numerous opportunities to get involved, make a difference, and have our voices heard. It’s a chance to shape the path our community takes and ensure that our values and visions are represented.

So, here’s to “more” in 2024! More joy, more peace, more kindness, and more success for all. Let’s embrace the spirit of unity and progress, and together, we can make this year one to remember.

Wishing you all a fantastic 2024 filled with warmth, positivity, and an abundance of good vibes!

With heartfelt optimism, Sincerely,

David Greer, Publisher

David@GwinnettMagazine.com

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CONTENTS GWINNETT MAGAZINE

WINTER 2024

44

CHAMBER OF THE YEAR

The Gwinnett Chamber was honored with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) ‘Chamber of the Year’ Award

4GWINNETT CHAMBER

42 NEW CHAMBER

21

45

JOIN BUTTON, YOUR TOUR GUIDE, AS YOU EXPLORE THE HEART OF GWINNETT

NICK MASINO

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

GWINNETT CITIES

GWINNETT CHAMBER RENOVATES THEIR SPACE

LEADERS & LEGENDS

38

52

SPOTLIGHTING THE COMMUNITY ALL STARS THAT HELP THE ECONOMY THRIVE

RICHARD TUCKER

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

40 GWINNETT CHAMBER’S

50

ANNUAL DINNER

TEACHER OF THE YEAR

THE UNDERSEA WORLD OF JENNA CLONINGER

LEADERS & LEGENDS

58 LEADERS & LEGENDS BILL RUSSELL

64

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE NICOLE L. HENDRICKSON

GWINNETT MAGAZINE / WINTER 2024

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GWINNETTMAGAZINE.com

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR

2023 SPONSORS CORPORATE SPONSORS

PARTNER SPONSORS

LEADING BOOTH SPONSORS

4 WINTER 2024 / GWINNETT MAGAZINE

2023

RISK-TAKERS. PROBLEM SOLVERS. THE DREAMERS AND THE DOERS. Not for the faint of heart, being a small business owner is a bold feat. Now, more than ever, it is critical that we celebrate those who are up to the challenge. The Gwinnett Chamber Small Business Awards do just that, by showcasing those that dare to start, sustain and succeed and the community that supports them.

GWINNETTMAGAZINE.com

2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

CULTURE CREATOR AWARD WINNER ECLIPSE GAMING SYSTEMS

TIM MINARD, CEO Creating a company culture is not just for large corporations. This small business is intentional by investing in the development and wellbeing of its employees. Since 2008, this year’s Culture Creator has placed a special focus on the Native American gaming markets as well as commercial and international gaming markets. With the mission of “Going Beyond The Game”, Eclipse Gaming Systems leadership team actively invests in each employee by providing on-going training and development year-round. Eclipse Gaming Systems offers its nearly 70 staff members competitive salaries, excellent benefits, a safe workplace, work from home flexibility, and all the tools and training necessary for advancement within the company.

Employees are regularly rewarded with bonuses and often recognized for their achievements, from the 2023 Global Gaming Awards to the 40 Under 40 Emerging Leaders in Gaming. Eclipse employees regularly go beyond the game by supporting the metro Atlanta and Gwinnett community through volunteerism and charitable financial contributions.

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2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

MINORITY/WOMAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS AWARD WINNER SAGE BUSINESS COUNSEL

DANIELLE HUDSON-LAUGHLIN FOUNDER AND CEO

This award recognizes a minority-owned and/or woman-owned organization that exhibits excellence and best business practices. This year’s winner is a woman-owned small business that embodies the motto “Where Legacy Thrives.” Danielle Hudson-Laughlin started SAGE Business Counsel as a single mom, operating as its sole owner. The goal of SAGE is to help companies stay in business longer by providing tailored legal solutions that keep them going without unnecessary risks. SAGE Business Counsel has evolved over the years and attributes their success to harnessing the core value of GROWTH as the heartbeat of their company’s evolution. Through growth, SAGE Business Counsel has managed to stay ahead of the curve by continuously assessing market trends, emerging technologies, and client demands. Their mission is not only to provide legal counsel but to be a catalyst for positive change within the legal industry, empowering businesses and fostering a culture of success.

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2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTOR AWARD WINNER SINGLE PARENTS ALLIANCE & RESOURCE CENTER (SPARC)

JOY MONROE FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

The Community Contributor award pays tribute to an organization that, although small, makes a big difference in the lives of others. This year’s winner is an organization whose mission is to empower and equip single parents with the necessary tools, resources, and support to create a healthy home. Through their motelto-home program, Single Parents Alliance & Resource Center, or SPARC, provides funding to homeless families living in extended-stay motels and supports transition into apartments of their own. They also have a financial achievement club where they work with families on their finances, savings and credit health. Book Buddies and SPARC kids’ academy engage the kids in this process offering a literacy program and a free after school program, respectively.

In addition to the programs mentioned, SPARC offers ongoing parenting support groups for single parents. All of SPARC’s programs are designed to ensure the community is inhabited with healthy, stable single parents.

2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

LAUNCH AWARD WINNER SUGARLOAF WELLNESS CENTER

DR. DAVID KUNZ FOUNDER

The Launch Award honors a business that began no more than two years ago. This year’s Launch Award goes to an organization that emphasizes taking care of the whole person - body, soul, and spirit. As a family doctor for 36 years, Dr. David Kunz (KOO-nz) created Sugarloaf Wellness Center to help patients consistently live healthier and happier lives. An extension of Perisseia Primary Care, Sugarloaf Wellness Center goes beyond mainstream traditional medicine by offering a number of holistic and aesthetic services including bio-identical hormone replacement therapy, laser hair removal, Botox, and more.

Over the years, Dr. Kunz and his staff have established a reputation for listening, caring and finding answers to patients’ health problems and questions, where others could not. Sugarloaf Wellness Center is known for its hospitality and care on a personal level for every patient and has successfully “launched” a space dedicated to the total well-being of Gwinnett’s residents.

2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

FOUNDER AWARD WINNER SIMPLE FLOORS

BIN LIU FOUNDER AND CEO

The recipient of this award started small but thought big. Founded in 2005, this year’s winner takes pride in her ability to consistently deliver high quality material and installation solutions.

Bin Liu started SimpleFloors as a way to have financial independence and give back to her community. Bin was not afraid of the hard work and learned early that being successful requires a strong foundation. SimpleFloors now has six locations across the United States. Over the years, Bin has learned to adapt to the changes that come with growth in order to be successful.

She prides herself on the work her team produces and continuously attends grand openings of her clients, walking through their spaces to ensure everything was done to standard. When Bin is not running her successful company, she serves on several boards and volunteers when the opportunity presents itself.

2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD (0-5 EMPLOYEE CATEGORY)

WINNER BRING THE CREW

KANDI TODD OWNER

Founded in 2016, this year’s winner provides planning, logistics, and strategy management of residential insurance related property claims.

Bring The Crew’s mission is to ensure that homeowners who are not familiar with contractual jargon are able to complete the claims process efficiently and correctly. They specialize in claims for household renovations, structural drying mold remediation, and water extractions. Owner Kandi Todd says failure is not an option. Bring the Crew has fought through difficult times and even had to compromise on what products they offer whenever economic elements impacted their existing list of services. But they make these decisions in the spirit of their company’s mission and have created a long list of raving fans as a result.

2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD (6-24 EMPLOYEE CATEGORY)

WINNER TEAM RYAN AUTOMOTIVE

SHARA RYAN OWNER

In 2015, Dan Ryan and his wife Shara built Team Ryan Automotive, a kitchen-table conversation that turned into an automotive service and repair business. Their goal is to provide customers with expert advice and empower them to make tailored decisions based on needs and budget. Team Ryan Automotive was built with five core values in mind: fortitude, adaptability, discipline, continuous growth, and consistency.

Their mission is to enrich the lives of everyone around them through meaningful conversation, education, and compassion. Dan and his wife pride themselves on the business and team they have built while being steadfast and honest every step of the way. Their daily commitment to customer service embodies their motto to be the auto repair shop “You Can Trust!”

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2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD (25 OR MORE EMPLOYEE CATEGORY)

WINNER NEMA, INC.

COLLEEN JAPUNTICH PRESIDENT

Founded in 1988, this year’s winner has maintained its success by doing everything organically and according to the needs of their customers. NEMA, Inc. is an asset-based logistics and warehousing company in Duluth. NEMA provides trucking, warehousing, and importation and exportation of ocean containers and air freight. One of the biggest benefits NEMA can offer any business that imports products is its Foreign Trade Zone designation. A Foreign Trade Zone – or FTZ – is a location where imports can be stored domestically without paying customs duties until the product is needed. Their mission is to provide exceptional service and a seamless supply chain for their customers. NEMA exhibits staying power by continuing to have their customers, employees, and end users at the heart of everything they do to ensure satisfaction and quality of service at every step.

GWINNETT MAGAZINE / SUMMER 2023

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GWINNETTMAGAZINE.com

2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

SUPPORT SYSTEM AWARD WINNER GWINNETT ENTREPRENEUR CENTER

MARK FARMER

GWINNETT COUNTY GOV, DEP. DIVISION DIRECTOR, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The success of a small business is often dependent on the ecosystem that it is surrounded by. This designation honors an organization that strengthens the community’s small business environment. This year’s Support System winner is an organization whose sole purpose is to support entrepreneurs and small businesses. Sponsored by Gwinnett County Government and located in downtown Lawrenceville, the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center is a regional education institute for entrepreneurs and small business owners as well as a business incubator. The center provides education offerings including classes, workshops, peer discussion groups, and one-on-one coaching, most of which are at no charge. The incubation support is an intensive program designed to move businesses through start-up or growth-development, utilizing customized graduation plans. As a small business community, the Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center understands the need for having a place where questions can be answered, support can be provided, and growth can be achieved in Gwinnett’s vibrantly connected county.

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2023 GWINNETT CHAMBER

SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS

EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR AWARD WINNER GEORGIA FIRST GENERATION FOUNDATION

CHARBEL AOUN FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

That Emerging Entrepreneur Award celebrates a young professional, under 40 years old, who is shaking up the small business space. This year’s emerging entrepreneur winner started his business with the desire to make a lasting impact in his community. As a first-generation student himself, Charbel Aoun created Georgia FirstGen with the intention of addressing the unique challenges first-generation students face.

Charbel is committed to empowering fellow students with educational resources, mentorship, and support.

Since its inception, Georgia FirstGen has organized over 75 educational events, meetings, and conferences with speakers across Georgia, strengthening student participation by over 90%. In addition to his full-time job, Charbel volunteers on the Gwinnett Young Professionals Board of Directors and was recently named to Georgia Trend’s 40-Under-40 Metro Atlanta Leaders. His photo graced the cover of this statewide publication issued in September, making him an icon for successful emerging entrepreneurs from Columbus to Savannah, and Valdosta to Atlanta.

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GWINNETTMAGAZINE.com

2023

FINALISTS

SELECTING THE WINNERS from this extraordinary lineup of finalists proved to be an arduous task. Each nominee, be it a thriving business or a community-focused organization, stood out for its exceptional contributions. The depth of impact and dedication displayed by these finalists was nothing short of inspiring. In a sea of excellence, these nominees truly embody the essence of distinction, making the decision-making process both challenging and awe-inspiring.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS YEAR’S FINALISTS!

COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTOR AWARD E2E BENEFITS SERVICES ECLIPSE GAMING SYSTEMS FREEDOM PATH COUNSELING GLOBAL PAINT FOR CHARITY, INC. GOOD SAMARITAN HEALTH CENTERS OF GWINNETT GREEN FINANCIAL RESOURCES, LLC GWINNETT CHATT OUTREACH GWINNETT COALITION, INC. HB CONSULTING CO HI-HOPE SERVICE CENTER, INC. MANNA SCHOLARSHIP FUND, INC.

NAVIGATE RECOVERY GWINNETT TADEO & SILVA LAW THE PARTNERSHIP AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, INC. PORTER STEEL, INC. RARE STRIDES RARE WISH REKLAYME HEALTH AND WELLNESS SPARC (SINGLE PARENT ALLIANCE & RESOURCE CENTER, INC.) SPECIAL NEEDS SCHOOLS OF GWINNETT SPECTRUM AUTISM SUPPORT GROUP STREETWISE GEORGIA

MINORITY-OWNED/WOMAN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESS AWARD AASIYA MUSLIM, LASHONIA TURNER AND MARISA KING SCRUM-DID-DLY-UMP-TIOUS ANN-CAROL PENCE AND KATIE PELKEY – AURORA THEATRE ANGELIA WHITE – ALW TAX & FINANCIAL SERVICES CELESTE GIORDANO – CELESTE GIORDANO CONSULTING CHANTEL COHEN – CWC COACHING & THERAPY DANIELLE HUDSON-LAUGHLIN – SAGE BUSINESS COUNSEL DEZIRAE HATCHELL – HEALTHY MINDS FOR HEALTHY HOMES GENIE BURNETT – MANNA SCHOLARSHIP FUND, INC. IMRAN NIAZI – BLACKWATER CONSTRUCTION GROUP, LLC JEIMY ARIAS – LEAD WITH COACH JEIMY, LLC JENNIFER DELOACH – THE DELOACH LAW PRACTICE, LLC KAREN QUINTANILLA – KING OF KINGS TAX & ACCOUNTING FIRM

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LINDA OCTAVIEN – REKLAYME HEALTH AND WELLNESS LINNEA MILLER – LONG TABLE, LLC LUCY MEJIA – THE JUNKLUGGERS OF ATLANTA METRO EAST MARZENA TRAWINSKI – MAIN STREET REALTY GROUP MELISSA GUNDERSON – MORSELS BY MELISSA NANCY MCGILL – CARTRIDGE WORLD LAWRENCEVILLE NATHALY LOAIZA – CAL INDUSTRIES HEAT AND AIR OLIVIA AMYETTE – INFINITE ENERGY ADVISORS OSSIEREEN JONES – REJOICE CHRISTIAN BOOKS AND GIFT SHOP, LLC TINA WOODARD – CAPSTONE PERFORMANCE SOLUTIONS, INC. TRENA MYERS – RARE WISH

EMERGING ENTREPRENEUR AWARD

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD (0 – 5 EMPLOYEES)

CHARBEL AOUN – GEORGIA FIRST GENERATION FOUNDATION FREDDIE HART – FRHART2 ENTERPRISES HEATHER BELLEW – HB CONSULTING CO JUAN MEJIA – JCM VENTURES KENNEDY PATTERSON – K.L.P. ENTERTAINMENT MELISSA PEÑATE – PEÑATE CONSULTING, LLC OLIVIA AMYETTE – INFINITE ENERGY ADVISORS

BOBBY’S SHINE SHOP MOBILE CAR WASH BRING THE CREW BUSINESS RADIOX G RAGSDALE BUILDERS LILLIES BOUTIQUERS

SUPPORT SYSTEM AWARD BUSINESS RADIOX COMCAST BUSINESS ECLIPSE GAMING SYSTEMS GWINNETT ENTREPRENEUR CENTER HR PARTNERS, INC. NEW YORK LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

CULTURE CREATOR AWARD AARON OVERHEAD DOORS AURORA THEATRE, INC. BRING THE CREW, INC. BUDGET BLINDS OF DULUTH AND CENTRAL GWINNETT ECLIPSE GAMING SYSTEMS GREEN FINANCIAL RESOURCES, LLC INTEGRICOM, INC. NEMA, INC. OFFICE CREATIONS RUDHIL COMPANIES SUMITOMO (SHI) DEMAG PLASTICS MACHINERY

LAUNCH AWARD BB WATKINS AGENCY – STATE FARM SUGARLOAF WELLNESS CENTER LILLIES BOUTIQUE MOBILITY CITY OF LAWRENCEVILLE ON-SITE RESULTS LABORATORY RARE WISH THE SUGARCANE FACTORY STOREEASE

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD (6 – 24 EMPLOYEES) EARTHWISE PET HAMILTON RIDGE EMERT & YEOM, LLC GREEN FINANCIAL RESOURCES, LLC SAGE BUSINESS COUNSEL TEAM RYAN AUTOMOTIVE

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD (25+ EMPLOYEES) BRITT’S HOME FURNISHINGS, INC. ECLIPSE GAMING SYSTEMS GEORGIA BANKING COMPANY LUCKIE & CO. NEMA, INC.

FOUNDER AWARD BIN LIU – SIMPLEFLOORS, INC CHAD GAFFNEY – EMPIRE CONTRACTING, LLC CHRISSY THOMAS – ABOUT FACE SKIN CARE DEIRDRA COX – COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY ENTERPRISE DON ANSLEY – ACG SOLUTIONS GENIE BURNETT – MANNA SCHOLARSHIP FUND, INC. KANDI TODD – BRING THE CREW KIRK HALPERN – FARMERS & FISHERMEN PURVEYORS MATTHEW HUNT – C2H AIR & ELECTRIC RAYMER SALE, JR. – RED, BLUE & YOU, LLC

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18 WINTER 2024 / GWINNETT MAGAZINE

HI! THE NAME IS BUTTON

Hoot, Hoot, Hello! Ready to explore the unique charm of each Gwinnett city? Buckle up, my feathered friends, because I’m taking you on a journey through the heart of our beloved county! My name is Button!

Explorer. Navigator. Scholar. Storyteller. Occasional joke teller and sharer of owl wisdom. That’s me! I’m here to be your trusty tour guide.

Buford’s charming Main Street is a real hoot, with its cozy shops and friendly locals. Suwanee’s lively Town Center is like a vibrant melody, buzzing with excitement and community spirit. Ah, Lawrenceville’s iconic courthouse stands tall, a true symbol of our history and character. Norcross’s historic train depot? Well, that’s a favorite stop for locals and visitors alike, filled with tales from the rails.

In Sugar Hill, there’s The Bowl, a place where the community gathers for fun and festivities. Duluth’s Town Green is a masterpiece of greenery and shared moments, and Berkeley Lake’s serene lake adds a touch of tranquility to our bustling county.

Each city in Gwinnett has its own unique subculture, a special expression of what makes it shine. So, whether you’re strolling down Main Street, enjoying the lively Town Center, or taking in the historic sights, each city has its own distinct charm waiting to be discovered.

So, my friends, let’s soar through Gwinnett’s cities together and uncover the hidden gems that make each one a true treasure! #LoveOurCities #LoveGwinnett

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GWINNETTMAGAZINE.com BUTT ON'S GUIDE to GWINNETT

Auburn is known for a familyfriendly atmosphere reflected in events like its annual Auburn Ever After, Auburn Fest, weekly farmer’s markets and movies in Whistlestop Park – a unique shopping district. The city has five beautiful parks and a family sports complex. On the economic front, Auburn is a certified Main Street Community, has an active Downtown Development Authority and welcomes new businesses with incentives through its Opportunity Zone.

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BIG RED CABOOSE. Take a photo with the Big Red Caboose. Stop by the whistlestop shops and visit the “Trainmaster” store (a shop for model train enthusiasts) and grab a souvenir, toy, or train whistle to remember the day!

BUTTON'S GUIDE to GWINNETT

A small, tenacious core of residents has always been devoted to the care and health of the lake and has kept the city’s namesake first and foremost in this Gwinnett city. Berkeley Lake residents have acted consistently to protect the character and tranquility of the community and are guided by a comprehensive Master Plan for future land use and growth.

Just last year, the city was named among the Top 10 Best Suburbs to Live in Georgia. The Berkeley Lake Chapel, City Hall and surrounding grounds and green space are popular gathering places for residents and the locale for events like the Sunday Kind of Groove Concert Series and the annual Independence Day Celebration.

IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR NEW NESTING GROUNDS, you couldn’t find a better spot. Neighborhoods are what they are known for.

Berkeley Lake is often voted best place to live, best place to raise a family in Georgia and provides a calm and beautiful oasis wedged between Duluth and Peachtree Corners. Not to mention the lake, the trees and greenspace, which make it perfect for families.

Buford is a city that has it all – from a charming main street with retailers and restaurants to the Mall of Georgia, one of the Southeast’s go-to shopping destinations.

The Buford Dam is a major power source for the state and Lake Lanier Islands is recognized as a premier recreation development... and a favorite summer-day destination for Gwinnettians. The Buford Community Center is another jewel for the city – including a theater, conference center and meeting space, the Buford Museum, and the popular Town Park that hosts entertainment for all ages.

DID YOU

KNOW? • Population ± 18,128

• Mall of Georgia was built in 1999

• Whose statue is located on West Main Street? Roy Rogers, whose horse Trigger had a saddle made at Buford’s famous Bona Allen Tanners.

BUTTON'S GUIDE to GWINNETT

Driving north on I-85, you know you’re in Braselton when the stunning vineyard of Château Élan Winery & Resort rises into view. The resort has set the tone for top-quality development, which can be seen in every detail of the surrounding town. People are flocking to Braselton, because they can find beautiful neighborhoods tucked into the countryside with access to major state highways, a thriving medical community, walking trails, restaurants and a historic downtown.

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FEW GOLF DESTINATIONS possess the beauty of Chateau Elan Golf Club’s 45 holes of championship golf. From the rolling Georgia hills of the Woodlands greens to the serene valley lakes that distinguish the Chateau’s fairways.

Dacula provides a unique small-town experience to residents and visitors alike and prides itself on being an inclusive community. Dacula’s location provides residents many advantages, particularly for employment and education opportunities. In fact, Dacula is located at the center of Georgia’s Innovation Crescent, a 15-county economic development hub focused on life sciences and technology that includes Gwinnett!

LOCALS LOVE. Brunch Apothecary & TradeWind Coffee Co. offer a break from franchise breakfast menus. Wild Wednesday at Dacula’s Stars & Strikes offers bowling for $1.99 a game!

DID YOU

KNOW? • Population ± 31,873

• The Railroad has been in Duluth since 1871

• Georgia’s first female mayor was elected in Duluth in 1922, Mayor Alice Harrell Strickland

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Looking for a unique, international dining experience? Duluth’s got it! With more than 200 bars & restaurants city-wide, choices are endless.

The area is popular for its diversity and modernization.

Duluth has developed its Town Green and Parsons Alley area into a hub for shopping, dining and entertainment.

With sidewalks and a bikeway that connect all areas of the city, Duluth residents can enjoy everything from Food Truck Friday to Yoga on the Green. There’s always a perfect outing, interactive installation, or opportunity for art. The Hudgens Center for Art & Learning makes sure the arts scene is only a brushstroke away. Duluth leaders are committed to offering residents the best of big-city amenities coupled with small-town ambiance.

Today, Grayson is a sought-after address, a city with loads of Southern charm and livability. In fact, the city has received a Live, Work, Play City Award presented by the Georgia Municipal Association. Grayson gets high marks for excellent schools, parks, restaurants and shopping. With the town’s Ampavilion, Grayson hosts the Peace, Love, Grayson Benefit Concert, Moonshiner’s Music Fest and a number of family- friendly community events throughout the year, including, free concerts, movies, Fitness in the Park and more.

GRAYSON IS GROWING! The Newer Downtown Community is growing, but timely favorites like Beren’s Frozen Custard are still staples to the area! Don’t forget about the clock tower, the bell symbolizes the traditional call of community.

BUTTON'S GUIDE to GWINNETT

Today, Old Town Lilburn is a growing downtown neighborhood that reflects small town charm with tree-lined streets and sidewalks.

Downtown development is thriving as businesses and homes are springing up, and nearby Lilburn City Park is the site of endless community activities and the start of the fourmile Camp Creek Greenway Trail. Named for the railroad superintendent for the Seaboard Air Line Railroad, Lilburn Trigg Myers, the city’s development was rooted in the railroad and trains still run hourly through Old Town!

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BAPS IS A ONE OF A KIND TOURIST DESTINATION! The Bochasanwasi Akshar Purushottam Swaminarayan is a Hindu denomination within the Swaminarayan Sampradaya. It’s a gorgeous place to see, as long as you are respectful during your visit!

Loganville’s city limits are split between Gwinnett and Walton counties. (We don’t mind sharing!) James Harvie Logan purchased the original 62.5 acres of this city for only $150. The town “Where People Matter” couples growth and progress with a warm community atmosphere. The Loganville Town Green draws folks to the city center for a busy calendar of events that includes AutumnFest, the Groovin’ on the Green concert series, an annual Tree Lighting and Christmas Parade!

DID YOU

KNOW? • Population ± 13,000

• The original lot was Land Lot No. 186

• Loganville was first incorporated in 1887, and around the turn of the century would become the last stop on the railroad from Atlanta to Lawrenceville.

BUTTON'S GUIDE to GWINNETT

Lawrenceville’s downtown, referred to as The DTL, continues to grow and develop as a destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment – and more than a few film and TV productions.

This vibrant area includes the Historic Square, The Lawrenceville Lawn, and the Depot District surrounded by copious amounts of free parking, new housing, and locally owned businesses that hold true to their historic design. With high-quality venues, including the new Lawrenceville Arts Center, The Lawn, local restaurants and breweries, and even Coolray Field, there’s something for everyone in all stages of life to enjoy.

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DID YOU

KNOW? • Population ± 32,952

• Lawrenceville is home to Gwinnett County’s only airport: Gwinnett County Airport at Briscoe Field

CITIES

With a rich variety of wellpreserved historic homes and an authentic turn-of-the-century downtown district, Norcross leaders have sought to blend old and new with great vision. Once known as “Atlanta’s Favorite Summer Resort,” Norcross was named for Jonathan Norcross, Atlanta’s fourth mayor. The historic downtown area is full of shopping, dining and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike.

The Norcross Downtown Development Authority is focused on fostering a strong and progressive business climate.

GETTING OUT IN NATURE. Thrasher Park and Lillian Webb Park are the site of scores of family events. There’s even a Norcross Walking Group for residents with a pep in their step.

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Though Peachtree Corners is young as an official city, it is steeped in a history of technology. The community was initially planned in the late 1960s and 70s by businessman Paul Duke, who envisioned a place where residents could live, work and play by creating Metro Atlanta’s first technology park. Now Gwinnett County’s largest city, Peachtree Corners continues to emphasize technological innovation with Curiosity Lab, a city-owned and operated living lab designed to advance intelligent mobility and smart city technology. It’s setting the blueprint for smart cities across the United States, and having a zero-millage rate, the city offers a business-friendly environment while maintaining an exceptional quality of life standard for residents.

DID YOU

KNOW? • Population ± 43,905

• Incorporated in 2012, Peachtree Corners is Gwinnett’s youngest city.

• Town Center is a 21-acre mixed use development unveiled in April 2019 and serves as a downtown for the city.

“Where Everybody’s Proud to be Somebody,” is echoed throughout Snellville. A city whose roots extend back to 19th century London, it’s a fast-growing town at the intersection of the U.S. Highway 78 and Georgia 124. Muscogee Natives were the original settlers of Snellville, termed the “Creeks” by settlers as they lived along the waterways. When English friends Thomas Snell and James Sawyer planned a voyage to the New World, they had no idea they would be critical in the founding of one of Gwinnett’s great cities. Snellville officially received its charter in 1923, about 50 years later. Now, The Grove at Town Center is the planned vision of a renewed future where Snellville is a leading force in the Gwinnett County Community. With thousands of square feet for office and retail space, it’s easy to get excited about the city’s future.

DID YOU

KNOW? • Population 20,753

• The city’s slogan used to be “Everybody’s Somebody”

• Snellville could have been called “New London”, it was actually campaigned for by some in the 1970’s!

The thriving city is poised for a bright future while keeping a deep-rooted appreciation for the past.

City leaders and residents alike are focused on building for the future in Sugar Hill. The city already has lots of positive livability factors – a great city hall, a unique community plaza, a splash park, great parks, a community garden, a performing arts theatre, and the award-winning outdoor amphitheater The Bowl at Sugar Hill. You knew there had to be a “sweet” story behind the naming of Sugar Hill. (Oh yeah, we’re going there.) Local legend says that a freight wagon traveling from the railroad in Buford to Cumming broke a wheel while traversing a steep hill, spilling sugar over one of the highest points in Gwinnett County. From a sleepy bedroom community to a vibrant and quaint downtown, there’s always something fun to see and do in Sugar Hill.

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DID YOU

KNOW? • Population ± 26,246

• The beautiful mural in the downtown area depicts the rich and colorful history of Sugar Hill and an active historic preservation society tells the story of this growing community’s past!

Suwanee is a progressive, friendly community known for preserving greenspace and creating new parks. The city has more than 500 acres of parkland and miles of walking and biking trails, including Suwanee Town Center and the Suwanee Creek Greenway. Today, Suwanee has been recognized by several national publications as “best place” to live and raise families. There are hundreds of community events every year!

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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

ALL STARS

FANS OF THE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SCENE know that the secret sauce turning Gwinnett into the success hub it has become boils down to the people charged with making the magic happen! Think of these folks as the all stars of “economic development.” Their efforts span across the county, business organizations and the cities. Their ongoing mission is to create more jobs, make sure people earn more money, and improve life for everyone that calls Gwinnett home. That involves bringing in new businesses, helping existing ones, improving schools, and making it easier for companies to do well.

MARK FARMER

Gwinnett County Gov Economic Development & Small Business

ANDREW HICKEY

Partnership Gwinnett Director

HERE ARE JUST A FEW FOLKS ON THE FRONT LINES WE CAN THANK!

DEVEN CASON

Partnership Gwinnett Vice President of Economic Development

AUTUMN ANDREWS

Partnership Gwinnett Workforce Programs Manager

BARRY MOCK

Lawrenceville Assistant City Manager, Community Development

PAUL RADFORD Sugar Hill City Manager

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KENDYL LEWIS

Partnership Gwinnett Manager of Research and Community Development

AMY PINNELL

MARLENE M. FOSQUE

Braselton Economic Development and Downtown Director

WILLIAM CORBIN

Norcross Economic Development Director

MARTY ALLEN Suwanee Economic City Manager

Gwinnett Chamber Vice President of Economic Development

BRITTNI NIX

JENNIFER HOWARD

MATTHEW PEPPER

CHRIS MCGAHEE

Dacula City Administrator

Peachtree Corners Economic Development Manager

Snellville City Manager

Duluth Director of Economic Development and Marketing

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Gwinnett Chamber

PRESENTED BY

NORTHSIDE HOSPITAL GWINNETT • DULUTH

THE GWINNETT CHAMBER’S ANNUAL DINNER IS THE PREMIER CELEBRATION OF GWINNETT’S COMMUNITY SERVANTS, CORPORATE CITIZENS AND COMPASSIONATE ORGANIZATIONS SURE TO LEAVE A LEGACY. ——

Longtime Georgia Department of Transportation Board member Rudy Bowen received the Citizen of the Year Award. Alongside him, other outstanding individuals were recognized: Public Service Award recipients were Deirdra Cox, Ron Garrard, Veronica Maldonado-Torres, Dr. Uday Parikh, and Linda Schoepf. R. Wayne Shackelford Legacy Award was awarded to Thomas D. Moreland. The organization Moneypenny won the James J. Maran International Award. And the D. Scott Hudgens Humanitarian Award went to Because One Matters.

The event, presented by Northside Hospital, celebrated these exemplary individuals for their amazing contributions.

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THE 76TH ANNUAL DINNER HONOREES CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

RUDY BOWEN PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD

DEIRDRA COX

RON GARRARD

Community Sustainability Enterprise

Garrard Construction Group

VERONICA MALDONADO-TORRES

THOMAS D. MORELAND

JAMES J. MARAN INTERNATIONAL AWARD

Dentistry 4 You

Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

R. WAYNE SHACKELFORD LEGACY AWARD

DOROTHY L. RAINEY

DR. UDAY PARIKH

AMBASSADOR OF THE YEAR AWARD

LINDA SCHOEPF

The Junkluggers of Atlanta Metro East

D. SCOTT HUDGENS HUMANITARIAN AWARDAWARDA

LINDA SCHOEPF

ABS/LMS Franchising Little Caesars

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NEW YEAR

NEW OPPORTUNITY

NEW CHAMBER G

business environment, celebrating Gwinnett’s diverse ET READY for transformative changes in 2024! business scene. Since 1947, the Chamber has been The Gwinnett Chamber has invested $5.4 a fundamental pillar in the county’s development, million in a renovation that signifies a period supporting small businesses (90% of its 2,000+ of growth and innovation. This overhaul is not just members have 50 employees or less) and advocating cosmetic; it demonstrates a commitment to fostering for local enterprises. a diverse and dynamic business community. The As the fastest growing county in Metro Atlanta, 3-story building, constructed in the early 2000s, is Gwinnett is a vibrant hub for culture and economy. undergoing modernization with cutting-edge design, T he Chamber’s role new meeting rooms, statein fostering economic of-the-art AV equipment, development, supporting and symbolic elements OUR GOAL WITH ITS RENOVATION d ive r s e ente r pr i s e s , like a spiraling chandelier 20 YEARS LATER IS TO PRESERVE and advocating for the reflecting the Chamber’s TH E V I S I O N A N D LEGAC Y community’s best interests pinwheel logo.

ESTABLISHED WITH THE FACILITY’S remains crucial. Joining Gwinnett Chamber the Gwinnett Chamber President and CEO Nick INITIAL CONSTRUCTION WHILE offers access to amenities, Masino emphasizes that MODERNIZING THE SPACE TO networking opportunities, the Chamber is a force SERVE BUSINESS LEADERS FOR professional development, for economic growth and GENERATIONS TO COME.” a nd a pl at for m for community development. advocacy. As Gwinnett “T he la rgest loca l - PRESIDENT AND CEO NICK MASINO Cou nt y evolves, t he Chamber of Commerce Chamber remains a steadfast ally to businesses building, our facility was built in 2000 under the of all sizes, inviting you to witness and shape the leadership of former President and CEO Richard vibrant and inclusive future of Gwinnett’s business Tucker,” shared Masino. “Our goal with its renovation landscape. There’s never been a better time to join 20 years later is to preserve the vision and legacy the Chamber and maximize your opportunity established with the facility’s initial construction for growth. For information on how to engage, while modernizing the space to serve business Chamber staff are ready and willing to serve you. leaders for generations to come.” The renovated space Visit GwinnettChamber.org today. embodies a promise to create a vibrant and inclusive

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CHAMBER

OF THE YEAR THE GWINNETT CHAMBER was honored with the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) ‘Chamber of the Year’ designation at the annual ACCE conference in Salt Lake City. It’s the first time the Gwinnett Chamber has received this honor, making it one of only two times in the organization’s history as a finalist.

“We are honored and humbled to have been named this year’s Chamber of the Year by our industry peers,” said Nick Masino, President and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber and

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Partnership Gwinnett. “We also want to recognize the numerous members, investors, partners, and community leaders who contributed to this achievement and say thank you for working with us to champion business to national and global recognition.”

Gwinnett Chamber executives attribute the success to Georgia’s best-in-class business environment. Governor Brian Kemp commended the Gwinnett Chamber for playing a key role in maintaining Georgia as the No. 1 state for business.

NICK

MASINO

Ask Nick Masino about the importance of human connection.

Masino – a man to whom conversation seems as natural as the next breath, who strings words together with effortless aplomb, who assembles spoken sentences and paragraphs, hands gesturing in vigorous punctuation all the while – will get to the point soon enough.

In the meantime, enjoy the ride, because Masino is a conversational force of nature. He is a tradesman at the top of his game as he locks eyes on yours. He is an artisan at work as he leans toward the listener, agreeably smiling, nodding and making each point – aligning the ideas, fleshing out the foundations, until the words are all but physically manifested in the space between you.

Now, what was the question you were going to ask? Right … the importance of human connection.

Should be easy enough for him to answer.

Connection is Masino’s craft, and he is a master.

It’s a fitting skill for someone who’s been head honcho of one of the continent’s largest suburban chambers of commerce since 2019. It’s an ideal talent for someone who for 12 years was chief economic development officer for Partnership Gwinnett – overseeing business recruitment and retention for Gwinnett. The current and previous posts left little room for someone who couldn’t hack it in any given boardroom with world-class CEOs seated across the table.

Social skills are essential in Masino’s line of work, and he comes by them honest.

His father, Joe Masino, was an AnheuserBusch executive, to whom “nobody was a stranger.”

“He would meet anybody and talk to anybody. My whole life, when we’d go somewhere for dinner, he’d always talk to the manager. Like, ‘hey, let the manager know I’m here.’ It’s like, in my family, no one ever said, ‘don’t talk to strangers,’” Masino says, laughing.

“All we did is talk to everybody.”

Today, in business dealings here in Gwinnett County, the topic of Masino’s father often comes up: “Any time I run into

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Any time I run into someone who knew my dad, they’re like, ‘Oh my God, you sound and act just like him!

someone who knew my dad, they’re like, ‘Oh my God, you sound and act just like him!’”

Growing up, Masino’s father was a mentor to his son. He worked in the hospitality industry, affording the younger Masino unique opportunities that would sound improbable to most other children his age.

“I went to the U.S. Open with my dad when I was 11. I went to World Series games. I’ve done all these crazy things with dad,” Masino says, offering up an anecdote peppered in detail, as he often does.

“Once, I was backstage with Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons at Chastain when I was in fifth grade and it was hot as hell,” Masino says. “It was Chastain in the summer, and I remember Frankie Valli coming off stage. This was around the same time Mean Joe Greene had a commercial where some kid gave him a Coke … So, Frankie Valli comes off stage and I actually got to give him a Coke.”

Adds Masino, now 50: “I mean, as a kid, I was like, ‘This is so cool!”’

He recalls having no fear of social situations from a young age. In high school, when he’d go to prom, he’d spend most of his time chatting with the father of his date about the next Heisman candidate.

“I’d go on dates and meet the parents, and the parents loved me. They always loved me,” Masino says. “And now, my kids, they’re great communicators too, so I guess we emulate our dad, and my wife, she’s also very outgoing too … our kids have emulated us.”

GEORGIA’S YOUNGEST MAYOR Seems like a good point in the conversation to ask how Masino met his wife.

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Here’s the gist: He met Suzanne in Cincinnati, where they attended high school. A self-described “corporate brat” – akin to “military brat” – he’d moved there in eighth grade, following his father’s ascendant career from location to location around the United States (seven states by eighth grade).

He finished high school in Cincinnati, then followed his parents to Snellville, where a family member lived. After being accepted to Ohio State (the same college as Suzanne), he packed his bags and went north again, reconnecting with his high school sweetheart. He married Suzanne in 1994.

They moved to the Atlanta area, starting out at an apartment near Gwinnett Place Mall, before settling on a home in Suwanee in the mid-90s.

Twenty-three years old, and holding a degree in interpersonal organizational communications, Masino went to work in business development. He sold checkwriting systems intended “to convince people not to buy a computer … but to use a journal,” followed by temporary staffing.

Fast forward to 2006: Masino leads the national division of a publicly traded staffing and recruiting company.

“I had offices in three different time zones. I remember waking up one morning, either in DC or Chicago, and I had to look at the area code on the hotel phone to remember where I was,” Masino says. “At the same time, I had three little kids … and I’m like, ‘this is not healthy.’

Oh, and at the same time, I was mayor of the city of Suwanee.”

Wow. Let’s back up a little. When did you become mayor?

“Yeah, it’s interesting,” Masino says.

“I got involved with the city of Suwanee within a year of moving there. There

was a rezoning near my neighborhood. I went to city hall, and [said] ‘hey, I’m a voter and vote against this. One of the council members came down to talk to me and said, ‘Hey, I was going to vote for this tonight, but [because of] your public comments … I changed my mind.’”

The experience intrigued Masino, who was 25 years old at the time. He kept attending city council meetings. Six months later – still attending city council meetings – Masino was approached by a city staff person who asked what kept him coming.

“I was just like, ‘this is interesting to me,’” Masino says.

The staff person told Masino about an opening on the planning and zoning board of appeals. He submitted a letter of interest and was soon serving the city of Suwanee in the new role.

He held a post on the planning and zoning board for several years. The mayor approached him one today and, according to Masino, said, ‘I’m not running again; you should run for council.’

Masino says the mayor and council thought him a good listener with fresh ideas and lots of energy.

And turns out, none of the current members wanted to run for mayor for the upcoming term.

Masino talked to his wife and prayed about it. He decided to run and soon became mayor of Suwanee at the age of 29, making him, at the time, Georgia’s youngest mayor.

He served as Suwanee mayor for eight years, retiring from elected office to take a role in economic development leadership in 2007.

AT 5 O’CLOCK ON FRIDAY, I’M DONE Let’s talk about that. How did you get involved in economic development leadership?

“I remember going to a [Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce] luncheon in November of 2006 and I saw the chamber president … Jim Maran,” Masino says. “I said, ‘Jim, If you know of an opportunity, new company moving to town, somebody expanding, somebody that maybe leads a sales team, I’d be interested in something where I’m not traveling as much or regularly.’”

Later on, Maran – who passed away last year – called Masino in January 2007 and asked to

meet him and another high-ranking chamber staff member for breakfast.

The group came to an agreement on salary, and, like with many of the decisions in his life, Masino went home, prayed about it and talked it out with his wife.

He started as Gwinnett Chamber and Partnership Gwinnett’s Chief Economic Development Officer in February 2007. He worked with public and private leadership to commission economic development studies in 2011 and 2016 and spearheaded the implementation efforts of the initial plan in 2007 – which has since brought about 290 company expansions or relocations; more than 28,000 new jobs; more than 9 million square feet of space filled; and more than $2.1 billion in investment for Gwinnett.

For their work together in this role, Masino talks of Maran with much reverence. “[Maran] had experience as an international executive, and I really was almost just coming to work for him,” Masino says. “He was hardcharging … and awesome. I loved working for him. I appreciate everything that I learned from him.”

Little did Masino know that 12 years later he himself would be chamber president.

After taking the job in 2019, Masino has since been named to the 2019: Most Influential Atlantans list by Atlanta Business Chronicle and been numbered among Georgia Trend’s 100 Most Influential Georgians in 2019 and again in 2020.

In addition to being chamber president and CEO, he serves on the Regional Business Coalition of Metro Atlanta; Explore Gwinnett; Council for Quality Growth; Mitsubishi Classic Foundation; the 1818 Club; Georgia Chamber; Georgia’s Innovation Corridor Joint Development Authority; the Water Tower Global Innovation Hub @ Gwinnett; Partnership Gwinnett; Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation Fund; and Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation (Northside Hospital).

Andrew Carnes, vice president of economic development with Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, says Masino is “one of those leaders

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people are drawn to … and he’s down to earth as well. Another thing about Nick – you can always count on him to have your back … through thick and thin.”

Carnes adds that in his time working Nick – about six years now – it’s clear Masino puts a premium on time with the family above all else.

It’s true, Masino says. Family first.

And, while we’re on the subject, don’t go texting or calling him about business after 5 p.m. on a Friday.

“Yeah, so everybody knows I sometimes get invited to things on the weekend,” Masino says. “At 5 o’clock on Friday, I’m done. I’ll see you at 8 Monday morning. I’m out; that’s family time.

PEOPLE WILL ALWAYS COME TOGETHER

... if you get people together, and you focus on what you agree on, you can accomplish great things together.

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For years, Masino has guarded his precious family time on weekends so that he could be his daughter’s soccer coach; so that he could be his son’s wrestling coach; so that he could run the Peachtree Road Race with his youngest daughter; but most of all, just so he can be “a completely engaged parent” in the midst of all he does Monday through Friday.

The kids aren’t kids anymore, but the time with them isn’t any less important to Masino. In fact, Anna, 21, Vincent, 19, and Julia, 17 still take regular vacations with their mom and dad (as you can see from all the pictures).

“We like to travel. We love the outdoors. We’ve done a ton of great national parks. [Our daughters and son] actually want to do college spring break with us,” Masino says. “And so instead of the whole, ‘let’s go to Florida and get crazy,’ they’re like, ‘can I go to Switzerland with you and mom?’”

Nick’s wife says the family vacation has been one of the joys of parenting.

“They love to travel. We love to travel,” Suzanne says, adding that having a son and daughters their age who still enjoy spend time with them is “the ultimate win in parenting.”

They’ve skied together in Switzerland. Seen the sights in Germany. Toured Milan in Italy.

Speaking of Italy, there was one question we never did get back to – the answer to which happens to involve the southern European country.

Tell me about the importance of human connection.

Masino ponders for a moment before smiling, locking eyes on the listener and going to work in his trade of master communicator, wielding the power of spoken word: “This is completely the way humans are designed biologically, genetically. We were gatherers together. Have you ever been to Italy, for instance? Every village in Italy is at the top of a mountain … the residents are all crammed together, people stay together. They gather. It’s human nature. People will always come together.”

Adds Masino: “How do you connect and grow if you’re not connecting and communicating? My entire career, it’s never proven me wrong that if you get people together, and you focus on what you agree on, you can accomplish great things together.”

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TEACHER YEAR OF THE

I

THE UNDERSEA WORLD OF JENNA CLONINGER

n the bustling halls of Central Gwinnett High School, students in 10th to 12th grade are diving into an unexpected adventure— Oceanography. Led by the passionate and innovative Mrs. Jenna Cloninger, the Oceanography program has become a buoy of excitement and discovery. What makes this story even more thrilling is that many students and parents may not have realized that high school could be the gateway to a deep exploration of the ocean.

Mrs. Cloninger, a dynamic educator with five years of experience in the classroom, believes that science is for everyone. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of North Georgia and a master’s degree in Instructional Technology from Kennesaw State University. In her biology-rooted journey, she discovered the vastness of the ocean and found a way to make it accessible and intriguing for her students. “I create an inclusive environment in my classroom by honoring student voice and choice,” she shares. Her dedication to providing a culturally relevant curriculum has resulted in students leaving her class with a profound understanding of how the ocean impacts each and every person on the planet, irrespective of their background or status.

But Mrs. Cloninger’s impact goes beyond the classroom. She is also a proud supporter of ‘S.H.I.E.L.D.,’

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an initiative that has transformed tutoring services into a collaborative approach, turning a potentially mundane task into an engaging learning experience. “S.H.I.E.L.D. has improved our school’s culture by providing a positive learning environment in which students do not feel that tutoring is a punishment or a chore,” she proudly states.

“S.H.I.E.L.D. HAS IMPROVED OUR SCHOOL’S CULTURE

BY PROVIDING A POSITIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH STUDENTS DO NOT FEEL THAT TUTORING IS A PUNISHMENT OR A CHORE,” And now the spotlight shines even brighter on Mrs. Cloninger.

Gwinnett County Public Schools has named her the 2025 Teacher of the Year, the pinnacle of recognition for an educator. At the glittering event held at the Gas South Convention Center, Mrs. Cloninger stood tall among the 141 local school Teachers of The Year, six TOTY finalists, and 19 other outstanding educators.

Before clinching the prestigious

Teacher of the Year title, Mrs. Cloninger had already been recognized as the 2025 Gwinnett County High School Teacher of the Year. Her journey to the top began at the start of the school year when teachers from throughout the district nominated and selected 141 representatives. Committees then meticulously narrowed down the selection to the top six, with Mrs. Cloninger emerging victorious.

Her success isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a testament to the transformative power of passion and dedication. Mrs. Cloninger’s love for oceanography, combined with her commitment to creating an inclusive learning environment, has not only earned her the title of Teacher of the Year but has also opened doors for students to explore the wonders of the ocean right in their high school classrooms.

As the accolades pour in, Mrs. Cloninger remains an inspiration, proving that when you do what you love, it not only shows but makes all the difference—in the lives of students and the broader educational community. The excitement continues to ripple through Central Gwinnett High School as the oceanography program gains momentum, with Mrs. Cloninger at the helm, steering her students towards a future filled with knowledge, curiosity, and endless possibilities.

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RICHARD TUCKER Some of the earliest lessons Richard Tucker, CEO and co-founder of Arlington Capital, learned about being an effective leader, he gleaned at the tender age of nine when he was still a young boy fresh in his elementary school years.Tucker was raised by parents who inherently displayed the tenets of great leadership in everything they did and grasped every opportunity to inculcate these attributes in Tucker, too.

When his parents enrolled him in athletics, Tucker was taught the importance of taking ownership and the benefits of teamwork. At home his parents reinforced the qualities of integrity and hard work. When he became part of the student council, he was taught to take ownership of his actions and the power of admitting errors and following them up with swift amends.

At the time, he didn’t associate these

qualities to the notion of leadership per se, and he didn’t realize that in the process of these experiences, his parents were ingraining in him lifelong skills that would ultimately help him achieve a long string of successes in a matter of decades— accomplishments that most people can only dream of achieving in a single lifetime.

A native to central Dekalb in the fifties, Tucker’s family was strictly a middleclass working family, with his father being employed as a car dealership general manager. At the age of 14, Tucker drew inspiration from his father’s commitment to his career and decided to apply for a part-time job at the dealership, too. As he watched his dad command a small team of people, he learned that leading by example to deliver your best work to motivate others was the hallmark of some of his dad’s best leadership traits.

Many days after school, Tucker would hop on a bus and ride to the dealership to work alongside his dad and see him in action, returning home with him at the close of the workday to spot his mom taking great pride in managing their home and later her banking career with the

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The whole world runs off relationships, You can have good ones or you can have not so good ones. The not so good ones affect you as much as the good ones.

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same level of dedication and passion. Over time, Tucker began to imbibe on these traits, shaping his own distinguished understanding of what leadership meant as he came into adulthood.

While enrolled in the University of Georgia, Tucker continued to work almost every quarter of the school year as he studied toward obtaining a business degree. At the time, Tucker wasn’t quite sure where that degree would lead him, only that he could see himself working in some realm of sales or sales management.

While still enrolled at the university, Tucker met his future wife, Peggy. Later, in 1970, after Peggy graduated, the pair tied the knot. Two years later, they transitioned to Gwinnett County, making it home, and also welcomed their first child, Lee Tucker, who was born a month before Tucker’s own graduation and attended his commencement ceremony. Days after graduation, Tucker landed his first “eat-what-you-kill” job, as he jokingly refers to it, with Wayne and Jimmy Mason, real estate tycoons who’d already realized great successes in the property industry.

Wayne hired Tucker to sell homes in Snellville for pure commission pay.

Fortunately, the real estate market was at its peak from 1972 through 1974, affording Tucker a more than decent living, several times more than other job offers he received.

And then suddenly, as with most cyclical ventures, inflation hit, interest rates skyrocketed, and the

demand for real estate instantly shriveled up. By now, Tucker and his wife had recently also welcomed a daughter, Valerie. With a full family to support, Tucker scrambled to land several part-time jobs. By day, he worked odd jobs, by evening he loaded trucks, and by night he pulled overnight shifts to make ends meet, even going as far as to secure a parttime rural mail route.

Growing anxious for something steady, Tucker serendipitously stumbled into his neighbor one day, who turned out to be the high school principal for their school district. He shared that the school had teaching vacancies. However, he advised Tucker that he would first need to obtain a teaching certificate, after which he could be hired as a history, PE teacher, and football and basketball coach. Eager to gain full time employment, Tucker returned to UGA in the spring of 1975 to obtain a provisional teaching certificate alongside his wife. He taught for two years—but Peggy would make a career out of it for the next three decades until retiring from Brookwood High School as its assistant principal in 2005.

Fortunately, Tucker’s earlier gleaned skills with real estate began to come in handy again around this time. He started expanding his scope of projects, using profits to then acquire both real estate and later non-real estate based ventures, building a diversified portfolio of investments. Along the way, he remained in touch

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EDUCATION

with his pal Wayne Mason, who was later elected Chairman of the Gwinnett County Commission. Not long after, in 1977, Mason tapped Tucker to come work for him as a liaison between elected commissioners and department heads. For almost three years, Tucker remained in this role and saw his leadership skills start to take root again. He began networking with other leaders in the county, observing them, noting the things that made them successful. In this space, Tucker felt confident and in his natural element. Not for the first time, he also felt fortunate to be in Gwinnett, till this day dubbing it the county of opportunity.

In 1980, Tucker left the Gwinnett County Government to join Virgil Williams in a myriad of businesses, including contracting, banking and real estate. To this day, Tucker still refers to Williams as a visionary and mentor who helped him realize his full potential.

Taking his freshly gained experience, Tucker then transitioned to the mortgage industry, ultimately ascending to Vice President of mortgage lending for a major Atlanta-based bank.

Tucker was often involved in political campaigns as a supporter and contributor, lending his backing during several gubernatorial races and eventually was appointed to a handful of statewide positions. Along the way, he kept practicing the tenets he’d learned early on: working with integrity, building trust, giving respect, believing in people. His humble nature and way with business dealings also started to catch the eye of prominent figures at the state level.

In 1998, Tucker landed in the field

of vision of Governor Roy Barnes, who promptly appointed him to the Georgia Regional Transportation Authority, where Tucker spent three years developing transportation policy. There, Tucker and his board committee helped craft the legislation, authorization and resolution to get the Atlanta region compliant with the national Clean Air Act. Flourishing further, Tucker joined appointed and volunteer boards such as Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau, where he was involved in driving significant decisions for the Gas South Center & Arena.

Among his own ventures, he owned and operated multiple package liquor stores. And then, suddenly, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce had a vacancy for its CEO position. Tucker remembers hesitating to apply despite being encouraged to do so. “I was largely an entrepreneurial spirit and didn’t know how I’d feel leading a not for profit organization,” says Tucker. But he took the job, thinking he’d stay two years. Instead, he ended up investing seven years in the position and seeing the Chamber through several successes. One, for instance, was raising enough capital to pay for the entire building and construction of the chamber headquarters so it was owned free and clear of debt. This building, now named the Richard L. Tucker building in his honor, would go on to remain unchanged for the next two decades before its most recent renovation in 2023.

Later Tucker’s reputation preceded him with Sonny Perdue who, once elected as governor, appointed Tucker to the University System Board of Regents in

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I’ve also learned that you can lead, but you don’t have to be out in front of everyone to do so. There are many ways to lead.

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2005. Here Tucker would spend the next fourteen plus years undertaking responsibility for the state’s public colleges and universities in Georgia, meanwhile earning reappointment

by Governor Nathan Deal. While on the Board of Regents, Tucker served as Chairman of the Board and of every standing committee, earning regional and statewide recognition for his leadership in business and civic endeavors. In 2003, he received the 4 Pillar Award from the Council for Quality Growth and has been listed multiple times as 100 Most Outstanding Leaders by Georgia Trend Magazine and the Atlanta Journal Constitution.

In the meantime, around 2003, Tucker took the leadership skills he’d garnered in these prominent positions combined with his passion for real estate to become Managing Partner and, later, sole proprietor of Arlington Capital, an equity lending firm that funded real estate projects.

By then, Tucker felt at the peak of his understanding of real estate and finance and realized the vast scope of opportunities available in the industry. The firm kicked off as a mezzanine lender, lending project equity to borrowers after the bank had made its determination on how much of the total amount it would lend as primary debt.

Tucker was successful in this role, with his early upbringing and leadership experiences driving fruitful interactions and achievements. Then the 2008 financial meltdown reared its head.

Because Arlington itself was reliant

on loans and on the hook with lenders, it accumulated significant debt, which took the greater part of the next three and half years to recover from. By the time the company finally made itself out of financial quicksand, it was 2013 and Tucker had acquired sole ownership of the entity.

Immediately, he set forth to revamp the company model so that it would invest in real estate by placing equity alongside other investors to match their placed equity. Tucker’s innovativeness, diligence, and people skills have today contributed to Arlington Capital being recognized as a distinguished one-of-a-kind company in the financial niche. But at the heart of its success, Tucker believes, stands its commitment to building relationships and fostering client trust traditional style with faith in promises and handshakes.

“The whole world runs off relationships,” says Tucker. “You can have good ones or you can have not so good ones. The not so good ones affect you as much as the good ones. At Arlington we are in the relationship business and focus on building great relationships predicated on a lot of trust and understanding of the markets.”

If he’s learned one thing in his decades of being at the forefront of business, politics, and local positions of authority, it’s this: leadership takes on many faces. “I’ve always said, if you’re leading and nobody’s following, you’re just out for a walk,” says Tucker. “I’ve also learned that you can lead, but you don’t have

to be out in front of everyone to do so.

You can lead with just your ideas, your participation, your contributions whether they’re financial or intellectual. There are many ways to lead.”

However, the three key qualities Tucker places at the forefront as significant traits every leader should demonstrate are to keep true to your word, speak the truth and, in the event you ever fail to tell the full truth, take ownership of your shortcomings and do your best to clean the situation up the best you can. He credits these lessons back three-hundred-and-sixty degrees to learnings taking root decades ago during those early childhood years.

“My parents always said, it’s expected that you’ll make mistakes, but if you don’t try to make amends, you’ll pay the price,” says Tucker. “They also instilled the characteristic of having great pride in your accomplishments. They wouldn’t hesitate to share with people the things I did well, and I thrived under that praise.”

Of course, he feels remiss to not share how blessed he feels to have had great mentors and inspirational contacts who also helped cultivate his leadership philosophy, such as his friend Wayne Mason and many other notable Georgians.

“The relationships you keep are important,” says Tucker. “My mother always said you are judged by the company you keep, so be careful who you associate with. I draw inspiration from and emulate people who are successful at what they do.”

Tucker also believes in paying it forward to younger professionals seeking mentorship and guidance, saying he’s happy to help people in the way others helped him.

Tucker says the best advice he can offer aspiring leaders eager for sage advice is to be passionate about whatever it is they set

out to do. “Without true passion, you won’t feel interested to learn and grow or even seek guidance from experienced mentors,” says Tucker.

Decades of innumerable successes in varying professional arenas aside, Tucker states that the single most significant accomplishment of his life is the family he and Peggy have helped create, including his two children and five grandkids—all of whom he believes to be leaders in their own right.

“My grandkids are involved in everything imaginable from athletics to academics to business to civic and charitable work,” says Tucker. “They’re team captains, student council officers and passionate about all they do.” says Tucker.

“But I give the full credit of my grandkids’ successes to my two children, Lee Tucker and Valerie Ausband and their spouses who are remarkable themselves. Above all else, I give thanks to God every day for each of these blessings.”

In expression of his gratitude for all that life has afforded him and his family, Tucker participates in many causes but prefers to keep his contributions anonymous.

However, he humbly discloses that he has a particular soft spot for causes geared toward scholarships and foundations that benefit children who are at the mercy of others, such as those who are incapacitated.

“I am beyond blessed in many ways. If I can contribute back to others, that makes me feel I’m doing my part. There’s a large pie to fill—if each of us contributes a little bit to that pie, the missing parts become much smaller. It’s the least I feel I can do to show my thanks to the good Lord for all He has so graciously provided to my family and me.”

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BILL RUSSELL Warm, witty, charming.Those are just some of the words that describe Bill Russell, founder of Russell Landscape Group–one of the most famous landscape companies in the Southeast.

As a young boy, Russell wasn’t as familiar with the world of beautifying and perfecting landscapes. He was raised on a farm just forty miles south of Nashville, Tennessee and helped manage his family’s livestock, crops, and financials. From an early age, he adopted a “toil in the soil” mindset, understanding the value of hard work and work ethic from his father and gaining his faith in God from his mother.

Russell was also involved in the Tennessee walking horse industry and ambitioned to continue working in it and become a veterinarian when he grew up. Being the eldest of thirty-five

grandchildren, he found no shortage of friends at Sunday lunch gatherings, which often inched upwards of a hundred family members. Russell, during high school, seldom ventured beyond Tennessee, so the thought of leaving all the familiar faces of family members behind to attend a college in Kentucky was quite overwhelming. Even though deeply homesick, he remained enrolled for some time–until his father realized he wasn’t attending classes.

With his lagging interest, Russell dropped out and returned to the farm.

Shortly thereafter, Russell was drafted into the army, where he served two years which included being on the 6th Army military funeral team and a tour of Vietnam. Upon honorable discharge, he felt much more prepared to give college another go. This time, he enrolled in Middle Tennessee State University, hoping to stay close to the local Tennessee walking horse industry and attend veterinary school.

Growing up, Russell witnessed several of his family members serving public

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Listening to them (fellow colleagues) and making Gwinnett home has proved to be some of the most prudent advice I’ve ever received.

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office, with one even being elected as secretary of education under two U S presidents.

Leveraging them as inspiration, Russell served in student government in college, became president of his fraternity and also married the daughter of his hometown mayor–the love of his life, Sherry.

Four years later, Russell had double majored in pre veterinary med and agronomy. While eagerly awaiting the University of Tennessee to open the doors to its new vet school, he was sagely advised by one of his professors, a Southern Illinois University alum, to consider pursuing a master’s in the meantime. Russell heeded his advice and enrolled in a master’s program at Southern Illinois University shortly after his son, Teddy, was born, relocating the family to Carbondale, Illinois.

That’s when his life’s ambitions took a turn in a completely unexpected direction. In Illinois, Russell witnessed a burgeoning growth in an industry that caused him to drop all thoughts of becoming a veterinarian.

“The relatively new agrichemical industry was exploding rapidly throughout the mid western farm belt,” says Russell.

“And Fortune 500 firms like Eli Lilly, Monsanto, Dow, Dupont and others were aggressively pursuing graduates like colleges

pursue five-star athletes.”

After completing his Master’s, Russell received a fully paid research associateship to pursue his PhD at Ohio State University, making all three of his degrees paid for entirely by research associateships and the GI Bill. On his 30th birthday, Russell obtained his PhD in agri chemistry and accepted a district manager position with a globally recognized American pharmaceutical company.

He and his now family of four, after welcoming his daughter, Angie, relocated to Kansas City.

As he scoped out the landscape, Russell noticed that some of the most influential business leaders in Kansas City were prominent farmers who managed 10,000 plus acres of mixed crop farmland.

They were also his company’s customers, giving him confidence in the scope of the industry and its opportunities.

In 1979, double digit inflation, interest rates and unemployment made for a challenging economy.

However, Russell’s corporate position made it possible for him to purchase the family’s first home and weather the economic storm well. Motivated by the strong momentum of his professional success and progress, Russell used his very first company-paid time off to attend The Missouri Auctioneer School so he could

expand his skills and sell real estate at auction. Soon, his schedule grew packed.

He often traveled throughout the midwest for work during the week, sold real estate on Saturdays, then scrambled home Sunday mornings to attend church with his family.

Although Kansas City had treated his family well, Russell still missed the south and set his sights on returning soon. In 1983, that desire became a reality when his company offered him a promotion as southeast regional research director of its Atlanta facility. Russell and his family made the trek south and initially set out to purchase a home in Dunwoody, just miles from his office at Tech Park in Peachtree Corners. However, several of his fellow colleagues recommended Gwinnett County, touting its visionary government leadership, favorable business climate and superior public school system.

“Listening to them and making Gwinnett home has proved to be some of the most prudent advice I’ve ever received,” says Russell.

Meanwhile, his company continued to boom with the economic growth of the 1980s. However, by 1986, Russell recognized that many of their product patents were nearing their 20-year expiration and generic brands would soon flood the market, possibly making for more challenging economic times ahead.

The company offered him a transfer to its pharmaceuticals regulatory division, but Russell wasn’t willing to relocate again. Instead, he started considering initiating his own business, with several of his clients and others encouraging him

to explore the possibility of commercial landscape contracting.

Finally, in March of 1987, Russell turned this ambition into a reality, landing his first annual contract with a Californiabased company for $300,000. In its first year alone, Russell Landscape Group generated $600,000–a hefty fortune.

However, what Russell remembers most vividly from that time is family and friends questioning why he’d leave a Fortune 500 pharmaceutical company executive position to “cut grass.”

“The greater the chastisement, the more determined I became to succeed,” says Russell. “Every negative remark helped me recognize that the best way to predict the future is to create it – and that no one can make you feel inferior without your permission.”

The early years of his business were challenging, as Russell spent time keeping an eye on operations, gauging work quality, and monitoring crew performance by day, then coming home to do bookkeeping by night.

“I wore all the hats, slept little, and found out early on that entrepreneurs often take the business exams before receiving the study materials,” says Russell.

Today, Russell and Sherry celebrate 49 years of marriage and Russell Landscape Group has grown from a small start up company to become Georgia’s largest privately owned state-based landscape contractor firm.

But this only starts the story of Russell’s much greater influence and

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I believe in giving back to the community where our business and family have prospered.

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imprint on Gwinnett County. According to Russell, it all started with the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, which champions small businesses. “During the early years of Russell Landscape Group,” says Russell, “the Chamber’s exemplary programs allowed us to both thrive and survive.”

Eager to contribute back to the community that had delivered him an abundance of luck and success, Russell applied to the Leadership Gwinnett program, established for leaders willing and able to contribute to the county’s growth and success. In 1997, the committee selected him, affording him access to a platform where Russell would gain exposure to various departments in county government, business, and lead organizations, helping him expand his network and extend his reach.

The program also introduced him to Gwinnett pioneers Richard Tucker and Tom Andersen, who invited Russell to join the Gwinnett Chamber Board of Directors and also its executive committee. And then, before he realized, Russell was a decision maker on a dozen different boards, contributing his knowledge and leadership expertise as a successful business owner.

In the midst of this, Russell’s friends and business acquaintances, the renowned Wayne Mason and Richard Tucker, approached Russell, requesting him to donate landscape materials and labor for the new Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce building. The donation amounted to nearly a quarter million dollars, making Russell pause.

“Initially, I thought ‘There’s no way we can afford to do that,’” said Russell. “But the pair convinced me that the investment would return back many fold–and their wisdom couldn’t have turned out to be more true!”

Shortly after completing the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce project, Russell Landscape Group exploded in growth with contracts and projects coming in left and right.

And Russell found himself even more immersed in the happenings of the county. He’s done philanthropic work for myriad sectors, raising millions of dollars in funds for nonprofits, charities, fundraisers and auctions. Most significantly, Russell is known for his contributions to the Open Heart campaign, where he served as chairman of major gifts after Gwinnett Medical Center received the Certificate of Need for open heart services at its Strickland Heart Center.

Alongside all of this, Russell has continued to use his landscaping prowess to execute beautifications on scores of marquee projects, such as Gas South District and numerous Community Improvement Districts throughout metro Atlanta. And on a state level, he was appointed by Governor Deal and reappointed by Governor Kemp to serve on the Board of Governors at the Georgia World Congress Center–the fourth largest entertainment, sports and convention facility in the nation.

There he previously served two terms as Chairman.

“I believe in giving back to the community where our business and family have prospered,” says Russell.

For his years of invaluable contributions to the community, Russell has been honored with the Citizen of the Year from the Chamber of Commerce and a plethora of other awards including Metro Atlanta Landscape Association’s Pioneer Lifetime Achievement Award, Gwinnett Public School System’s Public Service Award, Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful Environmental Legacy Award, Northside Gwinnett Medical Center’s Distinguished Service award and many more. Humble in his acknowledgement of these accolades, Russell says, “I’m an import and have only been in Gwinnett forty years. I’ve merely ridden on the backs of the many patriarch and matriarch giants who came before me in shaping Gwinnett.”

For his outstanding contributions and leadership, Russell and a handful of other Gwinnett County leaders, such as Richard Tucker, were honored by Senator Brandon Beach and Commissioner Russell McMurray of the Georgia DOT. On his 70th birthday, as part of this honor, Russell accepted having a part of Highway 120 named after him in celebration of his achievements.

Today, Russell has stepped back from his founding company, handing the reins to his son, Teddy, who is now the owner and operator of Russell Landscape Group. Since the exchange, Teddy as CEO has led the company to nearly triple its revenues and taken it to another level of success. Russell remains extremely proud of him and also his daughter Angie, who herself has also kept true to the family’s landscape expertise guiding her own company for turf and mulch colorants, while working with some of the largest franchises in the nation.

As for his future plans, Russell has a few. “I look forward to finishing out my fourth term at the Georgia World Congress Center,” he says. “And I also am excited to spend more time with family and friends.

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Investing in Our Future: Gwinnett County’s Vision for 2024 NICOLE L. HENDRICKSON CHAIRWOMAN GWINNETT COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS

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Shaping the future of our vibrantly connected community requires meticulous consideration of the County’s present needs and a strategic vision for sustained success.

Our proposed budget for the 2024 fiscal year is a blueprint that not only meets the challenges of today but positions itself as a model of sustainable growth and well-being for years to come. The investments made today will lay the foundation for a thriving and resilient Gwinnett tomorrow.

This comprehensive plan, totaling $2.5 billion, focuses on ensuring that we can maintain our exceptional services while prioritizing the rapidly changing needs of our residents and businesses.

One of the key aspects of the budget is its focus on community needs, with a spotlight on affordable housing and public safety. The challenges facing the county government, such as the recruitment and retention of a qualified workforce, are also approached with a forward-looking perspective.

A pivotal component of the proposed budget is the allocation of resources to key infrastructure projects within the 2023 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax program. This approach ensures that Gwinnett remains at the forefront of progress, with initiatives like the addition of a new traffic signal

crew and the development of a biosolids dryer facility. The latter, aimed at reducing environmental impact and transportation costs associated with waste disposal, reflects the County’s commitment to sustainability.

With this budget, we’re taking prudent steps to address priorities like infrastructure, sustainability, and community well-being that not only impact our county today but set us up for success long into the future. An update to the Solid Waste Management Plan and ongoing enhancements to the Gwinnett Trails network are indicative of this strategy.

As Gwinnett experiences continued growth with more than one million residents, the proposed budget reaffirms the County’s mission to foster a healthy community.

Accessible and affordable housing, a health care initiative focusing on mental and chronic health care, and additional resources for Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services underscore our dedication to the well-being of residents.

As we embark on the journey of 2024, let us embrace the spirit of unity and progress that defines Gwinnett County. Here’s to a year of growth, compassion, and unwavering belief in the boundless possibilities that lie ahead.

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