Georgia Gems Fall 2016 by Plus One Media

Georgia Gems Fall 2016

A Publication of the Georgia School Nutrition Association

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Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

Georgia Gems Published by the Georgia School Nutrition Association

Inside This Issue From the President

School Level Chair Message

System Level Chair Message

GSNA Industry Advisory Board

2016 Meetings and Events

Secretary Carolyn Ross

Shake It Up Pledge!

Treasurer Paige Holland

Around the State!

GSNA Annual Conference Award Winners

GSNA Director of the Year: Nicole James – Butts County

GSNA Manager of the Year: Celeste Williams – Coffee County

2016-2017 Officers President Regina Williamson President-elect Laura Lynn

System Level Section Chair Keshia Williams School Level Section Chair Tessany Lockhart Executive Director Susan Cheshire GSNA Office 2372 Main St. Tucker, Georgia 30084 (770) 934-8890 Fax: (770) 934-8917 (877) 221-8733 (inside Georgia) www.georgiaschoolnutrition.com Share your news with other members! Send items and photos to patrice@ georgiaschoolnutrition.com To Advertise in Georgia Gems Contact: Melissa Connor (404) 735-4750 Plus One Media, Inc. melissa@plusonemedia.com Georgia Gems is published twice a year by the Georgia School Nutrition Association. Articles and editorials in Georgia Gems represent the views of the authors and do not necessarily reflect official policy of the Georgia School Nutrition Association nor does acceptance of any advertising imply endorsement of the product(s) or service(s).

GSNA Employee of the Year and SNA’s Regional Employee of the Year for Southeast: Shanta Lawson – Houston County 16 GSNA Josephine Martin Award for Excellence: Shana Wood – Houston County

GSNA Naomi Tolbert Central Office Support Award: Jean Bragg – Bulloch County

2016 NAC Art Winners

Corporate Members

Thanks GSNA 2015-2016 Sponsors!

Back cover 1

Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

From the President

elcome back! I know we all agree that summer was too short. I am sure for all of you that continued to feed during the summer it literally feels like you never left. Thank you is not enough for the HARD work and countless hours planning to make sure our Georgia Grown children do not go hungry when school is out. I want to say you are appreciated not only by the children but us at GSNA as well! I am excited to start my journey with all the members in starting up a new year and watching us branch out in all directions. I understand that everyone has ups and downs with getting the school year going but don’t lose sight of our goal and that is feeding our future. I want to say again that the rings of the tree shows its years, its scars, all the struggle and all the suffering. But yet nothing is more exemplary than a beautiful, strong tree waving in the wind. Our work is just that even with struggles we still wave strong for everyone to see what an awesome role we do to make kids healthy to learn. I also want us to reach out to new members and make them feel welcome. Our membership is growing but I also want to make sure we do our best to mentor them which in turn will help us maintain our seasoned members to make GSNA something everyone is talking about in a daily conversation. Make sure that we entwine our roots in all kinds of dirt. We need to be telling our story and sometimes we let others tell it. Their stories can lead to misguided infor-

mation. That makes us rally to correct what has been released. If we take control and a little time to be proactive and toot our own horn the facts will speak for themselves. I want to once again let you know that I am here for you if you need anything. GSNA is also here and has vast resources for any area you may be struggling with this year. We have strong branches of our family tree to support the vision of School Nutrition for Georgia Grown children. So...Let’s Get this Party started! Strong Roots. Strong Future. Regina Williamson GSNA President, 2016-2017 regina.williamson@hcbe.net

#StrongRootsStrongFuture@GA_SNA Save the Date! SNA National Annual Conference July 9-12, 2017 Atlanta, GA Put the dates on your calendar NOW! Don’t miss the chance to join with your school nutrition peers from around the country right in YOUR back yard! Let’s show our visitors how we do it in Georgia as we welcome them to “Hot-lanta.” GSNA will be calling on you to help so please think about getting together with your school, county or district and think of ways you can help GSNA in Atlanta for the 2017 SNA ANC.

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Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

School Level Chair Message

e are off to a great start in GSNA and have seen an increase in membership over the past year which is a sign that we are moving in the right direction. I would like for us to keep that momentum going of growing in numbers sustaining our position as the leader in the nation. It is also imperative that we understand how valuable our commitment and our contributions of our resources and our time also add value to the success of this organization. Without each of you individually and collectively there would be no GSNA. A large part of the value in your membership is this organization gives us the platform and the voice to speak on behalf of school nutrition issues, child nutrition issues and employee benefits issues which is a value for all those connected and affected by our school nutrition programs. So you see, there is a priceless value to your membership. I would like to say thank you to those who chose to be a part of the GSNA team. You are valuable! This year while learning your value, I would like to also encourage you to utilize every upcoming opportunity and available resource to advance in knowledge to add value to your personal and professional goals. And to also keep in mind when planning training that our industry are not just a resource for donations many of them have extensive training in various key areas within USDA Profes-

sional Standard Guidelines. I encourage you to utilize them for In-Service, GSNA District Professional Enrichment Program Training, and your local and district training because our industry has the potential to add so much value to our programs. Our industry would love and welcome the opportunity to get involved telling their story and sharing with us their many gifts and talents. Allowing our industry to become more involved in training and in what we do will help us understand the value they add and also bridge the gap between GSNA, SNP and industry, connecting and building a strong partnership for future success. In closing, in all of your getting this year understand your purpose, know your worth, have a passion for changing lives, but most importantly, know that you are valuable! Tessany Lockhart, School Level Chair tessany.lockhart@hcbe.net

System Level Chair Message

o y’all feel it? Fall is coming – a season of change. There is nothing I love more than looking at the change in the leaves with my family as fall graciously bestows us. But, with Regina’s theme “Strong Roots, Strong Future,” I can’t help but think about how a tree evolves daily to grow, withstand the environment, and to thrive.

Together, our tree can weather any storm that comes our way. With our new president’s theme, “Strong Roots, Strong Future”, not only am I speaking metaphorically but also literally.

As we welcome fall, change is evident, but what we don’t see are the tree roots that are digging deeper to continue to uphold the ever growing structure. These embedded roots also allow the tree to stand firm and unbreakable when the weather gets too rough. The trunk is stout, tough, and solid. Although the bark can easily be knocked off – it regroups, stays steady, knows its job and realizes the role it plays in upholding the branches. Tree branches are always evolving. Some are breaking, growing, changing colors, turning different directions and while some have leaves - some don’t. My question for you is where are you on our GSNA tree? Are you a part of the root, the trunk, the branch? Or, are you cultivating the tree – giving it the proper tending, nurturing, and nutrition it needs to make a difference?

I want to take a moment and thank you for allowing me to be a part of GSNA in this capacity. I truly am honored and humbled. I look forward to learning from you all, gaining new friendships, developing new professional relationships, and having a better understanding of how our association can help you in your role at your school district! In 2016-2017, I look forward to where our members and leadership take this association. Together lets cultivate, climb and thrive. Keshia Williams, System Level Chair Keshia.williams@haralson.k12.ga.us

Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

Strong Roots, Strong Futures by Jennifer W. Sills, GSNA Industry Advisory Board, Form Plastics Company

chool nutrition continues to be a challenging environment to navigate as we wait for word from decision-makers on many issues that have the potential to change the landscape in which we operate and ultimately affect our ability to serve our most valuable and vulnerable population – our children, our future! Since 1946, Georgia school nutrition programs have fed healthy meals to millions of children in thousands of schools across the state, so the suggested changes pose a serious threat to our continued ability to support children’s diets, health, and academic performance in a meaningful and impact manner.

It is more important than ever that Georgia industry leaders get involved, working closely with staffs, students and schools to find answers to these challenges. As a collective group, focusing on solution-based approaches that promote discussion, understanding and cooperation will ensure we plant the seeds necessary to grow and expand the program while preparing the next generation of leaders for success! As your GSNA Industry Advisory Board Chair (IAB) for 2016-2017, I am excited to work with the IAB Board, President, Regina Williamson, the Executive Committee and the GSNA Staff to promote industry interests that support GSNA’s mission of advancing the availability, quality and acceptance of school nutrition programs as an integral part of the education environment. GSNA Priority Issues Include: • Membership • Education • Communication • Revenue Generation • Conferences and Meetings • Legislation The IAB Board consists of nine dedicated individuals from the various industry segments. We meet regularly with the GSNA team to develop strategies to improve communication, education and outreach to meet our goal of improving partnership opportunities that maximize our reach and growth potential. To facilitate enhanced communication and collaboration, each IAB Board member works directly with one of ten District teams to provide one-on-one support. Their expertise, in addition to the Speaker’s Bureau program helps Districts meet the goals and objectives set forth by the President. 4

The Speaker’s Bureau list contains over 75 industry speakers and topics that are designed to support the new professional standards. Industry support of education, training and skill development programs that help school nutrition professionals continue to grow and learn will ensure the continued success of the Georgia Grown Foods and the Healthy Children, Ready to Learn initiatives. Any organization that provides support, products, or services to school foodservice professionals and/or child nutrition programs is welcome and encouraged to join GSNA as a corporate member. Currently over 100 industry partners reap the benefits of membership while supporting and facilitating the needs and growth of the Association. GSNA has several opportunities for industry to get involved. Meetings, events and outreach throughout the school year can provide companies with a broad range of benefits, exposure and networking opportunities. GSNA strives to provide industry members with benefits that suit their current needs and expand opportunities for growth. For more information about membership visit www.georgiaschoolnutrition.com Thank you for the opportunity to represent GSNA industry membership. I look forward to a productive and successful year! Please contact me with questions, concerns or suggestions. jsills@formplastics.com

2016-2017 Industry Partners District 1: David Thomas District 2: Kristin Dukes District 3: Mark Conoly District 4/5: Warren Goldsmith District 6: Misty Friedman District 7: Becki Rogers District 8: Jennifer Sills District 9: Scott Reeves District 10: Eric Kenny

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

2016-17 advisory board Industry Advisory Board Chairman Jennifer W. Sills Chair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Term Expires 2017 Form Plastics Company 3825 Stern Avenue St. Charles, IL 60174-5457 Phone: 630-443-1400/407-739-3020 (cell) E-mail: jsills@formplastics.com Eric Kenny Term Expires 2017 The Hansen Group 1770 Breckinridge Pkwy, Suite #400 Duluth, GA 30096 Phone: 404-702-7121 E-mail: ekenny@thehansengroup.net Becki Rogers Term Expires 2017 PCS Revenue Control Systems, Inc. 2029 Spicers Lane Woodstock, GA 30189 Phone: 800-247-3061 ext. 1168 / 770-8539289 E-mail: becki@pcsrcs.com

Kristin Dukes Term Expires 2018 Cohen Food Brokerage PO Box 7657 Marietta, GA 30065 Phone: 229-942-6953 / 229-942-6953 E-mail: k.dukes@cohenfoods.com

Mark Conoly Term Expires 2019 Mobile Fixtures and Equipment Company 7373 Fortson Road Columbus, GA 31909 Phone: 706-506-8833 E-mail: mconoly@mobilefixture.com

Misty Friedman Term Expires 2018 Georgia Department of Agriculture 304 Scott Street Commerce, GA 30529 Phone: 404-859-5029 E-mail: misty.friedman@agr.georgia.gov

Warren Goldsmith Term Expires 2019 Premier Equipment Group, Inc. 5910 Shiloh Rd, E. Ste 122 Alpharetta, GA 30005 Phone: 770-205-6869 E-mail: wgoldsmith@premierequip.com

Scott Reeves Term Expires 2018 Paramount Marketing Group 140 Satellite Blvd, Suite B2 Suwanee, GA 30024 Phone: 404-578-0746 E-mail: scottreeves@pmgwins.com

David Thomas Term Expires 2019 Integrity Foods, Inc. 4635 Church Road Ste. 200 Cumming, GA 30028 Phone: 678-513-7482 E-mail: david@integrity-foods.com

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Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

Georgia School Nutrition Association Meetings & Events 2016-2017

#StrongRootsStrongFuture “A Dialog: Processing USDA Foods in Georgia” • The Foundry at the Classic Center • Athens, GA • October 25, 2016

A panel of school nutrition and industry professionals will discuss the benefits, challenges, best practices and improvements of processing USDA Foods in Georgia. Come learn everything you need to know to keep your business and program running smoothly.

2016 Commodity Reprocessing on Parade (CROP) Show • The Classic Center • Athens, GA • October 26, 2016 • #CROP2016

Georgia Grown and Georgia processed! Approved and potential processors will exhibit their processed products made from USDA commodity foods. These products are offered to Georgia school systems under the State Processing Program. You will be able to taste test items and receive information on product availability, nutrient content, servings per case, and guaranteed minimum.

2016 Managers’ Retreat and Training Summit • Savannah, GA • “Rejuvenate Your Roots” November 3-4, 2016 • #ManagersRetreat16

The future of school nutrition is in good hands with the talent that Georgia has in our SN Managers. The GSN Foundation Managers’ Training will help your Managers/Assistant Managers continue the tradition of excellence with training focused on the needs of the manager in planning, implementing, and managing SN programs.

2016 GSNA Industry Seminar • Legacy Lodge Hotel • Lake Lanier, GA • December 12-13, 2016 • #IndustrySeminar16

Communicating~ Collaborating~ Connecting Come communicate and collaborate at Lake Lanier! Join us as school nutrition professionals see what’s new in products and services and get training sessions vital to the strength of school nutrition program in Georgia. Don’t miss a chance to connect with your school nutrition peers in a relaxed and beautiful setting. You will have a wonderful opportunity to mix, mingle and make connections throughout this event. As the holiday season gets underway the lights on Lake Lanier will be the backdrop to our evening of entertainment. Watch the game by a fire pit or tour the lights with your new and old friends on the lake.

2017 GSNA Legislative Advocacy Conference • Atlanta, GA • February 7-8, 2017 • #GSNALAC17

The STRONG ROOTS that Georgia has planted as pioneers in school nutrition legislation need to be nurtured to continue our STRONG FUTURE. Lobbying for school nutrition is MORE important than ever! So join us as we prepare for the 2017 Georgia Legislative Session where we will let our collective voice be heard. We will plan our strategies and make connections with our legislators at the gold dome.

2017 School Nutrition Assistant Program (SNAP) • February 20th (Gainesville) • February 23rd (Macon) • February 24th, (Valdosta)

Plan to send your food assistants to this one day training session designed to fit the needs of school nutrition employees that actually work “in” the kitchen. You will have three opportunities to catch this exciting and motivating training session.

The GSNA 62nd Annual Conference • Jekyll Island, GA “Georgia Grown: A Peach to the Beach” • April 20-22, 2017 • #PeachtotheBeach17

Jekyll Island here we come! All of the Georgia Grown Peaches of school nutrition will be back on the beautiful island of Jekyll for our year end celebration of school nutrition. You will have opportunities to make connections, expand your knowledge and celebrate all things school nutrition. So pack your beach bag and join us as we honor our roots and celebrate the future of Georgia school nutrition.

2016-2017 Platinum SPonSorS aS of SePtember 2016 6

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

Shake It Up Pledge The Georgia Department of Education (GaDOE) School Nutrition Team has launched a state-wide initiative to enhance the flavor of school meals and improve the perception of Georgia School Nutrition Programs. We challenge you to take the Shake It Up Pledge. Watch the video at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=Lopuw3WrM-Q to learn more! Schools that meet their pledge will be invited to join us at a breakfast in their honor at the GSNAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Conference, April 20-22, 2017 in Jekyll Island. Each month GaDOE will release a training video with activity, recipes and resources. Sign up to receive the monthly newsletter by sending an email to ShakeItUp@gadoe.org. For more information, visit our webpage at shakeitup.gasnp.org

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Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

Around the State! GSNA District 1

Telfair County Elementary School honored their Staff during the 2016 School Food Service Appreciation Week. Under the direction of School Food Service Manager, Ronnie Kellam, the TCES Cafeteria Staff does a fine job of preparing nutritious and tasty breakfasts and lunches for almost 900 students everyday. Each of the TCES Cafeteria staff members received a gift certificate from Mr. Anthony McIver, TCES Principal, and Dr. Judy Wood, TCES Assistant Principal.

Treutlen County students enjoy watermelon from local Heath Farms for summer lunch. Farmer Cejay Heath delivered a truck load of fresh red and yellow watermelons for the children who participated in the Treutlen County School Nutrition Summer lunch program.

GSNA District 2

Students work in the Dougherty County Elementary School Garden.

GSNA District 3

Sumter County FCS scholars enjoyed tasting Cranshaw melon yesterday as part of our Fresh Fruits and Vegetables grant. Scholars described a flavor and texture similar to cantaloupe, but the uncut melon looked nothing like a cantaloupe! Here, Nutrition Manager Larry Jackson shows Mrs. Rebecca M. Brewer’s scholars the uncut Cranshaw melon.

Colquitt County School Nutrition BRAVO Award site winners, Wayne Hendrixson, Cox Elementary School Manager, and Anthony Clayton, Odom Elementary School SN Employee. BRAVO winners are recognized for “Balancing Responsibility and Achievement while Valuing Others.” Houston County Houston County School Nutrition Summer Feeding in Perry.

GSNA District 4

Spring into summer event our Gwinnett County School Nutrition Association booth.

The ABH Chapter participated in the GaDOE backpack challenge collecting and filling 60 backpacks with school supplies for needy children. Kathy Benton’s unit collected the most backpacks for school nutrition and we beat our challenge from last year. After turning in our backpacks to Superintendent Woods, we had an celebratory picnic.

Rockdale County Summer Feeding

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

Around the State! GSNA District 6

Carrollton City Elementary School Prekindergarten Breakfast in the Classroom is a big success! Teacher Mrs. Hines said “BIC is the best thing for her students and it gives her more instructional time in the morning.”

Children of Griffin-Spalding County picking up lunch at summer feeding site.

GSNA District 7

Cooking class from Cherokee County’s menu management class. TID 4.

National breakfast week is a winner at Cheatham Hill in Cobb County. Back to School in Fulton County!

GSNA District 8

Bacon County lunchroom staff was awarded for all they do by the manager and Primary School the whole week of School Nutrition Employee Week.

Real Life 101 Students in their school garden at Brantley County High School.

Coffee County partnered with City of Douglas at the Beach Bash handing out flyers on Summer Feeding.

Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

Around the State! GSNA District 8

Glynn County Summer Feeding program. Jeff Davis County Summer Feeding program.

Valdosta High, Tammy Russell, working at a TID 4 class.

GSNA District 9

Pierce County Dana Daniels and Yvonne Russell at summer in the city in Blackshear Ga promoting farm to school with Georgia grown blueberry juice.

Ware County students enjoying lunch in the park. Statham Elementary (Barrow County) students harvested radishes this past spring and Lottrell Sims lets the class try the radishes.

GSNA District 10

Columbia County - Baker Place Elementary NAC kids caring for the school garden during the summer.

Richmond County - Senator Harold Jones, Richmond County Board Member Ms. Patsy Scott, and Representative Earnest Smith attended the RCSNA Awards Banquet, an outstanding celebration to honor those employees, schools, administrators, and partners that work diligently and faithfully to ensure that Richmond County students have healthy and nutritious meals and snacks every day. In school nutrition, we all work together to be one excellent team that is strong and dedicated to providing nutritious meals to our students!

Seamless Summer Feeding at Chestnut Mountain Elementary in Hall County.

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

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S uperior

C A F E T E R I A

M A N A G E M E N T

T E C H N O L O G Y

Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

2016 Conference

President’s Award: District 8, Beverly Bagley, President

Culinary Arts Award: Creative Mators (Tomato) Entrée 1st Place: Carolyn Luke, Brantley County

Georgia Peanut Commission Culinary Competition Breakfast 1st Place: Kathy Brown Douglas County

April 14-16

Savannah, GA

Culinary Arts Award: Creative Conebread (Cornbread) 1st Place: Wayne Hedrixson, Colquitt County

Culinary Arts Award: Creative Tator (Sweet Potato) 1st Place: Shirley Smith, Douglas County

Peanut Usage: Grady County SNP – Mallory Barrett, Director

Georgia Peanut Commission Culinary Competition Lunch 1st Place: Julia Thomas, Douglas County

Georgia Peanut Commission Culinary Competition Peanut Snack 1st Place: Carol Winters, Treutlen County

Fall 2016

GSNA 2016 President’s Award District Eighth District - Beverly Bagley President GSNA 2016 President’s Award Local Carrollton City - Terri Grice, President Director of the Year Nicole James C.C., SNS, MBA, Director - Butts County SNP Dr. Josephine Martin Award of Excellence Shana Wood, Houston County Naomi Tolbert Central Office Support Award 1st Place - Jean Bragg, Bulloch County 2nd Place - Christy Stokes, Houston County 3rd Place - Jan Walker, GaDoe Manager of the Year 1st Place - Celeste Williams, Coffee County 2nd Place - Janice Stephenson, Rockdale County 3rd Place - Carole Thrower, Carrollton City Employee of the Year 1st Place - Shanta Lawson, Houston County 2nd Place - Teresa Longo, Rockdale County 3rd Place - Carita Parks, Carrollton City Malcolm Quillen Nutrition Hero Award Marilyn Cothern - Coffee County Middle School, Coffee County Wellness Award Annette Bomar Hopgood (GaDoe) Chapter Teresa Stevenson, President Best Chapter Participation Award Coffee County Scholarships and Grant-in-Aid Dr. Josephine Martin Scholarship Keisha Williams, Haralson County Jane Lofton Scholarship Brenda Enyart, Paulding County SeKethia Lewis, Sumter County Grant-in-Aid Brenda Enyart, Paulding County Children of Members Scholarships Erin Wehunt, daughter of Malynda Wehunt Cherokee County Kevin Keve, son of Rhonda Keve, Grady County Melia Morris, daughter of Debra Morris, Jackson County

Georgia Gems

Culinary Arts Awards Creative Conebread (Cornbread) 1st Place - Wayne Hendrixson, Colquitt County 2nd Place - LaShandra Johnson, Muscogee County 3rd Place - Mary Tibbitts, Paulding County Creative Mators (Tomato) Entrée 1st Place - Carolyn Luke, Brantley County 2nd Place - Cynthia Anderson, Dougherty County 3rd Place - Debbi Bray, Rockdale County Creative Tator (Sweet Potato) 1st Place - Shirley Smith, Douglas County 2nd Place - Carole Thrower, Carrollton City 3rd Place - Tammy Mathis, Forsyth County GA Peanut Commission Categories Breakfast Category: 1st Place - Kathy Brown, Douglas County 2nd Place - Helen Sellars, Grady County 3rd Place - Dare Howze, Lowndes County Lunch Category: 1st Place - Julia Thomas, Douglas County 2nd Place - Carol Ramirez, Griffin Spalding County 3rd Place - Cheryl Mason, Grady County Snack Category: 1st Place - Carol Winters, Treutlen County 2nd Place - Janet Howell, Harris County 3rd Place - Deborah Watford, Lowndes County Peanut Usage: Grady County SNP - Mallory Barrett, Director Marie McGlaun ALIRT Award National Contacts for District District Eight - Beverly Bagley, President National Contacts for Local Chapter Bacon County - Linda Wright, President State Contacts for District Chapter District Four – Pam Stone, President State Contacts for Local Chapter Rockdale County – Judy Compton, President NAC Art Contest First Place K-5 Category Bulloch County – Nevils Elementary – Dravyn Mantz First Place 6-8 Category Jones County, Clifton Ridge Middle School – Maggie Young First Place 9-12 Category Candler County – Metter High – Rachel Boyette 13

Georgia Gems

Nutrition Advisory Council (NAC) of the Year The Healthy Eagle NAC - Baker Place Elementary, Columbia County, Rita McDonald, Advisor Let’s Move! Literary Consortium 1st Place - Joel Langford, Barber Middle Sch., Cobb County 2nd Place - Chloey Cox, Treutlen Middle Sch., Treutlen Cnty 3rd Place - Hailey Fariel, Rockmart Middle, Polk County President’s Plan of Action Scroll Award Recipients District Chapter Name Scroll President 2 Thomas County SILVER Marie Ragan 2 Tift County SILVER Ashley McMillian 2 Grady County BRONZE Becky Carroll 2 Second District GOLD Jill Paul 3 Sumter County BRONZE Susie Rhymes 3 Houston County GOLD Mary Land 3 Muscogee County GOLD Susan Funderburk 3 Third District GOLD Diane Monts 4 Rockdale County GOLD Judy Compton 4 A.B.H. (GaDOE) GOLD Teresa Stevenson 4 Fourth District GOLD Pam Stone 4 Gwinnett County GOLD Pepper Stout 5 Atlanta Public Sch. RISING STAR TiSharkie Allen 6 Clayton County SILVER Magdiel Phillips 6 Fayette County SILVER Brenda Strickland 6 Jones County SILVER Martha Baggarley 6 Butts County GOLD Ruth Fewell 6 Carroll County GOLD Sandra McCormick 6 Carrollton City GOLD Terri Grice PRESIDENT’S AWARD 6 Griffin Spalding Cnty GOLD Carol Ramirez 6 Sixth District GOLD Nicole James 6 Thomaston Upson Co. GOLD Sherry Maddox 7 Cobb County SILVER Heather Satterfield 7 Haralson County SILVER Yvonne Timmons 7 Cherokee County GOLD Ramona Pruitt 7 Douglas County GOLD Ella Hall 7 Paulding County GOLD Judy Kropfelder 7 Seventh District GOLD Julia Thomas 8 Glynn County SILVER DeAnn Deaton 8 Valdosta City SILVER Antoniette McCoggle 8 Ware County SILVER Dana Taylor 8 Bacon County GOLD Linda Wright 8 Brantley County GOLD Tory Grace

Fall 2016

8 Coffee County 8 Eighth District 8 Jeff Davis County 8 Pierce County 9 Barrow County 9 Gainesville City 9 Hall County 9 Forsyth County 9 Jackson County 9 Ninth District 10 Columbia County 10 Tenth District 10 Richmond County

GOLD Dana Wilson GOLD Beverly Bagley PRESIDENT’S AWARD GOLD Sandra Carver GOLD Suzanne Clark SILVER Kim Mitchell SILVER Teresa Wiley SILVER Sandy Entrekin GOLD April Cox GOLD Andy Gentry GOLD Trae Cown BRONZE Angela Sharp BRONZE Angela Sharp GOLD Yvette Ferrell

2016 Leadership Academy Graduates Jannet Bibb, Houston County April Cox, Forsyth County Jennifer Dickie, Douglas County Andy Gentry, Jackson County Ella Hall, Douglas County Tisa Jones, Atlanta Public Schools Dawn Martin, Fulton County Tammy Mathis, Forsyth County Nakeitha McKinney, Griffin Spalding County Michelle Miller, Columbia County Katrina Salaam, Fulton County Membership Recruit for Loot Karol Tullis, Hall County Linette Dodson, Carrollton City US Foods “Throw Down in the Low Down” Picnic Package Theresa Duffy, Glynn County SNA Pac 50/50 Drawing Stephanie Robinson, Muscogee County Industry Silent Auction Basket Mark Conoly, Mobile Fixtures

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

Director of the Year: Nicole James, Butts County

“School Meals-Keep Them Growing” is the goal of the Butts County School Nutrition program. Under the direction of our 2016 Director of the Year, Chef Nicole James the importance of healthy nutritious meals for each student is what matters. Nicole and her employees take seriously the goal to provide nutritious meals for each student. Nicole’s career in school nutrition started at the food assistant level so she has a unique perspective on what works and getting things done. As a School Nutrition Director, Nicole has implemented new recipes and given countless hours of training to her staff. As a Chef, she demonstrates and practices with the staff ways to prepare and present attractive food efficiently. A mentoring program has been implemented in all schools to help new employees learn the ropes of a school kitchen. Nicole is a “hands on” Director, and is present in each kitchen several times a week and often fills in as a cashier. Nicole has worked on new menu items with local industry, such as a spicy chicken soft taco that was a big hit. Implementing new recipes using low sodium spices has helped

increase the lunch participation to 91% system wide and breakfast to 65%. Her county was also awarded a $12,000 grant for her middle and high school to implement a “Grab and Go Breakfast” Nicole James, Butts County program that increased participation by 20% at the middle school and 68% at the high schoool.

While doing all these wonderful things as Director in Butts County, Nicole has chaired and organized the state Culinary Competition for YEARS! This competition has grown to be a highlight of the GSNA Awards and under her leadership it has grown in participation and achivevement. She is clearly a wonderful role model for her staff and has completed her education and professional certifications while working full time and encourages this in her employees.

Manager of the Year: Celeste Williams, Coffee County Celeste Williams’ passion and leadership is on display at Satilla Elementary School. The students and staff can see why she has been awarded GSNA’s 2016 Manager of the Year. Celeste has a great focus on the food she serves. She implemented a new system of scratch-cooking to provide healthier menu items, but she also likes to make the cafeteria fun, she encourages staff to dress up for holidays and invites special guests to serve lunch, including local fire fighters and the city mayor. Williams works with school faculty members to decorate the school walls to highlight monthly cafeteria promotions. A team leader, Williams serves as a mentor to her staff members. She has increased efficiency by introducing a new scheduling system and ensuring her staff is well trained. Her personal training style allows employs to easily change unacceptable behaviors or processes as she kindly suggests new ways to do a task. This consistent, calm, teaching technique has been a welcome and accepted by her staff. Customer service is Celeste’s second nature. She offers monthly parent lunch invitations which she pays for personally. She is the queen of collecting free prizes for monthly student give -a-ways. She has gotten all kinds of donations, favorites have been bicycles, toy baskets and games. For the past two years, she and her staff have donated food for the Weekend Snack Back Pack program

to help children in need. She is a school team member. She helps teachers teach topics such as yeast development and kneading properties of bread and then she follows up with Celeste Williams, Coffee County kitchen tours. She uses tours to point out to students the special brands of foods that are popular in the local restaurants. Her involvement as an active member on the school council exemplifies her service to the school as she and her staff volunteer to work at every school event. Her rapport with her administration is evident by the $1000 promotion budget given by the principal for her nutrition program. Celeste is known for her volunteering and was recognized by local business leaders in 2015 for her selfless and numerous hours of volunteering with the “Service Recognition Award”. We are happy to have Celeste as our 2016 Manager of the 15 Year!

Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

GSNA Employee of the Year and SNA’s Regional Employee of the Year for the Southeast Shanta Lawson, affectionately known as Ms. Tae-Tae, a food assistant at Perdue Primary School in Houston County believes that what happens in the lunchroom doesn’t stay in the lunchroom, and that it affects children many years from now. That belief is what makes Shanta the 2016 Employee of the Year. Shanta not only teaches students about eating nutritious foods and advises each child to eat half a cup of fruit and or vegetables during lunch and exposes them to new vegetables such as kale and cauliflower. She knows that what she’s teaching students will help them long term. “As they grow older, they’ll know the things that they’re supposed to eat and the things they’re not supposed to eat. They’ll make better choices in life, as far as health-wise, with food,” says Lawson. But her manager, Kelly Reese, says she does a lot more than serve her students during lunch. Reese nominated

Shanta because of her acts of kindness inside and outside the lunchroom. “She’s paid for meals, and she’s bought clothes, and she’s combed hair,” says Reese. These are things that Shanta doesn’t Shanta Lawson, Houston County have to do but feels compelled to do for the good of the children. Tae-Tae’s main mission is to love these children,” states Houston County School Nutrition Director Meredith Potter.

2016 Josephine Martin Award for Excellence: Shana Wood, Houston County The Josephine Martin Award of Excellence is the highest state honor, named for one of our most revered school nutrition advocates and leaders. In 2016 GSNA awarded the honor to someone that is well on the path to great leadership in school nutrition. Shana Wood, MS, RD, LD – Coordinator, Houston County School Nutrition has shown herself to be a trailblazer and innovative advocate of school nutrition and children. Leaders need to be insightful and practical and Shana Wood is both! As Coordinator in the Houston County School Nutrition Program she has implemented programs and created training manuals that have streamlined the program and saved money. Her Substitute Food Assistant Hiring and Training Program was created to improve the quality of substitute employees. The program of hiring substitutes similar to “speed dating” netted the county more and better qualified candidates. It also earned her district a state and regional USDA Best Practice Award and saved $4,000. She created an in-depth school nutrition specific procedure manual containing more than 150 procedures that has improved managers’ confidence and independence and standardized annual processes. 16

Shana spearheaded the early adoption of the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) program in Houston County. And now that the Community Eligibility Provision has been implemented Shana Wood, Houston County in 10 schools–participation has increased, paperwork has decreased and thousands of dollars has been saved. Knowing that team morale is a key part of her leadership role, she hosts system-wide “Biggest Loser” competitions, organizes ride-alongs in summer-feeding vans and works with the Board to recognize award-winning employees. Shana Wood shows nothing but focus and dedication to her team and to advocating for school nutrition! Shana is a great representation of the kind of person that should receive the Dr. Josephine Martin Award of Excellence...she embodies the spirit of this award with her insightful, innovative and successful work in school nutrition.

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

2016 Naomi Tolbert Central Office Support Award: Jean Bragg, Bulloch County Everyone that knows our 2016 Naomi Tolbert Central Office Support Award winner, Jean Bragg knows she is “Dedicated to the Program.” It is evident in everything she does. She is constantly finding ways to make the school nutrition program the best it can be. All of the school nutrition employees in Bulloch County as well as many neighboring counties have enjoyed the help and services of Jean Bragg! She is a constant computer resource person for all the administrators, from Power Point to Excel. Jean is always willing to go above and beyond in her duties of manager and cashier training, spending countless hours helping new managers with grocery orders and production records. She also shares her teaching abilities and spreadsheets with other counties and has presented the information at a

GASBO session. Jean uses her talents to help the program advance dramatically. She has been known to come in on any night or weekend when a deadline or project calls for it. She has organized Jean Bragg, Bulloch County and conducted public sales of surplus and outdated equipment, including computers. Her knowledge and expertise is appreciated and acknowledge by all and she is the epitome of “Support.”

2016 NAC Art Winners K–5, Dravyn Manz, Nevils Elementary, Bulloch County

6-8, Maggie Young, Clifton Ridge, Jones County

9-12, Rachel Boyette, Metter High, Candler County

Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

Corporate Members as of October 1, 2016 ACC Distributor’s, Inc. AccuTemp Products, Inc. Acosta Sales & Marketing Advance Pierre Foods Aspire Beverages Atrium Packaging Bake Crafters Food Company Borden Dairy Company Brazeal Consulting LLC Bridgford Foods Corporation Brookwood Farms, Inc. Buena Vista Foods C K Brands, Inc. / Basil Boss Cavendish Farms CGA Charles Pace & Associates Inc. Citisco, Inc. Cohen Food Brokerage ConAgra Foods Country Pure Foods CTB Foodservice Cybersoft PrimeroEdge Dessert Innovations, LLC Dexter’s Farm Dippin’ Dots Domino’s Pizza Smart Slice Don Lee Farms Ecopax ES Foods Food Service Applications, Inc.

Form Plastics Company General Mills Georgia Grown Georgia Peanut Commission Georgia Power Company Gordon Food Service Gregory Packaging, Inc. Hadley Farms, Inc. Harris School Solutions Heartland School Solutions Hobart Corporation Horizon Software International, LLC HumiTEC Corporation Integrity Foods, Inc. Island Oasis J & J Snack Foods J. M. Smuckers Company JTM Food Group Kellogg’s Kent Precision Foods Group, Inc. Key Impact Sales & Systems, Inc. Lagniappe Sales Land O’ Lakes Inc. Learning ZoneXpress Manning Bros Food Service Equipment Master Marketing Mayfield Dairy Farms, Inc.

Meals Plus/Education Mgmt Systems MealViewer Mobile Fixture and Equipment Co., Inc. GA Division Nardone Brothers Baking Co., Inc. National Food Group, Inc. NatureSeal, Inc. Norvell Fixture & Equip. Co., Inc. Nutri-Link Technologies, Inc. Pacific Northwest Canned Pear Service Paramount Marketing Group PCS Revenue Control Systems, Inc. PepsiCo FoodService Perdue Foods, LLC Plas-Tique Products, Inc. PMR, Inc. Premier Equipment Group, Inc. Prime Pak Rich Products Corporation Royal Food Service SAM Service, Inc. Samples Institutional Foods SaniTech Systems School Nutrition and Fitness Schwan’s Food Service, Inc.

SEMA, Inc. SFSPac Food Safety & Sanitation Systems SICO America, Inc. Smart-Temps Southeast United Dairy Industry Association Southern Press & Packing, Inc. StyroGreen Recycling, LLC Sun Butter LLC Sunny Food Service Sunny Sky Products, LLC The Core Group The Dannon Company The Hansen Group TriMark Strategic True Food Service Equipment Uniform Sales America LLC Unox, Inc. US Foods Vulcan Waypoint Whaley Foodservice Williams Institutional Foods Winston Industries

Fall 2016

Georgia Gems

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Georgia Gems

Fall 2016

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GSNA 2016 Annual Conference

2372 Main St. Tucker, Georgia 30084

GSNA Thanks Our 2016-2017 Sponsors (as of September 2016)

Platinum Sponsors

www.facebook.com/BridgfordFoods twitter.com/BridgfordFoods

www.facebook.com/ horizonsoftwareinternational

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2017 Annual Conference “Beach Bonanza” Celebration

Gold Sponsor

NSLW Kick Off Luncheon

Malcolm Quillen School Nutrition Hero Award

Industry Seminar Continental Breakfast