Former GE execs discuss Atlanta as a tech hub
Jeff Immelt, the former CEO of General Electric, praised Georgia Tech during a talk at the Sept. 16 meeting of the Rotary Club of Atlanta.
“Georgia Tech is awesome. You’ve got one of the finest institutions,” Immelt said. “You’ve got to make Georgia Tech have an even greater role than it does today…. As great as Georgia Tech is, it can be even better.”
Then speaking to venture capital representatives in the room, Immelt said “Atlanta has to create an ecosystem because you are not going to get as much money that’s in Silicon Valley.”
Immelt then said Atlanta should leverage its place as a center for cyber security, but he said it would be hard to compete with Silicon Valley when it comes to AI.
However, Mark Begor, CEO of Atlanta-based Equifax and a former GE executive, pushed back, saying that Atlanta and Equifax have developed a strong AI community.
Rotarian Larry Williams, president and CEO of Technology Association of Georgia, during the Q&A portion, said that Georgia Tech has more graduates working in AI than any other university in the country, according to a 2024 analysis.
In fact, the Wall Street Journal just listed Georgia Tech as the second-best public university in the country and the ninth-best college overall.
Begor said that in the six years he’s been CEO at Equifax, Atlanta has attracted investment from top technology companies, including Google, Facebook, and Microsoft. “This is a big tech town,” Begor said.
To that, Immelt said: “There’s a certain snobbery in California, and you have to forget about that.”
— Maria Saporta
RAM needs volunteers in Stone Mountain
Remote Area Medical (RAM) — a nonprofit provider of pop-up clinics delivering free, quality dental, vision and medical care to those in need — is seeking volunteer medical, dental and vision professionals and general support staff for its Dec. 6 to 7 clinic. The two-day clinic is to be held at Berean Christian Church in Stone Mountain.
RAM is also in need of general support volunteers to help set up on Thursday, Dec. 5 and take down on Saturday, Dec. 7. Overnight parking volunteers to greet patients are also needed, and interpreters can volunteer to aid patients through the process, either in the parking lot or during clinic operations. Individuals do not need to work in the medical field to volunteer as general support.
If you or your organization would like to volunteer your time to help provide free healthcare services to the Stone Mountain and surrounding communities, please visit the RAM website at or call them at 865-579-1530.
— Derek Prall
Know a good way to honor Mayor Shirley Franklin? Let the commission know
The commission to determine an appropriate way to honor Mayor Shirley Franklin, is asking for the public’s help.
Atlantans can visit City Hall on Tuesday, Sept. 24, at 6 p.m. to give their input during a meeting inside the Marvin Arrington, Sr. Council Chamber.
Suggestions to honor Franklin began in June from the commission on how to honor Atlanta’s first female mayor.
During her term, Franklin introduced several programs and initiatives, such as the Clean Water Atlanta initiative and the Mayor’s Youth Program.
— Allison Joyner
“Watermarks” design exhibition on display at Young Harris College
A blend of many different media looking at the rivers and streams of Southern Appalachia is on display at the Young Harris College Campus Gate Art Gallery through September.
The art exhibit, “Watermarks,” is the creation of Ted Whisenhunt, chair of the Young Harris College Art Department. A paddler, Whisenhunt focused on the waterways of Appalachia as part of his second Masters of Fine Arts degree, which he completed in 2023 in Graphic Design, from The Vermont College of Fine Arts.
“…I wanted to look at the different watersheds in the area and study them from different perspectives,” Whisenhunt said. “I studied the different signs you see in the water, depending on the background and interpretation — a hydrologist versus a biologist versus a chemist. The waterways around us shape the landscape and culture of Appalachia, so I wanted to study that and reflect that here. I wanted to capture what is seen and unseen, from chemical data to spiritual meaning to cultural meaning.”
The exhibit is open through Sept. 26 at the gallery, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 5149 College St, Young Harris, Ga.
— Derek Prall
Dad’s Garage presents “Mother, May I Sleep With Improv” and “Murder, She Improvised!”
Loosely based on the original made-for-television movie, Mother, May I Sleep With Improv is the hilariously improvised, so-bad-it’s-good show that revels in its own absurdity and takes plot points exclusively from audience suggestions! Don’t miss this return to childhood sick day viewing and the side-splitting amusement that comes with it. Shows are Saturdays at 8 p.m. from Oct. 5 to Nov. 9.
Also keep an eye out for audience favorite Murder, She Improvised returning next month. This completely improvised whodunnit features a new theme every week, but one thing is always certain: Murder. Solve and laugh along with them Fridays at 8 p.m. from Oct. 4 through Nov. 15.
Dad’s Garage Theatre is located at 569 Ezzard St in Atlanta. Tickets for both shows are $25 and are available on their website.
— Derek Prall
Health Connect South and U.S. life expectancy
A top official from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration said life expectancy is on the decline in the country.
That decline is occurring even without the loss of life due to COVID and the opioid pandemic.
“The United States is doing worse than anybody among our peer nations,” said Hilary Marston, chief medical officer for the U.S. FDA, at the 2024 Health Connect South gathering on Sept. 18. “We also are paying so much more” for healthcare than our other peer countries.
Marston attributed that to the uneven distribution of healthcare across the county and to the number of adults in the United States who are living with chronic diseases. Part of the problem has to do with the closure of rural hospitals.
“We are falling short in the delivery of care,” she said.
The FDA and health companies are trying to work collaboratively on solutions to improve healthcare, she added.
— Maria Saporta
Georgia River Network hosts river paddle excursion on Flint River in South Georgia
The Georgia River Network is hosting their annual Fall Float on the Flint Paddle Trip from Oct. 4 to 6. Participants will take to their canoes and kayaks through the weekend and paddle down the Flint River, starting in Newton and ending near Bainbridge.
This year marks the eleventh anniversary of the fall trip. The excursion includes camping, catered meals, educational workshops, and speakers; it is designed for paddlers of any age to enjoy.
“It’s a crowd favorite so we keep coming back year after year. It’s arguably one of the prettiest paddle routes in the state,” said Paddle Georgia Coordinator Joe Cook, according to a press release from the Georgia River Network.
The excursion was inspired by Georgia River Network’s annual Paddle Georgia event, which takes place every summer.
— Mark Lannaman
Atlanta Men’s Health Summit to be held at Ebenezer Baptist Church
In conjunction with Diabetes Awareness Month, Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, and Veterans Month, the Men’s Health Network and Ebenezer Baptist Church are hosting the Atlanta Men’s Health Summit on Saturday, Nov. 16 at Ebenezer Baptist Church between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.
A variety of experts will lead discussions about the physical and mental health of our most at-risk citizens and ways to reduce the gender mortality gap that continues to grow at an alarming pace.
— Derek Prall
HealthMPowers today announced the appointment of three new board members
Atlanta-based HealthMPowers recently announced the appointment of three new board members.
- Hari Athreya: medical director at Crossover Health
- Álvaro Saldarriaga Arcila, a student at McClure Health Science High School
- Pratima Yellayi, a student at South Forsyth High School
The new board members include the co-chairs of HealthMPowers’ Youth Advisory Board (YAB), who will play a vital role in keeping the Board of Directors informed about the needs and perspectives of Georgia’s youth. In addition, the appointment of a primary care physician will continue the acute focus on child health.
“I could not be happier to welcome the new members to the board, especially as we continue to amplify youth voices and center child health to create healthier environments,” said Jennifer L. Owens, President and CEO, HealthMPowers. “Their expertise and commitment will strengthen our efforts to make a lasting impact on the well-being of Georgia’s children and families.”
— Derek Prall
Hammonds House opens Rhoden sculpture garden during ribbon cutting ceremony
The Hammonds House Museum will open its permanent John Rhoden Sculpture garden to the public during a ribbon-cutting ceremony tomorrow.
The exhibit provides an outdoor setting for visitors to engage with the ten pieces created by the artist.
“John Rhoden’s career was shaped by his connections to educators and exhibition opportunities in Atlanta during his lifetime and makes it especially appropriate that his artistic brilliance will be on view for Atlanta audiences now and into the future,” said Brittany Webb, curator for the Twentieth Century Art and John Rhoden Collection at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts.
The ribbon cutting will be from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Click here for more information.
Pause Studio set to open at Avenue at East Cobb in October
Pause Studio recently announced the opening of its first franchise location outside of California this fall in East Cobb. Offering a range of modern and holistic wellness services backed by science, local entrepreneurs Lisa and Evan Benson are excited to bring the acclaimed lifestyle brand to Atlanta.
“It’s been our passion to open a state-of-the-art wellness studio in our own backyard, helping us realize our vision of providing the community with modern, holistic lifestyle solutions that nurture both mind and body,” says Franchise Owner Benson. “Our mission is to lead Atlanta’s wellness space through unparalleled service, education, and by offering approachable and affordable solutions that empower everyone to live healthier, happier lives.”
Combining science-backed technologies with holistic healing modalities, Pause East Cobb will offer a variety of innovative wellness treatments, including floatation therapy, infrared saunas, LED light therapy, IV therapy, contrast therapy, cryotherapy, and naturopathic medicine. These services are designed to complement one another, providing a truly unique wellness experience with all modalities conveniently available under one roof.
— Derek Prall
South River Forest receiving more attention
The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to protect the South River Forest in late August.
The resolution takes note from recommendations in the 2023 Explore the South River Forest document developed by the Atlanta Regional Commission, advocating for protections of the forest and collaboration between governments to do so.
“We are laying the groundwork for a legacy of environmental justice and sustainability that will benefit not just the surrounding area, but the entire county,” said Dekalb Commissioner Ted Terry (Super District 6) in a press release.
The resolution hopes to be a foundation for collaboration between DeKalb County, the City of Atlanta, and the Atlanta Regional Commision to transform 3,500 acres in Southeast Atlanta and Southwest DeKalb County into one of the city’s preserved and revered natural resources.
“The South River Forest vision provides a “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity to expand our greenspace network and preserve what would become one of the largest urban forests in the Atlanta region,” said City Councilmenmber Jason Winston in the Explore the South River Forest document.
— Mark Lannaman
Hermés Americas executive named SCAD’s new executive in residence
Robert “Bob” Chaves, the executive chairman of Hermés Americas, has been named the Executive in Residence at the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) during its 2024-2025 academic year.
In his new role, Chavez will visit classes at both Savannah and Atlanta campuses in Georgia and Lacoste, France, where he will review student portfolios and offer them mentorship opportunities.
“Bob is a visionary leader in the international luxury space and a longtime champion of SCAD who will bring tremendous expertise and insights to the university’s esteemed academic programs,” said Jason Fox, Chief Academic Officer for SCAD.
Chaves has been the executive officer of Hermés Americas for almost 25 years, overseeing all business interests in the U.S. and Latin America and overseeing the growth and expansion of 48 boutiques in the Americas region.
“Working with the faculty and exceptionally talented students at SCAD is a true honor, and I thank President Paula Wallace for this wonderful opportunity,” Chaves said.
— Allison Joyner
APS receives award for outstanding financial reporting from the Association of School Business Officials International
For the 15th year in a row, Atlanta Public Schools received the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting (COE) from the Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) International for the 2023 fiscal year.
The award recognizes districts that have met the program’s high financial reporting and transparency standards.
“Communicating the financial and economic state of a district is so important when engaging with the school community and building their trust,” said Jim Rowan, Executive Director for ASBO International. “Districts that receive the COE Award have demonstrated their ability to do that at the highest level.”
Rowan added that the COE has been the gold standard in promoting and recognizing excellence in financial reporting for over 50 years.
— Allison Joyner
The Center for Puppetry Arts to host world premiere of “Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote” during Hispanic Heritage Month
The Center for Puppetry Arts recently announced the world premiere of “Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote,” a new puppetry adaptation of Duncan Tonatiuh’s award-winning children’s book. The show will open on Sept. 19.
As a city with a strong and growing Hispanic population, Atlanta is the ideal backdrop for a story which delves into the immigrant experience with heart and authenticity. The production is not only timely with current discussions around immigration, but it’s also essential in fostering discussions about migration, community, diversity, and belonging.
“Pancho Rabbit and the Coyote is a powerful story about family, courage, and the struggles of finding a better life, themes that resonate deeply with audiences of all ages,” said Beth Schiavo, executive director of the Center for Puppetry Arts. “We’re honored to bring this world premiere to Atlanta, offering families an unforgettable experience that celebrates Hispanic heritage and sparks important conversations about the immigrant journey.”
— Derek Prall
Alliance Theatre elects Kendrick Smith as new board chair
Yesterday, the Alliance Theatre announced that it has chosen Kendrick Smith as its new Chair of the Board of Directors for a two-year term.
Smith is a retired trial and litigation lawyer who has served as chair of the Executive and Board Engagement Committee on the board of directors for eight years.
“Kendrick’s enthusiastic embrace of the Alliance Theatre’s mission inspires all of us lucky enough to work alongside him,” said Mike Schleifer, Managing Director for the Alliance Theatre.
In his new role, Smith will lead the theatre through a series of projects, including opening the Goizueta Stage for Youth and Families, which is estimated to be completed in 2026, and completing the theatre’s Imagine Endowment campaign, which has raised $7.2 million of its $10 million goal.
— Allison Joyner
Russell Family Enterprises names Mona Garland chief people officer
Russell Family Enterprises, the umbrella company that supports H.J. Russell and Company and others, appointed Mona Graland as its new chief people officer.
Garland will help the organization lead the human capital and employee experience initiatives for the companies, hoping to make them one of the best places to work.
“Mona’s proven track record in scaling HR operations while preserving the core values that have driven our success will be instrumental,” said Dan Bowman, CEO of Russell Family Enterprises. “She will help us strategically advance the Russell legacy and navigate the complexities of growth.”
He added that Garland brings over 25 years of experience to the company and a wealth of knowledge and expertise from her work with global market leaders in the technology, manufacturing, logistics, and services industries.
— Allison Joyner
City of Refuge’s annual ‘The Gathering’ event set for October
On Oct. 17, City of Refuge will once again bring together hundreds of the nonprofit’s supporters for a night of fellowship and food at its annual The Gathering fundraiser.
Set to take place at The Foundry at Puritan Mill, this year’s event will reinforce City of Refuge’s ongoing mission to bring light, hope and transformation to the organization’s Westside community, inspiring others to join in the effort. With the theme of “Building a Future of Hope and Joy,” the organization will showcase foundational stories of impact from the last year, while highlighting recent milestones.
“The small church that once housed City of Refuge has grown into a true community, with our campus on Joseph E. Boone Blvd. having served as a home and haven for thousands of individuals looking for a way out of crisis,” said Bruce Deel, founder and CEO of City of Refuge. “With this year’s The Gathering, we want to keep breaking down those barriers and create pathways that enable our residents and our Westside community’s most vulnerable individuals an opportunity to thrive.”
Last year, the event raised over $1,000,000, which was instrumental in bolstering key programs and services provided by the City of Refuge, including housing, job training, medical care and educational facilities.
— Derek Prall
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