Category Archives: Professional Profiles

General, Professional Profiles

Paul Kadri on the Use of Data to Improve Student Achievement

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Paul Kadri, a 16-year public school administrator, has been on the forefront in designing data systems to help schools improve student achievement. In this interview, Paul Kadri shares important information to consider when establishing a new system.

ZRYLW: Thank you for taking time to share your thoughts on improving student achievement.

Paul Kadri: It is my pleasure. This is a critical topic for success in education.

ZRYLW: People have noted that you have a lot of experience in data systems. Tell us more?

Paul Kadri: You can’t have a good system without technology. I have a deep interest in technology, and I enjoy finding ways for technology to help organizations. Turning data into valuable information is critical to success. I’ve been involved in doing this for quite a while.

ZRYLW: When did you develop your expertise in technology?

Paul Kadri: My undergraduate degree is in electrical engineering. I focused mostly on computer science and specifically on artificial intelligence. Back then, we were exploring the limits of computers in replicating what humans do.

ZRYLW: And you carried that interest into your career?

Paul Kadri: I did. My first job was with IBM, and aside from learning a tremendous amount about the technology, they helped me understand the many ways in which technology can help organizations. I have been taking that skill and applying it in all of my jobs, whether in the private or public sectors.

ZRYLW: What made you focus on data and information?

Paul Kadri: It is readily understood that an organization that has valuable information has a much greater chance of success than one that doesn’t. Creating a system that gives employees, at various parts of the organization, information that helps them do their jobs more effectively is the ultimate goal.

ZRYLW: You believe the same holds true in education?

Paul Kadri: Probably more than any other industry. Helping students reach their potential is a very complicated process that can only become easier if good information is available.

ZRYLW: You’ve been quoted as saying that education is data rich and information poor. Is that true? What does that mean?

Paul Kadri: It is absolutely true. When you think about it, we have data on everything in education. We give state tests, local tests, chapter tests, quizzes, standardized tests, etc. What happens to all that data? Many teachers will get this data and be asked to interpret it and apply it in how they deal with their students. The difference that can exist between how one teacher looks at data versus another can be dramatic.

ZRYLW: How does the data system help with that problem?

Paul Kadri: A data system allows these data elements to be organized in a way that makes valuable information both reliable and valid. If set up correctly, a teacher can get information that requires little interpretation but offers valuable insights on how to best impact the students.

ZRYLW: Doesn’t this take the teacher out of the valuable part of data interpretation?

Paul Kadri: That is a common misconception. Interpretation should not take place at the end; it should be done in the beginning. In other words, when you are setting up the way the system will organize the data, you have key stakeholders involved to make sure they agree with what is taking place. After that point, interpretation is done and information is automatically distributed for consistency.

ZRYLW: Once you get this established, do you ever revisit it?

Paul Kadri: Absolutely. On a regular basis you revisit your assumptions and how you organized your data and make sure it is giving you valuable information. You change things if you think they can be improved.

ZRYLW: To conclude, can you describe your ultimate goal when establishing a data system?

Paul Kadri: The best way to do that is by offering an example. If a teacher has an hour of time, I would like them to spend as much of that hour helping their students improve. We know that valuable information helps the teacher, but at what cost when it comes to using part of that hour? A good data system is valuable information to the teacher without taking more than a minute or two of that hour.

Paul Kadri was last superintendent of the Groton public schools in Connecticut. In addition to his expertise in data systems, Paul Kadri is also known for his extensive knowledge of school finance and site-based budgeting. For more information about Paul Kadri, visit his website at aboutpaulkadri.com.

 

Professional Profiles

Inspirational Senior Stories from Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon: Dolly Parton

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Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon serves as the CEO of Bonaventure Senior Living. In this brief Q&A, Hamilton lauds Dolly Parton as an inspiration for all seniors. According to Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon, Ms. Parton is widely recognized for her talents as a singer, songwriter and actress. More importantly, says Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon, she has served her countrymen as an activist and charitable fundraiser.

Q: Where was Dolly Parton born?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dolly Parton was born one of 12 children to a rural Appalachian family. Her humble beginnings bolstered her commitment to helping others.

Q: How did Dolly’s career begin?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dolly moved to Nashville soon after graduating from high school.

Q: What was her first major accomplishment?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dolly Parton’s career took off when she began collaborating on duets with Porter Wagoner. She appeared regularly on The Porter Wagoner Show.

Q: She’s had a number of hits…

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dolly accumulated a slew of Number One country singles, 25 in total.

Q: What were some of her notable accomplishments?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Famous Dolly Parton hits have included “I Will Always Love You,” “Jolene,” and “Coat of Many Colors.” She received the coveted Female Vocalist of the Year award from the Country Music Association twice.

Q: But Dolly Parton didn’t stop there…

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Not at all! Dolly showed her creative range by accepting movie roles in the 1980s.

Q: Where would audiences have seen her?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Her most notable role was in the film, 9 to 5.

Q: What other interests did Dolly pursue?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: She opened her theme park called Dollywood in 1986, which is located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Thousands of families flock to the Smoky Mountains destination each year.

Q: Dolly loves to give back, from what I read…

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Yes. Dolly has been involved in a number of charitable organizations throughout the years. They serve a wide variety of individuals.

Q: Can you tell me what is Dolly Parton’s favorite cause?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dolly is widely heralded for her work with literacy programs.

Q: What are some examples?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: In 1995, she formed the Imagination Library. The program sends a book each month to children until they enter kindergarten.

Q: Are there other organizations that Dolly has helped?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Yes, actually… Dolly Parton has offered her time and money to many other organizations. Examples include the Save the Music Foundation and the Barbara Davis Center for Childhood Diabetes.

Q: What other interests does Dolly Parton have?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dolly also holds a special interest in natural wildlife.

Q: Has Dolly Parton been recognized for her efforts?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Dollywood received a Partnership Award in 2003 from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The park was honored for its work towards the protection of the bald eagle.

Q: What would you say makes Dolly Parton special?

Kelley D. Hamilton, Salem Oregon: Her hard-working attitude and zest for life inspire people of all ages. Seniors should be encouraged to follow their own dreams because of her success.

 

For Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon, senior adults like Dolly Parton prove that life doesn’t end at a certain age. Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon, often uses these examples of famous seniors to motivate residents. Kelley D. Hamilton of Salem, Oregon recognizes that staying active after retirement is the key to a long, healthy life.

 

Professional Profiles

David Contarino: Investing in the Progressive Future of New Mexico

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David Contarino David Contarino explains Rainbow Vision Santa Fe, where he has owned two units as investment properties and was an investor in the original development corporation.

Along with wife Linda, David Contarino owns several LLCs that rent properties in New Mexico to various tenants. The couple have owned multiple properties through the years and have profited by investing at the right time, reaping commercial rent payments to cover property

costs, and selling at the right time. Here, David Contarino offers information about Rainbow Vision Santa Fe—a retirement village tucked in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains and targeted to gay and lesbian seniors. The couple, aside from being the initial investors in the community, have owned two condos in the development.

Why the LGBT community?

David Contarino explains that as a growing percentage of American seniors spend their retirement years with a life partner, investing in a nontraditional retirement facility seemed logical. Understanding that the aging population was more and more open about their sexual orientation, Linda and David Contarino happily accepted the challenge. The couple believes that everyone should have a place where they feel accepted.

Service and amenities

Rainbow Vision Santa Fe, remarks David Contarino, has all of the amenities of a mainstream retirement living center, and plenty of perks, too. David Contarino reports that one of the first features visitors comment on is the view. Rainbow Vision is located with a full panorama of a seemingly never-ending row of peaks as diverse as the men and women who live there. After that, David Contarino says the campus’ luxury and elegance speaks for itself.

David Contarino notes that Rainbow Vision Santa Fe offers several models of one- and two- bedroom apartment homes, Garbos– a fine dining facility operated by an executive chef, Starlight Lounge—a full bar with happy hour,  the Billie Jean King Fitness Center & Spa, and the whimsically named Edward Scissorhands Salon. According to David Contarino, Rainbow Vision Santa Fe boasts a calendar full of activities that allow residents to mix and mingle.

Living options

David Contarino explains that Rainbow Vision Santa Fe is fully equipped to care for active seniors through independent, transitional and assisted living options.

The Chelsea Village Independent Community or Club Condo Living options offer residents full or limited membership to the center’s many facilities. A full membership includes access to Rainbow Vision’s clubhouse, takeout from Garbo’s, housekeeping and transportation. David Contarino explains that residents in this level of care are responsible only for phone and Internet connection. David Contarino also notes that basic cable is included. Independent living guests may purchase other services individually, says David Contarino.

David Contarino explains that the intermediate level of care is transitional living. This is for seniors who wish to remain active but don’t want to slow down to cook and clean up after meals. According to David Contarino, transitional living allows for full independence.

Fully licensed, Castro Assisted Living is located on the second level of the El Centro Clubhouse, says David Contarino. Castro residents enjoy 24/7 staffing and an exclusive dining room with three chef-prepared meals per day.

From its open-air courtyard to its deluxe décor, David Contarino truly believes there is no senior living facility better equipped to meet the needs of active seniors. And, as the needs of the LGBT population grow, David Contarino feels this investment serves to exemplify the progression of the American West.

David Contarino is a Democratic political consultant based out of Louisville, Kentucky. His love for New Mexico comes from his 17 years living in Santa Fe and Taos amid the high altitude desert and soaring peaks of the Sangre de Cristo mountains.

Professional Profiles

Matt Schilit on Professional Reading as Vital for School Leaders

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Matt Schilit knows that as an educator, he has a responsibility to never stop learning. After receiving his bachelor’s degree, he began working toward a master’s in educational administration, graduating in 2003. But having a master’s wasn’t enough—Matt Schilit is currently attending classes at the University of South Carolina, where he will soon earn his educational specialist degree.

Even when he isn’t in school, Matt Schilit is still learning. Ever the reader, he is always searching for books that can help him grow as an educational administrator and leader. Here are a few books Matt Schilit recommends for anyone working in the field of education today.

  • The Shark and the Goldfish by Jon Gordon—According to Matt Schilit, this book centers on the mind’s power over our success, pointing out that even during tough times, those who believe in themselves will prevail. Matt Schilit explains that Gordon uses a fable of a goldfish that learns to find food from a shark to illustrate how the difference between a full and empty stomach depends on a person’s belief in himself or herself.
  • The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon—This book focuses on the importance of productivity, Matt Schilit explains, offering 10 rules to refuel every aspect of a person’s personal and work life by using positive thoughts. Matt Schilit is a firm believer in the power of positive thinking and The Energy Bus provides great words to live by.
  • The 21 Indispensable Qualities of a Leader by John Maxwell—For leaders like Matt Schilit, this book highlights the qualities of a good leader on which readers can model their own work styles.

Matt Schilit states that the leadership qualities he exhibits in his work today have been bolstered by reading the works of Maxwell and Gordon. Not just for principals, Matt Schilit believes these books are must-reads for anyone in an educational leadership role, including everyone from teachers to school superintendents.

The books above are especially helpful because they focus on how to become a leader worth following. According to Matt Schilit, they also help leaders deal with the ever-changing field of education. As school administrators, Matt Schilit believes it is important to be innovative, change with the times, and work with a variety of personalities, all while keeping in mind that students come first.

Since 2012, Matt Schilit has served as coordinator of data and testing for the Allendale County School District in Fairfax, S.C. In this capacity, Matt Schilit oversees testing and reporting for the school district.

Professional Profiles

Kelley D. Hamilton Examines Connection Between Food and Dementia

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Kelley D. Hamilton is the co-owner and chief executive officer of Bonaventure Senior Living. Bonaventure is a family of companies devoted to providing outstanding living communities for senior adults in the Western United States.

Kelley D. Hamilton is interested in any issues that concern senior adults. Over the years, Kelley D. Hamilton has collected facts to aid him in his goal of providing senior adults with information to help make their golden years the best years of their lives. Sometimes, the issue of dementia comes up when Kelley D. Hamilton discusses senior living options with prospective residents and their family members.

Kelley D. Hamilton has discovered some interesting facts about diet and its possible effects on dementia. The common assumption is that memory loss is an unavoidable part of aging, but Kelley D. Hamilton found some studies that suggest a change of diet may help protect against mental decline.

Dementia is associated with long-term inflammation in the body. Kelley D. Hamilton learned that many experts believe foods with prominent anti-inflammatory properties may be able to delay age-related cognitive disorders. Norwegian researchers found dark chocolate and red wine increase blood flow to the brain and may protect against conditions like dementia.  Kelley D. Hamilton suggests buying dark chocolates with low sugar and high cocoa content and drinking no more than one glass of red wine per day.  As in everything, Kelley D. Hamilton says moderation is key.

Kelley D. Hamilton also learned researchers found senior adults with low levels of vitamin B12 had a greater risk of Alzheimer’s. Three servings of oily fish a week significantly lowered the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Kelley D. Hamilton found that salmon is an excellent source of omega-3, vitamin D and B12 and can help prevent neurodegenerative disorders. Kelley D. Hamilton advises the purchase of wild salmon whenever possible. Two or three servings of oily fish each week will supply the body with inflammation-fighting properties.

Other alternatives for obtaining B12 that Kelley D. Hamilton suggests are fish, shrimp, oysters, scallops, beef liver and other animal liver. Folate deficiencies have also been found to increase the risk of developing dementia. To prevent folate deficiency, Kelley D. Hamilton suggests adding asparagus to meals. Other brain foods Kelley D. Hamilton recommends include beans, cauliflower, beets, citrus fruits, lentils, broccoli, spinach and other leafy green vegetables.

Blueberries, strawberries and raspberries contain antioxidants and other properties that help reduce inflammation. Dementia and Alzheimer’s, Kelley D. Hamilton learned, have found to be related to both brain oxidative stress and inflammation.

Kelley D. Hamilton discovered that plaques in the brain are thought to contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. A Mediterranean diet is considered helpful in combating plaque. Many curry dishes contain turmeric, which is an effective substance that removes plaques from the brain. Countries with populations that eat curry regularly report lower rates of dementia. Adding dishes with turmeric into weekly menus may help ward off dementia.

Kelley D. Hamilton says quercetin, found in apple skin, has been discovered to protect the brain from damages associated with Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. In order to enjoy good health throughout those golden years, Kelley D. Hamilton suggests that senior adults should heed their mother’s advice by eating spinach, plenty of vegetables and an apple a day.

Marketing, Professional Profiles

Trident University Environmental Health Students: Leaders of the Future

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Environmental Health is powerfully represented in the College of Health Sciences at Trident University. Trident University is answering current needs and future prospective growth in the environmental science and health arena. Trident University has developed a BSHS and a Graduate Certificate with a concentration in Environmental Health Sciences. The professors at Trident University are highly accomplished professionals, with Environmental Health background and expertise.

Trident University professor, Dr. Frank Gomez has served as a nationally-recognized subject matter expert in food safety, community noise control, and health effects of housing, as well as for numerous national professional certification/licensure examinations for many years.

With a PhD in Environmental Health Science and Policy, Trident University professor, Dr. David Turbow has collaborated with the regulatory community and non-governmental agencies as a scientist and policy analyst to help facilitate their water pollution prevention planning efforts.

Trident University professor, Dr. Heidi Sato, who holds a PhD in Health Sciences from Trident University, has worked as an epidemiologist for Los Angeles County Environmental Health Division and the Acute Communicable Disease Control Unit, and has served as an expert witness for high-profile foodborne disease outbreaks.

Trident University professor, Dr. Rania Sabty-Daily, who holds a PhD in Environmental Health Sciences, has worked in the private sector and consulting and has researched environmental hazards and children’s health and has published work in occupational health and exposure assessment.

The air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, as well as the homes we live in, and the places we work at – all aspects of our natural and manmade environment – have an impact on our health. Interactions between humans and the environment can give rise to a variety of diseases and health conditions, from asthma or cancer to breaking news, such as outbreaks of West Nile Virus, Bio-/agro-terrorism (intentional tainting of food), E-coli in bags of spinach or lead in children’s toys.

Environmental health is a unique field of study because of its science background and the diversity of subject matter areas covered that are required to be mastered by the practicing professionals in this field. Trident University students examine applicable laws and regulations and also gain a wealth of information on cutting edge technologies used to remediate pollution of air, water, and soil. Knowledge of areas such as food safety, water and wastewater protection and management, solid waste management, vector control, community and occupational noise control, epidemiology, housing, and radiation control are all subjects that environmental health specialists work with on a daily basis.

Trident University courses are developed to complement a student’s science-based background so that they may become a desired person for employment in this field. These courses provide the students at Trident University with knowledge and the skills that they will need as practitioners in the field. The environmental health programs at Trident University also offer students a broad, in-depth, and “hands-on” perspective on issues facing environmental health. Trident University’s courses offer students “virtual” hands-on experience in the world of the environmental health specialist.

For example, in Trident University’s, Food Protection Course, Trident University students are given the opportunity to conduct a virtual environmental health investigation of a restaurant. Students at Trident University learn how to assess validity of a foodborne illness complaint, conduct a virtual inspection at a restaurant, identify factors that may have contributed to the foodborne illness, and identify corrective actions for food code violations. Trident University’s, Vector Control Course, provides the student at Trident University the opportunity to learn about a variety of vector borne diseases and how to implement vector control programs.

In Trident University programs, Trident University students explore the human health impacts of environmental contamination, as well as preventative measures available to keep those problems from reoccurring and they apply critical thinking skills to address real world environmental health issues. For example, the type of public health action that is occurring in Haiti with respect to food, water, and resources came about as a multi-organizational emergency response to an unpreventable natural disaster. Many Trident University students are being deployed to aid in the relief efforts.

Graduates of Trident University’s environmental health programs will be well-versed and prepared to address the many important challenges ahead of them in their service to country and community. Trident University students will be prepared to become future leaders in tackling real world environmental health issues by enhancing strategic visioning and direction-setting skills through critical thinking and analysis.

Professional Profiles

Q&A with Casa Sandoval – Memory, Aging and Exercise

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Everyone has forgotten what they came in a room for or where they put their car keys. For seniors, however, memory loss can be a special concern. The professionals at Casa Sandoval have done the research and found factors that can help a diminishing memory. Today, the staff at Interviewing Experts had the opportunity to ask Casa Sandoval a few questions about memory, aging, and exercise.

Q: What do you find can cause memory loss in seniors?

Casa Sandoval: We know that there are some chemical and physical changes that happen as the brain ages. At Casa Sandoval, though, we find that keeping the brain engaged and exercised can make a big difference.

Q: How so? “Exercised,” meaning what exactly?

Casa Sandoval: Things like crossword puzzles, books, music, engaging with friends and family, and critical thinking are all things that help keep the brain engaged.

Q: What about television?

Casa Sandoval: Actually, the staff at Casa Sandoval might advise against too many hours of TV. It’s passive and doesn’t demand that much engagement from the viewer.

Q: What about senior adults who are living independently at home?

Casa Sandoval: We recommend that older adults go through and reorganize their homes from time to time. Cutting clutter in living space can mean a lack of clutter in mental space as well.

Q: Does exercise have benefits for memory?

Casa Sandoval: Yes, absolutely. Exercise increases blood flow, meaning better oxygen supply to the entire body, including the brain. Casa Sandoval offers a yoga program for our residents, incorporating stretches and deep breathing that can help clear the mind and improve focus.

Q: Are there dietary connections?

Casa Sandoval: Yes, absolutely. At Casa Sandoval, we’ve read up on the latest studies that find connections between Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and brain health.

Q: Which foods are those found in?

Casa Sandoval: Omega-3’s and antioxidants are found in nuts, berries, leafy greens, and coldwater fish like salmon.

Q: I’ve also heard things about folate…

Casa Sandoval: Yes, folate is a great vitamin for mental growth. It’s found in foods like spinach, onions, and legumes.

Q: What else can senior adults do to keep their brains active?

Casa Sandoval: Self-testing can be quite helpful. Taking part in quizzes and games that actively test the brain are both great ideas for seniors.

Q: Do you offer activities that can help with memory?

Casa Sandoval: Yes, at Casa Sandoval we have game nights when residents can play cards, Scrabble, or other board games, all of which can help keep the brain active. Even the Wii video games can contribute to the maintenance of mental acuity.

Q: Any other advice?

Casa Sandoval: Yes, in addition to keeping the brain active, don’t forget to give the brain some rest, too. Quality sleep and rest time are crucial for keeping the brain functioning properly.

Casa Sandoval is a full service retirement community in Hayward, California. At Casa Sandoval, the emphasis is on active lifestyle and independent lifestyles. The staff at Casa Sandoval is well-respected for their attention and outstanding level of care for all residents. Feel free to call Casa Sandoval at 510-727-1700 or have a look online at casasandoval.com. In addition, prospective residents are welcome to tour Casa Sandoval and stay for lunch.

Professional Profiles

Peter Spittler Architectural Services Provides Program Management Services

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Peter Spittler Architectural Services understands that construction and development projects are complex and require profound attention to detail and laser-sharp focus on timelines and resources.  In the following Q&A, Peter Spittler Architectural Services describes the essential role of the Project Manager.

Q:  Describe how the Project Manager fits within the overall design and build process.

Peter Spittler Architectural Services:  During a construction project, an architect assigned by Peter Spittler Architectural Services will work closely with the construction project manager in the office of the General Contractor, while at the same time coordinate the work of the design team and consultants, and manage communications with the client.  With this many balls in the air, it is essential that the Peter Spittler Architectural Services team has someone dedicated to ensuring the project is on-track as related to timelines, resources, and quality; this is where the Project Manager comes in.

Q:  It sounds like the Project Manager Position is a big responsibility.  What experience do Project Managers require?

Peter Spittler Architectural Services:  Yes, this position carries tremendous responsibility and requires the right skills and personality to ensure project success.  The Project Managers at Peter Spittler Architectural Services are experts in their field with extensive experience in architecture, engineering and construction.  They are licensed architects, with the know-how to oversee even the most complex projects.

Q:  Is the Project Manager only involved in the final implementation/build of a project?

Peter Spittler Architectural Services:  No, depending on the project, Project Managers can be involved in projects from initiation, all the way through design, construction, and occupancy.

Q:  Other than the architectural experience, what are some of the most important characteristics of a strong Project Manager?

Peter Spittler Architectural Services:  Project Managers must have exceptional communication skills.  They must be able to lead and direct the work of their colleagues at Peter Spittler Architectural Services, interact with high-level, fastidious clients, and relay project needs, challenges, and solutions in a thoughtful, thorough and timely manner.  In addition, a great project manager must possess uncommon attention to detail.  The flow, pace, and overall quality of each project is dependent on the Project Manager’s ability to track, schedule, and advise team members throughout the project’s duration.

Q:  Finally, what does a typical day look like for a Project Manager at Peter Spittler Architectural Services?

Peter Spittler Architectural Services:  Well, there really is no typical day at Peter Spittler Architectural Services!  The Project Manager oversees the day-to-day functioning of project teams and is the go-to person on any given project the team is working on.  They may be working with a team to coordinate a program committee, developing schedules for multiple projects, or advising team members on budget issues related to any given project.  For certain, Peter Spittler Architectural Services’ Project Managers love what they do and are never bored doing it!

Peter Spittler Architectural Services is located in the Cleveland, Ohio area.

Professional Profiles

The Balancing Act’s Gregory Fake Gives Back Through Prison Ministry

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For his day job, Gregory Fake is an assistant television producer of the award-winning show that empowers women, Balancing Act.  In his free time, Gregory Fake can be found in a Florida prison and jail, counseling incarcerated men.  While this may appear to be an unlikely extension of Gregory Fake ’s expertise, it isn’t–he is very much committed to, and inspired by, giving back.

“Like many men, I returned to the church when I had my family,” explains Gregory Fake.  “It’s critical to raise children with core values that prepare them to face life’s challenges,” continues Gregory Fake.  Through the local Presbyterian Church, Gregory Fake began volunteering in prisons and jails and with work-release ministries.  That was ten years ago and he is still giving back.  Since beginning his volunteer work, Gregory Fake says has learned and grown tremendously from his experience.

Prison and jail life is completely foreign to most of American society, but Gregory Fake has learned to get past the stark environment and accept the inmates as people in need of love and forgiveness, just like everyone else. There, Gregory Fake provides counseling, advice, and a listening ear for inmates of all criminal backgrounds. “Oftentimes, inmates fall back into addiction or criminal behavior, but this is common on the road to accepting forgiveness and creating a path toward a brighter future,” says Gregory Fake.  He is there for inmates, whether or not they have lost hope in themselves.

While Gregory Fake has given a lot of himself to the inmates he has served, he has also gained in return.  “I am inspired by the inmates’ honesty about their struggles,” says Gregory Fake.  Working with inmates has taught Gregory Fake that there are no challenges in his own life that are too great to overcome.  “But it takes work, sometimes a lot of work,” Gregory Fake concedes.  Helping inmates move forward against all odds motivates and encourages Gregory Fake to continue this important volunteer work, despite his often demanding television production schedule.

Gregory Fake, whose career includes consultancy for Fortune 500 companies, banking law, and television production, received a BA in Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and a JD from Georgetown.  Gregory Fake lives with his wife and two children in Pompano Beach, Florida, where he enjoys the outdoors and spending time with his family. 

Professional Profiles

Winterset Woods, a Scott Sohr-Developed Community in Nolensville, Tennessee

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For families looking for a quiet place to raise their kids and enjoy a more relaxed pace of life, Nashville-based developer Scott Sohr says there’s no better choice than Winterset Woods in Nolensville. This neighborhood located right in the middle of Williamson County—one of the fastest growing and most prosperous counties in America, according to Scott Sohr, and combines the charm of small-town life with elegant homes and a tight-knit community feel.

The homes in Winterset Woods are both ideal for families and also stunning in their own right, says Scott Sohr. These upscale showpieces feature crisp architectural lines, tree-lined lots, and beautiful landscaping—as well as breathtaking interiors with modern creature comforts and appliances. Scott Sohr reports the neighborhood also has tons of amenities for families, young couples, and children to enjoy, including a clubhouse, two swimming pools, a children’s pool, a playground, and wide open grassy areas for impromptu games of soccer, baseball, or just lounging around and enjoying a picnic.

According to Scott Sohr, part of what makes Winterset Woods so appealing for families is its school system. Children who live in the neighborhood are zoned for Williamson County Schools, which is one of the best school districts in the state for test scores, achievement measures, and college preparation, reports Scott Sohr. Winterset Woods is also only a 10-minute drive away from I-65, which makes it convenient for parents who work in Franklin or Nashville.

Developer Scott Sohr says that Winterset Woods features a total of 172 homes, and the sense of community is very strong. That is reflected by the city itself, as Nolensville is well known for its small-town charms as well as its safe and friendly atmosphere.

Homes in Winterset Woods are priced from $329,000 to $429,900 and are available in eight different floor plans, so there’s truly something here for every family, concludes Scott Sohr.

 

Nashville investor Scott Sohr is linked to several high-end residential properties in the Middle Tennessee area. His passion is developing warm and inviting communities that feel like home with all the amenities of a private retreat. In addition to Winterset Woods, Scott Sohr is active in Arrington Retreat and Courtside at Southern Woods, both luxury developments with exceptional amenities.

Scott Sohr got his first taste of entrepreneurship in sales while studying Materials Engineering at Auburn University. He soon expanded his interests to real estate. After purchasing several pieces of land in the Burton Hills neighborhood, Scott Sohr quickly learned how to spot a lucrative deal, which led to the formation of Elmington Capital Group – a privately held firm with properties across the southern United States.

Scott Sohr is the Chief Manager at Elmington Capital Group. Scott Sohr founded the firm in 2010 and quickly assembled a team of top industry professionals who have grown it to span several states and manage large commercial and residential buildings.

Scott Sohr is married with four children and considers his family to be his most important development.