Highlighter Fall 2015

Fall/Winter 2015 | 3 EXECUTIVE CORNER Well, it’s official: The holidays are upon us! T his time of year always presents a chance to reflect and wonder about many things; for example, how did we get here so fast? We can also take stock and think about how the past year shaped us. What was good? What did we celebrate? What road blocks did life challenge us with, and what are we grateful for? Personally, I am thankful for my family and the dear friends I have made throughout my life. These relationships are timeless and always fill me with happiness when I think about the memories that we share. Another relationship I deeply cherish is my history with Pond. Next year will mark my 27 th year with the company, and every year I am excited to welcome new faces to our family. As you know, one of our company’s core values is to give back to the community, and we do this in many ways. Our employees generously donate to the Wounded Warrior Project, and your contributions are matched by the firm. We also give back through volunteerism and mentoring others within professional associations. We all play an important part in keeping the core values of the firm vibrant and at the forefront of our interactions with clients and friends. I enjoy learning about some of the individual commitments that Pond employees have to selfless acts of kindness. For some, this level of commitment is staggering. For example, Chris Jenkins commits every year to organize Pond’s CANstruction entry. While it exhibits our design and engineering prowess, the competition literally provides tons of food for the Atlanta Community Food Bank, so those with so little can have food on their table in the winter months. Pond’s commitment to CANstruction is deeply rooted in our company culture; from the staff competitions, to the team that donates time to build the sculpture each year… Hundreds of people benefit from your collective generosity! Through years of hard work and dedication, Jim Turner has earned the position of Skilled Supervisor for Habitat for Humanity. Jim organizes teams of people and together, they build homes where families can begin and nurture their own holiday memories and traditions. And if we didn’t think George Fragulis was busy enough managing projects and welcoming his third daughter, he also volunteers for Engineers Without Borders. This organization puts great minds to work on some of the most pressing issues around the world; things we take for granted like water, sanitation and power. Just this week, Tyler Neal sent an invitation to all of us to volunteer with Pride for Parents. This program provides parents who are struggling with making ends meet an opportunity to provide holiday gifts for their children at a greatly reduced cost. Being able to do so gives these parents a sense of pride and ownership, and their kids experience the joy of opening a brand new present that’s just for them. Mark Susa and his family donate their time to Wreaths Across America and lay holiday wreaths for fallen soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. This gracious act provides families across America the comfort of knowing their loved ones who sacrificed everything are not forgotten. Last year they laid 7 wreaths for Pond employees’ family members, and will participate again this year on December 12. Maybe climbing on roofs or stacking rows of canned goods isn’t your way of choice to give back to the community; however, think about how you CAN make a difference this holiday season, large or small. Throw an extra dollar or two in the Salvation Army red kettle as you shop; donate some old towels to your local Humane Society; or, Toys for Tots is always a great opportunity to share some holiday joy! Most importantly, count your blessings. Be thankful for your family, friends, health, and the fact that you work with a great family who believes that the “Spirit of Giving” is universal. n Happy Holidays! Tony Parker, President