It was a terrific afternoon of connection, inspiration, and community pride at the first monthly luncheon of 2026.

Our speaker, Tod Miller of JRM Management, gave us insight into the family business many of us recognize for producing some of the largest events in North Georgia — including the North Georgia State Fair, the Georgia Food & Wine Festival, and Taste of events throughout Marietta, Kennesaw, Acworth, and Smyrna.

What many may not realize is the depth of JRM Management’s commitment to giving back. A Sprayberry alumnus, Tod had to move quickly to cover the remarkable number of causes they support and the significant dollars they return to the community. His goal was not to boast, but to lead by example. Their behind-the-scenes philanthropy serves as a powerful reminder that when we serve our community, business success can follow as a natural outcome.

Lunch from Adriane’s Delectables was, once again, a hit. The London broil stole the show. We want to issue one more thank you to our lunch sponsor, Big Blue Swim School, and to CEO Woody Alpearn and local manager Megan Bushey for their support of this month’s luncheon.

I also shared a little of my background and an overview of the work underway to support a new era of growth and success for NCBA. I publish Northeast Cobb Neighbors and Woodstock Neighbors magazines, which connect neighbors and help businesses connect with these affluent homeowners through print, digital, listings, and website solutions.

Congratulations to Kathy Winiarczyk, recipient of the 2025 Volunteer of the Year Award. As Credit Union of Georgia’s local representative, Kathy continues to support NCBA year after year.

Finally, our interns stepped into new responsibilities and, as always, demonstrated that there is indeed a talent pool of future leaders in our local high schools.

Clear options designed to strengthen engagement across Northeast Cobb

As part of its relaunch, the NCBA has introduced new membership bundles designed to better support businesses located in or serving Northeast Cobb and East Cobb.

These updated options reflect a more intentional structure—one that simplifies participation for business owners while ensuring that those who invest in NCBA are fully connected to the organization and its business community.

Why the membership structure was updated

Previously, sponsorships and memberships were offered as separate purchases. As part of the relaunch, NCBA intentionally streamlined the options, eliminating "sponsorships" and creating membership levels instead.

This approach simplifies choices for business owners, adds value for those who invest in NCBA, and aligns benefits with meaningful engagement rather than one-time visibility. It also supports the long-term sustainability of the association, allowing NCBA to operate efficiently while remaining focused on its core mission: serving the Northeast Cobb business community.

What members can expect

NCBA’s membership bundles are designed to provide clear, defined benefits tied to participation in the association. Depending on the bundle selected, members may have access to:

• Opportunities to connect with other local business owners and professionals

• Visibility within the Northeast Cobb business community

• Participation in programs, events, and leadership pathways

• A stronger connection to NCBA’s mission and initiatives

What else is new

As part of the updated membership bundles, NCBA has also introduced several enhancements designed to encourage deeper participation and visibility within the association, including:

• Additional memberships included at higher support levels, allowing more than one person from a business to be actively involved

• Complimentary lunches included with select membership bundles for added convenience at monthly meetings

• Increased sponsor visibility, with expanded recognition across events, communications, and NCBA platforms

These updates are part of a broader effort to ensure NCBA remains relevant, professional, and member-driven as it moves forward.

Current and prospective members are encouraged to explore the updated options and choose the membership bundle that best fits their level of involvement.

Learn more on our Join NCBA page, or contact us with any questions—we’re happy to help.

A refreshed identity for Northeast Cobb’s business community

The Northeast Cobb Business Association (NCBA) is proud to announce the launch of a new brand and logo as part of our organization-wide relaunch focused on serving local businesses more effectively.

This updated brand reflects who we are today: a member-driven business association supporting businesses located in or serving Northeast Cobb. The refreshed look is modern, professional, and intentional—designed to better represent our mission, our members, and the momentum we are building together.

Why we updated our brand

Our previous branding no longer reflected the scope or direction of NCBA. The new logo and visual identity emphasize:

• A clear Northeast focus, representing our geographic community

• A clean, modern design that aligns with today’s business environment

• A professional presence that supports member credibility and growth

More importantly, this update signals a broader recommitment to purpose, sustainability, and business-first leadership.

What members can expect

You’ll begin seeing the new NCBA brand across:

• Our website and member communications

• Event signage and materials

• Social media and marketing outreach

This refresh is one of several strategic improvements underway as we rebuild NCBA into a strong, relevant, and valuable organization for business owners and professionals in Northeast Cobb and East Cobb.

To learn more about our mission, leadership, and direction, visit our About Us page.

As part of the Northeast Cobb Business Association’s relaunch and renewed focus on serving our members, NCBA has officially transitioned to a new website and member management platform powered by Wild Apricot.

This move is a strategic step forward — one designed to improve efficiency, strengthen communication, and ensure long-term sustainability for the association.

Why We Made This Change

After careful evaluation, the Board determined that Wild Apricot best supports NCBA’s operational and member-service goals. The platform allows us to:

• Centralize membership records, renewals, and event registrations

• Improve email reliability and member communications

• Simplify event signups and payments

• Ensure NCBA-owned data remains secure and accessible

• Reduce ongoing costs so more resources go directly toward programming and member value

This transition helps us operate more effectively while delivering a better experience for our members.

What Members Can Expect

As we complete the transition, you may notice:

• A refreshed website layout

• New login credentials or password reset prompts

• Minor changes in how events or memberships appear

These updates are normal during a platform migration and will continue to improve as the system is finalized.

If you experience any difficulty accessing your account or registering for an event, we appreciate your patience and encourage you to reach out so we can assist promptly.

Part of NCBA’s Relaunch Effort

This technology upgrade is one piece of a broader relaunch initiative. In the months ahead, members can expect:

• Clearer member benefits and communications

• More purposeful programming and partnerships

• Improved consistency across events and outreach

• A renewed focus on helping local businesses connect, grow, and thrive

We are building a stronger foundation for NCBA’s future — and this platform supports that vision.

Thank You for Your Support

We appreciate your understanding during this transition and thank you for being part of NCBA’s next chapter. Your engagement and involvement are what make this organization strong.

If you have questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us.

The Northeast Cobb Business Association (NCBA) hosted its December luncheon in Marietta with a leadership message that resonated long after the meeting concluded.

Each December, Dr. Dwight Ike Reighard, Senior Pastor of Piedmont Church, shares an inspirational message designed to encourage local business leaders as they enter a new year. This year’s message focused on leadership, growth, and hope — offering practical wisdom and timely perspective.

For those who were unable to attend, here are a few memorable takeaways from Dr. Reighard’s remarks:

• “The day your memories are greater than your dreams, you’re dead in the water.”
  A reminder for leaders to remain forward-looking and committed to growth.

• “Change is inevitable, but growth is optional.”
  Effective leadership requires choosing growth, even when change feels uncomfortable.

• “As a leader, you have to define reality.”
  Clarity and honesty are essential, particularly during times of uncertainty.

• “Find hope.”
  Sometimes the simplest message is the most powerful.

NCBA extends sincere appreciation to Piedmont Church for hosting our monthly luncheons in their Conference Center and for their continued investment in strengthening the Northeast Cobb business community.

About Dr. Dwight “Ike” Reighard

Dr. Dwight “Ike” Reighard serves as Senior Pastor of Piedmont Church and President & CEO of MUST Ministries, one of North Georgia’s largest nonprofits addressing poverty, hunger, housing, and workforce development. He has been named among Georgia Trend Magazine’s Most Influential Leaders and is the author of several books, including Treasures From the Dark and Discovering Your North Star.