Piedmont Park Conservancy Welcomes 2022 New Board Members

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy welcomes four new members to their board of directors: Louisa Basarrate, Chris Buettner of Cox Enterprises, Allen Roberson of Sage and James A. Squires of Norfolk Southern Corporation.

The Conservancy looks forward to working with these new board members to keep Piedmont Park thriving for the Atlanta community.

Biographies:

Louisa Basarrate

After a 20+ year career in non-profit development, marketing and management, followed by time as a stay-at-home mom, Louisa Basarrate currently volunteers and enjoys living in both Atlanta and San Francisco. She is a native of Nashville, Tennessee. Louisa is married to Armando Basarrate and the mother of Sophie Basarrate (23).

Louisa achieved designation as a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) for accomplishments in professional practice, education and community service. Her previous organizations included Atlanta Speech School, Shepherd Center, Jerusalem House, AID Atlanta and SunTrust Bank.

She is engaged in her local communities including cultural organizations such as: Open Hand Atlanta, San Francisco Ballet, High Museum, Metropolitan Museum, DeYoung/Legion of Honor, Atlanta Botanical Garden, and Atlanta Ballet.

Chris Buettner

After a career on the digital agency side that spanned 20+ years, Chris Buettner now leads the Marketing and Brand team at Cox Enterprises, working on a broad range of initiatives from employment brand efforts to attract top talent to the company’s diverse family of brands to marketing strategy for new business focus areas like Cox Cleantech.

In his current role, he is also helping to bring Cox’s social impact vision to life of positively impacting 34 million lives by 2034, an initiative that allows him to combine many of his personal passions in areas such as education and environmental stewardship.

Prior to Cox, he led an international network of top digital marketing agencies focused on the future of marketing and digital experiences, expanding the international reach of the organization from 15 to 42 countries in five years. Chris lives in Decatur with his wife and two daughters – both of whom are proud alums of the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s summer camps.

Allen Roberson

Allen Roberson recently joined Sage as the Finance Director in November of 2021. Prior to Sage, Allen worked at International Hotel Group (IHG) for 15 years where he served as Head of Finance & Business Partnering; Commercial & Technology Products and Platforms. Allen also worked with IBM as a Corporate Internal Auditor and Sales & Distribution Financial Analyst.

Mr. Roberson possesses demonstrated passion for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I) through Community Partnership Committee leadership with the Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) and active member of the Out & Open LGBTQ+ ERG. He implemented blind resume reviews and diverse interview panels into the function’s recruiting process to improve the diversity of candidate interview slates.

Mr. Roberson currently serves as a valued member of Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Finance Committee.

James A. Squires

Jim Squires is chairman, president, and chief executive officer of Norfolk Southern Corporation (NYSE: NSC), a FORTUNE 500 transportation company whose railroad operates across 19,500 miles in 22 states, connecting businesses and communities to the marketplaces of the world.

Jim joined Norfolk Southern’s Law Department in 1992 and has held roles of increasing responsibility. They include vice president law; senior vice president law; senior vice president financial planning; executive vice president finance and chief financial officer; and executive vice president administration. Jim became president of the company in 2013 and was named chairman and CEO in 2015.

A native of Hollis, New Hampshire, Jim is a 1983 graduate of Amherst College and was an Amherst-Doshisha Fellow at Doshisha University in Kyoto, Japan. He earned his J.D. degree from the University of Chicago Law School, where he has served as a member of the Visiting Committee. He is a proud veteran of the U.S. Army.

Currently serving as chair of the Hampton Roads Community Foundation, Jim also has served as chair of the Association of American Railroads, as a board member of the board of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, as a trustee of the Sentara Healthcare System, and as chairman of Virginia’s Transportation Accountability Commission.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Over 650 Dogs Make a Splash to Support Piedmont Park Dog Parks

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On October 2 and 3, dogs and their owners filled the Piedmont Park Pool during the return of the 12th annual Splish Splash Doggie Bash. The Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted this special fundraiser that directly supports the maintenance of Piedmont Park Dog Parks. A great time was had by all as local dog owners and dog lovers gathered together for a weekend of fun to kick off the Fall season!

This event took place at the end of pool season, allowing the dogs to run free and let out all their energy in the Piedmont Park Pool. This made for some amusing photo opportunities and adorable moments between many different kinds of pups! Canine owners also had a great time as they were allowed to take their pets off-leash and witness the doggy party.

Various vendors added to the excitement by giving away free treats, toys and merchandise for participants. Park visitors observed from outside the pool and many took advantage of the walk-up registration. Splish Splash Doggie Bash 2021 was a huge success, registering over 660 dogs and raising over $20,000 for the Piedmont Park Dog Parks.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

 

Dogs were spoiled with pool toys and tennis balls during Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Splish Splash Doggie Bash 2021.

Owners created some lasting memories with pets, while supporting the maintenance of Piedmont Park Dog Parks. 

Over 650 dogs of all shapes and sizes were free to play off-leash over a fun-filled weekend.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Launches Safe Haven Fund at Landmark Luncheon

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At the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Landmark Luncheon on September 14, the Conservancy made an inaugural announcement of the Piedmont Park Safe Haven Fund. In response to increased concerns about safety, the fund will allow Piedmont Park Conservancy to financially support safety improvements recommended by the city of Atlanta and other public safety experts.

Themed “Together, We Grow,” Landmark Luncheon celebrated the strength of the Piedmont Park community and the park’s role as Atlanta’s green refuge. A socially-distant meal under individual tents allowed attendees to connect with the Conservancy’s mission while in comfort for their health and safety.

The 2021 Legacy Award Recipient is Penny McPhee for her work with the Arthur M. Blank Foundation. The Piedmont Park Conservancy gives thanks to the luncheon’s presenting sponsor, the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, and reception sponsor, the Coca-Cola Company. The event was hosted by Channel 2’s Lori Wilson.

Landmark Luncheon attendees were the first to be invited to donate to the Safe Haven Fund. The fund was announced to the public on Wednesday, September 15. A generous donor will match all gifts to the Safe Haven Fund from September 15 through September 30, up to $100,000. You may learn more about the fund at piedmontpark.org.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Guests enjoy Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Landmark Luncheon under socially distant, individual tents in beautiful Piedmont Park. CREDIT: DV Photo Video

Penny McPhee was honored with the Piedmont Park Conservancy’s 2021 Legacy Award at this year’s Landmark Luncheon. Pictured (left to right): Piedmont Park Conservancy President and CEO Mark Banta, WSB-TV’s Lori Wilson, and Penny and Ray McPhee. CREDIT: DV Photo Video

Aerial view of Piedmont Park Conservancy’s signature fundraiser, Landmark Luncheon.

Piedmont Park Conservancy Fundraisers Return with Picnic for Piedmont Park

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On July 14, over 400 guests came together with their picnic gear in support of the Piedmont Park Conservancy. After almost a year and a half without in-person events, Piedmont Park Conservancy hosted their first outdoor fundraiser in beautiful Piedmont Park. Picnic for Piedmont Park raised $70,000 to support the Conservancy’s mission to preserve and enhance the park, including landscaping, park beautification, offering free guided history tours, hosting a farmer’s market, maintenance of the dog parks and more.

From delicious catered food and craft cocktails to games and music, it was a fun summer evening in the green heart of Atlanta. Families, friends and pets all came together under the clear skies and setting sun to celebrate Piedmont Park.

You can learn more about the Piedmont Park Conservancy at piedmontpark.org. Following Picnic for Piedmont Park is the Conservancy’s annual Landmark Luncheon fundraiser on September 14, 2021. Tickets are now available.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Picnic for Piedmont Park guests enjoying their picnics in the greenery of Piedmont Park.

Guests of Picnic for Piedmont Park had over 200 acres of park space to spread out.

Giant family friendly games created a casual, fun vibe at Picnic for Piedmont Park.

Many furry friends were spotted at Piedmont Park Conservancy’s Picnic for Piedmont Park.

The Piedmont Park Conservancy is Rolling Up Its Sleeves

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Now that summer is here, Piedmont Park is busier than ever, and keeping it clean and green for all Atlantans is quite the challenge. As more people are getting vaccinated and feeling safe to come outside, that means more events and more foot traffic, which makes keeping the Park clean that much harder. The Piedmont Park Conservancy’s biggest challenge is to maintain a flourishing landscape despite the unpredictable Georgia weather and the pressing pedestrian litter.

Everyone knows that Piedmont Park is the city of Atlanta’s backyard, where anyone can exercise with their dog, throw a birthday party or pack a picnic date. Who takes care of that backyard? A crew of less than 10 landscapers, engineers and technicians maintain 90% of Piedmont Park’s 200 acres. While they are responsible for cleaning up after us every day, the Piedmont Park Conservancy heavily relies on community participation to keep the greenspace safe, clean and beautiful. Donations and volunteer work are integral to keep the Park operating.

Volunteers and staff are constantly kept busy this summer planting new flowers, renovating park benches and taking care of trees. However, the biggest threat to the landscape, the wildlife and park guests is litter. As guests flood in to enjoy their summer in the Park, they often leave behind litter.

While the Piedmont Park Conservancy works tirelessly with the city to keep up with trash collection and staff address litter in highly trafficked areas, Piedmont Park is depending on the community to act. First, asking Atlanta residents to be mindful by packing trash in and out, doing their best to leave no trace. Then, if you can go a step further, volunteer in the Park, donate and become a keeper of one of Atlanta’s most iconic and beloved greenspaces.

Those interested in supporting the Piedmont Park Conservancy with donations or volunteering can visit piedmontpark.org/support for more information.

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The Piedmont Park Conservancy is a member and donor funded nonprofit organization working in partnership with the City of Atlanta to maintain and enhance historic Piedmont Park. Founded in 1989, the Conservancy raises over $3.5 million annually to enhance and maintain the Park. Today, the Conservancy manages over 90% of the overall maintenance and security of Piedmont Park.

Media Contact: Amy Han Risher
Director of Marketing, Communications and Public Relations
Piedmont Park Conservancy
E: [email protected]
P: (404) 480-3758

Green Market, More Than a Shopping Experience

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Nothing beats waking up on a Saturday morning and starting a quest for warm coffee and hot breakfast. Many Atlantans in the Piedmont Park area start their Saturday mornings by heading over to Green Market, the Park’s local farmers market. Motivated by caffeine and an empty stomach, visitors stumble upon more than just a quick bite to eat; they enter a gathering place of neighbors, local and small businesses, and community partners.

Imagine walking through the market, meeting local vendors, learning about not only their goods but their stories. Green Market provides Midtown Atlanta a place where the community can come together and support one another. There is something about buying your bread, produce or coffee from local farmers. You feel better inside and feel inspired to create amazing meals. Yes, you could just drive to the closest grocery store, but there is something about buying straight from the vendor that makes it more fresh and delicious.

Green Market isn’t only just delicious food, it is also home to beauty and home products, plants, you name it. 

With a community atmosphere, Green Market is great for families and friends to gather to enjoy fresh air to discover the hidden gems Georgia has to offer. After you shop around the market, take a walk around the 200 + acres of park land and find a place to set up a picnic.


At Green Market, you’re not only supporting local businesses, you’re creating connections with the great community we live in. Learn more about Green Market at: piedmontpark.org/green-market