Categories
Home

Atlanta-Based UAT Joins PE-Backed Safety Products Platform

Blue Point Capital Partners and its portfolio company, Brimar Industries, are pleased to announce the acquisition of UAT, LLC (“UAT”), a leading provider of traffic control products, including cones, channelizers, vertical panels and related accessories. This strategic acquisition strengthens Brimar’s position in traffic safety products, adding a premier product line to its growing portfolio.

Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Alpharetta, GA, UAT has quickly established itself as a reliable supplier of traffic control products. The company serves traffic control providers, construction firms, distributors and other industry partners nationwide.

“We are excited to welcome UAT to the Brimar family,” said Brimar CEO Michael Schoenfeld. “This acquisition further reinforces Brimar’s reputation as a trusted provider of high-quality safety and security solutions across a wide range of industries. UAT’s customer relationships and differentiated product set fit squarely in with our strategy to provide a variety of high-grade safety products with the best-in-class customer service at competitive prices.”

The addition of UAT’s premium traffic safety products enhances Brimar’s existing offerings and capabilities, provided through its leading e-commerce portals, www.trafficsign.com and www.safetysign.com. The acquisition will enable Brimar to better serve its customer base with an expanded range of products and provide several cross-selling opportunities to UAT’s customer base with Brimar’s broad array of safety and security products.

“This acquisition is a key milestone in Brimar’s growth strategy and accelerates our ability to capitalize on key growth opportunities in 2025 and beyond,” said Blue Point Principal Rick Soukup. “With UAT’s quality products and Brimar’s innovative e-commerce and direct sales platforms, the combined platform is well-positioned to expand its reach and enhance its traffic safety segment.”

Brimar Industries is actively seeking additional strategic partnerships with founders and owners of safety and security manufacturing businesses. Business owners interested in exploring opportunities can contact Megan Kneipp, Blue Point’s Managing Director, Business Development at mkneipp@bluepointcapital.com.

UAT, LLC is a provider of traffic cones, barriers and accessories to a diverse customer base across the U.S. to support traffic control, infrastructure investment and construction safety. The company was founded in 2017 by Jeff Ritterling and is based in Alpharetta, GA.

Brimar Industries is a manufacturer and distributor of safety signs, labels, pipe markers, equipment identification products, parking and traffic signs and related accessories. Brimar specializes in high-quality industrial safety and visual communication, with a commitment to offering the largest selection of stock and custom products that comply with stringent legal and regulatory requirements. Brimar sells through its network of industry-leading e-commerce sites, including SafetySign.comTrafficSign.com and PipeMarker.com, as well as through its direct salesforce which provides customers with seamless and convenient ways to meet their safety, security and identification needs. Founded in 1988, Brimar continues to be a market leader in both product innovation and technology.

Blue Point Capital Partners is a private equity firm managing over $1.8 billion in committed capital. With nationwide resources, Blue Point’s geographical footprint allows it to establish relationships with local and regional entrepreneurs and advisors while providing the perspectives and resources of a global organization. Blue Point has over a two-decade history of partnering with lower middle-market businesses to build processes and capabilities to achieve growth. Blue Point’s portfolio is supported by its unique capabilities — which include an integrative team focused on innovative global supply chain, data & digital and human capital strategies — as well as its extensive experience, network of industry resources and focused M&A efforts. Blue Point typically invests in businesses that generate between $30 million and $300 million in revenue.

Categories
Home

Atlanta’s Docufree Acquires ImageAPI

Docufree, a leading provider of cloud-based document management and process automation solutions, has announced the acquisition of ImageAPI, a veteran provider of digital transformation services for state and local government agencies.

The acquisition strengthens Docufree’s position as a trusted partner for government organizations seeking to modernize their document management, optimize workflows, and maintain regulatory compliance. ImageAPI brings decades of experience in technology-driven document digitization, content management, and SaaS solutions tailored to the unique needs of the public sector.

“We are excited to welcome ImageAPI to the Docufree family,” said Brad Jenkins, chief executive officer at Docufree. “This acquisition will significantly enhance our software capabilities and operational efficiency, positioning our AI-driven SaaS and BPaaS platform as a leading solution in the Intelligent Document Management market, particularly for state, local, and education (SLED) agencies.”

Docufree’s strategic acquisition of ImageAPI aligns with the company’s long-term growth strategy, which focuses on both organic SaaS revenue growth and leveraging acquisitions to scale the adoption and uptake for its award-winning SaaS platform. The combined entity will bring together software, services, and nationwide operational advantages to better serve the evolving needs of the Business-to-Government (B2G) landscape.

“This purchase is a crucial component of our vision for this marketplace,” Jenkins added. “Our digital-transformation platform embeds powerful AI technologies coupled with a collection of content-enabled vertical applications specifically designed for the public sector, including a unique boardroom agenda application aimed at ensuring compliance among state agencies for medical license renewals.”

Clients of both Docufree and ImageAPI can expect a seamless transition as the integration process unfolds. Both organizations are committed to providing uninterrupted service and support throughout this period of growth and development, ensuring a smooth and successful transition.

Categories
Home

Savannah Gets India Cargo to Market Up to Eight Days Faster

The Port of Savannah is up to eight days faster for India cargo moving to inland markets such as Atlanta, Chicago and Dallas, compared to West Coast ports.

Six weekly vessel services provide direct connections between Savannah and India, while a total of ten services connect Savannah to the Indian Subcontinent. Twelve ocean carriers serve Savannah-Indian Subcontinent routes, with ocean transit times as short as 29 days. Direct port connections include Hazira, Mumbai/Nhava Sheva, Mundra and Pipavav. Additional calls within the region include Colombo, Sri Lanka and Port Qasim, Pakistan.

The Port of Savannah’s industry-leading speed to rail has enabled GPA’s 1-2-3 Strategy, providing third-day availability of cargo at many inland markets: First day offload from vessel, second day on rail, third day at destination.

Rail dwell in Savannah averages just over one day. That compares to a wait time of more than a week between vessel offload and departing train at some other U.S. gateways. 

The Port of Savannah’s Mason Mega Rail Terminal is the largest on-terminal rail facility in the Western Hemisphere. The 85-acre rail yard has 42 trains per week, served by both Class I railroads operating in the Eastern U.S. – Norfolk Southern and CSX, which provide double stack rail service to all inland markets served by Savannah.

Top exports via Savannah to India include commodities such as forest products, resins and rubber, and iron and steel. Top import commodities include textiles, minerals and machinery.

Categories
Home

Emory, Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Italy Build on Cultural Cooperation Agreement

The Ministry of Culture of the Italian Republic and Emory University consolidate the 2023 cultural cooperation agreement by announcing the transfer of an Etruscan Bucchero jug, a Greek black slipware fish-plate and five fragments of a Laconian Cup. The objects will remain in Atlanta on loan to the Emory’s Michael C. Carlos Museum.

In November 2023, the Ministry and Emory announced an agreement for cultural cooperation that included the transfer to the Ministry of five objects in the collection of the Carlos Museum, with three of the objects remaining on loan.

The latest development in the agreement is the result of information discovered through the ongoing provenance research taking place at the Carlos Museum.

Paolo D’Angeli, head of the Department of General Affairs for the Ministry, says, “We greatly appreciate the spirit of collaboration demonstrated by the provost and director Henry S. Kim and his prestigious institution. His high ethical sense towards archeology and Italy will strengthen the already excellent relations between our institutions and our countries and will certainly be a harbinger of a long-lasting collaboration.”

Henry S. Kim, associate vice provost and director of the Carlos Museum, says the transfer of these objects is an important development in Emory’s relationship with Italy.

“The Laconian fragments are being transferred as the result of the remarkable research by the archeologists from the site of the Timpone della Motta Sanctuary that matched an excavated fragment with fragments in the Carlos collection,” Kim says. “I am pleased that we will be able to reunite these fragments in an exhibit that we will host at Emory, which will highlight the important work that is being done by archaeologists to piece together the past.”

Kim said Emory’s decision with respect to the Etruscan jug and Greek fish-plate was based on information the museum’s provenance researcher found which showed the objects were discovered through an unsanctioned excavation.

“We are pleased the Carlos will be able to retain these two objects on loan for teaching and display purposes and to further highlight the cooperation between museums and authorities in source countries to address issues of provenance.”

More information about the provenance research at the Carlos Museum can be found here. More information about the objects included in the addendum to the cooperation agreement can be found here.

Categories
Home

Rubicon Names Michael Dulin as Chief Executive Officer

Rubicon Technologies, Inc. (“Rubicon” or the “Company”) (OTC: RBTC), a leading provider of technology-based waste and recycling solutions, today announced the appointment of Michael Dulin as Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately.

 

Dulin was appointed to Rubicon’s Board of Directors (the “Board”) in November 2024. Osman Ahmed, Rubicon’s Interim CEO, will remain on the Company’s Board.

Dulin comes to Rubicon having demonstrated strategic and results-driven leadership throughout his career. With more than two decades of experience in visionary leadership, Dulin has consistently overseen transformational growth and innovation in environmental solutions, while providing exceptional customer satisfaction.

“We are thrilled to have Mike take the helm at Rubicon,” said Andres Chico, Chairman of the Rubicon Board. “With his deep expertise in environmental services and track record of driving growth, we are confident that Rubicon will continue to innovate and expand under Mike’s leadership.”

“It has been an honor leading Rubicon during this transition period,” said Osman Ahmed, Rubicon’s Interim CEO. “Mike brings a wealth of industry experience and relationships and is the ideal leader to move the Company forward. I look forward to supporting Mike as he guides Rubicon into its next chapter.”

 

Dulin’s diverse background provides in-depth knowledge of waste processing, infrastructure, and technology, with a deep network in the environmental field. Dulin’s appointment is expected to drive Rubicon’s next phase of growth, enhancing its leadership in sustainability-driven waste management and environmental solutions.

“I am excited to lead Rubicon and our team as we continue to provide innovative sustainable solutions for our clients that create a positive impact on our society and the planet,” said Dulin. “Rubicon’s commitment to advancing the circular economy and helping businesses become more intelligent on how to reduce their environmental impact is inspiring.”

Dulin comes to Rubicon from Circulus Holdings, PBLLC (“Circulus”) where he held the role of CEO. Prior to Circulus, Dulin held the position of CEO at HEPACO, President and Chief Operating Officer at Shamrock Environmental Corporation, and President of Envita Solutions.

Dulin holds a B.A. in Environmental Management, an M.S. in Environmental Systems, and an M.P.H. in Public Health and Industrial Hygiene, all from the University of Kentucky.

 
Categories
Home

Family Champions Education, Opportunity at Kennesaw State Through Gift

Borja de Olano, a retired executive from The Coca-Cola Company, and wife Rosemary recently made a $100,000 gift to the university to support the Bagwell College of Education and KSU Athletics.

 Introduced to Kennesaw State University by fellow trustee Judith Moen Stanley, de Olano joined the KSU Foundation Board of Trustees. Drawn to KSU’s status as a relatively new institution with one of the largest and most diverse student bodies in Georgia, de Olano was impressed by its affordability and mission to support first-generation college students.

“KSU is a relatively new university, with one of the largest student bodies in the state of Georgia; it has a growing, diverse student body and a large selection of degree programs,” he said. His enthusiasm for the university’s mission and growth is rooted in its affordability and commitment to supporting first-generation college students.

His commitment to KSU extends beyond de Olano’s role on the Board of Trustees. He established the de Olano Family Education Scholarship, aimed at supporting future educators, emphasizing the importance of quality teachers.

“It’s because of partnerships with community leaders like Borja de Olano and our incredible faculty, staff, and students that this college is at the epicenter of innovation in education,” said Adrian L. Epps, dean of the Bagwell College of Education. “Borja is on the Bagwell College Board of Visitors, and we are grateful for his time, his insight, and his investment in our students.”

Recognizing the challenges faced by today’s aspiring teachers, de Olano is committed to alleviating some of their burdens.

“From my point of view, education is the most important element for anyone to be successful,” he explained.

His belief in the transformative power of education is deeply personal. It is influenced by his own experiences with exceptional teachers, like Mrs. Penny Pullum, who taught him the value of individuality and high standards.

“Mrs. Pullum was a really tough teacher, expecting nothing but the best, very demanding, and at the same time very supportive, fair, and loving–a great combination,” he recalled.

In addition to his support for education, de Olano has made a substantial gift to the Athletics Capital Campaign, acknowledging athletics’ vital role in university life. De Olano notes the visibility KSU gained from participating in the March Madness basketball tournament and how the experience underscored the importance of investing in athletics to elevate the university’s profile.

“Athletics is a key element in any successful school,” he said. “It helps create an environment of unity among students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters.”

As an ASCEND mentor, de Olano is deeply committed to the holistic development of students. Through mentorship, he shares his life experiences, guiding students and encouraging them to be role models to others as they go out into the world.

“At the end of the day, it is all about helping the development of the students, and at KSU, we’re focused on developing the whole person,” said de Olano.

Categories
Home

State Board of Education Member Jennifer Fennell to Hold 13th District Public Hearing

State Board of Education member Jennifer Fennell will hold a public hearing for citizens in the 13th Congressional District on Tuesday, February 4, from 7 to 8 p.m. at Eastside High School, 140 Highway 142, Covington, GA 30014.

The purpose of the hearing is to hear comments from interested citizens and educators within the congressional district regarding K-12 public education. Those wishing to speak should sign in upon arrival. For more information, please contact Geraldine Price at gprice@doe.k12.ga.us.

The Georgia Department of Education does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission to, or access to, or operations of its programs, services, or activities. Individuals who need assistance or auxiliary aids for participation in this public forum are invited to make their needs known to gprice@doe.k12.ga.us no later than 72 hours before the scheduled event.

The 13th Congressional District includes the following school districts:

    • Clayton County (partial)

    • Gwinnett County (partial)

    • Henry County (partial)

    • Newton County (partial)

    • Rockdale County

 

Categories
Home

Chris Shea Joins MedQuest as Chief Legal Officer

MedQuest Associates (MedQuest), a leading owner, operator, and manager of outpatient diagnostic imaging facilities in the U.S., has selected Warren Christopher ‘Chris’ Shea as Chief Legal Officer. Shea joins the team today to oversee legal, compliance, and risk management and will play a key role in the organization’s growth plans. He reports to CEO Jason Howard and sits on MedQuest’s Executive Leadership Council.

Shea has spent nearly three decades helping healthcare organizations balance risk and opportunity as they’ve embraced technology, diversified, and expanded to meet patient needs. He is also a sought-after speaker who shares his expertise in healthcare law, something he did for seven years as an adjunct professor at the University of Houston Law Center.

“Chris has extensive experience as both a guardian of the law and a catalyst for growth, with a specialty in healthcare transactions that’s a particular match for MedQuest,” said Howard. “His values align with ours, and his leadership will ensure we skillfully navigate complex issues like governance, AI, and payer pressure as we grow.”

Shea joins MedQuest after 12 years with Memorial Hermann, the largest not-for-profit health system in Southeast Texas, most recently serving as General Counsel for the health plan and Deputy General Counsel for the health system. Before that, he held senior posts at St. Joseph Medical Center and Hospital Partners of America after starting in associate roles with Moore & Van Allen and Crews & Hancock.

“Healthcare organizations face an increasingly complicated business landscape. At the same time, the demand for their services is dictating rapid expansion, innovation, and operational shifts,” said Shea. “The team at MedQuest understands what’s at stake for patients, physicians, and health systems, and I’m excited to join them at such a pivotal time in their growth.”

Shea earned an undergraduate degree from the University of Notre Dame and a juris doctor from William & Mary Law School.

Categories
Home

Atlanta Ranks Among the Top 20 Coolest Cities in the U.S. and Canada

Atlanta’s rich history, thriving music scene, and booming tech industry make it a dynamic city, but how does it stack up when it comes to ‘coolness’?

To figure this out, the team at CanadaSportsBetting analysed 50 cities based on factors like culture, dining, sports, social engagement, tech, and environmental sustainability.

With a Coolness Index score of 27.17, Atlanta ranks 20th overall.

Here’s a breakdown of the score:

  • Cultural and Arts Scene =  5.8 (Out of 23.67)

  • Lifestyle and Recreation = 4.7 (Out of 18.41)

  • Population = 3.1 (Out of 5.26)

  • Dining and Nightlife = 2.4 (Out of 21.04) 

  • Social and Community Engagement = 2.2 (Out of 10.52)

  • Tech and Connectivity = 5.8 (Out of 11.835)

  • Environmental Sustainability = 2.5 (Out of 5.26)

  • Trendiness and Media Coverage = 0.6 (Out of 3.945)

For the full report visit public.flourish.studio/visualisation/19552087/

Categories
Home

Governor Ups The Ante on School-Safety Grants

Gov. Brian Kemp said Monday he will ask the General Assembly to provide an additional $50 million in state grants to improve security in Georgia schools.

The added funding would bring the total for the current fiscal year to $158 million, Kemp said during a news conference at the state Capitol.

“This is going to keep our students, teachers, and school systems safer,” he said.

The issue of school safety has taken on greater urgency under the Gold Dome since last September’s mass shooting at Apalachee High School near Winder that killed two students and two teachers. A 14-year-old student was arrested at the scene and charged with the murders.

Lt. Gov. Burt Jones credited the school-safety grant program with reducing the potential carnage at the school in Barrow County.

“Had we not made that investment, the tragedy that hit Apalachee could have been much worse,” he said.

The added funding for school safety would be enough to give each school in the state $68,760.

Kemp said local school systems would be given discretion over how to use the money.

“They know their schools and their needs better than we do,” he said.

However, legislation the General Assembly passed in 2023 requires schools to submit safety plans to the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency in order to receive the funds.

Capitol Beat is a nonprofit news service operated by the Georgia Press Educational Foundation that provides coverage of state government to newspapers throughout Georgia. For more information visit capitol-beat.org.