The Interview – Gary DeGeorge, Jr.

Briefly describe yourself and what you do/did.

I was very lucky to grow up in Estero, Fl., where the Everglades meet the Gulf of Mexico. After jobs in the motorsports/watercraft and construction industries, I moved to Newnan in 2000. I have two amazing boys, 10-year-old’s Peyton and Dominic, and built Atlanta Range and Ordnance in 2012.

Best piece of business advice you’ve received.

Two from my Uncle Sam:

“It’s only zeros. What’s the difference if you go broke for $1million or 10 million, you’re still broke.”

“Can’t reach the moon if you don’t shoot for the stars”

If I had it to do over, go bigger, earlier in life.

You are going on an extended solo trip. What three albums and three books would you take?

Alice In Chains Unplugged

Pink Floyd Wall

Maroon 5 Greatest Hits

SAS Survival Handbook

A word puzzle/brain teaser book

Something inspirational

Tell us one thing about yourself that few people know.

I’m very nice.

You are hosting a dinner party for six. What five people, living or dead, would you invite and why?

My Grandfather – kindest man ever, and I miss him every day. Thomas Edison- I grew up near his winter estate and would love to hear about old Florida and all of his inventions. My best friend and cousin, Luke. My parents – they’re my parents.

Name an as yet unfulfilled dream:

Sail around Florida and the Caribbean on an extended fishing and dive trip.

Or drive my factory delivered Ferrari through the Italian Alps.

If you weren’t doing what you are, you would be…

Flying airplanes, commercial building/construction management, or a fishing guide. But I love what I do, and I’m very fortunate to be successful with the shooting range.

Your go-to food.

A porterhouse, medium.

Favorite movies(s)

The Godfather

The Aviator

Iron Man

Dogs or cats?

Dogs, Boxers specifically…   but I’d be ok with a farm cat.

Your favorite quote and why:

“Always do right. This will gratify some people, and astonish the rest.” Mark Twain

I live by this. I always try to do the right thing, and I treat people how I want to be treated in my personal life and in business. I believe in karma.

Name something that you are extremely glad you did or accomplished

Made it to 41, I’ve been successful, healthy, have been awarded “Worlds Greatest Dad” by my boys, and opened Newnan’s first indoor gun range, when others tried but couldn’t make it happen.

What advice would you give your younger self just starting out on their own.

Don’t waste ANY time.  Twenty-five becomes 41 VERY fast.