The year was 1950, and Paul had just signed on as the namesake of Gibson’s first electric solidbody, with exclusive design privileges. Working closely with Paul, Gibson forged a relationship that would change popular culture forever. The Gibson Les Paul model—the most powerful and respected electric guitar in history—began with the 1952 release of the Les Paul Goldtop. After introducing the original Les Paul Goldtop in 1952, Gibson issued the Black Beauty, the mahogany-topped Les Paul Custom, in 1954. The Les Paul Junior (1954) and Special (1955) were also introduced before the canonical Les Paul Standard hit the market in 1958. With revolutionary humbucker pickups, this sunburst classic has remained unchanged for the half-century since it hit the market.

When the markets seemed to be falling without end, he says, "I called a client and told him we were really upset and he said, 'Go home and get some rest and don't worry about this. We've been working with you for 10 years and know you'll do the right thing.'"

The winning firms have at least 8 percent lawyers working reduced hours (versus an average 5 percent nationwide) and at least 20 percent women equity partners (versus an average 16 percent nationwide). Bass, Berry & Sims PLC was recognized for a number of ongoing related initiatives, including increased use of flex-time, reduced-hour schedules, and other family-friendly policies.

The law firm of Gullett Sanford Robinson & Martin PLLC has named Janet Summey as its first Director of Marketing & Business Development. Before joining the firm, Summey served as Business Development & Practice Support Manager at Bradley Arant Boult Cummings LLP and as Marketing Manager of Arthur Andersen’s Nashville office. Summey earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing from the University of Memphis in 1993. She serves as Membership Chair of the Legal Marketing Association’s Nashville City Group.