Countries often have honorary consulates in major cities across the United States in the absence of embassies or consulate general offices. Heading them up are not career diplomats, but private citizens known as honorary consuls, selected to represent these foreign countries on a voluntary basis. 

Besides attending embassy and consulate events, honorary consuls promote bilateral relations and educational ties, support citizens of the represented country and ease cultural and commercial exchanges. Some also assist with consular matters like emergencies, passport renewals and legal matters. Others focus on advocacy.

Close to home, I recently had the pleasure of meeting the honorary consuls of Monaco, the Czech Republic, Ghana and Barbados. I’m delighted to share their fascinating stories with you!

Doug Heckman

Peachtree Corners’ link to the Principality of Monaco

From a distinguished military career to the high-stakes world of finance, Doug Heckman‘s journey proves that it’s astounding where life can take you. When honeymooning in Monaco 43 years ago, the young lieutenant just out of West Point never could’ve dreamed that one day, from his Amberfield neighborhood, he’d represent the most exclusive playground of the rich and famous, the glamorous second-smallest country in the world, as Honorary Consul of Monaco.

A decorated career

Before embracing his diplomatic role, Heckman served an impressive 30 years in the U.S. Army, both active and reserve, as a Special Forces officer. His active duty tours took him to Germany and Fort Bragg, while reserve assignments saw him in special operations units across South America and the Middle East, including multiple tours in Iraq and Afghanistan.

A true patriot, Heckman retired as a colonel in 2011, earning accolades such as the Legion of Merit and three Bronze Stars. His extensive military background, which includes Special Forces, ranger and airborne (jumpmaster), as well as Expert Infantry and Combat Action badges, undoubtedly prepared him for diverse challenges.

Beyond his military prowess, Heckman carved out a 30-year career in investment management, culminating in a leadership position with Virtus Investment Partners and working with financial giants like Merrill Lynch.

The allure of Monaco

With the world’s shortest national coastline, Monaco’s total area spans only 514 acres. Yet the sovereign state is synonymous with luxury hotels, high-end shopping, opulent yachts dotting a breathtaking harbor, the Formula One Monaco Grand Prix and the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino. “They bat much bigger than their weight,” Heckman observed.

Monaco is known as a tax haven, attracting the wealthy and famous, including Formula One drivers and sports icons. As Heckman noted, “The tax structure is very friendly.” Since Monaco does not impose personal income tax, wealth tax or inheritance tax on residents, it’s an appealing location for high-net-worth individuals who are able to retain more of their earnings.

America’s fondness for Monaco can be traced to the 1950s when Hollywood star, Grace Kelly, left everything behind to marry Prince Rainier III.

From the U.S. military to Monaco

How did a seasoned American military officer and financial expert become an honorary consul of this European principality situated between the French and Italian Rivieras? Heckman explained that Monaco, a constitutional monarchy, established full diplomatic relations with the U.S. in 2006, eager to expand its global presence.

Heckman’s appointment came through a serendipitous connection with His Serene Highness Prince Albert II of Monaco. Serving on the West Point Board of Advisors, Heckman was asked to escort the prince during a visit to New York for UN Week in 2017. This interaction led to the ambassador’s offer for the retired colonel to take over the honorary consul role in Atlanta.

Despite not being a native Monégasque, his international experience and dedication to service made him an impeccable fit. “As far as the U.S. government is concerned you are a foreign agent of the country you represent,” he clarified, a responsibility he takes seriously, balancing his allegiance to Monaco with his unwavering commitment to the United States.

A fulfilling role

Heckman’s role isn’t a full-time job, but it’s undoubtedly a fun one. He emphasized that promoting Monaco is a joy, “If you’re representing a country, you hope it’s a good one,” he smiled. And a good one it is! Beyond promoting tourism and investment, Heckman’s duties include assisting Monégasque citizens who might encounter issues in the Southeast.

Cultural exchanges are facilitated by Heckman, who assisted in planning stops like Savannah, Disney World and Miami on the itinerary of the Monaco Boys Choir‘s East Coast tour last summer. Recently, he regaled a group from Emory’s Global MBA program visiting Monaco with a chance to meet Prince Albert.

While the position is unpaid, Heckman enjoys the camaraderie with eight other Honorary Consuls of Monaco across the U.S. “It’s a fun group to socialize with,” he shared, mentioning they are typically people of noteworthy standing in their communities.

Some of his eclectic counterparts are Jonathan Warren who runs the Liberace Museum in Las Vegas, Greg Lill, vineyard owner in Seattle and billionaire Dick Wolf in Los Angeles, creator of “Law and Order” and its many spin-offs.

Besides attending events like the Princess Grace Foundation Awards in New York or in Los Angeles, there are annual gatherings to stay updated on Monaco’s internal politics and plan joint initiatives. “We’ve become personal friends and communicate often,” Heckman shared.

Cross the entire country on foot!

For those dreaming of a trip to Monaco, Heckman is your go-to expert. He’s full of tips, from where to stay — “$500 gets you a nice hotel room in Monaco” outside of race week — to must-see attractions like the famous Grand Prix circuit, the spectacular aquarium, Musée Océanographique de Monaco and the iconic Casino de Monte-Carlo.

He’ll even tell you about Monaco’s surprising ventures into space technology, the Rolex Monte-Carlo Masters tennis tournaments and the glitzy Angel Film Awards.

Heckman continues to lead a charmed, multidimensional life. From military hero to financial rainmaker and now a diplomatic representative enjoying his retirement and traveling the world with his spouse, Patricia, Doug Heckman is a testament to embracing new adventures and serving with passion.

If you’re curious about the extravagant world of Monaco or simply want to chat with a fascinating individual, you can reach Honorary Consul, Doug Heckman by email at dougheckman2008@gmail.com.

Fun Monégasque Facts

• The royals in Monaco never become kings or queens. They remain princes and princesses. This practice dates to the 1200s when they didn’t want to offend the king of France whose protection they needed.

• Monaco is building into the Mediterranean to reclaim land from the sea.

• Want to move to Monaco? You’ll need to open a bank account depositing at least €500,000. Then, you’ll need to be able to afford the most expensive real estate in the world per square foot.

• Too small for an airport, Monaco is equipped with a heliport only. The nearest airport is the Nice Côte d’Azur Airport in France.

• The Monaco Grand Prix Formula One race takes place on the streets of Monaco. The narrow roads make passing difficult, so plans are brewing for a possible expansion that would allow for more overtakes, for the sheer thrill of sports fans.

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Monika Vintrlikova

Between Prague and Peachtree Corners

In Lawrenceville resides a remarkable go-getter linking two worlds: Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic, Monika Vintrlikova. Her story is one of entrepreneurial spirit, community dedication and a deep-seated commitment to strengthening the ties between her homeland and her adopted American home.

The family business and diplomatic service

Vintrlikova’s path to becoming an honorary consul began in 2013 when she and her husband moved to Atlanta to establish the U.S. manufacturing arm of their family business, ALBAform, in Flowery Branch. Her parents founded the manufacturing company in the Czech Republic 35 years ago.

Emphasizing her appreciation for Gwinnett County, especially for its manufacturing environment and quality schools, Vintrlikova shared, “We found it, we love it. It’s a good place.” 

Her honorary consul predecessor, George Novak, a gentleman who immigrated to Atlanta after the Soviet occupation of Czechoslovakia in 1968, approached her because of her support for the local Czech school. This cultural school, established by volunteers in 2013, aims to preserve the Czech language and culture for families in the Dunwoody, Sandy Springs, Marietta, Peachtree Corners and Johns Creek areas.

Novak, who had served as honorary consul since the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, recognized Vintrlikova’s dedication. In 2019, due to health reasons, he resigned and recommended her. “I knew exactly what I was getting into,” Monika said, reflecting on their close cooperation and friendship.

The diverse roles of an honorary consul

Vintrlikova’s role as honorary consul is multifaceted, encompassing three key areas.

• Consular Agenda —This is the core responsibility, authorized directly by the Czech Embassy in Washington D.C. Vintrlikova provides crucial support to Czech citizens living in Georgia and throughout the Southeast. Her main task involves notarizing Czech documents, a service that saves individuals considerable time and expense.

“They bring me powers of attorney, contracts when they are selling or buying real estate … We are making their life easier,” she explained.

Her official Czech Republic stamp eliminates the need for translations or apostilles. She also facilitates passport services and can issue emergency passports for urgent travel needs. Additionally, she helps with dual citizenship applications for American citizens with Czech heritage, guiding them through the necessary paperwork.

• Economic Diplomacy — Leveraging her manufacturing background, Vintrlikova actively promotes economic ties connecting her two worlds.

“I help Czech businesses come to the U.S. or Georgia businesses go abroad to the Czech Republic,” she said.

This involves organizing trade missions, connecting with companies at trade shows and accompanying the ambassador on visits to Czech businesses in Georgia. She views this as a natural extension of her own business interests.

• Public Diplomacy — This aspect focuses on cultivating Czech culture, connections and fostering exchanges. Whether it’s supporting a Czech movie at a European film festival or helping with student exchange programs like the one bringing Czech students to SCAD for summer seminars, Vintrlikova is dedicated. “I would like to get more exchanges going between universities. It’s connecting two worlds that I like,” she emphasized.

While her position is voluntary and unfunded, including office expenses and travel, Vintrlikova sees its immense potential.

Peachtree Corners: The new hub for Czechs

Vintrlikova recently moved her consular office to Peachtree Corners, drawn by the vibrant atmosphere of Atlanta Tech Park. “You could feel the energy of the ecosystem,” she said. This move positions her office alongside a new Czech business incubator, which she is actively promoting.

Despite a demanding schedule, splitting her time between the U.S. and the Czech Republic, Vintrlikova thrives in her role. “I like my life going back and forth. I like to keep the connections on both sides. It’s fun,” she concluded, emphasizing the warm, welcoming nature she finds in both her native and adopted “southeasts.”

Vintrlikova’s devotedness ensures that the Czech Republic has an effective advocate in the heart of Georgia.

Contact Monika Vintrlikova, Honorary Consul of the Czech Republic at 107 Technology Parkway, Suite 407 Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners or by phone at (404) 433-1400. Her email address is consul@czechconsulate.com.

Fun Czech Facts

• The word “robot” was coined by Czech writer, Karel Čapek.

• The Czech Republic is the world’s top consumer of beer per capita.
• Slovakia supported Hitler in WWII, which played a role in the initial dismemberment of Czechoslovakia in 1939. The split in 1993 into the Czech Republic and Slovakia resulted from a combination of economic, political and cultural factors. It was a peaceful event.

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Yvonne Horsley McCowin

Deep roots in Ghana, strong bonds in Georgia

Born in Ghana, Yvonne Horsley McCowin moved to the United States as a child, growing up in Maryland and later Virginia. Her father, a diplomat and Minister of Information, instilled in her a global perspective and a commitment to service.

Though she’s lived in the U.S. for decades, Yvonne cherishes her Ghanaian heritage. “The minute I touched down in Ghana after 20 years, I felt instantly at home,” she recalled.

When Horsley McCowin stepped into her role last November as Georgia’s first Honorary Consul of Ghana, she wasn’t a stranger to serving her community. She had served for years as the President of the Ghana Council of Georgia. “I’ve always wanted to do something good for my country,” she said.

Her trailblazing journey began in 2015 when the Ghanaian president envisioned expanding honorary consulates across the United States. Yvonne knew she was the right candidate. What started as an uphill battle — years of proposals, resubmissions and government transitions — culminated in her appointment eight years later.

Reflecting on her perseverance, Horsley McCowin added, “It took a while, but persistence was key.”

From parking prowess to real estate enthusiast

Before diving into real estate, Horsley McCowin spent 25 years in the parking industry, managing customer relations and coordinating with city officials.

“Parking should be friendly, not free,” she remarked, recounting her experience bridging the gap between governments who appreciate the revenue stream and constituents who don’t love parking tickets.

Her pivot to real estate came during the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, she specializes in residential properties in Atlanta and surrounding areas, enjoying the direct relationship with clients.

“You’re helping folks; they’re happy, you’re happy — it’s win-win for all.”

Breaking barriers, building bridges

Being the first honorary consul comes with its challenges, but Horsley McCowin approaches them with determination and grace. Her role spans everything from facilitating visas and passport renewals to procuring legal guidance, connecting businesses and fostering economic and cultural exchanges.

“I’m trying to connect with businesses that might want to go to Ghana to invest,” she enthused. She’s hoping to negotiate a “sister airport deal” with Ghana and Atlanta’s airport. Tourism is also important to her.

“I’m a big proponent of seeing the world outside of where you live,” she stated, actively working on student exchange programs to offer young people a taste of Ghanaian culture and to foster global friendships. Similarly, she’s making efforts to send legislators from Georgia to Ghana and vice versa.

Celebrating Ghanaian culture and cuisine

Ask her about Ghana, and Horsley McCowin lights up with excitement. “Ghana is the friendliest country in Africa, and there’s no food like any Ghanaian dish,” she beamed. From jollof rice to fufu, Ghana’s culinary scene is rich and diverse.

She recommends local favorites in Atlanta, like Ike’s Cafe and Grill and Quabena’s Kitchen, where authentic Ghanaian flavors shine.

Summarizing Ghanaian hospitality with a fun tidbit, she revealed, “Ghana is the only place I know where you can show up uninvited to somebody’s house and they say, ‘Oh, here you are! Come on in.’”

Looking ahead

Honorary Consul of Ghana, Yvonne Horsley McCowin is an ardent advocate for Ghana, tirelessly working to create opportunities.

If you’re looking for assistance with travel to Ghana or curious about this vibrant West African nation, you can reach her office in Duluth at 3855 Postal Drive, Suite 100 or by phone at (770) 688-0245. You can also email her at yvonne@ghanaconsulateatlanta.com.

“I’m wholeheartedly trying to get people to visit or learn about Ghana,” she affirmed. And her dedication shines through in every interaction.

Fun Ghanaian Facts

• Ghana is a leading exporter of cocoa in the world.
• Ghana was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to gain independence. 

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David Cutting

A life of global service: Honorary Consul of Barbados

Ever wondered what it’s like to promote a slice of Caribbean heaven on Earth? Just ask David Cutting, the Honorary Consul of Barbados. While music superstar Rihanna may be one of the best-known Barbadian ambassadors, Cutting has been on a decade-long escapade “promoting paradise,” as he so cheerfully puts it.

From international banker to diplomatic envoy

Cutting’s professional life is defined by a quarter-century of international banking while crisscrossing the globe.

“Fourteen of those years in Asia and 10 in Africa,” he recounted, with stops in bustling Hong Kong, Singapore and — as the CEO for Standard Chartered Bank — across Nigeria, Uganda and Botswana. His wife of 45 years, Heather, and their three children embraced the exposure to new countries and cultures with every move.

In a twist of fate, Cutting’s assignment to Nigeria meant he was in Lagos instead of the World Trade Center during the tragic events of 9/11.

After a distinguished career, he landed in Atlanta in 2011, making St Marlo Country Club in Duluth his home. His consulting business leverages his worldwide financial experience.

“I’m focusing on businesses interested in investing in emerging markets in Asia, Africa or the Caribbean,” he said, underscoring the importance of corporations including board members with residential and working experience in those markets.

Promoting paradise

The call to serve the country of Barbados came in 2015 when a friend, Dr. Edward Layne, who held the honorary consul position for 22 years, asked him to step into the role. Cutting did not hesitate to reconnect with his roots; it was a sort of homecoming for him.

“I have always felt like the prodigal son who left Barbados at the age of 18 … The honorary consul role gave me the opportunity to give back to my country,” he said.

“It is not painful to be responsible for promoting paradise. Barbados is not difficult to sell,” Cutting quipped. His mission? To showcase Barbados as a prime spot for both dazzling vacations and smart investments.

Tourism reigns supreme, drawing visitors to its rich history, stunning beaches and food, rum and jazz festivals, as well as to Crop Over festivities, Barbados’ version of Carnival.

Cutting is always eager to highlight Barbados’ robust international business platform, offering a “low tax environment” for savvy companies establishing a presence there, thanks to favorable dual taxation arrangements with over 40 countries.

Beyond the beaches

Cutting proudly declares Barbados “the gem of the Caribbean,” boasting its status as “one of the safest places” with a surprisingly high per-capita income for its cozy population of around 300,000.

The island nation, independent since 1966 and a republic since 2021, is always evolving. During the pandemic, Barbados innovated with a “12-month visa” for remote workers, proving you truly can conduct business “with a laptop on the beach.”

Beyond his promotional duties, Cutting serves as a crucial link for the Barbadian diaspora in Georgia. He works closely with local organizations and other honorary consuls in the Southeast. He also finds time to serve as treasurer on the board of the Atlanta Consular Corps.

“It’s important for us to share with each other. We’re all focused on the FIFA World Cup coming to Atlanta next year, working closely with the World Cup organization and the Metro Chamber to ensure visitors are properly accommodated and safe,” he shared.

A key initiative, “commercial diplomacy,” involves seeking business opportunities for Barbados, scholarship opportunities for Barbadian students and training programs in the hospitality sector.

“Barbados has a 98% literacy rate. It’s one of the highest literacy rates in the world. Education is hugely important to us,” he proudly stated.

Student exchange programs are prevalent. Globally recognized medical schools like Ross University School of Medicine attract American and other foreign students who don’t mind spending a term in Barbados where “it’s sunshine every day, the sea is blue, and the sand is white.”

To the Land of the Flying Fish!

Has Barbados piqued your interest? Contact the knowledgeable Honorary Consul, David Cutting by email at atlbarbadosconsulate@gmail.com or by phone at (678) 907-5887. He’ll be delighted to speak with you.

With direct flights from Atlanta, your journey to this coral island’s charm is closer than you think.

Fun Barbadian Facts

• Established in Barbados in 1703, Mount Gay Rum is the oldest running rum distillery.

• Barbados is the only place outside of the United States that George Washington ever visited. He accompanied his ailing brother there in 1751, hoping the warm weather would cure his tuberculosis. It did not. Washington contracted and survived smallpox during his stay, achieving immunity. That’s how he survived the smallpox outbreak during the Revolutionary War when many of his troops succumbed to the disease.

• Some of the first governors in the Carolinas were expatriate plantation owners from Barbados. Hence, the Gullah language spoken by the Gullah Geechee people of Georgia and the Carolinas shares linguistic connections with the Bajan dialect of Barbados.

• The banking industry in Barbados is largely dominated by Canadian banks.

• The Barbados dollar has a fixed exchange rate with the U.S. dollar. One U.S. dollar equals two Barbados dollars, every day, since 1975.

• Cou-cou, served with steamed or fried flying fish, is the national dish of Barbados. Similar to polenta, cou-cou is made with corn meal and okra. As one might imagine, Barbadian cuisine features fresh seafood.

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Jewels of our community

Each of these private citizens shares a thrill in joining cultures, a story that is a testament to the power of international experience and, for most, the enduring call of one’s homeland.

As honorary consuls, they have an inherent desire to serve while championing the countries they represent at their own expense, ensuring their beauty and opportunities are known far and wide.

A version of this article can be found in the July/August issue of Peachtree Corners Magazine.

On a recent Saturday, early morning clouds gave way to blue skies and sunshine — perfect for a visit to the Peachtree Corners Farmers Market at Town Center.

Set within the parking lot directly in front of Firebirds, Beard Papa’s and Fire & Stone Italian Pizza Kitchen, the market was lightly bustling when we arrived and more families were making their way over from the Town Green playgrounds and splash pad to shop, sample their way through the booths or pick up quick snacks.

Parents lined up at the Sequel Coffee cart and Nurture Coffee for a mid-morning caffeine fix, while kids gravitated to the King of Pops cart and the games that had been set up next to the Jazzercise booth. Other shoppers lingered over baked sourdough breads, spice blends and craft booths or lined up to get a bag of fresh Pearson Farm peaches.

The vendor tents lined both sides of the blocked off section of the parking lot — enough booths to make for a fun morning of shopping and tasting, but not so many that you’d feel rushed to see them all. The overall vibe was happy as neighbors greeted each other, shoppers and vendors laughed and chatted and everyone seemed to enjoy being outdoors supporting local businesses.

Food, fun and more

The many food offerings at the farmers market ranged from baked goods and desserts to delicious mac ‘n cheese squares (packaged up for a quick and easy lunch), Hooch Pickles, a variety of creative empanadas from Healthy Bites and Venezuelan street food from Friticas.atl.

Peachtree Farm, organizers of the market, was there with fresh vegetables and starter plants for sale. Blossom & Vine had a lovely display of fresh-cut flower arrangements. Sumthin About Spice offered a selection of specially blended organic seasonings. And Herbal Health 360 presented herbal teas and other wellness products alongside several local crafters selling hand-made artisan goods.

The lineup may change slightly from week to week as organizers continue to accept applications from vendors who want to take part, but many of the businesses said they plan to be there all summer.

About the market

The Peachtree Corners Farmers Market is open every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m., May 10 through August 30. Organized by Peachtree Farm in partnership with the City of Peachtree Corners, their mission is to support local businesses while bringing fresh produce, prepared foods and artisan goods to the community.

Parking for the market is available in the Town Center parking deck and throughout the rest of the open lots.

For more information, visit peachtreefarm.org/farmers-market. Or keep up with market dates and other community events at community.peachtreecornersga.gov.

Photos by Shawne Taylor

Gwinnett County Public Library (GCPL) has been selected for a major national grant from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, one of the country’s oldest and most influential philanthropic institutions.

GCPL plans to use the funds to expand their English language classes, working in partnership with Gwinnett County Public Schools.

The grant will increase the number of free English classes offered and help recruit community volunteers (who pass background checks) to support English language learners. Stipends for volunteer English teachers and bus passes for program participants will also be available.

Expanding library access

Gwinnett County Public Library is one of just 11 libraries nationwide chosen through the Libraries as Pillars of Education and Democracy initiative, which aims to help public libraries expand access to adult literacy and college readiness programs.

“Fluency in the English language is essential for everyone to participate in American society, culture, politics and business,” said Charles Pace, executive director of Gwinnett County Public Library. “We are delighted that the Carnegie Corporation has recognized the importance of English language classes and libraries in general to maintain a literate and engaged citizenry.”

“Thanks to this generous award we will be able to better support the English language learner needs of the Gwinnett community than ever before.”

Carnegie’s history of philanthropy

Carnegie has been one of the largest philanthropic funders of libraries, from the early construction of almost 1,700 libraries in the U.S. to helping establish the endowment of the American Library Association, funding the nation’s first graduate library school and digitizing archival collections around the world.

“Andrew Carnegie believed libraries were ladders upon which anyone and everyone could rise, and that belief continues to guide us,” said Dame Louise Richardson, president of Carnegie.

“At a time when trust in public institutions is fraying, libraries retain public trust. We are delighted to support these grantees as they provide essential programs and community services.”

Career Online High School graduates earn diplomas

GCPL also recently awarded nine graduates their high school diplomas at a ceremony that took place on June 7 at the Norcross branch. Family and friends joined the graduates, along with guest speaker Constance Brown, chair of the Hooper-Renwick School Legacy Committee.

Gwinnett County Public Library offers qualified community members the opportunity to earn an accredited high school diploma and credentialed career certificate through Career Online High School, a program supported by community donations.

About the program

Career Online High School is specifically designed to re-engage adults in the education system and prepare them for entry into postsecondary career education or the workforce.

In the last 12 months, GCPL has graduated 24 people from the program, with 132 graduating since its 2016 launch in Gwinnett County. GCPL’s students are mostly BIPOC women. Many are new to the US or are ESL. Most of the program’s US students come in with 10th or 11th-grade level schooling with the goal of completing their diploma.

“Earning a high school diploma is a life-changing achievement,” said Executive Director, Charles Pace. “Career Online High School is a key part of our mission of inspiring our residents to learn, grow and dream.”

GCPL awards scholarships annually to qualified learners looking to earn a high school diploma and advance their careers. Once enrolled, students access a 24/7 online learning platform with board-certified instructor assistance.

Students can graduate within a year by transferring in previously earned high school credits but are given up to 18 months to complete the program.

Gwinnett County residents can learn more about Career Online High School and take an online self-assessment by visiting gwinnett.careeronlinehs.org.

About Gwinnett County Public Library

Gwinnett County Public Library is a free provider of education and information. Located in metro Atlanta, the library system has 15 branches that offer free access to computers and Wi-Fi, classes, materials, books and programming for people of all ages.

For more information about Gwinnett County Public Library programs and services, visit gwinnettpl.org.