Episode 2: Introduction to Gateway Sunday School Supply Company

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents either are the product the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously, and any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, business establishments, events, or locales is entirely coincidental. The author does not have control over, and does not assume any responsibility for third-party conscience.

Welcome to Gateway Sunday School Supply Company, where we strive to provide the best Christian materials for churches and other organizations. We have a passion for helping our clients spread the message of God's love through education and outreach.

But what many don't know is that there's another side to Gateway SSSC; one filled with passive-aggressive behavior, toxic relationships, and hidden agendas. The truth is that in this environment it takes a special kind of person to navigate these waters safely while still achieving success - an ability which few possess.

We invite you on a journey with us as we explore the secrets behind surviving at Gateway Sunday School Supply Company: how to recognize when someone has an agenda or isn't being honest; when it's better just keep your head down and go along with whatever people say even if you disagree; why gossip can be both harmful and helpful depending on who it involves; how subtle body language can tell you more than words ever could; how knowing yourself can help protect you from manipulation and toxicity.

From learning about office politics to discovering clever ways around bureaucracy, join us each week as we uncover the tips and tricks needed for not only surviving but also thriving in such an intense work environment!

ABOUT GATEWAY SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPPLY COMPANY

A Non-profit corporation, which today offers a broad portfolio of Bible study products, celebrated their 75th anniversary at the beginning of the new millennium. They trace their roots back to the Corporations flagship company, a Sunday school supply distributor. Throughout their more than 75-year history, they have been a values-driven company.

2020

Announced the appointment of Sarah Ann Smart as the new Vice President of Operations. Sarah Ann came highly qualified with over 25 years of experience in the supply retail chain industry. She is a God-fearing woman who loves the Lord. Sarah Ann stated that she is really excited to be at Gateway and for the opportunity to work with Thom Castillo, the President of Gateway. She and Thom worked together as interns with a big box store.

Opening in August of 1998

Announced the appointment of Thom Castillo as the President of Gateway. Thom has over 23 years of retail experience, working with the big box chains. Thom started his retail career at age 12 selling newspapers on a busy street corner in NYC. Thom worked his way through college selling life insurance door to door. “Selling just comes easy to me,'' said Thom during his interview on Good morning Columbia. Thom briefly discussed plans to expand Gateway’s e-commerce ventures.

In the Summer of 1980

Gateway distinguished itself from its competitors by maintaining a regional focus by targeting medium size cities for expansion.

In the Spring of 1964

The group of church leaders proved to have a knack for marketing. Their distribution area begin growing by 10% monthly.

1945

A group of church leaders opened a small Christian Sunday School supply store on a side street in Calico, SC. This original store was only 450 square feet and sales for that first year was less than $5,000. After a number of years, a move was made to larger headquarters on Diamond Lane, in the uptown shopping district. In the next decade, two more moves were made within the uptown area, each time adding space for expansion of stock and services.

Our committed staff...one of the secrets to our growth and success!

MEET THE CORPORATE STAFF:

Meet some of the players in this game: the ones who play by the rules--and those who don't; those with lofty ambitions--and those without; those with patience --and those without; even the wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing trying desperately to blend in.

• Barbara Henkins - Chief Operations Officer
• Priscilla ‘Prissy’ Goodwin - Office Manager
• Henderson Patten - VP of Sales
• Robert Herman - Customer Service Representative
• Wanda Kingman - Accounts Manager/Sales
• Robyn Michaels - Customer Service Representative
• Fern Roberts - Director of Marketing
• Linda Willingham - Chief Financial Officer
• Uriah Edwards - Customer Service Representative
• Terry Alexander - Accountant
• Soloman Gaines - Shipping & Warehouse Manager
• Grady Caine - Director of Logistics
• Dr. Luther Markas - VP President
• David Pompeli - Director of Human Resources
• Dr. Walter Strongman - President
• Jane Beck - Bookkeeper
• Chrissy Stoker - Receptionist/Administrative Assistant to CFO

“Treat others the same way you want them to treat you.” Luke 6:31