CITIZEN
Vol. 31 No. 9
Daycation ideas page 4
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So u t h
gwinnett Est. 1988 Covering Snellville, Lawrenceville, Grayson, Loganville
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JULY 2019
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Kirby Smart, The Golden By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com
Parks and Rec page 10
He’ll steal sandwiches directly from your hand. And keys. And butter from off the counter. The day of the butter incident was like any ordinary day in the Leftwich household. Kirby Smart the Golden was up to his usual mischief, and when his humans left the room, he jumped on the counter, devouring an entire pack of KerryGold butter. His humans caught it all on their security camera and sent the footage to the company who proceeded to send him cases of butter and cheese of his own so he wouldn’t have to steal. But Kirby’s habit of swiping food persists. As his human, Amanda Leftwich, says, “When people meet him, they think he’s sweet and innocent, but he’s a thief!” So, neighbors be warned, Kirby Smart, an English Cream Golden Retriever, is a trickster! Since adopting the pup last September from Calhoun, Ga., Amanda has had a hard time keeping track of her shoes and even house keys. “I had been missing my spare for weeks, and one day Kirby walks in from the yard with the keys — he had them in his mouth!” But he’s as lovable as he is uncouth. To the Leftwich family, Kirby came at just the right time — tricks and all. Conrad, their family dog of eight years had passed from
See KIRBY on Page 30 Free Workshop page 11
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Kirby loves to swim with his humans.
Vaping Attention to Prevention
Mama turns 90
By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com
Passion and Strategy page 25
INSIDE Citizen Connection 4 Gwinnett Pulse 8 Road Runner 14 Health & Wellness 18 Spiritual 24
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Twin brothers Juan and Marco Borrego are upcoming sophomores at Buford High School. Last year, they participated in NPR’s high school podcast challenge, and along the way, they’ve founded a nonprofit organization “Vaping Attention to Prevention.” Even before the podcast challenge, the boys had noticed a growing problem at school. In the hallways, in the bathrooms and even in class, kids their age and younger were inhaling vaporized nicotine like it was candy. And many of the teachers and administrators had no idea. “It’s a big issue in our high school, Juan, age 15, said of the habit which requires a battery run E-cigarette device often referred to as the leading brand name, “Juul” or just a “Vape”. “No one seems to know how bad vaping really is, so we researched it and decided to make that our podcast topic for the challenge.” The Georgia Department of Health (GDH) conducted a survey showing the number of high school students in Georgia who have used
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The Borrego twins— Juan and Marco. These fifteen-year-old, rising sophomores are the founders of Vaping Attention to Prevention, a nonprofit organization.
E-cigarettes at least once has increased by 66 percent from 2012 to 2017. Consequently, the GDH now considers electronic cigarette use among youth is “a major health concern.” And yet, Marco and Juan find that many of their peers and even teachers aren’t aware that vaping is a huge problem at their school. They formed the non-profit Vaping Attention to Prevention (VATP) for
See VAPING on Page 28
Doris Lorraine Harris Snell By Mandy Snell The year was 1947, March. Doris Lorraine Harris came to Snellville to finish school early so she could start her nursing career (back then in Snellville there were only 11 grades). She was living with her cousins, Thelma and Gerald Brownlee. Somewhere around September, of the same year, they walked to the Snellville Consolidated school to watch a few ‘boys’ play ball. Mother was leaning upon a fence and a young man caught her eye. She
Photo by Emmett Clower
asked Thelma, “Who is that boy in the white T-shirt?” Thelma replied, “Oh, that’s Hugh Snell and don’t you even think about it.... he’s a little on the wild side.” Ha, needless to say, our mama did not listen to her. It wasn’t long before the two were going out to dinner and a few dances. There was definitely a spark there. I know this because my aunts told me! They said they had never seen their little brother so smitten. On March 13, 1948, they had a date to go square dancing in Co-
See MAMA on Page 26
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July 2019
Five reasons to see your banker before you buy your next house
Ginger Kilman
United Community Bank Spring marks the official start to the home-buying season. Whether you’re looking to expand or downsize, it is a great time to take advantage of the low interest rates and the favorable housing market. But, before you take your first home tour or make any type of offer, here are a few reasons to speak to your banker first: 1. KNOW WHAT YOU CAN SPEND. Nothing is worse than finding the perfect home and realizing it is out of your reach financially. Don’t waste time looking at homes that are priced outside of what you can afford. Speak with your banker first - you may find you actually qualify for a higher loan amount than you think. Knowing your exact qualification
amount can save you a great deal of time and energy. 2. BETTER SCORES, BETTER RATES. Your credit scores are an overall representation of your credit-worthiness and can ultimately determine your interest rate. Remember, the higher your scores, the lower the interest rate and the less interest you will pay over the life of the loan. This can add up to real savings each month and over the course of the loan. Learning your scores in advance can also allow you the time to work on improving them and help you secure a lower rate. FLEX YOUR PURCHASING MUSCLES. Going to a home seller with a prequalification letter offer shows you mean business. In today’s competitive housing market, the power of a pre-qualification can help. Sellers are more eager to accept an offer from a qualified buyer. 3. SO MANY OPTIONS. There are many different loan options available for home buyers today. Knowing which loan program fits your financial situation, lifestyle, and specific home purchase goals is key to getting that new home, and allowing you to be comfortable with your new monthly payment. Let your banker review these options with you.
4. REMODEL OR REFI. You love your home now, but an extra bathroom or updated kitchen would be perfect. Using the equity you have now, a Home Equity Line of Credit from United Community Bank is a great option to help you with whatever you need. And, remember a Home Equity Line of Credit can also be used to help consolidate debt, make large purchases, pay school tuition
or support anything else that you and your family may need. If paying your home off sooner or lowering your monthly payment is at the top of your list, a refinance may be the solution. Your banker is available to help you navigate the process and will work with you to reach your goals. When you’re ready to take the next step, start by meeting with your local
United Community Mortgage Services banker first. Please contact Ginger Kilman, Branch Manager NMLS#795215 Snellville Branch 770-985-2337 or Nancy Cain, Branch Manager NMLS #1187274 Lawrenceville Branch 770-237-0007. Member FDIC. © 2016 United Community Bank NMLS#421841 ucbi.com
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July 2019
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connection
GWINNETTCITIZEN
“What is your ideal ‘daycation’ and why?” Citizen Connection is a random sampling of opinions regarding various subjects. Visit our Facebook page to add yours and see a whole lot more!
“We’re actually going to Savannah for a day at the end of July. It’s just something to do.” ~ Octavius Freeman, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rock Springs Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“I guess a lake. Just chill beaches, connection with nature. Around here Lake Lanier, and I’ve been to a few parks around here.” ~ Luis Varela, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“I guess spending time with my grandson. We usually go to the park or to Billy Beez at the Mall of Georgia.” ~ Pat Cohane, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rock Springs Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“I think the ideal place is somewhere with outdoor space. A mixed-use place, I guess. With trails, playgrounds, water. Rock Springs is pretty good, and Freeman Mill Park has a waterfall and a historical building, so that’s nice because it close and a little different.” ~ Jordan Mendoza, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rock Springs Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“It would be a park like Lake Lanier with water and camping. I have a two-yearold, so it would be anything I can do outside and be a kid again and bring my son and my daughter.” ~ Aaron Borders, Snellville, Ga. (Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“We like hiking. Usually somewhere in North Georgia like Blairsville, Helen or the Blue Ridge Mountains. Recently, we went to Cloudland Canyon [near Chattanooga, Tenn.] and Helton Creek Falls [ near Blairsville, Ga.].” ~ Hunter Wilkes, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rock Springs Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“Probably somewhere like Lake Lanier where you can lay out by the water, and they have a waterpark and it’s close enough to go and come back in one day. It’s a good family area.” ~ Torian Salary, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rock Springs Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“We like to watch football games or go to Bogan Park [in Buford, Ga.] because it’s summer and there is nice weather.” ~ Mark Zaruba, Snellville, Ga. (Rock Springs Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
“I like to watch soccer games, so I’d like to go to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium.” ~ Carlos Varela, Maracaibo, Venezuela (Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
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“Helen. It’s a place to get away from the city in the mountains and where there’s less people.” ~ Lee Nguyen, Lawrenceville, Ga. (Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
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“This is my ideal daycation, because I can come here with my god children, who I don’t see often, and spend time together.” ~ Madeline Quashie, Alpharetta, Ga. (Rhodes Jordan Park, Lawrenceville, Ga.)
July 2019
Estate Planning: Ask The Right Questions And Don’t Overlook The Details
James Miskell
Estate Planning
To begin planning your estate is to think through the intricacies of your life, to think about your values and your family. But there is nitty-gritty you might be overlooking: the financial, the legal, and the shared understandings. Make time to consider what you might be overlooking before planning in earnest. Easily overlooked details can be discovered by following some simple guidelines: Estate Planning documents and beneficiary designations should be kept up to date; both you and your spouse should know the location of all financial accounts and have the information to access them; and both you and your spouse should participate in regular
July 2019
updates from your financial advisor. These guidelines are only a start, but a solid one, especially for married couples. Following them is a natural lead-in to conversations you may not have realized you needed to have. You should discuss who will be acting on your behalf as your agents, those people who represent your interests through a power of attorney, will or trust. Picking the wrong people can frustrate your plans, whether due to lack of capability, dedication or trustworthiness. You need to ensure that only the right people hold your durable power of attorney or serve as executor or trustee. Attempting to maintain equal footing and prevent hurt feelings among heirs can often lead to chaos. Some people are better suited for certain duties and it is not a comment on your love for or value of your heirs to make wise choices. Explaining the reasoning behind your choices while you are alive and allowing heirs to work through their emotional reactions now--without the stress of imminent decision making--will ensure a smooth execution of your wishes and lessen the possibility of poor decision making by your heirs. And of course, you will also discuss your inheritance – choosing who will benefit from your estate.
“A plan for your estate that’s not committed to paper is no plan at all.” Money can be easily divided among your beneficiaries in any proportions that you believe are appropriate. In contrast, it can be more difficult to plan for the disposition of particular objects. Oftentimes, physical items are difficult to split up. For example, you can’t simply tear the painting in half, divide a book, or even realistically split a set of china. How you split up priceless family artifacts and other physical goods can start a fight, or, if thoughtfully done ahead of time, end fights before they happen. This is a topic worth discussing with your heirs and beneficiaries. That way everyone can express what things they may want and why. Family heirlooms represent an emotional connection that may even be more important to family members than financial assets. The estate you leave is not just about money it is also about the memories and shared values that hold families together.
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Having the right conversations is only the beginning. A plan for your estate that’s not committed to paper is no plan at all. Determining your priorities and goals for your estate plan should then dictate the structure of your plan and the creation of the documents required to make it a reality. It takes a great deal of training to properly structure an estate plan. That’s why you consult competent and experienced legal counsel. The critical first step, however, is
starting the right conversations with your spouse and family members. Then continue the conversation with competent counsel who can guide you, your spouse and all of your loved ones in building the right plan to achieve your unique important goals. James M. Miskell received his law degree from the University of Georgia in 1993. His Asset Protection, Estate Planning and Elder Law practice has offices located in Lawrenceville and Johns Creek. He offers educational workshops and free consultations to assist clients as well as fellow professionals in creating individualized solutions. Visit his website: www.LetsTalkEstatePlanning.com. For more information, see his ad in this issue.
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Rezoning opposition turns into community movement for a better Gwinnett and beyond By Carole Townsend GwinnettCitizen.com Homeowners were stunned, outraged, dismayed by the proposed rezoning request along the 800 block of Ozora Road; to allow a waste transfer station in a heavy residential area near Tribble Mill Park and two schools. But in coming together to show their opposition, they’ve also seen another side of their community that gives them hope, not only for this area, but for all of Gwinnett. The land in question, about 51 acres, has been zoned R-100 (residential) since the 1970s and updated for the same this past February in Gwinnett County’s 2040 Plan. Needless to say, residents and business owners in the Grayson area, and eastern Gwinnett had serious concerns when a special use permit and M-2 (Heavy Industry) zoning was proposed for that property to be used as a waste transfer station. While Gwinnett County only need notify nearby residents of the rezoning 15 days prior to the Planning & Zoning
meeting that would have been held on July 2 (and a July 26 for the vote by the Commissioners), by a fluke incident, local homeowners caught wind of the proposal in mid-May. Jeff Allen was among one of the first to start posting and sharing his concern on social media. Larry Rose created a Facebook group. Others saw the buzz, and they shared it. And shared it. And something began to happen. New community leaders emerged, organization and structure formed, and a communication highway emerged and caught like wildfire. A website, a GoFundMe page, flyers, t-shirts and signs were created. Tee shirt sales and donations have raised enough money to retain an Atlanta attorney to help in the fight. And something else began to happen. People were going door-to-door and assembling to spread the word about the rezoning in front of subdivisions and shopping centers. “With only a few days’ notice [and in some cases, only a few hours’],
we got six-hundred people to attend a community meeting at Graystone Church on May 23rd,” said Rose. “Keep in mind that this was both graduation and Memorial Day weekend. We had tee shirts, lawn signs and flyers at that meeting.” One of the busiest weeks of the year for families. Citizens set about learning how to fight the proposed rezoning by educating themselves on county rezoning processes, waste, water and health issues. Neighbors started talking to neighbors. Business owners took notice, and many threw their support behind the opposition. “We’ve taken notice of those that have supported us in this fight,” says Larry. “It’s all about the movement, about a community coming together,” said Rose. Once word about the rezoning got out, people from all walks of life came together for a cause. They were opposing heavy industrial rezoning near their schools and homes, but the movement was bigger than that. They were linking arms to protect their community.
Live Healthy Gwinnett Encourages Healthy Habits
Charlotte J. Nash
County Business
Free yoga in Gwinnett County parks, an initiative of Parks and Recreation’s award-winning Live Healthy Gwinnett program, is expanding this fall due to its popularity. Led by certified instructor volunteers, yoga sessions will be offered at Vines Park on Sundays, Alexander Park and Ronald Reagan Park on Tuesdays, McDaniel Farm Park (Toddler & Me) on Wednesdays, Simpsonwood Park on Thursdays, and Freeman’s Mill, Little Mulberry Park and the Historic Courthouse on Saturdays. Times vary. Details will be posted soon at www.gwinnettparks.com. This year marks the fifth anniversary of Live Healthy Gwinnett, which launched in 2014 as a partnership between the Gwinnett County Department of Community Services and Eastside Medical Center. In those five years, they’ve worked with 145 agencies and groups to put on 787 programs and events that have drawn almost
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24,000 participants plus 18,500 summer campers. So far this year, 182 volunteers have put in more than 700 hours running 51 programs and events with 4,544 participants and 30 partners. The goals are to promote healthy, active lifestyles and engage residents in personal wellness, focusing on four major areas: Be Active, Eat Healthy, Get Checked, and Be Positive. A 2013 study showed about 20 percent of Gwinnett residents get no leisure time physical activity and more than a quarter of the adult population is at higher risk for serious health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, cancer, osteoarthritis, respiratory problems, and stroke. In response, Live Healthy Gwinnett has developed the Be Active Gwinnett mobile recreation truck that brings sports and physical activities directly to underserved communities. It visits housing authorities, apartment complexes, child care facilities, extended stay hotels, faith-based facilities, new home developments, schools, camps, parks, afterschool programs, libraries, and community events. The truck brings activities such as obstacle courses, hula hoops, jump ropes, broad jump, agility hurdles, giant tunnels, pop-up soccer, jumbo stacks, parachutes, fitness spots/dice, gaga ball, flag football, junior golf, nine squares in the air, bubble soccer, and more. If you’d like to request a visit by the Be Active Gwinnett truck to your community, call 770.822.8825 or email
info@livehealthygwinnett.com. A related effort, called Harvest Gwinnett, is now building the first of three community gardens in County parks, working with Georgia Gwinnett College, the Sheriff’s Office, and the city of Lawrenceville. It’s a low-cost, sustainable effort to help address food deserts and counteract food insecurities faced by seniors and families. The first garden is at Rhodes Jordan Park in Lawrenceville. Water Resources has sponsored a similar community garden at the Lanier Filter Plant since 2008. Live Healthy Gwinnett also sponsors free community health fairs including one at Bogan Park on July 27, Best Friend Park on September 27, and Lenora Park on November 9. In June, Live Healthy Gwinnett attracted more national attention when the National Recreation and Park Association awarded its Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Award for Health Equity to Tina Fleming, community services director, and Lindsey Jorstad, outreach manager. The well-deserved award honored them for implementing “a systems change approach to reduce health disparities in his/her community within the past two years.” The foundation seeks to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity to live in healthy environments. Gwinnett County wants you and your family to be active, eat healthy, get checked, and be positive. So here’s to your health.
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Special photo
Caption for photo with a whiteboard in the background: Leaders in the movement to oppose the rezoning on Ozora Rd. L-R: Larry Rose, Jeff Allen, Nicole Cummings, Amanda Leftwich, Robyn Mauck and Ashley Smith.
The 51.62 acre rezoning is large enough to be considered a development of regional impact; therefore, the Atlanta Regional Commission and county planning staff must review and weigh in on the matter. Darron Britt and Buddy Johnson, who are the listed developers, withdrew the application in late June and then met with a couple of the new leaders in opposition. They stated they be would regrouping and looking at their options to bring another rezoning request and application in the future. When and whether the matter will resurface is unknown, but area residents are ready to continue the fight. “Historically, developers have been allowed to run amuck in Gwinnett County. People believe that their city and county leaders must know what they’re doing, so they don’t pay attention and get involved in things like this,” said Ashley Smith, a Willowwind resident and one of the leaders of the rezoning opposition. “I admit that I used to be that person, but not anymore. We’ve learned that we can make a difference, even if things like this are considered to be ‘done deals,” like so many things here in Gwinnett seem to be.” Amanda Leftwich, another opposition leader, said, “I was clearly told that this (rezoning) was a done deal, and I said, ‘No. I want to hear something different.’” Leftwich has been a hands-on leader of the community opposition movement. Nicole Cummings lives in Kensington Forest, and the rezoning, if approved, would bring the waste transfer station right up to her back yard. “This has touched everyone who lives here, even the children. A local daycare center, in response to this movement, has begun teaching children about protecting the environment and getting involved in the community. This is not a ‘not in my backyard issue. It’s a not-in-anybody’s backyard issue,” says Nicole. Opposition leaders are proud of the stance that thousands are taking against a plan that, in their view, would negatively impact the community and county. They are even more proud of all the good that has come from the swell of support.
When a woman from Owen County, Indiana, faced a similar rezoning near her neighborhood, she sought the Facebook Group for help. Larry Rose spoke with her on the phone, and she later posted in the Group, “Thanks to of you who responded to my request and armed me with good information, we were able to persuade our zoning board to decline [the rezoning].” According to Larry Rose, they mean to maintain the Facebook Group as a resource and for advocacy purposes for Gwinnett and beyond. “We learned that we can take a stand and make a difference,” said Robin Mauck, another leader of the opposition. “We learned how to communicate important news, using social media and e-mail,” added Rose. These “newborn” community leaders learned quickly how to communicate and get things done at both the county and state level. They learned how to mobilize and equip their community to effect change. And perhaps most important, neighbors of differing political views, diverse races and ethnicities, men, women and even children, rose up in a common cause. “This has shown that community is stronger than partisan politics,” said Jeff Allen. What none of them saw coming were the friendships that would emerge out of it. For some, it was an opportunity to cross their mailboxes and talk with their neighbors. In the case of Robin and Jeff Allen, a nearby resident who became an active opposition leader, it rekindled an old friendship from when they worked together on a local school council. Others learned they had attended high school together. And just like that, the town of sidewalk and brick seemed like a community of people. Energized and enthused, these individuals know they have each other’s backs. Together they mean to keep a watch on what happens in the county and are prepared to fight any rezoning that will place waste stations in residential areas. FB: Stop the waste transfer station on Ozora Road! Web: www.stopozorarezoning.com GoFundMe: Stop the waste transfer
on Ozora Road!
July 2019
Ask the Senior Care Expert
Early Warning Signs of Dementia
Tim Golden BrightStar Care
Special Photo
The most common reason people call my office seeking in-home care is that the caller is responsible for a loved one suffering from dementia and that loved one can’t be left alone. One of the most important things we can ask when dealing with loved ones as they age is “what are the early warning signs of dementia?” Throughout this article, I will be using the term “dementia”. Alzheimer’s and dementia are not the same things. Alzheimer’s is a
financial piece of this so challenging is that most of us are really private when it comes to finances. You may not know there is a problem until the problem has grown to the point where it can no longer be kept secret. A consistent theme throughout these articles I’ve written has been the need for open communication. If you have someone with whom you are close and that person is having financial issues related to dementia, you need to know about it as soon as possible. Financial problems can get out of hand quickly and the sooner you are aware the sooner you can do something. One of the saddest things I see on an all too frequent basis is seniors getting scammed. Dementia sufferers have difficulty making rational financial decisions, which makes them easy targets for scammers. Once someone has been scammed out of money there is very little chance of ever getting that money back. Another warning sign of dementia is putting things away in unusual places and then not being able to remember where those things are. Often those suffering from dementia will accuse other of stealing those
form of dementia but there are numerous other types of dementia. I will be using the more inclusive term dementia but what I am saying applies to Alzheimer’s also. One of the most common ways people become aware that a loved one may be experiencing dementia-related issues is an inability to handle what previously had been simple daily tasks. Dementia sufferers often have difficulty making seasonally appropriate clothing choices. Another clothing related issue we often see is wearing the same outfit over and over. Maybe the clothing they wear is not kept clean. Hygiene is another common clue. Someone who has always paid attention to personal appearance is not bathing regularly or at all. Maybe they spent time every morning putting makeup on and preparing themselves before the day started but suddenly they are no longer doing so and don’t seem to care. Issues related to monthly bills is another potential warning sign. You notice bills piling up when you visit or bill collectors calling where that loved one never had problems paying bills before. What makes the
items. Something else to keep an eye out for is withdrawal from normal social activities. Maybe there has been a group of friends that meet regularly for bridge or other social activities and suddenly your loved one is not going. Where does one go if one has questions about whether or not a loved one may be suffering from dementia? Start with the family doctor. He/she might refer you to a specialist like a neurologist or a geriatric psychiatrist. This topic, like most I talk about in these articles, is much more complex than can be adequately covered in 500 +/- words. For more information, I encourage you
to visit the Alzheimer’s Association at www.alz.org. Tim Golden is the owner of BrightStar Care, Lawrenceville. You can reach Tim at (404)281-1537 or by emailing asktheseniorcareexpert@ gmail.com. For more information please visit http://www.brightstarcare. com/lawrenceville/ -Tim Golden BrightStar Care (404)281-1537 PO Box 634 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 email: asktheseniorcareexpert@gmail.com
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Gwinnett Pulse Everett Samples 90th Birthday Celebration By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com Everett Samples’ 90th Birthday Celebration was held on June 22, 2019 at the Lawrenceville First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall on 165 Clayton St. The event was hosted by the Samples Family who invited the entire community to come join the festivities held from 2-4 p.m. and to celebrate Everett’s big day. Nicknamed “Big E”, Everett was born on June 27, 1929, and in celebrating his life, Everett’s family took time to honor his devotion as a husband, father, brother and uncle and to recognize his many accomplishments. In his younger days, Everett was a farmer and became celebrated as hero for serving in the US Army during the Korean War. His pastimes include gardening, fishing and hunting. Everett is known for having a hearty grin, firm Christian beliefs, and his character is exemplified through the many friends he cultivated and maintained throughout his life. At the birthday celebration, Everett’s family asked guests not to brings gifts. Only their presence was requested at the party where they enjoyed each other’s company and slices of birthday cake. The celebration took place the week prior to Everett’s actual birthday.
Everett Samples at his 90th Birthday celebration.
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Everett Samples as a young man in 1953.
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Everett Samples in uniform besides his wife Sibyl Lovin Samples.
GDOT looking for input on future Scenic Highway widening project The Georgia Department of Transportation is in the beginning stages of project development for the widening of Scenic Highway from Highway 78 to Sugarloaf Parkway and is looking for input on how the project will affect environmental, economic and social concerns in the area. There is no immediate timeline for this project. The design for the project is being developed at the same time as an Environmental Analysis and a review of environmental laws and regulations. And now GDOT needs residents’ help. “In particular, GDOT would appreciate your assistance in identifying low-income and minority neighborhoods,” a GDOT letter to the city reads. “This would also include help in identifying neighborhood leaders and minority groups or associations located throughout the affected communities within the project’s area of potential effect. We would like to be certain that these communities are recognized and given the opportunity
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By Staff Reports
to fully participate and provide meaningful input in the project development process.” Residents who have concerns
about the project and its potential impact can contact Public Information Officer Brian Arrington at barrington@snellville.org.
July 2019
Salem Church Special Opportunity exercises for less active members and some of those participants remained seated while following Donna’s instructions. The more active group showed amazing flexibility as they performed high impact exercises to fast music and followed Donna’s instructions. One part of the exercise
required participants to lift weights as they went through the routines demonstrated by Donna. Donna Jones is an amazing fitness instructor as she leads class members as they reach their goals of weight loss, cardio fitness, and improved blood pressure readings.
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Front Row: Marva Terrell, Mark Weaver, Kevin Terrell, Jaylen Shannon, Richard Brown; Second Row: standing Sherrie McConnell, seated Sonia Blake, Jean Cooper, Seressa Woodard, Beverly Barton; Third Row: Instructor Donna Jones, Lynne Harper, Gaylene Betts, Maureen Daniels, Sarah Wilson, Juanita Seals, Michelle Bigham, Nadine Brown.
By Mary Frazier Long Salem Missionary Baptist Church on Killian Hill Road in Lilburn is the oldest African American Church in Gwinnett County; it dates back to the 1860s. The members of this historic church have some modern and interesting programs available to them. One of the new opportunities
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presently in place at Salem Church is the fitness class led by Donna Jones. The classes are available to church members and guests. The class that I observed meets Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings beginning at 7 p.m. The exercise groups meet in the Heritage building which houses the church business office, the pastor’s office, the history room, and a large
gathering room. On my recent visit to the church, I saw one of the fitness classes in action and the amazing exercises led by Donna Jones made me wonder how the members kept up such a fast pace. Just watching Donna shout out instructions and lead the participants made me break out in a sweat. There was a section of the group devoted to
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Briscoe Park, the ‘Jewel’ of Snellville By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com Those who have lived in Snellville since the ‘70s or earlier may remember when there wasn’t a single park in city limits. Longtime residents may also remember that around that time, a local activist by the name of Thomas W. Briscoe organized a crew to change that. Snellville’s very first park was created in 1974. It required the combined efforts of the mayor and city council as well as other local organizers including T.W. Briscoe. A grant called The Land and Water Conservation Fund Project paid 50 percent of the park’s $486,000 cost, and the remainder was paid by the city. The park was named after its visionary planner and later became known to many as “the jewel of the city.” As former mayor Emmett Clower recalls, “It was a selling point. When someone was trying to sell property, they would show potential buyers the park, and it helped property values.” Four purchases were required to acquire the entire park property, which now spans 95 acres. Today, Briscoe Park features amenities that allow locals to come fish at the lake, play sports, have picnics and events, swim and enjoy the outdoors. Lisa Platt is the Director of Snellville’s Parks and Recreation Department and oversees all four of Snellville’s City Parks, as well as the city’s senior service programs. Her office is in the guest services building at Briscoe Park. Of the facilities she oversees, Briscoe is the only one that is open to the public, and so Platt considers it a priority to ensure the community knows it’s there and that they can utilize the
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Located at Briscoe Park, Pate Lake was built in the 1950s and has been a cherished fishing spot for long-time Snellville locals.
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Youth Soccer event at Briscoe Park.
park for their enjoyment. “My job is, first, to serve the public and reach as many different people as possible,” Platt said. “At one point, we were known for our soccer program, but we want people to do more things at the park. We want the park to be used by everyone.” That’s a shift from her previous position with Park Maintenance. “At that time, my main goal was to make sure the park was as safe as possible. That’s still part of my job, but now, my focus is to make sure we offer as many programs and do enough to bring as many different kinds of people as possible.”
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A swim meet at Briscoe Park’s Pool.
Platt advises those looking for a place to host their next family reunion or get together to consider Briscoe. Its amenities include: four pavilions, a gazebo, two indoor event rooms, two softball fields, two basketball courts, two softball fields, and two basketball courts. “We welcome folks to come utilize any of the tennis or the basketball courts on a first-come-first-served basis. We have a pool, and people can fish on the lake, no permit needed. We have
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playgrounds, and we do allow field rentals for those who want to make a reservation for a pavilion and utilize a field.” In addition, Briscoe is home to many summer camps, youth sports leagues, and programs lead by churches and other organizations who rent the park’s fields and amenities. The park staff runs a few of their own programs such as an Adult Softball league and swim lessons at the park’s pool which is open until Labor Day. And as Briscoe expands, they may add more programming. The park is entering the fourth phase of its Master Plan and may soon undergo an expansion funded by SPLOST. Some ideas for the expansion include a multi-use building with a gym and indoor basketball courts. But before anything is confirmed, Parks and Recreation will need to revisit the Master Plan to ensure it still meets the needs of the community. “I’ve been here for 16 years, and — typical of every professional industry, and even with the kind of sports people play — you get fads, and some things come and go. So, something we try to do is try to move with that ebb and flow and keep up with whatever is going on in order to give the community what it wants. Demographics and age often affect what is wanted from our local parks, and our job is to keep up with the basics of that and know what our community wants.” Snellville still ranks among Gwinnett’s smaller cities, and, according to Platt, its Parks and Recreation Department reflects that intimacy. “It goes back to that personal touch. When something gets too big, and you have all these layers, it’s hard to keep that. We tend to be more in touch and have more response to the public.” While there are many city parks in Gwinnett, the cities that do not have a Parks and Recreation Department outnumber those that do. Platt considers Snellville fortunate to have kept theirs. “I believe we should always keep a city Parks and Recreation Department,” she said.
It’s that close connection with the community which makes Platt’s job interesting. A Florida native who moved to Gwinnett well into her career, Platt enjoys hearing old stories about Briscoe’s man-made lake which was built before there was a local parks system. “I still hear stories about people swimming and fishing on the lake when it was private property. I’m not from here, so it’s interesting to hear how central this place has been to the community,” Platt said. Part of that hype, Platt believes, is because parks offer holistic support to the community. “My standpoint is that the mind, body and soul are connected. So, in explaining that, my go-to story is – There’s a secretary. She’s been answering calls all day, and her stress levels are rising. So, she grabs her lunchbox and drives to the nearest park to watch the geese. Then she goes back work to work, and her stress is relieved so she can get through the day. Maybe she doesn’t even get out of the car – but my point is, we should be able to offer that complete package of mind, body and soul. We should provide a safe haven for our community.” Of the park, Mayor Barbara Bender of Snellville said, “The city is very fortunate to have the Park as an amenity. Supporting our community in recreational opportunities is a major priority for the City Council and maintaining and enhancing our park has been a priority.” The mayor also said the city is working on their “Greenway” Master Plan to connect Briscoe Park with their upcoming Towne Center and Oak Rd. Park. “We have applied for a grant to allow us to construct a portion of the trail to connect the Towne Center with Briscoe Park,” Mayor Bender said. Briscoe Park is located at 2500 Sawyer Pkwy. in Snellville. Visit the webpage (https://www.snellville.org/ parks-recreation) to learn about upcoming events and programs. To to reserve a space, call the park office at (770)985-3535.
July 2019
Business Spotlight: Jamey Toney offers insurance, financial advice and free workshops in Snellville
By Staff Reports
By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com As a Certified Financial Planner, Jamey Toney works with his trusted staff to meet the financial needs of the people of Snellville. Toney owns the Country Financial Agency off Scenic Hwy. in Snellville and provides insurance and investment services. When asked how he got into the business, Toney said, “When I started in insurance I worked for Cotton States Insurance which was a well-known name in the Southeast, but after a few years passed in my career with Cotton States, they were bought out by Country Financial whose home base is in Illinois. So, I’ve worked for two different companies providing the same services for over 14 years.” After graduating from UGA, Toney went on to receive additional certifications and education. As a financial representative, he has grown his business and cultivated many trusting relationships with his clients along the way. “I have built a successful business on helping people,” Toney said. “Normally if someone seeks a financial representative, they need help, and I pride myself on the fact that I don’t set restrictions or parameters on my service. I will help someone who has $5, or I will work with someone with $50 million.” Toney works to meet the needs of each client by providing the service that will best protect their assets, whether that is a car, home, or a sizable financial estate. Explaining how clients can pick and choose his insurance and investment services, Toney said, “Some want to use us for insurance like they would with Progressive or AllState. But the majority [of our clients] combine the two, because insurance is considered risk management. If you’re a millionaire, and you want to stay that way, it’s best to get insurance on your assets as risk management.” Although he’s the face of the agency, Toney relies on his team to provide personable service to each of his clients. Often, certain customers request to work with Trudy Lamont, Cyndi Grissom, or his newest team member, Deborah D’ambra, while others prefer to work with the head honcho himself. “Some of our clients prefer to work with Trudy because she has existing relationships with them from years working with the prior agency owner. Other clients want to go directly to me, and that’s fine. The way I see it, there’s always a ‘we’ in team, and we’re lucky that each of us has unique skillsets.” According to Toney, the times someone will most likely need the
July 2019
Gwinnett County Board of Education Approves OneTime Salary Adjustment
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The staff at Country Financial in Snellville: L-R — Cynthia D. Grissom, Office Assistant; Trudy Lamont, Service Assistant; Jamey Toney; Deborah M D’Ambra, Service Assistant.
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Born and raised in Snellville, Jamey Toney is the owner of the Country Financial on Scenic Highway. Toney hosts regular workshops at his office and invites anyone interested in educating themselves on financial strategy to attend. These sessions typically last an hour and delve into a single topic such as Social Security.
shared that his greatest passion, “(I)s helping people in need.” He invites those in Snellville to attend some of the free workshops at his Country Financial Agency. These sessions last about an hour and typically delve into a single topic such as Social Security or retirement planning. “Contact me for a free consultation, or call our team to learn about the workshops,” said Toney who can be reached during office hours at (770) 985-9757. “We don’t offer a free steak dinner, but you usually don’t want to trust the guys that do that. We’re going to provide you with sound, professional advise that will serve you your entire life.”
At its June 20 meeting, the Gwinnett County Board of Education unanimously approved a one-time salary adjustment to be paid to all full-time, benefited employees of Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) who received a payroll check in May 2019. The salary adjustment of $300 will be paid in a lump sum in the June 2019 monthly and second semi-monthly paychecks. The one-time adjustment is possible due to savings related to the employer contribution the district pays to the State Health Benefit Plan (SHBP). Chief Financial Officer Joe Heffron explains, “The state recently announced that all state agencies and school districts will be participating in a one-month SHBP employer contribution holiday for the month of June.” CEO/Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks recommended that the net savings realized by the district be passed along to employees. “We
hope this one-time pay adjustment will send a much-deserved thank you to all of our employees as they are the key to Gwinnett County Public Schools’ success,” says Superintendent Wilbanks. Providing a one-time salary adjustment is not a new practice for the Gwinnett County Board of Education, which took similar action in 2014 and 2016. The School Board and Superintendent feel the current salary adjustment is once again an appropriate use of the additional funds. The one-time pay adjustment in June will have no impact on the salary increases approved for employees in the School Board’s FY2020 Budget. These consist of a $3,000 cost-ofliving increase for all employees paid on the teacher salary schedule; a 2% cost-of-living increase for all employees not paid on the teacher salary schedule; and a salary step increase for all eligible employees. These raises will take effect beginning with employees’ first salary payments for the 2019-2020 school year.
Live Local, Shop Local, Support Local Share your community news by emailing sharing@gwinnettcitizen.com. BUSINESS PROMOTIONS OR PRESS RELEASES? We offer promotional space for purchase in our printed edition, including a non-profit discount. Email us at advertising@gwinnettcitizen.com or call 770-963-3699 for a quote.
service of a financial consultant are when they first get employed, when they have their first child, and when someone retires. A soon-to-be father, Toney understands the importance of timing when it comes to finances. He and his wife are anticipating the birth of their first child and relate to the uncertainty many feel during major life moments like theirs. “I would recommend that everyone seek the help of a financial consultant at some point in their life, just to see if there is anything they should be doing that could save them money in the long run,” Toney said. Born and raised in Snellville, Toney often gives back to the community. He serves as treasurer for Snellville Tourism and Trade and formerly held office as president with the Gwinnett Sunrise Rotary Club where he continues to volunteer regularly. “I personally enjoy volunteering,” Toney said. A few additional pastimes of his include traveling, playing tennis and golfing at Summit Chase Country Club. Whether it’s in his personal time or in his professional life, Toney
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Cindy Hong “Freedom Fighters” Art Exhibit, Giving Voice to the Voiceless By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com Cindy Hong is an art teacher at Sugar Hill Elementary. She moved from Korea as a child and spent most of her life in Gwinnett County. She later attended the University of Georgia, where she chose to double major in two separate art fields — Art Education and Drawing and Painting. In 2015, Cindy witnessed something that would define her purpose as an artist. It was her sophomore year in college, and she was visiting family in Seoul when she met some of the country’s last surviving “Comfort Women.” “Every Wednesday in front of Japanese Embassy in Seoul, these grandmothers would protest, asking the Japanese government to apologize and admit their fault. Many of the women were ill and couldn’t move easily, but they would come every Wednesday, and young adults would join them. That’s how I learned about the Comfort Women,” said Cindy. In WWII, approximately 200,000 young women were trafficked and enslaved. Known as “Comfort Women”, many of these girls either were kidnapped from their families or willing left under the pretense of a well-paid job, only to be enslaved as sex workers for the Japanese Imperial Army. Many of these women died at the hands of their captors, while others have since deceased from old age and other causes. But 21 of these women are alive today and have shared their stories in hopes that it will never be forgotten. Reading about the torture these women faced, Cindy’s discomfort escalated. Eventually, she decided to channel that emotion for her senior exit show and tell the story visually. But recreating the Comfort Women’s tale was no easy task. “It was like, this is real, and I wanted to share their story instead of just showing off my skill,” Cindy said. Above all, she didn’t want to only portray the pain these women suffered or define them as victims. It was a stop and go process, but Cindy finally found a way to do the Comfort Women justice. To show their triumph in the face of torture as well as their resilience and hope, she decided to name her exhibit “Freedom Fighters”. To Cindy, “The name ‘Freedom Fighters’ is including us in the story because they are a fighter, and we are not just going to stay silent about it. It’s sort of a label for them and us.” As she came to that realization, Cindy decided to simplify the story and ‘bring out the women themselves’. “So, I started drawing and researching the women who passed away, and I wrote down what they said word-for-word.” Her “Presence” series demonstrates that process. The large framed pieces depict only a chair, drawn in graphite and overlaid by Korean calligraphy. “In Korea, every region has its own dialect. Each of the women’s stories show their uniqueness through their own dialects. Each piece in this series has different stories of different women. Thus, the chairs all have unique style depicting that these women are not to be generalized but known and shown uniquely.” As a rule, Cindy’s style is abstract, although surreal is the best word to describe a piece she called “Butterfly”. “The butterfly flies passed through the rigid grid, which symbolizes the kind of captivity they were under,” Cindy said of the 3D painting, which stands out as the most vibrant in the exhibit. Blended in red and yellow, it signifies the Freedom Fighter’s hope and courage. The
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Divorced? Separated? We Understand - You Don’t Have To Go Through It Alone By Joette Segars Separation and divorce are among life’s most difficult, painful and stressful experiences. Healing is not easy, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Unless you’ve been there, it’s hard to understand the hurt that comes from separation and divorce. That’s why many of your friends and family don’t fully understand what you are going through and don’t know how best to help you. We do. Our DivorceCare group is led by people who have been through divorce and successfully rebuilt their lives. We understand how you feel because we’ve been in the same place. We’ll show you how
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Cindy Hong stands beside a piece in her “Freedom Fighters” exhibit at the Second Anniversary Celebration for “The Young Girl’s Statue for Peace Memorial” held at the Korean American Association of Greater Atlanta on June 28, 2019 . butterfly is an icon of The Comfort Women as is the image of an empty chair. In the city of Brookhaven, the chair icon has been memorialized by “The Young Girl’s Statue for Peace Memorial” which was dedicated by the Atlanta Comfort Women Memorial Task Force (ACWTF) and local representatives at Blackburn Park on June 28, 2018. Depicting two chairs, one empty, one occupied by a young girl, the statue pays homage to the women who passed as well as the survivors. On June 28, 2019, Cindy’s Freedom Fighter exhibit was displayed at an event held at the Korean American Association of Greater Atlanta in celebration of the statue’s second anniversary. Showcased beside her work were paintings and drawings made by the last surviving Comfort Women who were able to tell their story through a visual medium during their art therapy session. That evening, those stories were brought to life through “A Stolen Girl’s Story: Opera” where performers put on a dramatic representation of the lives memorialized by the statue. The “Freedom Fighters” exhibit was also displayed at the City of Sugar Hill earlier that same month. While her senior exit show included only six pieces, Cindy was able to add to the original exhibit, creating enough art to fill an entire room at City Hall. Describing the exhibit, Cindy wrote, “This series portrays a broken yet triumphant story of Comfort Women and the people who fight for freedom every day.” The UGA grad doesn’t have as much time to create, now that she’s a teacher, but she finds joy in exposing her students to art and helping them express what they feel looking at it. She’ll never forget the day she realized why she wanted to teach. It was during a mission trip to Honduras where Cindy visited a house where a woman lived alone with her twin daughters, both of whom were deaf. “They were kind of outcasts and lived on top of a mountain,” Cindy said of the family. “I could sense a deep depression to be so outcasted, and perhaps because they were raised in so much darkness, the mom said the girls never laughed and almost never smiled. But while we were
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Cindy Hong’s 3D painting, called “Butterfly” is meant to showcase the hope and courage of the “Freedom Fighters” or “Comfort Women” enslaved in WWII by the Japanese Army. there, I started drawing in the sand, and I drew a picture of the girl’s house on the mountain, and I drew Jesus carrying his cross walking towards the top to their house and I told them that he loved them. They were smiling and laughing out loud, so their mom ran out to see what was going on. And she hugged me saying thank you because she had never heard them laugh like that before.” It was then that Cindy realized she wanted to teach and create and bring joy by shedding light on people and stories that would otherwise be forgotten. “I think for me as an artist and as someone who loves kids, I realized what my purpose is as an artist,” Cindy said of her visit with the twins. “My art can create joy, and I realized it’s important for me to create and not just hold onto it. I chose to be a voice for the voiceless, and as I continue to create, I want to share their stories. The stories of the voiceless.” When she’s not teaching elementary school, Cindy accepts commission work and creates as often as possible. More of her work can be seen online at cindyhongart.com and on Instagram: @Cindy. Hong.Art.
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to deal with the hurt caused by your separation or divorce. If you are in need of an ongoing support team, then join the next 13week group session of DivorceCare which will begin Sunday, August 18, 2019, 4:00 p.m., in the Faith Annex at Lilburn First Baptist Church, 770921-1220, 285 Main Street, Lilburn, GA. 30047. Seminar sessions include “What’s Happening to Me?,” “Facing My Anger,” “Facing My Loneliness,” “Depression,” “New Relationships,” “KidCare,” and “Forgiveness”. Child Care (through 5th grade) will be provided upon request. For contact information, visit www.divorcecare.org and click on ‘Find a Group’. You may also visit www.firstbaptist.net and click on Ministries>DivorceCare.
Lawrenceville church names new pastor By Staff Reports The congregation of one of Gwinnett County’s oldest churches has approved a new pastor. The Rev. Richard Williams will assume the post in July at First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) which began in 1909 as a tent meeting in Lawrenceville. Its current campus is 3495 Sugarloaf Parkway where it hosts several community and religious groups. Williams is a current graduate of Candler School of Theology at Emory University with a Master of Divinity degree. He also holds a masters in theology from St. John’s University in New York and an undergraduate in theology and religious studies from St. John’s. He is a fourth generation Disciples of Christ minister. Williams is also a part-time member of the Georgia regional staff as director of new church development. He will continue in that role. Williams is leaving the post of associate minister at Ray of Hope Christian Church in Decatur, GA. “He comes to us with a passion for evangelism and making the community aware of who we are. He has had great success with small group empowerment and growth at Ray of Hope,” said Jimmy Peeples, Lawrenceville First Christian Church board chair. Williams said, “Lawrenceville has great potential for church growth.” Williams and his wife, Rose, and their three sons – Michael, Gabriel and Malachi – will be moving to the Lawrenceville area this summer. The couple said they were drawn to the
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Rev. Richard Williams
Gwinnett location because of the excellent schools. Williams will work through July with interim minister the Rev. Melinda W. McDonald, who served the church a year and a half. The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) is a mainline Protestant Christian denomination of about 800,000 members in the United States and Canada. It is one of the largest faith groups founded on American soil. To contact the church call (770) 963-9922, or go to the website at www. lawrencevillefirstchristian.org for more information. The church also is on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ LawrencevilleFirstChristian Williams was selected after more than 40 candidates were examined as part of the regional search and call process that included membership surveys and assessment of community needs. He was unanimously approved by the congregation after delivering a sermon on June 9, Pentecost Sunday. He is scheduled to preach July 7, 2019.
To Place a Classified email advertising@gwinnettcitizen.com July 2019
Your Green: Inflation and Your Retirement
Roger Green, MSFS,CFP ® Green Financial Resources
Inflation is something frequently overlooked in retirement planning. Inflation can be defined as an overall upward price movement of goods and services in our economy as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI), and it is what makes most things cost more today than they did in prior years. Because ongoing inflation increases the cost of goods and ser vices, it takes away the buying power of your money. You will need more money to live on in the future than you need currently to maintain your standard of living, and this is ver y important to keep in mind when setting goals for retirement. After hitting numbers like
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13.4% inflation in 1980 and 5.2% in 1991, inflation had been trending downward from its most recent peak of 3.6% in 2011. But after dipping to 0.4% in 2015, it is now again on the rise. Inflation was at 1.00% in 2016, 2.14% for 2017, and then hit 2.5% for 2018. The 2019 projection is for around 2.0%. (Statista 2019). The average annual inflation from 1990 through 2018 was 2.46%, but the total cumulative inflation for the 28 years from January 1990 through December 2018 is 102.46% (InflationData.com). This rate of inflation means something that cost $100 in Januar y of 1990 would cost over $200 in December of 2018 - in other words prices more than doubled (i.e. purchasing power fell by half) and that is what happens at relatively “low” inflation rates. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics website calculator, if you look back further to the span between January 1956 and December 2018, inflation was much higher, making what you could buy for $100 back in 1956 cost you over $930 in May 2019. To drive home this point, depending on your age, you may now be driving a car that
cost more than your first home! Why is this important to your retirement planning? Inflation turns your retirement goals into moving targets. You want to be able to afford the things you need and want in retirement, often years in the future; so inflation must be accounted for in your planning. What must you always do to hit a moving target? You must lead the target to hit the target. There is a useful financial tool, called the “Rule of 72” that can be used to help you calculate how many years it will take for prices to double, based on the current inflation rates. To apply this rule, you divide 72 by the inflation rate. For example, 72 divided by 3% average inflation equals = 24. This means it would take 24 years for prices to double based on an average 3% inflation rate. If the average was 4%, then it would only take 18 years for this to occur. Applying the Rule of 72 and this example to your retirement planning, you could say that if you are 24 years from an age 65 retirement (age 41), you would need double the annual income you calculate in
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today’s terms for each year of your retirement. Using a 3% average inflation rate, if you anticipate needing $25,000 a year in retirement based on today’s figures, then you would need double that figure – or $50,000 per year for retirement at 65. Inflation doesn’t stop at retirement, so if you retire at age 65, the income you will need will effectively again double ever y 24 years (by age 89) if a 3% average annual inflation rate continued during that timeframe. With today’s earlier retirements and long life spans, many people may see two or more doublings in cost during their retirement period, depending on the inflation rate. And that isn’t all - due to the high cost of healthcare, the effective inflationary rate for seniors has actually trended significantly higher than it has for the overall economy (Bureau of Labor Statistics). Healthcare accounts for about 13% of expenditures by those 65 and older, but only 5% for other age groups (2015 Center for Retirement Research at Boston College).
Your retirement planning must include planning for the impact of inflation. For most people, simply saving is not sufficient and they need growth, earnings, and the power of compounding on their money even throughout retirement - to help their assets grow enough to keep pace with inflation. To learn more, we recommend you register for one of our retirement planning classes offered through Gwinnett Technical College. No time for class? Contact us today for a no-cost consultation. Please visit www.RogerSGreen.com or call our office at 770.931.1414 for more information. We are here to help! Roger S. Green is an Investment Advisor Representative offering securities and advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial Resources, LLC is located at 3700 Crestwood Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096. Green Financial, Gwinnett Technical College and Cetera Advisors are not affiliated.
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The Gwinnett Roadrunner
“ON THE RUN” By Mar y Frazier Long
Mary Frazier Long
Gwinnett County Author, Historian
Mary Long Photo
Doggone good day.
Sibling love.
“Ask not what your country can do for you. Ask what you can do for your country.” ~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy “We seek peace, knowing that peace is the climate of freedom.” ~ Dwight Eisenhower
THE PAST IN GWINNETT • In 1902, the News-Herald advertised the cost of a funeral from $25 to $50.
”The man is the richest whose pleasures are the cheapest.” ~ Henry David Thoreau
• The July 18, 1940, News-Herald: “Mr. P.V. Kelley and R.S. Stephens have purchased a lot adjoining City Hall on West Crogan Street and will begin the erection of a 2 story building there. The old building once occupied by the picture show is being demolished.”
Mary Long Photo
QUOTABLES There is no education in the second kick of a mule.
IMPORTANT JULY EVENTS • Presidents born in July: James Garfield, Calvin Coolidge, and John Quincy Adams. • The Continental Congress adopted the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. • Aaron Burr mortally wounded Alexander Hamilton in a duel on July 11, 1804. • President Zachary Taylor died on July 9, 1850.
• The Gwinnett Journal July 13, 1933, “Vincent’s Beauty Shop on Clayton Street in the residence of Mr. and Mrs. J.V. Dunagan. Mrs. Haney Copeland partner with Mrs. Dunagan. Shampoo 20 cents, haircuts 15 cents. Telephone 43.”
• Scientists set off the first atomic bomb on July 16, 1945, in Alamogordo, New Mexico.
• The News-Herald reported in the May 1965 issue that Valorie Hutchison was valedictorian of the Hooper/Renwick Class of 1965, and Hazel Emerson was salutatorian.
THE DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE On July 4, 1776 representatives of the British colonies in North America adopted an eloquent statement setting forth the reasons for declaring their independence from Great Britain. Fifty men signed that document on August 2, 1776. The men from Georgia who signed the Declaration were George Walton, Button Gwinnett and Lyman Hall. The three Georgia signers were from the 13th colony to be settled
• The News-Herald February 14, 1949, “Robert Norton, Jr. has been appointed the chairman of the Red Cross Drive for Gwinnett County. Mr. Norton is a popular young business man of Lawrenceville and served for a number of years overseas in World War II. Ten months of his service time he spent as a prisoner of war having been shot down while on a mission as a flight engineer on a B25 Bomber over Austria in July 1944.”
• The Battle of Atlanta was on July 22, 1864.
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Mary Long Photo
Mary Long Photo
and Georgia is represented by the last stripe on the American Flag. A copy of the original Declaration is displayed in an upright case in the National Archives Building in Washington, D.C. Men who signed the document later were George Wythe who signed on August 27. On September 4, the document was signed by Richard Henry Lee, Elbridge Gerry, and Oliver Wolcott. Matthew Thornton signed on November 19, and Thomas McKean signed in 1781 bringing the total of signers to 56.
Niagra Falls.
Imogene Allen with Uncle Sam celebrating July 4th in 2005
SPECIAL QUILT Some amazing people live in Gwinnett County and Sally Folsom is one of those amazing and creative individuals. Sally spent her career as an educator for 34 years, the last years as a teacher at Walnut Grove School in Gwinnett County. Sally with her husband,
son and daughter traveled to many interesting places in this country, Paris, Alaska, London, Berlin, Virgin Islands are some of the locations where Sally and her family spent some time. They even survived a hurricane in St. Thomas. Along the way as they traveled and as her chil-
dren attended schools in this country they collected t-shirts which Sally made into a queen quilt top. The quilt top is an interesting and beautiful reminder of the places the Folsom Family remembers.
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Sally Folsom showing her Quilt Top
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A view of Sally Folsom’s Quilt
LAWRENCEVILLE FIRST BAPTIST CLOTHING MISSION 50TH ANNIVERSARY Fifty years ago the clothing mission at Lawrenceville First Baptist Church was established in a building behind the sanctuary on Luckie Street, and that clothing mission has served hundreds of people since that time. The mission depends on
Joan Beard.
volunteers some of whom have been working there since the mission began. The mission has grown and served the clothing needs of many people who purchase shoes, purses, hats, and other donated items. Children’s clothes are also available as
well as items for men and women; all are at bargain prices. The mission is open from Tuesday, Thursday and Saturdays from 9 until 11:30. Some of the Clothing Mission volunteers:
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Brenda Sue Davis.
Susan Williams.
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Norma Bennett.
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July 2019
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
VIRGINIA VISITORS Mattie Jones and her niece Cindy Smoot of Roanoke, Virginia came to Lawrenceville in June 2019 to spend a week with Mattie’s sister Stella McGuire and Stella’s family. Stella came to Lawrenceville from Virginia where she was born in Franklin County before she moved to Roanoke then to Lawrenceville. Stella and her husband J.C. were owners of The Biscuit Barn on Highway 29 before they retired.
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Mattie Jones and Cindy Smoot.
Robert Norton celebrated his 95th Birthday in June.
Friends of Robert Norton gathered at the Clayton Street McDonalds in Lawrenceville on June 7 to celebrate Robert’s 95th Birthday. Robert was born in Centerville, Georgia and served in the Army Air Corps during WWII. Robert’s plane was shot down in 1944 and he was captured by the Germans and gained his freedom when the war ended. Robert came back to Lawrenceville where he was in business with his father. Robert and Mary Kelley married and were parents of three
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PHOTOS FROM THE PAST There were dozens of cousins who were descendants of John and Maggie Peevy and they all lived in different parts of Gwinnett County. This photo was taken in 1994 at a family reunion.
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Friends were on hand to help Robert celebrate.
beautiful daughters: Claudia, Janet, and Nancy.
FIVE FORK TRICKUM ROAD: 10 MILES OF HISTORY BY BOBBIE TKACIK
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L-R: Maurice Frazier, Hazel Pruitt Carroll, Rubye Moore Cates, Dixie Peevy Johnson, Betty Peevy Still, Mary Frazier Long, Deloris Stephens Holley, Larry Peevy, Jane Pruitt Pealock.
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Mary Bagwell and Jean Jackson in 2016.
Bobbie has written a detailed account of one of the interesting roads in Gwinnett County and the book is available at the Historical Society in the Historic Courthouse in Lawrenceville. Bobbie was the feature speaker at the May meeting of the Society and she presented some of the history of the road in her talk.
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Doyle Johnson, Troyce Jackson and W.L. Thompson in 2007 Mary Long Photo
Bobbie Tkacik author of Five Fork Trickum Road: 10 Miles of History
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John Hopkins introduced Bobbie at the May meeting of the Historical Society
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Stella Berrong one of the Trustees of the Gwinnett Historical Society greeted members and visitors at the May meeting of the Society
July 2019
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Methodist Camp Meeting was June 23-27, 2019. This photo was taken at Camp Meeting 2006.
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Snellville group at lunch in 2004: Jim Rosser, Linda Calloway, and Nettie Rosser.
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Mary Long Photo
Taken at Eastside Hospital celebrating a birthday, L-R: volunteers Sherian Hedden, Jane Alexander, Evelyn Calston, Wanda Neighbors, Ann Britt.
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Blessing Backpacks, Blessing Lives at Snellville United Methodist Church By Andrea Carroll Summer is all about having fun with friends, enjoying sunny skies and sunny smiles. With summer break coming to an end, Snellville United Methodist Church wants to help with the back-to-school blues and to show students just how much God loves and wants to bless their lives! On Sunday, August 4th at 10:30am, Snellville UMC will be celebrating students and getting them energized for the upcoming school year with a Blessing of the Backpacks service followed by a Back-to-School Bash! This free event is for all school aged children, parents, teachers, administrators and support staff! School halls will once again be bustling with students, faculty and staff as the 2019/2020 school year kicks off in Gwinnett County on Monday, August 5th. For some, the return to school is exciting and brings the opportunity to see friends. For others, going back to school can be a time of anxiety, especially for anyone going to a new school or making the transi-
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tion from elementary to middle school, or from middle school to high school. For parents, each new school year can be a bittersweet time of change, excitement, and uncertainty. In the spirit of remembering what’s important this academic school year, the Blessing of the Backpacks service will begin at 10:30am in Snellville UMC’s Christian Life Center (CLC) where Dr. Jim Cantrell, Senior Pastor and Rev. James Savage, Associate Pastor will ask students to come forward with their backpacks to be blessed. Children and youth will be prayed for as they begin another school year. We’ll pray for peace when they feel nervous, focus when they feel distracted, energy when they feel tired, help making friends that build each other up and being friends to those who need them. We’ll pray for their safety and guidance when making decisions as they grow in wisdom and that they feel God’s loving care in all they do. As our teachers, administrators and support staff embark on a new school year, we will pray for endur-
ance in their daily tasks, energy and passion when teaching future generations, and that all interactions be bathed in patience and understanding. We’ll pray for guidance in their lessons to grow students in both knowledge and character, and to help us all support the work these teachers do building up our community and our future. This new school year is a fresh start and a chance to embrace the joy of learning – and who doesn’t love a good excuse for a celebration! Immediately following the Blessing of the Backpacks service, we’ll head outside for inflatable bouncy houses, games, hot dogs and hamburgers. The Kona Ice truck will be there to keep us cool during the summer heat as we kick-up our feet and enjoy cups of flavored shaved ice! The cost for Kona Ice ranges from $3 to $5 depending on the size. Please feel free to bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and sun umbrellas! We hope you’ll join us for this special event Sunday, August 4th at 10:30am at Snellville United Methodist Church, where we welcome all people into a growing relation-
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ship with Jesus. Snellville United Methodist Church is located at 2428 Main Street East in Snellville, across from the City of Snellville
Towne Green. For more information, please visit our website at snellvilleumc.org or contact the church office at (770) 972-9360.
July 2019
Author Katie Hart Smith releases final novel in historical fiction trilogy By Staff Reports In High Cotton and Magnolias, the protagonist, Addie Engel, continues her life journey as a nurse-in-training at Atlanta’s Sacred Heart Hospital School of Nursing, where she finds that hope, faith, love, and change are the only constants. Throughout High Cotton and Magnolias, Addie must discover her true grit as Atlanta undergoes an economic and social upheaval that will change the world. But while toiling over textbooks and patients and fighting to overcome the rising tensions of a country almost at war, Addie finds her eyes opened to disappointment, deception, and deceit . . . as well as the true colors of those closest to her. Yearning to find the familiar in the aftermath of all this stress — on top of a near-death experience — Addie can’t help but struggle with matters of the heart. Who does she truly love: Garrett, the boy-next-door she’s known all her life, or Randall, the dashing doctor who promises a brighter future? Despite daily disasters, a growing web of dark schemes, a deadly pandemic, and the biggest war the world has ever seen, Sacred Heart Medical Center and her medical staff all rise to the challenge. Whether they emerge triumphant is another matter entirely. Set in the maze of mounting social strain and growing pains that is early 20th century Atlanta, High Cotton and Magnolias is an immensely satisfying finale to Aspirations of the Heart and Hope Never Rests, novels that have received a place of honor in Georgia’s Governor’s Mansion Library. GC: Who or what inspired you to write the Sacred Heart series? KS: “The Sacred Heart series – Aspirations of the Heart, Hope Never Rests, and High Cotton and Magnolias – was inspired by my grandma, ‘Gigi,’ a strong-willed woman who defied her father’s orders to stay on the family farm in southern Indiana, marry, and have children. She wanted to pursue a college education so she secretly applied to nursing school at Methodist Episcopal Hospital in Indianapolis and was accepted. She and her mom sewed her uniform during the day and hid it away in her hope chest at night. Until one day when he came home off the fields, she was gone, having left for the big city. As a result, he disowned her. Gigi knew that an education was the key to breaking the chains of poverty. She wanted to become a registered nurse, serve others, travel the world, and experience a life well-lived. By being brave enough to follow her heart, Gigi forever changed our families’ trajectory.” “I took my grandma’s inspirational story and transplanted it into a city that I know and love dearly – Atlanta. Growing up, my dad was the organist for the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Church, downtown. The priests shared rich stories and tantalizing tales of the old South, how the
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church served as a hospital during the Civil War and wasn’t burned by Sherman during his march to the sea, about the architecture, and city’s historical landmarks. The experience sparked my creative imagination. After reading the Sacred Heart series, I invite readers to revisit Atlanta with new eyes, because the buildings and places I write about, many still are in existence today.” GC: Tell us about your inspiration for Sacred Heart Hospital. KS: “As a registered nurse, I pulled on the history and my different experiences either visiting or clinical experiences at the various hospitals in Atlanta. The best part of building Sacred Heart hospital was the ability to construct it in such a fashion that was authentic for the time when it came to developing the various wards and departments, to include my favorite parts of any hospital which are underground tunnels. Today, tunnels connect the main hospital to outpatient buildings and parking decks. Tunnels allow for the medical staff and/or patients to walk between facilities, especially during bad weather. I love hearing feedback from book clubs that tell me that they think that the hospital itself is its own character in the book because it is also evolving and changing just like the characters do over time.” GC: How did you weave in factual details into the historical fiction novels? KS: “I developed timelines for social issues, medical discoveries, political figures (local and national), origins of medical colleges and nursing schools, new food products, local and federal laws, and landmark events with the Great War and drew an intersection in time, allowing me the ability to weave in historical facts into the fictional storyline.” “Ideal for book club discussions, High Cotton and Magnolias contains rich topics about events that were occurring over 100 years ago that could be ripped from today’s headlines that include immigration, social settlements, healthcare for the indigent, pay to play press, mental illness, and a foreign government’s interference with the U.S. economy. “Readers tell me how they would love to see the series turned into a movie or produced for television because the subject matter is so relevant, the female characters buck soci-
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Georgia author and columnist, Katie Hart Smith introduced her latest novel, High Cotton and Magnolias, at a launch party held at Truth’s Community Clinic on Sunday, June 30, 2019, donating a portion of the book’s proceeds to the non-profit organization. (from L - R: Marcy Terranova, Scarlett Rigsby, Katie Hart Smith, Mamie Outler, Cassie Terranova, Marie Beiser)
ety’s expectations, and while the story takes place in Georgia, there are national and international touchpoints.” An accomplished author for twenty-five years, Katie Hart Smith has an expansive body of work ranging from medical, academic, children’s poetry, to memoir and historical fiction. A sought out speaker on a local and national level, Katie Hart Smith has been invited again to moderate the historical fiction panel at the 2019 AJC Decatur Book Festival. The book launch/signing party will be held at Truth’s Community Clinic, 250 Langley Dr., Suite #1316 in Lawrenceville on Sunday, June 30, 2019, from 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm. The public is welcome. Excited about new projects on the horizon, Katie Hart Smith looks forward to participating in future literary and philanthropic endeavors. “As a mentor and leader in my community, I feel that giving back is important. Two years ago, our family created the History of Nursing display at Georgia Gwinnett College/School of Nursing, donating my grandma’s cape, and her textbooks, memorabilia, medical instruments, report cards, vintage photos, and diploma and license. The display even has my nursing cap. We share my grandma’s story as a first-generation graduate with the students to inspire and light the way for the next generation of nursing students. In addition to volunteering in activities that support literacy or provide healthcare to those in need, I donate a portion of my book proceeds to support the nursing program at Georgia Gwinnett College or to Truth’s Community Clinic.” High Cotton and Magnolias is available via Deeds Publishing, major online book retailers, independent book stores, and libraries. For a complete listing of Smith’s publications or to learn about upcoming speaking and book signing events, visit: http:// www.katiehartsmith.com.
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Health, Beauty & Wellness Tips to tell if your athletic shoes are the right fit Sure they’re cute, but what about support? Beyond knowing your shoe size, most of us don’t give too much thought to the details of feet, like their shape or how they move. And
most of the time these factors don’t really matter when picking out shoes. However, athletic shoes are a whole different story. You have to consider whether or not your feet are wide or narrow, whether you have a high arch or are flat footed, and let’s not forget about pronation (how your foot rolls). Anyway, you get the point—there are an endless number of factors to consider when picking out athletic shoes. So where do you start? Kristie Delgado, MS, GMC’s Fitness Specialist provides some helpful tips: Try some on. But first, let’s get one common myth out of the way: shoes do not break in over time. If shoes don’t fit comfortably the first time you try them on, put them back and try on another pair—don’t wait for them to become comfortable. Plus, when you choose to try on shoes can also be a deal breaker. That’s because your feet are actually different sizes throughout the day. Because of this, it’s best to wait until the end of the day, when your feet are their largest. And while it may not sound especially fun to go shoe shopping when you’re sweaty, it’s
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even better if you can try on athletic shoes post-workout, so you know how they’ll fit when your feet are swollen. Find your fit. • Buy a shoe one-half inch longer than your longest toe. “This could be as much as 1-1.5 sizes larger than your normal size,” explains Delgado. • The forefoot should not be crowded. Be sure your toes can extend by wiggling them around. “That means you should be able to lift them up, and spread them out,” says Delgado. “Ditch any shoe that forces your toes to stay together.” • Be sure there’s a snug fit around the heel of the shoe. “Remember, sometimes simply lacing the shoe differently can correct this,” notes Delgado. • Your feet expand when bearing weight, so stand when your feet are measured. “Even better, do a few of the exercises you’ll be using the shoes for, whether that is running, jumping, or squatting, to check how they fit while you move,” emphasizes Delgado. • In many people, 1 foot is larger
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than the other. Shoes should be fitted to your longer and wider foot. Although the toe box should be roomy, too much space can make your feet slide. This causes blisters. Heel to Toe: Keeping You On The Go While it can be slightly overwhelming to pick out the perfect pair of athletic shoes, not to mention
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find your perfect exercise routine, the experts at GMC’s Fitness & Performance Center can help. From answering common questions and helping you to overcome exercise obstacles to treating common injuries and helping you reach your fitness goals, you can count on GMC’s Sports Medicine Program. Learn more by visiting gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/sports.
July 2019
July 2019
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Ticket to Work program helps those with long-term disability re-enter the workforce By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com
Carrie Stephens and Arwen Garland
Emmett Clower Studio (770) 972-9211
2389 Scenic Hwy., South • Snellville
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Julie Chapman loved her job as a fourth-grade teacher. She’d been teaching elementary school for more than 20 years, but in late 2017, she realized her role was in jeopardy. That December, Chapman was diagnosed with cancer. It was her second time battling the disease, and she already knew what she’d be facing in the upcoming months. Between the chemo and radiation treatments, the doctor appointments and “everything that goes with being sick,” she’d have to give up teaching, indefinitely. “Chemo is just a beast in and of itself, but for me, as an elementary school teacher, I just don’t have the stamina,” Chapman said. “Plus, it wipes out your white blood cell count which can compromise your immune system, and a school is one of the top places for spreading germs. Going back to work would be like working in a dish of germs.” The first time she battled cancer, Chapman attempted to go back to work after completing a combination of radiation and chemotherapies. Only a few days after returning to work, Chapman got strep throat and realized because of her immune system, it was impossible to keep working. “I was trying so hard to continue to get paid as much as I could, and that just did not work,” Chapman recalled. The second time around, she knew better. In 2017, the cancer came back in her lungs, and Chapman was approved for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) when it was clear she would not be able to work for more than 12 months. Even though she had paid for the disability insurance through her FICA payroll taxes, Chapman was hesitant to accept the financial assistance SSDI provided, but knowing she couldn’t work and there was no other choice. Then, Allsup called. As an authorized employment network that partners with Social Security Administration (SSA), they would act as her personal representative in communicating with the SSA. And if she was up for it, they would include her in the SSA Ticket-to-Work program so she could start easing her way back into the workforce. Senior Vice President Mary Dale Walters explained how the private company works. “There are two companies under Allsup. One is a disability representation organization that help those eligible obtain their Social Security benefits. For those who get their SSDI benefits, we can help them with the option of trying to work again through the Ticket to Work program. About 52 percent of our clients want to go back to work,” said Walters. Allsup turned out to be a game-changer for Chapman. She was concerned that if she started working part-time, she would be cut off from SSDI. But they assured her that for a set period of time she would be able to
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Julie Chapman and her husband Mitch.
continue receiving financial benefits as she eased back into the workplace. Like Chapman, most of Allsup’s clients have physical setbacks. Many are injured while working in highly physical roles such as a firefighter or a plumber. Others battle a progressive disease that finally affects their ability to continue working. In many cases, these clients may never have the strength to return to their previous position, and Allsup aids by assessing the individuals’ skillsets, helping them prepare for a job search and helping place them in a field where their skills can make a difference. “In our model, we manage aspirational statements to help people establish tangible goals,” Walters explained Allsup’s return to work process. “Many of us tend to think of ourselves as a certain job. That’s our identity. But often, we have skills that can be transferred to other types of work”. Giving an example, she continued, “So, you think of a nurse with 35-plus years of experience. They understand the challenges patients have, treatment plans and medical records. They may make excellent case managers who can work via telephone for an insurance company. That’s a position where they don’t have to be on their feet as much and is less physically demanding.” Getting back to the classroom remains Chapman’s end goal. Throughout her career, she’s worked at two schools and hopes to pick up where she left off at an elementary school in Hall County. “This year, I was hired as a parttime para-pro and next year they have a position for me to go back to parttime teaching,” Chapman said. “And then, hopefully a year after that, I’ll be back to full-time teaching.” With Allsup’s assistance, that goal is becoming tangible. Chapman admits the company has relieved a huge stress by dealing with Social Security so she can focus on her health. “You know when you’re going through all of this — the paperwork, the doctor visits, the treatments — it’s just all pretty overwhelming. And, oh my gosh! I have to deal with Social Security and with all the paperwork that goes with that, but Allsup prepared all of it,” Chapman said. “It’s been great.
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Julie Chapman and her student Elise Hutchinson with a sign the students made after she returned from chemo.
Allsup does all the legwork in order to communicate with Social Security, so you do get back some financial assistance.” Only a few months ago, Social Security called Chapman saying she needed to turn in paperwork by the next day or her SSDI benefits would be cut off. “It sounded like a scam, but she had my case number, and she left her name. Allsup took it from there, and, I tell you what, in 24 hours, they had that resolved. They had sent the paperwork over and they had the paperwork to fix it. And that was tremendous for me.” Life has by no means gotten easy for Chapman. Even working part-time and receiving SSDI, her income is much less than what it was when she was a full-time teacher. But she now has hope that her life will return to some state of normalcy. “Above all, I want to be very honest about where I am with my disability . . . because the second time going through the surgeries and the chemo took a lot out of me. And at 56-yearsold, I don’t know if I’ll ever be totally normal again with my stamina.” To others who face debilitating injuries and disabilities, Chapman has a few words of advice. “Keep the faith,” Chapman said. “And if you have the ability to work with Allsup, I cannot put into words the emotional support that I got from them. My husband and I both had so much running through our heads . . . and they took the burden of working with Social Security to make sure I could get my disability benefits through them. They were fabulous about taking that burden off of me, and they took care of everything that had to be done. So, I would highly encourage anybody that could use Allsup to use them.” Allsup is a specialized disability service with representatives who are trained to work with those seeking disability benefits from the Social Security Administration (SSA). Allsup has been in business for over 35 years and has helped over 325,000 individuals receive the Social Security disability benefits they deserve. To learn more, visit https://www.truehelp.com.
July 2019
How to Be happy!
Artis-Hood now a Dr. By Staff Reports
• Do what you can with what you have where you are. Everyone is doing the best with the circumstances they have been given • Overthinking is the biggest cause of unhappiness.
Happiness
• The happiness of your life depends on the quality of your thoughts • Happiness isn’t having what you want; it is wanting what you have.
is having what you want and wanting what you have ~Josh Bullings
• Stop letting “It” bother you, just let it go. • Don’t let negative and toxic people rent space in your head. Raise the rent to kick them out. • Letting toxic people go is not an act of cruelty. It’s an act of selfcare • Walk yourself out of a bad mood. Even 10 minutes immediately increases brain chemistry to increase happiness. • No one ever injured their eyesight by looking on the bright side.
Happiness Hacks! • Wake up early and make your bed every day.
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• Ignore nonsense. • Talk Less. • Learn New Skills. • Help Less Fortunate. • Watch funny movies. Laugh- It is a great internal belly massage. • Yawn, it releases cortisol (stress hormone).
• Look at pictures and videos of babies and puppies. It increases Oxytocin (relaxation/love hormone). For more information about Dogwood Forest of Grayson and our pet friendly atmosphere call 678496-2319 www.dogwoodforest.com/ Grayson
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Sharie Artis-Hood was awarded the Doctor of Pharmacy degree May 22, 2019, from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine-Georgia (PCOM-GA) School of Medicine in Suwanee, Ga. Dr. Artis-Hood is a 2004 graduate of Shiloh High School where she excelled both in the classroom and in the band. Upon graduation from Shiloh, she was awarded the Hope scholarship where she attended Valdosta State University (VSU). Sharie attended VSU 20042009 she enrolled in the Pre-Pharmacy program and then changed her major and earned an academic degree in Chemistr y. She entered the workforce after graduation. As a prelude to achieving her PharmD, she worked for 4 years with Grady Memorial Hospital as a Pham-Tech, as well as working as an Adjunct Instructor teaching Pharmacology/ Lab classes for Atlanta Technical College. In May 2015, Sharie was wedded to her high school
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Sharie Artis-Hood.
sweetheart Andrew Hood and got accept to PCOM in June of 2015. Dr. Artis-Hood has acquired a broad range of clinical experiences in areas such as internal medicine, critical care, infectious diseases, ambulator y care and other clinical pharmacies practices both locally and externally. Sharie is the daughter of John and Gladys Artis of Snellville.
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I love your accent.
Marlene Ratledge Buchanan Hey Y’all
What accent? ME? No, you have the accent. Have you ever noticed that those of us from here—the southern part of the United States—are often told by strangers that they love our accent? When I worked as a high school
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counselor I registered a lot of children from many places. Almost all of them told me they loved my accent. Y’all, if we are from here, we DON’T have an accent. They do. They are from off somewhere else. Granted the way we speak in North Georgia is different from South Georgia. The Atlanta metropolitan area is rapidly losing that pronounced southern drawl because of all the newcomers. Listen to the speed of our language. The closer to Atlanta, the faster it is. Go down to the most southern areas and there is still a drawl. Of course, now you have to find someone who is actually born and raised in those territories. I blame air conditioning for all the new transplants. In some places they think “Y’all” is an abomination and make fun of us.
Y’all is a much more gentle way of say “Youse guys.” “HI” is a harder form of “Hey”. Doesn’t “Hey Y’all” sound a lot nicer greeting than “Hi, Youse guys?” Personally I prefer the slower, softened approach. It just sounds more gracious. Mama was from Eastman, Georgia. That is in the hotter part of the state in South Georgia. You may notice that the hotter the territory the slower home grown folks speak. Sometimes we drop letters like g. It is hot. It takes effort to talk and it can be the drawl was drawn out so long that the softer letters at the end of word just fell off. Daddy’s mother was from Rome, Georgia. His daddy grew up in Atlanta. They were born in the late 1880 and early 1990. There wasn’t as much migration from other parts of the
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United States to Georgia. Their language patterns were still pure from their birth zone. Daddy grew up in Atlanta. I was born and raised in Atlanta with a blend of southern drawl and a crisper Atlanta speech pattern. I am a blend of the two, with a little more southern honey poured on top. I owe that honey to Rosa Cofield. Rosie helped raise me. She was the most delightful person. She was originally from the coastal South Carolina area. She met her husband Oliver during World War II and moved to Atlanta after he was released from service. He was shot to hell and back. He came home and Rosie saved him physically and emotionally. She nursed and raised him back to a more healthy man. So I am a little bit Coastal South Carolina, a lot Atlanta, but mostly South Georgia. Now, that is not an accent. That is from being brought up in
the South. Think about the influences on your speech and the words you choose. If Rosie could say something in three words she used seven. I find that I do that, too. Concise is a word I am going do one day. But it is going to take me some time to get there. So what’s your blend? Think about it. Who do you sound the most like? Are you a blend or are you more one parent than another? Does your cousin who was reared somewhere else sound like you or one of your parents? The next time someone tells you they love your accent, just smile. They are from off somewhere else and they don’t know. We’re from here. We have no accent. They do. Just welcome them in your most gracious southern manner and let them know they are as close heaven as they are going get for a while. We hope. Bye, y’all.
July 2019
Happy New Year to Rotary Club of Lawrenceville
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Leigh McIntosh
Lawrenceville Rotary
Many not-for-profits begin their new year on July 1 and Rotary is no exception. Rotary Club of Lawrenceville celebrated an end of the year party at David and Nina Freeman’s home and are very appreciative of their hospitality. Our President, Craig Roberts, passed the torch to incoming President, Timothy Golden, who has been busily working with members to fill positions in the club. As President this past year, Craig Roberts instituted some new initiatives. Our club gave away four scholarships to rising college Freshmen and began a grant process under his leadership. He also oversaw the efforts to get an Interact Club established at Central Gwinnett High School and plans to make that his project for the upcoming year in order to insure it has a strong foundation. Craig’s selfless work helped so many people and helped Rotary Club of Lawrenceville have a successful year. Good job Craig! At a typical Rotary meeting, we have an invocation, say the Pledge of Allegiance and eat lunch. Later, we hear announcements regarding our club, our members, potential members and Rota-
July 2019
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President Craig Roberts giving scholarship check to Angelique.
ry International. We introduce a guest speaker who teaches us about local, state, national or international programs. We close our meetings with the Four Way Test – 1) Is it the truth? 2) Is it fair to all concerned? 3) Will it build goodwill and better friendships? 4) Will it be beneficial to all concerned? Everything about Rotary focuses on the greater good and serving others. This is in direct contrast to the media world that implies success is reserved for individuals with the most money, fame and/or power. On a daily basis, I read stories about “successful” people who have turned to substance abuse and even criminal activities because they cannot find happiness or whatever they are looking for that gives their existence meaning. Yet, when I get to know many Rotarians, they may not be successful from a societal viewpoint, but they are happy because they are making a difference and changing the world. Rather than being self-focused, they are focused on others and lead much more satisfied and joyful lives. The best part is that all of us can be successful this same way.
President Craig Roberts thanking David and Nina Freeman for hosting our end of year party.
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President Craig Roberts passing the torch to upcoming President Timothy Golden.
I encourage each of you to reach out to someone in need. You will be the one to receive the blessing. Leigh is a proud Rotarian and CEO of Creative Enterprises, Inc., a not for profit, training and employment, community rehabilitation program for adults with disabilities. A lifelong resident of Gwinnett County, Leigh divides her time between advocating for people with disabilities, enjoying her children, grandchildren and friends, helping her doTerra essential oil customers, traveling, and focusing on her spiritual journey to appreciate how we are all connected.
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Jonathan Howes
Lead Pastor Graystone Church In life, we all feel like we have been cheated at times. We do not always get what we think we deserve. When this happens, we can suffer from resentment. I think we can all relate to our team being cheated out of winning a game or a championship, because the referee made a bad call or a series of bad calls. Or we pay for a combo meal at the fast food drive thru and get home to find out that our order of fries is missing. We deserve those fries, because we paid for them. There are two types of resentment. The first type of resentment is when we do not get what we think we deserve. The second type of resentment is when someone else receives what we do not think they deserve. Comparing ourselves to others can lead to jealousy, bitterness, anger and all kinds of negative emotions that steal our peace and happiness. In the gospel of Matthew Jesus tells a very interesting story. He tells the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16). Jesus begins most of his parables in the book of Matthew with
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the phrase, “The kingdom of Heaven is like…” Jesus teaches us about God and His kingdom through telling stories. In this parable, the landowner represents God, the workers are believers, and the vineyard is the kingdom of Heaven. I will summarize the story and put it in today’s language to help you better understand. The landowner goes out early in the morning and hires workers to work in his vineyard for the day. He promises to pay them $100. They agree and begin working around 6:00AM. Then the landowner hires another set of workers at 9:00AM to work for the rest of the day promising them a fair wage. Then he hires three more sets of workers at 12:00PM, 3:00PM and 5:00PM. At the end of the workday (6:00PM), the landowner pays his workers beginning with the last ones hired. He gave $100 to the workers who only worked for one hour. Wow! This is incredibly generous. The workers who worked all day began to get excited thinking they will make more money. But the landowner pays all the workers the same amount of money, $100. The workers hired first grumble and complain, because they do not think it is fair. But the landowner said, “I paid you the amount we agreed upon. It’s my money, and I can spend it how I chose. Why are you envious, because I am generous?” It’s a fascinating story which has many spiritual and eternal implications. I think it’s interesting that the workers who were hired first only thought $100 was unfair, because they compared their amount of work with the other workers. They received the wage that was promised to them, but they resented the other workers, because they worked harder and longer than them. I believe compar-
ing ourselves to others in one of the biggest challenges in our culture. We are constantly comparing ourselves to others. We think, “How do we measure up? How good is my life compared to someone else?” And social media multiples the problem, because everyone post pictures of their “great lives” on Facebook and Instagram. When God is good to us, we are blessed, #blessed. When God is good to someone else, we say, “Why them? They do not deserve it. We have worked harder than them. We have better morals than them. We pray more than they do. They don’t deserve it.” Jealousy steals our joy and destroys relationships with friends, family and coworkers. When God blesses someone else, if we truly love and care for them, we would celebrate with them. “Wow! God has blessed you with a raise, a new house, a nice vacation, etc. PRAISE GOD! I am so happy for you.” As we see in the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), God rejects our comparisons. God showers us with His amazing grace, and His grace supersedes fairness. God does not give us what we deserve. He gives us way more than we deserve. Instead of comparing ourselves with others, let’s celebrate and be grateful for all of God’s blessings in our lives. Jonathan Howes has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance from Jacksonville State University and a Master in Divinity Degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the lead pastor for Graystone Church - 1551 Ozora Road Loganville, GA 30052. Phone: (770) 466-3159 Website: GraystoneChurch.com
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How To Shop For Homeowners Insurance
678-691-3438 Tracey L. Wells
Your Local Farmers Agent 2402 Loganville Hwy, Ste 300 Grayson, GA 30017 twells@farmersagent.com Most people simply select a policy for homeowner’s insurance quickly when they are in the process of buying a home. With everything else that is going on at the time, homeowner’s insurance seems like just one more thing to sign off on and move on. Plenty of errors can slip through the cracks if you don’t take your time when shopping for homeowner’s insurance. A Trusted Agent A lot of people simply allow the real estate agent or mortgage broker to handle finding the insurance
policy. Usually they do know some good people, but do you really want someone you have never even spoken to insuring your biggest investment? If you already have an insurance agent for your auto coverage, give them a call and find out if they can quote your homeowner’s insurance. Look At The Replacement Cost Calculations No, it’s not going to be what you paid for the house or even what it’s worth. The replacement cost is simply how much it would cost to rebuild your home from the ground up. And an accurate replacement cost calculation depends on accurate information about your home. Cover Your Property Be sure there is enough coverage for everything you own, including high value items like jewelry. This is something that is often overlooked when shopping for homeowner’s insurance because the focus is on the house and not the things inside it. Accuracy is the key to a homeowner’s policy that covers everything you own properly, along with valuing your house appropriately. If you ever have a claim, you will be glad you did.
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Stop Comparing Yourself to Others
July 2019
Snellville business owner launches book on finding passion and strategy for entrepreneurs By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com In her soon-to-be-released book, Passion and Strategy go Hand in Hand, Aysha Treadwell goes by her maiden name in inviting readers to share her experience and hardearned lessons as a business owner of ten years while revealing how to run a successful enterprise with love. The book’s rhythm follows a quick and steady flow, tracing Treadwell’s journey as an entrepreneur from her first money-making pursuits and culminating to reveal how she was able to expand an award-winning adult day center that provides a much-needed service to the community. Growing up in Indianapolis, Treadwell never imagined her life would follow the path she is on today. As the founder and owner of an established adult day center and having worked as a business consultant at the University of Georgia, Treadwell is a firm believer that entrepreneurs should not “reinvent the wheel” but rather build strategies based on tried and true processes and by learning from the example of others. Treadwell offers her story as both a guide and a trajectory for other business owners to utilize for their own growth strategies. Her hope is that readers will apply what has worked for her, learn from her pitfalls, and then work to find their own strategies. In each chapter her advice grows more specific to drive home her key points. Throughout the pages, Treadwell shares how she learned to select the right team and manage it, as well as tips on creating multiple revenue streams, exit strategy advice, and she even shares insight on failing which can be summarized in the line “fail fast” and rebound faster. Passion and Strategy go Hand in Hand is a heartfelt narrative, juxtaposed with strategy and practical tips through which Treadwell ultimately challenges her audience to revisit their “WHY”, the reason they got started in the first place. Gwinnett Citizen interview with Author Aysha Treadwell: GC: You stay pretty busy as a business owner, a consultant and a mother. What inspired you to write the book? AT: “I’d been thinking about writing it since 2015. I’d been faced with so many challenges and I was like, ‘I know didn’t go through all this not to share it with other business owners.’ So, I started thinking about the book after I completed by MBA and expanded the center after buying the building. And I was like, ‘Okay. We’re going to survive this thing.’ At that point I was in the busi-
July 2019
my first taste at business.”
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Asha Treadwell is releasing her new book Passion and Strategy go Hand in Hand, wherein she invites readers to learn from her experience and hardearned lessons as an entrepreneur and long-time business owner in Snellville.
ness for five years, and I had been through more than most, or I guess, more than I thought was normal or would have anticipated.” GC: If there was one moment that summed up your journey as an entrepreneur, what would that be? AT: “If I could choose one moment that really stands out, it would be when I purchased my building and expanded. I guess I had, you know, learned what to expect at that point.” GC: Your book offers a wealth of practical advice for entrepreneurs and business owners. The sections about creating an ‘exit strategy’ are particularly interesting. What is this and why do you think this is important for entrepreneurs to understand? AT: “It’s about asking the question, ‘Where are you now and where do you want to be?’ A lot of entrepreneurs, when building a business, assume that their children will take over. That’s not always the case [so you need to plan for the alternative]. I think I was first introduced to the concept at SBDC 2011 Growth Smart. And there, I learned that the first thing you want to do to pass on your business is scale it and grow it. Documenting your systems and where you want to go will help you strategize to work on your business, not in it.” GC: In your book, you trace your first experiences as an entrepreneur back to your childhood when you sold candy for a local store. Can you tell me a little about that? AT: “Yes. (Laughs) Growing up in Indiana, we had these neighborhood candy stores. As a kid, I would go there and buy blow pops, and the owner said, ‘Why don’t you sell these at school and bring me back a portion?’ The candy was cheaper if I did it that way, so that’s kind of how I got
GC: It seems you were, in a way, wired to be an entrepreneur. Do you believe that most business owners are born to be entrepreneurs? AT: “You have to be a certain kind of individual. You have to be wired with risk-taking abilities, wanting to do it all yourself in the beginning. You have to be able to entrench yourself in your dream. So, I do think you have to be born with certain qualities that make you want to take those risks.” GC: You tried a variety of different business endeavors before starting McKinley Community Care. When you found the senior care industry, did you feel like you had finally found your calling?” AT: “Like I say in the book, it kind of found me. Through unique situations, it was presented to me, and out of love for our senior community, I decided I was going to be the one to show what senior care with heart looks like.” GC: In one chapter, you describe the team-building and hiring process. After all these years, do you consider yourself an expert? AT: “I know how to identify which people are better for certain jobs. People can sell themselves as one role or another, but we do have staff conduct meetings where I explain our expectations. I won’t hold it against someone personally for not being able to meet those expectations, but I have zero tolerance for anything less. And I always understand if someone wants to spread their wings and fly.”
GC: What are the most important lessons for creating a sustainable business? AT: “No fear. Fail fast in some areas, and if they are not going to work, nip it! Do it with ease and love. I like the pace I’m at now. The pace of your life has to be with ease and love.” GC: How long did it take you to write the book? AT:“I started in January with a different focus, but then I went back and completely rewrote it to have a different focus. So, it was really two months to write this version.” GC: Was the writing process ever emotionally difficult? Were you glad to finish? AT: “The easy part was writing about the business, and the hardest was writing about myself. But I carved out time every night. And when I was done, I was like, ‘Yay. I have this time back again!’ I only finished the final draft today.”
AT: “Yes. I’d like to write stories about our senior citizens and caretakers and what they go through. I see these couples come in and it’s amazing to watch all the love they have and the love that they’re losing. One thing I’ve really learned from the senior care industry is what real love looks like.” The Passion and Strategy go Hand in Hand book launch will be held July 26, 2019 from 6:30 to 11 p.m. The event will take place at The Vines Mansion located at 3500 Oak Grove Road SW, Loganville, Ga. 30052. Entry is free, and the charge for a signed book copy is $15. Treadwell invites the entire community to come celebrate and bring their enthusiasm for business as she shares hers with family, friends, neighbors and supporters. She welcomes anyone everyone interested in expanding their business. RSVP for the event here: https:// ayshatreadwellbooklaunchevent. eventbrite.com.
GC: What do you believe business owners will find most helpful in reading your book? AT: “First, I want to help them resonate with their WHY and implement strategies to help them reach wherever they want to go. GC: Do you plan on writing more books?
GC: It seems you’re a glasshalf-full kind of person. Do you think that’s an important trait for business owners? AT: “Very much so. If you’re going to sit there and think of all the things you’re doing wrong, how are you going to focus on the necessary pieces to reach your dream?” GC: In another part of your book, you talk about finding a work/life balance to spend time on yourself and with your family. How did you find that balance? AT: “There were several things that helped with that. After finishing my MBA, I got 20 hours back in my week, so rather than going and working those 20 hours, I asked myself, ‘How can I take that time for me and my family?’ So, I started taking golf lessons. You have to know how to prioritize. You have to give yourself time to pause. A lot of people won’t make that time, but I think it’s critical for your longevity.”
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Aysha Treadwell is launching her first book on July 26, 2019.
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MAMA continued from page 1 nyers with Crawford and Jean Juhan. When they reached the base of the mountain (the highway went right past Stone Mountain then), they were discussing maybe going into Atlanta instead. No one could make up their minds. So daddy said, “Hell, let’s just go get married!� AND THEY DID!! Yes, she was wearing her square dancing dress. Well, of course, things only got better from there. They lived in a small 2 bedroom house with Leon and Ernestine Phillips. This is where they brought Jan Lorraine Snell
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home to... she was born February 8, 1950. Then, still living in the same house (which was located where Bruster’s sits now), they brought baby Permelia (Pam) Olivia Snell home. She was born on March 22, 1951. Daddy bought some land, 34 + acres and built a little brick house.... just in time to bring Hugh Fredrick Snell Jr. home. That was July 11, 1952, baby #3. A Snellville official came by the house and told mama what they had thought of naming this little road.... she said, “No, I don’t like that name.�
So he asked her what ‘she’ would like to call it... Wisteria Drive, she said. She had just planted a wisteria bush. Ta-Da!! It wasn’t too long before they were expecting another baby, Gladston Cecil Snell, born on December 16, 1955. So with that, daddy asked our Grannie to come to live with them and help out. Lillion Olivia Wilson Harris, 1901-1975. Thirteen months later on January 3, 1957, Bill Russell Snell joined the clan. Cozy little family, right? Brick house, 5 kids, cows in the pasture, Grannie in the kitchen... nope!! Not crazy enough, because on January 8, 1964, I was born! (they saved the best for last, lol). Daddy had added on to the house after my arrival and then, built our pool. The very first swimming pool in Snellville, kinda cool. đ&#x;˜Š Now the family is complete... So as the older kids started school, it wasn’t long before they were in 4-H. Mother was a 4-H leader for 20 + years, all the way through until I started going to Rock Eagle myself. I think she ‘retired’ in 1979 or 1980. She also volunteered at the Gwinnett County Livestock & Fair Association, while daddy was vice president and then president, for many years until his passing on November 30, 1997. She continued helping out in the office until her move to Good Hope. Mother never had a problem with the fact that our house was where all our friends seemed to ‘hang out’. If you were hungry, you ate, if you
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Photo by Emmett Clower
Back Row: Davis Tyre, Arley Snell Moser, Chad Moser, Morgan Houston, George Houston, Don Moon, Pam Snell Moon, Gladston Snell, Beth Snell, Sandra Cruce, Hugh Snell Jr., Christie Moon Tyre, Avery Moon, John “Fluff� Tyre, Jennifer Moon, Chad Moon & Chris Few. Middle Row: Makenzie Tyre, Drew Snell, Brook Snell, Jan Snell Houston, Doris H. Snell, Mandy Snell, Arica Snell & Grey Snell. Seated Front Row: Madison Moser, Cyril Moser, Lily Cash Few, Jack Snell, James Snell, Alyn Moon & Olivia Blakemon.
spent the night, you helped with chores.... and if you were bad AND got caught, well you can figure out that ending. Ha. She loved our daddy with her whole heart and he as well. I’m pretty sure he was the one who spoiled her. Mama loves to travel, and would probably get into a car right now just to take a ride. She has been to many countries and all over the United States. She’s is hopeful that she will get back up to Alaska to visit Little Hugh on his beautiful piece of that state. I love seeing the pictures of her daddy’s trips, but mostly listening to the stories that go along with them. Doris Lorraine Harris Snell was born on July 8, 1929!! Yep, she is 90 years old! She was born on 2nd Avenue in South Decatur at her Granny Wilson’s house. She had one brother Russell Ward Harris, who was 10 years older than her. Mama lived a very moderate, but comfortable childhood. She talks about Grannie working at the WPA during the war and then at Dunnally
Mccrary’s making men’s overalls. The ice cream was a nickel and so was the bus fare. Mama was a “stay at home mom� because daddy wanted it that way. However, when Jean Snell and Helen Todd opened “J-Len’s�, she had to be a part of that. She worked part-time for a short time. Our mother is very smart and always knew the answers to our homework questions. She is still sharp as a tack at 90 and as Pam puts it, a true Southern Smartass! So now y’all know where we all got it from! To us, she is our mother, mama, Mama Doris, Grandmother Doris, and Darcy. However, she is so much more than the names we call her. She is our rock, our hub, our friend, our brightest star in the sky and ALL of our biggest CHEERLEADER!! We love her more than she will EVER know and to have celebrated her 90th birthday.... well that’s just a blessing for everyone. She’s a Sass, but she’s our Sass.... we love you Mother!!
July 2019
Stephanie Walden “Slays the Day” as an Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant, Small Business Owner By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com Working with an Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant like Stephanie Walden can save time and get the best quality products at a fraction of the cost for those trying to find the right beauty and skin care regime. But she doesn’t expect anyone to take her word for it. “Test before you invest and try before you buy,” Walden often says to her potential customers. “I would hate to think that any of our wonderful products would end up in a woman’s graveyard of unused cosmetics lying around in her drawers for years. If you aren’t 100 percent satisfied with your Mary Kay Products, let me know, and I’ll happily refund you, no questions asked.” Rarely does that happen because everyone gets to try the product first, according to Walden. “Most everyone loves our products; they’re so rich and light. We’re just as good as a fine department store, but the difference is it’s affordable, and you have a personal consultant that knows your name, skin type, and facial habits. Mary Kay offers fine department store-quality products at a price affordable to everyone. I have products for all genders and age brackets, from preteen to seniors, male or female, including those who are in transition. I help everyone!”
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Working with an Independent Mary Kay Beauty Consultant like Stephanie Walden can save time and get the best quality products at a fraction of the cost for those trying to find the right beauty and skin care regime.
With Mary Kay, there is also the added bonus of having a personal beauty consultant. “The benefit of having a personal beauty consultant is building that one-on-one face-to-face relationship where I know your likes and dislikes. I can help you avoid the department store hodgepodge where someone will sell you something that doesn’t actually suit you and will end up in your makeup graveyard in your vanity. Everything is face to face and customized. On top of that, we are professionally trained at what we do.” Walden offers consultations out of her newly renovated home store in Grayson. She strives to give clients
the royal treatment as they test various products from her trove of facial care products, masks, lotions, and potions. Clients interested in Mary Kay’s skincare line or glamor line of eyeshadow pallets and lip sets and more can receive a full-face makeover. “My Mary Kay life is really about taking a stand to support women, first and foremost. A lot of people think we’re just about the glitz and the glamor, but we’re really more than that.” Established in 1963, the Mary Kay corporation seeks to empower women and families around the world, and for Stephanie Walden, that boils down to relationship-building. “It’s more than skincare and glamor. Investing in a Mary Kay consultant is supporting a small business. I give back to my community by making donations to senior care centers, and we raise money for breast cancer. We also adopt a grandparent at Christmas time. We are always looking to build new relationships and give back to the community.” Walden invites Gwinnett locals and those in neighboring counties to enter to win a free workshop for four or more by texting the word “FREEGC” to her cell: (770)235-6036. “Come over, and we’ll play with the products. Bring your girlfriends, and we’ll have a party!” Walden said.
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What happened to customer service?
Bill York
Nonagenarian While training employees at Sears Roebuck I recall the instruction manual. When there’s a complaint employees are told to apologize first, determine the problem and satisfy the customer’s complaint. At York Furs a client justifiably complained about a restyle I did on her mother’s old fur coat. I quickly returned her money then suggested I make pillows and hats so she could be near her mother’s favorite mink, and at no cost. After three strokes I gave my Ithaca 20 gauge shotgun to a son. I bought it in 1953. With abundant wildlife on the farm we rarely had to
July 2019
go to the meat market. To provide my son and his wife with a training session I could not recall some vital facts about the gun so I called a nearby sporting company and asked for the gun department. For several minutes I heard a voice telling me what a superb company it is, and how many charities in which they are involved. Every few minutes a voice informed me that someone would be with me shortly. Impatiently after too many rings I hung up and called another of that store only to be annoyed by the same promotional pitch. The experience reminded me of trying to get the price on a lawnmower from a major retailer. I was told often that someone would be with me shortly. I was curious as to how long the connection would take and since I’m retired I have some available time to be a complete nuisance. After many un-answered rings to their mower department, interrupted by a voice saying someone would be with me shortly I erupted with some incendiary naval vernacular and considered buying some cows and goats.
Instead I called their main competitor only to discover that they also had no employees to answer an inquiry by a person ready to buy a lawn mower. Hoping to accomplish my objectives I telephoned another store, and asked for their gun department. A man answered on the second ring. I asked him how many shells I could load in an Ithaca model 37 20 gauge pump gun. “We don’t sell the Ithaca but the Browning is about the same,” the man said. “It holds one shell in the chamber and four in the breech.” What a difference employee training makes. With the most professional customer service program in retail I can’t understand why Sears is closing so many stores. If I still had my fur shop I would try to hire the guy. He’d be a super mink salesman. Bill is a 93-year old WW II Navy veteran and retired President of York Furs in Buckhead. You can contact him by email at Sioux2222@gmail.com
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VAPING continued from page 1 that very reason.
“Our purpose is to educate and prevent future use of E-cigarettes amongst teenagers and adolescents,” Juan said. To get started, the boys connected with Dr. Ellis from Tennessee and Dr. Halpern-Felsher, the creator of the Stanford Tobacco Prevention Toolkit which provides a wealth of information and research on tobacco, E-cigarettes and other addictive behaviors. From there, they were able to address one of their first goals – education. Utilizing their research, the boys have designed both middle school and high school curriculum with PowerPoint slides about vaping, its harmful effects as well as prevention strategies. They hope the curriculum will be integrated into health classes in both middle schools and high schools. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and the boys know that the best strategy is to start small at their own high school. With the help of their teacher sponsor, Mr. Gillis, they’re working on getting a club formalized for fall 2019 to attract more students to become VATP ambassadors and start hosting school-wide meetings. “We think teens are more likely to listen to other teens than if it were an adult telling them not to vape,” said Marco who is fully invested in training their growing ranks of student ambassadors. Kids from their soccer team were among the first to join the club. Other ambassadors got involved online connecting from other states through social media, and they now have a total of five student ambassadors.
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Each of these youth ambassadors will be required to complete a “Train the Trainer” Toolkit which condenses their curriculum into four engaging modules for ambassadors to pick one every nine weeks and create their own marketing campaign to make vaping “not cool.” The program should be ready by fall 2019. Consulting with their mom, Justine Henao, who is a physician at a local hospital, the boys realized it’s important to also educate parents and teachers. As Dr. Henao points out, “Some don’t even know what these things look like.” E-cigarettes are battery-run, smoking devices operated by heat and use a liquid called “e-juice” to create their distinctive vapor. The devices are particularly convenient for teenagers to use because they are produced to look like common objects including USB’s, pens and sharpeners. “A lot of our friends vape. Some kids do it in the bathroom, and it doesn’t leave a smell like cigarettes do. Some kids even do it in the back of the classroom because they have vapes that hardly put out any smoke,” Marco said. To educate youth, parents and anyone interested in learning more about what vaping does to the human and teen body, Juan and Marco are now planning the first VATP town hall to take place sometime this summer. The meeting will be hosted alongside Truth Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring individuals to live tobacco-free lives. At their initial meeting, Juan and Marco proposed several partnership opportunities with Truth. Vincent Irving, who works for the nonprofit, was
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E-cigarettes or “vapes” are battery-run smoking devices that use “e-juice”, which often contains nicotine, to create their distinctive plumes of smoke.
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Marco and Juan working with mealworms for their upcoming Science Fair where they will test the effects of “e-juice”, the liquid used in E-cigarettes.
highly impressed with the boys’ initiative. “It takes teens like Marco and Juan to notice issues, learn about the impact those issues are having, and then gather resources, to create positive generational change. The fact that they have taken the initiative to mobilize teens across the country around this issue is extremely motivating.” The Borrego twins are optimistic about the possibilities the new partnership could bring. They hope Truth can provide additional training for their ambassadors in becoming public spokespersons. As fifteen-year-old sophomores, Juan and Marco aren’t sure where all this will lead them. They’ve loaded their schedule with AP courses and study vigilantly, hoping to be accepted into an Ivy League college after they
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graduate. What they will study and do for their careers thereafter remains a mystery. For now, their goal is to ensure VATP takes root. And one day in the not too distant future, they hope to see legislation passed that will deter teens from picking up the habit. “We have already met with a few local representatives, and with some coaching, we hope to formally address our local legislators in hopes of raising the age for vaping to 21,” Marco said. Banning flavors is another legislation they hope to see passed. Without a wide variety of sweet flavors like mango and cotton candy, Juan and Marco believe vaping wouldn’t have the same appeal. “A lot of people our age think cigarettes are gross, and there’s been so much education on cigarettes it’s not as cool as it used to be. But E-cigarettes come in all these different flavors — some people just think of it as inhaling flavored vapor that tastes like candy,” Juan said. To the contrary, a 2017 study from Stanford’s School of Medicine showed certain flavors to be toxic. The researchers studied a variety of flavors, finding two flavors in particular —
cinnamon and menthol — decreased the viability of bacteria cells used in their study. The finding suggests that the cinnamon and menthol flavors can cause DNA damage and are carcinogens, even in the absence of nicotine. To build the case, the boys plan to do their own research. They are working on a Science Fair project to test the effects of e-juice on meal worms for the upcoming school year. Through the project, they hope to shed light on the effects vaping has on human cells. As a health professional, Dr. Henao is particularly curious about the long-term effects of vaping and how it remains largely undocumented and enshrouded in myth. She’s proud her sons are working to change that. “I’m glad, but not exactly surprised the boys have gotten so involved with this. I wouldn’t expect anything less because they’re always very motivated and hard working. They always put 110 percent into something,” Dr. Henao said. Research and politics aside, if the Borrego twins can make vaping seem less cool, maybe they have a chance of reversing the trend and preventing younger generations from following the fad altogether. Want to learn more or become a peer ambassador, regardless of the school you go to, you can reach the boys through their website contact page (www.vaping-attentiontoprevention.org) or message them on facebook: @vapingAttentionToPrevention.
July 2019
Chiggers can cause misery Who’s in Charge at Your House? during the summer months
Tim Daly
Gwinnett County Extension Agent Many pests can trouble people such as hornets, mosquitoes, and ticks, however, one that is often overlooked are chiggers. Their bites cause intense itching and being small in size, often people who encounter these organisms are not aware of their presence. If you have never experienced chigger bites consider yourself lucky. Chiggers go by many names. In some areas of the country, they are known as “Red Bugs.” They are several related species of mites, which are arachnids like spiders, ticks and scorpions, not insects. They have eight legs. The tiny adult mite spends the winter near the soil in sheltered areas. In early spring they lay eggs, which hatch into the small parasitic larval form. This life stage of chiggers is the only point in their life cycle where they feed on humans and animals. The small orange to red larva crawls around on the soil surface until a host is found. In addition to humans, they feed on small mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Chiggers prefer to attach themselves to areas of the human body where clothing fits tightly, or the skin is thin. That makes ankles, waistlines, knees, and armpits favorite feeding locations. Contrary to what you may have heard, the tiny chiggers do not burrow into the skin. Instead, they suck fluids from the host, where they inject a digestive enzyme that liquefies the tissue of the host, which causes an allergic response so that it is quickly sucked up by
July 2019
the chigger. If not disturbed, the chigger will finish feeding within three to four days and will drop from the host. Itching from chigger bites usually starts within four to six hours. Frequently the chigger is scratched away before it finishes feeding, but the itching sensation will continue until the body neutralizes the digestive enzyme and repairs the damaged tissue, which could take as long as two weeks in some individuals. Scratching a chigger bite, of course, can also lead to secondary infections of the wound. Chiggers are most often found in low lying damp areas that have lots of vegetation such as small shrubs, and small trees, and including blackberry thickets, which seem especially attractive to them. One of the easiest methods of reducing chigger infestations is to clear brush and mow the area carefully to eliminates the protective cover and moisture they need to survive. Chemicals can also be used for chigger control. Products that contain bifenthrin, Cyfluthrin, Deltamethrin, Permethrin, and others can be helpful. Always be sure to read and follow all label directions when using any pesticide to control chiggers. Repellents that contain the chemical DEET may be used on clothes when venturing into chigger-infested areas. After visiting a likely chigger habitat, be sure to take a thorough shower. A warm shower with plenty of scrubbing will dislodge many chiggers before they have a chance to feed. Check with your pharmacist for over-the-counter products that will help relieve itching. Don’t fall victim to these tiny terrors this year. To reduce the chances you will encounter chiggers, control vegetation to eliminate their habitat and apply insect repellents. Thus, these tactics will reduce the likelihood you will suffer from their bites. Timothy Daly is an Agricultural and Natural Resource Extension Agent with UGA Extension Gwinnett. He can be contacted at 678-377-4011or tdaly@uga.edu.
As a parent, are you sometimes afraid you will make your children angry with you if you discipline them and/or require responsible, respectful behaviors? Are you worried you may cause them emotional harm if you hold them to your expectations and require certain behaviors? Do any of your children refuse to do homework, study for tests, attend after school tutorial sessions, and/or earn grades lower than his or her abilities? Have your children taken charge of your home? If your answers are yes to any of these questions and you want to regain control, please continue reading the following principles to put into practice, which should prove helpful. 1) Practice calm, conscious, confident parenting. 2) Practice the self discipline necessary to remain emotionally balanced in response to your children’s behavior. 3) Change things in small degrees because you can only improve your responses to your children’s behavior a little at a time. 4) Take note of your children’s misbehavior without immediately reacting, unless an immediate real danger exists. 5) Take a good look at your parenting anger and parenting fears because these emotional states indicate there is work you need to do on your own self. 6) Learn how to be firm without being emotional. 7) Communicate your children’s appropriate boundaries by consistently demonstrating respectful, responsible self discipline yourself, clearly communicating exactly the behavior you expect and you disallow, and follow through with consequences when patience and words do not work.
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Carol Wood
Total Learning Concepts
8) Be observant and learn how to talk to your children so they will listen. 9) Do not use harsh, angry criticism towards your children because this does not work. It lowers their expectations of themselves, lowers their self-confidence, and it fuels their fears, rebellion, and defensiveness, all resulting in an even worse behaviors and attitudes. 10) Do not fight with your children. Fighting does not work because when you engage in a frustrating power struggle with them, you will lose your own power and authority. 11) Do not do too much for your children to protect them from life’s challenges. Sometimes children learn more by dealing with events without your help and by you remaining uninvolved. 12) Remember children learn to behave in the ways that get them what they want. If you give them what they desire when they have been bossy and demanding, you have taught them that these traits satisfy their desires and they will disrespect others. 13) Remember that when children’s bad behavior goes without consequences, it causes them to feel confused about what is expected of them and they may
even doubt that they are truly cared about and interpret your leniency as apathy. 14) Develop emotional strength by remaining patient and composed when our children express hurt and angry feelings. You cannot teach your children self control when you are losing your own. Several years ago I heard a minister, Dr. Bill Blanchard, present five important points on parenting. He taught that when parents demonstrate affirmation, acceptance, appreciation, availability, and affection towards their children, it fosters in them a sense of authenticity, security, significance, importance, and lovability, respectively. He also taught that when parents have only rules in their homes and no relationship with their children, this could lead to rebellion. Take charge in your homes as parents, while at the same time developing a relationship with your children. Set an example they can model of responsible, respectful, and accountable behaviors, which will enable them to develop these same positive traits and become more confident and successful as students in the classroom. Your children will then also likely carry these same positive character qualities into their adult lives! Carol Wood is the Founder & CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc. Visit www. totallearningconcepts.com for information about their tutorial and test preparation services. For more information about Total Learning Concepts, Inc., please call 770-381-5958 or visit their website at http://totallearningconcepts.com
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Power Up your Shades When was the last time you pulled up in front of your garage, got out of your car, manually opened the garage-door, got back in your car, drove your car into the garage, and then manually closed it again? When was the last time you got out of your chair, walked up to your TV, and changed the channel? For many years now we have done these simple tasks with the push of a button. What about window coverings? More and more conveniences are now available with the trend moving in the direction of Smart Homes. With Tablet or Smart Phone and Wi-Fi, our heating and air-conditioning, our alarm systems, lighting, and on and on can be controlled automatically by pre-setting specific times of day to operate without even touching a button. We can even answer the doorbell remotely without being home.
Joan Miller
The Blind Ladies
The ability to operate shades according to a schedule is a simple operation. Enter the times of day into your app and it’s done! For those who travel frequently, it’s a way to make your home appear occupied. You can program shades to lower when the sun hits the windows or when you turn out the lights at night. Raise
the shades after you leave for work when it’s still dark. The window automation technology integrates with Alexa and other Smart Home devices. No longer are high windows the only ones that are remotely controlled. Automated Blinds, Shades, and even Plantation Shutters have become a part of many homes in recent years. Another benefit is that they are completely child-safe, having no exposed cords. The window covering industry has come under intense scrutiny because of the strangulation hazards of some corded products. No worries with motorized products. For more information or for a complimentary consultation, please give Joan a call. 404 918-5288 or visit www.theblindladies.com
KIRBY continued from page 1
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Who wore it better? Kirby Smart The Golden or Kirby Smart, the Georgia Football Coach?
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Kirby is good dog who does bad things, and he came into the lives of the Leftwich family at just the right time.
cancer. Their two boys had grown up with Conrad, and something was missing in their lives. Then along came Kirby, and he filled that space in a way only animal lovers will ever understand. They say, the size turtles can grow to is dependent on the size of their habitat. Where sea turtles can grow to weigh a ton due to the spaciousness of their environment, in the case of Kirby Smart, his personality is only as large as the attention he receives from his humans and their capacity to love. With a large backyard and a swimming pool which Kirby enjoys diving into and splashing around with the boys, Amanda calls her home ‘Dog Heaven.’ “We don’t treat dogs like pets. We treat dogs like family, and so when someone comes over and doesn’t like him on the couch, we’ll just say, ‘Well, it’s his house!’” After Halloween, Kirby’s flamboyance took on a life of its own through social media. Kirby was
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named after Kirby Smart, the Georgia Football coach, and so Amanda decided to dress him up as his doppelganger for Halloween. The photo, posted on Instagram, received 152 likes, and his account has close to 1,000 followers. Not bad for a fur ball. “He definitely has some human-like characteristics and it’s become larger than life through social media,” Amanda said. Conrad had quite the following, too, but it wasn’t until after he passed that she thought about what that meant. “There’s something to be said for those dog posts on Instagram and Facebook. It’s a good break from everyday things. Dogs are like natural therapists. They have the ability to heal. And on social media, it’s something anybody can hop on and understand.” Kirby’s journey with the Leftwich family can be traced scrolling through his Instagram. One of the first posts is of him as a small pup, drinking beside Conrad’s bowl. “I
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With humans who treat him more like family than a pet, Kirby Smart lives in “Dog Heaven.”
plan on being a big swimmer just like [Conrad]” the caption reads. Kirby grows bigger in the pictures, and his voice becomes distinctly his own as his antics are posted more frequently through videos and meme-like images. He had big shoes to fill — with a name like Kirby Smart that was inevitable. But the thing about Kirby is, he prefers to steal shoes, anyway. He wears costumes on Halloween. He swims in the pool with his humans. Glasses and eyewear are some of his favorite chew toys. Kirby Smart is a ‘good dog that does bad things’, and he came at just the right time. Follow Kirby on Instagram @kirbysmart_the_golden
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