Gwinnett Citizen North June 2019

CITIZEN

Vol. 31 No. 8

Heating & Air

page 3

.COM

N o rt h

gwinnett Est. 1988 Covering Dacula, Suwanee, Lawrenceville, Buford, Sugar Hill, Braselton

FREE

JUNE 2019

www.gwinnettcitizen.com

Amazon Delivery Service Partner Milton Collier provides jobs to veterans

By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com

Citizen Connection

page 4

You’ve probably seen one driving along local highways or on the streets of your neighborhood. Amazon Prime’s delivery vans are everywhere.

The online retailer launched its delivery service partner program about a year ago, hoping to hire individuals to deliver locally and build their own businesses as an Amazon Delivery Service Partner (DSP). For Milton Collier — a veteran who worked in the military for decades — getting his business “TranMazon” started in Lawrenceville was like riding a bike with training wheels.

“My job was pretty simple,” Collier said of his experience when launching TranMazon. “It was to take those tools [Amazon had provided] and connect with those [designated] resources. I now provide benefits for close to 100 employees. In the real world, I think I would have a challenge ramping up to 100 employees, but because of the program that Amazon put together, I’ve been able to ramp up to 100 employees in less than a year.”

When starting their dispatch service, Amazon committed $1 million to help cover startups costs for military veteran DSPs around the country. For each qualified veteran candidate, the company allocates $10,000 to pay for vans, uniforms and other necessities. According to Amazon’s media representative Amanda Ip, they favor candidates

See AMAZON Page 18 Estate Planning

page 7

Queens

Special photo

Amazon launched its Delivery Service Partner (DSP) program about a year ago, hoping to hire qualified individuals and veterans to deliver locally and build their own businesses as an Amazon DSP.

US Navy Veteran Bill York shares WWII memories

Standards and Classics of Freedom — a performance to unite the community

page 15

INSIDE Citizen Connection 4 Gwinnett Pulse 6 Health & Wellness 12 Classifieds 17

PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID ABC DIRECT ECR-WSS POSTAL CUSTOMER

Photo by Julie Thompson

US Navy WWII veteran Bill York is passionate about sharing his research and experiences from the Second Great War with all who wish to listen.

By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com To this day, he’s the kind of guy to strike conversations with strangers in the grocery store. A WWII US Navy Veteran, 93-year old Bill York can say ‘thank you’ in 42 languages, and he prides himself on communicating with almost everyone he meets in their native tongue.

York traveled extensively during the Second Great War. From 1943-1945, he was primarily posi-

tioned in the Mediterranean working with the Allies’ Amphibious forces.

On June 6, 1944, the Allies pulled off the largest seaborne invasion in warfare history. For the “D-Day” Normandy Landings, more than 150,000 troops from the U.S., Great Britain and Canada stormed the beaches of Normandy France in one of the most pivotal battles in the War. Codenamed “Operation Nep-

See WWII on Page 16

By Tiffany Brix GwinnettCitizen.com Allan Wiltshire wants to bring a powerful movement to our community. Over the years of traveling and performing for many individuals of “The Greatest Generation,” he accumulated observations of the precious treasures they have in their deep values. Through music and performance, Allan wants to make sure we preserve those invalu-

Special photo

able community values and help them live on in future generations.

Now Allan wants to steep his observations and experiences in his local community.

In December, Standards and Classics kicked off its season of concerts with Standards and Classics of Christmas, a variety show-type performance with songs from the 40s, 50s, and 60s. On July 5th, Standards and Classics of Freedom will fill the

See STANDARDS on Page 10

2

gwinnettcitizen.com

June 2019

5 Signs it’s Time to Replace Your Air Conditioner Co-Publishers/Editors Auveed Bagheri Cawthon Chris Cawthon 107 W Crogan St • Lawrenceville, Ga 30046 • Office (770) 963-3699 www.gwinnettcitizen.com • info@gwinnettcitizen.com

Matthew Holtkamp Holtkamp Heating & Air

Wondering if it’s time to pull the pull the plug on your old HVAC system? These 5 signs will help you know when you need to replace the old rust bucket with a modern, efficient and reliable air conditioner for your home.

1. System Age. If your air conditioning system is 10 years or older, you’re living with old, inefficient equipment that’s costing you money every month. Plus, considering the typical life of a system and costly repairs as it ages, it often makes sense to replace 10 year old systems based on new technology and modern efficiency.

2. Expensive Repairs. What’s the point of repeatedly investing many hundreds of dollars in expensive HVAC repairs when a new system with a bullet proof warranty will deliver better comfort and the peace of

June 2019

Special Photo

mind of repair-free service? You’ll be better off spending your money on a new air conditioning system rather than throwing good money at a dying unit.

3. Major Inefficiency. A/C Systems with a low “SEER” rating cost lots of money to operate due to their inefficiency. Modern HVAC systems have new technology that allows them to operate at significantly reduced energy costs, which brings your utility bills down while still keeping your family completely comfortable!

4. Exhausting Unpredictability.

Tired of having your A/C system fail when you need it most? When you purchase an American Standard air conditioner from us, you’ll be installing the system rated #1 in reliability by

a leading consumer digest magazine.

Instead of wasting money on needless repairs and wondering when the next breakdown will happen, invest in your family’s future comfort.

5. Family Discomfort. If you set your thermostat to a reasonable temperature and can’t get close to that level of comfort, your system may be failing you or the system size may be incorrect. Plus, if your home feels humid in the summer, that means your air conditioner isn’t properly reducing the humidity levels in your home. A new system will give you a startling increase in comfort.

Want a free estimate on the highly reliable and affordable air conditioners we have for any budget? Please call us at 770-271-7511.

gwinnettcitizen.com

The mission of gwinnettcitizen.com newspaper, a publication of Media Maker Group Inc. dba gwinnettcitizen.com, is to provide our readers with stories about their communities and people. Our stories and photos bring to life the passion of living, working, playing, living healthy and worshiping in Gwinnett County. We help connect readers with local businesses to facilitate and promote shopping and buying local.

The newspaper, a free publication, is direct mailed to 3 geographic zones in Gwinnett County containing hyper-local news pertinent to each community for a total monthly distribution of 60,000 printed copies in Gwinnett County.

HAVE A STORY TO SHARE?

Community news is our passion and we look to our readers for great stories.

Email story ideas to sharing@gwinnettcitizen.com.

SPECIAL MILESTONES AND ACHIEVEMENTS?

There’s no greater joy than to celebrate big accomplishments with our readers.

(Weddings, Births, Anniversaries, Birthdays, etc.) Email announcements to info@ gwinnettcitizen.com by the 25th of the month and we’ll weave them in where we can.

HAVE AN EVENT TO PROMOTE?

We offer free event postings via our online calendar.

Upload your event today at gwinnettcitizen.com/events/calendar

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 770963-3699 for a quote.

The viewpoints of columnists, advertisers, submissions are not necessarily those of gwinnettcitizen.com. GwinnettCitizen.com is not responsible for errors or omissions. Publishers reserve the right to accept or reject all advertising material. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without permission from the Publishers. All rights reserved. © Copyright 2019. Media Maker Group Inc, dba GwinnettCitizen.com.

3

GWINNETTCITIZEN

connection

*“What is your opinion of the proposal to rezone a 51-acre property in a residential area (Ozora Rd.) as a waste transfer station?”

Citizen Connection is a random sampling of opinions regarding various subjects. Visit our Facebook page to add yours and see a whole lot more!

“I had no idea. I hope it doesn’t turn the city into a smelly place that people don’t want to visit.” ~ Kelley Wheeler-Weaver, Grayson, Ga. (Grayson Park, Grayson, Ga.)

“I think it’s a good idea.” ~ Toni Bah, Grayson, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“No. I don’t want that.” ~ Sandra Wallace, Loganville, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“Absolutely not.” ~ Holly Foulke, Grayson, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“No. That’s my thought.” ~ Samara Rudnick, Grayson, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“I heard bits and pieces about it. What I’ve heard is there are concerns. I would like to read more about it and maybe read a proposal.” ~ Angela Smith, Snellville, Ga. (Grayson Park, Grayson, Ga.)

“I used to live in Loganville. I wouldn’t want one there. It’d be different if it was somewhere where other properties weren’t around it. I surely wouldn’t want to be the one that’s backed up to it.” ~ Grace Cox, Conyers, Ga. (Grayson Park, Grayson, Ga.)

“As a property owner on Ozora Road, I’m not sure how it affects the value of my property. I would say that anything that creates jobs is a positive thing.” ~ Joel Quinn, Grayson, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“I suppose they have to put one somewhere, but I’m not sure that’s the best place. Nobody wants a trash place by where they live.” ~ Lance Manley, Grayson, Ga. (Publix, Grayson, Ga.)

“No. I live off of Ozora Road and have been a resident of Loganville for seven years … I love this town as it is. It’s beautiful, and this shouldn’t be there.” ~ Patricia Neals, Loganville, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“I don’t live near that area, but I probably wouldn’t want that near my house. The county or city of whoever’s decision it is can probably find a better place, somewhere commercial as opposed to a residential area. They have to put it somewhere, but it would be better in a commercial area.” ~ Tony Westmoreland, Snellville, Ga. (Grayson Park, Grayson, Ga.)

“No. There’s already too much traffic around here. They’ve already ruined Grayson. I remember when Grayson was a quiet, secret place, and it was awesome. Just, no. [The waste transfer station is] too close to schools, parks, and apartments. I want to keep the area clean and nice for my grandchildren to grow up now. We have it nice for future generations.” ~ Sue Jannakos, Grayson, Ga. (Grayson Park, Grayson, Ga.)

“I am not for it. It would affect the smell.

I have friends who live in that area, and the traffic is already horrendous. I can’t see all these garbage trucks going up and down [being a good idea] without first improving the roads.” ~ Kim Williams, Grayson, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

“No. Honestly, they should put waste “It’s a terrible idea. Trucks going up and somewhere undeveloped, not near this down would tear up the roads and cost kind of area. It would smell bad, and it’s more tax dollars. If the county approves not good for the environment. That’s the it, that would be just because of the number one reason.” convenience because it’s on the edge of ~ Tashia Green, Conyers, Ga. the county near Walton. Personally, I think (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.) it would be a travesty. [The land] should be turned into a park. There’s a beautiful stream there behind the quarry.” ~ Michael Spreher, Walton, Ga. (Kroger, Grayson, Ga.)

(*Your voice matters! Thanks to our local Citizens who broadcasted their opposition for the waste transfer station, the rezoning application is withdrawn for the moment. New dates TBD.)

4

gwinnettcitizen.com

June 2019

Proposed Waste Transfer Station- Noise, Odors Degraded Livability

Dave Emanuel

Cut to the Chase

If you think locating a waste transfer station in a residential area is a bad idea, you might want to look at a few facts.

At this point, you’re probably thinking, “Oh, here we go. This guy is going to try to convince me that it’s not a bad idea to have a noisy, stinking waste transfer station in my neighborhood. Read on. You just might be in for a surprise.

While I consider myself to be somewhat of a trash expert, (at my house, it’s my job to take the garbage out) I don’t know much about solid waste transfer stations. To get up to speed, I did some research and found a number of informative web sites including Dumpsters.com.

According to information on the site’s blog page, “Tracking Your Trash: What Happens at Waste Transfer Stations” waste transfer stations are “industrial facilities where municipal solid waste or MSW is temporarily held and sorted before heading to a landfill or waste-to-energy plant.”

The two operative words in that description are “industrial” and “held”. As they relate to the proposed transfer station on Ozora Road, there’s a distinct issue with locating an “industrial facility” on land that is currently zoned residential and is surrounded by residential properties. “Held” means that garbage won’t merely be transferred at the facility, it will be temporarily stored, during which time attendant odors may well blossom into a full-fledged stench.

Although people find the odor of garbage to be unpleasant, rats and mice often find it inviting.

Another operation performed at waste transfer stations is the sorting of garbage to remove items that aren’t accepted at local landfills such as batteries or other hazardous materials. Whether or not hazardous materials are sorted and removed from the trash that is sent to a landfill, they will be spending some time at the waste transfer facility. If they are mishandled, they can leach into the soil and potentially make their way to a water shed, whereupon they may flow into streams that feed into a water supply system.

Considering the equipment used at a waste transfer facility- heavy trucks, front end loaders, conveyors and compactors, such facilities have much in common with other heavy industrial sites. Consequently, such sites are inappropriate for location in or close to residential areas. Without question, the site being proposed for Ozora Road falls into the inappropriate category.

Special photo

Close to 600 citizens gathered at Graystone Church to learn about the proposal to rezone a 51-acre property on Ozora Rd as a solid waste transfer station

“Not in my back yard”, an expression used by many homeowners is usually more of a figurative phrase than a literal one. In this case it is entirely literal. To the south west, less than 150 feet separates four residential properties from the proposed site. Two more are less than 200 feet away. To the north, eight residential properties are less than 300 feet from the proposed site; over 100 residential properties are within a quarter-mile (1,320 feet) of the site.

One can only wonder if it’s coincidence that the residences that would be most affected by odor, noise and traffic are in subdivisions where houses are primarily priced at less than $200,000. Would such a facility have been proposed if the site was surrounded by half-million dollar homes?

If the foregoing considerations aren’t enough to convince the county’s planning commission and board of commissioners members that the proposed waste transfer station is an absurdly bad idea, perhaps the Gwinnett County 2040 Unified Plan will.

Special photo

Special photo

Citizens picked up yard signs and flyers at Graystone Church to help spread awareness of the rezoning of a 51-acre property on Ozora Rd

Nowhere in the plan is it stated that a vision for the future is to reduce property values by locating waste transfer sites in residential areas.

Instead, the “Our Vision” chapter includes five themes: 1 - Maintain Economic Development and Fiscal Health 2 - Foster Redevelopment 3 - Maintain Mobility and Accessibility 4 - Provide More Housing choices 5 - Keep Gwinnett a Preferred Place To “Keep Gwinnett a Preferred Place”, the theme states, “This

Larry Rose lead the meeting at Graystone Church and told those in attendance they now have a lawyer who will work on their case in the weeks leading up to the Planning and Zoning Commission Hearing on July 2 and before the County Commissioners vote on the proposal on July 23.

theme describes and ties together a broad array of issues that underpin “quality of life.” Among these issues are those related to the environment, open space and recreation, culture and entertainment, the quality of development, and adding more amenities and convenience to Gwinnett’s neighborhoods.”

Clearly, maintaining and improving livability is a major component of the plan to keep Gwinnett a preferred place. Just as clearly, having a noisy, smelly waste transfer station in your backyard does not improve livability.

It degrades it.

Citizens on the Mobilize to Stop a Solid Waste Transfer Station off Ozora Rd

By Staff Reports The message citizens spread is loud and clear — ”Stop the Waste Transfer Station on Ozora Rd.” Discovering the proposal submitted by Southern Sanitation in early June, HOA members from Kensington Forest, a surrounding neighborhood, mobilized and spread the word through a Facebook group which amassed close to 2,000 members in less than a week. HOA leaders held their first meeting at Graystone Church attended by nearly 600 concerned citizens and announced they found an attorney in Atlanta and have so far have raised over $11,000 to prevent the rezoning.

The concern is real, regional, and will test just about every thread that makes up a community; from its local citizenry, property owners, business community, local government entities, and local elected officials — and their processes. But the situation has brought out the best

June 2019

gwinnettcitizen.com

in its citizenry. People have worked together by researching and getting the word out through signs, flyers, and good old-fashioned conversations. New friendships are forming, and it gives much hope for Gwinnett’s future; a citizenry that truly cares and works together for the common good. Not only are those opposed saying ‘No’ to a waste transfer station in their residential, they are saying “NO!” to ANY waste station in any residential area.

NOTE: The application for the waste station is withdrawn for the moment. New dates TBD. To learn more and get involved, visit: www.StopOzoraRezoning.com Facebook Group: Stop the waste transfer station on Ozora Rd! GoFundMe: www.gofundme.com/stop-thewaste-transfer-on-ozora-road

5

Gwinnett Pulse

Live! It’s never too late!

By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com

If you could give advice to your younger self, what would you say?

“I’d tell myself to never stop doing what you love doing,” said Alison Reid. Last December, Reid and a group of friends were at a networking event when the idea struck her. What if they started taking tap lessons?

“I danced for 15 years as a child and loved it. I even thought I would become a dance teacher one day,” Reid explained.

The idea was well received by the group, and before they had time to back out, one of them found a studio that offered adult classes.

“Amy Stanitzke is a take charge kind of gal, and she immediately looked up a place and found the North Georgia Dance Academy (NGDA). Eight of us started taking lessons there in January,” Reid said.

Unlike Reid, Stanitzke had never taken dance lessons in her life.

“The group of us had decided to do it so I said, ‘Okay, I’ll plan it.’ [We live all over Metro Atlanta], so I intentionally chose a place near I85 that would be convenient for all of us,” Stanitzke said.

They started at a beginner’s level, meeting at 7:30 every Tuesday for 30 minutes. “Welcome to Kindergarten,” their instructor, Yvonne Antinazi, joked during their first class. But over the next few weeks, the steps incrementally advanced. For some of the women, the commitment was too much, and the group grew smaller.

“The first few classes, I really had to concentrate, and I had to keep up my practice at home. But all of a sudden, things clicked,” said Kris Brant, who works at a senior care center.

Brant admits that at times, she got frustrated. Although she’s been active her whole life, when it came to dance, she was starting with a clean slate.

“Once we got the first song down, I felt accomplished. Just going from zero background to actually end up performing something was pretty satisfying,” Brant said.

In May, the group had their first recital. Four of the classmates were able to attend, and a few instructors and their daughters decided to perform with them. Forgoing costumes, the women wore all black and tapped to the “If My Friends Could See Me Now,” remake by Linda Clifford.

“It was so much fun!” Stanitzke said. “We all went to eat afterward, and our friends and family came to support us.”

During the summer, the NGDA’s regular classes go on break, as children get busy with swim clubs, traveling and other seasonal activities with their families. But the ladies from the adult tap class are hooked, so they’ve negotiated to have a six-week sum-

6

gwinnettcitizen.com

Special photo

Front- Yvonne Antinazi, dance instructor and owner of North Georgia Dance Academy, Second-row L-R: Alison Reid, Student Teacher, LD Dekatch (hat on), Amy Stanitzke.

Special photo

Meeting every Tuesday for 30 minutes, the adult tap class at North Georgia Dance Academy is made up of career women who look forward to the class as time for themselves.

Special photo

After beginning an adult tap class in January, the ladies enjoyed their first recital in May. For some of them, the performance was a tribute to all their hard work and the perfect occasion to let loose.

mer series before regular classes resume in the fall.

With their first performance in the books, the ladies hope to build their skills to be able to start performing at senior centers.

“We hope to be ready by October.

Most of us are in the senior service industry, so [performing at senior centers] is our goal,” Stanitzke said.

As for the choreography, the women say it’s all a matter of muscle memory.

“We’re not Rockettes by any means, but I’m proud of what we’ve learned,” Reid said. “It’s the best exercise for your brain, too. It’s all repetition.”

Since they started, the group switched to 40-minute weekly lessons. As career ladies, time is not a luxury many of them have, but when they’re tapping, they consider it well spent.

“All of us consider it the best time of our week,” said LD DeKatch who had danced most of her life until about 10 years ago. “As a working mom, taking time for myself is something, I tend to renege on. But we’ve all stuck with this, and it’s a great stress relief. And how often do you get to dance with other 45 plus-year old women?”

For Reid, the class is a commitment to her young self, a way to live out a passion she’s always held.

“It’s always important to challenge ourselves. It’s never too late to try anything — there’s 90-year-olds who go sky diving,” Reid said. “It’s interesting to see the parts of aging we can defy.”

The group has advanced to an intermediate level after taking weekly lessons for half a year, and they encourage anyone to take that first step to try just try it out.

“I think anyone could do it,” Brant said. “I’m 60, so sometimes my knees hurt. I was embarrassed, thinking I looked silly, but now, I’m proud of what we’ve learned. It’s a fun little bit of exercise, different than aerobics. We take it at our own pace, so it’s nothing crazy.”

June 2019

Out of date beneficiary designations can spell disaster

James Miskell

Estate Planning

Many accounts, like retirement and investment accounts, allow you to designate the beneficiaries of the account upon your death.

It’s a convenient way to distribute these accounts, and typically you make the selection when you open the account. What many folks don’t realize is that when they get a divorce or make a new will, these beneficiary designations do not automatically change. This is a detail that if overlooked can frustrate even the most expensive and thorough estate plan, whether you have a will, a living trust, both or neither. Don’t let your assets go to your ex. - Keep your beneficiary designations current!

Making your estate plan begins

June 2019

with thinking about your values and your family and having conversations with your spouse and/ or family members. Consider all the details: the financial, the legal, and the shared understandings.

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 updates from your financial advisor.

You should discuss more than how your assets will be divided.

Make plans for possible disability and long term care. You should talk about 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. 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.

“Don’t let your assets go to your ex. - Keep your beneficiary designations current!”

And of course, you will also discuss your inheritance – choosing who will benefit from your estate.

Oftentimes, physical items are difficult to split up. How you split up sentimental family items can start a fight, or, if thoughtfully handled 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.

Money can be easily divided among your beneficiaries in any proportions that you believe are

gwinnettcitizen.com

appropriate. Wills direct only the assets owned in your name when you die. Trusts can only distribute property held by the trust. Financial and retirement accounts with beneficiary designations don’t care about your will and are not interested in your trust. Plan administrators will pay the people you told them to pay when you last filled out the form. If you named the two children you had when you opened the account and have four when you die, half of your children will split the account and half will get nothing. If your ex-spouse is still named, he or she will be surprised and remember you fondly; your current spouse and children will also be surprised. Their reactions will be less favorable.

Keeping your plan current is essential in avoiding unintended

consequences. Your priorities and goals for your estate plan should dictate the structure of your plan and the creation of the documents required to make it a reality. The critical first step is starting the right conversations with your spouse and family members. Continue the conversation with financial advisors and estate planning attorneys who can guide you in building the right plan to achieve your goals. Make certain that your beneficiary designations and other estate planning documents work together to achieve the right result.

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.

7

What do your windows say about your home?

What do your windows say about your home? Are your windows covered or un-covered? As a window covering professional, I am always drawn to the window coverings in homes, commercial spaces, and on TV shows!

If I see a unique design or fabric somewhere, then I get a photo. There are dozens of photos on Pinterest and Houzz that reflect the character of the homeowner and the designer.

There are a multitude of readymade products out there if you know what you want in terms of design and color. We’ll talk about drapery panels since they are a popular and simple window treatment. One of the challenges is finding the right length.

Drapery panels should be hung several inches above the window frame.

The ceiling height and overall window height should determine drapery panel length. Proper length should look in perspective to the entire room size.

How do you choose fabric? I love pattern and color, but do you? Decorating style and color scheme in a home should be inspiration for fabric selection. If there are no patterns in the room, then look for some type of pattern in the fabric. A complimentary pattern can be used with other patterns in a room if they work in harmony. If you’re afraid of too much color or pattern on your windows, solids with texture are an alternative. Use colorful pillows as accents.

8

Joan Miller

The Blind Ladies

Drapery hardware is an important part of the equation. Make sure the brackets that hold the pole have sufficient clearance for the fabric to hang past any existing blinds or shades.

Choose a finish that coordinates with the fabric and or a fixture in the room.

Keep in mind the diameter of the pole.

Does it fit with the overall scope of the room? Referencing pictures that you like will help you put it all together.

If you’re not the DIY type, then give Joan a call for a free consultation. She has fabrics and ideas that will transform your home or office into a warmer, more inviting place. The Blind Ladies – 404 918-5288 or visit the website at www.theblindladies.com.

Palm trees are not just for the tropics Often, when homeowners think of palm trees, images of places with tropical climates such as Florida and Hawaii come to mind. However, you do not need to travel long distances to enjoy the beauty of these plants.

Several palms can be grown in our area. They are attractive, low maintenance, tolerant of prolonged dry conditions and evergreen.

The critical factor that determines where palms can be grown is cold hardiness. Some can tolerate our cold winters while others will need some protection. The ones that do the best in our area are the needle palm and the windmill palm.

The needle palm is easy to grow.

It is among the hardiest tolerating temperatures as low as -5o F. They have a slow growth rate and rarely exceed five feet in height at maturity. The palms are a clumpy, small growing understory palm. They have fan-shaped leaves that are deep green on top and silvery green on the underside. Needle palms can be used as single specimens or in multiple plantings. They are an excellent choice for sites with limited space.

The palms prefer to grow in partially shaded areas and thrive in most soils as long as they have adequate moisture.

Windmill palms have a single

gwinnettcitizen.com

Tim Daly

Gwinnett County Extension Agent

slender brown trunk with dense fibers resembling burlap covering it. The trunk is usually wider at the top than the bottom. It has a moderate growth rate and can reach a height of 20 to 25 feet. It has fanshaped leaves that are two to three feet across. They grow well in most soils but require adequate drainage.

Windmill palms prefer light to medium shade. They are attractive when planted in groups but do well as a single specimen and are a great tree to plant around swimming pools because they do not drop their leaves.

It makes an excellent accent plant and does well in confined areas such as courtyards and entrances.

Other palms, such as sabal palms, saw palmettos and others can be grown in our area, but are not as

cold tolerant and could suffer damage when the temperatures drop below 20 degrees. In the winter, tie the fronds together in bundles and then cover them with burlap or blankets to protect from the cold. Make sure the central bud is protected since the new growth originates from this point.

Palm trees are best planted in the early summer when their root growth is the highest. They should be watered deeply and thoroughly.

Apply mulch around the root zone to reduce water loss. Palms should be fertilized in the growing season before early August. Use a fertilizer that contains both potassium and magnesium since palms are prone to suffer from a deficiency of these nutrients. Broadcast or scatter the fertilizer over the root zone.

Palm trees are not limited to regions with tropical climates. Even this far north, some palm trees are suited to our environment. If given proper care, they will thrive and will add interest to the home landscape.

Timothy Daly is a County Extension Agent with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, Gwinnett County. He can be reached at 678-377-4011 or tdaly@uga.edu.

June 2019

McKinley Community Care Center, a second home for senior citizens

By Julie Thompson GwinnettCitizen.com With daily activities like singalongs, games and meals, many participants have come to think of McKinley Community Care Center as a second home.

The Snellville-based adult day center recently underwent a rebranding and changed its name after completing its previous franchise agreement . In Aysha Cooper’s words, they will continue to offer the same high-end service as always.

“It’s the same owner with a new name,” Cooper said. Beyond the new signage and logo, the change is hardly noticeable. McKinley has maintained the same location, staffing, and most activities will continue as they have for years.

“She’s been doing this for a while, so I understand she would want to do her own brand eventually,” said Frank Meyer, a participant at the Snellville day center for five years.

As the owner of an independent business, Cooper will have the ability to add a more personalized touch to her company and to bring her values for family and community to the forefront of her business.

“We have completed our franchise contract, and so we have picked up our corporate name ‘McKinley’ now that we are an in-

June 2019

Special photo

Owner Aysha Cooper and Bob Treadwell at the rebranding ceremony for McKinley Community Care Center.

dependent business, “Cooper explained. “And if you’re wondering where ‘McKinley’ comes from, it’s my son’s middle name.”

Cooper’s father Bob Treadwell says she’s “a natural” caregiver.

“I’m proud of her,” Treadwell said of his daughter. “She went to school for healthcare and watched my parents who passed suffer from Alzheimer’s, and she helped us take care of them.”

Cooper admits that caring for her grandparents was what inspired her to open a day center. At McKinley, her goal has always been to engage participants through activities that stimulate their minds and encourage them to utilize their intel-

Special photo

Executive Director Tato Gayflorsee presents Joyce Spraggs with a gift at McKinley Community Center’s rebranding ceremony. Joyce’s mother, Odessa Spraggs has been a participant at the center for two years, and they both enjoy the family-friendly atmosphere at McKinley.

lectual and social skills.

“They are leaders, and they only need the proper assistance to stay connected and live as independently as possible while enjoying their later years,” Cooper said of the seniors participating at the center.

McKinley provides multiple opportunities for seniors to lead group activities. Frank Meyer will seize that opportunity by leading several games of “Pictionary with Frank” with fellow participants in the month of June.

gwinnettcitizen.com

“We’re more than a bingo parlor.

We’re doing a lot more than that,” said McKinley’s Executive Director Tato Gayflorsee.

Gayflorsee explained that many professional caregivers are concerned that seniors are spending too much of their time being inactive and alone.

“Loneliness is an epidemic in this country just as lethal as cigarettes,” said Gayflorsee who is working towards a Ph.D in caregiving and is writing his dissertation on alternative forms of treatment for Alzheimer’s.

Some of the regular activities participants enjoy at McKinley include plant and pet therapies, singalongs and movie nights. Mealtime tends to be one of the most popular activities.

“We always begin with a daily greeting where we go over the lunch menu and what we’re going to be doing that day before breaking up into different activities,” said Program Director Michelle Johnson.

Johnson explained that the staff tries to cater to participants’ tastes, and they accommodate requests for variations to the menu.

“It all works out in the end. It takes so many to make one day complete and to make sure everybody is happy,” Johnson said.

New to McKinley Center is the Universal Yums program which al-

lows participants to taste foods from around the world while receiving informational materials about the country’s cuisine and culture. “As far as I know, we are the only adult day center participating in this program,” Johnson said.

The staff held a rebranding town hall on May 23, 2019, inviting loyal participants and their families to come celebrate. The ceremony commenced shortly after 6 p.m. and ended with cake and a presentation of gifts.

“This is one of the best times I have had with my mother,” Joyce Spraggs said of the two-year period her mother, Odessa Spraggs, has been a participant at McKinley. “My grandmother died at an early age, so my mother never really had a mother. Our roles are reversed now, and it’s been beautiful. I feel good knowing my mother is being well cared for here at McKinley Care while I work during the day.”

As the center enters its pilot year as an independent business, Cooper hopes to continue working with caretakers and families to provide customized care for each participant. She invites families to join in their daily activities as often as they have availability. McKinley is located at 1567 Janmar Rd. in Snellville. More information is available online at www.mckinleyga.com.

9

Rotary Fellowships

STANDARDS continued from page 1

Leigh McIntosh

Lawrenceville Rotary

Special Photo

Creative Enterprises volunteers to read at Lawrenceville Elementary School for Rotary Club of Lawrenceville

Rotary Club of Lawrenceville is ending another productive year in June as a “Bronze” club. While this is not as prestigious as earning “Gold” club status, it still requires the efforts of many people to make it happen. Since less than half of the clubs in GA attained this status, we owe a special thank you to club president, Craig Roberts, for making sure our club was in the top 50% of clubs.

After a year of articles discussing why Rotary has a different focus each month, this article will close the year by describing Rotary Fellowships. Most of you know by now that Rotary has a mission to do good in the world. The one million Rotarians share this mission and sometimes they find people interested in specific areas to meet that mission. Fellowships are international and open to Rotarians, their families, and other interested people. Examples include environment, ethics, social responsibility, sports, various cultures, young people, E-clubs, and probably hundreds of other areas of interest. This is a good way to meet like-minded people from all over the world while helping in an area that is important to the individual.

We are fortunate to be in a community with some conscientious and ethical leaders who have made Gwinnett County into the powerhouse that it is. Some of these folks will not be seeking re-election and the leaders we chose will decide the direction of Gwinnett County that has been 200 years in the making. My sincere hope is that the majority of us wish to do well in the world, and we will start in our own communities when we elect the best people for the job without basing those decisions on political party, race, religion, gender, or anything else that has nothing to do with how qualified a candidate is.

10

Special Photo

Kevin Pierannumzi with Rotaract.

hall of the Red Clay Theatre in Duluth. This Freedom installment of the concert series is especially dear to Allan’s heart. Allan’s son joined the military, starting a reflective process for Allan that transformed his outlook on the freedoms and patriotism in this country, what they mean to him, and what they can mean for others in the community.

After Vietnam, we as a country learned from the mistakes of our attitude toward the men and women serving in the military. We learned to support those individuals and show gratitude for what they do.

Our service men and women protect us, but on more levels than we know on the surface. As Allan explains, “Those heroes in the military will know things that I will never know—and I’m ok with that. They see things that, luckily, I will never have to see.” They do not only physically protect us, but also give an emotional line of defense, keeping the most horrible things they see to themselves. They shoulder the strain of experiences so we can be free from their weight. That is a public service we often don’t consider.

So many men and women contributed to insuring our freedoms, and sincere gratitude is an appropriate gift in return—we need to encourage “public virtue”. Allan asserts that it is everyone’s responsibility to protect the peace and purity of community within our personal reach— neighborhood, local, state.

Special Photo

Bill York

Nonagenarian

Special Photo

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.

path to celebrate freedoms required a painful walk through history. “Understanding the cost of freedom has allowed me to appreciate freedom and to personalize it,” he reflects.

Standards and Classics of Freedom is for everyone. The focus transcends and unites political affiliation, race, age, or any other way we separate ourselves. Allan wants to honor and celebrate those who have contributed to our freedom and bring the classic values that help all of us remember where we started and where we have been so that we can solidify a purpose in where we want to go. Allan sums it up beautifully when he says, “Strength and beauty of nation directly relate to the strength and beauty of its individual citizens.” He hopes all who join him for this concert walk away from the evening with something to take into their own community and make every generation the greatest generation.

There will be a preview performance of Standards and Classics of Freedom at the Sugar Hill United Methodist Church on June 23rd at 10:30am.

Standards and Classics of Freedom

That con-job went on until I left the farm at age 14.

During that age there was gummy bears, licorice, fudge; good stuff for teeth.

I did not figure my grandparents were very smart on tooth care because each night there were false teeth grinning at me from water glasses on the ledge over the sink.

My first session with a dentist was in sickbay aboard ship in North Africa, 4 teeth with decay causing agony. I was 17 years old.

Since then, it has been abscesses, root canals, Hershey’s Kisses, injections, fillings, Nestles, M&N’s gold inlays, extractions, Milky Ways, Ghirardelli, tooth aches, profanities ice cream, capped teeth, caramel corn, tapioca, root beer, coca cola and inattention to my teeth.

“Did you brush your teeth Billy Gene?”

Often I wished I had paid more attention to my Grandma’s concerns.

“Yes, Grandma.”

My dentist died. I went to my wife’s dentist for a couple years until I got one more tooth ache. I discover he did not extract teeth.

“Did you brush your teeth, Billy Gene?”

“Yes, Grandma.”

He referred me to an oral surgeon who quoted me a mind numbing price.

“Did you brush your teeth, Billy Gene?”

“Yes, Grandma.”

I inquired around and found an office that was locked on Wednesday. I walked down the hall and found Kinsey Smiles, Brian Kinsey, a charming fellow, who does everything in dentistry. Capable staff.

Talkative, smiling, an expert on new dental procedures, personable. If I were still in business, I would hire him. He’d make a great fur salesman.

I am now into a sophisticate arena of dentistry with titanium implants.

Of course, fewer vacations or new cars.

I sat on my back porch on a cloudless night. I looked skyward. I could feel my grandma’s presence…still concerned.

“Did you brush your teeth, Billy Gene?”

“You should see my teeth Grandma.

You would be so proud.”

“Smile toward heaven, Billy Gene.”

I smiled toward the brightest star. It had to be my Grandma.

“Your teeth look great, Billy Gene.

I’m glad you paid attention to me when you were little.”

Kinsey Smiles 678 714 0525 3625 Braselton Hwy, Suite 102 Dacula, Georgia 30019

July 5th 7:30pm Red Clay Theatre in Duluth Buy tickets at allanwiltshire.com\standardsandclassics Reserve seats $30 ($33 at the door) Premium seats $35 ($38 at the door)

Regrets

Jamie Cramer with GA Department of Human Services.

Matt Elder with HomeFirst Gwinnett Initiative

This is one of the virtues that Allan wants to preserve and instill in every generation going forward. “A sense of Pride comes from deep virtues,” and Allan has a passion for doing his part to nurture the best parts of the past generations into future generations.

Each Standards and Classics concert— Standards and Classics of Christmas, Standards and Classics for Lovers, Standards and Classics of Freedom, and any others that come along—is an investment in the community. Allan and his performing company sing songs and entertain with a purpose. Allan gives the history behind the songs he shares. We may think we know the lyrics, but when we hear the real story behind how a song grew into existence, the meaning of those words change drastically. For those who lived during the time, the songs transport them back to a special memory. Allan sees it on faces in the audience over and over. He sees the joy, the tears, the laughter, the sorrow.

Allan also has a valuable, unique perspective to share. Allan is a first generation Panamanian-American, with a father from Panama and mother from Costa Rica. He identifies with both the Hispanic community and persons of color. He understands that among both groups, among others, expressions of patriotism can be a bittersweet and complicated issue. Allan’s personal

“Did you brush your teeth, Billy Gene?

I was maybe 6 years old.

“Yes, Grandma.”

“You ate a lot of orange slices, and sugar is not good for your teeth.”

In the confines of the bathroom the toothbrush lay on a shelf as dry as a bone. I hated my toothbrush. My comic book was more interesting.

Flash Gordon was my hero.

I wetted my brush in the basin. I went into the kitchen and hugged Grandma. I showed her my wet toothbrush.

“Good boy, Billy Gene,” she said.

Sometime, when everyone was asleep I’d sneak into the pantry and pilfer a cup of brown sugar from the container.

Brown sugar would begin the rotting process on my teeth during the night.

I convinced my grandmother that I was attentive to my teeth.

gwinnettcitizen.com

Bill is a 92-year old WW II Navy veteran and retired President of York Furs in Buckhead. You can contact him by email at Sioux2222@gmail.com

June 2019

Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce: May’s OnTopic Meeting and Metro Waterproofing Celebrates 45 years with the Chamber!

By Tiffany Brix GwinnettCitizen.com Once a month, the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce has its On Topic Luncheon. Presented by Rocket IT, this signature monthly event features high-profile speakers throughout the year. Meetings are designed to keep members well-informed about current business and regional issues. During the May event, they discussed how Georgia is poised to be an attractive career destination for job recruits. Gwinnett Chamber meetings such as these give companies a finger on the pulse of the business community and provide a valuable resource for members. Most of the companies represented in the room had jobs that they needed to fill but, currently, cannot find adequate talent to fill them. The general requirements to hire potential employees for the jobs they need to fill was not elaborate. If you are looking for employment here are some straightforward ways you can find a job with many companies present at the On Topic meeting: 1) Show up. Yes, this was something that several companies mentioned. Take it a step further and show up on time, and you are off to a stellar start!

2) Dress professionally. Please do NOT show up in your pajamas, even just to ask for an application.

3) Don’t be on your phone. Don’t even look at it while you are there.

Leave it in your car if habit makes this problematic for you. If you do have it with you, put it away and turn off notifications.

4) Be able to pass the initial employment drug test.

5) Don’t be afraid if you don’t feel you have enough prior training.

If you have the above qualifications and a willingness to work, many companies will give you the training you need. Often, even if you start in an entry-level position, there are plenty of opportunities to advance.

These requirements may seem like common sense. Unfortunately, many employment hopefuls don’t know these simple basics. Clyde Strickland, attending with his family to celebrate his company’s anniversary as Chamber members, spoke up during this conversation and explained adamantly that Metro Waterproofing has field jobs they need to fill when they can find talent with good work ethic. They will gladly offer whatever training needed when they find quality employees. Metro Waterproofing employees become a family and, with that, enjoy some incredible job incentives.

Many companies create a work environment that feels like family.

However, a story about what they call The Big Fire at Metro Waterproofing shows the depth of just how sincere-

June 2019

Special photo

L-R: Vince DeSilva, Sr. Vice President, Member Services presents the Chairman’s Club Business of the Month to Kenneth Strickland, Sandra Strickland, Clyde Strickland, Theresa Bullock and Myron Bullock.

Waterproofing actively supports are Path Project, Special Kneads Bakery, Repairing Hands Ministry, Partnership of Domestic Violence, among many others.

As mentioned before, Metro Waterproofing offers some incredible employee benefits. From the very beginning, they offered health insurance before that was something many employers even considered.

They pay half of the healthcare costs across the board, an excellent benefit. They also provide a retirement plan and profit sharing for all employees. One other jaw-dropping benefit that Metro Waterproofing offers is an extraordinary gift to every single employee who reaches 25 years of employment with them. When an employee, more a member of their business family, reaches that 25-year landmark, Metro Waterproofing

presents that employee with a gift of their choice worth $25,000. Some of the selections for this gift have been boats, RVs, cash, cars. Recently, they have been celebrating more and more 25-year employees.

The best companies nurture life lessons as well as employment. Sandra painted a beautiful parallel that illustrates how Metro Waterproofing gives this sincere support, “Never forget where you came from, and make sure you’re on a solid foundation—in life and buildings.”

For more information on the OnTopic meetings, visit the Gwinnett Chamber Events Calendar https://gwinnettchamber.org/ events For more information about Metro Waterproofing, visit their website metrowaterproofing.com

Special photo

L-R: Clyde Strickland, Sandra Strickland, Kenneth Strickland, Theresa and Myron Bullock.

ly Clyde instilled this pillar into his company. In 1986, flames consumed the business, destroying everything.

As they assessed the damage, someone tried to comfort Clyde and said, “At least this wasn’t your home.”

Clyde very earnestly and heavily responded, “Everything in my home can be replaced. This business is everyone’s livelihood—everyone’s home is affected by this fire.”

Metro Waterproofing celebrated their own company’s 45th anniversary two years ago. This year is another distinctive landmark—45 years as members of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce. In 1972, Clyde Strickland started Metro Waterproofing with a $1400 truck, $100 ladder, and eight employees. Now Metro Waterproofing has around 300 employees and is a multi-million dollar regional business. Those two points are not connected in a straight line, however. Clyde, his family, and the business had struggles and heartache along the way. The Big Fire was a big challenge—they lost everything. In that darkest of moments, the Metro Waterproofing family rose from the ashes. Before the cinders of the devastating fire fully cooled, Clyde’s best friend, Don Ross, handed over his entire inheritance to Clyde so that Metro Waterproofing could keep running seamlessly. Clyde humbly took that gift of faith and love and did not squander it. From that point forward, Metro Waterproofing operated as a cash-based company, a change for the better and something they feel helped steady their success, even in challenging economic cli-

mates. Clyde paid back that loan with interest and gifts of faith.

Metro Waterproofing also gives considerable effort to stay ahead of new technologies and techniques.

Continuing education is essential to the Strickland family. His wife, Sandra, nurtured that love for learning in her entire family. Their deep professional relationships with their vendors give them first glimpses into what’s on the horizon, enhancing the professional education of their waterproofers.

Clyde faithfully grew his business until he turned it over to the next generation to continue the company. Clyde remains as CEO, and on the Board of Directors and Sandra is Corporate Treasurer. His son Kenneth Strickland is President, other son Mike Strickland and son-in-law Myron Bullock are VPs, daughter Theresa Bullock is Corporate Secretary. Metro Waterproofing’s top priority has always been to act in life and in business with integrity and honor, giving service to make sure the customer is happy. While every decision in business has ties to money, they make no decision with that as the driving force. They treat their employees like family and want every member of their business family to extend that warmth and service to every customer.

Giving back and supporting the community is also an intrinsic part of how Metro Waterproofing operates. Being active members of the Gwinnett Chamber gives them many opportunities to support community businesses. Other groups that Metro

gwinnettcitizen.com

11

Health, Beauty & Wellness Ready To Move? Watch For These Summer Injuries Once upon a time, starting a new exercise or activity was no big deal.

Well, as long as you had the motivation and the proper gear to do so.

But after you reach a certain age, and you’ve suffered one too many pulled muscles or unexpected injuries, you learn that jumping into a new exercise isn’t quite that simple.

However, just because it takes a little extra time and preparation to start a new activity the right—and safe way—doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t try something different.

After all, who can resist a little friendly competition with a round of golf or an invigorating mountain hike in the refreshing summer weather?

So to help you make the most of the summer months, Adam Cochran, MD, an orthopedic surgeon affiliated with Gwinnett Medical Center, offers key insights and helpful tips on some of the season’s most popular activities.

Swimming: When it’s summer and you live in Georgia, there’s really

12

only one place to be in the midst of a hot, humid day: in a cool body of water. While it seems harmless enough to just put on your swimsuit—and sun protection—and relax the day away, there may be hidden dangers you’re overlooking.

“For instance, jumping into the pool, showing off those swim strokes or playing games in the water can all be tough on your body,” says Dr. Cochran. Some of the most common sports-related injuries include: • Irritation and inflammation of the shoulder: pain and swelling, stiffness and loss of mobility • Lower back muscle strain: pain and stiffness that worsens when moving or bending • Jumping-related injuries: ranging from joint sprains to traumatic brain injury, paralysis or, in rare cases, death Remember these simple tips to stay safe while swimming: • Even if you don’t feel tired, take breaks every hour so that your body,

namely your joints and muscles, can rest.

• Look around at signage to see pool depth, pool rules and locate safety equipment.

• Never leave children unattended, even if there is a lifeguard present.

• Come prepared with water and healthy snacks to keep up energy and prevent dehydration.

Golfing: Even if you don’t consider yourself one of 60 million routine golfers, the lush green courses and 2+ hours spent outdoors in the beautiful weather may be just enough to convince you to finally give it a try.

So whether you’re taking for your first swing of the season or of your life, you’ll want to be sure that you prepare your body for the surprising toll this low-impact sport takes.

“While you may not notice any discomfort in the midst of playing,” explains Dr. Cochran, “spending 4 to 5 hours in a bent position, and making repetitive motions, can cause a number of injuries.” Some of the most

gwinnettcitizen.com

Special photo

common include: • Back pain: sharp or dull pain concentrated in the lower back • Elbow tendonitis: pain outside the elbow, forearm and wrist • Meniscal injuries: swelling and sharp pain in the knee, as well as a locking or giving-way sensation • Patellar tendonitis: pain in the front of the knee To keep your swing and health in good shape, keep these tips in mind: • Spend at least 10 minutes warming up and stretching, focusing on your hands, wrists, forearms, elbows, shoulders, spine and pelvis.

• Don’t do a full round of 18 holes on your first outing. Instead, build-up your endurance by starting with practice at the driving range, followed by 9 holes, then 18.

• Opt for a golf cart and/or a bag carrier to avoid the straining of lifting your heavy bag.

Hiking: With the wide variety of trails in Georgia—shaded, creek side routes; hilly, Appalachian trails; and everything in between—there’s a trail to bring out the happy hiker in all of us.

But it isn’t just finding the ideal trail that you have to worry about.

Even if you don’t pick a challenging route, be mindful of these common injuries:

• Blisters: irritation and discomfort caused by a bubble filled with clear fluid • Ankle sprains: swelling, tenderness and bruising • Muscle cramping: Tightness and pain in the feet, legs and back Before you start your trailblazing, don’t forget to: • Pick out shoes that provide ample support, and break them in.

• Bring along a stabilizer, like a hiking stick or trekking polls.

• Wear clothing and socks that are moisture wicking to prevent chaffing and blisters.

• Pack healthy snacks and ample H20.

• Stop along the way to enjoy the scenery and give your body a chance to recharge.

Healthy summers are powered

by GMC. During the summer months, we all tend to focus a little more on fun and a little less on routine things, like health care. But with a wide array of services at GMC Health Park-Hamilton Mill, you can find all of the expert care you need for this season’s most common illnesses and injuries.

Summer-proof your health by scheduling an appointment today; you can visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ hmill, or call 678-312-8600.

June 2019

June 2019

gwinnettcitizen.com

13

Your Green: Understanding Long Term Care Insurance ents. Of people turning age 65, 52% can expect to use some form of long-term care during their lives. (Source: U.S. Dept of Health and Human Services). As we age, the likelihood of someone facing an illness or injury that requires outside care is great. Care can be financially devastating without adequate coverage, and knowing you have more say about your care gives many peace of mind.

Roger Green, MSFS,CFP ® Green Financial Resources

What is Long Term Care (LTC) and who should have it? LTC is insurance that pays all or part of the care you may need should you become unable to care for yourself due to some form of disability. It is not income replacement, such as would be found under a disability policy.

Many don’t realize long term care is generally not covered by health or disability insurance and there is only very minimal coverage provided by Medicare. In general, long-term care protection makes sense for people with a net worth of somewhere around $150,000$3 million. Those with less will exhaust their assets to qualify for Medicaid; those with more can selffund their care, but may not want to assume the risk.

I recommend Long Term Care (LTC) insurance for many of my cli-

ZONES: 14

1

2

3

How can I get LTC coverage and what will it cost? Although some employers offer group coverage at lower rates, most end up needing individual policies. These policies are not cheap, and waiting until you are older to obtain coverage only increases the premium cost. To give you an idea of how much LTC insurance policy may cost, the average annual premium for a 60-year-old couple is $3,490 (plan with an initial benefit of $150 per day for up to three years and a 90-day elimination period).

Waiting until age 65 results in a 34% increase, on average, to $4,675. (Source: 2018 Long-Term Care Insurance Price Index, prepared by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance).

LTC insurance has continued getting more and more expensive due to an aging population and increased care costs. Policy premiums may increase significantly over time, and the benefits (term of coverage, daily benefits, and inflation riders etc.) available have been reduced or have become more costly. In spite of the rising cost of

protection, the expense of care can be enormous if you don’t have insurance, and it is also growing. The 2018 median cost of annual care ranges from $18,720 for adult daycare up to $100,375 for a private nursing home room. (Source: Genworth CareScout).

To provide alternatives to traditional LTC insurance, newer hybrid products have been created that combine LTC coverage and life insurance/other insurance products. Hybrid policies also may offer a way to keep the cost level over time. Traditional LTC insurance pays out only if an individual has a long-term care need. With hybrid LTC/Life policies, if you died without needing long-term care, the full death benefit would be paid out to your heirs.

However, if there was a LTC need, that expense would reduce the cash value of the policy accordingly. There are pros and cons to the various ways to obtain coverage, and each situation and policy is different.

One of the biggest issues with LTC is that medical underwriting is required to obtain coverage. Many people wait until they have health issues that disqualify them from coverage, or that greatly increase the cost of such coverage.

Those who talk themselves out of LTC coverage often do so because they convince themselves “it will never happen to me” or expect someone in their family will care for them. Around 34

The Gwinnett Citizen gwinnettcitizen.com

million Americans have provided unpaid care to an adult 50 or over in the past 12 months (Source: National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP 2015).

What do I need to ask about a LTC policy?

• What does it take to initiate a claim?

• What is the elimination period or waiting period before benefits are payable?

• What is the benefit that will be paid – how much and for how long?

• Can the premiums increase or are they fixed?

• Does the policy provide for inflation increases to help cover the rising cost of care over time?

• How is the insurer rated? Look for an “A” rating by A.M. Best and “strong”

by Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s.

• What exactly does your policy cover? For instance, if you want home care coverage, will you get to choose your caregiver or will they determine the provider?

How can I make sure I am fully utilizing my benefits? Many people who have LTC policies are not aware of the wide range of benefits available, and as such, underutilize their policies. For instance, even before the elimination period is satisfied, many policies contain benefits to help with care needs, such as providing assistance coordinating caregivers; developing a plan of care, as well as monitoring the care and support services

received. A policy may cover expenses incurred to train an informal (unpaid) caregiver, such as a family member, to care for the covered insured in his or her home at the beginning of a health situation.

A policy may also cover, even prior to the satisfaction of the elimination period, the purchase or rental of supportive equipment that allows the covered person to remain in their home; such as an adjustable bed, a ramp for access in the residence, or even pumps for intravenous injections. Some policies contain a home care benefit that actually provides coverage for home health care aids, adult day care, and hospice care without an elimination period. For these potential benefits alone, it is critical the insurance company be contacted from the very beginning.

A LTC policy can provide much needed protection– no matter what type you choose. If you wish to review your situation and hear our recommendations, please contact us at 770-931-1414 or via www. rogersgreen.com for a no-cost, no obligation consultation on this and any other financial/retirement planning issues on your mind.

Roger S. Green is a Registered Representative affiliated with Cetera Advisors LLC, Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA/SIPC. Roger’s office is at 3700 Crestwood Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096. Visit his website at www.rogersgreen.com.

June 2019 APPROVED:

________ ______ INITIALS DATE June 2019

Wishing the 2018 Miss Gwinnett County queens the best of luck

Photo by Matt Boyd

Miss Gwinnett County Katie Hlavaty.

Photo by Matt Boyd

Miss Gwinnett County Outstanding Teen Sallie Stowers.

Katie will be a graduate of Kennesaw State University in July of this year with a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science and a Minor in Psychology. During her time at KSU, Katie was involved in many on campus organizations and clubs including Zeta Tau Alpha women’s fraternity, Order of Omega Honors Fraternity, KSUCares, KSU for Fit Kids and KSUMiracle.

Her passion for exercise is already put to use by being a group fitness instructor at Twisted Cycle, where she teaches a combination of indoor cycling and HIIT circuits classes. Besides working out in the gym, Katie stays active by hiking all over Georgia and running the ATL BeltLine with her dog!

Katie’s platform, Sweethearts of Our

Heroes, supports not only our nations military, but also their support systems.

She volunteers on Dobbins Air Reserve Base as well as works with the Quilts of Valor Foundation and the ATL-USO. Throughout her time in the Miss America Organization, Katie has loved most the opportunity to be a goodwill ambassador for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and is sure to continue this passion well into the future.

As Miss Gwinnett County, Katie could not be more thrilled to return to the Miss Georgia stage in June! Katie says she is most excited for the On Stage Question portion of the competition and hopes to make the community of Gwinnett County proud!

Sallie is a junior at Dawson County High School. A straight A honor student, she participates in Beta Club, Y-Club, Chamber Singers, and Relay for Life.

She plans to attend the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and major in Chemistry, before attending medical school to become a cardiothoracic surgeon.

She’s been a competitive dancer in clogging and hip hop for 8 years and is in the studio 10-15 hours a week practicing and teaching. She’s won numerous national and regional titles along with “Dancer of the Year” and outstanding performer awards. She has competed at the prestigious World of Dance competition and

also performed for the Atlanta Braves at both Turner Field and SunTrust Park.

Her platform, “American Cancer Society: Relay for Life”, has allowed her many opportunities to volunteer and meet new people, and she was instrumental in the creation of a Relay for Life fundraising team at her high school. She enjoyed working with the administrators on fundraisers such as duct taping the principal to a wall, selling suckers for “Cancer Sucks”, baking cookies, and throwing a pie in a teacher’s face, raising a total of $319 for the fight against cancer.

She is beyond excited to represent the Miss Gwinnett County Board at Miss Georgia’s Outstanding Teen in June!

Miss Gwinnett County: Katie Hlavaty 1st Runner up: Lauren Hunter Interview Preliminary Winner: Katie Hlavaty Talent Preliminary Winner: Katie Hlavaty

Gwinnett’s Little Miss: Gabrielle Brantley 1st Runner up: Kyhlee Hansen 2nd Runner up: Haven Hill 3rd Runner up: Skylar Grace Robinson Photogenic: Skylar Grace Robinson

Miss Gwinnett’s Outstanding Teen: Sallie Stowers 1st Runner up: Sydney Keeling Interview and Talent Preliminary winner: Sallie Stower Gwinnett’s Teen Miss: Abigail Lee Hilliard 1st Runner Up: Anna Claire Hurley 2nd Runner Up: Deliah Haney Photogenic: Ana Claire Hurley

Gwinnett’s Wee Miss: Maisley Harper Hastings 1st Runner up: Corbin Buffun 2nd Runner up: Mia Ellithorpe 3rd Runner up: Lyla Rose Montgomery 4th Runner up: Talayna Britt Photogenic: Corbin Buffun Gwinnett’s Toddler Miss: Bradlee Rae Sorrells 1st Runner up: Rylee Frazier 2nd Runner up: Emerson Leigh McMinn 3rd Runner up: Miya Amor Danford 4th Runner up: Lily Byrd Brogdon Photogenic: Miya Amor Danford and Selah Joy Glass

Gwinnett’s Junior Miss: Sydney Penn 1st Runner up: Zaria Walker Photogenic: Zaria Walker

Baby Miss Gwinnett: Alaina Winters 1st Runner up: Caidyn Lee Benson 2nd Runner up: Mackenzie Kaufman 3rd Runner up: Charlotte Grace Long 4th Runner up: Everly Keppen Photogenic: Matti Jade Palmer

Gwinnett’s Young Miss: Kayli Copeland 1st Runner up: Grace Wolf 2nd Runner up: Gracie Bruce Photogenic: Gracie Bruce Gwinnett’s Young Junior Miss: Jaye Elizabeth Geyer 1st Runner up: Ava Mae Cheek Photogenic: Ava Mae Cheek

ADVERTISING IN THE GWINNETT CITIZEN GETS

Results!

Teen Miss Abigail Hilliard.

Special photo

Special photo

Junior Miss Gwinnett Sydney Penn.

Special photo

Young Miss Gwinnett Kayli Copeland.

That’s why many Gwinnett Citizen advertisers have been with us for 15+ years.

Would you like to reap rewards of connecting to our 60,000+ readers?

Email us at adverstising@gwinnettcitizen.com for a quote today!

.com

gwinnett CITIZEN

.com

gwinnett

Special photo

Young Junior Miss Gwinnett Jaye Geyer.

Special photo

Toddler Miss Gwinnett Bradlee Rae Sorrells.

June 2019

Special photo

Little Miss Gwinnett Gabrielle Brantley.

Special photo

Baby Miss Gwinnett Alaina Winters.

Special photo

Wee Miss Gwinnett Maisley Hastings.

Special photo

Miss Gwinnett Queen Bless’n Edwards.

gwinnettcitizen.com

15

Through the sun room Window

Marlene Ratledge Buchanan Hey Y’all

I do most of my writing in the sun room. It is by far my most favorite room in the house. Until the weather is warm enough, I keep all my house plants in this room. I have orchids blooming most of the winter and greenery everywhere. The best part is looking out the windows. It is a six-sided room that used to be shaded by a 300 year old oak tree. The tree was destroyed by Irma.

We have bird and hummingbird feeders in the yard. There are plenty of birds and squirrels fighting over the bird houses. There are three outside cats in residence: Fluffy Mama, TDH (Tall, Dark & Handsome) and Spats.

We feed them. They will have nothing to do with us. Fiona, our baby deer, is growing up in this yard. Our three crows, Geraldine, Edgar and Vincent, live here, too. We have a large backyard family.

The piece d’ resistance is an outdoor toilet. Yep. An old potty. And I love it.

I have an old outhouse that has cost me a fortune to move and restore.

I don’t care. It is worth every penny.

When we bought this property some 23 years ago there were two old barns and the outhouse on it. It took me years of trying to persuade Snell that I needed that outhouse in the backyard where it could become the centerpiece of a flower bed.

I finally gave up on Snell and called someone to move the outhouse. It was taken apart board by board and each one was labeled with a location number. All the usable boards were assembled into what you see now. We replaced the damaged boards with old harvested pine that we had salvaged years ago. It is a two holer—a sort of deluxe model.

The farmhouse that had originally stood on this site had a granite step

with some initials and the date 1933 chiseled into it. I am assuming the core of the outhouse and the barns may be from around that period of time. Our neighbor did some research and his information indicated some of the out buildings could be older.

We tried to save the farm house but termites and weather had done too much damage. The barns are still standing. Occasionally we nail another board or two on them for strength.

We have surrounded the old barns with azaleas. Azaleas can make anything beautiful for a few weeks of each year.

The flower bed around the outhouse will be iris, day lilies, wild flowers and native plants. I have put out tons of seeds and transferred a lot of iris and day lilies to the beds near it.

Mother Nature has been taking this yard back with a vengeance. I am letting her have most of it. I guess I will try to make her happy and put what she likes in this bed. If all else fails, I’ll put in more azaleas.

On the front of the outhouse is my traditional Hey Y’all greeting. Don’t you just love using the word Y’ALL? So soft. So southern. So comfortable.

That “Hey Y’all” is my general greeting to most everyone I meet. It greets all of our outdoor critters to the back yard where they are safe and enjoyed in their beauty.

This morning I was coming into the sun room with my first cup of coffee, and I heard honking. Not just normal honking but HONKING. I think the sun room windows were shaking. I looked out the back window, and there were two geese. Let me introduce you to our newest family members. Goosie and Gander. Apparently, they love the old outhouse, too.

Hey Y’all. Welcome to the neighborhood.

WWII continued from page 1 tune”, York referred to the D-Day invasion as ‘deadly.’ At the time, York was stationed in Palermo, Sicily, on the opposite coast.

“I was not there, but my brother was so I have a keen interest in the program,” York said of the D-Day invasion.

For York, one of the most important stories to preserve is that of his elder brother. “My brother was a smart guy. We were born on a farm in Indiana, and even before I graduated high school he was gone. When the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941, he volunteered. After that, I saw my brother one more time.”

York paused before continuing, “I have a picture of me and my brother and my mother. If I get choked up talking about it, it’s because that was the last time, I ever saw him.”

While it’s hard to attribute an exact number to the mass causalities of WWII, most agree the death toll was anywhere between 50 and 80 million — about 3 percent of the world’s population in 1940. “As Patton said, War is hell. It was, is, and always will be,” York said.

Among a dwindling class of surviving veterans, York considers it important to remember the significance of that dreadful time.

“If it were not for those men in D-Day, we might be speaking German, or Nipponese today,” York said.

D-Day’s success can partly be attributed to a decoy strategy York refers to as “The Great Deception.”

“Somebody got the idea to fool Hitler, so they manufactured hundreds of rubber tanks, rubber airplanes, rubber jeeps. Everything rubber . . . and they convinced Hitler with these rubber things. Stationed in Dover, England that the invasion was going to occur in Callais, France. So, [Hitler} took 190 tanks away from Normandy and took them up to Callais and stationed them there. If he had not moved those, we would have probably lost 10,000 – 20,000 more troops. He moved them and made the invasion less costly, but not much,” York said.

As for his experience in the war, York was mostly stationed off-land.

One of the amphibious vehicles he’s perhaps better acquainted with than he’d like to be is the LCT, a landing craft that held a crew of 13. Recalling

Photo by Julie Thompson

Bill York and his wife Dot York before his presentation at the Dacula Library.

Photo by Julie Thompson

Bill York with two young members from the audience after his presentation at the Dacula Library. L-R: Conner O’Lenick, 10 Asher O’Lenick, 7, and Bill York.

Photo by Julie Thompson

Bill York and the Dacula Library staff after his presentation on June 6, 2019: L-R: Radsha Ashok, Bill York, and Kelley Williams.

the two years in which he and 12 other men lived on an LCT, York said, “It was like living in a small house.

We were able to cook and get clean water.”

York was first deployed as a passenger on an LST, one of the larger amphibious vehicles, where he had the responsibility of a 20 mm. gun mount. “We were attacked on that voyage,” York recalls.

His ride back to the U.S. was also on an LST. York had expected to see action onboard a boat headed towards Japan, but then, when the Japanese conceded after the nuclear bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, he was never required to sail again.

After the War, York found employment as a furrier, working in major department stores in San Francisco, and then in Atlanta where he met his wife, Dot. After marrying, York settled and began his own fur shop, “York’s Furs”, and the old building remains in business to this day in Buckhead.

In memory of his brother and all those who fought, York spoke to a gathering at Dacula Library on June 6, 2019, sharing his research and experiences of World War II. “He is extremely passionate

Photo by Julie Thompson

Bill York and his granddaughter Christina York at the Dacula Library.

Photo by Julie Thompson

Friends, family and locals thanked Bill York for his stories about WWII.

about this and really has so much knowledge. Our community would do well to come out and hear what he has to say,” said Radsha Shok, from the Dacula branch. The library staff is happy to work with York and hopes to preserve the valuable history he shares.

York has dedicated much of his retired life to researching and studying the War that made him into the man he is today. He has written seven novels and continues to write a monthly column in the Gwinnett Citizen. Those interested in learning more can direct their questions to Sioux2222@gmail.com.

July Adult Programming Events JOURNEY THROUGH JAZZ SMALL BIZ MARKETING SERIES: CREATE MORE PERSONALIZED MESSAGES Registration required: events@ gwinnettpl.org Tuesday, July 2 at 6:00 pm Suwanee Branch 361 Main Street, Suwanee 30024 Join accredited small business consultant, Stephanie Sokenis, to learn about personalizing your email campaigns based on what you know about your customers.

16

VETERANS ROUNDTABLE In partnership with Goodwill Industries of North Georgia Meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month Wednesday, July 10 at 1:00 pm Buford Branch 2100 Buford Highway, Buford 30518 Meet with experts on Veterans resources. Discuss your needs and get real help on filing VA claims, medical care, housing, and job resources.

Newly discharged or senior retirees welcome! For more information, please email cwalker@ging.org.

BACK TO SCHOOL SAFETY Tuesday, July 23 at 2:00 pm Lawrenceville Branch 1001 Lawrenceville Highway, Lawrenceville 30046 Join a Gwinnett County Crime Prevention Police Officer to learn safety tips for you and your family. A small amount of planning can help everyone have a more pleasant and safe back-toschool experience.

5:30 pm - 7:30 pm Five Forks Branch 2780 Five Forks Trickum Road, Lawrenceville 30044 More than a dozen college recruiters want to talk to YOU about their schools. Colleges included are Georgia College, Texas A&M, Perdue University, Columbus State University, Augusta University, University of Kentucky, University of Missouri, and more!

COLLEGE OPEN HOUSE Thursday, July 25 from

HELPING WRITERS BECOME AUTHORS: A FREE WRITER’S

gwinnettcitizen.com

WORKSHOP Saturday, July 27 from 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm Suwanee Branch 361 Main Street, Suwanee 30024 When it comes to writing, every writer is unique. But mistakes made by first-time authors are not unique.

Author and publisher Nury Crawford will discuss the most common mistakes new writers make; how to find a competent, affordable editor; three ways to get your work published; and help you learn more about your writer’s “rights.”

June 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!”

Special photo

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.

Weddings, Engagements & Announcements Engagements, Weddings, Births and Anniversaries are complimentary.

Congratulations Margaret and Marc

Mr. and Mrs. Jim Bronaugh (Shelley) of Lawrenceville are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Margaret Kathryn Bronaugh (Meg) to Marc Sporn, son of Mr. and Mrs. Alex Sporn (Faina) of Lilburn.

Meg is a 2012 graduate of Brookwood High School and a 2016 graduate of Brenau University. She is currently working on her graduate Nurse Practitioner degree at Mercer University and is employed as a Registered Nurse at Emory Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Atlanta in the cardiovascular stepdown unit.

Marc is a 2012 graduate of Brookwood High School and a 2016 graduate of Georgia State. He received his Masters of Taxation from Georgia State in 2017. He is employed by

Special Photo

Marc Sporn and Margaret Bronaugh

Williams Benator & Libby as a Tax Accountant.

Meg and Marc will be married at the Georgia Freight Depot in Atlanta on August 3, 2019 and will be honeymooning in Italy.

Live Local, Shop Local, Support Local Share your community news by emailing sharing@gwinnettcitizen.com.

Email advertising@gwinnettcitizen.com all advertising inquires and business releases. We offer nonprofit discounts.

(770) 963-3699 • gwinnettcitizen.com

CLASSIFIEDS HELP WANTED

NEWS REPORTER

Report, write, review and edit news stories; Search breaking events, research legal issues, cover court proceedings & summarize speeches of governments; Interview people for featured articles in legal & business fields; Determine a story’s focus, length & format; Need some local trips; Req’d Bachelor’s degree in Mass communication, journalism or related field; 40 hrs/ wk; Send resume to Pie America Publishing, Inc. (d/b/a ekoreatimes SE) at 320 Maltbie Industrial Dr., Lawrenceville, GA 30046

June 2019

AFS TECHNOLOGIES HOLDINGS, INC. has F/T Senior Software Developer position in Duluth, GA. Duties incl: Design&develop web apps;ensure quality& responsiveness of apps; Id & devise solns; Maintain code quality, orgn, automate, apply programming procedures; Monitor, respond, diagnose & correct errors in logic & coding. Requires: B.S. in Info Tech, Comp Info Sys, any Engnrng discipline, or related, plus 3 years of exp.

Submit resume by email to careers@afsi.com Incl Job Code AFSLP

CALL FREE TODAY FOR YOUR

RELIEVE Stiffness & Soreness FEEL Lighter & Younger INCREASE & MAINTAIN Range of Motion ENHANCE Physical & Athletic Skills

INTRODUCTORY

STRETCH

WE ACCEPT HSA DEBIT /CREDIT CARDS

SUWANEE | 425 Buford Highway STE 106 B | 678-541-5956 | StretchZone.com | suwanee@stretchzone.com

gwinnettcitizen.com

17

AMAZON continued from page 1 who display ‘grit and strong work ethic.’ Explaining their incentive, she said, “Often veterans have those qualities.”

Having spent years as a Military Logistical Veteran working with government, military and Department of Defense (DOD) freight, Collier was a perfect candidate for the program. He had opened his own logistics company after retiring from the military and jumped at the chance to partner with Amazon upon hearing of the opportunity.

“I’ve been in logistics quite a long time, and I love the challenge [Amazon requires of us] to deliver to customers in one day. So, we’re changing the way we operate,” Collier said of the system that helps customers get their packages quickly and efficiently.

In the seven months since he started, Collier has worked with his wife and relied on Amazon’s support

18

to grow his business and acquire 52 vans. TranMazon now services areas in Lawrenceville, Johns Creek, Buford, Duluth, and parts of North Fulton.

One of Collier’s first jobs out of the military was identifying programs to help veterans transition to the workforce through the Department of Veteran Affairs. And so, when it comes time to hire, Collier tries to make veterans his top pick.

“One of the things I do at least once or twice a week, depending on our needs when it comes to hiring, is I go to the military bases in Georgia.

On those bases, I go to the military transition centers, and I participate in different job fairs.”

With 19 veterans on TranMazon’s payroll, Collier hopes to continue hiring and to provide more benefits to his employees.

“We do healthcare. We do dental. We do vision. All that’s part of

Special photo

Milton Collier is a Military Logistical Veteran. With his business, TranMazon an Amazon Delivery Service Partner, he has hired 19 veterans and services areas in Lawrenceville, Johns Creek, Buford, Duluth, and parts of North Fulton.

our benefits program, and one of the things I’m going to do is I’m going to add a 401(k) plan,” Collier said.

With sound infrastructure and extensive resources, he considers Amazon “one of the best dispatch systems [he’s] seen in a long time,” and Collier expects his employees to uphold that standard.

“We’re changing the game and making sure we’re focused on customers and giving the customers what they want. I tell my drivers to get it right and get it right the first time. You deliver on time,” said Collier.

While he’s not one to take it easy on his guys, the feeling Collier gets

gwinnettcitizen.com

The Collier family. L-R — Alliyah, Milton, Beverly and Alexis Collier.

from helping those who have served the country can only be described as surreal.

“That’s part of my heartbeat — to make sure I’m able to at least provide some level of service to veterans. Every day I wake up, I’m passionate about the veterans. I want

Special photo

to service veterans and figure out another way that I can improve their life. I’m thankful to Amazon for giving me the opportunity to do that,” Collier said.

For more information about Amazon’s DSP program, visit their webpage https://logistics.amazon.com.

June 2019

When and How Often to Review Trusts control of your assets. When you die, your trust becomes irrevocable and is transferred to a designated beneficiary.

Any of the following may impact your trust: • You have more kids or grand kids.

Holly Geerdes

Estate Planning Attorney

You don’t necessarily create a trust and just forget about it. You may revise a revocable trust whenever your circumstances change. Perhaps you want to add a beneficiary. A trust can be revoked or amended at any time as long as you, its creator, are mentally competent. Having an updated trust will reduce the chances that your property will pass through probate.

Common assets placed into a trust include your home, bank accounts and stocks. With a revocable trust, you name yourself as the trustee to remain in

June 2019

• As your progeny age, you get to know them better and you may want to change distributions.

• You become newly married or divorced.

• You change residency status — moving to another state or country, for example.

• There’s a change in financial status, such as a substantial increase in net worth.

• You buy property that needs to be added to a trust.

• You refinance a loan that involves property held in a trust.

• A trustee or beneficiary expires.

• One of your trustees be-

comes seriously ill.

• Your executor or trustee no longer wishes to serve in this capacity.

• New tax laws are passed that impact trust assets.

• You retire.

It makes sense that you will want to address revisions to your trust to reflect domestic matters. Generally, financial advisors counsel scheduling an update every three to five years, with an additional look at your trust’s schedule of assets every five years. After all, laws change all the time.

Another way to look at revisions? A new year is a good opportunity to reflect on any significant changes in your life and to determine whether your plan still meets all your goals.

Time passes, and it’s easy to put your plan in a safety-deposit box and forget it.

Although the hard part of setting up a plan is done, it’s a mistake to file it away and forget about it. Although your plan

gwinnettcitizen.com

is drafted, there will be changes that may lead to adjustments in your estate plan, including acquiring or removing assets.

Estate planning is an important task that everyone should give proper consideration. You should review your trust as your financial life, your family situation and laws change. If you care about your finances, stay current. You even may want to redo your trust entirely.

Local attorney, Holly Geerdes, Esq. provides excellent solutions daily to families who

value protecting the assets and traditions they have worked their entire lives to achieve. Her firm, The Atlanta Estate Law Center, have plans that are generally completed within 6-8 weeks.

Geerdes takes the time to understand each of her client’s needs and desires to continue to take care of their families when they no longer are here or have the competency to do so. Her combination of empathy and expertise are what set her apart. Take the next step and reserve your spot in a no-cost workshop today.

19

20

gwinnettcitizen.com

June 2019