APRIL 2025: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

APRIL 2025 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson

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Loganville

Up Close with the Abbott Animal Hospital, see story on page 5.

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On the Cover:

Abbott Animal Hospital: Aims to Help Pets Live Better and Longer

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff Thanks to advancements in preventative healthcare—such as vaccinations, parasiticides, and sterilization—both pets and humans are experiencing longer lifespans. On average, dogs live between 10 and 15 years, while cats typically reach 9 to 17 years, with an average lifespan of 14 years.

Humans, in comparison, have an average life expectancy of 74.8 years.

However, some individuals and pets surpass these averages, including centenarians like Jimmy Carter and exceptional animals like Bluey and the Portuguese dog Bobi who lived to an impressive 29 years. While genetics contribute to longevity, factors such as regular check-ups, vaccinations, parasiticides, accident prevention, and sterilization play critical roles in extending and enhancing life.

As dogs and cats have become cherished family members, their shorter lifespans compared to humans often lead to a profound sense of loss. For example, Abbott Animal Hospital’s Dr. Oh, had an Australian cattle dog named Belle.

Belle demonstrated remarkable vitality despite being adopted at 13, well into her geriatric years. Losing her after two short years underscored for Dr. Oh the painful reality of the brief lives shared by beloved pets.

The Dog Aging Project represents an innovative initiative that studies dogs as a model for understanding human aging, given their shared environments, lifestyles, and age-related diseases. Discoveries about healthy aging in dogs have the potential to translate into medical advancements for humans, while insights from human aging research can be applied to improve the health and longevity of pets.

Dr. Peter Attia’s book, Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity, highlights strategies for extending healthy lifespans in humans. Among these, maintaining a healthy weight and staying lean are emphasized as key to preventing metabolic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

These practices also reduce the risk of certain cancers and lower the likelihood of cognitive decline. Attia advocates for exercise as a powerful “drug” for longevity, with a high VO2 max—a measure of cardiovascular fitness—being one of the strongest predictors of a longer life. Achieving and maintaining a high VO2 max requires lifelong fitness and healthy muscle tone, which also plays a role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.

Similarly, research indicates that dogs with leaner body conditions have lifespans that are approximately two years longer than those of overweight dogs. Cats face comparable health risks, including arthritis and diabetes, when their weight is not managed. Engaging cats in activities that mimic their natural hunting behaviors, such as using food puzzles or feeding them in small portions, can promote healthier habits and improve their overall well-being.

Pets provide emotional support and depend on their caretakers for health and happiness. In turn, pets often motivate their owners to adopt healthier routines.

For example, Belle inspired habits such as daily walks and healthier eating. Dr. Oh introduced baby carrots into Belle’s meals and also consumed them herself

April 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

as snacks, creating a shared health routine. Despite vision and hearing loss in her later years, Belle, maintained a puppy-like energy, delighting in working for her food and enjoying activities that enriched her quality of life until her final weeks.

The Wellness Center was founded with the mission of promoting longevity and helping pets live healthier lives, inspired by Belle’s story. Pets that reach 18 years of age represent the culmination of years of dedication and good care.

The Center aims to guide and educate pet owners in fostering these habits, ensuring that pets and their families can enjoy long, fulfilling lives—just as Bluey and other extraordinary pets have demonstrated.

More information at http://www.abbottanimal.com, or call 770-921-2121.

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Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

— An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com

Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/Walton area.

Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.

Entire contents copyright 2025 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Publisher/Owner Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com

Cover Photography Emil Powella Photography

Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com

Distribution Coordinator Holly Cooks

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com

Cover Story Feature Writer Kristen Eleveld

Feature Writers Victoria R. Crosby Tana Poncsak Traci Sanders

Contributing Writers Jane Bishop Dr. Jenny Reesman Tanisha Turner Pam Walker

IN THIS ISSUE

5 On the Cover: Abbott Animal Hospital: Aims to Help Pets Live Better and Longer 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 7 Travel Tales: Do You Know How To Pack For Vacation?

9 Learning Lessons: Tips to Help Young Children Learn Through Play 9 April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month: Stay Focused, Save Lives 9 Seen in Gwinnett: Emil’s Photo of the Month 10 Five Tips to Make Your Child’s Birthday the Best Ever 10 One on One: Kickboxing with Lisa 11 Enjoy the Water: Boat Confidently with These Tips 11 Up Close with Books and Brew 12 Pet Perch: Those Pesky Bugs!

12 Seen in Gwinnett: Emil’s Photo of the Month 12 Retirement Matters: Taking on New Hobbies 13 Almost…A Word for Your Day 14 Korean Dance and Music Festival

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From the Publisher:

Ryan’s Remarks

By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

Wow, it is April 2025. Spring is here, and the warm weather is expected to last. In this column, I want to share some things I do and believe in. These are principles that help people achieve success in all aspects of life, and they are based on extensive research as well as decades of real-world experience.

I believe in a relentless work ethic, a passion for excellence, and unwavering grit and perseverance. Success is not a matter of luck or talent, but a result of hard work, dedication, and resilience. There is no substitute for putting in the time and effort required to achieve your goals or your dreams. Success is not “working smart,” but “working hard and smart.” Or, in other words, being both efficient and effective at what we do. I always encourage people to adopt the ‘Keep Pushing Forward’ (KPF) mindset, as I have done for many years. This means digging deep, finding a way to make things happen, never giving up, and displaying grit.

Grit is the deep drive and courage to persist in the face of all types of adversity. Success is not a straight line, but a journey filled with achievements, setbacks, failures, and obstacles. My advice is to work hard but enjoy the ride.

We can achieve this and cultivate our resilience by embracing challenges and learning from our failures. People with more grit are likelier to achieve their goals and reach their full potential. We must be authentic as well. Such authenticity and consistent behavior build integrity, credibility, and respect, which are critical elements for long-term success. We must always be honest, transparent, and genuine in our actions, which are built on trust. And when we make a mistake (which we all do as human beings), we must step up and make it right.

Passion is also vital to success because it is the fuel that drives success.

It’s more than just enthusiasm; it’s an intense desire to achieve your goals and make a meaningful difference. I encourage each of you to discover your passions and pursue them with determination. When people are passionate about their work, they are more likely to work harder, dig deeper, take risks, and overcome obstacles.

Continued on page 13

Travel Tales: Do You Know How To Pack For Vacation?

By Pam Walker

Planning a vacation soon? Great news!

But as you get closer to your trip, do you worry that you won’t be able to fit all your “stuff” into your luggage?

As I travel frequently, I notice things when I check into my flight. Sometimes, it seems that people plan to travel for several months based on the size of their suitcases.

The airlines only allow a checked-in bag to weigh a certain amount. If your bag is over 40 or 50 lbs., you might get charged.

I say might because if your bag is just a little overweight, usually the airline won’t charge you. But if it weighs more than 5 lbs., you could be charged anywhere from $50 to $200.

So, packing light is the answer. When I travel, I try to maximize my outfits with a mix-and-match plan: several tops, one or two pants, one skirt, and a dress for more formal times. As the world has gone completely casual, it is no longer essential to have a fancy outfit for every day. Jeans are de riguer in most places, unless you are in a warmer climate where a skirt or light pants will do.

Even if you are going on a cruise, things are super casual. Gone are the days of formal nights and midnight buffets. Now, just comfy resort wear is perfect.

How do you pack your mix-and-match items? I am a total advocate of packing cubes. I have one for pants and a skirt or dress, one for tops, one for lingerie, a

Continued on page 15

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Learning Lessons: Tips to Help Young Children Learn Through Play

By Tanisha Turner

Children and play go hand in hand.

Playing goes beyond entertainment for young children. It is how they channel their natural curiosity and learn about the world around them. While learning occurs naturally through play, parents and caregivers can help guide play-based learning and extend children’s thinking by getting involved in the fun!

Play, especially make-believe or pretend play, allows children to explore, imagine, create, and interact with others. Makebelieve playtime promotes cognitive, language, physical, social, and emotional development in children, helping to build a strong foundation for future learning.

Creating opportunities for play and helping to guide it can help make children’s learning experiences even more meaningful and can challenge them to think outside the box.

Following are a few play activities and tips for maximizing children’s learning that parents and caregivers can implement at home. Infusing playtime with props, prompts, and questions will allow children to stretch their imaginations.

Also, remember to follow their lead and get down on their level when playing together!

Finger Theater (Ages 0-2) Use your hands and fingers to act out stories while you and your baby build stronger bonds as he develops language skills. This Little Piggy is a great story to act out with your child’s fingers and toes.

Pretend Animals (Ages 1-4) Inspire make-believe time by reading animal books to your child, such as The Runaway Bunny by Margaret Wise Brown, or The Lion and the Mouse by Bernadette Watts. As you read, ask questions about the behaviors and appearances of different animals. After story time, pretend to be your favorite animal by crawling around on your hands and knees and making animal noises.

Grocery Bag Costumes (Ages 2-6) Use large brown grocery bags and paper plates you may have around the house to create costumes for imaginary adventures. Cut out holes in the grocery

Continued on page 11

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month: Stay Focused, Save Lives

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

As April kicks off Distracted Driving Awareness Month, Snellville Police is urging all drivers to stay focused behind the wheel and put down their distractions. Each year, distracted driving claims thousands of lives and causes even more injuries, and this month serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and attention while driving. Within the city limits, the Snellville Police Department has observed a rise in distracted driving-related collisions over the years, coinciding with the increasing popularity of smartphones and social media.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving is responsible for more than 3,000 fatalities annually in the United States. With the rise of smartphone usage, in-vehicle technology, and other distractions, the risk of accidents remains a significant concern.

Key Facts About Distracted Driving: • Texting and driving increases the risk of crashing by up to 23 times.

• Distracted driving includes activities such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, adjusting in-car entertainment or navigation systems, and more.

• Drivers can become distracted in the blink of an eye—taking their attention away from the road for just a few seconds can lead to devastating consequences.

Continued on page 10

Seen in Gwinnett Emil’s Photo of the Month

April 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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Five Tips to Make Your Child’s Birthday the Best Ever

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Your child’s birthday is a special occasion that deserves to be celebrated with joy and creativity. As parents, we strive to create magical memories that will be cherished for years to come. If you’re looking for fresh ideas to make your child’s birthday unforgettable, look no further. Here are five creative tips to help you plan a birthday celebration that will have your child beaming with excitement.

1. Choose a Unique Theme: Setting a theme adds extra fun to any birthday party. Get your child involved in the decision-making process by allowing him or her to pick a favorite theme: a princess tea party, a superhero extravaganza, or an outer space adventure. Let your imagination soar and incorporate the theme into invitations, decorations, games, and even the cake!

2. DIY Decorations and Crafts: Add a personal touch to the celebration by involving your child in DIY decorations and crafts. Create colorful banners, paper streamers, or a photo booth backdrop. Encourage creativity by making handmade party favors or designing a special birthday crown. These homemade touches will make the event feel extra special and showcase your child’s artistic talents.

3. Make It an Interactive Experience: Engage the young guests with interactive activities that will keep them entertained and involved. Consider hiring a face painter or a balloon artist to bring an extra touch of magic. Set up activity stations where children can decorate cupcakes, make their own crafts, or participate in a themed treasure hunt. The more interactive the experience, the more memorable it will be for everyone involved.

4. Plan Unique Games and Challenges: Take traditional party games to the next level by adding a unique twist. Organize a scavenger hunt with clues about your child’s interests, or arrange a mini Olympics with fun challenges and prizes. You could also set up a game station where children can try their hand at carnival-style games or host a friendly talent show where everyone can showcase their unique skills. The key is to keep the activities engaging and inclusive for all ages.

One on One: Kickboxing with Lisa

By Victoria R. Crosby

Lisa Boggs, a seasoned kickboxing coach with a black belt in karate and a background in psychology, is dedicated to empowering individuals through personal development, physical fitness, and self-defense education. Her comprehensive approach combines elements of kickboxing, cardio, core, strength, stretching, and personal safety training, recognizing the holistic importance of mental and physical well-being.

Offering private, one on one, and groups classes, family and home school options, Lisa tailors her instruction to meet diverse needs. She also provides specialized support for post-partum and menopausal women, recognizing the unique challenges and benefits of physical activity during these life changes.

Lisa discovered her passion for martial arts while seeking an active and fun way to bond with her young children. What started as a family shared activity evolved into a personal journey that would change her life.

“Exercising releases endorphins which have mood lifting and stress reducing effects,” Lisa said. “Even a short burst of activity can leave you feeling more positive and energized.”

Lisa earned her Black Belt at Dynamic Karate USA and eventually became an instructor there. When the owners sold the studio and moved out of state, Lisa decided to follow her passion for martial arts and offered classes in kickboxing in her home studio to other young mothers. Recognizing the unique challenges that many mothers face, Lisa created a space where women can bring their children if necessary and could prioritize their health and safety without the distractions or pressures of a traditional gym.

She also highlights the importance of stretching for improved flexibility,

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5. Capture the Memories: Don’t forget to document the special moments throughout the celebration. Hire a professional photographer or set up a DIY photo booth with props and costumes for guests to enjoy. Create a memory jar where everyone can write a favorite memory or wish for the birthday child. You can also create a personalized photo album or scrapbook as a keepsake filled with pictures and heartfelt messages from the guests.

With these five creative tips, you’re well on your way to planning a birthday celebration that your child will remember for years to come. Remember, the most critical element is the love and care you put into making this day extraordinary. Tailor the celebration to your child’s unique interests, engage the imagination, and focus on creating a joyful and inclusive experience for all. Embrace the joy and wonder of childhood, and enjoy every moment of celebrating your child’s special day!

And from all of us here at OUR TOWN... happy birthday to your little one!

May the day be filled with laughter, love, and beautiful memories.

reduced muscle soreness, injury prevention, faster recovery, better circulation, and enhanced relaxation and posture. Lisa’s inclusive approach fosters a welcoming environment where all individuals can feel safe, strong, and valued. She ensures that everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, can benefit from her classes and feel resilient and empowered.

Beyond fitness Lisa is deeply committed to empowering people through self-defense. As a petite woman, less than five feet tall, she has firsthand experience of dangerous situations where she felt unsafe. Her own journey and experiences have instilled in her a desire to help others develop the skills and mindset necessary to protect themselves and build confidence and self-esteem.

In addition to her role as kickboxing coach, Lisa actively contributes to the community. She serves as a board member at the Friendship Forest Academy, co-founded by her kickboxing alumnae, Jennifer Hickey, and Amanda Green, and has volunteered as a kickboxing instructor and substitute teacher at the school for neurodivergent students.

Lisa operates a home-based kickboxing studio in the Mountain Park neighborhood of Lilburn.

You can find more info on her on Facebook at Kickboxing with Lisa, on Instagram at kickboxing_ with_ lisa, and on her Google business page at Kickboxing with Lisa.

Distracted Driving Awareness Continued from page 9 What You Can Do: 1. Put Your Phone Away: If you must make a call or send a message, pull over safely first. Keep your phone out of reach to avoid the temptation.

2. Focus on the Road: Avoid using in-car tech systems while driving. Set up your GPS or playlist before you start driving.

3. Be a Role Model: Encourage others, especially young drivers, to stay focused and avoid distractions while driving.

The Snellville Police Department is committed to reducing distracted driving accidents through education, outreach, and support for safer driving habits.

This month, Snellville Police is partnering with local authorities, schools, and community groups to host events and campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.

Throughout the month, the Snellville Police will conduct proactive traffic enforcement details to combat the dangers of distracted driving. Join us in the effort to reduce distracted driving and keep our roads safe. Together, we can make a difference.

More information at https://www.snellville.org/police-department

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Enjoy the Water: Boat Confidently with These Tips

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Spending time on the water with your crew this summer? There’s no better place to be!

Boating, a longstanding American pastime, has seen a surge in popularity as millions of people recognize it gives you the freedom to explore and is one of the most fun, relaxing ways to escape stress on land. Plus, studies show being on the water improves health and wellness. It makes sense why a record number of newcomers purchased their first boat over the past two years.

Whether you’re new to boating or an experienced captain still navigating best practices for enjoying a day on the water, remember it should be fun, not intimidating. Understanding the basics on what to do and what to bring will help make you a safer, more confident boater while creating lasting memories.

“If you are looking for fun and adventure this summer, on the water with friends and family is where it’s at,” said Ellen Bradley, senior vice president of Discover Boating. “There’s nothing more enjoyable and relaxing than a day on a boat with your favorite people. Before you take the helm, learning the basic boating essentials will help ensure a fun and safe experience for all involved.”

Below are some tips from Discover Boating to improve your nautical know-how in no time to ensure the best possible experience on (and off) the water.

1. Learn the rules of the water. It is important to have the boating information and certifications you need to be a safe and responsible boater. By consulting Discover Boating’s safe boating tips, developing a safety checklist and obtaining the necessary training or certificates in your state, you not only protect yourself and your passengers but also other boaters on the water.

2. Take a class. Take the helm and become a confident boater. Sign up for a boating lesson to hone your powerboating, sailing, or watersports skills by mastering the basics while having fun along the way. On-water training courses, watersports camps, youth boating programs, and more are offered across the U.S. 3. Visit a boat show. Boat shows are an ideal place to immerse yourself in the boating lifestyle and provide a unique opportunity to meet face-to-face with – and shop – a variety of boat dealers and marine product companies all under one roof. Most boat shows also offer educational opportunities (often complimentary) whether you’re a seasoned skipper looking to improve your

skills or a new boater looking for tips on everything from boating safety to navigation and boat operation. Find a boat show in your area.

4. Look for the seal of approval. When shopping for a boat, whether at a boat show, online, or at a dealership, check to make sure it is NMMA Certified. NMMA Certified boat and trailer manufacturers have been independently inspected to ensure they meet strict industry standards for safety and construction, as well as all federal regulations. Look for the NMMA Certified sticker near the helm of a boat.

5. Preserve your boat with proper maintenance. Like cars, there are a few areas that require regular maintenance by the owner, and a few areas that require maintenance at routine intervals, which most leave to the professionals.

Prepare a boat maintenance checklist that covers everything from engine needs to cleaning to electrical systems to ensure your boat has a long lifespan.

Enjoy your next boating adventure and be sure to use the social media hashtag #SeeYouOutHere to share your favorite moments on the water. (BPT)

Learning Lessons Continued from page 9 bags to create vests, and decorate your costume pieces using paint, crayons, and markers. Let your child lead as you act out different scenarios while wearing your costumes!

Creating opportunities for children to use their imagination, offering guidance, and participating in the fun is a great way for parents and caregivers to nurture children’s development – and you’ll enjoy quality time together along the way!

Tanisha Turner is the Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway.

More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com or call 770-5130066.

Up Close with Books and Brew

By Victoria R. Crosby

When Irene Bethelmie retired after forty years in the medical field, she was pondering what the next chapter of her life would bring. Her daughter Quinelle and her boyfriend Nate, who both have law degrees, started to discuss the idea of a book shop, and they all partnered to create Books and Brew, a “home away from home where people can socialize, work, and find comfort throughout the day into the evening.”

Located at 4316 Lawrenceville Highway in Tucker, Books and Brew serves wine, beer, coffee, and tea, and delicious stews, with a choice of vegetable, beef, lamb, or chicken stew. The lamb stew is made with Guinness, which, as I grew up in England, is my favorite.

Quinelle is also an artist whose paintings hang on the walls and are for sale.

Although she has had no formal art training since high school, her artistic side is noticeably evident in her paintings, her poetry, her cooking, and the overall stylish design of the space with its tables, comfy chairs and couches, and a spectacular lighting fixture as you enter.

The shelves are filled with books that cover many subjects for adults and children, and include new and used books. Frequent events include books signings, a book club, and authors talking on popular topics.

“Out Loud with Beck” is an open mic night every other Friday from 7 p.m. until 9:30 p.m., and is led by poet Beck Duffield. She reads work from her book Letters from the Front, and invites others to read their own work or by their favorite poets. A diverse group of poets attend each session. Some are experienced with books of their own to sell, and some have never read in public before, but are encouraged and applauded for their courage. I have read inspirational, humorous, and British themed poetry from my own poetry books, and have

April 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

found that the people who attend are also an appreciative audience of my three political, satirical, poetry books. My book of short stories Close Encounters of the Elvis Kind is now available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

Both Quinelle and Irene shared their poetry with the group in between serving food and drinks and selling books. Poets and writers of all experience levels are welcome to come and share some of their work.

Stop in and feel free to browse while enjoying a drink of your favorite brew, whether it’s wine, beer, coffee, or tea. You’ll be welcomed by Irene, Quinelle, or Nate, and possibly all three.

More information at www.booksandbrew.net or Instagram and Facebook @thebooksandbrew

PAGE 11

Pet Perch: Those Pesky Bugs!

By Dr. Jenny Reesman

Now that the weather is getting warmer and we are spending more time outside, bugs and critters come to the forefront of our minds. The mosquitos, ticks, and fleas that may have been overlooked during the winter months are now a concern. But did you know that those pesky bugs are active as long as it is over freezing? Yep, and for Georgia that means year-round.

Sure, it snowed this year, twice actually.

But within a few days into the 40s it went, and the snow-covered ground was mere puddles and soggy earth. Heartworm disease, which can be fatal in dogs and causes damage to the heart in a mere matter of months, is transmitted by mosquitos (just one bite!). Lyme and Erlichia are a few diseases transmitted by ticks. Fleas carry disease on top of making your pet (and you!) scratch and itch. Living in Georgia means year-round protection for our fourlegged friends (and yes, even those indoor only cats!) is so important.

Mosquitoes can be seen indoors, and fleas and ticks hitchhike in on pant legs.

So even those pets that stay inside are still at risk. The cost of prevention is low compared to the cost of treatment, and a lot of diseases leave lasting effects, even once the parasites have been killed.

Monthly flea and tick protection also protect against intestinal parasites (aka worms that live in your pet’s stomach and intestines). This not only protects your pet, but also protects you and your family as some of these worms can infect people! Year-round prevention is of key importance to your pets, so talk to your vet about what product works best. Now let’s get outside and enjoy the spring weather!

Dr. Jenny Reesman is the owner of Brookwood Animal Hospital. More info at https://www.brookwoodanimal.com/

Retirement Matters: Taking on New Hobbies

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Retirement should be relaxing, not dull. Taking on new hobbies can keep your mind sharp and body vital as you age. Here are five ways to stay active in your golden years: 1. Join a gym: Joining a gym is one of the easiest ways to ensure you perform a mix of strength training and cardiovascular exercise. Doing both will help keep your bones and muscles strong, as well as your heart and lungs fully functional. Don’t forget to add yoga and stretching to promote balance and agility. If a gym is out of reach, explore other nearby opportunities to work up a sweat. Many towns and cities offer free and budget-friendly, community-based exercise programming.

2. Play music: Numerous cognitive and emotional benefits are associated with playing music. Whether you’re a beginner just looking to pick up the basics

Continued on page 14

Seen in Gwinnett Emil’s Photo of the Month

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Almost…A Word for Your Day

By Jane Bishop

What image does the word “almost” bring to mind? Perhaps it is an unfinished project, a near-miss, or something you didn’t quite accomplish. For many of us, “almost” stirs feelings of falling short— like failure or inadequacy. But what if we reframed it?

I have plenty of “almost” moments in my mental gallery. One that stands out happened during my junior year of high school in Brooklyn, New York. I was on the school bowling team, and we competed in a major tournament at Madison Square Garden. I almost bowled a perfect game of three hundred. I almost scored high enough to have my name engraved on a plaque. I almost placed in the top five. Our team almost finished in the top five. I missed those markers by exactly six points in all three categories.

It would have been easy to let that number haunt me and our team, but we chose to rewrite the narrative. On the subway ride from Manhattan back to Brooklyn, we embraced in a quirky way the number 6 as a symbol of our effort.

We boarded the sixth car, counted six steps to a door, and each of us sat in a sixth seat. Instead of dwelling on what was not achieved, we celebrated what we had accomplished and set our sights on improving for the next tournament.

Embracing “almost” was evidence of our resilience. It fueled our determination to keep going and accomplish a better outcome at the next tournament.

As you think of success, do not underestimate the power of “almost.” It is an indicator of your progress, resilience, and determination. It signifies that you are on the verge of achieving your desired outcome and can propel you forward to reaching success. Consider one of your “almost” moments.

Where is your focus? Does it hold you back, or does it motivate you to move forward? How do you embrace “almost” as an indicator of the progress of your journey? “Almost” is not the end of your progress story. It can be the beginning of a new challenge, a steppingstone to growth, or a reminder to celebrate what you have accomplished. Take a moment and ask yourself: What can I learn from my “almost”?

What steps can I take to move forward?

How can I shift my focus to what I have gained instead of what I have missed?

You are capable of turning “almost” into achieving success. Keep going… you have this!

More information at www.janebishoplive.com.

Ryan’s Remarks Continued from page 7 One more key factor to success is perseverance. I think of perseverance as the will to succeed. It emphasizes that success requires a long-term commitment and a willingness to persevere through both good and challenging times.

As people develop, they begin to set realistic goals, create a plan of action, and stay focused on their objectives. It is a fact that people with perseverance are more likely to achieve their dreams and make a positive impact in the world.

So, here it is – my thoughts on success. However, we can never lose sight of one thing, perhaps the most important thing: the people around us are vital.

We must always start by helping others achieve success, because we can reach our goals by helping those around us reach theirs. Finally, I would like to thank our fantastic community and partners for all their support. You all play a paramount role in our success. Also, and as always, thanks for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

April 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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Korean Dance and Music Festival

By Victoria R. Crosby

A Korean friend of mine invited me to a performance of Korean Traditional Dance at the Gas South Arena, presented by the Korean Culture & Arts Association. I was very impressed with the performance, which I thoroughly enjoyed. It included dance, drumming, singing, juggling, and comedy. The performers wore authentic, colorful and sometimes sparkly costumes, as the professionals and students performed the fan dance, the lion mask dance, and other traditional dances. The lovely scenery backdrops also changed with each performance—some showing traditional buildings or pink blossoming trees.

Michelle Kang, CEO of Asian American Pacific Islanders (AAPI) Outreach and Engagement, welcomed everyone in the Korean language. Jayden Lee, a student from John’s Creek High School, was her co-MC in English. AAPI was founded in 2022 with a mission to celebrate and showcase the various cultures to build an inclusive community to respect and honor each other’s culture.

The printed program was in both Korean and English. Michelle Nam, President of the Korean Culture and Arts Association, wrote: “We strive to share Korean Culture and Arts in the U.S., offering dance instruction and fostering cultural exchange to inspire local youth. Through music competitions and scholarship programs, we support the next generation and preserve Korea’s cultural heritage. Our vision is to expand global cultural exchange and promote Korean culture worldwide. We will continue spreading and teaching Korean traditions, building harmony along the way.”

Mikyoung Kim, the director of the Traditional Dance Academy wrote in the program: “Korean traditional music and dance are a precious cultural heritage.

Retirement Matters Continued from page 12 or a seasoned musician with hopes of performing in public, you can equip yourself to sound amazing with a high-quality instrument like the CT-S1-76 keyboard from Casio. It features 76 full-size keys and an upgraded 13-watt bass-reflex stereo speaker system with a surround effect, providing incredible sound quality and a dynamic playing experience.

3. Start a book club: It’s always more fun to read books when you can discuss them with friends. From tackling the classics to diving into non-fiction works that will challenge your perspective to enjoying some easy, breezy beach reads, the other members of the group must have the same reading goals as you. So do a little legwork in advance to ensure everyone is on the same page.

4. Number crunch: You don’t have to be in school to take up math as a hobby. There are plenty of recreational mathematicians of all ages who enjoy crunching numbers to work puzzles, compete in games, and uncover patterns in the real world.

5. Learn a language: Learning a new language not only creates new neural pathways in the brain, but it can also be just the motivational ticket you need to visit that bucket list destination you’ve finally been dreaming of. While formal lessons are great, you can help ensure your skills truly progress through conversation.

By taking on new hobbies and expanding your interests, you can create a

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As director of Korean Traditional Dance Academy, I aim to share their beauty and foster cultural exchange. This performance brings together people from diverse backgrounds. The passion of African American students for traditional arts is inspiring, and our scholarship program seeks to provide more opportunities for students. With performances by students from South Korea and a K-pop stage by American college students, we celebrate tradition and modernity. I hope this event connects Korean traditional arts with the world.”

Kihwan Kim, president of the Federation of Korean Associations of Southeast USA offered his congratulations to the participants in Korean and English in the program and wrote in part; “Korean traditional dance and music beautifully expresses our history and cultural heritage. Your dedication to sharing these traditions with the community is truly inspiring. I hope this festival will highlight the richness of Korean culture and bring people together to celebrate its beauty. May this festival continue to serve as a bridge between cultures, inspiring and uniting people through the power of art.”

There were twelve separate performances including professionals and students from local highs schools and the National High School of Korean Arts.

The performers included students from the Arabia Mountain High School, Gwinnett County High School, Seoul Gukak Research Institute, Nan Ta, and Lucky 7, students at Kennesaw State University.

The program also listed the many businesses and individuals whose support helped to make the event possible. It was wonderful to see African Americans and Koreans performing together, hip hop, K-pop, and traditional Korean dances. I encourage everyone to see and enjoy this event next year. You won’t be disappointed!

More information at www.atlaapiheritage.com. retirement that is active, adventurous, and beneficial for your body, mind, and soul. (StatePoint)

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Travel Tales Continued from page 7 cosmetics bag (a small one), and only two pairs of shoes. I wear my tennis shoes through the TSA lines as most don’t have any metal in them, and then I pack flats or heels for those special occasions.

Guys don’t have to worry much, as their wardrobes are much simpler than the ladies’, so one or two cubes are fine for them.

The last rule of thumb is to roll things. Lay them flat, then fold them carefully, smoothing as you go. Then, roll them and put them in the cube. If done correctly, they rarely wrinkle when you get there.

So, these are my rules of the road for people like me who are always on the go. Try it—it’s simple and way easier for a short or long vacation!

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel advisor. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com

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Investment Advisor Representatives offering securities and advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial and Cetera Advisors are not affiliated. Green Financial Resources 2014-2023 Best of Gwinnett Awards issued by Gwinnett Magazine. Winners chosen by a combination of readers’ votes and editors’ input across more than 20 business sectors.

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April 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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