Up Close with Stars and Pipes Plumbing, see story on page 5.
Determining when you can retire
Mortgage and real estate decisions
Retirement plans for your small business
Saving more & decreasing debt
College planning
Investment allocation for long term
growth potential
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By Kristen Eleveld
There are a few home repairs you really don’t want to DIY. Instead, you call the experts. And for people in the Gwinnett community who are experiencing a plumbing problem, they call the best in the business: Stars and Pipes Plumbing.
Founded by U.S. Army veteran and current Army Reserve Sergeant First Class Sean Nelson, this family-owned business has quickly become a trusted name for clients who need a plumbing expert 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
“After serving in the Army, I was looking for a career where I could continue making a difference and work with my hands,” said Sean. “Plumbing gave me that opportunity.”
Following his active duty service, Sean completed a five-year apprenticeship with Local Union 519 in Miami, Florida, gaining extensive experience in commercial plumbing.
“It was intense, hands-on work that gave me a solid foundation,” he explained.
Over time, Sean discovered a growing passion for residential plumbing, especially the personal connection it brought to customers.
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Sean relocated to Georgia with his wife and children. That move gave him the chance to turn his long-time vision into reality.
“We wanted to build something of our own that was rooted in integrity, service, and family values,” said Sean.
That vision became Stars and Pipes Plumbing.
In addition to running the business, Sean still proudly serves in the U.S. Army Reserves and currently holds the rank of Sergeant First Class. He also works as a plumbing instructor at Fort Jackson in South Carolina, training the next generation of skilled tradesmen and women.
“Staying connected to the Army while teaching has been incredibly rewarding,” said Sean. “It keeps me sharp and reminds me why doing every job with excellence matters.”
With over a decade of plumbing experience and leadership skills from the military, Sean built Stars and Pipes Plumbing to deliver not only high-quality work, but also unmatched customer service.
“I developed a real passion for solving problems and helping families feel
confident and safe in their homes,” he said. “That’s ultimately what led my wife and me to start this company—to bring quality, integrity, and a personal touch to every service call.”
So, what kind of services do they provide? Practically everything. From water heater installations and drain cleaning to faucet repairs and emergency solutions, Stars and Pipes Plumbing is ready for any job. They’ll even help homeowners figure out why their water bill suddenly spiked—and offer smart, budget-friendly ways to bring it back down.
But what really sets them apart is their approach. Sean and his team are known for clear communication, upfront pricing, and honest work.
“We are committed to doing business the right way—with honesty, precision, and a personal touch,” said Sean. “As a veteran and family-owned company,
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Publisher/Owner
Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com
Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com
Editor
Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com
Cover
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
In a world where uncertainties abound, and noise and chaos often drown out the authentic voices, it is crucial to pause, reflect, and recognize the values at the heart of genuine relationships and ultimate success. This means working hard to build the indispensable virtues of honesty, authenticity, integrity, and trust. We should not HATE, but indeed we should HAIT.
Honesty, the unwavering beacon of truth, is essential in building meaningful relationships. When we embrace openness, we create an atmosphere of transparency where open communication can flourish. Honest conversations build trust and enable us to navigate conflicts with empathy and understanding. By valuing honesty, we foster an environment that encourages growth and fosters resilience, laying the groundwork for success.
Authenticity, the art of being genuine to oneself, is a powerful force that attracts like-minded individuals and paves the way for impactful connections. When we have the courage to embrace our authenticity, we inspire others to do the same, leading to a harmonious community where everyone’s unique strengths can shine. Embracing our true selves fosters an environment of acceptance and inclusivity where diversity of thought and experience can thrive.
Integrity serves as the bedrock upon which strong relationships are built. It embodies the essence of being true to oneself and others, fostering an environment of mutual respect and reliability. When we act with integrity, we demonstrate our commitment to our values and principles, even when faced with challenges or temptations. This unwavering dedication inspires trust in others, forming a solid foundation for lasting connections.
Trust, the delicate thread that weaves our relationships together, is success’s lifeblood. Trusting relationships are built on integrity, honesty, and authenticity. When we trust one another, we can collaborate more effectively, embrace
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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 knowhow 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 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.
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By Bill Crane
It has been a few years since my last trip to the Florida panhandle, where our family had a vacation home on St. George Island, which offered many incredible charms, including houses with views of both the Gulf of Mexico and Apalachicola Bay.
On the other end of the North American Free Trade Zone, I love the views along the Canadian border, across the many Great Lakes, and the incredible sights of Niagara Falls. Toronto is one of my favorite places to visit and travel to on the planet. It seems like just yesterday that our closest neighbors and allies were much like extended family. At present, those warm relations, at least between the nations and governments, are quite a bit frostier.
In their first face-to-face meeting at the White House this past May, new Canadian Prime Minister, Mark Carney, reportedly said to President Donald Trump, “Having met with the owners of Canada...it’s not for sale and it won’t be for sale ever.”
President Trump tends to use a negotiating tactic called anchoring. Enter into contract negotiations. Declare you will only be satisfied by receiving the universe and at least one sun to meet your needs fully. Repeat the declaration at every opportunity. Stun your negotiating partners and potential partners with the boldness of the ask. Continue this posture for a period of time. Negotiating partner eventually comes forward, assuming there are mutual needs for a deal to take place, and says, “How about we give you a planet?”
Border communities and paired cities— such as Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Canada, Vancouver, British Columbia and Seattle, WA, Niagara Falls Ontario and Niagara Falls, New York, or even the town of Beebe Plain, Canada, which straddles the U.S./Canadian border—know all too well how closely intertwined the two peoples, regions, and economies are. Canada has a population of nearly 37 million, ten provinces, and three territories. The bulk of Canada’s population lives south of Seattle and is clustered on the U.S. border, along the Great Lakes and North American waterways and canals, which form much of the physical divide.
Thanks in part to the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), a trade treaty and act of Congress in 1994, Canada and Mexico, by a healthy measure, are our largest trade partners. Canada purchased $356.5 billion of American goods and exports during 2022, accounting for 17 percent of total U.S. exports. Mexico was a close second at $324.3 billion, with China a distant third at $150.4 billion. Only one European nation made the top five, with the United Kingdom at $76.2 billion, with the U.S. having a trade surplus with Great Britain, meaning they are one of the few trade partners who BUY more U.S. goods than we purchase from them.
Alaska and Hawaii were originally both territories of the United States. Today, the U.S. has governing, national defense, and funding/trade alliances in place with fourteen U.S. territories and nation-states, including Puerto Rico (where residents are also U.S. citizens), American Samoa, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Missouri entered the U.S. as a territory (the Missouri Compromise), and Texas entered our union as a commonwealth. As a U.S. commonwealth, Canada could maintain its complete independence and sovereignty, trade borders and tariffs could be eliminated, and national defense and energy/rare earth minerals agreements could be updated and finalized.
Having Canada become a state is fraught with logistical and legal challenges, well beyond opposition in the Great White North. Canada would overnight become second only to California in terms of state population. That new state would enter the Electoral College as well as have two U.S. Senators and a Congressional delegation roughly equivalent in size to California (52 U.S. House members). And while the Canadian Maple leaf and flag are predominantly Red and White, the population and politics of the majority of Canadian provinces, particularly the three with 86% of Canada’s population (Ontario,
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By Jenna Cooper
Victoria Crosby is an author, poet, mother, radio host, teacher, and — perhaps above all else — an Elvis fan.
In her latest book, Close Encounters of the ELVIS Kind, Crosby draws from her own lifelong connection to Elvis Presley to weave together education and narration as fictional characters encounter factual moments from his life.
A resident of Stone Mountain, Georgia, since 2021, Crosby was born and raised in England in a household of musicians and began writing poetry as a little girl, inspired by the poems her father often wrote for special occasions. She didn’t catch the wave of Elvis fandom until the 1960s, but soon fell in love with his music and movies.
“In many ways,” Crosby said, “Elvis inspired me to come to America.”
Enamored with American music, films, and culture, Crosby moved to Long Island, New York, at the age of 19. There she worked as a writer, radio show host, music festival manager, and teacher — roles that all seemed to lead to uncanny Elvis-related encounters of their own.
Her inspirational poetry landed her a guest spot on a local radio show, Oasis, which led to her role as a co-host and, ultimately, host. The name of her retired co-host? George Pressley.
As the manager of a local outdoor music festival, Crosby tapped into her family’s musical roots, hiring the lineup of musicians that included Elvis tribute bands and even Elvis’ first bass guitarist, Scotty Moore.
After moving to Georgia, she began using her experience as an educator to help audiences discover — or remember — lesser-known facts about the global superstar, like his role in saving the USS Arizona Memorial, his generous support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or his honorary citizenship in Budapest, Hungary.
Crosby’s natural writing style as a poet usually takes the form of rhyming verse, but this work of prose is her first published departure from that style.
“I decided that if I was going to write short stories, I wanted to write about Elvis,” Crosby said. “They say write what you know.”
Her book brings together a collection of six fictional short stories, all inspired by real people, places, or events in Elvis’ life. From a story set in Elvis Presley Park in Budapest to an encounter with Elvis’ mother in Tupelo, Mississippi,
Crosby hopes that audiences will learn something new and perhaps connect with something that resonates in their own lives.
At the end of the book, readers can find a list of resources related to elements of the story or Elvis’ legacy, including websites and phone numbers for St. Jude’s, the Circle G Foundation, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and more.
The book is dedicated to her late friend, Will Hutchins, who appeared in two Elvis movies and whom she bonded with at a radio conference over their mutual admiration for the King.
“According to Will,” Crosby said, “after meeting Elvis, life went from black and white to technicolor.”
Close Encounters of the ELVIS Kind is available in paperback at Books & Brew in Tucker, Georgia, as well as hardback and e-book through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
By Pam Walker
Wow….can you believe it? Summer is almost here! This year has flown by so far! Have you made your vacation plans by now? I hope so!
Europe is filling up more than ever this summer, and if you are planning a last-minute trip to Italy – good luck. It is full! There have been horrendous pictures on the internet of crowds around the Trevi Fountain in Rome and St. Marks Square in Venice. Hotels, both large and small, are charging outrageous prices, too.
Other places in the world are busy as well. It is a magical year for Scandinavia. Everyone wants to go to Norway. My friend Jan, who owns a tourism company in Oslo, says he has never been busier.
Africa and South America, both continents in the Southern Hemisphere where in our summer it is their winter, have also been slammed. Safari space is very limited, and in Patagonia in southern Argentina and Chile, hotels are full. Asia, too, is experiencing unprecedented tourism, and Japanese tour companies have stopped taking tour requests through October. All in all this year’s travel boom is alive and well. So again, if you have not made your plans yet, contact your travel advisor as soon as possible to get to where you want to go.
Don’t forget the USA. You won’t find space in Orlando as the home of the Mouse is always on everyone’s list to visit. Plus, Orlando is building new attractions and theme parks every year. There are six major parks there now, and two new ones are being built as I write this.
Don’t forget our national parks! We have some homegrown beauties across the USA. Go to their website (nps.gov) before you travel as tickets to enter the parks are now required at quite a few of them.
One final word – always remember to be patient and kind when you travel. Travel is the best way to share worldwide peace, and we learn so much from each other when we travel to new places. Enjoy your summer travels!
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vulnerability, and achieve greater heights. Trust empowers us to take risks, knowing we have a support network that believes in us and our aspirations.
In a world often marked by skepticism and cynicism, it is vital to remember that the HAIT words hold immense power. They are not mere buzzwords, but guiding principles that can transform lives and communities. By embodying these virtues, we can foster deeper connections, nurture genuine relationships, and create a ripple effect that resonates far beyond our immediate circles. When we cultivate such values, we create a positive and nurturing ecosystem where success becomes inevitable. Let us strive to exemplify these values not only in our personal lives, but also in our professional endeavors. Let us lift each other, celebrate each other’s victories, and champion the power of these virtues in all our interactions.
Remember, every action we take, no matter how small, has the potential to make a difference. Let us create a world where success is not measured solely by material gain, but by the positive impact we make on the lives of those around us. Together, let us forge a community that stands tall on the pillars of these critical ideas in this article.
These are some thoughts I wanted to share with our fantastic community. Thank you for supporting us and all the small business partners who make a difference in our lives daily. They all operate in a manner built on trust. Finally, and as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Whether you’re day-tripping with family, taking a week-long vacation with pals, or doing a cross-country solo drive, summer road trips can be long and exhausting. The good news? There are plenty of ways to improve the experience.
Great Snacks: Road trip snacks are non-negotiable! They make car rides of any length brighter, keep drivers and passengers happy, and fuel them for the miles ahead. It’s best to have a mix of snack options that are easy to eat in the car or at roadside stops. Carrot sticks, pretzels, and nuts make great savory choices.
For an easy, on-the-go, fruity, and juicy snack, try Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms. Now juicier, Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms are made in six delicious fruit flavors, making them a great road trip snack. Crafted with care, they are made with real fruit juice and colors and flavors from real sources.
Refreshing Breaks: Having a great time shouldn’t come at the expense of your or your traveling companions’ comfort. Beyond typical bathroom breaks and pit stops, consider visiting points of interest along the route.
Ideally, these detours shouldn’t add too much additional mileage to your odometer or time on the road, but instead, be designed to break up the trip into manageable chunks. From a natural landmark to a beautiful view, the experiences will emotionally and physically rejuvenate your party for the next leg of the journey.
Games and Music: Entertainment can help the miles pass more quickly. If you’re driving alone, prep a great playlist or download some audiobooks or podcasts before the trip so you aren’t distracted by flipping through your device while driving. Try giving each hour of the journey a different theme – such as songs of a specific genre, from a particular decade, or by letting passengers take turns being the DJ.
You can also pass the time by playing classic road trip games like “I Spy” and “Twenty Questions.” You can keep passengers in the backseat occupied, particularly little ones, by supplying them with portable versions of their favorite board games.
Sustainable Tweaks: It’s easy to reduce your impact on the environment on road trips, and doing so will make you and your travel companions feel better and more energized about your journey! Try turning off the AC and feeling the fresh breeze from open windows to reduce fuel use. Regarding hydration, please bring your own reusable water bottles and refill them at rest station water fountains.
You can also select snacks wisely. For example, Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms are now available in store drop-off recycle-ready packaging. Help protect the planet by participating in the Store Drop-Off program, conveniently located at retail stores along your route.
So, have a great trip this summer everyone. With delicious snacks, fun games, and detours, a road trip doesn’t just have to be a means to an end; it can also be a relaxing and fun part of your vacation. (StatePoint)
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Thirty-three years after its creation as a nonprofit organization with a mission to bring Help, Hope, Housing, and Healing to families experiencing homelessness, Rainbow Village has launched a capital campaign to more than double the number of people it can serve.
Within its current campus footprint, the nonprofit can serve thirty families with transitional housing and transformational programming for up to two years. The recent purchase of an adjacent property paired with the development of a three-year Strategic Plan means Rainbow Village can more than double its capacity to serve an additional thirty-six families. United by a mission with meaningful impact, the launch event brought together community leaders and passionate philanthropists.
“More than bricks and mortar, this campaign is not just about raising funds; it’s about igniting hope and fostering change in our community,” said Rainbow Village CEO Melanie Conner. “With the help of our supporters – old and new –we will not only provide housing, but we will create a safe space for families to live and thrive as they work to break the cycle of homelessness. We are beyond grateful to our many benefactors for the $10,752,768.50 raised to date, including an incredible $4.6 million grant from Gwinnett County. We have a long way to go, but I am so hopeful, given this amazing launch.”
Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson added, “Our commitment to building strong, supportive communities is at the heart of everything we do in Gwinnett County. It is an honor to contribute to the growth of Rainbow Village and its mission to provide a safe and stable home for those in need. This award is more than just funding – it’s a promise to continue nurturing hope and creating opportunities for families to thrive.”
City of Duluth Mayor Greg Whitlock shared similar sentiments about the long-standing nonprofit. “Rainbow Village is an organization the city leans on to keep us in touch with the community,” he said. “For folks facing hard times, we have to make sure that they believe there is hope, and that is exactly what Rainbow Village does.”
In addition to remarks made by Gwinnett County and City of Duluth leadership, the event featured an ambiance that underscored the vital role that Rainbow Village plays in addressing housing insecurity. Attendees were also treated to comfort food and acoustic tunes.
The Capital Campaign seeks to raise a total of $15 million. These critical funds will support the construction of two new buildings to house thirty-six apartments, along with the provision of tools needed to strengthen its operational foundation. Rainbow Village encourages donations of all sizes and has established a variety of giving opportunities. With every dollar raised, the organization moves one step closer to achieving its transformative goals.
More information at RainbowVillage.org.
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Continued from page 5 Enjoy the Water Continued from page 7
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)
we’ve built a reputation for treating our clients the way we’d want our own family to be treated.”
When a plumber from Stars and Pipes shows up, they don’t just fix the issue—they explain it. Each customer gets a walk-through of the problem, a detailed breakdown of the options, and a chance to ask any questions before the work begins.
“We’re not just here to fix plumbing issues,” said Sean. “We’re here to build trust and long-term relationships.”
Outside of work, the Stars and Pipes Plumbing team stays active in the community. This year, they proudly sponsored both the Parkview High School football team and the Hanarry West Dolphins swim team in Lilburn.
“We’re always looking for more ways to give back and support local programs,” said Sean. “For us, it’s not just about running a business—it’s about being a positive presence in the community.”
It’s clear that Stars and Pipes Plumbing offers more than just pipe repairs. With a commitment to service rooted in military discipline and family values, Sean Nelson and his team bring excellence, reliability, and heart to every home they enter. Whether you’re dealing with a leaky faucet or considering a full plumbing upgrade, Stars and Pipes Plumbing is the call you’ll be glad you made.
More information at https://starsandpipesatl.com/, or 770-398-STAR
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. 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.”
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By Jane Bishop
In a world fueled by immediacy—rapid results, instant replies, overnight success—the idea of delay is often met with resistance. That single word can stir frustration, anxiety, impatience, and even fear. Whether it’s a postponed flight, an unfulfilled promotion, a creative block, or waiting on a response that never seems to come, delay is perceived as an obstacle.
Often, we react to delay due to uncertainty, unmet expectations, and feeling a lack of control. The mind interprets delay as disruption, creating emotional disturbance. Yet, according to Merriam-Webster, delay is defined as “the act of postponing, hindering, or causing something to occur more slowly than expected or desired.” While this definition suggests an interruption in progress, it also presents an invitation—to pause, reassess, and recognize an unexpected opportunity.
Recognizing the emotions caused by delay reveals our values, fears, and trust. What if delay wasn’t a setback but a steppingstone? What if we shifted our perspective and reframed delay as space to recalibrate, reset, and realign rather than something personal or discouraging? How would that empower us to embrace the pause?
Here are three ways to reframe delay and embrace the pause:
1. Delay is Refinement, Not Denial
Sometimes what feels like a closed door is really a time of preparation. A delay can offer space for deeper reflection, skill sharpening, or perspective shifts. Ask: What is this moment asking me to refine—my intention, my approach, or my understanding? Instead of rushing through it, explore what you can build within it.
2. Delay as Emotional Insight
Use the emotions that arise in delay as a mirror. What does impatience reveal to me? How does anxiety point to a need for control? These insights can deepen your emotional intelligence and help you navigate not just this pause, but future uncertainties with greater resilience.
3. Delay as Alignment Check
Sometimes we’re so committed to an outcome that we miss whether it still aligns with who we’re becoming. Delay gives us a chance to step back and ask, Am I still heading in the direction that feels true? It allows recalibration—something that rarely happens when everything moves fast. Rather than resisting delay, consider leaning into it. It’s not just time lost—it’s time offered. A pause is filled with potential. Practicing patience with delay improves resilience and reinforces a daily, forward-thinking approach to life’s pauses. How will you recognize the value of delay and embrace the pause today?
More information at www.janebishoplive.com.
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
Are You Looking Up? Because Leaders Do.
How can we lead when we’re constantly looking down—at our phones, distractions, and the noise around us? We can’t. Leaders look up. They look ahead. They set the tone. And the best leaders, whether individuals or organizations, have one thing in common: a strong brand. So, let’s talk about what that means in 2025.
Your Brand: More Than a Logo, It’s an Experience
Everything you do communicates a message—especially when it comes to branding. A great brand doesn’t just tell people what you do; it shows them who you are. That’s why we instinctively associate Nike with “Just Do It” and immediately picture Walt Disney World when we hear “the happiest place on Earth.” These brands aren’t just slogans; they’re experiences that evoke emotion. And in today’s world, experience is everything.
Think about it—are you a Coke or Pepsi person? A Mac or PC user? These preferences aren’t just about product features; they’re about identity. Your brand is what sets you apart in a crowded market. People can try to copy what you do, but they can’t copy you. Your brand is your DNA, and that is your competitive edge.
Price vs. Value: Where Does Your Brand Stand?
Here’s a simple truth: price is just a number, but value is a perception. Value = price + goods/services + YOU. Without the personal touch that your brand brings, you become just another commodity. And commodities compete on price alone—a race to the bottom. No thanks. The goal isn’t to be the cheapest option; it’s to be the best option.
What Exactly Is a Brand?
Your brand is the sum total of key ideas, emotions, and perceptions associated with you or your organization. It’s the shorthand for how people think and feel about you. In other words, your brand is like a fingerprint—completely unique.
To simplify this, I use the acronym BRAND:
• Baseline: The foundation of how people measure you.
• Reputation: What you stand for and how you are perceived.
• Attributes: The defining characteristics people associate with you.
• Name: The emotional response your name evokes (good, bad, or indifferent).
• Distinctiveness: What makes you different and impossible to replicate.
Here’s the kicker—your brand isn’t what you say it is. It’s what others say it is. The most successful individuals and organizations understand this and shape their brands intentionally through strategic communication and consistency.
The PACT Mindset: Building a Brand That Lasts Want a brand that stands the test of time? Develop a PACT mindset:
• Passion – Bring energy, dedication, and enthusiasm to everything you do.
• Authenticity – Be real, consistent, and grounded in integrity.
• Creativity – Think differently, embrace innovation, and challenge the status quo.
• Trust – Build strong relationships by being reliable and ethical.
A brand built on these principles isn’t just recognizable, it’s memorable And in 2025, where attention spans are shorter than ever, being memorable is everything.
Taking Action: Strengthen Your Brand Today
Your brand isn’t static. It evolves. The question isn’t whether you have a brand—it’s whether you’re actively shaping it or letting others define it for you.
Here’s your action plan:
1. Get Feedback – Ask people around you (both close contacts and outsiders) how they perceive your brand. You might be surprised at what you learn.
2. Refine Your Message – Make sure your brand communicates the experience you want people to associate with you.
3. Be Consistent – Great brands don’t happen overnight. They’re built through deliberate, intentional efforts over time.
So, does your brand matter? Absolutely. It’s the single biggest factor in setting you apart in 2025 and beyond.
Ryan T. Sauers is CEO of End Resultz Media and Sauers Consulting Strategies. More information at www.SauersConsulting.com or www. EndResultz.com.
stand.
By Kristen Eleveld
When choosing someone to help you take control of your financial future, you want someone experienced and knowledgeable. And it couldn’t hurt to find a company that has recently been named Best of Gwinnett for the eleventh year in a row. That company is, of course, Green Financial Resources, LLC (GFR) in Duluth.
President and CEO Roger Green has been helping people with their money for over thirty-seven years. Along the way, sons Andrew and Michael Green joined Green Financial as fellow advisors, helping Roger provide ongoing financial guidance to their clients. What’s the secret of their success? In a word: excellence.
“We focus on all-around excellence in everything we do,” said Laura Green, who has served as COO for twenty-five years. “Everyone at GFR is focused on serving and helping others, and we’re staffed at a level that allows us to maintain personalized, responsive service.”
In a time where quality customer service and building relationships have gone by the wayside, the team at Green Financial Resources continues to prioritize providing an exceptional experience for our clients.
The process is simple: contact Green Financial Resources to set up a no-cost, no-obligation meeting to discuss your current financial situation and topics of interest to you. Whether you want to discuss ideas for investment, financial goals, or anything else from the lengthy list of potential topics listed on the “What We Do” tab at www.RogerSGreen.com, GFR is here to help. GFR requires no investment minimums, as they strive to help everyone make the most of what they have.
Roger Green has taught retirement planning at Gwinnett Tech since 1997. The classes cover many basic financial principles everyone needs to under-
“Although the class isn’t a requirement of any potential client, it is a great first step to real education about the concepts that will help you better plan for your financial future,” said Laura. “Once people take a class, they can meet with one of our advisors to discuss what they have learned and how it applies to their situation. The class helps prepare you for a more effective planning discussion.”
The team at Green Financial Resources wants to be just that: a resource to help you as you determine your next steps at every point along the way.
“Whether it’s choosing investments for your financial future, paying for college, buying a home, dealing with an inheritance, starting a business, making Social Security timing decisions, estate/ legacy planning, and much more,” said Laura, “our advisors are here to help our clients throughout all of the financial decisions and challenges life may bring.”
If you’re interested in taking charge of your financial future by meeting with an advisor or taking a class, the process is easy. Reach out to Green Financial Resources today. GFR is truly here to help!
More information at www.RogerSGreen.com or call (770) 931-1414.
Roger, Andrew, and Michael Green are 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 2014-2024 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. Results are further vetted through available info, such as Better Business Bureau records. Multiple winners in each sector may finish as “Best”, “Among the Best”, or “Ones to Watch”, depending on the size of the market sector. Awards do not guarantee future results, nor are they an endorsement by any client. No compensation was provided directly or indirectly for these awards. For a comprehensive review of your personal situation, always consult with a tax or legal advisor. Neither Cetera Advisors LLC nor any of its representatives may give legal or tax advice. Since 1997, located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy, Ste 140, Duluth GA 30096
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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.
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Quebec and British Columbia), are most decidedly Blue.
Adding the state of Canada would almost overnight shift control of the U.S. Congress to the Democratic Party, likely within two election cycles, and with California and Canada then controlling potentially 108 Electoral College votes, a path to victory and the White House would also be easily within reach every four years, with nearly 25-30 percent of the expanded nation’s population within those two states. As this president claims expertise around the “art of the deal,” perhaps he should also bone up on the law of unintended consequences. Guh’day, eh!
Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
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