MARCH 2025: (BLUE) Our Town Gwinnett Monthly Magazine for Gwinnett/NE DeKalb

MARCH 2025 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville | Snellville | Lilburn | Stone Mountain | Tucker

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

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March 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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On the Cover:

Catching Up with Brookwood Animal Hospital

By Kristen Eleveld Brookwood Animal Hospital has been a staple of Gwinnett for over forty years. Now, as they continue to grow and meet the needs of their clients, a new era has started for the team at Brookwood Animal Hospital.

Dr. Craig Yeomans opened the hospital in 1983 and has led his team faithfully since that time. This year, as Dr. Yeomans steps down completely to enjoy a much-deserved retirement, he leaves his patients with only the best of care providers—namely, Dr. Jenny Reeseman, who purchased the practice from Dr. Yeomans over five years ago.

Dr. Reeseman first worked with Brookwood Animal Hospital as a high school student. After running the practice for over five years, Dr. Reeseman is looking forward to the next chapter of her veterinarian career.

“I am excited to have the reins given to me and to be able to step in completely on my own,” said Dr. Reeseman. “Dr. Yeomans was able to step away because he knows the clinic is in good hands.”

And while the Brookwood Animal Hospital has always been known for its incredible patient care, Dr. Reeseman is excited about making some changes to the practice to best suit her patients’ needs.

For instance, Dr. Reeseman plans to utilize her staff to their full ability in order to see as many patients as possible during the day. Many times, a vet assistant may be the one who gives your furry friend a monthly booster shot, while the vets on staff will be available for well checks or more complicated appointments involving illness or new problems. They have also hired a new veterinarian who will start at the beginning of April, which will increase the number of patients that can be seen each day.

“Our goal is to be as available as possible for all of our patients,” said Dr. Reeseman. “We want to be efficient without losing any one-on-one time with our patients.”

Dr. Reeseman and her team have already started to implement many of these strategies, which allows her assistants and vet assistants to learn even more about the best ways to care for your pets.

Of course, some things never change. Dr. Reeseman always likes to remind her clients that the best way to keep their pets healthy is preventative care.

March 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

“I always give the same answer when someone asks about preventative care: yes!” said Dr. Reeseman. “Parasites like heartworm, fleas, and ticks are so prevalent in Georgia, and it’s not always obvious that your pet needs a check-up.”

Even animals like cats who stay indoors at all times will benefit from a regular well check.

“Cats age faster than people do, and people are still recommended to get a well check once a year,” said Dr. Reeseman. “The more we see your pets, the better we can predict trends for their health.”

Another thing that has not changed is Dr. Reeseman’s passion for giving back to groups and sports at her alma mater, Brookwood High School. When one of the women’s teams reaches out for sponsorship or help, Dr. Reeseman is always willing to give it.

And, of course, she continues to be a staunch supporter of the Brookwood Robotics Club.

“Robotics teaches to many life skills: learning different roles in a group, problem solving, managing different personalities working closely together, following a leader, and so much more,” said Dr. Reeseman, a self-described “robotics mom” who continues to support her children during their time in the Robotics Club. “The club teaches them that it’s okay to fail. Sometimes we learn

Continued on page 8

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Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

— An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/NE DeKalb 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 Bill Crane Pam Walker

IN THIS ISSUE 5 7 8 9

On the Cover: Catching Up with Brookwood Animal Hospital From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks One Man’s Opinion: Dodging the DOGE Sports Talk: Archer High Student Forms First Ever Boys Volleyball Team 10 Travels Tales: Our Beautiful World 10 Lilburn Police Department Adds ATV Patrol 11 Spark…A Word for Your Day 11 Meet Mohamed Belal: Gwinnett Technical College 2025 Instructor of the Year 12 Lanier Islands Resort and Star 94: “Say I Do with a View” Wedding Giveaway 13 Key Steps to Preparing for a Spring Deck Build 14 Father/Daughter Writing Duo of Brightly Pond

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From the Publisher:

Ryan’s Remarks

By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

As we step into March 2025, I find myself reflecting—not just on the past year, but on how much has changed in the past five years.

Just over half a decade ago, our world turned upside down. The pandemic disrupted our lives, reshaped our perspectives, and challenged us in unexpected ways. It was a time of uncertainty, resilience, and growth.

Fast-forward to today, and while the challenges of the past may still linger in our memories, we stand in a new season—both literally and figuratively.

Spring is arriving, bringing with it longer days, warmer weather, and fresh opportunities. If the past five years have taught us anything, it’s that time is a gift. We can’t buy more of it, and we can’t get it back; but we can choose how we spend it.

So, let’s make the most of this time. Let’s be intentional in how we invest in our families, friends, and communities. Let’s focus on what truly matters— building relationships, lifting each other up, and showing kindness in a world that too often feels divided. In a seemingly “divided” world, when opinions can be strong and differences magnified, we have a choice: we can lean into division or rise above it.

What if we committed to listening more and judging less, to assuming the best in others instead of the worst, and to leading with kindness, patience, and grace? These aren’t just lofty ideals; they are daily choices that can transform our communities and our lives.

As always, I am grateful for each of you—your support, encouragement, and engagement mean the world to me. Whether it’s through this magazine, my speaking engagements, radio shows, or podcasts, my goal remains the same: to encourage, uplift, and remind us all that we are better together.

Continued on page 12

March 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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One Man’s Opinion: Dodging the DOGE

By Bill Crane President Donald Trump campaigned to reduce the size and scope of our federal government, and millions of Americans support that position. Of course, the devil is in the details. Our federal bureaucracy is bloated, often unresponsive, and more than occasionally duplicative.

A recent Trump edict to the U.S. Treasury and Mint makes perfect sense… end minting/production of copper pennies.

The one-cent piece is costing, depending on fluctuating copper commodity prices, 2-3 cents each to mint before the costs of placing them in circulation. Not to say there won’t be a few bumps in the transition away from the penny, but the change makes both sense and will save cents by the millions.

U.S. government debt is approaching our annual Gross Domestic Product, and annual interest payments on the debt will quickly equal our yearly defense spending. Continuing spending resolutions and the status quo are NOT the answer.

Since President George W. Bush attempted to begin a discussion of income and means testing for Social Security benefits, as well as raising the retirement age, potentially to 70 (in part due to increasing life expectancies at the time), as well as a similar scope/scale review of the exploding costs of Medicare and other transfer payments (still the fastest growing and largest parts of the federal government budget), he was lambasted and shot down almost immediately by the leadership of his own party, as well as the opposition. The fourth rail in American politics has taken away a program/entitlement or new benefit, once established and given.

Elon Musk’s DOGE has repeatedly stated a federal budget reduction target of $2 trillion. All of the federal budget discretionary spending is currently $1.7 trillion (2024 FY budget). Federal government outlays, discretionary and non-discretionary spending (national defense, transfer payments and entitlements) totaled $6.75 trillion, revenue and tax collections totaled $4.92 trillion, leaving a 2024 deficit of $1.83 trillion, and hence creating the Musk target

of $2 trillion in spending cuts.

Nearly 50,000 federal employees accepted the buyout offer. If/how they all get paid out remains to be seen. Yet, our federal civil service has 3 million employees. The Department of Defense has another 3 million. Even cutting 5 percent of those combined is the loss of 300,000 jobs. However, the U.S. economy typically creates about half that number of new jobs each month, though likely at lower pay and benefits.

Musk and his young tech cohorts then took another page from the typical tech company downsizing playbook. Last hired, first fired. New federal government agency employees are on a 90-day probationary period before they become full-time and have protected status, as well as before their health and retirement benefits and leave time begin to accrue. DOGE has put out notices of termination of positions for all probationary employees at the CDC, Veterans Affairs (VA), and other federal agencies.

Unfortunately, probationary employees also include those accepting promotion or transfer to a new agency or position, often after otherwise exemplary service. Probationary employees also include individuals on performance plans or awaiting adjudication of a workplace complaint, who typically cannot be terminated if or until the complaint is investigated and fully adjudicated, including appeals.

There is a clock on the time length of service for a Special Government Employee (Musk), and the DOGE recommendations and complete report are expected by July 4, 2026, coincidentally our nation’s 250th birthday. But every program and spending bucket has a fan, audience, or constituency.

Our veterans certainly deserve quality healthcare, and the VA now has a headcount (pre-DOGE) of more than 400,000, roughly equivalent to the standing troop strength of our U.S. Army. Does the VA need a bigger budget, more employees, or better management and productivity? The operating rooms (ORs) of the Atlanta VA campus were shut down for several years due to persistent staph infections in those ORs. Have you heard of anything similar at another major for-profit or nonprofit health system?

There needs to be at least one pair of experienced federal budget hands in this cutting mix; perhaps someone like Paul Ryan with some institutional memory and insights. If not, the ride is likely to be bumpy. The complaining voices will only get louder and larger in number and frequency, as will the fast-rising litigation costs.

One final tip: Don’t sell or cash in all those pennies. Whether or not they become collector items, copper still has intrinsic value as a conductor in plumbing/piping/cable, computers, and elsewhere. Even the lowly penny may eventually hold its value better than the current Dogecoin crypto. Pennywise, pounds foolish.

Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com

Brookwood Animal Hospital Continued from page 5 the most by failing. Failing teaches us to pursue our goals and find a different way to achieve them.”

If you want the best care for your furry friends, the answer is simple: Brookwood Animal Hospital is the place to go.

More information at https://www.brookwoodanimal.com/, (770) 979-0089

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Sports Talk: Archer High Student Forms First Ever Boys Volleyball Team

By Traci Sanders Keng Chang is a junior at Archer High School who was introduced to the sport of volleyball by his middle school teacher, David Thomas.

Chang lived in Florida before he moved to Gwinnett County.

There he played a game similar to volleyball, with a local ethnic group called Hmong. When Chang moved to Georgia and was mentored by Thomas in volleyball, he fell in love with the sport.

“I love how volleyball is one of the few sports that builds a connection among the players,” he said. “It’s kind of like the game children play where the balloon is passed between them without hitting the ground. You never know where it’s going to go, so each player involved has an important role.”

Chang enjoyed the sport, but wasn’t very outspoken about his passion for it until one day Thomas’s daughter approached Chang at practice and complimented him on his skill, noting that he was a natural fit for the sport. This inspired Chang to find other students who might enjoy volleyball and to form a team during his freshman year of high school. This endeavor proved to be a bigger challenge than he expected.

The initial challenge was finding young men who wanted to play because, as Chang shared, volleyball is stereotypically viewed as a girl’s sport. However, Chang knew there were some male students at his school who would love the sport as much as he did, if he could get their attention.

To accomplish this, he started sharing highlight clips of his previous games on social media, and his classmates began following him. He also obtained permission from the school office administrators to share his vision for the team on the morning announcements, to attract potential players.

Once Chang found some interested students, he began looking for a team sponsor, another endeavor that proved much more challenging than he expected.

“Sponsors play a significant role for the team,” Chang shared. “They need to be present at the games to be the face of the team. It requires a good bit of time and energy on their part, which makes it hard to find and keep sponsors.”

Other challenges Chang faced included the lack of school support for boys’

March 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

volleyball.

“They don’t really view it as a school sport, more of a type of club for boys,” he explained. “So, that limits where and when we’re able to practice and hold games.”

The team usually practices in the auxiliary gym three days a week for two hours, but during this upcoming season they will probably be allowed only one to two days for one hour, if that. No time has been granted as of yet. The boys are rarely able to use the main gym because the girls’ volleyball team gets first use, as they are recognized as an official school sports team.

“I wish people would realize that volleyball isn’t a sport just for girls,” he said. “Lots of boys enjoy playing and are really good at it. And it’s a very fastpaced, entertaining event that people really enjoy watching. Our home games are always packed.”

Chang mentioned that his team participates in home and away games during spring and fall seasons. Sometimes they have to rent a bus for the away games.

Other times each player is responsible for their own travel arrangements.

“Buses aren’t cheap, and our funds are limited,” Chang said. “Our games are

Continued on page 14

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Travels Tales: Our Beautiful World

By Pam Walker There are so many programs available today on TV and the internet that explore the beauty of this world, but seeing these places up close and personal is special.

Where to start? For me, the beauty of hiking in the Andes in Patagonia tops everything. There are guanacos, foxes, amazing birds such as the condor and the rhea (relative of the ostrich), penguins, and an occasional puma. There is spectacular beauty around every corner and on every snow-capped mountain peak.

Then again, if you like mountains and hiking (or not), Switzerland is spectacular with its high peaks, green meadows, and small quaint towns everywhere.

If Asia beckons you, Vietnam is a wonder. Halong Bay offers some amazing sites, and you can cruise from island to island, snorkel, kayak, and watch the free divers farming and collecting pearls to ship abroad. The mountains here spring up from the water like the gods dropped spoonfuls of earth in the water.

Of course, who can forget Africa? Whether in Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, or even South Africa, the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino) are there for viewing. There is nothing like staying in a tented camp and listening to the sounds of the night, such as lions roaring as they hunt and elephants crashing through the bush.

What about Norway, with its famous fjords and wonderful hospitality? Or the mystery of Saudi Arabia, which just recently opened to Western visitors?

Don’t forget the beauty of the USA either! Hike the slot canyons of Utah or the amazing Rocky Mountains stretching up into Canada. All are places to get out there and see sights you will not forget in your lifetime!

I could mention so many more spectacular places to go, and I could go on and on. There is no end to the wonderful places you can go to. Yes, I do like to

Continued on page 15

Lilburn Police Department Adds ATV Patrol

By Tana Poncsak When thinking about an All-Terrain Vehicle (ATV), perhaps recreational use is the first thing that comes to mind for most people. But it turns out ATVs are being used for more than just recreation these days. In fact, there are a number of professional uses for the vehicles, including law enforcement and public safety.

ATV patrolling is currently being used by number of police departments and public safety entities in Georgia and beyond. According to the article, “Patrolling Beyond the Streets” by Paul Peluso on the website Officer.com, ATVs are used in environments with unique terrain, and where versatility and mobility take priority.

The Lilburn Police Department is hard at work to keep the city of Lilburn safe, and that means having the ability to patrol all parts of the city. To access some of the harder-to-reach areas, the city’s police department has added an ATV Patrol in downtown.

Lilburn Police Chief Chris Dusik says the ATV patrol started a few months ago, and so far, it’s going very well.

“Basically downtown is our city center,” Dusik says. “It’s a nice, safe area and we don’t see a lot of calls for service there.”

But even so, Dusik says they still need police presence in the way of a dedicated officer, who not only responds to calls on the streets around the city center with a traditional vehicle, but who can also access the nearby parks and trails.

Senior Officer Matt Legerme, who has been with the Lilburn Police Department since 2012, is assigned to this patrol and is the police officer you’ll likely see on the ATV. Chief Dusik says the ATV allows Officer Legerme to access the narrow trails and wooded areas where traditional vehicles are too big to access.

Using an ATV also allows the officer to get to where he needs to go quickly when help is needed, and it’s equipped with everything the officer might need, including handcuffs for multiple arrests and a trauma bag for medical emergencies.

Continued on page 15

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Spark…A Word for Your Day

By Jane Bishop The word “spark” evokes thoughts and images that can be literal or metaphorical.

The literal definition is “a small particle of a burning substance thrown out by a body in combustion or remaining when combustion is nearly completed (https://www. merriam-webster.com/dictionary/spark).”

Basically, it’s a flash of light that is produced by a sudden electrical discharge.

When we consider spark metaphorically, the evidence may show up as an idea that ignites creativity that results in something tangible/visible. In both contexts, spark conveys energy and potential, symbolizing the start of something new and exciting, and can ignite significant change in our lives! So how can we harness the power of a spark that ignites positive transformations?

1. Identify Your Spark • Reflection: What activities or ideas feed your energy and inspiration? This could be anything from a hobby, a career goal, or a personal project.

2. Nurture Your Spark • Education: Learn more about your area of interest. Read books, take courses, or watch tutorials. The more knowledge you gain, the more your spark will grow.

3. Share Your Spark • Community: Join groups or communities that share your interest.

Engaging with like-minded individuals can provide support, inspiration, and new ideas.

4. Fuel/Feed Your Spark • Set Goals: Establish clear, achievable goals to keep yourself motivated.

Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps.

5. Ignite Others • Inspire: Use your spark to inspire others. Share your journey, successes, and failures. Your story might be the spark someone else needs to ignite their own journey.

When we consider the literal result of energy with a spark, it is a powerful reminder that even the smallest burst of energy can lead to significant change.

Whether a literal spark from a fire or the figurative spark of an idea, this word captures the essence of what it means to ignite something new and exciting. By identifying, nurturing, sharing, and sustaining our sparks, we can ignite a chain reaction of positivity and growth in our self-leadership that can create a spark to ignite others.

So, the next time you feel a spark of inspiration, how will you handle it? I

invite you to embrace it, harness it, and see where it leads you. After all, even the smallest spark can start a great fire for fuel to keep leading4ward!

More information at www.janebishop.live.

Meet Mohamed Belal: Gwinnett Technical College 2025 Instructor of the Year

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff Gwinnett Technical College recently named Mohamed Belal, Humanities Program Director, as the Rick Perkins Instructor of the Year recipient for 2025.

Belal, who became a teacher to make a meaningful impact on the lives of others, expressed his passion for education and student success.

“I love the moment when a concept ‘clicks’ for a student—their confidence grows, and they realize what they’re capable of achieving,” said Belal. “My inspiration comes from seeing my students succeed, whether earning certifications, starting careers, or simply gaining the confidence to tackle challenges. Watching them transform their lives through education and achieve their career dreams is deeply rewarding.”

Belal emphasized the honor and responsibility of representing Gwinnett Tech, highlighting the institution and the Technical College System of Georgia’s commitment to excellence in technical education.

“Earning this recognition confirms my dedication to our students and the community. It also reminds me of the collective effort of my colleagues who strive to make a difference every day,” he stated. “I hope my students leave with more than technical skills. I want them to develop critical thinking, problem solving, resilience, and a continuous learning mindset. I strive to teach them how to adapt, problem solve, and excel professionally and personally.

Additionally, I incorporate various soft skills into my lesson plans, which are essential for every career.”

Belal holds a Master of Arts in Music Education from Helwan University in Cairo, Egypt, and resides in Lawrenceville, Georgia. The Rick Perkins Award for Excellence in Technical Instruction has been prestigious in the Technical College System of Georgia since 1991.

The award is designed to honor technical college instructors who make significant contributions to technical education through innovation and leadership in their fields. It highlights the dedication and impact of educators who inspire and support their students in achieving academic and professional success.

More information at GwinnettTech.edu.

Order from Amazon.com March 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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Lanier Islands Resort and Star 94: “Say I Do with a View” Wedding Giveaway

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff In 2017, music station Star 94 debuted a unique concept—a promotion inviting engaged couples to present their pitch for why they were most deserving to win the wedding of their dreams. The Feel-Good Throwback station partnered with Lanier Islands to fulfill that dream, giving the winning couple the choice of twenty exquisite wedding venues at the lakeside resort and a wedding valued at $20,000.

With the upcoming debut of the Lakeside Chapel & Garden—the resort’s newest venue—in a matter of months, Lanier Islands and Star 94 are bringing the promotion back. Announced by the station’s Jenn Hobby during The Morning Drive on February 20, 2025, the “Say I Do With a View” Wedding Giveaway invites engaged couples to submit a 60-second video to pitch their love story and why they should win their dream wedding—valued at $35,000.

The promotion culminates in a Wedding Showcase at the Islands for select finalists on Saturday, April 26th, followed by the announcement of the winning couple live on-air on Star 94 in May. “Lanier Islands Resort makes it easy for couples to tailor a wedding to fit their vision,” said resort president Matthew Bowling. “Our venues run the gamut

from our spacious Grand Ballroom to seven stunning outdoor sites—including our coming soon Chapel & Garden.

We have been lauded many times over

by The Knot, Wedding Wire, Wedding Spot, and more for our distinctive mix of scenery and service. My team and I are excited to partner with Star 94 to give one lucky couple the wedding of their dreams. It’s our wish that the Islands will become a beloved destination for them during this special time in their lives.

We approach every wedding with a big picture view that we’ll have front-row seats as their love story grows. We hope they’ll share future anniversaries with us and, eventually, spend time here with their children, from Mother’s Day and Easter brunches to summer staycations and Breakfasts with Santa.”

A panel of judges, including staff from Star 94 and Lanier Islands, will review the entries and have a chance to meet the couples. Sixty couples will be selected to attend the Wedding Showcase at the resort on April 26th where they will tour the various venues, sample catering favorites, and meet an array of vendors. The “Say I Do with a View” panel will select the winning couple based on creativity, passion, and originality. The winners will choose a date and venue, and then work closely with Lanier Islands’ wedding team to design their vision of the perfect event.

The contest is now open to engaged couples in Georgia. Those interested can visit the “Say I Do with a View” Wedding Giveaway page at https://www. audacy.com/star94atlanta to learn more about the rules of submission and how to submit their videos. Video and audio clips may be shared online, on-air, and through social media. To view Lanier Islands’ exquisite indoor and outdoor wedding venues and to learn more about weddings at the resort, prospective “Say I Do with a View” Wedding Giveaway contestants are invited to visit https://www.lanierislands.com/georgia_wedding_venues/.

Ryan’s Remarks Continued from page 7

Please continue to support the incredible businesses featured in this publication. They are more than just names on a page; they are the heartbeat of our community. Your support of local businesses strengthens the very fabric of OUR TOWN. So, as we move forward into this season of renewal, let’s embrace the future with optimism, gratitude, and purpose. Let’s control what we can control, lift each other up, and most of all—let’s BE KIND. Wishing you all a fantastic spring and a year filled with joy, success, and meaningful connections. Thank you for being on this journey with me of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

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Key Steps to Preparing for a Spring Deck Build

ensures you won’t be caught off guard by unexpected costs once installation begins. Be realistic and consider all potential expenses, including labor, permits, substructure materials, decking, railing, and any additional features or amenities you might want to include, such as lighting, an outdoor sound system, or an under-deck drainage system.

5. Research materials The choice of materials for your deck is crucial as it directly impacts your outdoor space’s aesthetics and longevity. Now is an ideal time to research the range of available options. Consider factors like durability, maintenance requirements, and sustainability when deciding. Many above-ground decks require railing, so be sure to consider that as well. Railing options are myriad, and the costs vary widely, so planning ensures you have time to make the right choices for your project and your budget.

Planning for a spring deck build during the winter months is a wise decision that can save you time, money, and stress in the long run. Following these steps will prepare you to embark on your deck construction project when the warmer weather arrives. With careful planning and attention to detail, your dream deck will soon become a reality, providing you with a beautiful and functional outdoor space for years to come. (BPT)

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff As temperatures are cold, it might seem premature to think about springtime outdoor projects. But when planning a spring deck build, now is the perfect time to start. The winter months provide an ideal window of opportunity to lay the groundwork for a successful and stress-free spring deck construction project.

Here are some critical steps and considerations to ensure your new deck will be ready to enjoy when the flowers bloom.

1. Define your vision Every successful deck project begins with a clear vision. Spend some time this winter envisioning your ideal deck. Consider its purpose. Will it be a space for outdoor dining, relaxation, or entertainment? Think about the deck’s size, shape, and design elements. Gather inspiration from home improvement magazines, social media platforms, and websites like Decks.com to help refine your vision. You can also find many ready-made deck plans online that offer ideas and inspiration.

2. Lock in labor One of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you plan to build the deck yourself or hire a professional. If you have the skills to DIY, take advantage of online resources, like Trex Academy, for expert tips and step-by-step instructions to help get the job done. If you plan to work with a contractor, it is an excellent time to start the vetting process. Quality deck builders are often in high demand and tend to book out months in advance. Securing a contractor now ensures a skilled professional is ready to begin work when the weather gets warmer.

3. Plan for permits Deck construction often requires permits, depending on your local building codes and neighborhood associations, if applicable. Use the winter months to research local building codes and obtain necessary permits and approvals. This process can be time-consuming, so getting a head start will ensure you don’t face any unexpected delays come spring.

4. Set your budget Setting a budget early gives you time to make any necessary adjustments and

March 2025 Our Town Gwinnett

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Father/Daughter Writing Duo of Brightly Pond

By Victoria R. Crosby When Gary Intili found out his daughter Leighann Troino was expecting his first grandchild, he was so excited that his mind began to wander.

While he was lying in his hammock and looking at the pond in his garden, he imagined the stories he would tell his future grandchild, and the character of Fribbit the frog was born.

He told Leighann the story he had created in his mind, and she loved the idea, so they decided they would put a children’s book together as a father daughter duo. It was Gary’s first attempt at writing a children’s story. Leighann is a former elementary and special needs teacher at a school in Decatur, who left work to raise her daughter Elliana (called Ellie). She acted as editor for the story and added some of her own ideas.

Leighann and her husband Anthony live in the house next door to her parents. There is a gate between the two properties, so they frequently spend time together.

Gary said they went “old school,” meaning a traditional publisher not a self-publishing company. It only took a few months after sending query letters to several publishing companies, when they received an acceptance letter from Mascot Books. It took two years for the complete process, from the concept to publication.

The illustrations were through the publishing company. Gary and Leighann were given a choice of several illustrators, and they chose Alejandro Echavez.

“We felt he captured the essence of the characters and scenery, so we gave him creative freedom,” Gary said. “He was very easy to work with and made

some good suggestions.”

Since the release of Brightly Pond: The Adventures of Fribbit the Frog in October of 2022, the book has sold well. Gary and Leighann attend craft shows, festivals, and holiday markets where they do readings and book signings. They also give readings at elementary schools and daycare centers and have been interviewed on podcasts.

The book was submitted to The BookFest® and won two awards, 2nd place for children’s fiction with animals, and 3rd place picture books.

Ellie, who is now three and a half years old, loves the story and knows all the characters in the stories of Fribbit the frog. Her family reads the book to her often.

Gary and Leighann are working on a series of other books about the adventures of Fribbit.

“Observing something and thinking about stories, a moral or lesson may come up, but not a planned message,” Gary noted.

Mascot Books recommends the book for children ages four to eight.

Brightly Pond books are available at bookstores, online, and more locally at Storybook Market in Gainesville and Liberty Books in Lawrenceville.

Sports Talk Continued from page 9

free, and we’re required to provide concessions for home games, so our team fees don’t cover all our expenses, which is where sponsors help a lot.”

The fees for Junior Varsity are $250 and $325 for Varsity. These fees cover things like uniforms, bus rentals, security for home games, and paying referees for home games. According to Chang, running these teams is much like running businesses. And not only does Chang coach his teams at his high school, he also co-coaches with Thomas at the middle school on Wednesdays.

“It’s been hard to balance everything, but I love the sport and I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished so far,” he said. “Our school actually invited us to be in the yearbook this year, which is pretty cool.”

Chang has gained great leadership skills throughout his journey with his teams. He hopes to play on a college team in the future and major in some type of business.

In the meantime, Chang is enjoying the ride coaching his high school teams and he hopes to find someone who cherishes volleyball as much as he does, to pass the baton to when he graduates.

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For more information on this group, contact Group Facilitator Vicki Parker: (770) 570-9437

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Lilburn Police Department Continued from page 10 “If somebody is hurt a mile down the trail, and they need to be brought up to the road, there’s room to bring somebody out,” Dusik says.

While many people use ATVs for recreation and fun, Dusik points out that they can be dangerous for those who don’t know how to operate them properly.

To use the ATV when patrolling, Legerme attended training at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth and received his certification to ensure everyone’s safety while using the ATV for patrolling.

Dusik, who has been in law enforcement for more than twenty years and is a Gwinnett County native, says that so far both the ATV patrol and Legerme have received a lot of positive feedback from the community.

“He’s a really great guy,” Dusik says about Officer Legerme. “He’s a real funny guy with a good personality. So it’s a really positive interaction with the community.”

And Dusik says being able to patrol the area and having a police presence help to make those who use the city’s amenities, such as the parks and trails for walking, biking, and other recreational purposes, feel safer and more com-

fortable.

Currently, Legerme is the only ATV certified officer in the department who patrols the area, but eventually Dusik says he’d like to see round the clock patrolling, especially as the area grows and the city adds more businesses and other amenities in downtown.

The ATV Patrol is just one of many public safety measures that the Lilburn Police Department uses to promote a safe and secure environment for the city’s residents and visitors.

More information at https://www.cityoflilburn.com/.

Travels Tales Continued from page 10 visit the world’s famous cities, too. But now, as they are so filled with tourists and overtourism is prominent, what could be better than being out in beautiful places with just you, the elements, and maybe your family or a few friends?

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com.

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Nurture your child’s curiosity and it will blossom into something beautiful.

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