OCTOBER 2019 (BLUE) Our Town Monthly Magazine for Gwinnett/NE DeKalb

OCTOBER 2019 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

Up Close with The Sheridan at Eastside see story on page 5

11 13 14 17

Sports Talk: Meridian Panthers Win Championship in Cooperstown Making a Difference: NG3 Parkview & Mainstreet Lilburn Initiative Getting to Know: Derrick & Brooke Heberling of NG3 Brookwood Road to Recovery: One on One with the Quinn House

#EquipToThrive “Dr.

Providence is equipping students to lead, serve, and embrace faith in Christ while providing top-tier academics, competitive sports, award-winning fine arts, and a nationally-recognized Simmons isprogram. proud to offer Botox and Dermal Fillers. Call STEM Come and see how we prepare the next generation to be hard-working, articulate and gracious young people who live out their faith and thrive in an ever-changing world.

Attend an Open House!

the office to schedule your consulta 2019

WINNER

tourprovidence.org

isJohn honored to beIV, we are committed to providing you with the high AtDr. the Simmons dental office of W. Simmons, comprehensive dental care, focused on both the function and beauty of your smile. A one of only nine dentists improving in patient care and comfort are our primary concerns. We are proud to run a practice that treats ea Georgia to have passed the kind, gentle, and caring manner, just like family. We offer a full range of the latest cosmetic a rigorous required to long-lasting, earn procedures thattesting concentrate on ensuring brilliant results you will love, and others

Cosmetic Dentistry The cosmetic procedures we offer can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. We offer a wide selection of procedures that can correct almost any dental imperfection.

• Porcelain Veneers • Teeth Whitening • Dental Bonding • Gum Recontouring • Dental Implants • All-Porcelain Crowns

BEFORE

AFTER

Compassionate Dentistry Our superior services can recapture the health, functionality, and youthful appearance of your natural smile. Our practice focuses on providing Before After long-lasting results and promoting overall dental health.

Hexcellent e a lt H y • B e a u t i f u l • i n s p i r e d PAGE 2

accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

His state-of-the-art equipment and updated technology allow him to affordably serveDENTAL CARE AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY D.M.D., P.C. • SUPERIOR his patients by providing healthy, beautiful smiles. Our experienced team provides five-star service, personalized care, and an extraordinary commitment to your health and well-being. Please join our Call for an Appointment family by scheduling a new patient exam.

J OHN W. S IMMONS,

2381-B Main Street E Snellville, Georgia 30

770-985-2437

John W. Simmons, IV, DMD, PC

2381-B Main Street East www.smilesbysimmons.co Snellville, Georgia 30078 Hours: Monday 9:00am - 7:00pm Tuesday 7:00am 770-985-2437 Office • SmilesBySimmons.com Wednesday 7:00am - 6:00pm Thursday 7:00am - 2:

Dr. John W. Simmons, IV

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Our Town Gwinnett

NOW CARING FOR PEACHTREE CORNERS When it comes to first-rate health care, you shouldn’t feel limited. That’s why Northside Hospital is proud to announce the opening of our newest premier facility. Located in the heart of Peachtree Corners, this center offers convenient access to a variety of advanced health services—including primary care, corporate health, cardiology, gastroenterology, OB/GYN, orthopedics, 3D mammography and digital X-ray.

At Northside Hospital, we’re putting industry-leading health care on the map.

Schedule your appointment today!

northside.com/peachtreecorners Our Town Gwinnett

678-312-8430

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PAGE 3

Educational Entertainment

Learn

Touch

Cuddle

Be entertained while you learn!

Enjoy an interactive hour learning about these magnificent birds.

Parrot Productions Brenda Bean (770) 715-5337

Call us now to book your next party, school or retirement home entertainment.

parrotproshows.com

Check our website for events!

Go to menu, then events—we might be at a library near you!

FANCY FEATHERS 3180 Oakcliff Industrial Street, Doraville Georgia 30340

Open 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Mon.-Wed.-Fri.-Sat. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. & 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Tues.-Thur.

Also open by appointment.

Offering all parrot/bird supplies at wholesale prices. We sell hand fed BABY PARROTS and cockatiels. Please call 770-986-0661 or visit fancyfeathersstore.com.

Featuring Zupreem, Pretty Bird and Dr. D’s pelleted diets, laAvian seed diets along with our own mix, Fancy Feathers, of seeds specialized for parrots, cockatiels, parakeets, finches and Gouldian finches.

Online store at fancyfeathersstore.com

2019 babies are coming in!

Currently available l Macaws l Amazons l Cockatoos l Cockatiels l Conures See Facebook page ‘Fancy Feathers Atlanta’ for pictures.

PAGE 4

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Our Town Gwinnett

On the Cover: The Sheridan at Eastside: Putting the HEART Back in Senior Living

By Kristen Eleveld If you are looking for the right place for you or a beloved senior in your life, Senior Lifestyle’s The Sheridan at Eastside fits the bill in every way.

From their state-of-the-art facilities to the team that drives their mission each day, you will find everything you need at this Snellville senior living campus.

With 216 units that will provide multiple levels of care, The Sheridan at Eastside is one of only three such facilities in Georgia, and one of 180 across the nation. Not only is The Sheridan unique among its peers with the newest and most advanced facilities and care equipment, it is also situated in one of the most convenient locations in Snellville, right by Eastside Medical Center.

However, even though it boasts one of the best campuses in the state, the facilities at The Sheridan are not what make it stand so far above the rest.

Their real secret lies in their team members, whose goal is to create an excellent atmosphere for each and every resident.

“This is more than a beautiful building,” said Executive Director Brian Jackson. “We have built a team of people who have hospitality at heart and genuinely want to do a great job every day.”

The Sheridan has made a practice out of making senior care the first priority for each member of their team – and they do it with HEART. Their core values are Hospitality, Excellence, Appreciation, Respect, and Teamwork, and it is these values that propel the staff at The Sheridan towards a standard of excellence that spills over into everything they do.

“Our staff cares about seniors,” said Brian. “We wouldn’t want to be in any other industry.”

Brian has been part of the senior care industry since he earned his culinary degree over fifteen years ago. Through an event where food was provided for a senior living community, he first learned about what it meant to provide seniors with the highest level of care. From there, he found his purpose and passion, and knew this was what he supposed to be doing with his life. He believes

that The Sheridan at Eastside is not just another option for those seeking a safe place for their aging loved ones to live, but a vital part of the Snellville community as a whole.

“This place is unlike any other facility,” Brian said. “It is going to be something special.”

If you are interested in learning more about The Sheridan, you’re in luck! The facility does not officially open until November, but their Welcome Center is ready and waiting to give you all the information you need. Right now, they are taking reservations for the independent living facilities – all you have to do is give them a call at 770-983.6846 to schedule a tour and learn why this campus will outshine all others.

More information at https://www.seniorlifestyle.com/property/sheridan-eastside/.

Do

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Celebrating 20+ Years Of Making Smiles Blossom!

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PAGE 5

Our Town

COMPREHENSIVE COMPREHENSIVE COMPREHENSIVE COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENTAL DEVELOPMENTAL DEVELOPMENTAL DEVELOPMENTAL CLINIC CLINIC CLINIC CLINIC COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENTAL CLINIC COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENTAL CLINIC

READ-ABLE &&MORE MORE READ-ABLE READ-ABLE READ-ABLE READ-ABLE & && MORE &MORE MORE READ-ABLE MORE

EDUCATION THERAPY EDUCATION EDUCATION EDUCATION EDUCATION THERAPY THERAPY THERAPY THERAPY EDUCATION THERAPY

Reading & Math Intervention Occupational Therapy Reading Reading Reading & Math Reading &&Math & Intervention Math &Intervention Math Intervention Intervention Occupational Occupational Occupational Occupational Therapy Therapy Therapy Therapy Reading Math Intervention Occupational Therapy Multisensory Instruction Speech Therapy Multisensory Multisensory Multisensory Multisensory Instruction Instruction Instruction Instruction Speech Speech Therapy Speech Speech Therapy Therapy Therapy Multisensory Instruction Speech Therapy Orton-Gillingham forfor Dyslexia Music Therapy Orton-Gillingham Orton-Gillingham Orton-Gillingham Orton-Gillingham for for Dyslexia for Dyslexia Dyslexia Music Music Therapy Music Therapy Music Therapy Therapy Orton-Gillingham forDyslexia Dyslexia Music Therapy DIR FloorTime for Autism Child-Teen Counseling DIRDIR FloorTime FloorTime DIR FloorTime for FloorTime for Autism for for Autism Autism Child-Teen Child-Teen Child-Teen Counseling Child-Teen Counseling Counseling Counseling DIRDIR FloorTime forAutism Autism Child-Teen Counseling IEP Preparation ADHD Attention Training IEP IEP Preparation IEP Preparation IEP Preparation Preparation ADHD ADHD Attention ADHD Attention ADHD Attention Training Attention Training Training Training IEP Preparation ADHD Attention Training

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Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultZ.com Cover Photographer Marcie Reif Photography

678 697-6049

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Call us today for your free consultation!

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 2019 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

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Kate Crews, M.Ed. Aimee Prainito Annamarie Matthews Nancy Crews LCSW Kate Crews, Kate Crews, Kate M.Ed. Kate Crews, M.Ed. Crews, Aimee M.Ed. Aimee Prainito M.Ed. Aimee Prainito Aimee Annamarie Prainito Prainito Annamarie Annamarie Matthews Annamarie Matthews Matthews Nancy Matthews Nancy Crews Nancy Crews LCSW Nancy Crews LCSW Crews LCSW LCSW Literacy Specialist Occupational Music Therapist Counselor Kate Crews, M.Ed. Aimee Prainito Annamarie Matthews Nancy Crews LCSW Therapist Literacy Literacy Specialist Literacy Specialist Literacy Specialist Occupational Specialist Occupational Occupational Occupational MusicMusic Therapist Music Therapist Music Therapist Therapist Counselor Counselor Counselor Counselor Literacy Specialist Occupational Music Therapist Counselor MondaySaturday Therapist Therapist Therapist Therapist MondayMondaySaturday MondaySaturday MondaySaturday Saturday Therapist MondaySaturday Read-Able &&More Register Now! Insurance accepted.

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IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: The Sheridan at Eastside: Putting the HEART Back in Senior Living

7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 8 Legal Talk: What Happens in a Will Contest 10 Business Matters: Magnolia Marketing Mama 11 Sports Talk: Meridian Panthers Win Championship in Cooperstown

Your fully insured, premium paint company.

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13 Making a Difference: Two Organizations Come Together for Family Fun 14 Getting to Know: Derrick & Brooke Heberling of NG3 Brookwood 16 Going Beyond the Ribbon with Bobbie Menneg 16 Pet Perch: Top Tips for Responsible Dog Ownership 17 Road to Recovery: The Quinn House

Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

Our Town Gwinnett

From the Publisher:

https://www.eddiesautomotiveservice.com

5440 Webb Pkwy.

770-381-7574

Lilburn, GA 30047

One Man’s Opinion

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

@RyanTSauers

It is nice and cool here in October. That was a joke. Can you believe we are in the final quarter of 2019? Time sure flies. With that said, I want to discuss our time in more detail. It seems everyone says the same things about time. For example, we are “buried, covered up, slammed, swamped,” etc.

Time is a gift. It is a present and the present. We cannot make time go faster or get it back. It does not matter how much money we have because we cannot buy MORE time. It is the great equalizer for all mankind.

We are human beings not human doings, but we behave more like computers with no off switch (I am talking to myself here, too). We have 24 hours a day and 7 days a week at our disposal. So, what do we do with our time? How do we focus on what is most important as we cannot get to all the things on our list?

I recommend deciding what things we are going to put on our “stop doing” list, so we can get to work on our “start doing” list. I suggest we slow down and reflect on what we want to do with this gift of time and focus on the person more than the technology. This approach is what I call Human2Human. People are more important than the next call, text, email, social media, or whatever distracts us from deep and meaningful conversations.

I am so thankful for the Our Town Gwinnett community. Our goal with this publication – and through our many digital and social media channels – is to continually provide you with much needed information about positive people, groups, events, and happenings that are covered almost nowhere else.

I wish you a wonderful and safe month. We may see 90 degrees and Halloween at the same time the way we are heading. Thank you for your attention and valuable time when reading my column each month. Finally, thank you for continuing with us on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

American Heritage Animal Hospital

Congratulations Eddies Auto Service you’re a Neighborhood Favorite!

~

Sarah Friar, Nextdoor CEO 1988 2019 4th Year in a row ! est.1988 Thank you Lilburn for Voting Eddie’s your Neighborhood Favorite for Auto Repairs, again! Eddie, Matt, Jamie, Aaron, Dustin & I are so blessed and grateful for you all. Until next time God Bless & angels watch over you and yours.

And I almost forgot, Special Thanks from ,. .

Max, George & Buster emember

Wanda

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PAGE 7

FREE Trick or Treating and Face Painting

Legal Talk: What Happens in a Will Contest

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We recently completed a trial in a will contest case where we represented a 95-year-old lady who left her 7-figure estate to friends and charities rather than to her next of kin. These relatives only visited occasionally and were not her caretakers. Some were even cut out of the will. After a four-day trial, the judge upheld the will.

There can be numerous grounds for contesting the will. The main three are as follows: was the will witnessed properly, was the testator of sound mind, and/or was undue influence used to influence the testator?

The will must be witnessed by two people. A notary is not required in the state of Georgia, but can be of benefit so that the witnesses are sworn in ahead of time and may not have to go to court later.

The testator must be of sound mind when the will is signed. This means he or she remembers relatives and assets. The distribution plan must be reasonable. The general purpose of a will must be understood.

The will must be signed voluntarily and by the testator’s own free will. It cannot be the product of undue influence. The court looks at several things in making this decision. Some of these include whether the testator has a strong mind, made unusually large gifts to nonfamily beneficiaries, and whether the testator was isolated from his or her other relatives. Participation in the planning of the will, or having other financial dealings with the testator, can be an indicator.

If the court finds the will was signed and witnessed properly, then the burden of proof is on the person contesting the will to establish one of the grounds for contesting the will.

Every case is different as they relate to will contests. A person can be of sound mind if they are forgetful in general, in the hospital, taking medications, old, even have been diagnosed with dementia. Their mind is sound if they show basic understanding of their assets, relatives, and purpose of the will.

Our firm is active in the preparation, probate, and litigation of wills, and we have had good success in these areas.

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Lawrenceville (678) 500-8007 Stone Mountain (678) 500-8717

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Business Matters: Magnolia Marketing Mama

By Traci Sanders

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Most entrepreneurs will agree that one of the most challenging aspects of running your own business is the marketing. There are multiple ways to get your brand in front of fresh eyes, but it’s not always easy deciding which route to take. Many entrepreneurs are spending numerous hours and thousands of dollars to keep up with the new technological age and methods of doing business, especially social media platforms. Let’s be honest. As much as we try to resist it, social media is not going away, and it is where potential customers are spending the majority of their time each day. Therefore, it’s a tool that all entrepreneurs must learn to navigate if they don’t want to be left behind in the world of business.

Thankfully, there are social media marketing experts in the world like Amanda Luton. Amanda is a work-at-home mom of three who found herself managing the marketing needs for her husband’s company about three years ago. Other local business owners took note of Amanda’s talent and contracted her services.

As word got out about Amanda’s talents, she gained more clients and Magnolia Marketing was born! With a small, hardworking team, Magnolia Marketing now services a wide variety of commercial clients by managing their website designs, branding needs, social media presence, and more.

The mission of Magnolia Marketing is to support small businesses in whatever professional needs they have. Some clients choose to let the Magnolia team handle all or certain pieces of their marketing and social media presence, but Amanda also strives to empower other entrepreneurs by educating them with tools and resources to handle most of their own marketing tasks. She encourages each one to become the face of their business, and states that it’s a crucial aspect of the branding process.

Working with female entrepreneurs and helping them build their brands is a great passion of Amanda’s. She knows first-hand how challenging it can be to balance raising a family and contributing monetarily to the household; and while she firmly believes a mother’s first priority is to her family, she teaches women that it’s okay to do other things that don’t revolve around the kids. “I want my children to know that they are undoubtedly the most important thing in my life, but they are not the only important thing.”

Amanda goes even further to help female entrepreneurs by offering videos, tips, and strategies for social media marketing in her Facebook Group, Motivated Marketing with MMG, which currently has almost 700 followers. She hosts local networking meetings and also partners with the Walton Chamber of Commerce to offer social media training.

As if all that weren’t enough to keep her busy, Amanda and her husband, a U.S. Air Force veteran and fellow entrepreneur, actively support the Veteran community, particularly Vetlanta and VEO, which offer job opportunities and resources to help homeless veterans rebuild their lives. These programs are near and dear to their hearts, as they feel that meeting the needs of our country’s veterans ought to be a top priority for everyone.

Amanda operates with an abundance mindset. She believes that women don’t need to compete with one another in business or life in general, for we each have our own special talents and gifts, and there are plenty of goodness and blessings to go around. When people see the name Magnolia Marketing, Amanda hopes that not just high-quality and innovative digital marketing come to mind, but also professional support and development for entrepreneurs, with a personal touch.

More information at www.themagnoliamarketinggroup.com

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Our Town Gwinnett

Sports Talk: Meridian Panthers Win Championship in Cooperstown

Gwinnett’s premier event destination for 20 years!

By Traci Sanders Fourteen players and four coaches with the Meridian Panthers had more than one reason to celebrate on July 4th this year.

In late June, the 12U travel team, many of whom have been playing together since tee ball, ventured to New York to compete for the championship title at the Cooperstown (N.Y.) Dream Park Tournament. Most of the families traveled individually. Others rode together and enjoyed some sights along the way, such as a quick visit to Washington D.C. or catching a Braves game in New York. The players and their families were also able to explore the downtown Cooperstown area and visit the Baseball Hall of Fame.

Several players collected donations and did fundraisers to cover their cost of the trip. Accommodations weren’t much to write home about. All players and coaches stayed in military-style barracks at the park – with no heat or AC. I spoke to one of the coaches and asked what the team had done to prepare for such a competition.

He stated that there are 104 teams that play each week. The Panthers went 6-0 in pool play, earning the 4 seed. They went on to win the semi-finals over the number one seed, Old Hickory Generals from Tennessee, with a score of 25-6. The Panthers finished the tournament with an 11-0 record.

Four games took place on the day of the championship. The kids were up by 6:20 a.m. to eat breakfast and hit the batting cages for pre-game practice. The first game started at 8:30 a.m., followed by a 12:00 p.m. game, and one at 3:00 p.m. as well. They all went to dinner at 6:00 p.m. by way of a special golf cart escort through the park to Little Majors Stadium that hosts the championships. The final two teams enjoyed a pre-game ceremony, which included fireworks and the National Anthem. First pitch for the championship game was at 9:25 p.m., making for a long day for the Meridian Panthers.

The Panthers’ final victory of the season came when they beat Dirtbags Baseball from North Carolina 6-2. Over the entire week the team scored 204 runs and allowed only 28 runs. They comContinued on page 12

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PAGE 11

Grand Opening October 12 - 13, 2019

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Sports Talk: Meridian Panthers Continued from page 11 bined to hit 69 home runs and only allowed 45 total hits, which resulted in only 8 home runs against them. Winning the championship earned the Meridian Panthers a 4-foot trophy and the satisfaction of becoming the Cooperstown Dreams Park Week 5 Champions, making them one of only a few teams from Georgia – over the past 20 years – to accomplish this achievement. The night concluded around 11:00 p.m. after celebratory pictures.

Due to the grueling championship schedule and the long trip back home, the team didn’t really get a chance to celebrate their win. They headed to the barracks to collect their belongings and check out to get on the road. The coaches stayed behind and did a final clean and sweep of the barracks.

Many of the players have since moved on to other 13U and 14U travel teams, but the Meridian Panthers will always have the memory of their championship win in Cooperstown, New York.

Members of the Meridian Panthers are Tyler Anglin, Porter Berryman, Landon Brooks, Evan Brown, Donnie Bryan, Mason Davis, Anthony Dye, Adrian Jimenez, Josh Layton, Yanni McDuffie, Smith McGarvey, Elijah Miller, L.B. Roldan, Blake Russell, and Alex Young. The Panthers are coached by Stevie Berryman, Brent Davis, John McGarvey, Philip Mazzara, Nick Andrews, and Tim Young.

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Making a Difference: Two Organizations Come Together for Family Fun

By Amy Ney Nothing happens by chance or by good luck. And two organizations in Lilburn are intentional about making the community the best place to live. “While most people need to be part of a community for life’s necessities,” says Lilburn’s Main Street Manager Brian Burchik, “most people want to be part of a community because there is something indescribably appealing about being a part of a group of people who share something more substantial than geographical location – something they feel passionately about.

Lilburn has always been a strong community. We know that events where the whole family can come out and participate are great for building community. That’s why we’re partnering with NG3 to host a Downtown Lilburn 5K and Fun Run.” The Lilburn Downtown Development Authority oversees the Main Street Initiative that is committed to providing positive economic, social, and physical improvements to the city’s downtown while preserving its historical character. The 5K and Fun Run planned for Saturday, October 26th will benefit NG3 Parkview and the Main Street Lilburn Initiative.

The race is a qualifier for the Peachtree Road Race, and the first 250 race participants will receive a shirt. “We will have a 5K and a Fun Run as well as a Tot-Trot,” explains NG3 Director, Javier Muñoz. “The focus of NG3 is to develop character in high school students, invest time in the lives of these young people, and lead them to serve and impact their communities in a positive way, making Lilburn a great place to live and work and grow up.”

Medals will be awarded for top runners in the 5K and the Fun Run. Kids are encouraged, but not required, to wear their Halloween costumes since there will be awards for best costumes as well.

Participants are encouraged to pre-register for the event. The 5K will begin at 9:30 a.m. and the children’s events at 10:30 a.m. This year’s race is presented by Chick-fil-A Lilburn.

“We hope all of Lilburn’s families and businesses will want to be a part of the morning,” said Muñoz. “I live in Lilburn. I think it’s great. And I think it’s great because of all the people who work hard to make events like these a success.”

More information at https://runsignup.com/Race/GA/Lilburn/5KNG3 or javier@ng3.org.

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Getting to Know: Derrick & Brooke Heberling of NG3 Brookwood

By Amy Ney Being the change you want to see in the world is what Derrick and Brooke Heberling are all about. “You can either tell me who made an impact in your life as a young student, or you will probably tell me you wish you had someone like that,” Derrick explains. He is the new director of NG3 at Brookwood High School. NG3’s mission is to invest in the lives of students through intentional relationship building, serving the community, and providing an opportunity for spiritual growth. “One of our core values is that students need more people, not more programs,” says Derrick.

Brooke and Derrick joke that were they only two singles in New Hope, Mississippi where they met. He was the Boys Basketball Coach and she taught freshman language arts. “Our students got us together,” Derrick says with a laugh. After getting married, the Heberlings returned to Gwinnett County where Brooke grew up. She is the freshman language arts teacher at Brookwood High School. He was coaching basketball at Hebron Christian Academy when Derrick said he heard the

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call from God to leave coaching and serve students more directly. “I had heard about NG3 twice in about a 12-hour period and I knew that I needed to listen.”

As the NG3 director, Derrick sees his role as twofold: teaching character lessons to students; and connecting adults to students as mentors. “Be it parents, business leaders, community members, or grandparents, I facilitate and align them in roles as mentors,” explains Derrick. “So often adults will say they are not good with kids or they don’t have enough time. But it’s not true.” Derrick knows that loneliness and not belonging is what students struggle with most. “What matters is loving these kids,” he continues. “To have an adult who believes in them, that they can trust to do what they say they will do and show up when they say they will. That’s all they need.”

Now, on any given Tuesday night, the entire Heberling family, Derrick and Brooke and their two kids, are, as the Heberlings describe it, “doing life” check ad for ALL content.

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Derrick asked who he was Assume nothing Reply back that is approved once nothing -BEEN Reply back thatguardian. adFOR is approved once going home to, Joel shared that his 26-year-old brother is his They left his mom and ALLAssume ITEMS HAVE CHECKED ACCURACY. ALLITEMS ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY. HAVE BEEN FOR twin sister to help their familyALL financially. “His mom andCHECKED his sister are stillACCURACY. up north,” Derrick adds. “‘Family’ for him now also includes us. He’s just one of many reasons why I love doing what I do.”

On Mondays, Joel walks over to their home after practice. The two children greet him as he walks up the drive, both vying for his attention. The other students arrive, and Derrick begins a lesson about God’s love as they dig into a big home-cooked meal. “It’s important not to talk at students,” Derrick says. “They want to learn. But they need you to listen, too.” And it isn’t just Derrick and Brooke who are listening, but their seven year old, Graham, too. “He shares his ideas,” Continued on page 15

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Derrick & Brooke Heberling Continued from page 14 Derrick explains. “And the students listen and give him feedback. They support him, and he is their biggest fan. It isn’t just Brookwood students who are blessed by this. I am, Brooke is, and our kids are, too.” Joel hangs around afterwards to make slime with Anna Blue and play Mario Kart with Graham. He likes having another family to do life with and is reluctant to leave.

NG3 has a great need for people, as there truly is a place for every kind of volunteer. “We need people to show up and mentor students,” Derrick says. “We need homes, especially near the school, that students can walk to and meet in. We need food to feed the students. Maybe you can donate a meal,” he says with a laugh. “Or several.” Students know they can stop by Brooke’s room for a snack if they need one, or if they need someone to listen to them or share great news with.

“We need people to donate money to financially assist with this work, and we need drivers to transport kids,” adds Derrick. “Kids need rides all the time: to practice, to NG3, to church. Joel’s brother works on Sunday mornings, and Joel shared that he couldn’t get to church. I told him that wasn’t a going to be a problem anymore. Now, each week, he rides with us.” Brooke adds, “NG3 is changing lives. We’ve seen it firsthand. This group is THE BEST part of our week.”

More information at derrick@ng3.org or https://www.ng3.org/

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Going Beyond the Ribbon with Bobbie Menneg

By Traci Sanders It’s a six-letter word that no one wants to hear; yet according to the American Cancer Society, one in three Americans will get some form of cancer in their lifetime. The most common type is breast cancer, with 271, 270 new cases expected in the United States in 2019. It’s also the second leading cause of death in women.

However, many women survive breast cancer, some more than once in their lives. Such is the case for one Lawrenceville woman named Bobbie Menneg. Bobbie was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer called Triple Negative about eight years ago. She underwent two surgeries, six rounds of chemo, and thirty-three radiations, and is now cancer-free.

Bobbie chose to fight her cancer all the way, and then decided to turn her experience and victory into a resource for others who are dealing with various forms of cancer. She started her journey volunteering at events such as Relay for Life and the Susan G. Komen walk, but she realized that there were women in her own town who needed more immediate help.

Bobbie wanted to find a way to make a more personal impact on others, so she created a nonprofit (501c3) organization called Beyond the Ribbon, whose mission is “to advocate for support and resources beyond the diagnosis of cancer to educate, inspire hope, cultivate awareness, and empower individuals throughout their journey and beyond.”

The organization has a Board of Directors in place – all of whom have been affected by cancer in some form – but Bobbie takes her position to another level by personally visiting the homes of cancer patients to support them through the physical and emotional parts of their journeys in whatever way she can. Sometimes that means taking meals to families, washing their dishes while she’s visiting, and even holding back their hair when they are sick from the chemo effects.

When I asked Bobbie to describe how it feels to go through these symptoms during cancer treatContinued on page 18

Pet Perch: Top Tips for Responsible Dog Ownership

By Terie Hansen When we think about responsible dog ownership, we think of providing food, shelter, veterinary care, and love. But being a responsible dog owner goes way beyond those minimum requirements.

Ask yourself: How am I providing for my dog’s mental health and well-being? How am I and my dog impacting others? The environment? Check out these top tips for responsible dog ownership.

Can I Get a Walk, Walk? Regular exercise is a must for dogs to help keep them fit and healthy both physically and mentally.

Poop Patrol: This is a biggie. Picking up after your dog while on walks is the responsible thing to do. Dog poop carries disease and intestinal parasites.

Who Are You? Who, Who, Who, Who? : Properly ID your dog. Even if your dog is microchipped, a collar and tags are a must.

Escape from Alcatraz: Secure Your Yard. Dogs shouldn’t be left out in a yard unattended. They are dogs! They dig, jump, and get out typically out of boredom.

If You Like It, Then You Better Put a Leash On it: Unless your dog is fully trained and under 100% voice control, you should always have a leash on your dog while out walking in public areas, neighborhoods, parks, etc.

Animal Control: I’m talking Spay and Neuter people.

Baby, It’s Cold Outside (or Hot)! Leaving a dog outside in extreme weather is dangerous. Every year dogs die of heat exhaustion and hypothermia.

Stop, Drop, and Stay: Training, one of the most important aspects of responsible dog ownership, is a critical component of a happy, healthy, and safe dog. It can literally save a life. Dogs practicing bad behaviors are not at their happiest and are often nervous, anxious, or even dangerous.

Responsible dog ownership is more than just food, shelter, and love. It’s about you, your dog, and those around you. Following these tips will have you and your dog living your best life. Complete article at https://gooddogcoaching.com/10-tips-for-responsible-dog-ownership/ Terie Hansen is Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More information at www.gooddogcoaching.com

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By Ron Lambros When I first heard someone mention The Quinn House, I envisioned a picturesque Bed-and-Breakfast Inn in the North Georgia Mountains, or a venue for wedding receptions or special occasions. I was never so wrong!

For almost thirty years, The Quinn House has been a haven for the lost, the desperate, and the misguided, and those seeking compassion, a caring community, and a fresh start. And, for almost thirty years, they have found it there.

Founded by Carrol and John Quinn, The Quinn House has grown, as have the needs of those who seek its services.

Though long deceased, the Quinns’ vision and mission continues today with a small, but dedicated staff, board of directors, and numerous volunteers, who work diligently and skillfully to continue the dream the Quinns envisioned.

Among an impressive number of resources and services offered, the ministry is most proud of its drug and alcohol rehabilitation and housing for men, its food distribution programs, and its Christmas project for kids.

Community Relations Director Pat Smokes says, “We are a ministry, not a business. What we offer is direction and guidance for living a Christ-like life, learning responsibility and structure, making good choices, and becoming a vital member of a ‘family.’” And no one can argue with its success.

“The food distribution program gave out close to a million pounds of food last year,” she says.

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Continued on page 21

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Bobbie Menneg Continued from page 16

ment, she replied, “It’s like being thrown onto a freight train going a hundred miles per hour, then once treatment stops, you’re on your own. It’s almost as if the cancer treatment and appointments are your security blanket. When it’s over, you don’t really know what to do next.”

One way that Beyond the Ribbon addresses the immediate needs for these people is through a Our Day Center offers fun activities, delicious meals, program weekly called Jane’s Closet, which distributes short-term provisions of non-perishable foods, gift outings, and companionship. We have licensed nursing staff whogas cards, and financial support for bills. Without this type of assistance, some patients and cards, theirAt families will go without proper nourishment, shelter, and medical care. ensure your loved one receives the health related care they need.

Our Day Center offers fun activities, delicious internal component of Beyond the Ribbon is called Journey Bags, which are basically McKinley Community Care, we provide exceptional senior Another care care packages that consist of comfort items such as blankets, journal and pen, water bottle, lip meals, weekly outings, and companionship. with love. balm, hand sanitizer, hard candies, and a handwritten note of encouragement.

Our Day Center offers fun activities, delicious meals, weekly We have licensed nursing staff who ensure McKinley Community Care provides Music & Memory Bobbie’s and greatest joy comes in helping people navigate the next steps in their lives and helping outings, and companionship.

We have licensed staffrelated who care Rehab Therapy. your loved one receivesnursing the health them learn to not live like victims but rather like victors. Even though Bobbie orchestrates several fundraisers to aid her in this mission, she continually pours a great deal of her own money into this ensure your loved one receives the health related care they need.Care At Funding and available. they need.

At transportation McKinley Community organization to make all these things happen.

McKinley Community Care, we provide exceptional senior care HOURS: Monday through Friday 7am – 6pm we provide exceptional senior care with love.

Bobbie also created a Facebook support group called Circle of Friends, comprised of pre-vivors with love. (those who are taking preventative measures for cancer), survivors, patients, and nurses. This is a McKinley Community Care provides Music To schedule agroup visit, call where anyone affected by cancer can receive emotional support and learn about resources to McKinley Community Care provides Music & Memory and assist them in their personal journey with whatever form of cancer they are experiencing.

678.691.1610 & Memory and Rehab Therapy. local woman, Aura-Leigh Sanders, said, “Bobbie’s work to help cancer patients and their Rehab Therapy.

1567 JanmarOne Road Suite 200in our community is so important. When I started my journey as a cancer pre-vivor almost families Funding and transportation available.

Funding and transportation available.

Snellville, GA two30078 years ago, she was right there with resources and support whenever I needed it, and I am so info@mckinleyga.com grateful for her. She knows firsthand what it’s like to fight cancer. She is truly amazing for what she Monday through Friday 7am – 6pm HOURS: Monday throughHOURS: Friday 7am – 6pm www.mckinleyga.com does and what she gives to so many people in Gwinnett.”

Even though Bobbie pounds the pavement nearly every day of the week, building relationships with local business owners and asking for their support, funds need to be constantly replenished To schedule a visit, call and every little bit helps provide the personal and financial support that cancer patients and sur678.691.1610 vivors need.

1567 Janmar Road When I asked Bobbie for one word or phrase that she would like to share on behalf of those Suite 200 affected by cancer, she simply replied, “Don’t treat me differently and don’t be afraid to ask quesSnellville, GA 30078 tions. Cancer is something I have, it’s not who I am.”

Private donations are always accepted and Bobbie arranges frequent events for the locals to enjoy info@mckinleyga.com some entertainment and support this worthy cause. www.mckinleyga.com More information at www.beyondtheribboninc.org

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Our Town Gwinnett ETERNAL HILLS FUNERAL HOME & CREMATION SNELLVILLE spacer

We are THE SHERIDAN AT EASTSIDE

And we would LOVE TO MEET YOU! Senior Lifestyle is bringing upscale retirement living to Snellville, Georgia.

Come and get a glimpse of Snellville’s newest retirement community with a sneak peek of our rental villas.

Our waitlist is growing every day for November Opening Call 770-575-8829 for your appointment today!

THE SHERIDAN

Villa Open House Weekend Saturday & Sunday, October 19th & 20th 1:00pm to 3:00pm

Our Town Gwinnett

INDEPENDENT LIVING ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 1900 TREE LANE | SNELLVILLE, GA 30078 SHERIDANEASTSIDE.COM

Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

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At this bewitching time of the year, go

on an evening adventure for a “tour” with ghosts.

You will meet six professional storytellers as they spin spooky tales of Southern ghosts along the lantern lit paths of the South’s most authentic haunted plantation.

Hi Located at the Historic Square at GEORGIA’S STONE MOUNTAIN PARK Thursdays & Sundays 7 - 9 p.m.

Fridays & Saturdays 7- 9:30 p.m. $8 Child $17 Adult, Sponsored by

discounted presale tickets available at ART Station

www.artstation.org PAGE 20

Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

770-469-1105 Our Town Gwinnett

The Quinn House Continued from page 17 Smokes adds, “In addition to helping hundreds of families, we know that senior citizens run low on money toward the end of the month, so we give them food to help them make it until their next Social Security check arrives. The line forms all day long, and we simply walk up to the car, give them food, and off they go – appreciative and relieved for another month.”

The Quinn House drug and alcohol rehabilitation and housing center for men is located in an Let our team of real estate unassuming, renovated home in Lawrenceville. You have probably passed it a dozen times, and professionals help you with your would never imagine the life-changing work going on inside. Walking through the front door, real estate needs. there is an air of peace and calm, which belies the chaos that is often happening in the men’s lives who temporarily reside there. There are offices with volunteers answering the phones, all of whom 2017 have been through the program personally. There is also a wall with pictures of the success stories in the individual portraits of those who made it through the program.

But it wasn’t always easy.

• 130 transactions closed “Make no mistake about it, our program is very rigid,” Smokes emphatically states. “We have Average 31 days on market very strict rules, structure, and demands; but if you really want to,• you can overcome your addiction with God’s help and our direction.”

• Our listings sold for 98.36% of I met James, one of the success stories. Like many who have gone through the program, he list price works in the ministry’s thrift store. “The men go through a 40-day program,” he explains. “At the end of the 40 days, if you’re clean and show commitment to recovery, you can stay at the house Call today to put our proven track for up to six additional months at no charge. Food and shelter, alongrecord to work for you. with solid Bible study, are provided. I’ve seen men leave with apartments, jobs, and transportation, all because they could save up money to begin again.”

Kathy Coots 770 654-8972 Smokes also manages The Quinn House Thrift Store, which provides revenue for the ministry programs. She personally gives haircuts to the men, as well as overseeswww.KathyCoots.com the worship services held weekly in the store chapel. As much as she loves the store, her heart is for the children of the families needing assistance, especially at Christmas. “Last year, we provided Christmas for over 2,000 children!” she says. “Schools, businesses, and corporate sponsors, all voluntarily gave to the children. It was incredible! I hope we do more this year. We just need more volunteers and those willing to adopt a child. There’s nothing like it! Many of these children have no father in their life.

The Quinn House offers them a ‘family’ and a Heavenly Father they can trust and believe in. You just see God in everything we do, and I’m blessed to be a part of it all.”

As Pat walked back to her office and I was leaving, I spotted a framed picture of Carrol and John Quinn on top of a bookcase, overlooking the store. I had to smile and whisper, “Did you ever imagine all this?” I think the Quinns would be pleased, very pleased!

More information at thequinnhouse.com.

Let our team of real estate professionals help you with your real estate needs.

2018 • 122 closed transactions Let our team of real estate •professionals help you with your Average 29 days on market real estate needs.

• Our listings sold for 2017 97.08% of list price • 130 transactions closed • Average 31 days on market • Our listings sold for 98.36% of Kathy Coots list price

Call today to put our proven track 770 654-8972 record to work for you.

www.KathyCoots.com Kathy Coots 770 654-8972 www.KathyCoots.com

Call today to put our proven track record to work for you.

EVENTS ON THE SNELLVILLE TOWNE GREEN

Sept. 14 • 4-8 p.m. Sept. 28 • 6-9 p.m. Oct. 4 • 4-8 p.m.

The Ultimate Food Experience

Enjoy great food from over 20 restaurants and food vendors. Listing on website.

Metro Jazz Club 4-8 p.m.

Fun Kids Zone • Great Door Prizes!

Lincoln Fill Station • Dragon Queen Winery

FREE CONCERT

The Stranger Billy Joel Tribute 7-9 p.m.

Featuring

Opening Act J. Kyle Reynolds 6-7 p.m.

FOOD - BEER - WINE available for purchase Reserved Tables for 8 - $150 Register Online at SnellvilleEvents.com

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY

seen on • Cousins Maine Lobster (As ‘Shark Tank’) • Tex’s Tacos • The Patty Wagon • Deep South Biscuit Co. Fun and • Hole in the Wall Games with • Exotic Que • 6 Pack Subs Vietnamese DJ LEE! • Triple J’s Pizza • Not So Famous Cookies • Kona Ice

www.SnellvilleEvents.com Our Town Gwinnett

Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

PAGE 21

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When it expert. comes to your home with repairs, or even insurance replacements or even insurance Weexpert. have the to help you Weprofessionals have thereplacements professionals towith helprepairs, you perimetercares.org you need a company that is fully claims for storm damaged roofs. claims for storm damaged roofs. withcertified repairs, replacements or even insurance with repairs, replacements or even insurance insured and before you let anyone put your hard earned storm roofs. claimsdamaged for storm damaged roofs. home atclaims risk. Herefor at Perimeter Roofing we have the experts and trained roofing techs that have years of experience in the roofing business. We are fully insured to work on any size project no matter how big or small.

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More than 30 Years of Helping People with their Money Roger S. Green, MSFS, CFP® Green Financial Resources, LLC

With more than 30 years of experience helping people with their money through the tough times and the good times, and teaching retirement planning classes since 1997, Roger is highly qualified to assist with all of your financial and investment planning needs.

Call 770.931.1414 today to schedule a no cost, no obligation consultation covering a wide range of topics including:

• Financial and retirement planning • Intergenerational planning • Investment allocation for long term growth potential • Financial protection for dependents • Planning for potential incapacity • Determining when you can retire • Maximizing your existing 401k/403b/457b

• • • • • • •

Retirement withdrawal advice Estate Planning/Trust Planning Long Term Care, Disability & Life Insurance Medicare IRA/Roth contributions Timing of Social Security And more

Pu t th is te

am to work f

! ou y or

Retirement planning classes offered at Gwinnett Technical college.

Visit www.RogerSGreen.com for upcoming class information.

Investment Advisor Representative offering securities & advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial, Gwinnett Tech & Cetera Advisors are not affiliated.

Awards are not to be considered a guarantee of future results, nor as an endorsement by any client. Best of Gwinnett winners are chosen via voting and editors’ input, & opinions are vetted with the use of other available information.

Pinnacle award rankings are based on growth, revenue, community service, & other criteria. Barron’s: based on total assets (AUM), revenue, & other factors. Office located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy, Ste 140, Duluth, GA 30096.

PAGE 22

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Our Town Gwinnett

The Village Corner

German Restaurant, Bakery & Tavern We are a full-service bakery, restaurant, and tavern specializing in German cuisine.

t s e f r e b o t Ok 2019 6655 James B Rivers Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30083

(770) 498-0329

Hours Of Operation: Tuesday - Friday 9am-10pm Saturday 8am-11pm Sunday 10am-9pm Closed Monday

Live German Music Games and Prizes

Saturday Oct. 5 Saturday Oct. 12

G e rmanRestau rant.com

At BenchMark, your journey is our journey, and we’re committed to getting you back to your best.

That’s why our licensed physical therapists use manual therapy, a hands-on technique that’s proven to get better outcomes so you can start moving and feeling better faster.

Our 99% patient satisfaction rate speaks for itself. Choose better outcomes.

Choose BenchMark.

Call your local BenchMark today to set up an evaluation.

BUFORD I-85 2815 Buford Dr, Ste 102 (770) 271-4413

LAWRENCEVILLE 4825 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Ste C (678) 985-0238

LILBURN – BEAVER RUIN 4145 Lawrenceville Hwy NW, Ste 8 (678) 691-7163

GRAYSON 2065 Grayson Hwy, Ste B (678) 376-0213

LILBURN 1227 Rockbridge Rd, Ste 402 (770) 925-9210

SNELLVILLE 2050 Scenic Hwy N, Ste A (678) 344-7197 SNELLVILLE CENTERVILLE HWY 124 3641 Centerville Hwy, Ste 400 (470) 365-2135

Our Town Gwinnett

Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

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