Lilburn
Seen in Gwinnett
Emil’s Photos of the Month
On the Cover: Getting to Know We Are Dynamic, Inc.
By Kristen Eleveld
When it comes to understanding and caring for our teenagers, many parents find themselves unsure of the best step to take, especially when it comes to mental and emotional wellbeing. Fortunately for the Gwinnett community, one mom-and-daughter team are stepping up to not only reach out to at-risk teens, but to provide the community with a safe, supportive opportunity to shine bright.
Alongside a dedicated team of people who are seeking to empower local youth, President Chiquita Duker and Vice President Jiquita Harmon of We are Dynamic, Inc. have made it their mission to give at-risk teenagers resources to help them overcome mental health challenges.
“We want parents and kids to know that there is beauty on the other side,” said Jiquita. “We can help them take steps to become better people.”
While the organization is rooted in Christian values, everyone from every background is welcome inside the doors of We Are Dynamic, Inc. And the opportunities waiting on the other side of those doors are life-changing for teenagers and parents alike.
One such opportunity is their mentorship program, where they pair up teenagers with volunteers who can help them navigate some of life’s difficult challenges. They also host parent workshops each month that are designed to give parents some important information to consider on specific mental health topics for their teenager.
“We just had a parent workshop that gave parents insight on how their teens might be feeling as they navigate their mental health journey,” said Chiquita. “We are here to support parents to help them recognize signs of mental health struggles and to educate them on the resources they have.”
Parents also benefit from the We Are Dynamic podcast, which is dedicated to “empowering minds, one conversation at a time.” These podcasts are created to educate parents on topics that could affect their teen—topics they might not even be aware of.
We Are Dynamic, Inc. does not provide counseling onsite. However, they have worked hard to partner with many local counseling resources and are always happy to give you a referral to get teenagers the help they need.
As We Are Dynamic, Inc. works to offer much-needed resources to their community, they continue to rely on local partnerships to ensure their mission is accomplished.
One such partnership is with Gwinnett County, which is working with the We Are Dynamic team to provide referrals for mentors. This important role is filled by local volunteers who are willing to walk alongside teenagers who are struggling and offer them guidance and support.
If the mentorship program does not feel like the right fit but you still want to help, there are plenty of opportunities to do so. We Are Dynamic, Inc. is always looking for volunteers to help with different events and activities. They are also looking for professional help with filming and editing their podcast to allow them to increase their reach to parents seeking support in Gwinnett.
“One of the biggest ways you can help is to spread the word about what we do!” said Jiquita. “We really want to be able to help our community.”
Since We Are Dynamic, Inc. funds their events and activities themselves,
Continued on page 9
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
Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com
Editor
Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com
Cover
IN THIS ISSUE
5 On the Cover: Getting to Know We Are Dynamic, Inc.
7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
7 Get Ready for Soups and Ciders – It’s Officially Fall!
8 Expert Tips to Organize Your Home for Fall
8 Lilburn Farmers Market Gets into the Holiday Spirit
9 Rainbow Village Announces Groundbreaking and Expansion
10 Four Trends in Transforming Your Kitchen in 2025
11 Snellville Spotlight: FY26 Budget Approval and More
11 Perspective…A Word for Your Day
13 Family Remains the Key Ingredient at Mellow Mushroom Snellville
14 Walton Court Booster Station Serving Snellville and the Surrounding area
15 One Man’s Opinion: Does Anyone Remember Work Ethic?
Seen in Gwinnett — Emil’s Photos of the Month, see pages 4 & 11
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
We live in a world where everything seems to shout, “go faster.” Every ping, notification, and social update seems to whisper, “You’re behind.” But maybe, just maybe, the healthiest thing we can do this month is… miss out.
Get Ready for Soups and Ciders – It’s Officially Fall!
By Tana Poncsak
Change is good, right? Many say change is inevitable. And when the seasons change, the weather isn’t the only thing that changes. You may also notice a difference in food, clothing, routines, and activities. And after the hot days of summer, fall is often a welcomed change!
Here are some easy things you can do to embrace the fall season.
Yes, I said it. JOMO — the Joy of Missing Out — might be the best fall trend of 2025. While everyone else is chasing the next “must-do” or “can’t-miss” event, JOMO encourages us to pause, breathe, and prioritize peace over pressure.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I love being active, involved, and connected — I always have. But somewhere along the way, “busy” became a badge of honor. We fill every hour, every scroll, every thought, until rest starts feeling like a guilty pleasure instead of a necessity. Does this sound familiar?
I’m still learning that you can’t pour from an empty cup. You can’t lead others — in business, family, or community — if you’re constantly running on fumes. The truth is, saying no isn’t selfish; it’s strategic. Missing out on what doesn’t matter creates space for what does.
So, this season, as the world speeds up, what if you slowed down? What if you skipped the noise to make room for genuine connection — with your people, passions, and even yourself? I’ve found that when we say “no” to the nonessential, we say “yes” to something better: clarity, creativity, and calm.
We don’t always have to chase the next thing to succeed. Sometimes, success is found in quiet moments — during that evening walk, at an uninterrupted family dinner, or in those rare times when you leave your phone on the counter and just live.
Here’s my reminder (for you and for me): Let’s swap FOMO (fear of missing out) for JOMO. Let’s find joy in being present instead of feeling @RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
Continued on page 13
Food
When it comes to food, fall is generally the season to pull out the recipes for warm, hearty soups and stews, and to replace your frozen concoctions with warm teas and hot apple cider.
Relish in the taste of seasonal vegetables and enjoy the robust flavors of roasted acorn and butternut squash. And don’t forget the pumpkin!
For the home
Make some small changes to the decor in your home to celebrate the season. Change out your sofa pillows with some that have fall colors or themes. Add a fall wreath to your front door.
Replace summer smelling candles for some with autumn fragrances such as apples and cinnamon. Or fill your home with the smell of autumn with a big pot of hot apple cider simmering on the stove.
Activities
With the cooler temperatures, people still want to get outside and enjoy the cooler weather. Fun fall activities include:
Apple picking – We’re lucky in that apple picking is just a short drive away. And with those apples, you can bake my grandmother’s Apple Cake – a family favorite.*
Take in a nearby festival or chili cook off – Many metro areas hold festivals to celebrate the community and welcome the season.
It won’t be long before the greenery of summer will give way to the beautiful Continued on page 15
Expert Tips to Organize Your Home for Fall
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
From the walk-in closet to the kitchen pantry, catch-all spots make all the difference in daily routines – but only if they’re kept neat. Family organizing expert Jessica Litman, also known as “The Organized Mama,” is on a mission to help families declutter and stay organized. She’s sharing her pro tips for getting your home in shape for this busy time of year.
Clear Away Cabinet Clutter: ‘Tis the season for autumn chili, stew, and other comfort foods. That means it’s also time to put your essential slow cookers and pans where you can reach them so that food prep will be hassle-free. “When the weather starts to cool, I swap out summer cookware for winter bakeware,” says Litman. “I put the grilling items in the back of the cabinet and pull the turkey roaster and baking dishes to the front.” For added storage, Litman recommends using a shelf rack or vertical organizer to keep cutting boards and pie pans easily accessible.
Prep the Pantry: Create a system that gives grab-and-go snacks and cooking
necessities a home. This will help keep the kitchen tidy amid busy work and school schedules. “Do a pantry cleanout,” Litman says. “Remove everything from the area and wipe down the shelves. Take the canned goods you didn’t eat and donate them to a local food bank.”
Use a combination shelf liner and new containers to restore order to the
Continued on page 14
Lilburn Farmers Market Gets into the Holiday Spirit
By Jenna Cooper
As the season of holiday traditions approaches, the Lilburn Farmers Market is ready to celebrate with its own annual tradition: the holiday pop-up market.
The pop-up will take place on Saturday, November 22, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church in Lilburn, and will offer seasonal fruits and vegetables, baked goods, hand-crafted items, tractor rides, and even a chance to meet Santa Claus.
The holiday market is a special extension of the summer farmers market, which has been a staple of the Lilburn community for sixteen years as the only Fridayevening market in Gwinnett County. To stay connected with their patrons once the summer season has passed, local farmers, vendors, and artists trade out their summer goods for their fall harvests, pumpkin-flavored breads, and cozy-scented candles.
“A few years ago, our customers and our vendors really wanted to continue connecting with the people that they’ve been buying from and selling to,” said
Continued on page 12
Rainbow Village Announces Groundbreaking and Expansion
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Between the growing need among unhoused families and the proven role of transitional housing in bridging the gap between homelessness and self-sufficiency, Metro Atlanta’s Rainbow Village is endeavoring to expand its scope. The nonprofit’s “Building Homes, Building Hope” Capital Campaign, launched in 2024, will generate enough funds to expand its Duluth campus, more than doubling the number of families it can serve. After successfully acquiring land adjacent to its existing campus late last year, Rainbow Village began the quest for a contractor to bring its vision to life.
Lubin Enterprises has been selected to lead construction on two new apartment buildings that will provide safe and secure housing for up to thirty-six additional families in crisis. Project partners also include the architects at Axis Companies and the project managers at Collaborative Housing Solutions.
“We are incredibly grateful to Lubin Enterprises, Axis Companies, Collaborative Housing Solutions, and everyone else who has embarked on this journey with us as we seek to transform the lives of families in need,” said Melanie Conner, CEO of Rainbow Village. “We are so proud of what we’ve accomplished together to date, and we’re excited about the impact yet to come. Before we even break ground on this expansion, we’re already well on our way, having tapped our contractor and project partners. In addition to donations and the amazing support from Gwinnett County and our wonderful board of directors, we’ve been awarded several foundation grants, including an endowment from the Schoen Foundation. We’re at 73% of our goal, but there’s still much to do.”
Estimated to take roughly a year from the ground-breaking to complete the expansion of the nonprofit’s campus, Conner added, “While Lubin Enterprises tackles the Building Homes aspect of our Capital Campaign, Rainbow Village will focus on the Building Hope element of the equation. My team and I will continue to raise funds to ensure that every family housed in our new apartments receives dedicated resident support services, mental health counseling, life skills development, and free access to Rainbow Village Academy—including after-school care, digital learning days, and summer programming. In addition to housing for up to two years at a modest rent, they will receive utility and internet services at no additional cost, so they can focus on rebuilding their
savings and knocking out debt. Beyond the cost of construction, a portion of the campaign funds has been earmarked for staffing, programming, family services, and ongoing maintenance of the entire campus to ensure a safe and healthy living and working environment.”
More information at https://rainbowvillage.org/.
We Are Dynamic Continued
from page 5
they also accept financial contributions to allow them to reach as many people as possible.
If you have a teenager who would benefit from the resources offered by We Are Dynamic, Inc., or if you want to volunteer to help, the process is easy. Just go to their website or give them a call, and they will work with you on going to the next steps.
And if you want to see what We Are Dynamic, Inc. is about firsthand, check out their Art & Vibe event happening on October 25th! There will be painting and refreshments and plenty of opportunities to get to know more about the vital need that this organization fills.
“If you need us, just reach out,” said Chiquita. “Email, website, a phone call—just tell us what you need and we will connect with you.”
More information at https://www.wearedynamicinc.org/, or (770) 888-5661
SOUND
Four Trends in Transforming Your Kitchen in 2025
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s where you gather with loved ones for meals and conversations, making memories and traditions. To achieve these connections (while still preparing delicious meals), warmth and a welcoming atmosphere are key.
If you’re concerned about being out of step with the modern and minimalist design trends of recent years, consider this: experts have observed a growing desire among clients for cozier and warmer designs. Are you interested in updating your kitchen while staying on trend? Here are four upcoming trends from design experts across the country who can help you step into the new year on trend.
1. Luxury through personalization: While homeowners seek a luxurious feel for their kitchens, they don’t want them to be exactly like those of their neighbors, friends, and family members. Instead, there is a desire among clients for personalization while still maintaining a luxe style.
“I am seeing a shift toward extremely personal customization,” said Jennifer Hutton, Creative Director and Principal Designer at Grau Design Studio. “That’s anything from bespoke storage options to specialized cabinet interiors to an emphasis on personal hobbies like creating craft cocktails, baking, or even using certain types of cooking equipment.”
Andrea Harvey, founder of ASH Interiors and Design, has also noted that homeowners want to add personal lifestyle details to their kitchen design.
“As always, luxury is about personalization,” said Harvey. “Luxury clients want their spaces to be uniquely theirs. They want details that are all about how they live. They would prefer to be ‘the only one’ than feel they are copying their neighbor or friend.”
2. A return to color and warmth: Gone are the days of bright whites and cold neutrals. Increasingly, clients are seeking to infuse color and warmth into their kitchen spaces.
“No more gray!” said Ariana Lovato, Founder and Principal Designer of Honeycomb Home Design. “Warm tones and oak finishes will still prevail next year, but people are not shying away from color when it comes to an island or perimeter cabinetry.” Hutton has also had clients ask for a darker, warmer aesthetic with textural and colorful interest. “I see luxury kitchen trends taking a
turn to a deeper, moodier style, a far cry from the bright white, pristine kitchens from a few years ago,” said Hutton. “My clients are looking for unique marbles, lots of texture, organic materials, and rich colors.”
3. Multiple zones: Recent home kitchen designs have mimicked the style and functionality of professional kitchens, providing all the essentials in one place. However, homes are already departing from this modern trend.
“We anticipate our luxury clients’ desire for ‘multiple zones’ to continue to strongly impact 2025 kitchen design,” said Linda Engler, founder of Engler Studio. “By multiple zones, I mean specific function areas beyond a primary kitchen: coffee and beverage stations, prep kitchens, sculleries, and baking centers.”
Engler went on to say that the multiple-zone approach uses a variation of materials and finishes, distinguishing these stations from the primary kitchen visually.
Due to these zones, designers and clients can expect an increase in appliances, as each zone will require its own package. Another aspect of multiple zones is that homeowners are rediscovering the kitchen as a gathering place.
“It’s an exciting time in kitchen design because we’re starting to see a shift from the super sterile modern kitchen,” said Lovato. “Clients want islands that have wrap-around seating for casual conversations and built-in seating options like a nook or a custom banquette attached to the back of an island.”
4. Transitional design: Are you stuck between designing a modern or traditional kitchen? You can have the best of both worlds by aiming for a transitional design aesthetic. The term “transitional design” can be challenging to define, but it generally encompasses a style that incorporates modern elements, such as clean, sleek lines, with traditional details that are homey and welcoming.
“I view transitional design as the bridge that connects traditional and modern,” said Engler. “It’s the middle ground between two extremes.”
A simple yet effective way to combine modern and traditional kitchen design is through careful hardware and appliance choices.
“Things like faucet style, hardware, and light fixtures are examples of elements that can read as transitional and can be switched out over time if needed,” said Hutton. “Appliance style also plays a role here. Very professional, grand pieces tone down the modern style and add an ‘old-school’ flair, which can neutralize the ultramodern aesthetic.”
By incorporating these four trends, you can bid farewell to a purely clean and functional aesthetic and welcome a cozy kitchen that you and your loved ones will want to spend time in. (BPT)
Snellville Spotlight: FY26 Budget Approval and More
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The mayor and council of Snellville recently announced the unanimous approval of the city’s Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) balanced budget. While keeping property taxes stable, the $40,740,970 budget maintains current services, prioritizes staff retention, and fosters community development. The budget’s approval comes after months of planning and discussion and two public hearings.
“We are proud to approve a budget that maintains and improves services for citizens and spurs the future growth of Snellville without raising the millage rate,” Mayor Barbara Bender said. “This is the fourth consecutive year the millage rate has remained at four mills. However, in order to hold the line on the overall millage rate, the decision was made to reinstate a residential sanitation fee of $240 that will be reflected on tax bills in September.”
The FY26 budget reflects current global economic conditions, which have
Continued on page 15
Seen in Gwinnett
Emil’s Photos of the Month
Perspective…A Word for Your Day
By Jane Bishop
We each have a lens that shapes our understanding, decisions, and relationships, and it is called perspective. This lens is more than the way we view the world, and it is valuable because it gives us options. Two people can be present in the same location, experience the same circumstances, yet leave with different perceptions. This variation results from each person’s unique perspective rather than the events themselves.
When we’re locked in a single way of seeing things, challenges feel heavier, and conflicts feel sharper. Expanding our perspective allows us to see opportunities we might have missed, extend grace to others, and navigate life with less stress. It’s not about ignoring reality; it’s about interpreting it in a way that brings growth instead of limitation.
Perspective is closely connected with context. Context is the backdrop that gives meaning to a moment. A simple phrase, a gesture, or even silence can mean entirely different things depending on the setting. Perspective is what we carry into that context. When we pair together our understanding of circumstances with our interpretation of them, we develop a clearer, more compassionate view of life.
So how do we shift perspective when we feel stuck? Here are three practical steps to get started:
1. Pause and Reframe
When frustrations rise, stop and ask, “What else could this mean?” Reframing helps us recognize that our first interpretation isn’t the only one. Instead of, “This challenge is unfair,” we might see, “This challenge is preparing me.”
2. Seek Another Viewpoint
Invite input from someone you trust and may think differently than you.
Continued on page 14
Lilburn Farmers Market
8
the farmers market’s founder and manager, Mandy McManus, “so we decided to do a holiday pop-up that’s just a one-time event on the Saturday before Thanksgiving each year. It’s a great way to reconnect with vendors and customers, and it’s our biggest and most well-attended market of the year, coming at the start of the busy holiday shopping season.”
The pop-up market offers holiday shoppers a selection of goods from local crafters, candles, soaps, jams, and jellies, as well as the traditional baked goods and seasonal produce. Tractor rides, live music, and pictures with Santa also set the stage for a family-friendly start to the holiday season.
“I just think it’s a different experience in the fall, because we’re all drinking hot chocolate, wearing our sweatshirts and jeans, and getting into the holiday spirit,” said McManus. “Hopefully, we’ll have a beautiful, clear fall day like we did last year for a chance to enjoy being outside on Good Shepherd Presbyterian’s wonderful property.”
The church has been the site of the summer farmers market for thirteen
years and offers ample parking and space to enjoy the many vendors.
“We’re very happy with Good Shepherd. They are wonderful hosts, and we are so lucky that they allow us to use their facilities,” said McManus. “We’ve grown so much since we started, and we want the Lilburn Farmers Market to be an event that the whole community can enjoy.”
As part of their commitment to the community, the market also participates in Wholesome Wave Georgia, a program that matches EBT dollars spent to provide an equivalent amount for the purchase of locally grown produce. For every EBT dollar spent, cardholders will receive a token, which can be redeemed for any fresh produce at the market.
Whether picking up some fresh fall vegetables, grabbing a gift for the holidays, or getting into the community spirit, Lilburn locals are invited to join the fall festivities at the holiday pop-up and return for the summer market in May 2026.
The Lilburn Farmers Market at Good Shepherd Presbyterian is located at 1400 Killian Hill Rd. in Lilburn.
More information at lilburnfarmersmarket.org.
Family Remains the Key Ingredient at Mellow Mushroom Snellville
By Jenna Cooper
A lot has changed for Mellow Mushroom in Snellville since its opening over twenty-five years ago, but one thing has remained constant: it’s all in the family. For owners Barbara “Barbie” Rosselle and Greg Merkle, that not only includes their own family histories of restaurateurs, but also the staff, customers, and atmosphere of their business.
“We have a lot of regular customers, and we want everyone who comes in to feel like this place is their home away from home,” said Merkle. “Many of our guests call us Snellville’s Cheers.”
Rosselle and Merkle know many of their customers’ names, pizza orders, and family members, and have witnessed the children of those families grow up to become customers themselves. The loyalty of their customers has also been a driving force behind the partners’ commitment to giving back to the Snellville community.
Their collaboration began ten years ago when Rosselle offered Merkle the partnership after he had worked his way up at the restaurant since starting as a busboy at age 17.
“I worked hard for a long time, and as I get closer to retirement, it has been such a blessing to pull back and let Greg take the reins,” said Rosselle. “We work well together—he’s big picture and I’m in the details, and when we put our two minds together, it seems to work out nicely.”
Over the years, Rosselle and Merkle have spearheaded fundraising for local public servants and team members in need, as well as support for the legislation that passed, allowing them to expand their offering to customers through the Sunday sale of alcohol.
Evolving and expanding offerings to meet customers’ needs is a consistent priority at the restaurant. The decline in business during the pandemic in 2020 led to an increase in their third-party delivery options, and plans now include new late-night hours of operation on the weekends to address the lack of restaurant options available to Snellville residents after 9:00 p.m.
Beginning September 2nd, customers can also try the latest addition to the Mellow Mushroom menu: pizza rolls with a choice of six different dipping sauces.
Those who prefer the menu staples may want to try Merkle’s favorite pizza— the Holy Shitake with bacon—or one of the throwbacks to old favorites that are always available on a special side menu. That includes Rosselle’s favorite menu item of her own creation: the Magical Mystery Tour pizza with a vegetarian pesto base, two types of mushrooms, spinach, feta cheese, and light jalapeños.
“We always have new specials and items on the menu to keep things lively,” said Merkle, “but the old reliables are still there, and if we have the ingredients, we will make it. We always try to say yes if we can.”
Whether trying out the menu or joining them for trivia nights every Wednesday at 7:00 p.m., the team at Mellow Mushroom Snellville invites everyone to come and be part of the family.
More information at mellowmushroom.com/locations or follow on Facebook at facebook.com/mmsnellville.
Ryan’s Remarks
Continued from page 7
pressured. Because when we focus on what truly matters, we don’t just accomplish more — we grow more. And that, my friends, is something worth not missing out on.
I wish you a wonderful October and a fantastic holiday season. And now, as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!
Walton Court Booster Station Serving Snellville and the Surrounding area
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The City of Snellville is proud to announce that a Community Project Funding request submitted by U.S. Congressman David Scott has successfully secured $1,092,000 in federal appropriations to support critical infrastructure improvements just outside the city limits.
“I am proud to announce that the House Appropriations Committee has provided over $1 million in federal funding to upgrade the drinking water infrastructure for Gwinnett County, particularly Snellville,” Scott said. “This investment to enhance the Walton Court Booster Station will ensure access to clean drinking water for residents in the surrounding area. I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to ensure that this funding is signed into law.”
The funding, which was requested on behalf of Gwinnett County, will be used to modernize the aging booster station located along Walton Court. The project was initially submitted with a total request of $1,760,000.
“This federal investment will directly benefit residents in Snellville by ensuring more reliable and secure water infrastructure,” said Mayor Barbara Bender. “We are grateful to Congressman Scott for advocating on behalf of our community and to Gwinnett County for prioritizing these critical upgrades.”
The Walton Court Booster Station currently supports approximately 1,750 people through numerous water connections. Built more than 40 years ago, the station faces several operational and safety challenges, including:
• Corroded and leaking piping and pump surfaces
• Outdated and undersized electrical systems
• A deteriorated building secured only by a single manway door with a keyed lock
• No perimeter fencing or enhanced site security
Planned improvements will address these issues through a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade.
• Replacement of booster pumps
• Upgrades to electrical and power systems
• Building renovations
• Installation of standby power for emergency operation
• Enhanced on-site security measures
The funding is part of the Fiscal Year 2026 Federal Appropriations Bill, which still has to be passed by Congress. Federal lawmakers aim to pass the bill by September 30th, though final passage may occur later in the fiscal year.
Listening to another perspective doesn’t mean you abandon your own—it broadens the horizon.
3. Zoom Out
Big-picture thinking reduces the weight of small frustrations. Ask yourself, “Will this matter in five weeks? Five years?” That shift in scale can ease tension and restore focus on what truly matters.
Perspective isn’t fixed; it’s flexible. Each time we choose to see differently, we give ourselves space for clarity, resilience, and deeper connection with others. This approach helps us move beyond quick judgments and see the bigger picture, leading to greater insight and a calmer approach to daily challenges. When we actively cultivate a flexible mindset, we unlock the potential to not only understand ourselves but also to uplift those around us. The power to transform any moment lies in our willingness to reconsider, to learn, and to grow. How will you lead with clarity and compassion, and set the foundation for a life rich in meaning and connection?
More information at https://www.janebishoplive.com/
space. Measure the shelves, cut the liner to length, and then lay it flat. The shelf liner is durable, waterproof, and designed to keep surfaces dry, while making them easy to wipe clean. Use the measurements to determine what size bins will best fit the area. Store crackers, cereal, oats, and pasta in clear labeled containers, and put spices and seasonings in a slim organizer. “Set up items similarly to grocery store shelves by placing like items together,” Litman suggests. “When you do this, it’s like you are shopping in your pantry instead of hunting for things.”
Out with the Old: Before pulling out your fall wardrobe, declutter the piles of “stuff” from the closet. This will make your space seem more extensive and more organized. “Remove clothes from this past season,” Litman recommends. “Look through each garment. If you didn’t wear it, donate, toss, or sell it.” Now that there is more room, hang an over-the-door shoe rack for rain boots and work shoes and use a closet organizer to store accessories, such as belts, purses, and scarves. Litman also recommends dry cleaning winter jackets now, so they’re ready to wear when cold weather comes.
Find Balance in the Bathroom: Whether it’s the primary bath or the kids’ washroom, make the most of your space by organizing everything into different categories, like towels and haircare. Once everything is grouped, you can decide what will be kept based on the available areas. Use a tray on the counter and bins in pullout drawers.
Litman says to wipe and line surfaces, especially under the sink, before putting essentials away. Antimicrobial agents inhibit mold and mildew growth to protect the liner and will catch makeup smudges and water spills to give the area an extra clean feeling. She also recommends waiting until after the organizing process to buy bins and caddies so you know exactly what you need. Once these organizing projects are complete, your home will be ready for all the fun fall festivities and family gatherings. (StatePoint)
affected the cost of living, health coverage, construction supplies, and utilities. City leaders have balanced these rising expenses with a focus on maintaining quality service and advancing community goals.
Community Development: The city, with input from citizens, revised the T.W. Briscoe Park Master Plan. The updated plan included building a new community center with features such as an indoor walking track, basketball, pickleball, and volleyball courts, meeting rooms, and an aerobics studio. In May, the city broke ground on the $11.3 million community center, funded by the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax and over $1 million in Community Development Block Grant funds.
The Grove at Towne Center keeps growing with the upcoming openings of Crooked Can Brewery and food hall, Dumpling Master, The Grove Taqueria, and Parkside District. In the entertainment district, the city will continue its concert series and events.
Capital Improvements: Funding is provided for a major intersection improvement at North Road and Wisteria Drive, addressing congestion and improving safety near The Grove at Towne Center. The project will also include new sidewalks, lighting, and landscaping as well as upgraded traffic signals to improve safety for pedestrians in the area.
To continue to provide quality services, the budget has funds for new equipment, including a truck for the stormwater department, six police vehicles, and a mower for right-of-way maintenance. Other capital investments include a total of $1 million for the city’s annual paving project and $1.4 million in stormwater infrastructure improvements.
Revenue Adjustments and Restructuring: The city has funded residential garbage collection out of general fund property taxes for the last twenty years. Since this policy was implemented, the cost of sanitation services has increased substantially, and city staff have recommended charging separately for services.
“We’ve known for the past five years that this train was coming to an end,” Mayor Barbara Bender said. “We will have to rebid the contract next year, and seeing the current rates other cities are facing, we know our costs will have yet another substantial increase. We simply cannot continue to fund the shortfall without either a serious increase to the millage rate or adding a flat user fee. This is not something any of us wanted to do.”
Staff Retention and Recruitment: A 3 percent increase in salary is designed to retain and attract new employees to the city. Parks and Recreation will hire two new full-time and thirteen part-time employees to staff the new Community Center at T.W. Briscoe Park.
“Presenting a budget without a millage increase while keeping services and quality of life at the level expected by city residents is a priority,” said City Manager Matthew Pepper. “It is a testament to the dedication of mayor and council and city staff to be able to present a balanced budget that keeps the city on a path toward excellence.”
Get Ready for Soups and Ciders
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colors of fall. Take a hike or a drive and enjoy the scenery. And for those sports fans, there’s always plenty of football! Happy fall y’all!
*Nanny’s Apple Cake
Ingredients:
2 eggs
1 1/4 cup vegetable oil
3 cups all-purpose flour
3 cups chopped apples
1 cups sugar
1 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla flavoring
1/4 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp baking soda
1 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Beat eggs, add sugar, vanilla flavoring, and oil. Beat three minutes
Mix all dry ingredients together
Mix ingredients together -- the dry and the egg, sugar, and oil mixture
Add the chopped apples, then add chopped pecans - mix all ingredients thoroughly
Pour into a greased Bundt pan or cake pan
Bake at 350 degrees for one hour and 15 minutes or until cooked through Top with a dusting of powdered sugar
Serve topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream
One Man’s Opinion: Does Anyone Remember Work Ethic?
By Bill Crane
Improving health has allowed me to resume a more regular, yet slightly strenuous, calendar, as well as frequent outof-state travel. Returning to HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport recently, I noticed the near-continuous construction there routinely relocates services and amenities, without always having corresponding new or temporary signage. In the most recent case, I was attempting to locate the pickup location for off-airport parking shuttles, which have been located underneath the North Terminal for the past two years, and then beyond the MARTA station and Sky Train.
I approached two uniformed Hartsfield Aviation department employees who were engaged in conversation about other matters. I paused and waited for a break in their chat, apologized for the intrusion, and asked where the current pickup location for the off-airport parking shuttles is.
Each employee practically scowled, one shared that she was NOT a shuttle driver and that was not part of her responsibilities. The other nodded, but noting I wasn’t moving away, pointed generically in the direction of the MARTA station and said, “Out there.”
“Thanks. That’s very helpful...” And I was on my way. The shuttles were still on the far side of the MARTA rail and Sky Train, through a series of convoluted sidewalk barriers, again with no signage, and easily tripled the length of the walk from baggage claim. On the plus side, I was able to increase my step count that day using my Fitbit.
There had been a mix-up with reservations at the parking facility (which generally runs a good shop), but my parking entry was not time-stamped, and though I had pre-paid, there was no exit scanner for me to show my QR code on an early Sunday evening to EXIT the lot. I got out of the car and walked to another gate attendant on the parking facility property, explaining my situation. She seemed to understand but said, “Without a receipt, I can’t know that you pre-paid.”
Yes, and though I had a pre-paid reservation and arrived on time, that lot was full, and I was directed across the street to what is evidently overflow and employee parking. “I paid in advance, the botched reservation was not my error, I need to get going. I have been parking here for years. You can check my Account #. Can you let me out?”
This time, though not rude, I was apparently raising a challenge outside of her depth. The cashier said she had no way to raise the gate on that side without an electronic badge in the window of all their vans and shuttles. I watched the next two shuttles depart the lot. The gate was a bit slow, and since the vans/ shuttles were not all uniform in size, when the gate lifted, it remained up for about 5 seconds after the prior shuttle or van had pulled out.
I got right on the tail of the next exiting shuttle. The shuttle exited, and I sped out right behind, with the gate dropping just as my car cleared the driveway. I could hear the attendant, unable to assist me, yelling, “HEY...”
A few days later, I was in a building witnessing a cleaning crew at the end of a long business day. I had been at it since about 7:30 a.m., it was closing on 7 p.m. I can’t state that I know the particulars of the day of the cleaning worker, but he was a younger man, in his mid-20s, clearly getting winded and sweaty while vacuuming. His colleague suggested he pause for a moment. A roughly 30-minute break ensued. I know this as I had been watching the newscast clock when hearing the chat, and then again when the vacuum turned back on. A half-lunch vacuum break?
All this concerns me in a world where we seem to be drawing further apart, and in jobs that we can’t seem to fill, whether in trades and skilled positions or unskilled but necessary labor that no one seems to want to do anymore. Repeatedly, these jobs ARE FILLED by immigrants, who still understand that our America is the land of opportunity. IF you DO remember work ethic, or indeed if you have plenty of your own, pick out a few young folks in your circle. Share, mentor, and help them understand the benefits of sweat equity, over-service, and responding favorably to opportunities as they arise. It may not be as exciting as a game of FortNite, but if you are at all persuasive, for the good of all of us, please give it a shot.
Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
