Photos of the Month
On the Cover: Getting to Know Special Kneads and Treats, Inc.
By Kristen Eleveld
Everyone loves a sweet treat. But for those in the Gwinnett area, getting a delicious dessert from one particular bakery isn’t just about the food—it’s about being part of a cause that gives disabled adults a future and underserved kids the celebration they deserve.
Several years ago, Tempa Kohler watched a news piece about a woman who found herself needing the services of a food pantry that she used to support. It also happened to be her son’s birthday, and when asked what he wanted for his special day, he stated that all he wanted was a real birthday cake. Tempa, realizing that this was something she could do and realizing that there were children out there whose families had never been able to afford or receive a real birthday cake for their special day, determined that somehow, some way she would try to ensure that these children could receive a free birthday cake—and that is how the non-profit was born.
Tempa, along with her husband Michael, created Special Kneads and Treats, Inc., a 501(c)(3) non-profit that is dedicated to making sure every child has a cake on his or her birthday. The Kohlers partner with local co-operative ministries, foster cares, and the Department of Family and Child Services to find kids who will be celebrating a birthday and want to be celebrated with a special cake.
The first mission, called Cakes for Kiddos, was only the beginning of a story that would grow to affect every community in Gwinnett.
The Kohlers have two children, one of whom was born with Fragile X Syndrome. Their son, Bradley, participated in educational programs until he was twenty-two years old, at which point he had exhausted all of the options provided by the public school system in Gwinnett County. In 2012, Bradley officially aged out of Gwinnett County Public Schools, and his parents were left asking, “What should Bradley do now?”
And the Kohlers weren’t the only parents who were wondering. They met with a lot of families who shared the same concern about their own kids. What would happen to their adult children with disabilities or special needs who had nowhere to go next?
That’s when Michael and Tempa decided to expand their vision even further. They opened Special Kneads and Treats, Inc., a bakery with a unique twist: the majority of its employees had some type of diagnosis.
“We wanted to help everyone we could, especially those who had a limited ability and lower chance to be hired in a more traditional job,” said Michael. It wasn’t long before Special Kneads and Treats became a local sensation, with over 150 adults with special needs joining the waitlist to apply and be hired.
Today, Special Kneads and Treats has forty-seven people on its payroll and two volunteers. Of that number, thirty-eight employees have some type
of diagnosis. The type of need doesn’t matter. There is a job for everyone, regardless of the severity of their needs.
“We look at the ability, not the disability,” said Michael. “We want to focus on what people can do, not what they can’t do. Everyone was made a specific way with a specific purpose—and if we really believe that, we need to look at how God made them and what He made their purpose to be.”
With this philosophy in mind, the Kohlers have created a program that doesn’t just offer a paycheck. It offers continuous education and training, which goes on throughout the course of any team member’s employment.
“We didn’t want to give our employees a limited training program that would end,” said Michael. “We wanted to set them up with education and training that they could take with them forever.”
Special Kneads and Treats has grown exponentially, moving in 2017 to a bigger building with lots of space for the employees and customers alike. This building was an answer to prayer, and the Kohlers are confident that God will continue to provide what they need to keep their mission going.
“God’s not done with us yet,” said Michael. “But even if we didn’t grow anymore, we know we’ve made an impact over these last twelve years.”
The Kohlers are grateful for the incredible support they have received from the community. And that support can be given in a variety of ways. You might enjoy purchasing their cake mix, icing mix, or sprinkle mix. Their goal is for every employee to have his or her own signature mix, so be on the lookout for new and exciting options.
Continued on page 10
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IN THIS ISSUE
Contributing
On the Cover: Getting to Know Special Kneads and Treats, Inc.
Gwinnett’s Premier Road Race Returns to Snellville in 2026
Gwinnett County Growth: Major Gas South Arena Renovation
Pet Perch: Chocolate, Doorbells, and Costumes
Matters: Your Brand Makes All the Difference
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
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.
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 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!
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.
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 Continued on page 9
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 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.
Get Ready for Soups and Ciders
cooler weather. Fun fall activities include:
Continued from page 7
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 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
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)
Learning Lessons: Helping Young Children Understand Differences
By Tanisha Turner
Does it ever seem like “why?” is your child’s favorite word? It’s completely natural for children to ask a lot of questions, and young children are particularly curious about differences – why another child’s skin is lighter or darker than their own, or why some people speak another language. As children notice these differences, talking openly about them and encouraging acceptance will help them develop an appreciation and respect for others. Young children learn about differences through a two-step process. First, they must learn to recognize the traits and customs that make them unique. Then, with a little guidance, children will be able to recognize and embrace what makes others special. Following are five at-home activities to help children understand and appreciate differences.
• Share Your Family History. Show pictures of family members and talk about each person. Children love and remember stories, so share a favorite story or something you remember about each person. This builds your child’s awareness of family history and culture.
• Create a Self-Portrait. An art project is a fun way to help children understand their unique traits. As you point out different physical features, like hair length and eye color, ask your child to draw him or herself accordingly. Afterward, ask your child to draw his or her best friend or a family member, asking similar questions about the person’s appearance. Have your child name a few similarities and differences between the two drawings.
• Listen to Music. Play music from your family’s country of origin or your region of the United States, and share favorite songs you sang as a child. Then play music from other cultures or parts of the country and ask your child to identify the similarities and differences.
• Read a Book. Reading to children is one of the best ways to introduce them to people of different origins worldwide. Characters and storylines
Continued on page 15
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
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. 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/
Special Kneads and Treats
Continued from page 5
You can also find the store on eBay. They sell donated items and items they produce to fund their operations, so be sure to check out what they have to offer. With a unique combination of a non-profit and retail-like environment run by adults with special needs, the bakery works hard to both pay their employees fairly and to teach them a variety of important skills.
For the Kohlers, it’s all about the employees themselves. Michael recalls one employee who received his very first paycheck as an employee of the bakery while in his fifties. And he celebrated by treating his dad to dinner at McDonald’s.
“We have tremendous success stories of people who have been employed here before moving on,” said Michael. “Everyone learns a lot through this process.”
At the end of the day, the Kohlers and their team are answering a call.
“When Jesus asked some of His disciples to follow Him, they went to their brother and said ‘Come and see,’” said Michael. “That’s what we want to do, too. This all belongs to God, and we want our community to ‘come and see’ what He has done.”
More information at https://www.specialkneadsandtreats.org/ or (678) 237-7147
Gwinnett’s Premier Road Race Returns to Snellville in 2026
By Jenna Cooper
The annual Run the Reagan road race is a longstanding tradition for the community in Snellville, and it will return for its 31st year on February 21, 2026. The event features a half-marathon, timed and untimed 10K and 5K races, and a 1K fun-run down Ronald Reagan Parkway, but the impact extends far beyond the finish line.
All proceeds (after expenses) from the event sponsorships and participant fees are donated to organizations that give back to the community, averaging around $65,000 in contributions each year. Beneficiaries for 2026 will be the Lilburn Co-op, the Brookwood Schools Foundation, and the South Gwinnett Cluster Foundation.
“Run the Reagan is such a great community event. We love to see all the people who come out to spend time with their families, get some exercise, have fun, and give back to Snellville,” said the organization’s president, Kelly McAloon.
In the early 1990s, Vietnam War veteran and active community member Parks Mann founded Run the Reagan as a charitable organization, hosting the first race shortly after Ronald Reagan Parkway opened. At the time, proceeds from the event benefited the Gwinnett County Clinic until its closure, and have since been designated each year to other local charities that help the community and support the event through volunteering and promotion.
Fueled by Mann’s dedication to serving the community and his commitment to charitable causes, Run the Reagan has been a successful event every year since its founding, even during the challenging years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Run the Reagan received a proclamation from the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners in recognition of its contributions to the community.
Continued on page 14
Seen in Gwinnett
Emil’s Photos of the Month
Gwinnett County Growth: Major Gas South Arena Renovation
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners recently approved a resolution committing to partner with the Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau (GCVB) to finance the renovation and expansion of the Gas South Arena with enhanced security, updated technology, more concession options and more parking. This action affirms the Board’s commitment to drive economic benefits for the county by maintaining the arena as a state-of-the-art venue and strengthening the arena’s competitive position in the market.
The proposed improvements are estimated to range in cost from $170 to $176 million, as presented by GCVB President and CEO Stan Hall during an update to commissioners on April 1, 2025. Funding for the project will come from a combination of sources including reserve cash and bond financing.
Continued on page 15
Feeling Our OATS
By Tana Poncsak
Technology can be intimidating at any age, but especially for those who are older and unfamiliar with the new technology.
Fortunately, there’s help for older adults in the way of OATS, which stands for Older Adults Technology Services. According to the AARP website for OATS, www.oats.org, it’s an initiative launched in 2004 and became part of the Senior Planet curriculum with its mission to “harness the power of technology to change the way we age by empowering older adults with the tools and training to take advantage of today’s technology.”
Tom Rau is a Lawrenceville resident who spent forty-five years working in Information Technology.
“I like to say I did tech before it was cool,” Tom says. “It’s just all second nature to me at this point in the game.”
He retired from The Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta in 2022, and now he’s bringing the OATS program to Gwinnett and Barrow counties in Georgia.
Tom saw his friends and other people around his age struggle with the same technology that came easy to him, and he decided he wanted to help.
“Many of my friends didn’t grow up in the tech business like I did,” he says. “There were a lot of men my age that really didn’t have a clue of what was going on.”
Tom says it was like “a deer in headlights.” And it wasn’t just the men of a certain age but women as well.
“I got this burning inside of me to help these people,” he says.
In summer of 2024, while reading an AARP magazine, he stumbled across information about OATS. After a phone call and an email or two, he ended up in the training for the program, and now Tom is a certified OATS trainer.
Needing a place to hold classes, and since his wife, Kitti, already volunteered at the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry, he says he reached out to Laura Drake, director of the co-op, and together they brought OATS to Gwinnett, offering the first classes in August 2024. Since then, the local nonprofit program was awarded a $10,000 grant from AT&T that helped them purchase a number of resources for the classes.
Tom says they offer a number of classes on a variety of technology topics, and the classes include books and other quality resources.
“There’s exercises, and there’s homework,” he says. But what Tom says he likes most about teaching the classes is being able to help. “I’m talking through something and then I see the lightbulb go on behind their eyeballs. I can see a smile suddenly appear where there was fear before. That’s what turns my crank.”
Tom says he also likes to see his students talk amongst themselves and help one another. “They start saying, ‘Look, it’s right here,”’ he says.
And he points out that it’s the excitement of the students as they learn and understand the technology that was once so unfamiliar and foreign to them before. And while many OATS students are seniors, Tom says there are a num-
Continued on page 14
Pet Perch: Chocolate, Doorbells, and Costumes
By Dr. Jennifer Reesman
There is a hint of coolness in the morning air, the leaves are starting to fall, and planning for that frightful night has begun! If your kids are like mine, two of the three are already working on their costumes, making plans with friends, scoping which neighborhood is the best, and already excited for Halloween night. And though I enjoy seeing the excitement in my kids, and I love all the littles in their superhero and princess costumes, I dread it a little for the pets.
The constant doorbell ringing (which my oldest pup is triggered by), the costumes that delight and frighten at the same time, the chocolate and candy that sometimes fall to the floor or the bucket that didn’t get put quite out of reach, and the door opening and closing, pose a threat for a four-legged friend to find their way outside. So, what can we do?
If your pet is triggered by noise, moving them to a quiet room of the house, putting a sign asking for the doorbell not to be rung, and sitting outside to pass out candy can all help. Using a crate or room to confine your cat or dog can also help keep your friend safe and away from the sight of costumes that may cause fear, the door that may open just enough to allow them to escape, and the candy bowl. Does your furry friend love it? Make sure the bowl is out of reach, and possibly utilize a leash for control when you open the door. That excited pup can sometimes be a lot for a small child.
So, when Halloween night comes, a little preparation and foresight can go a long way in keeping your furry friend safe! Have a great October.
Dr. Jenny Reesman is the owner of Brookwood Animal Hospital. More information at https://www.brookwoodanimal.com/
Run the Reagan 2026
Continued from page 12
Now, what started as a small charitable organization has evolved into a premier event in Gwinnett, offering family-friendly entertainment and attracting between 1,500 and 1,800 runners throughout the county and beyond. On race day, attendees can expect inflatables for kids, a live DJ, school bands and cheerleaders, and a variety of vendors providing goods and services.
“It’s a great opportunity for businesses to get their name out there as a vendor or give back to the local community by sponsoring the event,” said McAloon. “We are very excited to have Piedmont Eastside returning as a great partner and title sponsor for our 2026 race.”
The event offers sponsors of all sizes the opportunity to promote their businesses through meaningful contributions and invites vendors to connect with the community through food, crafts, sports apparel, games, and more.
To bring the race to life, however, it’s the combined passion of the volunteers, board members, sponsors, and dedicated leaders that makes it possible. The event requires the time and energy of over 200 volunteers, the approval of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners for the use of the road, as well
as the planning and recruitment efforts of Run the Reagan board members.
“I’m all in,” said McAloon. “I believe Run the Reagan is such a worthy cause because it benefits so many different people in our community, and as president, I am 200% committed to seeing it continue to grow and thrive as a Snellville tradition.”
More information at runthereagan.net.
Feeling Our OATS
Continued from page 13
ber of international students who speak English as a second language as well. Tom is looking to extend the outreach into other areas of metro Atlanta. OATS classes are free, and in Gwinnett, they’re held from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry located at 55 Grayson Industrial Parkway in Grayson. In Barrow County classes are held at the Winder Barrow Brad Atkins YMCA located at 50 Brad Atkins Drive.
More information at https://oatsgwinnett.blogspot.com/2025/03/oats-gwinnett-march-2025-happenings.html.
Major Gas South Arena Renovation
“Gwinnett County’s support for the Gas South Arena renovation underscores our continued dedication to maintaining the Gwinnett Standard of excellence for county investments,” said Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson. “For more than two decades, this venue has brought world-class entertainment to our community while generating significant economic benefits for our residents. By modernizing and expanding these facilities, we’re ensuring that the Gas South District will continue to be a source of pride and a draw to Gwinnett County for generations to come.”
The Gas South District—home to a 13,000-seat arena, a 708-seat theater, a convention center with 90,000 square feet of exhibit space and a 21,600 square foot ballroom, plus the recently opened Westin Atlanta Gwinnett hotel— remains one of Georgia’s most versatile event destinations.
“The Gas South District illustrates Gwinnett’s hospitality at the highest level,” added District 1 Commissioner Kirkland Carden, whose district includes the arena. “With conventions, performances, and events that enrich our communities culturally, these facility upgrades will ensure we’re able to continue providing a high-quality experience at the center. Modern amenities, quicker concessions and a new parking deck will keep Gwinnett at the center of metro Atlanta’s entertainment scene while creating new opportunities for local businesses.”
Plans for the renovation include significant upgrades designed to enhance the guest experience, such as:
• Enhanced Security and Welcome Experience: Installation of state-ofthe-art security equipment integrated into a redesigned, welcoming front entrance that reflects the campus’ aesthetic beauty.
• Transformed Front Lobby: Removal of existing curved wooden walls to create an open space featuring digital components and permanent merchandise stands.
• Elevated Food and Beverage Options: Addition of lobby bars, built-in bars throughout the venue and modernized concession stands with graband-go technology.
• Premium Seating Additions: New loge seating and expanded premium products to provide additional partnership assets.
• Technology Upgrades: Installation of upgraded video screens and digital technology throughout the venue.
• Expanded Parking: Construction of a multi-level parking deck to replace surface parking and accommodate increased attendance.
Economic Impact
During his presentation to the Board, Stan Hall highlighted the need to maintain the Gas South Arena as a state-of-the-art venue to support the continued economic success of the entire Gas South District.
“Gas South Arena has been a cornerstone for live entertainment and a premier destination for the community, generating over $1 billion in economic impact,” Hall said. “The County’s investment allows Gas South Arena to stay competitive, offer diverse and first-class entertainment options, and continue attracting top-tier events to this area. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing support from the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners for this project. We look forward to sharing this renewed facility with the community soon.”
The Gas South District provides tremendous economic benefit to Gwinnett County through revenue generated by retail sales taxes, liquor licenses and fees, hotel/motel taxes, business licenses, and supporting and creating employment opportunities.
Learning
Lessons Continued from page 9
are great starting points for discussions on diversity, so look for books that have characters that your child can identify with, even though they may have different appearances or customs. Some suggestions include It’s Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr (ages 4-7) and The Crayon Box That Talked by Shane Derolf (ages 4-7).
• Think Outside the Box. Look for opportunities for your child to interact with children from different countries and cultures. Visit museums, festivals, ethnic restaurants, and other places that will help your child learn about various customs and cultures firsthand.
One of the best ways to help young children understand and embrace all forms of diversity is to speak openly and honestly about the differences between people. When your child points out someone who is different or as you’re doing the above activities together, don’t shy away from the topic and remind him or her that appearances have nothing to do with what’s on the inside. With a little guidance, your preschooler will grow into a kind, accepting person who understands that diversity makes the world a better place.
Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com or 770-513-0066
Marketing Matters: Your Brand Makes All the Difference
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
Are You Looking Up? Because Leaders Do.
How can we lead when we’re constantly looking down—at our phones, distractions, and the noise around us? We can’t. Leaders look up. They look ahead. They set the tone. And the best leaders, whether individuals or organizations, have one thing in common: a strong brand. So, let’s talk about what that means in 2025.
Your Brand: More Than a Logo, It’s an Experience
Everything you do communicates a message—especially when it comes to branding. A great brand doesn’t just tell people what you do; it shows them who you are. That’s why we instinctively associate Nike with “Just Do It” and immediately picture Walt Disney World when we hear “the happiest place on Earth.” These brands aren’t just slogans; they’re experiences that evoke emotion. And in today’s world, experience is everything.
Think about it—are you a Coke or Pepsi person? A Mac or PC user? These preferences aren’t just about product features; they’re about identity. Your brand is what sets you apart in a crowded market. People can try to copy what you do, but they can’t copy you. Your brand is your DNA, and that is your competitive edge.
Price vs. Value: Where Does Your Brand Stand?
Here’s a simple truth: price is just a number, but value is a perception. Value = price + goods/services + YOU. Without the personal touch that your brand brings, you become just another commodity. And commodities compete on price alone—a race to the bottom. No thanks. The goal isn’t to be the cheapest option; it’s to be the best option.
What Exactly Is a Brand?
Your brand is the sum total of key ideas, emotions, and perceptions associated with you or your organization. It’s the shorthand for how people think and feel about you. In other words, your brand is like a fingerprint—completely unique.
To simplify this, I use the acronym BRAND:
• Baseline: The foundation of how people measure you.
• Reputation: What you stand for and how you are perceived.
• Attributes: The defining characteristics people associate with you.
• Name: The emotional response your name evokes (good, bad, or indifferent).
• Distinctiveness: What makes you different and impossible to replicate.
Here’s the kicker—your brand isn’t what you say it is. It’s what others say it is. The most successful individuals and organizations understand this and shape their brands intentionally through strategic communication and consistency.
The PACT Mindset: Building a Brand That Lasts
Want a brand that stands the test of time? Develop a PACT mindset:
• Passion – Bring energy, dedication, and enthusiasm to everything you do.
• Authenticity – Be real, consistent, and grounded in integrity.
• Creativity – Think differently, embrace innovation, and challenge the status quo.
• Trust – Build strong relationships by being reliable and ethical.
A brand built on these principles isn’t just recognizable, it’s memorable And in 2025, where attention spans are shorter than ever, being memorable is everything.
Taking Action: Strengthen Your Brand Today
Your brand isn’t static. It evolves. The question isn’t whether you have a brand—it’s whether you’re actively shaping it or letting others define it for you.
Here’s your action plan:
1. Get Feedback – Ask people around you (both close contacts and outsiders) how they perceive your brand. You might be surprised at what you learn.
2. Refine Your Message – Make sure your brand communicates the experience you want people to associate with you.
3. Be Consistent – Great brands don’t happen overnight. They’re built through deliberate, intentional efforts over time.
So, does your brand matter? Absolutely. It’s the single biggest factor in setting you apart in 2025 and beyond.
Ryan T. Sauers is CEO of End Resultz Media and Sauers Consulting Strategies. More information at www.SauersConsulting.com or www. EndResultz.com.
