FEBRUARY 2019: Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

FEBRUARY 2019 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville

Up Close with Expedia CruiseShipCenters, see story on page 5.

8 13 18 21

One on One with Loganville High Baseball: A Championship Program Nothing but the Truth Ministry: Making a Difference in Lives Community Spotlight Feature: A True Amazing Find in Loganville Perimeter Roofing: Paying off Elementary School Lunch Balances

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No two No of two us are A memorial service should of alike. us are A alike. memorial service should No two ofalike. us are A memorial service should reflect that.

Whether your family is in need of immediate reflect that.

Whether your family is in need of immediate No two of us are alike.

A memorial service should reflect that. Whether your family is in need of immediate service or service interested in planning ahead, you can rely on or service interested in planning ahead, you can rely on reflect that.

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Our Town

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3 GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP A NEW YEAR…A NEW MEMBERSHIP O A NEW YEAR…A INTRODUCTORY NEW MEMBERSHIP OFFER GOLF MEMBERSHIP SPEC 3

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NO INITIATION FEE www.s 3197 Classic Drive www.summitchasecc.com 3197 Classic Drive NO INITIATION FEE

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YOUR FAMILY BELONGS YOUR FAMILY BELONGS HERE! onal information, Carol Zamzow 770-979-9000 (ext. 101 770-979-9000 ) Forcontact additional information, contact Carol Zamzow (ext. 101 ) or email: info@summitchasecc.com or email: info@summitchasecc.com 3197 Classic Drive 197 Classic Drive Snellville, Ga 30078 Snellville, GA 30078

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TENNIS • SWIM • DINING • •SOCIAL GOLF • TENNIS • SWIM DINING • SOCIAL 2019 INTRODUCTORY MEMBERSHIP SPECIAL All Full Facility Golf Memberships pay $150 per month and Tennis Swim Social Memberships pay $75 per month for first twelve months.

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Our Town

•

On the Cover: Cruise into Summer with Expedia CruiseShipCenters

By Kristen Eleveld With the winter chill still heavy in the air, many people are already dreaming of a hot, beautiful summer, complete with sandy beaches and perfect skies. It may seem too good to be true, but Expedia CruiseShipCenters is ready to make all of your vacation dreams a reality – and they are doing it right from the heart of Lawrenceville.

In operation since November 2017, the Lawrenceville location has been giving the community the opportunity to discover just how amazing its next getaway could be for events such as birthday celebrations to family reunions. With a promise of “Advice you can trust, the best choice in prices, and Expedia extras,” the Lawrenceville Expedia CruiseShipCenter goes above and beyond to help every client find the way to his or her next adventure.

And don’t let the name fool you – Expedia CruiseShipCenters doesn’t limit its expertise to the waters!

“We do all things travel,” said Laura Long, the Lawrenceville Franchise Partner. “We can help you find the best local tours of an area, or show you how to find a biking group along the waterway. We do it all.”

If you are looking for a guided tour of your vacation destination, help with your air travel plans, or some expert advice on which hotels you should consider once you reach your next stop, Expedia CruiseShipCenters is ready to assist you. They partner with dozens of reputable cruise and tour operators to ensure that your vacation not only matches your budget, but also matches all the details that matter most to you. In a world with seemingly endless travel options, Expedia CruiseShipCenters knows how crucial it is to present you with customized plans that fit every one of your needs.

Such a wide range of proficiency and capability is made possible by the thirty Vacation Consultants that operate from the Lawrenceville location. They are dedicated to using their vast knowledge to show which travel options make the most sense for you, taking all the guesswork out of your travel decisions. Every consultant goes through a rigorous training program, and, more importantly, has a passion for travel. The consultants come to Expedia CruiseShipCenters with a love for exploring the world around them and a desire to help others achieve that same goal.

“The learning never stops,” said Laura of the team’s ever-increasing expertise. “They have more opportunities to travel and learn about all the services we and our partners offer.”

“Dr. Simmons is proud to offer Botox and Dermal Fillers. Call the office to schedule your consulta

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

Crowns 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 After

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Our superior services can recapture the health, functionality, and youthful appearance of your natural smile. Our practice focuses on providing 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 Our Town

The consultants also have the opportunity to set a schedule that works for them and their families, giving them even more chances to travel and learn about the industry they love.

It’s an industry that the nation has grown to love, as well – which is not surprising, when you realize that Expedia CruiseShipCenters around the country have been helping clients for thirty years.

Many of their events are about celebrating loved ones. Whether they are wishing a family Continued on page 20

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

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

Dr. John W. Simmons, IV

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 5

Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com

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Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultZ.com Cover Photographer Marcie Reif Photography Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Heidi Campbell K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Emily Haney Kim Hill Amy Ney Traci Sanders Beth Volpert Johansen Contributing Writers Bill Crane Patty Gabilondo Terie Hansen Tanisha Turner Pam Walker Jocelyn Wykoff

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm EndResultZ.com

Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett /Walton 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.

Stay Connected!

OurTownGwinnett.com

Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett

Visit the Our Town Community Forum for real time interaction though-out the month.

OurTownGwinnettCommunityForum.com

IN THIS ISSUE 5 7 8 9 9 10 10 12 13 14 15 15 17 17 18 19 19 20 21 21 PAGE 6

On the Cover: Cruise into Summer with Expedia CruiseShipCenters From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion One on One with Loganville High Baseball: A Championship Program Community Member Spotlight: Getting to Know Roger Bice Learning Lessons: Nurturing Good Character Traits in Preschoolers The Balancing Act Travel Tales: Fly Fishing Patagonia T-shirt Quilts – Giving New Life to Old Shirts Nothing but the Truth Ministry: Making a Difference in Lives The Upside is a Heartwarming Film, Regardless of its Many Critics Crane’s Corner: The Bush League Let’s Go Camping: How One Summer Camp is Changing Lives Pet Perch: The Choice is Yours, Lead or Be Led SportsTalk with Middle School Golf League A True Amazing Find in Loganville Paddling Along the Yellow River Water Trail Lawrenceville MLK Day Parade Developing 21st Century Life Skills through Yearbook Publishing Health Matters: Bringing the Best Care to Every Community Perimeter Roofing: Paying off Elementary School Lunch Balances

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Our Town

Thinking about recapturing the charm of your home?

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

Call us today for your free estimate!

@RyanSauers

By Ryan T. Sauers

I hope everyone is off to a great February. Our community continues to prosper. Why? We are blessed with amazing people who choose to live, work, and play right here in Our Town. We should be proud of our community. Most communities are not as close as the ones we have. With that said, our attention span is short (or some might argue non-existent), so here are three points to ponder.

1. People love to laugh. How many times have you heard a funny story that made your day? How often have you seen something so silly that it just makes you laugh hard? You know – when you just keep laughing and can’t stop? How much fun do we have with long term friends who we can truly be ourselves with? A lot of fun. And what do we do? Yes, we laugh. Make someone’s day and make them laugh.

2. People love to have fun. Why do you see so many people playing fantasy football, going to costume/theme parties, and/or playing mindless games on their mobile devices? Many use these things as breaks from their everyday routine and to relieve stress from our constantly connected world. They are fun, simple, and mindless. Have you ever seen adults dress up in full gear for football games? People really get into it. Why? We all love to have fun. This “feeling like a kid again” is the magic that most experience when they visit Disneyworld. And, it is what Disney is selling. We are supposed to act like kids and smile there. And, (in case you missed the memo) it is okay to have fun each day of your life. It is contagious.

3. People love technology yet miss the personal touch. How many of us just want someone to handle our requests in a timely manner, get things right the first time, and save us time/stress when we are dealing with a problem that we’ve had with a good, service, etc.? I know I do. But instead we hear, “For faster service, visit us online.” Note: this is CODE for, “Don’t call us. We are busy, and if you go online, we don’t have to talk to you, or staff as many people.” Technology may be the best and worst thing that has happened to the personal touch. Thus, be sure technology Continued on page 19

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PAGE 7

One on One with Loganville High Baseball: A Championship Program

By K. Coats All across Georgia, baseball teams are gearing up. Be it recreational, church, high school, or college, baseball season is upon us. And for the Loganville Red Devils, the season comes with some high expectations. Last year, the team won their 5A state championship match against the Buford Wolves, claiming their fourth state champion title. For the Red Devils, this makes another notch in their belt of a long list of honors, including four state runner-ups and numerous individual player awards.

Coach Jeff Segar elaborated on the team’s potential. “Based on how we did with some of the similar teams,” he stated,

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“we had a lot of success this year. I feel like our team could step on the field with pretty much anyone in the county.”

Segar explained some of his favorite moments are “really just watching the returning players,” he said, “just really stay disciplined and focused and not taking it for granted. They really improved a lot over the year.” And one of the best parts of coaching the Red Devils is watching how these returning players have grown and matured.

The Loganville baseball program has a long history within the community and has produced some impressive names over the years, including Brandon Moss, Clint Frazier, and Logan Maddox. And the momentum doesn’t seem to be slowing down. Last year’s 2018 State Champion team had some

strong players, and particular accolades go to the pitching staff, Bay Witcher, Joseph Brandon, and Seth Clark. “They kinda set the tone on the mound for us in each game,” Segar said. “We always knew we were going to get a great performance.” But it wasn’t just the mound where impressions were made. He added, “I thought offensively...Bryant Pietri (1st/3rd base) and Dylan Strickland (shortstop) were pretty consistent all year.”

With the loss of eleven seniors moving on to play on teams such as Troy, GSU, North GA, and Gardner-Webb, Segar is looking forward to seeing other players step up and lead.

He’s feeling positive and is looking forward to “Good offense, Continued on page 22

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Our Town

Learning Lessons: Nurturing Good Character Traits in Preschoolers

By Tanisha Turner

Community Member Spotlight: Getting to Know Roger Bice

By K. Coats It’s a common amusement for many children to pretend to play an instrument along with the radio – eyes closed, hands and arms strumming or drumming along. Some precocious kids take it a step further and conduct the recording with arms raised and posture straight, demanding the best of their musicians. One of those kids was Roger Bice, and his basement conducting sessions were a hint to what would eventually become a lifetime of music, most recently culminating in a performance at Carnegie Hall. “I remember when I was in elementary school I would go downstairs, put a recorded copy of an orchestral arrangement called ‘The Long Ships’ on the recorded player, and stand in the middle of the basement and conduct my imaginary orchestra,” Bice recalls. “It must have been the great leading of their eight-year-old conductor because the orchestra looked and sounded great and never made a mistake.” Well those sessions have certainly paid off, and the congregation at Westside Baptist Church in Snellville, where Bice is the Minister of Worship and Music, can attest to.

The piano is Bice’s main instrument, but he can also play the clarinet and is a talented tenor vocalist as well. Beginning lessons at the age of nine, Bice is entering his 59th year as a dedicated pianist with a long line of performances, the first being a televised performance while in the 6th grade. But lest one think this came easily, Bice claims, “When I realized that I had been gifted with musical talent, I poured all my efforts into being the best musician I could be. I was not a prodigy, so it took years of hard work and commitment.”

And that same attitude and philosophy has formed the backbone of Roger Bice’s playing. He considers his music a ministry of the church, and his calling to perform both at church and away a spiritual one. His earliest training and performance experience were all courtesy of his church.

He recalls, “I never lose sight that my talent to play and sing is a gift from God. I began playing for the church our family attended when I was in ninth grade. On Sundays each Sunday school department would start with an opening assembly that always included singing. This was the start of my accompanying a large group of people.” And with a congregation numbering in the thousands, Bice had plenty to practice each and every Sunday. Decades later, that same high school musician found himself on stage at Carnegie Hall.

The performance was organized by the Lawrenceville-Suwanee School of Music where Bice is one of its instructors. The concert also featured nine-time Grammy award winner Bobbie Sparks.

“My solo piece,” Bice explains, “was ‘My Tribute’ a sacred song written by Andre Crouch. I took the song and made my own arrangement. It is my ‘go to’ song and is well received because it begins and ends very big, and by the time I am finished I have played almost every one of the 88 keys on the piano. I have played this piece since I was in college, and it will always remain one of my favorites. I received great reviews from my performance. Along with my solo piece, I accompanied five vocalists. Songs included ‘You Raised Me Up,’ ‘Part of Your World,’ and ‘Beauty and the Beast.’”

Backstage at Carnegie Hall is just as interesting, apparently, as the front. “It was so surreal,” Bice recalls. “When I was in the holding hallway ready to go on stage, I looked at the floor to ceiling photos lining the hallway of the great musicians who have performed at the famed venue.

Over my right shoulder was Judy Garland, and next to Miss Garland was Benny Goodman. On the left was Ella Fitzgerald and the Beatles. As you walk down the hallway, there are more photos of great classical musicians, Isaac Stern and Vladimir Horowitz. I asked myself how I got from that small black spinet piano that I started studying piano on to this moment playing a nine foot Continued on page 14

Our Town

Every parent wants his or her child to develop character traits such as compassion, generosity, and kindness, but how do you get from point A to point B? Are preschoolers capable of learning and understanding these traits?

And if so, how can parents and caregivers support their development?

According to the National Scientific Council on the Developing Child, the early years of a child’s life lay the foundation for a wide range of important developmental outcomes like self-confidence, mental health, and the motivation to learn. The earlier these softer skills are fostered in young children, the more likely they are to be successful in school and later in life. And while it may seem like your child is too young to grasp these concepts, the foundational behaviors needed to develop empathy and other social-emotional skills that make us good people are actually nurtured in the first years of life.

Oftentimes the best way to teach young children about these intangible skills and traits is to provide hands-on learning opportunities and to reinforce the concepts in a variety of ways.

Primrose Schools suggests the following tips for parents and caregivers to use at home: Build an understanding of different traits. Even at a young age, children begin to build their understanding of traits like generosity, respect, and gratitude. Read books such as I Can Share by Karen Katz (ages 2-5) and When I Care About Others by Cornelia Maude Spelman (ages 4-7) with your child and take the opportunity to discuss the positive traits that the characters possess.

Ask questions and help your child apply the concepts in the book to real-life experiences.

Introduce important life skills. Even very young children can begin to learn about essential life skills, such as manners, safety, and caring for the environment. Letting children take care of their very own plant will promote responsibility while also teaching the importance of caring for Continued on page 10

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PAGE 9

Learning Lessons Continued from page 9

The Balancing Act

the world around them. Modeling these life skills is also a great way to introduce them, especially for younger children.

Make time for hands-on learning. Children get most excited about giving back when they are able to experience it firsthand. Introduce your child to helping those in need by starting small in your community. Whether it’s collecting coats for a clothing drive or making cards for the local nursing home, it’s rewarding to see your child begin to understand the huge impact a simple project can have.

Young children learn through repetition and observation. One of the best ways for you to nurture positive character traits is to lead by example and consistently model what it means to be a good person. Sooner than later your child will start imitating you and be on their way to becoming a kind and caring individual.

Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.

PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com

By Jocelyn Wykoff

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Beverly D’Amico RN, MSN, GRS Life Coach & Grief Recovery Counselor TheHeartofWhatMatters.com 770-896-3871 TheHeartofWhatMatters@gmail.com

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Our goals are to help the patients: • Decrease Pain • Decrease the need for strong chronic pain medications • Decrease unnecessary surgeries • Increase function • Increase quality of life through the best spectrum of conservative management.

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Likeable. This year I have felt a tremendous shift in the seasons of my life. And with this shift, I have begun to evaluate me – a self-assessment if you will. Ecclesiastes 3:2-3 says, “ To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up…” and so on. I have always thought of myself as a pretty likeable person, but I really began digging deeper after reading one of my favorite blogs that asked: “What is it that makes a person likeable and do I possess these qualities? And how does this fit into this season I’m entering?”

So, what makes a person likeable? Do they listen more and talk less, present a positive outlook and great body language? Are they accountable for their actions? Dependable? Confident? Nonjudgmental?

Yes, yes, and yes!

And like a yummy recipe, a likeable person would have a dash of all of these qualities to mix up just perfect to create the ultimate dish.

After reading these qualities and verse I found myself inspired. Even though I feel I fall short in some of these areas, I’m driven in my season to improve me and become a more likeable person, better friend, and better employee – to listen more because sometimes that’s all someone may need. Dependable – a shoulder to cry on when life throws a wrench in the plans. To focus more on the positive and not let the daily distractions bog me down and derail my attitude or outlook.

To not place judgement on others. And, to be more confident but not overly assertive.

While no one can ever achieve perfection, our standard should be to strive to be the best we can be – better human, better spouse, better parent, better friend, and better employee.

I don’t know who said this, but love it and believe in it: “The best feeling in the world is when the person you like, likes you back.”

Jocelyn Wykoff is a dreamer, believer, wife, and mompreneur of the Wykoff Household.

Travel Tales: Fly Fishing Patagonia

By Pam Walker What I know about fly fishing you could put on the head of a pin.

So, when asked to visit Patagonia, I thought …this is my chance to learn!

I flew to Buenos Aires and then to Bariloche with an hour drive to Villa Angostura. Arroyo Verde, the famed fly fishing lodge, was further on down a dirt road.

No signs, no directions – just a general sense of where we were going. We headed into the Traful River canyon until we got to a gate manned by a gaucho. Complete with red bandana, white shirt, and black “bombachas” (big wide pants) tucked into his boots, the gaucho opened the gate and let us pass into the valley. Fifteen minutes later we were greeted first by more gauchos, and then by riders on horseback.

After another twenty minutes, we saw a lovely chalet in the distance with a sculpture garden along a stream. Estancia Arroyo Verde!

This private fishing and riding estancia is home to one of Argentina’s most elite families. The land was originally a gift to the family. In Argentina, as in the rest of South America, it is all about “who you know.” Like most people who live here, the family returns to Buenos Aires for the winter months. Remember that in the southern hemisphere, their summer is our winter and our winter is their summer.

Arroyo Verde is home to land-locked salmon, brown and rainbow trout, and more. It is a catch and release river from November through April. The fish can reach up to 29 inches for rainbows and browns, and they swim right up to you in the crystal-clear water. Best of all, bring only your favorite fly rod. Everything else is available on site. Imagine standing in the river surrounded by the Andes. What more could you ask for? Miles of nothingness surrounds this pristine spot. Did I learn to fly fish? Maybe! Too bad I had to come home!

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel consultant. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com

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With the availability and affordability of screen printing, t-shirts have become more popular than ever. They are the most common souvenir these days – outpacing coffee mugs, key chains, and bumper stickers. Does anyone even collect snow globes anymore? We even say, “Been there.

Done that. Got the t-shirt.” You can now get them for most events: road races, family reunions, clubs, concerts, VBS, school, and especially anything sports-related. For many of us, our closets are bursting with t-shirts of which only a small percentage actually get worn. It’s common to have a sacred collection of shirts – be it from high school, college, a fraternity, or otherwise – that we simply refuse to throw away. But while our memories may be plentiful, storage often is not. Walk through any second-hand store, and you’ll see plenty of discarded shirts from various occasions.

Particularly sad are the uniforms that are donated.

As graduation season looms, many parents may be wondering what will become of their senior’s piles of shirts since they aren’t “allowed” to get rid of them. Bags of clothes sit around in closets, garages, and attics, waiting for nothing. So what’s to be done with these fabric memories?

A lot of people have found that making them into t-shirt and memory quilts is an excellent alternative. The shirts are seen once again and put to good use.

There are plenty of local folks who, in addition to several online companies, offer this service.

However, since quilting itself is an art form, not all services will result in the same product or quality. If you’re interested in getting a quilt made from your t-shirts, uniforms, or any other clothes, here’s a helpful guide on how to ensure the best quality product.

Blanket – is it actually a quilt or a blanket? A quilt is different from a blanket in a couple of major ways. A blanket may have one or two layers, but a quilt will have three – a front, back, and middle (called batting) – that are sewn together with a design. This sewing of the layers together is called “quilting,” and it’s what separates a quilt from a regular blanket. It’s why they last many years longer than a blanket.

Materials – what’s included with the price? The batting and backing of a quilt can be quite expensive. Quality batting can cost anywhere from $30 to$60+. The backing fabric can require anywhere from 4-8 yards of fabric, and quality fabric can run anywhere from $8 to $15 a yard.

So when you look at a price, remember to check and see what that price includes. A seemingly small price can add up quickly if it doesn’t include the backing and batting.

Stabilizer – do they use it? If you’ve ever cut a t-shirt, you’ll notice that the material, jersey knit, rolls and shifts a lot. When making a quilt from fabric like this, a quilter needs to use a material called a “stabilizer” to ensure the fabric doesn’t roll, shift, or bunch up as the quilt is sewn together and later quilted. When used, a stabilizer gives the shirts a clean look that is flat and straight.

Batting – what kind of batting do they use? Batting can be made of several different materials.

Polyester is the most cost effective, but it doesn’t last as well over the years and it isn’t as warm.

Cotton is warm and washes well over the years. Wool batting is the most expensive as well as the warmest, but it does come with the same tricky washing guidelines that all wool products do.

Most t-shirt quilts will go for polyester or cotton. Cotton is generally more reliable and longerlasting.

Quilting – the closer the quilting design, the longer it’ll last. The quilting that goes throughout a quilt holds it together and makes it last over the years. That being said, most batting does well with a quilting pattern that is spaced 10” or closer. It also drapes better and lasts through multiple washes longer. Quilting patterns spaced too far apart will often result in batting that shifts or Continued on page 14

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Nothing but the Truth Ministry: Making a Difference

By Emily Haney Scarlett Rigsby never imagined that she and her dog, Truth, would be running a ministry.

When she was laid off from the YMCA eighteen years ago, she had to find a new path. She felt the Lord was leading her towards a different kind of work, but she wasn’t sure what yet. A mission trip to Eastern Kentucky later, Rigsby knew she wanted to help children— leading her on the path of starting Nothing but the Truth Ministry.

The name came before the ministry. She knew a puppy was coming along and prayed for a name. “As we met people I wanted to show who God is in what we do,” said Rigsby. “One day the verse John 14:6 kept flooding my mind. It’s about truth and light because Jesus said that’s who He is.” So that became the name of the ministry’s mascot, with the name for the ministry’s being based on the same Scripture.

In 2010, the group piloted a program that would provide meals for the weekend for fifteen students in need at one school. Today they pack meals each week for forty-five schools and around 1,000 students. From working with schools, Rigsby learned how students were classified as homeless and how some were living in extended stay hotels. She worked to start a weekly Bible study at the hotels that included a meal. The ministry began to grow from this weekend food ministry.

Nothing but the Truth focuses on the mind, body, and spirit of the people they serve. They offer adult ESL classes, reading help for kids, life groups, and Truth Homes, just to name a few.

Truth Homes are transitional housing for families that live in extended stay places or are classified as homeless. A family will move in for a year to have some time to get caught up and catch their breath. “They’re in a more stable environment where we equip them with the tools to be self-sufficient when they move out,” said Rigsby. “It helps kids succeed in school as well if they’re not roaming around in hotels or homeless.”

Building relationships and equipping people with tools is the main focus of the ministry.

“We’re not a handout ministry,” said Rigsby. “We’re an equipping ministry.” They believe that if they can aid someone in getting back on his or her feet without just giving handouts, then that person can thrive. According to Rigsby, they want the people they help to see themselves as God created them and to be loved. Nothing but the Truth focuses on getting to know those they serve by returning week after week.

Truth, the mascot, helps Nothing but the Truth build relationships. “Whenever we go in to places like apartment complexes, we have Truth there to help us build the bridge,” said Rigsby.

“Most kids like the pretty dog and want to come pet her. She starts the conversation.”

Rigsby said that they pray for the next neighborhood to help. “The Lord brings in community partner’s that lead us to who we’re looking for. Those who are having life struggles, we want to show them that they’re not forgotten.” They always find the perfect fit.

Scarlett Rigsby is the creator of Nothing but the Truth Ministry. More information at https://nothingbutthetruth146.org

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T-shirts Quilts Continued from page 12 bunches after a short while, leaving a lumpy and unattractive quilt.

The “Movie Test” – a short self-check that is an easy gauge of a t-shirt quilt or t-shirt blanket’s quality. If you put on a full-length movie and sat down with scissors and a seam-ripper, would you be able to disassemble that entire quilt or blanket by the end of the credits? If you could, then the quality was lower. A good quilt takes ages to take apart because of the materials and close-set quilting design.

These are some of the basic elements that will vary greatly among t-shirt quilt services. Don’t be afraid to ask them for specifics and options. Pinterest has a lot of great ideas, but be careful in matching your design expectations to costs. The fancier the design, the more time and materials will need to be invested into it. Online services offer lower prices, but local services can offer more customization. Whichever way you decide, here’s to reviving those happy memories and freeing up storage space all in one product!

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The Upside is a Heartwarming Film, Regardless of its Many Critics

By Heidi Campbell The current box office hit, The Upside, directed

by Neil Burger, is arguably far more entertaining than Rotten Tomatoes would lead viewers to believe. The film, which was designated a 39% on the “Tomatometer,” was criticized for being predictable, cliché, and “preachy.” There is certainly a case for all three of these claims, yet this touching, comedic, inspiring film is also highly engaging, which explains why that same Rotten Tomatoes report has the Audience Score at an 88%.The Upside is a true story adapted from the French film Les Untouchables. Rated PG-13 for drug use and adult language, the film was released on January 11, and has already raked in over $48 million dollars at the box office.

The Upside is the story of multi-millionaire Phillip Lacasse (played by Bryan Cranston), a quadriplegic who is hiring a “life auxiliary” to assist him with his daily needs. Ex-convict Dell Scott, played by Kevin Hart, fortuitously “happens upon” this interview and gets the job, not having a clue about what the job entails. His employment disgusts Phillip’s personal assistant Yvonne Pendleton, played by Nicole Kidman, who tells Dell, several times, “You are not qualified for this position.” Phillip, however, doesn’t care about Dell’s qualifications; he wants to do something that will break his life’s monotony. In typical Hollywood style, the opposites attract and Dell and Phillip develop a life-long friendship. Of course, the story line is just as predictable as the critics’ claim. Predictable, however, can be comforting, and this movie is just that.

The influence that Dell’s brutal honesty has on the other characters is predictable, but the audience cheers for his success, and fingers remain crossed that he will positively influence his wealthy boss. The film uses stereotypes to cross racial boundaries and bring about unity. When Dell attends his first opera with Phillip, for example, his initial behavior is absolutely cringeworthy. By the end, however, Dell is on his way to becoming an opera aficionado. Phillip, in return, embraces Dell’s love of Aretha Franklin, and says, “Yeah, it’s uncanny” when Dell claims to sound “just like her.” The humor between the two characters seems contrived at times, but the roaring laughter in the audience indicates viewers are completely entertained.

There is no doubt that the very basis of the film is cliché: a poor, African American parolee befriends a rich, white quadriplegic. The two seem to have nothing in common, yet their friendship develops against all odds. Of course, this is cliché, but this is based on a true story, so apparently LIFE is cliché! Cranston and Hart are believable and endearing as they bounce one-liners off each other effortlessly. Cranston expertly acts the part of a man who can only move his head; he is a man who hates his life, but has not completely given up hope. It is this same sense of hope that Dell embraces, in wanting to rise above his past mistakes. Both men have the power to help each other, and the result is a feel-good movie – just the type of appealing film Hollywood likes to produce.

The film is hilarious and offers insights into two opposite socioeconomic levels, pointing out that both ends have their own useful experiences and knowledge that can be universally helpful and harmful. Is the film preachy? Yes. It preaches against stereotypes, against racism, against classism, and against academic snobbery, and it does it with grace and humor. At one point, Dell tells Phillip, “You can have any girl you want. What about this lady with all the Botox? You’re perfect for each other. You can’t move your body, and she can’t move her face.” The film expertly takes seriously depressing life situations and finds an “upside” to them.

The Upside is entertaining and worth its ticket price for those seeking a good laugh and a heartwarming story. Does the comical ex-con manage to break through the brick exterior of the million-dollar man in less than rare fashion? Absolutely. Is it a good reminder that we should all have hope, no matter how terrible our situation may seem? Absolutely. Are stereotypes questioned and broken? Yes. There is a reason that millions of people enjoy these “feel good” films – they inspire and prove, as the old cliché says, that “anything is possible.” If viewers can overlook the flaws highlighted by the critics, The Upside can be an excellent choice for an entertaining night out.

Roger Bice Continued from page 9 concert Steinway grand piano at Carnegie Hall.” Practice, sir. Practice and a lifetime of dedication. That’s how.

Bice was called back to the stage afterward and presented with a commemorative framed certificate to celebrate his performance. And after all this, after the concerts, certificates, and honors, Bice still echoes his early roots as a church accompanist. He gives credit to God for his gifts and talents, and he continues to bless those around him with them. He states, “I have to give all the glory to the Lord because all my talent and experiences come from Him. ‘Delight thyself also in the Lord and He shall give Thee the desires of thy heart,’ Psalm 37:4.”

Roger Bice is the Minister of Worship and Music at Westside Baptist Church in Snellville and an instructor at the Lawrenceville-Suwanee School of Music. More information at www.lawrencevillesuwaneeschoolofmusic.com.

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Crane’s Corner: The Bush League

By Bill Crane “I was offered a job on Wall Street by my uncle. But I wanted to get out. Make it on my own kinda thing,” George H.W. Bush (1924-2018), the 41st President of the United States to his biographer.

Perhaps not our most articulate president, Bush was among the most genuine of the modern era. Born possibly with the silver spoon that former Texas Governor Anne Richards so derisively spoke of, George H. W. Bush, the son of a former Wall Street banker and powerful US Senator, Prescott Bush (R-Connecticut), graduated prep school and at age 18 joined the Navy. By age 19, he became the US Navy’s youngest aviator and aircraft tail-gunner. Shot down over the Pacific in 1944, Bush would parachute out of his flaming aircraft after also hitting most of his assigned bomber targets. Following a post-war graduation from Yale, Bush broke out for Texas and a shot at the oil business with his young bride, Barbara.

While Bush had modest successes in the oil business, he would soon begin to cut a path of public service. Bush was elected to Congress, representing suburban Houston. He later was a twice unsuccessful candidate for the US Senate. President Richard Nixon appointed Bush as Ambassador to the United Nations, and then Chairman of the Republican National Committee during the Watergate years. Bush was one of the first voices to publicly call, in a written letter to Nixon, for the president to resign for the good of the country. Ford would later appoint Bush as US Envoy to China, and then Director of the C.I.A. When Bush began his campaign for president in 1979, he was joined early by a prominent Georgia Republican Paul Coverdell, and their strong friendship would last for decades.

After winning the White House in 1988, Bush appointed Coverdell as US Peace Corps Director, and in 1992, Coverdell left the administration and returned to Georgia to seek the US Senate seat held by incumbent Democrat Wyche Fowler.

Coverdell faced four statewide elections that year, including the state’s first US Senate runoff. On that long runoff election night, three weeks after Bush had lost his own re-election to President-elect Bill Clinton, President Bush was attempting to keep tabs on the race of his pal Coverdell.

But in 1992, Al Gore had not yet invented the internet, and the Associated Press did not track results of state contests for national wire distribution. The president’s eldest son, and family campaign manager, George W. Bush, was constantly calling my mobile phone for updates to relay to his father, who had lost the White House three weeks prior, and his beloved mother Dorothy Walker Bush the week prior.

With election results swaying back and forth all night, only the north metro Atlanta suburbs remained to be tallied, George Bush asked me via mobile, “What’s still out?”

I told him what we knew was that most of North Fulton County was still out (some things never change).

Amidst the sound of rustling papers W. said, “You mean places like Roswell, and Alpharetta?”

I had forgotten at the time that the president had kicked off his re-election campaign in nearby Woodstock.

“Yes, those are still out,” I said.

“Well,” W. said, “Dad carried Roswell by more than 70 percent, and Alpharetta by nearly 80. I’m going to go ahead and tell him that Paul has won.”

Before I could tell him to wait, or to make it across that ballroom to Coverdell with the phone, the unmistakable voice of Poppy Bush came on.

“Congratulations, Senator,” he said.

I apologized and asked the president to repeat himself as I thrust the phone into the hands and ear of my boss, soon to be Senator-elect Paul Coverdell.

The slightly premature congratulations boosted Coverdell’s ego. A smile beamed across his face as he thanked the president for bothering to keep track.

“You’ll be our 51st senator, Paul...this one is more important than either of us.”

The Bush family’s favored biographer, Jon Meacham, has often referred to 41 as “The Last Gentleman.” I don’t think that is quite accurate as George W. Bush (43), his brother Governor Jeb Bush of Florida, and a few others in public life still remain in the arena, but it is a shrinking league, which was once a much larger league of extra-ordinary gentlemen. Thankfully, the Bush bloodline isn’t quite done serving America yet, and thankfully there are still a few stars America hasn’t met quite yet in that Bush league. God bless you, Mr. President.

Crane is the senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns the full-service communications consulting firm, CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com

Our Town

Let’s Go Camping: How One Summer Camp is Changing Lives

By Kristen Eleveld Summer is coming, and you’re already asking the question that parents around the country are all thinking: What should you do with the kids this summer? Whether you need a safe and fun place for them to go while you’re at work, or you just want to keep them from playing video games inside for two months, you know it’s crucial to engage your kids in fun activities that will get them out into the beautiful outdoors.

That’s why High Meadows Camp has been offering enriching and educational activities for children since 1973.

With activities ranging from arts and crafts, sports, pony rides, and nature studies for the younger campers, and options like animal care, ropes course, canoeing, and performing arts for the older crowd, High Meadows Camp knows how to give its campers a unique experience that will stay with them for a lifetime.

“Our campers are able to challenge themselves through our activities, discovering and developing talents in an environment that celebrates childhood,” said Director of Camp John Dovic, who has been with the program for twenty-one years. “They are encouraged by positive role models, inspiring them to become their best possible selves.”

Indeed, there is no shortage of inspiration to be found at this gorgeous, 40-acre facility that is filled with streams, meadows, hiking trails, and dozens of other nature scenes. Campers between the ages of four and fourteen are invited to challenge themselves and try new activities that will teach them valuable skills.

“Children return to High Meadows Camp summer after summer to renew strong friendships and to progress in personal achievements in our activities,” said Dovic.

And the experience isn’t over once a participant ages out as a camper. They can return to High Meadows Camp to partake in a two-summer leadership training program that helps campers recognize the skills and talents they have to share, and prepares them with 21st century job skills. Many even become camp counselors to continue promoting positive youth development at High Meadows.

“When children attend High Meadows, they truly become members of a strong, caring, and enriching community,” Dovic said. “Campers are welcomed and respected for their uniqueness within a vibrant, diverse community.”

High Meadows Camp sits nearby in Roswell, ready and waiting for new campers each summer.

They are accredited by the American Camp Association in acknowledgement of their dedication to the highest quality standards in camp operation. In short, they are the best of the best, and your child will walk away from each session with new skills, new confidence, and a grasp of what it truly means to explore the great outdoors.

If you are interested in registering your child for High Meadows Camp this summer, don’t wait! Spots begin filling up at the beginning of the year, and you won’t want to miss your chance to experience this amazing facility firsthand.

“High Meadows is characterized by traditional and unique programming, dedicated and mature staff members, and a commitment to providing a fun experience that also intentionally focuses on self-improvement, relationship building, and skill development,” Dovic said. “We hope all of our campers find High Meadows to be a place of joy, acceptance, adventure, friendship, and learning.”

John Dovic, Director of Camp. More information at www.highmeadowscamp.org.

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Pet Perch: The Choice is Yours, Lead or Be Led

By Terie Hansen If the dog in front of you is not the dog you thought he or she would be (or the dog you wished for), look in the mirror. That sounds harsh, but it’s meant only to be clear and direct. It may not be the dog you thought it would be because: You are inconsistent in setting boundaries or don’t set many if any boundaries at all, creating a nervous dog.

You don’t create a structured environment for your dog to live in, creating an anxious dog.

You don’t share consequences for unwanted behavior, creating a bratty dog.

You share rewards (affection, attention, food, treats, toys, etc.) whether your dog behaves or not, creating an entitled dog.

You share too much affection, and at inappropriate times, creating a pushy, demanding dog.

You don’t follow through when giving commands, ensuring they do as you’ve asked 100% of the time, creating a dog that doesn’t respect or take you seriously.

In other words, you are not leading, you are being led.

And all of this may be solely because you lack the knowledge to train a dog.

Creating a well-behaved dog takes effort AND know how. The effort is the hardest part for most people. How badly do you want your dog to be different? If you want to see a change in your dog, you must change how you interact with him or her.

Many people put up with behaviors that are inconsistent with a message of leadership because in the short term it would take effort to change their dog and themselves. But really, in the long term it takes more effort to live with an ill-behaved dog than it does a well-behaved one.

In any given situation with your pet, ask yourself, “Am I leading or being led?”

Terie Hansen is Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More information at www.gooddogcoaching.com .

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SportsTalk with Middle School Golf League

By Our Town Staff The Middle School Golf League announced that registration for the 2019 spring season will open Feb 1st and is scheduled to close on Feb 15th. However, participation will be limited to the first 100 registrants. Play will begin in March and run through the end of May. Parents can register their Middle School players by going to the Middle School Golf League website at: www. middleschoolgolfleague.com The Middle School Golf League is organized with parents registering through the South Gwinnett Athletic Association. Players are assigned teams based on middle school attendance, and they receive golf shirts with their middle school or feeder high school colors. Play during the spring season will again be at Dacula’s Trophy Club of Apalachee, Lawrenceville’s Collins Hill Golf Course, Loganville’s Cedar Lake Golf Course, and Snellville’s County Club of Gwinnett and Summit Chase Country Club.

“We had a great fall season with teams representing Bay Creek, Couch, Crews, Creekland, Dacula, Five Forks, Loganville, McConnell, Shiloh, and Trickum,” said League Director Les Witmer. “We’re really proud of the support we are getting from the middle schools, our golf courses, the high school golf coaches, and our parents.”

Continued on page 20

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PAGE 17

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Necessities By Sherrie Bra Fitting Specialist Since 2004

If you’ve ever ventured down Main Street in downtown Loganville but haven’t taken the time to look to your left or right, you’ve been missing out on one of the most precious gems the city has to offer.

Amazing Finds is a charming thrift store owned and founded by Sherry Wise. She opened the doors to serve Loganville families in need seven years ago. In fact, Amazing Finds celebrated its seventh Christmas this year by allowing children in the community to come inside and choose up to five toys each!

And don’t be fooled by the size of the storefront. Beyond the two burgundy doors, patrons will find a lovely, spacious, well-organized boutique filled with men’s and women’s clothing, shoes, jewelry, purses, and more. The children’s room is laid out by size and gender to help patrons find items with ease, and a children’s movie is always playing to keep the little ones close by and entertained while parents shop.

If you’re looking for home décor on a budget, Amazing Finds has you covered. Sherry scours estate sales and flea markets to score the best deals on quality furniture and home décor pieces to provide for the Loganville community at the best prices.

Every room and every window display are constructed with personal care and love from Sherry and her staff of volunteers. The clothes are washed before being displayed for sale, and the staff even goes the extra mile in labeling each clothing item on the correctly sized hanger and including a size tab for clearer visibility, which makes the shopping experience seamless and fun. As well, there is plenty of safe parking in the lot behind the building.

As if clothing families and furnishing their homes wasn’t enough, Sherry has a heart for the elderly in the community. Rarely does a day goes by that her own father, Ray Lake, who just turned eighty-one, is not sitting behind the display counter petting his little dog Ginger. Sherry keeps her father close by these days, having lost her mother to dementia, and finally pneumonia, a few years ago. Mr. Ray – or “Dad” as most people know him – also enjoys interacting with the customers and providing lunch for the staff. It’s important to Sherry that her father feels respected and needed.

To further honor the elderly, Amazing Finds houses a food pantry that each month feeds over 130 grandparents who are providing for their grandchildren. These senior citizens can come shop for dry foods, milk, frozen meats, and canned vegetables once per week.

When asked how she can keep her doors open while also blessing so many people in the community, Sherry is quick to say, “This is not me. I can’t do anything without God. He tells me what to do and I obey.”

It’s obvious that Sherry is working through a higher power as she greets every single person who walks into her store as if they are family. In fact, Ms. Wise mentioned during our interview several times, “My customers are my family.”

After spending some time with this lovely lady, and seeing her interact with her customers in passing, it’s clear that the true amazing find in this city isn’t the family-friendly boutique on the corner. It’s the owner, Ms. Sherry Wise, who makes every person feel like family.

So, the next time you happen to be in the area, step inside Amazing Finds Thrift Store and you might just be surprised to discover exactly what you need. At the very least, you’re sure to walk away with the confidence that there are still good people in the world, and Loganville seems to have been blessed with one of them.

More information at https://www.facebook.com/amazingfindsclothingshop/

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Our Town

Paddling Along the Yellow River Water Trail

By Emily Haney Your next outdoor adventure might be closer than you think. Just fifty-three miles from Gwinnett County down to Lake Jackson in Newton County, the Yellow River provides not only scenic views all year round, but they also have a large and active paddling community.

Helping to keep the river clean and accessible for recreational use is the Yellow River Water Trail, a nonprofit group formed in 2014. Mark Wilson, Yellow River Water Trail Vice Chairman, says the group is “concerned with river and watershed health; but also fostering a partnership with citizens, local governments, and businesses to promote healthy outdoor recreation and economic and social opportunities.”

Every year the group hosts two large scale events: The Yellow River Music Jam and River Paddle, and the Yellow River Trash Bash. The first is a free social event in Porterdale where people have the opportunity to paddle six miles downstream, then take-out at Porterdale Park and enjoy food and brews and music from invited bands. Donations are appreciated, with all proceeds going to maintaining the river.

This year the third annual Trash Bash was held in late 2018. In partnership with the Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful, the Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation, the Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources, and Rivers Alive, the event was one of the largest in size with 153 volunteers picking up more than 7,000 pounds of trash across the 18 sites that had been set up. Fifteen of the cleanup sites were located in Gwinnett County. “We pick up mostly plastic water bottles, Styrofoam, spoons, and forks,” commented Wilson. “It really points to the single use plastic people use.” Volunteers also found dozens of tires and, according to Wilson, the oddest find was a mannequin head that he suspected was once part of a school project “We thought that 15 to 18 sites seemed like almost too much, but it was just right this year,” added Wilson. “The population of people coming out is doubling, so I think we will add a few more sites in Gwinnett and other counties next year.”

Wilson and the Yellow River Water Trail also partake in water testing, where several areas of the river throughout the month are tested to ensure nothing is out of the norm. This is also an activity you can do with your local creek through Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful, which keeps a record of all of the results they receive. As Wilson put it, you can be your own “local river keeper.”

The Yellow River Water Trail is all about encouraging people to get out, use, and help preserve their local rivers, no matter the size. “You’re upstream from someone else’s water sources,” said Wilson. “There’s fish that live in it and wildlife that drink it. Just take care of it, and it’ll take care of you.”

More information at www.facebook.com/yellowriverwatertrail/ or www.yellowriverwatertrail.org/

One Man’s Opinion Continued from page 7 works for us and that we do not work for it. The personal touch in relationships matters now more than ever.

So, there you have it. If we want to communicate more effectively, we must consider our audience. Do we make other people laugh and have fun? After all, adults are just big kids at heart.

Being “normal” (whatever that means) is pretty boring. So, be YOU and enjoy living in your own skin and quit worrying what other people are doing. People will talk about you no matter what you do. So, my advice, give them something good to talk about. Time is ticking and today is “a present,” “the present,” and “our present.” So, make the best out of each hour you have and encourage and inspire each other. Nobody wants to hear all your sad, woe is me, and end of the world stories. So, for lack of a better example, be more like Tigger and less like Eeyore. For younger readers please visit G..O..O..G..L..E. I wish everyone a super February. And until next month, make someone’s day. WOW them.

Why? Because it feels great, and it is an amazing thing to do. Be upbeat, encouraging, and smile – and laugh if all else fails: “fake it until you feel it.” And until next time and as always, this is my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

Our Town

Leadership, YOU are the Difference: 2019 Lawrenceville MLK Day Parade

By Beth Volpert Johansen With Gwinnett having celebrated its 200th year, the county seat of Lawrenceville is more vibrant and relevant than ever. While the historic courthouse square plays center stage to tempting restaurants, delightful shops, a bookstore, and even a brewery, Lawrenceville is also the anchor for blending the past with the future in one of the most dynamic communities in the metro Atlanta area. Part of the attraction is the diverse nature of the residents and the variety of outreaches from all walks of life. To celebrate that diversity of leadership, the 2019 Martin Luther King Day (MLK) Parade theme will be “Leadership, YOU are the Difference.”

Originally conceived by the United Ebony Society’s Robbie Susan Moore, the annual MLK Day parade has grown from an idea to a day-long community celebration. Known for embracing all neighbors, the United Ebony Society has long held the parade and community events following the parade at Moore Middle School as a time for positive interaction. “The whole day is about representing cross-cultural diversity,” says Rory Johnson of the Boys and Girls Club in Lawrenceville. “If we operate in our strength, if we see diversity, not just in ethnicity, but with our youth and elders, then we are realizing the dream.”

With Johnson having been an integral part of the United Ebony Society’s early ideas of a parade, the youth of the Boys and Girls Club are deeply involved in the parade and community event. The members participate as a day of service and fill many vital roles in the parade, hosting at the Moore Middle School community event, and providing the introduction for the keynote speaker. “We are very proud to honor the past, invest in the present, and reflect on the future of the dream and legacy of Dr. King,” says Johnson.

Furthering the connection to Gwinnett County’s 200th birthday is local resident, Rubye Neal, who has spent nearly two years collecting the stories of a variety of Gwinnett residents for the Story Vault Project (www.Gwinnett200.com). “I can’t even begin to tell you what a blessing it has been to have been able to interview and collect these stories so they are preserved on video,” says Neal. The stories will be just one of the ways Gwinnett’s history of racial segregation can be told.

Adding to the Story Vault history will be the museum located in the former Hooper-Renwick School, which was the segregated school serving Gwinnett’s Black Community. “The whole project is interconnected with the United Ebony Society, the parade, and our scholarship in Robbie Susan Moore’s name,” says Neal. “We have enjoyed tremendous support from our Lawrenceville leadership.” That scholarship, founded by Neal, has been offered to the Boys and Girls Club Youth of the Year recipient, Karissa Jackson. Her involvement in the Club and in the MLK Day parade has been extensive for the past few years. She was also awarded the Beyonce’s BeyGood initiative and Jay Z’s Shawn Carter Foundation scholarship earlier this year.

This year’s parade featured Gwinnett’s first black mayor, Craig Newton of Norcross; Lawrenceville mayor, Judy Johnson; and Georgia House Representatives, Brenda Lopez Romero and Sam Park. “This group served as our Grand Marshalls,” says Rory Johnson. “They are leadership with vision and they make a difference in our community.”

Jackson introduced the keynote speaker at a short ceremony prior to the parade. “I believe the clarion call for diversity is what is necessary in this day and time,” says 2018 keynote speaker, Theresa Bailey. “Seeing children present and how they react to diversity gives me hope for the future; for they are the next soldiers in the battlefield.”

More information at http://www.gwinnettmlkparade.com

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 19

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“Some people come to reminisce with family; some people come to complete a bucket list,” Laura said, reflecting on the many happy occasions she has witnessed in her role. “We get to listen to everyone’s stories and help them have the trip they dreamed of.”

The best part is how easy and simple it is to find the information you need. Expedia CruiseShipCenters encourages you to “Call, click, or come in!” as a means of speaking with one of their consultants to answer all of your vacation questions. You can visit in person, check out their website, or just give them a call – and they promise to always answer.

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Developing 21st Century Life Skills through Yearbook Publishing

By Patty Gabilondo As once stated by Cesare Pavese, “We don’t remember days, we remember moments.”

Few things transport us back to our younger self more than our school yearbooks. I can’t think of a better way to recapture those special childhood moments with both friends and foes than flipping through the pages of a book designed to commemorate and highlight a particular school year. My favorite yearbook is the one that is able to transport me back with references to pop culture, such as the #1 song of the year, favorite movies, the cost of a favorite food, the top-selling album or CD of the year, or a particular clothing or hair style. Remember the Farrah Fawcett flip or tie-dyed T-shirts, which, by the way, are making a comeback now?

In spite of the ever-growing popularity of Instagram, Facebook, Snapchat, and other alternative internet based social media technology, a school yearbook also serves as the perfect opportunity for capturing special moments of the year. It not only preserves memories, but at the same time it builds basic life skills such as collaboration, critical thinking, creative thinking, leadership, ethics, accountability, and adaptability.

According to local yearbook specialist, Lyndsey Bland-Gunn, “Working with the faculty advisors and yearbook staffs at local schools is so important to me and something that helps me connect with my community and neighbors. I was actually yearbook editor myself in high school, went on to work for my college newspaper, and then came right back to yearbooks. It really has been a lifetime of love for yearbooks!” Bland-Gunn has worked for Jostens Yearbooks for over fifteen years and is a proud publishing partner with local schools such as Arcado Elementary, Camp Creek Elementary, Killian Hill Christian School, Knight Elementary, Providence Christian Academy, and Trickum Middle School.

Bland-Gunn says that as a student member of any yearbook staff, “…you’re able to express creativity through either writing, design, or photography; you will work and get along with other people, and learn to meet firm deadlines. Working on a yearbook publications team, students of all ages learn all those things and real-world 21st century skills.”

Writing, communicating, and working with a team are all skills that are fundamental for students of all ages. With the advent of computers, digital cameras, photo editing software, and design software, students at young ages can now become proficient in the literacy of communications technology. It may be hard to imagine your middle-schooler running a business, but in fact those students who sign up to work on the yearbook staff must be goal oriented with the intent to produce a tangible finished product designed to generate a profit. These same students are accountable to their “customers” and peers for making a high-quality product that will be cherished and will serve to highlight and record the activities of the past school year.

“At least once a month I receive an email or a phone call asking me if I can help procure a yearbook of years past,” says Bland-Gunn. “Never have I heard anyone say, ‘I regret buying my yearbook, or buying a yearbook for my child.’”

Continued on page 22

Middle School Golf Continued from page 17

PAGE 20

Witmer emphasized that the program teaches young golfers the fundamentals of golf and through team best ball play provides a positive environment where everyone participates no matter whether just a beginner or an accomplished junior player.

During the first weeks beginning golfers spend more time becoming more proficient at ball striking and understanding golf rules and etiquette. And then they take that knowledge onto the golf course, joining repeat Middle School Golf League players or the more advanced junior golfer playing as team members in the best ball “Lauderdale” format. Players play from forward or junior tees based on ability. The league schedules four weeks of team best ball play for all, including a week where a high school player plays with each team, and then the middle school golfers are introduced to stroke play where they play their own ball for an individual score. The season culminates with a very popular Pitch, Putt and Drive competition, party, and awards presentation.

The league play and clinics are normally held on Sundays at 4 p.m. “Each team has a volunteer team marshal who is responsible for team lineups and supervises the play on the course,” Witmer said. “Parents are welcome to walk or ride carts along the course as spectators, but must remain on the cart paths.”

At the close of registration and before the opening clinics, a parent orientation is scheduled to be held with more detailed information about the season schedule, play and courses, information about golf equipment and clubs, and a Q&A session with League Director Les Witmer and SGAA ‘s Tim Gains.

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

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Health Matters: Bringing the Best Care to Every Community

Perimeter Roofing: Paying off Elementary School Lunch Balances

By Kristen Eleveld

By Emily Haney

In 1966, Dr. William “Butch” Mulherin opened a small clinic off South Lumpkin Street – the very first Athens Orthopedic Clinic (AOC). But this clinic wasn’t just another doctor’s office. The staff sought to provide their local community with specialized orthopedic care that would truly make a difference in the well-being of those who needed help.

Today, the Athens Orthopedic Clinic doesn’t just help their local community. They now serve patients in over 13 locations – Greensboro, Madison, Covington, Loganville, Monroe, Snellville, and, most recently, Hamilton Mill – providing comprehensive orthopedic care in both adults and children.

“We wanted to fill the community’s need for great orthopedic care, without having to make them travel to the Atlanta area,” explained Regional Marketing Director Jocelyn Wykoff.

Their mission is simple, but powerful: Athens Orthopedic Clinic believes that every individual deserves the opportunity to enjoy good health and be physically active. With specialists in most every musculoskeletal discipline, and comprehensive facilities for imaging, surgery, rehabilitation, and performance, AOC strives to provide a superior experience across the entire spectrum of orthopedic care. Beginning in December, AOC extended their urgent care hours to 7:00 p.m. at their Loganville location to give their patients more opportunities to get the care they need.

“It’s been amazing,” Wykoff stated. “AOC has been so well received by everyone in the community.”

And in between providing excellent and specialized treatment, many of AOC’s doctors and specialists are participating in medical research that will allow them to give their patients even better care. It’s no secret that patients come first to all of their providers, and AOC is proud to offer a level of attention that goes above and beyond the standard requirements.

One such physician is Dr. Omar Abdul-Hadi, who has pioneered a new technique for Total Hip and Knee Replacements using the Mako robot that is located at Eastside Medical Center.

While new to the state of Georgia, Dr. Hadi has had over a decade of experience in solving orthopedic challenges for the hundreds of patients who walk through his door.

Continued on page 22

Perimeter Roofing is on a mission to pay off all the elementary school lunch balances in the state of Georgia.

What began as an idea for a good deed challenge has grown into something no one imagined. Ray Little, COO of Perimeter Roofing, had seen someone in Minnesota doing something similar, so he wanted to bring the idea to Georgia. “This is money that we’d rather be using to help kids than put towards other platforms,” commented Little. “I’d rather give money to kids so they can eat than something else.”

After a little research, the rest of Perimeter Roofing decided to join in. “We heard about kids not getting full lunches or saving half of it for dinner later,” said Todd Price, CEO of Perimeter Roofing. “No matter the reason no kid should not be able to eat a full lunch, so we decided to step in.” According to Price, they visit two to four schools each week, depending on scheduling.

They visited Dacula Elementary School first on September 25th, paying off a balance of $773.

Twenty-seven schools later, they paid off Shiloh Elementary School’s lunch balance for $375 on December 19th.

Tom Trippany, principal of Shiloh Elementary School, had heard of what Perimeter Roofing was doing, but he never expected it would happen at his school. “This particular gift is special because we’ve never had somebody pay off all the balances,” said Trippany. “I think it’s going to be great for our students to start from scratch.” Trippany believes that acts like this and from celebrities have caused a chain reaction and inspired people to give back.

They originally began using #schoollunchchallenge as a way to track good deeds. It has since gained attention online and has been used to spread awareness of what the company is doing.

According to Price, people started using the hashtag after paying off balances. More people and other companies have since reached out. “We’ve been contacted by other roofing companies, landscaping companies, pawn shops,” said Price. “Different companies have stepped forward to help out, and it’s been a blessing. We just want to bring awareness to the situation, so more people Continued on page 22

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Perimeter Roofing’s Mission Continued from page 21

Loganville High Baseball Continued from page 8

know exactly what the issue is.”

Businesses like Fraser Roofing, owned by Sara Fraser and her husband, have partnered with them. “We have a heart for serving the community and especially for kids,” said Fraser. “Todd, Ray, and I are all from this area. We get to serve where we grew up. It’s really close to home.”

Fraser’s daughter attends one of the school’s where they are helping to pay off one of the lunch balances.

Perimeter Roofing has started a nonprofit called Perimeter Cares. They hope to raise more awareness for the cause. According to Price, a lot of people just aren’t aware of the lunch balance issue.

If you’d like to donate, you can deposit money in to the Perimeter Cares account at any SunTrust Bank, send them a check, or email connie@perimeterroofing.com for more information. They’re currently waiting for all the paperwork to be able to put a donate button on their website.

Todd Price is the CEO of Perimeter Roofing. More information at perimeterroofing.com

good hitters, Dylan Strickland returns, Jacob Boyd, and Blaine Marchman returning, and some good young hitters that are going to get an opportunity. On the mound – Conner Bruce.”

So this year’s team is building upon the carefully laid foundation that Loganville has, and the new talent is impressive and ready to lead.

When asked about what makes a solid baseball program like the Loganville Red Devils, Segar observed, “Good, solid players that are willing to work. Good youth program in place.”

But a good coaching staff is also important, and Loganville has a dedicated staff with some who have been there for over 15 years. But in addition to the obvious players and coaches one sees on the field, Segar also emphasized the importance of the booster club. And for this program, “each group of parents tries to leave the program a little bit better” each year.

As far as coaching, Segar has been with the Red Devil program for twenty years now, and when asked about the dynamics of coaching at the high school level, he pointed out that it isn’t as simple as some might believe. “I think the toughest thing is you’re dealing with high school age kids,” he said. “You think you know what you’ll get from day to day, but there are a lot of factors that you don’t have in your control.” He also points out, “You have to teach during the day, run a practice, raise money for program, work on your field – miscellaneous items that pop up. You have to wear a lot of different hats. You have to do a little bit of everything.” But it all pays off, as anyone in Loganville can tell you. And as the season gears up, Coach Segar has some words for his players. “We’re going to work hard,” he said. “That’s one thing we can control as a team. And have fun. If we do those things, I think everything else will take care of itself.”

Best wishes to another great season for the Loganville Red Devils. Congratulations on your 2018 State Championship title, and here’s hoping for many more!

More information at www.loganvillebaseball.com .

Bringing the Best Care Continued from page 19 With services ranging from rehabilitation and physical therapy to disease diagnosis and management, it isn’t surprising to learn that the clinic has added so many new locations and staff members to ensure every patient is given state-of-the-art service that is backed by decades of experience and research.

“We hope each community sees how our superior customer care and excellent orthopedic care makes us stand out above the rest,” said Wykoff, who joined the company in 2012. She is also a Certified Medical Assistant and an Orthopedic Technician, so she is no stranger to this unique and engaging line of work.

Indeed, it seems that every member of the Athens Orthopedic Clinic staff is not only good at what they do – they are one of the best in their fields. They have even provided medical services to the University of Georgia sports teams since 1966.

If you are looking for excellent care, updated technology, an amazing staff, knowledgeable doctors, and the best patient experience of your life, then come to the Athens Orthopedic Clinic – for that’s all they know how to do.

More information at athensorthopedicclinic.com.

Yearbook Publishing Continued from page 20 The moments of today become the memories of tomorrow, and that tangible, hard copy yearbook will always be treasured for years to come. If your student is looking for a way to contribute to a creative process and to learn and practice 21st century skills, encourage him or her to consider contributing behind the “pages” of their local school’s yearbook publication staff. It’s a great investment in their future in more ways than one.

Session 1: June 3 – June 20 Session 2: June 24 – July 12 (no camp on July 4) Session 3: July 15 – August 2

PAGE 22

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

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