FEBRUARY 2024: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

FEBRUARY 2024 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town

Up Close with SE Gwinnett COOP, see story on page 5.

GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Lawrenceville Snellville Loganville

PAGE 2

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

TRANSPORT

678-861-8693

Scan Me February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

On the Cover:

Giving Back with the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry

By Kristen Eleveld On March 14, 2020, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a public health state of emergency for all Georgians due to the COVID-19 virus. While many of us had anticipated this possibility, Georgians were now faced with finding ways to accommodate new guidelines and learn how to live with this new normal, however long it may last. Everyone did their best to make these changes, but there is no denying that it was a stressful time for small businesses especially, as they worked to update their business model and workflow. It was a difficult time for many.

Except, of course, for the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry. For them, it was just another Saturday.

That isn’t to say that the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry didn’t face challenges with the pandemic. It’s just that facing challenges is what this ministry does best, regardless of the state of the world.

“We were intensely overwhelmed during the pandemic,” said director Laura Drake. “But God has never let us go without, and He provided for us in that time!”

As serving people in person was no longer a viable option for the cooperative ministry, Laura and her team started creating boxes of food to hand out to people in their cars. That allowed the community they served to receive the help they needed without endangering any of the community or staff.

The cooperative ministry managed to make this change in a matter of hours, updating as many people as they could to let them know that help was still available; it would just look a little different than before.

The pandemic is over, but the hard work of the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry has only continued to grow. In 2023, they received over 13,900 requests for assistance – a number that has increased each

year, and, in recent years, has only been higher during the pandemic. It is a daunting undertaking, but Laura and her team are confident that God will continue to provide the ministry with what it needs to help the community.

One of Laura’s favorite recollections of how God has met the ministry’s needs happened one afternoon in January 2024, when Laura realized she only had thirty-three more boxes of food left to give out to those who were waiting – and the line of cars hoping to receive some basic food supplies was wrapped around the block. Trying to see just how desperate the situation was, Laura began counting cars, and found that there were exactly thirty-three cars in line.

“Running a ministry like this is our mission, but it’s different than a mission trip,” said Laura. “The work here is ongoing – our job is not finished

Continued on page 9

CIVIL • CRIMINAL ESTATE PLANNING & WILLS 3050 Amwiler Road Suite 200-C Atlanta, GA 30360

167 Lee Street Jefferson, GA 30549

404-228-2629 Email: info@wblegal.net February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

PAGE 5

Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

— An EndResultz Media Company 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 2024 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Publisher/Owner Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com

Photography Emil Powella Photography

Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com

Distribution Coordinator Holly Cooks

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com

Cover Story Feature Writer Kristen Eleveld

Feature Writers Victoria R. Crosby Tana Poncsak Traci Sanders

Contributing Writers Jane Bishop Bill Crane Bethany Johnston Tanisha Turner Pam Walker

IN THIS ISSUE 5

On the Cover: Giving Back with the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 8 Legal Talk: The Happy Court 8 Learning Lessons: What Parents Need to Know about STEAM 11 One Man’s Opinion: Salute to Saban 11 Snellville Citizen’s Police Academy: See What it is Like to be a Police Officer 12 Spoil Yourself at The Beauty Experience 13 Optimal…A Word for Your Day 14 Heart Matters: February is American Heart Month 14 Travel Tales: All On Board, A Floating City 14 Digital Detox: Reclaiming Balance in a Constantly Connected World 15 Key Steps to Preparing for a Spring Deck Build 15 Environmental Matters: Advocates Urge for More Protections for the World’s Oceans 17 Plants Forever Incorporated 17 Creative Woodwork by Jon

PAGE 6

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

From the Publisher:

Ryan’s Remarks

By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

Happy February to you! I’m excited as we roll out the February 2024 edition of the publication. So buckle up for a ride through our community’s heart and soul, amplified across printed pages, digital platforms, and the buzzing world of social media.

As you hold this month’s publication in your hands, remember it’s not just a magazine; it’s a connection hub. The printed pages tell stories, share experiences, and showcase dreams – creating a tangible bond that unites us all. But we’re not stopping there. Our digital edition takes the experience to another level, ensuring everyone, everywhere, can tap into the pulse of Our Town.

In social media, we’re not just posting; we’re curating an experience.

Please follow us on our various platforms for doses of community love, family vibes, and positive energy. Or join our private Our Town Community Group on Facebook. It’s not just about reading – it’s about engaging, sharing, and being part of the larger conversation that defines our community.

Whether you’re flipping through the printed magazine at the kitchen table, scrolling through the digital edition on your tablet, or engaging with us on social media from your smartphone, we’re right there with you, fostering strong family bonds in every corner of our community.

Now, let’s talk exposure. We’re not just throwing content out there; we’re strategically connecting with partners across the community through every available medium. Our goal is maximum exposure, from print ads that pop off the page to digital collaborations that light up screens.

We continue to weave a web that captures the attention of every reader, partner, and supporter. Have you heard of the End Resultz Radio Network?

You’ll find many podcasts (including my Marketing Matters show) that are recorded live in the studio each month. Want to have your own show? Let me know, and I will get you the details.

Positivity is contagious, and we continue to spread it like wildfire.

Through print, digital, and social, private groups, e-newsletters, podcasts and TV shows, and more, we’re showcasing the resilience, optimism, and acts of kindness that define our community. It’s not just about consuming content; it’s about becoming part of a movement that uplifts and inspires.

We have a great community, and again, thank you all for your support.

Also, please support all our amazing business partners. They are simply the best. I know each owner, and they all get my highest endorsement. Also, and as always, thanks for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

PAGE 7

Legal Talk: The Happy Court

By Bethany Johnston, Esquire

Many times, when you ask attorneys if they love what they do, you don’t receive the most positive answer. Attorneys carry the heavy burdens for others who have to deal with legal problems. However, there can be Happy Court.

My favorite thing about being an attorney is Stepparent Adoptions.

If there is ever a time for happy tears in court, this is it. Adoptions are the happiest cases brought before a judge. There is someone stepping up to take care of a child that does not biologically belong to them. The judge generally comes down from the bench, pictures are taken, hugs are shared, and the courtroom is closed off just to the family.

You may wonder how to even start this process. It is easier to adopt as a stepparent than one might think.

There is also not an age limit to adopt. The process consists of filing a petition on behalf of the stepparent first. This gives the “absent” parent(s) notice that someone is wanting to adopt and “step into their shoes” as a parent.

Second, there is a background check for the person(s) trying to adopt. This consists of having your fingerprints taken. Even if there are parts of your past that you are not proud of, it is not a roadblock.

We can work around most things as long as the issues are not current.

The process is relatively smooth so long as there are no delays with administrative things, such as the putative father registry check, for example. The hardest part is either getting a biological parent to sign over their rights or

PAGE 8

terminating their rights. Did you know that no meaningful contact, no support, and no efforts in six months shows abandonment? So, Christmas and Birthday cards are not enough for one to show a relationship.

If you or someone you know has a situation that sounds familiar, we would love to go over the process and just talk through their situation. There is no better feeling than having a small part in shaping someone’s life for the better.

Beth Johnston is an Associate with Weinstein & Black, LLC. More information at https://wblegal.net/

Learning Lessons: What Parents Need to Know about STEAM

By Tanisha Turner

You are undoubtedly familiar with the acronym STEAM and its importance in the classroom. This acronym – which stands for science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics – has become a hot topic in the world of education and the business community. The practice of teaching by incorporating these concepts into multidisciplinary lessons has revolutionized education approaches across the country, even for children in preschool.

While young children may not be able to understand multiplication or how computers work, they can develop a strong foundation for future learning by exploring STEAM skills and concepts through play and discussion and then applying those skills through more play.

For young children: • Science encourages investigation and answering questions, often involving experimentation.

• Technology refers to using simple tools like crayons and rulers, as well as more complex ones like microscopes and computers.

• Engineering refers to recognizing problems and testing solutions to them.

• Arts encourage creativity and allow children to illustrate concepts they are learning.

• Mathematics deals with numbers but also patterns, shapes, organizational skills, and much more.

There are many reasons why STEAM subjects should be addressed in early learning settings. A key component of STEAM is process skills, such as making observations, hypothesizing, and critical thinking. These skills help young children grasp math and science concepts early in life while building a base for more complex concepts for years to come.

Research has shown that even very young children are capable of mathematical reasoning and can understand more advanced math skills than previously thought. Young children are also able to ask questions and make predictions about the world around them. In short, children are fully capable of learning foundational STEAM concepts, and parents and teachers should help children develop these skills at an early age.

STEAM learning can also take place outside of the classroom. For example, parents can encourage children to channel their inner engineer through a boat race activity. Have children use a variety of recyclables – cork, foil, tape, craft sticks, straw, an old swim noodle, and paper for a sail – to build a boat that can sail across the bathtub, a pan of water, or a puddle. After creating the boat, have children blow “wind” toward the boat to see how fast their creation travels. Parents and children can host races between multiple boats and discuss which boat is faster and why.

Young children grasp concepts through exploration and trial and error, so they should learn STEAM concepts at their own pace and in ways that are natural to them. To ensure that children are learning at their own pace, Primrose offers a balance of play with guidance from teachers, and repeats STEAM lessons so children can master skills as they are ready.

Tanisha Turner is the Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway.

More information atwww.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com or call 770-5130066.

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

SE Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry Cont’ d from pg 5 as long as people need us.”

Of course, as always, the ministry team has been in the process of making changes to better serve the community since they were able to come back to serving people in person in the fall of 2021. Though the original model of people coming inside the doors of the co-op is once again available, Laura and her team realized that many people still benefitted from being able to pick up food from their cars. Now the ministry offers both options to allow people to choose the method that suits them best.

Laura attributes the co-op’s serving ability to God alone. She also says that God has used many people and churches in the community to bring the resources so desperately needed to serve every person who comes to the door.

In the last few years, the co-op has seen a lot of refugee families asking for aid, in addition to local families who are trying to get back to work and need some assistance to bridge the gap. Whatever the need, the Southeast

February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry will help – but they need our help, too.

If you head to the co-op’s Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/ groups/141267961327), you will find a list of needs posted regularly. While the ministry team knows they will always have what they need, they also know that it is possible due to God moving in the hearts of those willing to give. And that’s where we all come in. If you can meet even one need that the co-op shares, it will make a difference for a lifetime. Whether you donate ten pounds of food or a single toothbrush, the help you give adds up and is poured back into the community.

“It’s an honor to come alongside and support our community members,” said Laura. “It’s always a journey. You never know who is coming through the door each day; but whoever it is, we say ‘Come on in!’”

If you want to learn more about how you can help or how to receive help from the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry, just check out their website or Facebook page. You will find a team waiting for you that loves their community, wants to help people, and, as Laura says, is unapologetically all about Jesus.

More information at https://segwinnettcoop.org/

PAGE 9

Locally owned + trusted!

OWNER, NATE MCMICHAEL

Interior & Exterior Painting Cabinet Painting Carpentry Repairs Gutter & Guard Installation

Brick & Concrete Coatings Commercial Painting Callus us today today for freeestimate! estimate!

Call foryour a free

INSTALLATION | GUARDS | CLEANING | REPAIRS

Over 20 colors available to choose from!

PAGE 10

AMS

Financial We Finance!

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

One Man’s Opinion: Salute to Saban

By Bill Crane

Seeking a brief respite from this bitter cold snap and the flaming rhetoric of the national political scene, I offer a warm and genuine salute to a man of intelligence, ability, and leadership – even though he leads a team I do not support, victories which I almost universally oppose.

I speak, of course, of one of the most successful coaches in the history of college football, the recently retired Coach Nick Saban of the University of Alabama. I am a dyed in the wool, Red & Black, Georgia Bulldog. I can’t see the color “Crimson” without pointing out it is closer to maroon, or the Alabama stylized A-logo without pointing out that’s our Atlanta Braves “A,” with a mullet.

Coach Saban had the additional challenge while piling up earlier winning streaks at Michigan State and LSU, of being unfavorably compared to Alabama’s legendary Coach Paul “Bear” Bryant. But Saban now moves from coach to fan and booster, with quite a few more wins than the Bear, and certainly more championship and bowl titles.

And unlike many other UGA and SEC rivals, I don’t envy, dislike, or hold grudges against Coach Saban. Coach Saban is a gentleman compared to former South Carolina and University of Florida Coach Steve Spurrier. Saban builds programs, players, and coaching staff, and even when they move on and become his competitors, he still wishes them well and even appreciates their wins and success.

It speaks volumes that within days of Saban announcing his retirement plans and losing a close contest for another CFP Championship, nearly one dozen of his standout players announced plans to move into the player portal for trade and relocation prior to any announcement about Saban’s potential successor.

Snellville Citizen’s Police Academy: See What it is Like to be a Police Officer

By Tana Poncsak

Have you ever seen a police officer and wondered what being in law enforcement is like? Many local municipalities have a program that can help answer that question, and the Snellville Citizen’s Police Academy is one of them.

Sergeant Scott Smith of the Snellville Police Department is head of training and community affairs and the coordinator of Snellville’s Citizen’s Police Academy, which began its 34th session last September.

The program started almost twenty years ago to bridge the gap and foster relationships between law enforcement and community members by giving residents a glimpse into what Snellville police officers do daily.

Sergeant Smith says the premise of the program is to put the attendees in similar scenarios that police officers might encounter on any given day so residents can get a better understanding of the processes, the decisions, and the possible consequences an officer may face on a case-by-case basis.

A big part of the program includes training tools such as a weapon simulator and enactments.

“It’s very hands on,” Sergeant Smith says. “We’ll tell a participant that they’re responding to a person down, and they’ll have to enter an empty building with role players to work their way through a given scenario and see if they can come up with a conclusion.”

February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

I consider UGA’s three “arch-rivals” to be Florida, Clemson, and Auburn, with Auburn and Georgia enjoying the longest college football rivalry in the SEC and only surpassed in longevity by Harvard v. Yale. But having my firstborn child, two sisters, one niece, and Olivia’s mother among my cadre of close Auburn alumni friends, I always solidly root for my team. Still, I can abide the occasional loss, once or say twice a decade, to those Tigers/ Plainsman, uttering their victorious cry of “War Eagle.”

And for some reason, I can’t bring myself to hold any ill will towards that charming Trade School on North Avenue in Midtown Atlanta either. That Yellow Jacket mascot, Buzz, is a cute little fellow.

All across Tuscaloosa, there are monuments to Coach Saban and the Crimson Tide in every direction. Nick Saban also has some sort of mesmerizing effect on SEC and bowl game officials, as in the most recent SEC championship. While referees had at LEAST one thumb on the scale, Saban masterfully managed the game clock, and his players, I can say without fear of contradiction, out-played our Dawgs.

During the 2021 SEC Championship, a favored Georgia would lose 41-24 and be Rolled by the Crimson Tide. I had decent seats in the Bama fans section, surrounded by Tide fans expecting the worst, but as that game delivered a different result, they didn’t rub my nose in their rising Tide. The weather was cold, rainy, and awful outside...and that loss was as painful as any of the many Steve Spurrier’s Florida beatdowns the Dawgs once took down in Jacksonville. But I didn’t grit my teeth and have no recollection of animosity towards Coach Saban. Again...we were outplayed.

It also helps that UGA Coach Kirby Smart, potentially the successor to that winning-est Coach title, is a protege and mentee of Nick Saban, along with Lane Kiffin, Jimbo Fisher, and many others. Saban taught his coaches how to build player respect and discipline and, of course, how to win. And they did not leave those skills behind when they left Tuscaloosa.

And I also greatly admire Coach Saban for going OUT on his own terms and still near the top of his game. Saban is not done with life, nor with college football. He is just retiring from coaching, with what appears to be plenty of money and time to enjoy life, as well as his wife, children, and grandchildren. At 72, Saban is still fit and vibrant and has a future in other fields, should he be interested, including sports commentary, public speaking, and possibly even book writing...or perhaps life coaching.

Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com If the attendee can’t reach the conclusion, the officers, who volunteer their time to teach, can help talk them through it.

The program also allows attendees to interact with many officers on the police force and to build personal relationships between the officers and the residents, something that Sergeant Smith says helps residents put a face with a name.

The immediate benefits of the program can be seen. Those who go through the Snellville Citizen’s Police Academy tend to show respect and support for the people in law enforcement in tangible ways, such as expressing kind words and providing the officers with a cool drink of water on a hot day during their shifts.

“We’re just people doing a job,” Sergeant Smith says. “It’s the relationships we are fostering with those two hours every week. And to see the return of those who come back to show their support and volunteer, it’s nice to know we’ve got their respect and support as well.”

The Snellville Citizen’s Police Academy is a nine-week session that meets one evening per week for two hours.

During that time, attendees learn about public safety, firearms safety, domestic violence, traffic stops, and more. The sessions are taught by the same police officers who patrol the streets and neighborhoods while working to keep residents safe. The program is free and is for ages 18 and older.

Once attendees complete the program, the support for law enforcement doesn’t have to stop there. For those who would like to continue to support the Snellville Police Department after completing the program, Snellville has a Citizen’s Police Academy Alumni Association, which continues to support law enforcement through interaction and volunteer opportunities

Continued on page 17

PAGE 11

Spoil Yourself at The Beauty Experience

By Tana Poncsak

Everyone deserves to be spoiled every now and then. Just ask Rhonda Knight and Amber Jones, the mother-daughter duo and owners of The Beauty Experience, boutique, salon, spa, beauty bar, and events, located on Hurricane Shoals Road in Lawrenceville. It’s all about taking time to relax and focus on YOU. “It basically means come on out and forget about all your worries and everything that’s going on in life right now,” Amber says. “Just focus on yourself.”

Rhonda says The Beauty Experience reflects

PAGE 12

the elegant and upscale taste that the two share in a one-stop shop offering a number of services, a boutique, and life coaching and mental health sessions. You can also book affordable, elegant space for your upcoming events!

Starting out with events such as creating popup shops and more, it was only a matter of time when the two decided to open up a permanent location to feature their concept. They celebrated their first year in September of 2023.

“It’s been a really great experience working with Amber,” Rhonda says. “She’s amazing.”

And it helps that the two are on the same page when it comes to the business, but they say they still bring unique and different perspectives.

Rhonda says that Amber is great at social media, while she handles some of the other details. “We

Continued on page 13

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

The Beauty Experience Continued from page 12

Optimal…A Word for Your Day

have our own little different things we specialize in doing,” Rhonda says.

“The dynamic that makes it work with us is that we’re both very creative people and we share the same vision, so it’s fun.”

Amber describes their business as family oriented with great energy.

“Most people come in and they don’t want to go home,” she says.

Clients can pick from different beauty packages, and it’s not just for the ladies. The Beauty Experience offers packages for men as well. Clients are offered wine and cheese.

“We’re all about pampering and making people feel special,” Rhonda says.

And before they leave, clients have the opportunity to shop in the boutique.

Both Amber and Rhonda love hearing clients say things like, “I feel so much peace when I come here.” Rhonda says this is the part that makes them both feel good, and they credit the staff for making clients feel welcome.

“We’re blessed to have our experts working with us, and we’re thankful for each of them,” she says.

While much of a visit to The Beauty Experience is about looking your best and feeling your best, it’s also about your beauty within. Rhonda is also a Certified Peer Specialist for mental health in Georgia, and she holds individual and group sessions using art, drama, music, dance, and more to help people who are dealing with a mental health setback by providing a safe environment where clients can talk about whatever they may be dealing with. “You can’t be physically healthy without being mentally healthy,” she says. “And our goal is to get people where they need to be.”

And they are active in giving back to their community in tangible ways through a number of initiatives such as an annual Winter Wonderland Toy Drive to support those in need during the holidays, and their Queen of the Month where they choose someone who has had a struggle or need and they treat that person to the whole beauty experience, including a shopping credit in the boutique.

“We bless that person. and we have a red-carpet photoshoot, only it’s a pink carpet because our place is pink and black and gold and sparkly,” Rhonda says. “People just need to know that someone cares.”

More information at beautyexperience.beauty

Most desirable or satisfactory is how the online Meriam Webster dictionary defines optimal. Optimal is related to me being in the best state to be the most effective, and my energy level directly impacts my optimal space. Knowing that fact, I strive to intentionally “feed” my energy in all aspects. When I am in my optimal energy space, I am more effective, more influential, and show up as my best self, and I accomplish more in less time.

Ask yourself these questions: “When am I at my best or most desirable? How does my energy level impact my optimal space?” Often, we can be at a low energy point and then participate in certain activities that return us to our optimal energy space (i.e., working out, going for a jog, etc.). The key is understanding who we are, how we operate, and how we show up. Through this, we discover how to feed and nurture our optimal, most favorable/desirable energy.

On the other side, being aware of our optimal energy space also helps us understand what drains our energy. We are not perfect, we are human, and we are going to experience moments of burnout or energy exhaustion. Our human energy batteries do not last forever! Living life without structure, boundaries, defined priorities, etc. depletes our energy vs. powering our energy. We can have it all, but simply not at the same time!

As you reflect on your optimal space, focus on understanding your energy by practicing an optimal energy audit. To kickstart your audit, begin with these questions: “What is draining my energy unnecessarily? What is powering my energy? What is blocking my energy? What is my challenge for creat-

February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

By Jane Bishop

Continued on page 17

PAGE 13

Heart Matters: February is American Heart Month

By Tana Poncsak

Did you know that in the U.S., someone has a heart attack every 40 seconds? In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 805,000 people in the U.S. have a heart attack each year, and of those, 605,000 are first-time heart attacks. February is heart month to bring awareness to heart health and what you can do to stay healthy and hopefully not become another statistic.

First, there’s a difference between cardiac arrest and a heart attack. The American Heart Association differentiates the two, indicating that a heart attack occurs when blood flow is blocked from the heart. Cardiac arrest is when the heart malfunctions and an irregular heartbeat can occur.

If you suspect someone is having a heart attack or cardiac arrest, the American Heart Association says to call 911 or your local emergency

Travel Tales: All On Board, A Floating City

By Pam Walker

Have you heard the latest cruise news? Miami’s largest cruise ship has arrived. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas was just delivered after leaving its construction port in Finland. This ship weighs about 250,800 gross tons (which is huge) and is over 1,000 feet long.

For a comparison, it is about four football fields in length. There is a debate about the exact number of people it carries, with some saying 10,000 (7,000 passengers and the rest crew), but the official statement

by Royal Caribbean is 2,805 staterooms carrying 5,600 passengers and 2,350 crew members. There are twenty passenger decks. Ten thousand or 7,950 passengers is the size of a small city in the United States!

Like a city as well, there are numerous things to do. The ship’s centerpiece is the impressive Aqua Dome with its Aqua Theatre. Shows will feature aerialists, acrobatics, high dives, and the tallest waterfall at sea

Digital Detox: Reclaiming Balance in a Constantly Connected World

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

In today’s hyperconnected world, where smartphones, tablets, and laptops are integral to our daily lives, the concept of a digital detox has gained significant importance. A digital detox is when individuals intentionally disconnect from their digital devices and the online world. Here are five main points explaining the importance of incorporating digital detoxes into our lives: 1. Mental Health and Well-Being: Incessant screen time and constant connectivity can affect mental health. Excessive social media use, endless scrolling, and the pressures of responding to notifications can lead to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy.

Therefore, taking a break from such digital devices is vital so we can recharge mentally, reduce stress, and improve our overall emotional well-being.

2. Enhanced Productivity: Paradoxically, spending too much time online can lead to decreased productivity. Constant interruptions from emails, social media, and notifications can hinder our ability to focus and complete tasks efficiently. A digital detox provides a space for uninterrupted

PAGE 14

number. In the case of cardiac arrest, administering Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) or using an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), now available in many public venues, can be a lifesaving measure.

Heart disease doesn’t just affect older adults. The CDC reports that one in five adults who died of cardiovascular disease in 2019 were under the age of 65. It’s important to know your risks. The CDC cites high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and smoking can all contribute to cardiovascular disease. Other factors such as obesity and diabetes can contribute as well.

In addition, the CDC reports that choosing a healthy lifestyle by eating healthy foods, regular physical activity, not smoking, staying on top of conditions such as high blood pressure, and seeing your physician for regular screenings are all measures you can take to help lower your risk for heart disease.

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute has a number of resources and events available throughout the month of February to educate and bring awareness to the importance of heart health. So, learn more about heart health and keep your ticker happy.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for entertainment and informational purposes only and is not intended for medical advice. For medical advice, please seek the advice of a licensed medical practitioner. (fifty-five feet tall)! The Dome has over 600 glass panels looking up to the sky and reflecting on the beautiful park below it. Another open-air garden is called Central Park, lined with shops and restaurants. There is even a sushi bar and several nightclubs.

Aside from all the restaurants, there are seven pools, six waterslides, numerous spas and whirlpools, showrooms, and much more. Chill Island is a three-story pool area complete with a swim-up bar.

For the kids, Thrill Island is a waterpark on the top deck with thrills for all. Here is a list of the thrill rides available at sea: • Frightening Bolt: The tallest drop slide at sea (Min. Height Requirements: 55” tall | Max Weight Requirements: 265 lbs.)

• Pressure Drop: The first open freefall slide at sea (Min Height: 55” tall | Max Weight: 265 lbs.)

• Storm-Chasers (2): The longest mat racing slides at sea (Min Height: 42” tall | Max Weight: 265 lbs.)

• Hurricane Hunter: The first family raft slide at sea (Min Height: 48” tall with parents and 55” tall without parents | Max Weight: 595 lbs.)

• Storm Surge: The first suspended family raft slide at sea (Min Height: 48” tall with parents and 55” tall without parents | Max Weight: 595 lbs.)

So, what is not to like on this behemoth of a ship? If you want to go, it is sailing now to the Eastern and Western Caribbean. It should be quite an experience!

Pam Walker, owner of Walker Adventures, is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor.

More information at pam@walkeradventures.com work or leisure activities, helping us become more productive and creative.

3. Reconnecting with Reality: The digital world often distracts us from the present moment. By detaching from screens and distractions, we can fully engage with the physical world around us. This reconnection can lead to richer experiences, improved relationships with loved ones, and a greater appreciation for nature, art, and other real-life pleasures.

4. Better Sleep Patterns: Excessive screen time, especially before bedtime, disrupts our sleep patterns.

The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of melatonin, a hormone crucial for regulating sleep. A digital detox in the evening can improve sleep quality, mood, and daytime alertness.

5. Preserving Personal Relationships: Our constant digital presence can strain personal relationships. Engaging with screens during social gatherings or family dinners can make loved ones feel ignored and undervalued. A digital detox encourages face-toface interactions, helping to rebuild and strengthen personal connections.

A digital detox works even when it is for a short amount of time. Taking such a digital break is not about rejecting technology, but about achieving a healthier and more balanced relationship with it. So, whether it’s a weekend getaway without screens, a daily walk without headphones, or designated tech-free hours, incorporating digital detoxes into our routines is a small step that can significantly improve our overall well-being.

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

Key Steps to Preparing for a Spring Deck Build

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

As temperatures are cold, it might seem premature to think about springtime outdoor projects. But when planning a spring deck build, now is the perfect time to start. The winter months provide an ideal window of opportunity to lay the groundwork for a successful and stress-free spring deck construction project. Here are some critical steps and considerations to ensure your new deck will be ready to enjoy when the flowers bloom.

1. Define your vision Every successful deck project begins with a clear vision. Spend some time this winter envisioning your ideal deck. Consider its purpose. Will it be a space for outdoor dining, relaxation, or entertainment? Think about the deck’s size, shape, and design elements.

Gather inspiration from home improvement magazines, social media platforms, and websites like Decks.com to help refine your vision. You can also find many ready-made deck plans online that offer ideas and inspiration.

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

Environmental Matters: Advocates Urge for More Protections for the World’s Oceans

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

A new report has found that expanded industrial fishing, ocean warming, acidification, and pollution severely impact the health of the oceans and, in turn, the planet’s health. Oceans regulate our climate and make life possible for humanity on this planet.

The Greenpeace International report, 30x30: From Global Ocean Treaty to Protection at Sea, presents a new global analysis of the threats facing oceans and argues for urgent intervention, setting out a political roadmap to meet the United Nations’ goal of protecting 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030 under the new UN Ocean Treaty.

The report’s launch is just beginning a year-long campaign where Greenpeace ships will conduct research worldwide. This research will inform a science-based approach to the call on leaders to ratify the Treaty and protect the world’s oceans. The Treaty, which advocates say is one of the most important international conservation agreements in history, is the first to focus on conserving marine life on the high seas.

“This report shows that the threats to marine life pervade nearly every corner of the world’s oceans and makes it clear that immediate action is needed to stem the rising tide of destruction,” says Arlo Hemphill, Greenpeace USA’s senior ocean campaigner.

Here are some of the report’s key findings: • Ocean temperature levels broke records in 2023. Heating acidification and deoxygenation are changing the oceans’ chemistry. This has wide-reaching impacts on ocean ecosystems and biodiversity and disrupts

February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

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

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

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

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

• Using data from Global Fishing Watch, Greenpeace International investigators estimated that high-seas fishing hours in areas scientists have recommended for protection increased by a staggering 22.5% between 2018 and 2022. What’s more, much of the most common fishing gear is destructive, hooking anything in its path and putting many additional species at risk.

• Pollution, including plastics, continues to worsen. This is having devastating impacts on marine life and ecosystems. Shipping leads to chronic oil and noise pollution on the high seas, and there is always a risk of accidents and spills.

• Emerging risks threaten ocean health.

For example, deep-sea mining, an industry still in the experimental phase, is particularly harmful to critical and fragile deep-sea ecosystems. While many governments support a global ban or a moratorium on deep-sea mining, many more still need to take action to stop the launch of this destructive industry.

• Fully or highly protected ocean sanctuaries, which provide a safe haven for marine life to recover and thrive, are a proven solution to the ocean crisis. Currently, less than 1% of the high seas are adequately protected. Three sites are presented as case studies for protection under the Global Ocean Treaty: the Sargasso Sea, Emperor Seamounts, and South Tasman Sea/Lord Howe Rise, all of which are critically important in terms of biodiversity and their vulnerability to the impacts of climate change and industrial fishing.

“Every year of delay, stacking pressures on the oceans grow,” says Hemphill. “Consequences worsen for marine ecosystems and the billions of people who rely on healthy oceans for their food, livelihoods, and a livable planet. By signing, ratifying, and implementing the Ocean Treaty, global leaders can usher in a new era of ocean health.”

More information at greenpeace.org/international/publication (StatePoint)

PAGE 15

PAGE 16

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

Plants Forever Incorporated

By Victoria R. Crosby

PFI stands for Plants Forever Incorporated. It’s a local business started by Bobbie Pike, a woman whose family has a love of flowers and plants. Her brother, Pete Pike, is the owner of Pike’s nursery, so it was a natural progression after working with him for many years that Bobbie began her own company in 1982, with “me, myself, and I,” as she put it.

Her successful business grew, and in 2001 her daughter, Kim Oberheu, returned to Atlanta after living in Los Angeles and Manhattan. Kim had worked on the Academy Awards ceremonies for five years and for Walt Disney Studios.

I recently paid a delightful visit to the PFI office in Stone Mountain and met Kim. Her office had quite a few orchids and a wonderful “painting” made of moss. As president of my garden club, I had the pleasure to learn

Creative Woodwork by Jon

By Victoria R. Crosby

Dr. Jon Saulson loves to work in wood and give his creations away, not only during holidays, but all year round.

A retired teacher, school administrator, and college professor, Jon grew up in Miami Beach, Florida and has lived in several areas of DeKalb and Gwinnett counties for more than thirty years.

His introduction to working in wood came from his father. Jon said, “I would watch my dad fixing things, and I was always fascinated with tools, so I took a shop class in high school and loved it.”

Sometimes you are so good at your job that they can’t let you go! Jon Saulson retired three times from teaching public schools in Stone Mountain, Lilburn, and Snellville.

His first teaching job was of “regular” students, but he found teaching special education and autistic students much more rewarding. He found that special ed students had trouble connecting to the real world, and with people.

Jon also taught at Oglethorpe University in the Master of Arts Program and was Director of the Office for Student Disabilities.

At Mercer University in Atlanta while training teachers for their masters’ degree, he would tell them these words of wisdom that he had been told by a former teacher of his: “Whether you teach ten or thirty-five students, you will never know how much of an impact you have on them.”

“Teaching is a giving profession,” Jon explained, “giving you start as a plum and end up as prune. You have to take care of yourself, or you can’t take care of your students.”

While teaching at a Psycho Ed Center, Jon found that his students would be stressed and exhausted mentally by lunchtime. He thought that if he could get them to work with their hands, he would be able to get through to them on other subjects. So, with permission from the administration, he began to have the students work in wood. Through this activity, the students could learn vocabulary, cooperation, communication, self-control, patience, and following directions.

Jon would also make toys, games, and puzzles, and give them away. But

Snellville Citizen’s Police Academy Cont’ d from pg 11 where alumni members can use what they learned from the program and contribute to the community. The association holds regular meetings, and there’s a nominal membership fee.

More information at https://www.snellville.org/police-department or their Facebook page.

February 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

more about her business. Kim showed me the vast storeroom at the rear of her office that houses all the Christmas and holiday decorations that they use for some of their clients, including huge Christmas trees, a great many lights, and very tall soldiers. Major clients have the space to store their own décor, but PFI sets them up at the necessary time.

PFI has a process in which they choose the right plants for clients’ lobbies and showrooms. The first step is to have a consultation and evaluation of the clients’ desires so that the appropriate sustainable design can be chosen. The next step is to bring together all the elements that visibly show the brand, which can range from classical to modern or a combination of both. Finally, by anticipating the needs of the client, the PFI team creates an unparalleled experience by offering hands-on service with a personal touch.

With a staff of twelve people, they create a perfect design for their clients.

They offer full scale interior horticultural design, boutique exterior horticultural design, and full-scale interior and exterior holiday design. They also offer care for all these designs.

PFI has celebrity fans in the music and art industry. Those who love music and art are especially connected to nature and the beauty of plants and flowers. Since most people spend the majority of their lives indoors, it is vital for both mental and physical health to be in green space. Plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, which is vital to breathing. Studies have shown that plants in an indoor space can improve stress levels, improve productivity, and increase job satisfaction in the workplace.

More information at www.pfibranditgrowit.com https://www.facebook. comPfibranditgrowit friends would tell him he should be selling his work, and for a while he did, but it wasn’t as rewarding and eventually it became more like a job. So, he gave away some items.

“If I was visiting someone,” Jon said, “I would make something to take. I read about some people in an apartment complex who had a fire, so I made them seventy-five toys. Then I started looking for organizations who needed toys, puzzles, unique birdhouses. There are now ten places that I make items for. I make one or two things a day, then I box them up and deliver them. That gives me joy.”

Jon has a workshop in the basement of his house in Snellville. He makes children’s toys such as trucks, cars, puzzles, and what he calls “manimals” – half person, half animal. He said he goes through phases making many items such as bird houses, then tires of making those and creates something new. “Once you put the puzzle together it’s done,” he explained.

“So, I created stacking puzzles, which can be stacked twenty different ways and balance them.”

He works in his workshop four or five days a week and likes to finish the object he is working on in a day or two. “Occasionally I make something unique like a rocking polar bear and rocking unicorn, and a threein-one piece of furniture for infants,” Jon said. “It’s a highchair with a horse head, rocking horse, children’s chair and desk recreated from a picture I saw.”

Over the past few years Jon has donated his toys and puzzles to many schools, churches, temples, businesses, and hospitals. He made a gift for his neurosurgeon of an unusual artwork of vertebrae. Each bone of the spine is a little person in a position, with the top one reaching out as though recovering from a bad back. Anyone who has had back problems or spine surgery can relate to that!

If you know of a charity or child in need that would appreciate a toy or puzzle, contact Jon at yesiwoodbyjon@aol.com.

Optimal Continued from page 13 ing boundaries? What is at stake when I am not in my optimal energy space?

What can I cull, minimize, or eliminate?” While there are circumstances we cannot control, we can control our response and minimize the energy drain.

When you are in your optimal energy space, it is your power zone. It is a place of great accomplishment and influence on those around you. Give yourself permission to consistently practice removing what drains your energy and embrace what powers your energy. You will consistently function at your most desirable and satisfactory level! And remember, “strive for consistent excellence not perfection.” (Janeism) More information at www.janebishoplive.com

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049