JANUARY 2024: (BLUE) Our Town Gwinnett Monthly Magazine for Gwinnett/NE Dekalb

JANUARY 2024 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town

Up Close with Vecoma at Yellow River, see story on page 5.

GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

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January 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

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On the Cover:

Catch up on Wedding Trends with Vecoma at the Yellow River

By Kristen Eleveld Gwinnett County’s own Vecoma at the Yellow River has enjoyed many years earning its reputation as a premier wedding venue, with countless awards and accolades stacking up high as each year passes. While the success of this incredible venue can be attributed to the combination of many factors, including the top-notch team at its helm, one way this venue stands out above the rest is in its commitment to staying on top of popular wedding trends, and advising its clients accordingly.

Co-owner Caroline Tucker works with her team to take note of growing wedding trends and finds new ways to incorporate them into their clients’ weddings. Not only does this add a fun twist on some favorite traditions, but it gives every ceremony that unique feel that each couple brings to the table.

“We’re seeing a lot of wedding parties where brides have ‘men of honor’ and grooms have groomswomen,” said Caroline. “We have also seen a lot of ‘flower dudes’ instead of flower girls!”

Some of these trends, like the adorable flower dudes, must be seen to be fully appreciated. Luckily, Vecoma has some fabulous footage on their Instagram and TikTok for everyone to enjoy – and to take note of for their own future ceremony. Just look for the @vecomaweddings account to follow!

Another fun trend that Caroline and her team have seen is all about standing out from a crowd – a concept that Vecoma at the Yellow River has certainly mastered. Bridesmaids will wear different colors for their dresses, for instance, allowing each bridesmaid to wear the color that best suits her as well as adding a fun twist to the overall color scheme. Specialty drinks that are unique to the couple have also become a new tradition, which makes toasting the newlyweds even more exciting. Drinks like the Apple Cider Margarita, made from silver tequila, triple sec, and cinnamon sugar rum, make up the delicious new combos that clients of Vecoma have gotten to try. And, of course, the small details matter – your drink might be garnished with an apple

January 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

slice or you may taste a hint of pineapple juice as you sip.

Some traditions don’t change, and Caroline and the team at Vecoma are on board with that, too! Photo booths, which have long been synonymous with weddings, have made a resurgence at many ceremonies in the last few years.

Not only is a photo booth a lot of fun, it guarantees you and your guests will have some memories to share for years to come.

As always, the team at Vecoma at the Yellow River wants to make these trends fit your taste – and, of course, your budget. Fortunately, Caroline and her team have become experts at helping you discover a vision that is unique to you and your partner without blowing past your bottom line.

But you don’t have to take our word for it. Vecoma is active on their website and their social media, displaying photos of recent weddings, decorating ideas, and planning tips, which will provide you plenty of inspiration as you work to plan your own ceremony. Every wedding is a unique, tailored experience at Vecoma at the Yellow River, so the only thing stopping you is your own imagination. Let your ideas run wild and give Vecoma at the Yellow River a call to find out how they can turn your plans into that perfect ceremony.

While Vecoma is known for its beautiful location and knowledgeable staff that makes it ideal for weddings, the venue runs the gamut when it comes to Continued on page 8

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Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

— An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com

Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/NE DeKalb area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.

Entire contents copyright 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

Cover 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 Pam Walker

IN THIS ISSUE

5 On the Cover: Catch up on Wedding Trends with Vecoma at the Yellow River 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 8 Community Spotlight: Run the Reagan® 2024 8 The Miss Gwinnett County Pageant 9 Happy 2024: New Goals in a New Year 10 Wellness Matters: Tips for a New You in 2024 11 Making a Difference: Rainbow Village 11 Present…A Word for Your Day 12 Beyond the Ribbon Provides for Support through Cancer Treatment and Beyond 13 One on One: Snellville Historical Society 14 Are You a Medicare Rookie? Pros Can Help You Find the Right Plan 14 Three Daily Habits That Increase Your Healthspan 15 One Man’s Opinion: In Celebration of Non-Traditional Families 15 Travel Tales: Dude Ranch Heaven

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From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks

By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

Goodbye, 2023. Welcome, 2024! It seems that we were saying good riddance to 2020 not so long ago. Man, time flies. I am excited for 2024 – a year of new hopes, dreams, healing, love, fellowship, friends, family, and goals – and I am thankful for everything possible with a new year.

I am also thankful to be alive and to be writing this column. I am grateful for family and friends. I am so thankful for our fantastic business and community partners and our two magazines and our other media outlets. I am thankful for our super team and for so many more things. You see, my friends, we all have much to be thankful for. As someone recently reminded me, as long as we are “on this side of the dirt,” there is time to be a blessing and make a difference in this world.

However, I am ready for the beginnings of a new year. The last few years have been draining, unpredictable, and in a state of constant change. This column is written to inspire us to make 2024 an incredible year in the Our Town community. My question to you is simple: How badly do you want to grow as a person this year?

If you want something bad enough, you will find a way to achieve it. You will desire to solve things and make life better for everyone. In contrast, if you do not want something bad enough, you will find an excuse and complain about everything happening to you and around you. It is the way human beings are wired.

So, you see, we have two choices. The first is to stand around and complain and be frustrated about how things are. The second is to do anything in our power to develop a plan and/or find a way to improve things. In this new year, I challenge you to Keep Pushing Forward (KPF). KPF is what I tell all the graduate marketing and leadership students I teach. It is a mindset of finding a way to make things happen. It is the ability to believe in yourself, push harder, and dig deeper in every aspect of your life.

We all can go deeper and find a way. Do not be afraid to fail. As our little green friend Yoda says in Star Wars, “The greatest teacher...failure is.” Also, do not be scared to be your authentic and transparent self. Everyone desires to have genuine people around them. And if not, trust me – people will talk about you anyway, so why not give them a reason to talk?

So, here is a challenge for 2024. Plan your work and work your plan so you can grow – in all parts of your life – in a deliberate, purposeful, and intentional manner. Control what you can control and leave the rest to the good Lord. This

Continued on page 10

January 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

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Community Spotlight: Run the Reagan® 2024

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

The annual Run the Reagan® race is quickly approaching, and you are invited to “Put Your Heart Into It” and join them on February 10th, 2024.

Founded in 1994 as Gwinnett’s Premier Road Race, Run the Reagan® has become an annual event for runners and families to enjoy a day of fun, fitness, and community engagement.

The race features a Half Marathon, 10K, 5K and 1-mile Fun Run. All registered participants receive a race number, and t-shirt. Heart-shaped medals are awarded to all Half Marathon Finishers and to each of the top three runners, by age category, in the 10K and 5K timed races. In addition to the races, there is also a Family Fun Center, featuring vendors, music, games, and more!

Proceeds from the event go directly to support three great local charities: the Brookwood Schools Foundation, the South Gwinnett Cluster Foundation, and the Lilburn Cooperative Ministry. Each of these organizations work to provide educational and wellness resources within the local community. They also support dozens of our local schools by sharing some of the race revenue generated from designated race registrations. When registering, please consider creating or joining an existing team to earn money directly for a school or charity.

Not a runner? There are many opportunities to participate as volunteers. It truly takes a community to make this event a success, and they are always in need of folks who love to help. All volunteers will receive a t-shirt as a thank you!

More information at www.runthereagan.net or https://runsignup.com/ Race/GA/Snellville/RuntheReagan2024.

Vecoma at the Yellow River Continued from page 5 celebrations or events. Corporate meetings, milestone birthdays – if you have a reason to celebrate, Vecoma can help. Last year they worked with a client to plan a 100th birthday celebration, with another 100th birthday celebration on the books for a client in 2024. So even if you don’t need to plan a wedding, Vecoma can still make your celebration one to remember. Just head to their website or give them a call at (770) 972-6540 to ask how they can turn your event into a memory that will last a lifetime.

More information at vecoma1.com, Instagram and TikTok: @vecomaweddings

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The Miss Gwinnett County Pageant

By Traci Sanders

The Miss Gwinnett County Pageant recently held its 45th pageant at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds – a proud sponsor of the event – and awarded scholarships ranging from $500 to $1,500 to the winners. Adesuwa Ehioghae was named Miss Gwinnett County, Landry Wolf won the title of Miss Gwinnett County’s Teen, Sarah Stallings was crowned Miss Historic Gwinnett, and Delaney Lanham was named Miss Historic Gwinnett’s Teen.

This pageant, with a low entry fee of just $75, is open to young ladies in all counties in the state of Georgia. Each contestant must live, work, or attend school in the state of Georgia, and must have been born between 1996 and 2006. Birth certificates and proof of residence are also required.

The pageant features a ten-minute private interview with a panel of five judges, a single question asked on stage during the pageant, and a health and fitness segment where contestants are assessed for their physique as they model red fitness apparel by the pageant sponsor, Rebel.

Contestants are required to perform a 90-second talent on stage before the judges and a general audience. Many talents have been presented in this pageant over the years such as singing, dancing, speed painting, spoken word, and playing instruments.

Competing in this pageant not only provides the opportunity for Georgia teens to enhance their interview and public speaking skills, which will play a huge role when these young women enter the workforce, but it also offers a space of community, camaraderie, and teamwork.

Many of the contestants are involved in local charities and fundraisers such as the March of Dimes, the American Heart Association – another sponsor of the pageant – and Food Insecurity, as well as other community service initiatives. Some use their influence to encourage and mentor school-aged children to develop a love of reading. Others are involved in first-generation financial Continued on page 16

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Happy 2024: New Goals in a New Year

By Tana Poncsak

To many, a new year signifies a blank page or screen. To others, it means a fresh start. Whatever the onset of a new year brings to mind, it’s never the wrong time to reassess your life goals.

According to History.com and The History of New Year’s Resolutions, the first people to make New Year Resolutions were the ancient Babylonians about 4,000 years ago. In the midst of their celebration, they also saw the need to mark the beginning of the new year making sound intentions for the year to come. And we continue to do that very same thing today.

What’s the difference between a resolution and a goal? A quick Google search describes a resolution as “a firm decision to do or not to do something.” A goal is “the object of a person’s ambition or effort; an aim or desired result.” Whether you call them resolutions or goals, what are some things you hope to accomplish during the new year?

Many people like to categorize their goals into different areas of life such as health, financial, professional, etc. Others have started to condense their efforts into a one-word concept for the new year. Words such as mindful, intentional, grateful, bold, and many others come to mind.

One thing’s for sure: as we say goodbye to one year and hello to the next, what most of us really want is for the new year to be better than the year before.

But all the goal setting and resolutions in the world won’t help if once life gets back into full swing and there’s the daily grind to contend with, our intentions for the new year get lost in the shuffle and we fall back into the grip of our old daily habits. So here are some tips for making the most of your New Year’s goals or resolutions.

1. Set aside time to think about what you want 2024 to be like.

2. List your top priorities for the year and clearly define each goal. Don’t be vague. For example, “Get Healthy” is too ambiguous. Be specific and try to visualize reaching each goal.

3. Make a plan of action of how you expect to accomplish each goal.

4. Keep the list handy and refer to it often throughout the year. Track your progress.

5. Things change, so don’t be afraid to revise and update the list of goals as needed.

6. Finally, pick a time before making your new goals for the next year and assess your progress. Where did you nail it, and where did you fall short?

Continued on page 13

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January 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

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Wellness Matters: Tips for a New You in 2024

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

If your New Year’s resolutions list is a mile long, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure where to start. Let these three essential wellness tips set you up for a successful year and give you the power, energy, and determination you need to reach all your other goals.

Make Time for Breakfast Many people make the mistake of skipping breakfast, particularly if trying to lose weight. But breakfast is essential because it gives you the fuel and energy to power the day until lunch. This is important to help kickstart your metabolism and regulate your hunger. Don’t think you have time to prepare a healthy breakfast? You’re not alone. However, many are open to implementing this habit with quicker breakfast options, such as frozen breakfast foods, that cut prep time in half.

Eggland’s Best Frozen Breakfast Bowls, made with hearty ingredients, are

ready to eat in minutes. Not only do the bowls taste great, but they are made with nutritionally superior Eggland’s Best eggs, which contain six times more vitamin D, more than double the Omega3s and ten times more vitamin E compared to ordinary eggs, so you can feel confident that you’re getting optimal nutrition before taking on the busy day ahead.

Practice Self-Care Between work, family life, and other commitments, carving out time for yourself can seem challenging. But a little self-care goes a long way toward helping you recharge and better manage all your responsibilities and stressors. Whether going for a run, taking a yoga class, doing arts and crafts, or reading a book, be sure to spend some time each week doing something you love that makes you feel your best.

Prioritize Sleep Prioritizing sleep will improve every aspect of your physical and mental wellness and help you achieve all your other goals. Unfortunately, streaming devices, social media, and other distractions make it too easy to stay up later than intended. Setting an alarm in the evening can be a gentle reminder that it’s time to put down devices and start your bedtime routine, helping you create a more consistent sleep schedule. This will also eliminate exposure to blue light late in the evening, an environmental factor that has been proven to make it harder to fall asleep.

Achieving your goals starts with feeling your best. Make that happen in this new year by prioritizing the most essential building blocks of health and wellness from sunrise to sundown. It will make all the difference in how you feel. (StatePoint)

Ryan’s Remarks Continued from page 7 will lead to “success” in this new year (no matter what you encounter), and you will grow and help everyone around you to grow to new heights.

Thanks for being part of our amazing Our Town community and for your ongoing support. Our team is so proud to play a role in bringing you local and positive news (through all our media platforms) every month. Here is to a great 2024. And now, and as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

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Making a Difference: Rainbow Village

Present…A Word for Your Day

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

By Jane Bishop

On Saturday, October 7th, in a space the Atlanta Athletic Club often devotes to wedding receptions and company banquets, Rainbow Village hosted its annual We Are Family Benefit Gala. The event included a seated dinner, silent and live auction, a Golden Ticket raffle, the Joel P. Hudson Humanitarian Award presentation, and a heartwarming testimonial from Rainbow Village graduates Adrian and Mary. By the end of the evening, the nonprofit, with a mission to bring Help, Hope, Housing, and Healing to families experiencing homelessness, had raised a record-breaking $505,000 in support of its unique blend of transitional housing and life-transforming programming for families in need.

“What we do requires a lot of dedication and collaboration,” said Rainbow Village CEO Melanie Conner. “We are based in the heart of Duluth on a campus that houses thirty families at a time for up to two years. A network of staff members, board members, community partners, corporate partners, faith partners, volunteers, donors, and faithful prayer warriors make up the ‘village’ that surrounds our Village – and many of them were present the night of the Gala. It’s so incredible to me,” she continued, “that they are not only there to share in the tragedies that lead families in need to our door, but they are also there to share in triumphs like this. In addition to funding the maintenance of our facilities and continued provision of life-altering programs to support both kids and parents in their journey to self-sufficiency, these funds will go a long way in subsidizing our growth and outreach efforts so we can aid even more Continued on page 17

Present as an adjective is defined as “fully focused on or involved in what one is doing or experiencing” (online Oxford Dictionary). In my world of professional coaching, one of the core skills vital to the process is to be fully present with the client(s). To do that, I must be mindful of my surroundings, quiet the chatter in my brain, and practice intentional listening. That blocks distractions that might prevent me from being present in the moment with the person. The focus shifts from me to them so I can provide an effective coaching session.

That fully present skill can be practiced by anyone. I heard Dan Cathy of Chick-fil-A say once, “We have our customers for a moment and in that moment, we must deliver good customer service.”

How often do you miss a moment and pass someone by? How often do you stay focused on a situation and do not share a smile? How often are you talking about your own business in conversations and don’t grasp what others are really saying?

Being fully present is not about quantity of time; it is about quality of time.

It requires us to be intentionally invested in the moment whether five seconds, five minutes, or longer. Consider what’s alive in you right now. For example, where is your mind between the words you are reading? Do you know that where your mind goes, so goes your body (ex. if stressed, the body becomes tense)? And where your mind goes, your energy follows!

Focus on what you notice about your body while reading this article: breathing, body position, etc. Stop reading and capture in writing where your mind is. Then, be fully present with that intel for sixty seconds.

Continued on page 16

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Beyond the Ribbon Provides for Support through Cancer Treatment and Beyond

By Tana Poncsak

A cancer diagnosis can affect more than a patient’s health. It can also affect a patient’s mental well-being, finances, family, and many other areas of life.

No one knows this better than Bobbie Menneg.

As a twelve-year breast cancer survivor, Bobbie understands firsthand what it means to hear those dreaded words, “You have cancer,” and all that follows.

Once done with treatments, Bobbie volunteered with several existing and big named organizations. And although they are all great organizations, she realized something was missing. Through her volunteer work, she noticed just how huge the need for helping those with cancer really is.

“It’s very hard to find help, and the majority of the time, they will only help with rent and utilities,” Bobbie says. “Going through treatment, there’s a whole lot more to it. There are prescriptions, copays, rides to your treatment, cell phone bills, auto insurance…” And to add to these expenses, some patients aren’t able to work. This is why she started the nonprofit called Beyond the Ribbon Inc. The meaning behind the name Beyond the Ribbon is more about after the treatments. What happens then? “A cancer diagnosis and the treatments you go through are lifechanging,” Bobbie says. “There’s more to it than just being a cancer survivor.”

As a survivor herself, Bobbie knows how hard a person fights when given a cancer diagnosis, and she also understands that their life changes with the diagnosis as well. “Learning how to live with it makes life easier,” she says.

And it’s through Beyond the Ribbon that she can be there for them and offer help and support as cancer patients go through their journey.

Beyond the Ribbon Inc is a nonprofit organization with a mission to advocate for support and resources that go beyond a cancer diagnosis and to educate, inspire hope, cultivate awareness, and empower individuals throughout their journey and beyond.

Continued on page 17

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of Snellville and the new Elizabeth Williams Library also display photos from the SHS archives.

The SHS offers various levels of membership and sponsorship ranging from $15 to $1,000. Members receive the Society’s newsletters and are invited to attend the semi-annual meetings to vote on matters concerning the Society.

Applications can be downloaded from the website.

Whether you wish to support the ongoing efforts of the SHS monetarily or through your personal time and service, all contributions are welcome to help keep the history of the beautiful community of Snellville alive.

More information at snellvillehistoricalsociety.com.

One on One: Snellville Historical Society

By Traci Sanders

The Snellville Historical Society (SHS) is an organization devoted to preserving and sharing the heritage of the Snellville community and surrounding areas through researching, documenting, and publicizing its history. The Society was first suggested by Debbie Rich, a city councilmember, but Sybil Deaton and Carolyn Kirkland took the reins and spearheaded its establishment.

On the SHS website, visitors can see photographs of some of Snellville’s earliest settlers and businesses. Tom Snell and James Sawyer, two friends from England, voyaged over to the United States around 1874 and settled in New York. A few months later, they made their way down south and ended up in Georgia, laying down roots in what is known as Snellville today.

Snell and Sawyer started a business together, constructing a wood frame building that is currently the home of the Tire Depot. The two friends eventually dissolved their business partnership, but both men continued to find success as businessmen and investors in the area. Their generosity is said to have played a vital role in the establishment of several churches and schools throughout Snellville. A statue of Snell and Sawyer was presented to the city

by ER Snell Construction.

The SHS published a book by Tom Ewing about The School – a consolidated school that was comprised of grades 1-11, and later grade 12 in 1952. The full book can be purchased on the SHS website for $30 for members and $35 for non-members. It boasts 351 pages of details and photographs relevant to the school staff and activities, as well as an index.

The website also offers a book that was commissioned by the SHS titled 200 Years of Snellville History, by local author James W. Cofer Jr. This 529-page book contains over 360 photos, figures, and tables, as well as over 275 cited references about Snellville. It documents stories about some of the earliest settlers in the area as well as many of the initial businesses and organizations. This book is available for purchase on the website as well. The City

New Goals in a New Year Continued from page 9 And why? Don’t beat yourself up for what you didn’t achieve. Perhaps there was a good reason. Be sure to make notes and recognize where you saw progress.

We hope you realize all your goals and dreams whatever the new year brings. And we wish you a safe, healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year in 2024!

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Are You a Medicare Rookie? Pros Can Help You Find the Right Plan

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Roughly 4.4 million Americans will reach the age of 65 in 2024, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While age is just a number in some respects, this birthday marks the time when Americans become eligible for the federal Medicare health insurance program. And if you’ll be hitting this milestone soon, you’re in good company as athlete, entrepreneur, and philanthropist Earvin “Magic” Johnson will be doing the same. “I’ve been a rookie a few times in my life, but this time, I’m new to Medicare,” says Johnson.

Medicare is the government health insurance program for Americans 65 and older and those under 65 with certain disabilities, providing hospital coverage (Part A) and physician visits (Part B) to those who qualify. This year’s Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) takes place between October 15 to December 7, 2023. Rookies and pros alike can hone their health insurance selection game plan with some coaching. That’s why Magic Johnson got these tips from Cigna Healthcare, which serves millions of Medicare customers nationwide: 1. Don’t delay. Medicare has a seven-month window around your 65th birthday called the Initial Enrollment Period. Enrolling outside this window could result in higher premiums on Medicare Part B for the rest of your life.

However, if you’re still working, you may be able to keep your current plan, depending on the size of your company, and switch to Medicare without penalty when you retire. If you’re not working and you’ve already filed for Social Security, you’ll be automatically enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B when you turn 65.

Three Daily Habits That Increase Your Healthspan

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Americans are optimistic about their longevity. A recent survey by MDVIP – a national network of primary care doctors focused on preventive medicine – and Ipsos found that 67% of Americans want to live longer than their parents, and 87% want to take steps to live healthier for longer. However, 74% of Americans failed a basic 20-question quiz on the lifestyle factors that influence aging and longevity.

Living longer doesn’t happen by accident or by the grace of genetics alone. “Study after study has shown that our lifetime of decisions about what we eat, whether we exercise or whether we’re managing stress have a considerable impact on how well we age,” said Dr. Andrea Klemes, chief medical officer at MDVIP. Another thing to consider is that extending your lifespan shouldn’t be the only goal. You want to focus on maximizing the number of healthy years of your life. By increasing your “healthspan” – how many years you live without severe disease – you can enjoy your life well into your 80s and beyond.

Here are three simple but essential habits you can incorporate into your life to help improve your healthspan.

1. Invest in your health like you do your finances. According to the survey, 54% of Americans admit they plan more for their financial future than their health. To invest in your health, you need to learn more about your family’s medical history and how lifestyle changes can improve your healthspan. “Just like you start saving for retirement in your 20s, you need to start investing as early as possible in your health,” said Dr. Klemes. “Try taking a ‘portfolio’ approach to longevity and make sure you have a primary care doctor who will help you build the right mix of healthy habits based on your history, risk factors, and goals.”

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2. Know what’s covered. Medicare Parts A and B are sometimes called Original Medicare and cover hospital and physician expenses. To cover things like dental, vision, hearing, and pharmacy, you may opt for a Medicare Advantage plan (also known as Part C), which covers everything that Medicare does and provides additional benefits, including, in many cases, prescription drugs (also known as Part D). Assessing your budget, health needs, doctor preferences, and lifestyle will be important in making your best choice.

3. Read the fine print. Before signing up for a particular plan, ensure your favorite healthcare providers are in its network. While you may be able to go out of the network for care, be prepared to pay more if you do. You’ll also want to factor in all the associated costs of a given plan, including monthly premiums, co-pays, and deductibles, as well as the prices and rules around the prescription drugs you take.

4. Get help. Turn to resources and platforms that can help ensure you understand the plan you’re enrolling in. Call Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) 24/7. TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. Or visit the Medicare Plan Finder website at Medicare.gov/plan-compare. Refer to the State Health Insurance Assistance Program at www.shiptacenter.org for local assistance.

5. Use your benefits. For optimal health, make full use of your plan’s benefits. Be sure to get the wellness checks and preventive screenings needed for your age and health status. If your plan offers extra perks, such as fitness or nutrition programs, take advantage of them.

“If you find out that the plan you signed up for last year is not the right fit, lean into the experts about what works best for you and make changes during AEP to set yourself up for a winning year,” says Johnson. (StatePoint) Investing in your health doesn’t require overhauling your life in one night.

You can talk with your doctor about your current health status and work to set realistic goals and benchmarks you can work toward over time. By creating a plan and making small incremental changes to your lifestyle, you can reap dividends in healthier years now and in the future.

2. Prioritize socializing and happiness. When you think about your health, you likely think about what you, as an individual, can do to improve your wellness and longevity. However, the relationships you form and maintain throughout your life can significantly impact your health.

That’s because having healthy, stable, and strong relationships positively impacts your happiness. According to an 85-year-long study by Harvard University, there is a direct correlation between social connections and longevity.

People with strong social ties with their friends, family, and community are happier, healthier, and live longer than those less well-connected.

Other research supports the Harvard finding. A 2022 article published in the Journal of American Geriatrics Society found that optimism is associated with healthy aging and longevity across racial and ethnic groups. Make it a point to schedule regular calls, meet-ups, and activities with people you care about so you can be happier and help contribute to their happiness and health, too.

3. Find a primary care physician (PCP). Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician and getting annual check-ups is vital to improving your healthspan. A PCP will get to know you and monitor any changes to your health that could otherwise be missed if you don’t have a regular doctor.

Another advantage of having a PCP is that you can talk about your risk factors and ways to prevent disease instead of reacting only to health problems as they appear.

If you want to lead a healthier, more vibrant life, visit MDVIP.com/ LongevityIQ and take the Longevity quiz to understand more about the factors that influence aging. There you can also learn the steps to help extend your healthy years. (BPT)

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One Man’s Opinion: In Celebration of Non-Traditional Families

By Bill Crane

I can’t even remember the first time I heard the phrase non-traditional family, but I think it was related to one of my daughter Olivia’s school meetings, where we were being referred to as a non-traditional family. There is perhaps no other time of year more wrapped up in traditions, as well as bows, than the holiday season, from Chanukkah through Christmas and Kwanza, as well as Mawlid al-Nabi (the Muslim celebration of the Prophet Mohammed’s birthday during December), and various other non-denominational celebrations squeezed in between. Though my parents were together for sixty-two years before Mom transitioned nearly eighteen months ago, my own marriage ended in divorce, as do more than half of all marriages today.

I am blessed with two daughters, born of two loving and different mothers, as well as two grandsons and a son-in-law. My two girls have six sets of grandparents between them, and it requires geometry to tabulate all the cousins and second cousins. The logistics and planning of traditional holiday events thus became harder, as everyone wants their children and family nearby, but short of cloning (still working on that), being in multiple places all at once remains the most significant demand of the holiday season.

Being the classic divorced Disney Dad, I have tried to appreciate and celebrate those special days, like birthdays, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Eve and Day, whenever we can gather, versus on the actual day. The time spent together is magic, even if it’s a few days early or late.

It’s that attitude that shapes gratitude. Olivia’s mother and I alternate holidays, so she was in Alabama this Christmas Eve and Day. Still, she returned

Travel Tales: Dude Ranch Heaven

By Pam Walker

Have you ever considered going to a Dude Ranch? Yes, those of us on the East Coast who live on farms or acreage are considered “Dudes.” With the Yellowstone TV series breaking records, the Dude Ranch Association is also reporting record-setting visitor numbers.

There are many types of Dude Ranches. They vary from inexpensive ones where they teach you to ride and then put you to work, to the very upscale ones where everything is done for you and the cabins and accommodations are deluxe.

Brush Creed Ranch is a Virtuoso branded property and even has a spa! When you finish your horsy activities, you can relax in their pool and get a massage. There are several others like this that offer fishing, riding, and superb culinary experiences along with unrivaled wine lists.

There are others that are offering holiday (now called “festive Season”) specials. They boast days filled with trail rides, hikes, horse-drawn wagon rides, fishing, natural history chats, and kid activities. Keep in mind that at this time of year, you can ride in the snow, too, so bring your woolies.

Most have cabin-type accommodations, but some are big lodges with more than forty rooms. All meals are included and some even offer the “chuck wagon” experience to learn how the real cowboys lived in the wilderness. One

January 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

on the 26th for a Crane family trek to Orlando, the House of Mouse, and Universal Studios. Memories of a prior trip with this crew and the pre-arrival of our twin Mighty Mites to the Greenbrier Resort in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, fill my mind and heart with memories, stories, and smiles. And this trip should fill a whole other life chapter.

We will land in the Disney Parks first, staying nearby in Disney Springs. The trip, as was the Greenbrier, will be a splurge, but the photos alone will be worth this investment. Trips to Orlando became a summer and holiday staple with both of my girls, Barclay from grade school into her late teens and Olivia since kindergarten. Typically traveling as a party of two, this will be my first time traveling to the Orlando parks with a party of six. Though both my banker and broker warned me, the interest rates on home equity lines and second mortgages are coming down again. Surprisingly affordable, thanks to Bidenomics...Ho, Ho, Ho. I used to move through this time of year in a non-traditional fashion, tacking a snow/sin/sun week or weekend on the slopes in Colorado, followed or preceded by a swing through Las Vegas. I spent many a Christmas through the New Year this way, and I was on the Vegas Strip early Christmas morning in 1995 when Dean Martin passed through the pearly gates into that high roller suite in the sky. That flight back was a little melancholy. The in-flight movie was the original, Santa Clause, a Disney flick adding nicely to the staples of the Christmas season. Several tearful moments were spent during that movie, with my divorce still fresh in the rear-view. I would not have the opportunity to spend Christmas Eve, Day, or morning with my firstborn again until almost the recent day.

And yet, for all the challenges facing our nation, I, for one – and I think there are several million more of me – am glad to see we have reached a time and place of acceptance and celebration of families of all stripes, all genders, all races, all cultures/faiths, and all ages. Family and blood relations still matter, but so do families of friendship, choice, and increasingly second choice. My namesake and grandfather, William C. “Bud” Crane, had five wives. He was just a bit ahead of his time.

And so, as we head south, in hopes of a bit drier and warmer weather, with Santa having just paid us all a visit and those bills not due until at least mid-January, please join me in wishing a blessed holiday season and New Year to all. From our non-traditional and, on occasion, dysfunctional family (you cannot spell dysfunctional without the fun), may all your days, holidays, and New Year be bright! God bless us, everyone.

Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com of the ranches has styled its accommodations to represent an old western town where you might spend the nights in an old jail or a saloon!

Most every ranch has a kids program where they have everything from petting zoos to learning about horses and animals and riding lessons. They also show them roping and other cowboy activities and teach them about nature to get them excited about ranch life.

These ranches can be found all the way from California to North Carolina.

However, the majority are located in Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, and Arizona. They are great places to visit in winter or summer to learn archery or how to barn dance or go mountain biking or climb the nearby mountains.

Each ranch has a different set of experiences you can enjoy. You can even join a cattle drive or join a women’s or men’s week with activities planned for each different group.

The ranches are located in some of the most spectacular scenery in the West. In summer and in winter, the ranches help celebrate the seasons with special activities and meals for Thanksgiving and Christmas. So, if you have ever wanted to experience the old west – not à la Yellowstone – now is the time. They are all small and are taking bookings now. Enjoy a good old fashioned time in the Old West!

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@ walkeradventures.com

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Miss Gwinnett County Pageant Continued from page 8

Present…A Word for Your Day Continued from page 11

clubs and speak to college students about financial education.

Community appearances are part of the pageant experience as well.

Contestants participate in festivities such as the City of Snellville Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting, Grayson Days Parade, Gwinnett County Relay for Life, and the Dacula Memorial Parade. They have also been seen singing the National Anthem or throwing out the first pitch at a Gwinnett Stripers game.

The Miss Gwinnett Pageant is a preliminary event that paves the way for winners to compete in the Miss Georgia and Miss America pageants as well.

The Miss America pageant is the largest provider of scholarships for women in America.

The pageant life isn’t just about glitz and glamour. These young ladies are acquiring marketable skills for future employment and social skills to become high-functioning citizens, while also serving the needs of the community at large.

More information at www.missgwinnettcountypageant.com.

Whether you chose to do the activity or not may reflect your mindset. The mindset we operate from reflects our attitude, which comes from our belief system and how we view self. From my coaching perspective, if you are unable to be fully present with yourself for sixty seconds, how can you be fully present with others?

In our culture of real time information streaming 24/7 over multiple virtual sites providing an overload of noise, I invite you to step aside for a moment and begin practicing being fully present. Look for a “Vuja De Moment” which occurs “…when you see everything as if for the first time or better still, you see everything everyone else sees but you understand it differently, more keenly” (from Shift Your Brilliance by Simon T. Bailey).

It’s these fully present moments that can stretch our thinking, shift our focus, and trigger a different attitude. Enjoy experiencing the benefits of practicing being fully present with yourself and with others.

More information at www.janebishoplive.com.

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Rainbow Village Continued from page 11 families than ever before.”

There was no dry eye in the room when Adrian and Mary shared what it meant to them to transition from homelessness to homeownership. While these two friends have always dreamed of being homeowners, they had no idea how or when that would happen. They shared that the dream may never have become reality without Rainbow Village.

Presented by Northside Hospital, the Rainbow Village We Are Family Benefit Gala was backed by a wide range of family, foundation, religious, and corporate sponsors. Included among them were the Lorentzen Family, the DeLoach Family in honor of Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church, Metro Waterproofing, Wilson Lewis CPAs, 12Stone Church, Morgan Stanley – The Terminus Group, Abernathy Development Company, Porter Steel, Georgia Power, Subaru of Gwinnett, Renasant Bank, Axis Companies, Nordson, Boots Up Endeavors, Leslie Harrison, and the Kress, Fletcher, and Bass Families, among others.

Not limited to the people inside the ballroom, the nonprofit created avenues for anyone to participate in the evening’s fundraising efforts through the silent auction and purchase of Golden Tickets – both available through the Rainbow Village website. Ali Floyd was declared the winner of the Golden Ticket – granting her the choice of one of three exotic beach locations for four nights and four guests.

Another major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2023 Joel P. Hudson Humanitarian Award – named after the late Reverend Hudson, founding rector of Christ Episcopal Church, which served as the birthplace of Rainbow Village. Rainbow Village was honored to present this year’s award to Subaru of Gwinnett for the way they Share the Love with the community.

Subaru of Gwinnett has selected Rainbow Village as its Hometown Charity for its annual Share the Love Campaign since 2015.

In addition to financial support, they have also shared time and talent by hosting on-campus events for Rainbow Village families, including Spring Break Bash, Back to School Events, sprucing up the campus with holiday decorations, providing the opportunity for resident kids to attend a ballet, and so much more. Rainbow Village is not the only beneficiary of Subaru of Gwinnett’s love and support of the community. They also support Planned

January 2024 Our Town Gwinnett

Pethood, The Elachee Nature Center, Hopkins Elementary School, and the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Jennifer Kessler, General Manager, and Julie Adams, Warranty Admin and Love Promise Champion, accepted this award.

While the event has come and gone for another year, opportunities to support Rainbow Village and the families it serves exist year-round.

More information at www.RainbowVillage.org.

Beyond the Ribbon Continued from page 12 The organization provides help in tangible ways when patients need it most.

Through the organization, Bobbie works directly with the social workers at the hospitals and the infusion centers, so she knows the patients need help. And being a small organization, she has the unique ability to provide the help they need relatively quickly. “They send me a copy of their bill, and I go online and pay it,” she says. “That’s very helpful to them.” To the patient and family, it can bring some much-needed relief during what’s already a very stressful time.

Bobbie is very hands on when it comes to helping those who are fighting against cancer – from helping pay bills to going to the store for a patient and picking up a few things they need. “It’s very personal,” Bobbie says. “I try very hard to meet everyone, but if I can’t meet them, we’ll talk on the phone. A lot of them are family to me now.” And if for any reason Bobbie isn’t available herself, she has volunteers who can step in and take on the task.

While some of the help Bobbie is able to provide through Beyond the Ribbon is financial, she stresses that one of her goals is to help those going through treatment as a connector – teaching them to be their own advocate and just being there for them. “It’s okay to need help,” she says. “And to have someone who has been through that journey and who understands that journey, is so impactful to them. It helps them to feel better and to be able to face another day.”

Beyond the Ribbon is not limited by gender or by the type of cancer diagnosis. In fact, Bobbie realizes finding help through organizations for some types of cancer can be difficult. As a connector, she knows the kind of cancer each person she helps has, and she tries to connect them with those who have or have had the same kind of cancer, so they can support one another.

More information at beyondtheribboninc.org

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