MAR 2017: Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Magazine

MARCH 2017 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

Meet the team at Vecoma at Yellow River, see story on page 5

7 10 13 15

From the Publisher: One Man’s Heart Community Spotlight: Lilburn Relay for Life Rally Catching Up with Carl Friese of Village Corner Getting Schooled: Principal Tonya Burnley of Gwin Oaks

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

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Our Town

Pondering pregnancy?

We’re With You. Think you’re ready? Some would say you never truly are – but the most important thing to do is to think it through. DeKalb Medical has been delivering babies for over 50 years and we love helping prospective parents make the decision that is right for them. Ready to start pondering? Visit PonderingPregnancy.com to download 10 Questions for Every Pondering Parent. You can also watch videos introducing you to our Obstetricians, so you can find one that thinks just like you.

Our Town For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049 1313-DMED-Maternity Pondering 1 - OurTown_Blue 10x10.125.indd 1

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1/16/17 10:32 AM

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Our Town

On the Cover: Vecoma at the Yellow River is an Idyllic Venue for a Special Event

By Heidi Campbell As visitors drive up to the Snellville property surrounding Vecoma at the Yellow River, they completely forget that they are mere moments from the hustle and bustle of a metropolis. Nestled quietly amidst the trees, this property is an ideal blend of eloquence, intimacy, and beauty. The grounds are pristine, and the reception hall is tastefully decorated with the elegance of light streaming through the exposed rafters and the charm of flowing table décor and unique antiques that add to the appeal.

The owners, Caroline Tucker and Judith Warren, a mother-daughter team, have worked together for twenty years – even during football season when they cheer for opposing teams. Judith is a die-hard Georgia Bulldog fan, and Caroline cheers for her alma mater, Georgia Tech. They put the school rivalries aside, however, and enjoy working together to create the perfect venue for weddings, retreats, anniversaries, company parties, and birthday celebrations. “This is a family business. My sons are fifth generation Atlantans,” Caroline explains, “and my two sons enjoy helping out with the business. Now they are dishwashers, but they are looking forward to running the business someday.

My husband is licensed to be a wedding officiant. The whole family is involved.”

The deck of the main building overlooks the stunning grounds that border the Yellow River.

Wedding couples walk toward the water along a stone path between rows of seated guests where they say “I do” under a beautiful awning. “The best part of this property is that it is so secluded on the river, and there are seventy acres of forest around us,” Caroline points out. “There are places like this in Dahlonega, but with Vecoma you don’t have to drive all those hours to have a destination wedding!”

The property has been in the family since the 1920s. Caroline’s great-great grandfather, Harry “Cotton” Mather, was a successful business owner. As his furniture business grew throughout Georgia and Florida, Cotton and his wife, Venie, were able to see their dreams to fruition. They purchased the land along both sides of the Yellow River, and, by 1927, built a six-sided get-away in the forest. They named their retreat Vecoma, with the first four letters representing the first two letters of each of their names. Visitors can still see the original foundation and chimney when they visit the new reception hall, which was built in 1996. “Cotton passed the land on to his daughter, and then it was left to my mother,” explains Caroline. “We knew we didn’t want to sell the land.

We’re conservationists, plus it was sentimental! We wanted to keep it in the family.”

Judith spent time on the property as a kid, and, in 1996, had the idea to build the venue. Vecoma

HOURS: Open Monday – Thursday 10 am – 9 pm Friday & Saturday 10 AM – 10 PM Sunday CLOSED

at the Yellow River is a full service venue for special occasions, employing close to twenty dedicated part time employees who work to make the events the best that they can be. Vecoma provides the food and bar for all events. They have numerous bar options, from open bar to cash bar, and all options include a professional bartender for the event. The food is prepared by Vecoma’s executive chefs, Walter Reed and A.B. Bailey, who have been with Vecoma the entire twenty years. They use all fresh ingredients. The menu can be suited to satisfy nearly any palate. They offer brunch choices, traditional Bfare, Italian or Mexican selections, and their specialty, Southern cuisine. They can do sit down, plated meals for up to 150 guests with all indoor seating, or 250 if they add additional seating on the beautiful covered deck overlooking the river. They can serve up to 320 guests for those Continued on page 21

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PAGE 5

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Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm EndResultZ.com

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio Cover Photographer Amadorphoto Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Daidra Annis Heidi Campbell Kim Hill Karla Socci Somers Michelle Watson Contributing Writers Lisa Brittain Bill Crane Ruben Diaz, MD Lawson Hale Lisa Clinkscale Porter Sheila Rashad Starshine Stanfield

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 2017 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Our Town Gwinnett 1227 Rockbridge Road Suite 208-171 Stone Mountain, GA 30087 678-825-2049 Info@OurTownGwinnett.com

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IN THIS ISSUE

“Exceptional coffees and teas complimented with house made breads, sweets and savories.”

851 Oak Road Lawrenceville GA

(470) 268-7430 PAGE 6

5 7 8 9 10

On the Cover: Vecoma at the Yellow River is an Idyllic Venue for a Special Event

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

Community Spotlight: Staged Right Theatre in Lilburn

From the Publisher: One Man’s Heart Skin So Simple: Happy New Skin Getting to Know: Books by the Pound in Lawrenceville April 21st Promises to be an Evening of Food, Music, and Family Fun at the Lilburn Relay for Life Rally in Lilburn City Park Service Dogs, Veterans, Crawfish Boil, BBQ, and More!

The Village Corner German Restaurant & Bakery Gears Up for their Spring Events Top 5 Novels to Escape Into on a Chilly Afternoon Getting Schooled: Tonya Burnley, Principal of Gwin Oaks Elementary One on One: Georgia State Retirees Association More Than Meets the Eye in Eye Care Dr. Thomas Mahon, Mountain View Eye Associates

18 Crane’s Corner: Political Insights from Bill Crane 20 What is a Physiatrist?

22 Character Counts: Up Close with NG3 and Brookwood High School

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

From the Publisher: One Man’s Heart

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

It was February 3, 2017. I remember it well as it was Super Bowl weekend for my beloved Falcons. I was so excited as all my traveling was done, and both editions of Our Town Magazine were printed and posted online. I was happy. My wife of twenty years, our three daughters, and I decided to have a fun and relaxed family weekend. And, I could not wait to watch the game with them on my relatively new sofa and television.

Everyone was hungry that Friday evening, and my family urged me to grill out the hamburgers. I was not hungry yet, but when four ladies tell you to grill, you grill. So, I did what I have done thousands of times and turned on the propane tank and lit up the grill. And all was good. I waited for the grill to warm up and then put the hamburgers on it. I realized I needed a few things, so I went back inside the house, which was about twelve feet from the grill.

About 45 seconds later, I saw a large flame come up from the grill. This was a bigger flame than I usually see, but not too crazy. The next flame shook my world. It was about 12 feet high and 7 feet wide!

Propane was leaking and an inferno had begun. I yelled to my kids and wife to get out as I quickly saw the fire going up the side of my sunroof to the roof. The fire then came through the window, breaking the glass and spreading to the sofa and sunroom. And the smoke was terrible.

All this time I was working to put out the fire with water and then a fire extinguisher as my wife called 911. Smoke detectors went off. Our home security system went off. My middle daughter was in the shower and couldn’t hear what was going on. My oldest daughter had to kick her door down to tell her to get out. All this occurred in minutes. My kids ran to tell our neighbors in our cul-de-sac. I was still inside and had no clue why or how my neighbors came to be beside me with their own fire extinguishers. You see, they risked their own lives, and they ran into harm’s way into a very smoky and fiery house to help me try to slow/stop the fire. I need to insert here how proud I am of both my wife and kids for how they handled this emergency in minutes. Like many people, we have never “prepared” for such a situation as we should have.

This was an out-of-body type experience. I learned later that my neighbors and friends saw the roof on fire and came running from everywhere toward our home. There was a Parkview basketball game that night, and word spread quickly about our house fire. The first responders from two different fire departments, ambulance, and police all arrived in six minutes. They were amazing.

We got out of the house. We had all stayed too long trying to slow the fire that we breathed in too much smoke. The fire fighters arrived one minute after we could no longer breathe. My wife, kids, family, and friends were piled into our cul-de sac. Although I don’t remember too much, I do remember that I was in shorts, a t-shirt, and barefoot, and it was in the 30-degree range. Yet, I never felt cold. I stood in our driveway for the next couple hours in shock. For anyone who knows me, when I am not talking, something is usually wrong. People brought me socks, a jacket, blankets, and more. The kindness, hugs, and continued love that night was amazing. I couldn’t understand all that was happening, but I felt the support and togetherness of our community. This support has continued in subsequent weeks as we have received meals and more in our basically unusable downstairs. A special thanks to Camp Creek Elementary School for all the meals the first couple weeks. You see anyone – it does not have to be a church – can show God’s love and caring, and we feel it. Again, we are quite humbled by all the love and caring.

Our house has significant damage and we have had a traumatic life experience. But, we are all okay.

God had his hand on us that night. There is no doubt about it. There are so many things, in addition to this, that I am glad to share (but not enough space to put in this column). This will all go on for another few months as our home is rebuilt. The smoke damage on all floors was horrible. But, if not for God’s timing and protection, I would not be writing this to you.

Every month I write/share how great our community is. I have just lived it. I talk about how we must unite – and that night and in subsequent weeks after I have had every person you could imagine – every creed, religion, gender, skin color, etc. – caring for us and helping us. And we all really do have so much in common. Our Town is even better than I realized.

I am simply overwhelmed and just thankful for the love the community has shown my family. Most people do not know the damage inside our home, and how tough and stressful it is each day. But human beings deal with far worse than this. We are so blessed and so fortunate to have a home still, and to still be alive. The first responders, ServPro, our family, friends and neighbors were and continue to be amazing.

I tell you each month we live somewhere special. This was confirmed to me 100%. I have never felt so helpless in all my life; yet the caring, kindness, meals, gift cards, notes of encouragement, and more have come from everywhere. And oftentimes, they have come from people or places I would never have expected.

Continued on page 20

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PAGE 7

Skin So Simple: Happy New Skin

Atlanta Premier

By Lisa Clinkscale Porter, Aesthetician

“Your Junk And Moving Services”

Everyone can achieve and maintain healthy skin for a lifetime when you follow three easy steps. I explained previously that the first steps were to have a good daily regimen using the correct products, and here is the third step, along with a few other tips for anti-aging.

It’s essential to get a professional, customized skin care treatment as recommended by an aesthetician, at least one time per month. An aesthetician is a skin care specialist who is licensed by the state to provide a multitude of skin care services. Not only does an aesthetician provide effective skin care treatments, but he or she also provides a thorough skin analysis and consultation that include how to care for your skin at home. The aesthetician will also make the appropriate recommendations on what products and services will be most beneficial to you.

In addition to a 5-step daily regimen, it is always a good idea to include a light exfoliant to remove dead surface cells at least once a week to maintain smooth, soft skin. Also, a facial masque is very beneficial to either force the absorption of moisture from water, vitamins, anti-aging ingredients, etc. into the skin, or to remove impurities from the skin. Your aesthetician can recommend what your skin needs based on the current condition of the skin, the season, and the goal you are trying to reach. A masque may be necessary to use one to two times per week to help with clarity and hydration.

Last, but not least, everyone must also treat the eye and neck areas with special care. These two areas do not have oil glands, so it’s important to use products especially formulated with oil or glycerin to provide the moisture the eye and neck area lack from oil. These are the first two areas to show signs of aging if they are not cared for properly.

If you have any skin care questions and would like to “ASK LISA,” please email lisa@uniquefaceoptions.com Lisa Clinkscale Porter is owner of Unique Face Options, Inc. More information at http://www.uniquefaceoptions.com/

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Our Town

Getting to Know: Books by the Pound in Lawrenceville

Gwinnett’s premier event destination for 20 years!

By Michelle Watson Books by the Pound is a new, used bookstore, located at 860 Duluth Highway in Lawrenceville.

Partners Cris Williams, Justin Krewatch, Kevin Shaw, and Todd Harrison had plans to one day open a physical location, and on February 18, 2017, they opened their first brick-and-mortar store. The location, on the corner of Highways 120 and 316, is highly visible with easy access.

Books by the Pound is a revolutionary way to buy used books. Buyers are charged by weight. The first three pounds are charged at a rate of $3.99 per pound; for books weighing three to eight pounds, the charge is $2.99 per pound, and for anything over eight pounds, the rate is $1.99 per pound. This means the more you buy, the less you pay per book. Books titles are mostly new, but they are planning to grow their antique book selection as time goes on.

Many reports from various sources claim that the public is moving away from purchasing paper books to using electronic sources. The men at Books by the Pound know this is not true. Krewatch says we actually live in a period of what he calls digital fatigue. The public wants to continue buying paper books to give their eyes a break from all of the electronic screens that so many people read from all day.

In fact, Books by the Pound adds new titles daily. When they first founded the company, they were buying books and reselling them. However, the long-term business model is based on their generous trade-in program. As Williams says, you can use what you don’t want to get what you do want. Bring your unwanted books to the store and they will give you store credit, which you can use to purchase anything in the store. You are allowed to apply store credit equal to 50% of your total purchase.

The sense of community that revolves around books is very important to the owners and the way they want to operate their store. Williams says people from every country come into the store, and books are a common denominator that binds them. A family-friendly atmosphere further creates warmth in the large, warehouse-size facility. There is comfortable seating for customers to sit and talk, and a train table for the kids in the back. The books they sell are also family-friendly. The four partners and their welcoming staff purge anything that is risqué or uncensored.

In the interest of helping the community-at-large, Books by the Pound gives in tremendous ways. They donated books to the middle schools of Gwinnett County by allowing teachers to visit the nearby warehouse and select a book for each of their students. The students thanked the store by writing letters, with many indicating that their new book was their most prized possession.

Additionally, anyone who works in service to the public is given a discount. This includes military, police, students, teachers, homeschoolers, and more. Williams says they want to let public service workers know they are appreciated, and giving them a discount is one way to do that.

Books by the Pounds’ store hours are Monday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday and Saturday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Stop in and see the enormous selection they have that changes on a daily basis.

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PAGE 9

April 21st Promises to be an Evening of Food, Music, and Family Fun at the Lilburn Relay for Life Rally in Lilburn City Park

ths-olds n o m + 6 Parents Out Morning s y Thursda

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Now enrolling for 2017-2018 Kindergarten (Monday-Friday) PreK (4 or 5 days) Threes (3 or 4 days) Toddlers & Twos (2-4 days) School hours are 9:20-1:20

Inquire about extended care for afternoons

5901 Hugh Howell Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 For more information, please call the Rev. Valerie Coe Lowder (Director) or Alison Gibbs (Assistant Director) at 678-533-0558.

According to the National Cancer Institute, over 1.6 million new cases of cancer were diagnosed in the United States in 2016, and over half a million people died of the disease. With these statistics, it is a sad reality that nearly everyone is impacted by cancer either with their own diagnosis or that of a friend or family member. Each year, the Lilburn community comes together in Lilburn City Park for an evening of fundraising to support the American Cancer Society. This year, the Lilburn Relay Rally will be held on Friday, April 21st from 5:00 - 9:00 p.m.

The Lilburn Relay Rally raised $32,000 last year, and they hope to raise $35,000 this year. All of the money raised is donated to the Gwinnett Relay for Life, which is one of the American Cancer Society’s biggest fundraisers in the country. The Gwinnett event is held in May at the fairgrounds.

Mandy McManus, an active member of the Lilburn Woman’s Club who helps plan the event, says, “We are still looking to get people involved in the Lilburn Rally! People can become sponsors and have their names put on a banner and t-shirt, or they can become a team and have a booth at the event. Anyone can create a team – we have teams of dental offices, schools, and families. I’m on the Lilburn Farmer’s Market Team and our booth is themed ‘food is medicine – eat well, be well,’ and we’ll be selling fruit-infused waters. There are even prizes for the best decorated booth. It’s a lot of fun!”

The Lilburn Relay Rally is for the entire family. The Sweetwater Masons donate meat and grill BBQ, burgers, and hot dogs to raise money. The stage will be set, thanks to the sound provided

by Music on Main Street, and live music will entertain the crowds all evening. The lineup includes Ralph Roddenberry, BJ Wilbanks, The Mecredy Family, and a bluegrass band called The Crying Room Players. There will be team booths, each with its own unique fundraiser, so attendance at the event truly impacts the amount raised for the American Cancer society. “This is really a family event,” McManus promises. “People can come, bring chairs, listen to music, eat some great food, and hopefully spend some money for a great cause!”

The evening at the park is truly worth attending. The event begins at 5:00 p.m. with a Survivor’s Reception, in the Pavilion, where caregivers and survivors get a free meal put on by the Lilburn Women’s Club. Once they finish their meal and fellowship, the survivors walk the track at the park carrying a banner. Throughout the evening of music and activities, people buy luminaries, which are white paper bags filled with sand and a candle. They write the name of someone they want to honor on their luminaries. As soon as it gets dark, these bags are placed all along the track, the park lights are shut off, and the luminaries are lit. A bagpiper plays music. “At this point, everyone leaves their booths and they follow the bagpiper around the track,” McManus explains. “Tears are shed.

It is beautiful to see all of those bags lit for people who lost their battle and for those who are still fighting.”

More information at http://main.acsevents.org/site/TR/RelayForLife/RFLCY17SA?pg=entry&fr_ id=82996

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For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Community Spotlight: Staged Right Theatre in Lilburn

DeKalb Psychiatric Associates 2711 Irvin Way, Suite 211 v Decatur, GA 30030

By Starshine Stanfield Staged Right Theatre, Lilburn’s new community theatre, arrives at the midpoint of their debut season with A Doll’s House, the once highly controversial classic by Henrik Ibsen. Penned in 1879 and premiering that same year, A Doll’s House immediately became the subject of vehement debate. While some critics applauded the play’s “ethical gravity,” others groused that the ending was “revolting” and “crass.” In fact, Ibsen was forced to write an alternate ending for many theatres that refused to produce the play as written.

Set in 19th century Norway, A Doll’s House introduces us to the Helmer family, consisting of Torvald Helmer at the head of the household, his sweet little lark of a wife, Nora, and their three beloved children. To all appearances, they are a perfect little family living in a perfect little house. When the perfection of their life is disrupted, however, Nora finds her faith in her husband - and her marriage - deeply shaken. The steps she takes in light of this new perspective left 19th century audiences in shock.

Staged in the Historic Wynne-Russell House in Lilburn, also a 19th century classic, A Doll’s House will be a uniquely immersive experience. Set designer Spencer Estes places the audience right in the Torvald’s living room, and director Brian Jones weaves the action around and through the audience.

The production stars Ilene Miller in the pivotal role of Nora, with Spencer Estes opposite her in the role of Torvald. The show opens March 10, 2017, and runs for three weekends, with performances on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. More information about show dates and times, as well as tickets, can be found at www.stagedrighttheatre.org

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By Sheila Rashad - Executive Director, Top Dogg K9 Foundation Top Dogg K9 Foundation, home of VDOGS (Veterans Deserve Outstanding Generosity and Services), is opening our brand new location at 4776 Stone Mountain Highway in Lilburn. The foundation provides resources and service dogs to our veterans and those who are disabled, as well as training, grooming, and boarding services to the general public for our four-legged friends.

Please join our veterans, their families, and WSB-TV anchor Craig Lucie on Saturday, March 11th, from 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at our new facility which Home Depot helped to renovate. One hundred percent of the proceeds will go toward providing service dogs to our heroes and sheroes. A suggested $10 donation will allow guests to enjoy the BBQ, or for $22 you can enjoy the crawfish boil and beer. Why 22? Because we unfortunately lose 22 veterans a day to suicide, but we are currently working to reverse that trend to “22 saved.”

Our program shows that man’s best friend can help save lives almost immediately! If you would like to get involved or sponsor the event, let us know. We are just getting started, and would love to see a HUGE turnout. Soldiers need allies on the battlefield, but especially when they return home.

Our veterans fought for us, so now we must fight for them. Come on out on March 11th, enjoy some great food and drink with live music, and let our veterans know we care!!

Sheila Rashad - Executive Director, Top Dogg K9 Foundation. More information at http://vdogs.org

The Georgia State Retirees Association (GSRA) is a non-profit state-wide organization. Any active or retired state employees or educators are welcomed for membership. The purpose of GSRA is to advocate for the entire state government community regarding pension benefits and health care rights and access. The GSRA provides education on these, and related issues to GSRA members as well as appointed and elected government officials.

The Northeast Metro Chapter serves GSRA members in Gwinnett and adjoining counties. For 2017 the NE Metro Chapter is planning several events: 1. A chapter-wide business meeting in the Fall 2. A night with the Gwinnett Braves in May 3. A breakfast with legislators in April For more information about GSRA and the NE Metro Chapter please email Chapter President, Janet Blackmon, at blifinch95@outlook.com. You can also visit the GSRA website at www.MyGSRA.com.

PAGE 12

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The Village Corner German Restaurant & Bakery Gears Up for their Spring Events By: Heidi Campbell Apple strudel, Black Forest cake, inhouse brewed beers, freshly baked bread, schnitzel, giant pretzels, and delicious weekly specials are just a few of the popular menu items that keep patrons coming back to Stone Mountain’s Village Corner German Restaurant and Bakery. The restaurant, serving all three meals every Tuesday through Sunday (with a special brunch on Sundays), is truly a family-run business. Hilde and Claus Friese have passed the torch to their son, Carl Friese, who is a graduate of Johnson & Wales Culinary school.

“My mom still comes in and does the finishing on the wedding cakes,” says Carl, “but she and my dad are enjoying their retirement.”

The Village Corner’s dinner menu offers a host of traditional German fare, priced from $10.00$21.00, including bratwursts and other sausages, quiches, roulade, and several seafood and vegetarian options. Their breakfast menu offers everything from German pancakes to omelets, while their lunch menu includes soups, Reubens, hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads. “We always have weekly specials,” says Friese. “We listen to our regulars when we plan those specials. We always include new appetizers and entrees. These specials are great because it gives me the chance to get creative!”

The restaurant also boasts a brewery, consisting of four brewing tanks located behind the bar in the tavern. Friese brews six beers, including a pilsner, a Doppelbock, and a Hefeweizen, and a cider.

“We are designated a brew pub, which means we can serve in-house. I’m still working on growlers, and hope to know something in the next few months since the laws have recently changed; but for now, we offer steins and flights,” explains Friese. “I’m looking forward to some new flavors for the summer, including a peach cider and a new IPA. People really like our seasonal selections and pilsners.”

The restaurant, voted “Best of Atlanta” numerous times over the years, is committed to the local community. Along with participation in the “Taste of Stone Mountain” each March, they also work to support the Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC). At Christmas, they donated some of the proceeds from the sale of their popular gingerbread men to FODAC. On top of that, they did a raffle for a giant gingerbread house, and donated all proceeds from the raffle to this worthy cause.

The restaurant has an event space for parties and other celebrations, and they have several special events coming up in the spring, including brunches for Easter and Mother’s Day. The Mother’s Day brunch will include bottomless mimosas and a live violinist and cellist. They also look forward to their yearly June event, usually around Father’s Day, which is an evening of Jazz Under the Stars. Friese says that they set up an outside stage to welcome Andrew Fazakerly – the pianist at the Fox and lead pianist at Corpus Christi Catholic Church – and his ensemble.

“It is a great night,” says Friese. “We have tables set up outside, and we string lights. It is a night of wonderful live jazz. I look forward to it every year!”

More information at www.germanrestaurant.com.

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PAGE 13

Top 5 Novels to Escape Into on a Chilly Afternoon

By Heidi Campbell

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Book enthusiasts love to curl up on the couch, layered in fuzzy blankets, and disappear into the lives of intriguing characters and fictional plots. Although the spindly fingers of social media threaten to ravage pleasure reading, there are still hordes of people who will never give up on the world of fiction and reading for pleasure. Book clubs still thrive in our communities, and authors continue to sell millions of books. As a true book nerd, book club member, and twenty-three-year veteran high school English teacher, I find inner peace and relaxation in the pages of a good book. A good book has great power, for a reader comes away from the pages a changed person. My grandmother used to say, “Oatmeal is good for you! It sticks to your ribs.” A good book, then, is like oatmeal.

Here is a list of my top five contemporary novels to enjoy as the winter months persist. Every one of these books will stick with me forever.

A Fine Balance, by Rohinton Mistry, is, hands down, my all-time favorite novel, and one that I’ve gifted and had two different book clubs read. Set in India in 1975, it is 603 pages of literary genius. The character development and realism found on these pages has been compared by most critics to that of Charles Dickens. The story of Om, Ishwar, Maneck, and Dina is one that defines the caste system and its harsh permanence, while shining a fleeting light on a developing friendship – one that rises above the societal standard. The writing is real, and it is not for those seeking a happy ending. This is one that makes a reader truly grateful for freedom, safety, and the pursuit of dreams; and heartbroken for injustice, hatred, and poverty, the likes of which most Americans will never understand.

The State of Wonder, by Ann Patchett, is the perfect title for this imagery-filled, brilliant novel in which readers are wholly struck by wonder until the last page. Scenes from this novel are unforgettable, including a terrifying battle with an anaconda and a fertility ritual involving the Lakashi women and a “special” tree. Set deep in the forests of the Amazon, the story blends the demands of the pharmaceutical world with the passion for science and discovery. With suspenseful twists and turns, deadly insects and snakes, and a culture of cannibalism and mystique, the story is at once shocking, thought-provoking, and heart breaking.

The Art of Hearing Heartbeats by Jan-Philipp Sendker is a story that manages to make even the most skeptical reader believe in a bit of kismet. The storytelling in this novel, as well as in its sequel, A Well-Tempered Heart, are reminiscent of Hans Christian Anderson’s classics that have captured readers for centuries. The story begins with the disappearance of a top-notch New York lawyer. When his daughter, Julia, uncovers a hidden letter from his past, she sets out on a journey to find him in Southeast Asia. U Ba, an endearing elderly Burmese man, weaves a backstory of loss, love, survival, human connection, and passion that astounds both Julia and the reader. This is a mesmerizing story that can be read over and over.

The Lonely Polygamist, by Brady Udall, is an engaging novel which I mistakenly read as a memoir and only realized near the end that it was fiction. Readers should be warned that this is a wild, often unsavory ride. Udall’s style refuses to sugarcoat anything, which is also clear from another of his novels, The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint. The main character, Golden, is a tormented, worn-out polygamist who must juggle four wives, twenty-eight children, a girlfriend, religion, and his career.

With a mix of both humor and heartbreak, Udall reveals human weakness and triumph in just over 600 remarkable pages.

The Orphan Master’s Son, by Adam Johnson, was the 2013 Pulitzer Prize winner for Fiction, and there is no doubt that it was deserving of such an honor. The book is set in North Korea, a land that most Americans know very little about. The story, rich in realism and imagery, takes the reader on a journey with Jun Do, a man who will do unthinkable things to survive. The reader steps into a life governed by unfairness, where humans lack humanity and people live in perpetual fear; certainly not a sought-after existence. The insight into a country of such governance is both terrifying and insightful. This is a very tough, traumatic, yet important read.

Look for additional Top 5 Book Recommendations in future issues of Our Town, including “Top 5 Authors,” “Top 5 Memoirs,” “Top 5 Humor,” and more.

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Getting Schooled: Tonya Burnley, Principal of Gwin Oaks Elementary

By Karla Socci Somers Dr. Tonya Burnley, principal of Gwin Oaks Elementary School in Lawrenceville, truly considers herself one of the locals because of her ties to the community in which she lives and works. She grew up in Snellville, met her husband in high school when they worked together at a local restaurant, and is happy to be raising her own family not far from her old neck of the woods.

Burnley believes that her close ties to the community, and living and working in the same neighborhood as many of her students, gives her a hometown advantage as principal of the elementary school that her son Evan attended. Burnley’s son and daughter, now sixth and eighth graders, have always been part of the Brookwood cluster. She says that parents of school children view her as “one of them.” They share the mentality of “wanting the best for my child who is sitting next to your child,” Burnley says. It helps her both personally and professionally to have a vested interest in the community and the Brookwood cluster schools.

“I live in the same neighborhood as my students,” Burnley says. “We all shop at the same Kroger.

I run into the kids everywhere I go.” She says some educators enjoy living in a different area from where they work, but Burnley says she prefers the opposite. “There is a level of trust,” she says, because they are all part of the same community. “I have the best of both worlds,” Burnley says of her career and family life. She likes having the opportunity to shape the lives of her own children while doing what she loves for other kids as well.

“There are so many opportunities right here,” Burnley says about making a difference for her family as well as enriching the community as a whole. In fact, Burnley was involved in coordinating Gwinnett County school participation in this year’s Run the Reagan Road Race. Every school in Gwinnett County was invited to coordinate a running team for the popular annual race, which took place on February 25th. Burnley proudly notes that all the schools in the Brookwood cluster Continued on page 20

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One on One: Georgia State Retirees Association

By Daidra Annis

At the Conservative Spine & Joint Center we strive to provide a conservative, comprehensive program to help you with all musculoskeletal problems including: -back and neck pain -joint pain -muscles -pinch nerves -tendons and nerve problems -numbness on hands and legs *Se habla español

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“Our goal is to help you minimize pain and the need for chronic pain medications, avoid unnecessary surgeries, increase your function and improve your quality of life.”

State of Georgia retirees are glad to have an advocate in the Georgia State Retirees Association (GSRA).

The organization is focused on keeping retirees informed about any impacts to their promised benefits, specifically in regards to health insurance. The statewide GSRA organization is celebrating its ten year anniversary this year. Local chapters began eight years ago with the goal of amplifying and supporting state goals among local members.

The bulk of the membership of the NE Metro Chapter is made up of Gwinnett County residents and the neighboring counties of Barrow, Hall, Jackson, and Walton. A $20 annual fee includes membership in both the state and local chapter and, to make it easy, the membership fee can even be deducted from state retirement checks for just $1.66 per month. Anyone who qualifies for a state insurance program or a retirement plan is welcome to be a member of GSRA, including educators, who also have their own separate retirement group. Word of mouth referrals are the primary way that GSRA gets the word out to potential members. At Open Enrollment time, they host an informational table and offer state-sponsored seminars to those who are about to retire.

The NE Metro Chapter hosts two chapter-wide meetings per year that take place in the spring and fall, and then every month, a smaller working group meets. Guest speakers include members from the Gwinnett County Police Department, who have taken on local issues like neighborhood crime and personal safety. Another guest, a Secret Service agent, explained cyber security and ways to combat online fraud.

Members of the NE Metro Chapter work hard to be good community partners. They love to support local businesses, and have even compiled a list of those businesses that offer discounts to retirees.

A number of members are also active in church and community projects, and some volunteer their time to support the Gwinnett Animal Shelter, the Southeastern Railway Museum, and Saint John Neumann Catholic Church, among others.

Continued on page 20

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ANN-CAROL PENCE (Associate Producer/Co-Founder) arranged the music for Aurora’s first Christmas Canteen in 1996 and was hired full-time in September of 1998 as Resident Musical Director. An education major at James Madison University, S E Rshe V I C E & R E P A I R she used her background to develop Learning Library (or L2). As a musician, created Aurora’s Musicals by Moonlight, and Aurora’s New Musical Initiative. She Taz Butler has performed as pianist and/or music director both nationally (Goodspeed Opera Owner House, Pasadena Playhouse, The Cleveland Playhouse, The Kennedy Center) and locally (The Alliance, Theatrical Outfit, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, The Horizon).

(Text) As a proud citizen of Gwinnett, Ann-Carol is most proud of Aurora Theatre winning the first ever Pinnacle Award for Large Non-Profit. This goes well with her 4 Licensed & Insured No Job Too Small Suzi Awards for Outstanding Music Direction for Mary Poppins and Les Misérables, More Than Meets the Eye in Eye Care Aurora’s world premiere of Clyde ’n Bonnie: A Folktale, and A Catered Affair and her multiple nominations forMountain In the Heights, Memphis, Dr. Thomas Mahon, View Eye A Year with Frog & Toad, Annie Get Your Gun, Godspell, Singin’ in the Rain and A Chorus Line. She is a participant Associates in this year’s Atlanta Regional Leadership Institute.

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D.H. MALCOLM, III (General Manager) joined Aurora Theatre part-time in 2007 as bookkeeper business manager for new facility. Now in charge of Dr. the Thomas Mahon, Optometrist,and currently serves his patients’ eye care needs at histhe MountainView Eye Associates office in Snellville, Georgia.

While a recent interview with Dr. Mahon revealed a day-to-day operations, D.H. manages the Aurora Theatre budget, spearheads highly professional office environment and staff, his commitment to family was definitely the theme development and provides the theatre with sound business advice.

His background of his conversation.

Currently Dr. Mahon and his wife, family physician Dr. Lan Mahon, share the medical office includes graduating from Marist School, obtaining a BS from Duke University and building that they built together. When their daughter, Sophie, was a small child, the couple decided later MBA from Georgia University.

D.H.practices. has extensive management the shared an work space would be the best way to meshState their family lives with their medical Sophie is now pursuing a nursing career at the University of South Carolina. experience in both entrepreneurial and large businesses. He serves on the board Family lunch has long been valued by both Drs. Mahon. Their offices are closed while the couple oftypically the Downtown Development Authority of Lawrenceville. In his other has spent this time catching up on life. Accordingly, Dr. Mahonof gavethe creditCity to his exceptional office staff for their care of his patients, doing whatever was best for each person, as well as life, he is an avid golfer and a professional club fitter for Callaway Golf. D.H. has two being attentive in order to maintain the high priority of daily family time. wonderful children, In many ways, Dr. Mahon has Katie followed and in the Cam footsteps of his father, pediatrician Dr. Tom

Mahon, Sr., by sharing his father’s passion for serving and caring for people. The well-known and JUSTIN ANDERSON has been based in the metrobeloved Snellville pediatrician retired in (Associate 2010 after thirty-sixArtistic years of caringDirector) for thousands of children and their parents.

Atlanta area since 2009 and full-time with Aurora since January 2014. Artistic asDr. Mahon stated, “His standards set mine high and hard wired me to want to do my very best include Theatrical Outfit, Theatre, insociations taking care of my patients with a genuine concern for theirSynchronicity well-being.” He recalled his father’s and Serenbe Playhouse. attention to detail, late night emergencies, and early hospital rounds, with people always being top While studying directing at Rutgers University, Justin had the privilege to work priority. “Rarely a day goes by that I don’t encounter at least one person from a family that was cared with Amy Saltz, Pamela Berlin, William Carden, and Deborah Headwall. He holds for by my father and sings his praises,” he said.

Mainstreetfirearms@gmail.com Dr. Mahon had a strong affinity for the sciences, particularly biology, together aGrowing BA inup,Theatre Arts from Campbell University andandan MA in Theatre Studies from with the family value and priority of caring for others, he pursued optometry. “Eye care is very Mainstreetgunsandrange.com Regent University.

His work has been seen at regional theatres in the Southeast rewarding in that you can potentially make such a difference for someone in everyday life by protecting or enhancing their vision,” he stated. including Actor's Express, Aurora Theatre, Dad's Garage Theatre Company, FantasticFlorida Firearm Training Classes Available The value of family has obviously played a major role in the development of MountainView Eye Repertory Theatre, Horizon Theatre Company, Serenbe Playhouse, Stage Door Associates. In response to the question, “How do you pay it forward?” Dr. Mahon mentioned one Mainstreet Guns & Range Continued on page 18

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PAGE 18

Crane’s Corner: Political Insights from Bill Crane

By Bill Crane During 2016, 140 law enforcement officers lost their lives in the line of duty. Local law enforcement accounted for 106 of those deaths, followed by state officers (19), federal (6), and the remaining 9 divided among college, territory, and transit system offices.

Despite leaving home and placing their lives potentially on the line every day, a POST-certified law enforcement professional in Georgia has no statewide mandatory minimum salary. Thanks to the leadership of Governor Nathan Deal, Georgia’s State Patrol, GBI, Crime Lab, Corrections Officers, and other state law enforcement have recently received a compensation adjustment of 20 percent. A starting Georgia State Patrol Trooper, after completing basic training, will earn $46,422 per year.

But for your local deputy sheriff or police officer, there is no set minimum. The average starting pay for a deputy sheriff is $29,900, and for the average starting jailer, $25,300. The much touted $15.00 an hour minimum wage for fast food workers produces an annual salary of $31,200.00. When it comes to law enforcement compensation, the Georgia average is lower than Alabama, the Carolinas, Florida, and Tennessee. The current overall average compensation for Georgia law enforcement is 36% below the national average.

It’s LONG past time to change that. Taxpayer dollars and other resources aren’t unlimited, but as public safety is a primary responsibility of local government, as well as a high priority for citizens, here are some ways to back our men and women in brown and blue: Mandated minimum salary - To prevent brain drain and the brightest and best jumping ship to become state law enforcement, there should be pay parity among law enforcement agencies as we have between the branches of our military service.

An L-SPLOST for funding local law enforcement - As there are E-SPLOST for local education, T-SPLOST for transportation funding – and a variety of other vehicles such as parks, libraries and government buildings – are funded by the Special Purpose Local Option Sale Tax. A statewide penny or fraction of the same can be framed as an L-SPLOST for voter approval, with all proceeds funding law enforcement salaries and/or benefits for local law enforcement personnel.

State Income Tax Credit – Create a state income tax credit of $2,500 for jailers, corrections officers, juvenile detention officers, and others earning less than $40,000.00 per year from their primary agency.

Minimum Salary for Georgia’s Sheriffs - Sheriffs are constitutional officers and the chief law enforcement officer in each of Georgia’s 159 counties. Their salaries are set by statute and a funding formula based on population, but it has been many years since the last compensation adjustment.

The budgets of each Office of Sheriff are determined by their respective county commission.

In metro and rural areas alike, Georgia sheriffs are being hard pressed to find new recruits to train and swear into office, as the costs of being a sheriff or deputy, or wearing a badge, just keep getting higher by the day.

Of those 140 officers killed during 2016, sixty-five died as a result of gunfire, an increase of 69% over 2015. During November and December of 2016, nine officers were shot in Georgia, most of them not in major metro areas. Five of those officers died. Georgia ended the year ranking 4th in line of duty deaths. This is not one of the Top Ten lists we want to be on. Finding and keeping good talent at existing compensation levels becomes more challenging each day. Let’s change these metrics, or we’ll be watching those statistics head in a much scarier direction in no time.

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

Mountain View Eye Associates Continued from page 17 of his favorite charities, Samaritan’s Purse, as well as his commitment to his family’s local church.

He has also participated in giving free eye exams and vision screenings within the community.

Additionally, the MountainView staff has consistently maintained a sensitivity to patients who may be facing financial hardship.

While the Drs. Mahon team has not yet served on a medical mission’s trip, Dr. Mahon indicated they might add that to their bucket list. Recently empty nesters, the couple plans to travel more, including some hiking and kayaking, but they still value time with several beloved nephews and nieces, as well as their two labradoodles.

With Dr. Thomas Mahon, there’s much more to him and MountainView Eye Associates than meets the eye -- there’s a lot of heart!

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

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Killian Hill Dental Care

Dr. Richard P. Gangwisch, D.D.S, M.A.G.D., A.B.G.D. Board Certified General Dentist Dr. John D. Hulsey, D.M.D.

G

Cosmetic Dentistry Sedation Dentistry (Oral & IV) Crowns and Bridges Dental Implants Root Canal Treatment Gum Treatment Full Mouth Reconstruction Oral Surgery Dentures Orthodontics Invisible Braces/InvisalignÂŽ Teeth Whitening

(770)923-3966

Our Town

Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

$100 OFF

Any Dental Service For Every Family Member (for new patients only) Financing Available 912 Killian Hill Rd., Suite 100, Lilburn, GA 30047

www.killianhilldentalcare.com

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 19

What is a Physiatrist?

Georgia State Retirees Association Continued from page 16

By Ruben Diaz, MD

But it’s not all “business” with the GSRA. They know how to have fun, too! Each baseball season the group hosts GSRA Night with the Gwinnett Braves. Last year, approximately 100 attended, and plans are already made for this years’ outing. Once a year, the group heads downtown for GSRA Day at the state capitol to meet elected state officials. Most recently, on February 1st, the seventy-five participants had the good fortune of being there the same day that the State Retirement Committee meeting took place. Former chapter president Mike Murdock said it was such a unique experience for them to be able to attend the committee meeting in person. The GSRA publishes a monthly newsletter and hosts an active Facebook page to keep members and the public informed.

More information at mygsra.com

Physiatrists, or rehabilitation physicians, are spine, joint, nerve, muscle, and bone experts who treat injuries or illnesses that affect how you move and function. Rehabilitation physicians are medical doctors who have completed training in the medical specialty of physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R). Specifically, they diagnose and treat pain, restore maximum function lost through injury, illness or disabling conditions, treat the whole person, not just the problem area, lead a team of medical professionals, provide non-surgical treatments, and explain your medical problems and treatment/prevention plan.

The job of a rehabilitation physician is to treat any disability resulting from disease or injury, from sore shoulders to spinal cord injuries. The focus is on the development of a comprehensive program for putting the pieces of a person’s life back together after injury or disease – without surgery.

Rehabilitation physicians take the time needed to accurately pinpoint the source of an ailment.

They then design a treatment plan that targets specifically the problem or problems that might be affecting the patient. By providing an appropriate treatment plan, rehabilitation physicians help patients stay as active as possible at any age. Their broad medical expertise allows them to treat disabling conditions throughout a person’s lifetime.

The goals of Dr. Diaz’ clinic are to maximize non-surgical management to help patients increase function, decrease pain, decrease the need for chronic strong opiate medications, decrease unnecessary surgeries, and improve quality of life.

More information at www.conservativespine.com

Tonya Burnley Continued from page 15 had a running team that signed up for the race. As an incentive, each school received five dollars for every runner who participated. Gwin Oaks donated the money from their running team back to their P.E. department.

Gwin Oaks is hosting a huge community STEAM Night on March 23rd, where each child will attend three hands-on sessions to learn about different professions in the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics. Professional veterinarians, printers, engineers, doctors, scientists, and team members from the CDC will be donating their time and talent to the elementary school kids. “It’s a career/interactive event,” Burnley says enthusiastically, with hometown pride in her voice.

More information at http://www.gwinoakselementary.com/goes

One Man’s Heart Continued from page 7 Human beings are inherently caring, and the love we have felt will be love we give to others in need. I thank you all for letting me be transparent and allowing me to share this story. The Fire Chief said, “Sir, it is amazing you are standing here – with your family. You are so fortunate.” My take on this is that there must be more I am supposed to do – and more people to help – in this short time we have on earth.

I am so honored to be in your community and to be your neighbor and friend. Thank you for proving to me (once again) that this is Our Town. And, a community built on love and truly united in nature.

God Bless and thank you ALL, as we continue the story of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

Grand Opening Celebration March 18, 2017 Timing of Events: Dekalb Police Car 10am-12pm

Spider Man Meet And Greet

Discover How Much Fun A Haircut Can Be! Fun for Kids, Stress Free for Parents

(reg. $17.95) March 18, 2017 ONLY Cannot be combined with any other coupon or offer.

Elsa Meet And Greet 1pm- 3pm

Firetruck 2pm-4pm

from 1:30pm-3:30pm

Update of the events will be posted on our Facebook page.

PAGE 20

$9.95 KidsCuts

11am-1pm

Free Face Painting

By Popadoodle

where haircuts are Fun for Kids, Stress Free for Parents

678-395-7428

4316 Lawrenceville Highway • Tucker (Between Starbucks & Walgreens)

Appointments Available / Walk-ins Welcome Book Online: www.HaircutsAreFun.com

“Like” us at www.facebook.com/CookieCuttersTucker

We will raffle off 2 kids bikes (1 boys and 1 girls)

To enter the child must get a haircut, drawing and winner will be announced on FB on Sunday March 19th

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Vecoma at Yellow River Continued from page 5 looking for a reception-style buffet.

Customers have the option to bring their own cakes, photographers, ministers, flowers, and music. “We have great recommendations for bakeries, and our in-house DJ Kirk Moten does a great job at a great price,” explains Caroline. “I’m the in-house photographer. I started doing the photos because I know exactly where all the picture-perfect spots are. There is no obligation to use me, but I offer great quality at a great price!”

Indeed the sample wedding albums and photos that are on display showcase the absolute magic of a Vecoma event: beautiful surroundings, complete joy, and vibrant colors. Caroline truly loves the work that she does. She says, “Every weekend is a heartwarming experience! After planning these events for months, I get to see these brides in their Caroline Tucker and her mother, Judith Warren wedding gowns and take the photos of a lifetime! I get to watch families reuniting for exciting events.

I get to hear the toasts to the bride and groom. Weddings bring people together, and I love being a part of that!”

Although weddings are the most popular events held at Vecoma, they have numerous other events throughout the year. They host company Christmas parties, corporate summer picnics, rehearsal dinners, and wedding anniversaries. They can use their space and property for any occasion. “This past year, we had a one-year-old birthday party,” shares Caroline. “It was a wonderful event! We had lots of guests, balloons, face painters, and a DJ. We even had a petting zoo!”

When visitors come to Vecoma at the Yellow River, they are truly wowed by its beauty. It is no wonder that they have more 5 star reviews and more awards than any other venue in this state. “We give the best value for a wedding in the Atlanta area. We’ve gotten reviews and awards online because of our great value,” Caroline says with a warm smile. “People who use us have a gorgeous wedding without spending an arm and leg!”

More information at http://vecoma1.com

As one of the South’s leading therapeutic massage clinics, Body of Health has had the privilege of serving Snellville and the greater Gwinnett County area for over six years! Our certified, experienced therapists use the most advanced massage techniques to help our clients heal quicker, hurt less, and have a better quality of life!

Now, in an effort to meet the growing health needs of our community, we are proud to announce the opening of The Lymph Clinic - the area’s only private, full service lymphedema care facility. TLC’s Occupational Therapist, Kim Mainer, offers a range of supportive treatments to include complex decongestive therapy (CDT), garment fitting, and continuation of care counseling.

TLC Now Accepting Insurance

Four Agents - One Team One Goal 100% Customer Satisfaction • Sold 90% of properties listed in 2016

• Avg. Sale to List Price Ratio: 97.42%

• Top 1% of Gwinnett County Realtors

• 122 Closed Transactions in 2016

We utilize the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to exceed your expectations. More importantly, we listen and that means we find solutions that are tailored to you. Call me or visit my website to learn more about how my team can help you with your real estate needs. We appreciate the opportunity to earn your business!

Ne

l Therapeutic Massage l Oncology Massage l Sports Massage l Neuromuscular Release l Myofascial Release l Lymph Drainage Therapy l CranioSacral Therapy l Reflexology l Plastic Surgery Recovery l Joint Replacement Recovery l Kinesiology Taping l Garment Fitting l Lymphedema Treatments

Call for your Appointment today 678-344-0050 Our Town

ation c o wL

Body of Health and Life

New London Professional Center 2321 Henry Clower Blvd, Suite A Snellville, GA 30078

Save the Date!

Open House and Ribbon Cutting May 4th • 4:00PM – 8:00PM

All are welcome to come see our new facility and meet our awesome staff.

Food/ Drinks/ Vendors andRibbon Cutting Celebration

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 21

Character Counts: Up Close with NG3 and Brookwood High School

By Lawson Hale www.mypedsortho.com

www.nextlevelsportsmed.com

404-321-9900 22 Highly-Trained Providers Specializing in Pediatric Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

14 Locations Including:

Duluth

PAGE 22

Lawrenceville

Snellville

Will Banfield is a catcher at Brookwood High School. He’s a junior and has made a commitment to play baseball at Vanderbilt University. Will is a wonderful student and an overall pleasure to be around. He loves to serve the community whenever he can, and regularly attends our huddles. He constantly lives out, “Do what you say, Serve others, and Bring change.”

Lawson Hale (LH): How has NG3 impacted you so far?

Will Banfield (WB): NG3 has impacted me in many ways, but most importantly, it has taught me how to serve my community.

My community has given so much to me over the years, and it has helped me to stay focused spiritually through tough times. I have a lot of great memories of fellowship and service with NG3 over the years, but if I had to choose one, I think my favorite memory would be going to meet and hang out with everyone at the Miracle League.

I feel like that experience changed my life in so many ways. Not only was I blessed to meet some incredible people, but also it taught me how to be grateful for my abilities as an athlete and not to take simple things for granted. I learned so much from the individuals that I met, and they became real life heroes to me. That experience, and the lessons it taught me, is something that I will carry with me forever.

LH: As a busy student athlete, why do you decide to spend some of your time with NG3?

WB: I choose to be a part of NG3 and make it a priority even though my schedule is hectic because I realize the importance of it. My mentors have taught me so many things over the years. It has become an important part of my growth as a person and student athlete.

LH: What does NG3 mean to you?

WB: I feel extremely blessed to be a part of NG3 and to have it in my life. It has taught me an abundance of lessons, and knowing that I have someone like Coach Lawson available to me when I need someone to talk to or get advice from is something I will always be grateful for.

More information at http://ng3.org/

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

The Village Corner

German Restaurant, Bakery & Tavern We are a full-service bakery, restaurant, and tavern specializing in German cuisine.

St. Patrick’s Day Specials 6655 James B Rivers Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30083

(770) 498-0329

all weekend long Hours Of Operation: Tuesday - Friday 9am-10pm Saturday 8am-11pm Sunday 10am-9pm Closed Monday

Corned beef and cabbage Leg of Lamb Sheppard’s Pie

Don’t get sidelined by an injury.

Whether you’re an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, every day you spend dealing with pain or injury means less time spent doing what you love.

A movement screening with a licensed physical therapist at BenchMark can identify possible risk factors for injury and help you address them before they become a problem.

Call your local BenchMark today to set up an evaluation.

BUFORD I-85 • 2815 Buford Dr, Ste 102 • Buford, GA 30519 • (770) 271-4413 GRAYSON • 2065 Grayson Hwy, Ste B • Grayson, GA 30017 • (678) 376-0213 LAWRENCEVILLE • 455 Philip Blvd, Ste 160 • Lawrenceville, GA 30046 • (678) 985-0238 LILBURN • 1227 Rockbridge Rd, Ste 402 • Stone Mountain, GA 30087 • (770) 925-9210 SNELLVILLE • 2050 Scenic Hwy N, Ste A • Snellville, GA 30078 • (678) 344-7197

Our Town

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 23

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