Community & Family Magazine Up Close with Cumberland Counseling Centers, see story on page 5.
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On the Cover: Catching up with Cumberland Counseling Centers
By Kristen Eleveld
When it comes to mental and emotional health, accessibility is key. That’s why Cumberland Counseling Centers, already a staple of the mental health community in Gwinnett, is working to not only make counseling services available to more people, but to every person in any stage of their mental health journey.
Cumberland Counseling Centers has always operated as a non-profit, working to give their clients of all financial means the ability to receive therapy. And this year they have expanded that idea even further through their merger with Foundation Counseling: a coming together as two entities— nonprofit and for-profit—yet fully united in mission, culture, and leadership.
The owners of each of these counseling centers—Phil Zaffo, who owns Foundation Counseling, and Alexandra Thompson, who owns Cumberland Counseling Centers— have a similar goal: to make therapy accessible and available to anyone in need.
Clients of Foundation Counseling and Cumberland Counseling Centers will have a lot of options. They can use their health insurance, if available; they can opt for a private pay rate; or they can make use of the sliding scale option offered by Cumberland to allow each client to pay for a session they can truly afford.
“Everyone deserves the same level of high quality health care,” said Alexandra. “A lot of work goes into a therapy center being able to use health insurance, so merging with Foundation Counseling so we have the manpower to handle all the administrative work that comes with accepting insurance with excellence has been huge.”
Of course, the team at Cumberland Counseling Centers is no stranger to taking big steps to make an even bigger difference. For years, they have partnered
with faith communities across Georgia to help set up counseling services for their community. In just three to four weeks, Alexandra and her team can help a church go from no counseling services to a fully functioning clinic. And while they have already expanded to five locations across metro-Atlanta, Alexandra wants to make sure that the Gwinnett community knows they have a lot of options right in their own backyard.
“It’s unlike any other nonprofit counseling center across the country,” said Alexandra. “We want to link arms with other faith communities and lead them through the process of making mental health services available.”
Each of the five—soon to be more—counseling centers in Georgia has one thing in common: they are intentional about finding diverse providers who can
Continued on page 11
Christmas
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 2025 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
Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com
Editor
Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com
Cover
Kristen Eleveld
IN THIS ISSUE
5 On the Cover: Catching up with Cumberland Counseling Centers
7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
7 Thanksgiving Tips: How to Practice Gratitude
8 Holiday Matters: Make Your Holidays Stress-Free
9 Pet Perch: Turkey and Pie…Oh My!!
9 Connection…A Word for Your Day
9 Health Matters: Older Adults Should Protect Their Health This Fall
10 Finding Light When It Gets Dark Early
10 The Season of Simple Joys: Slowing Down to Savor What Matters Most
11 Holiday Wanderlust: Five Festive Getaways Near Gwinnett
13 Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia, Inc.
14 Lanier Islands Resort: Kicks Off the Season of Giving Back
15 One Man’s Opinion: The Difficulty of Saying Goodbye
Jane Bishop
Bill Crane
Jenny Reesman
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
Hello, Our Town Community. Can you believe we are in November? Wow, it seems not long ago that I was writing about the beginning of 2025. Time flies, and we must be grateful for each moment. November is a great time to reflect upon our journey, express gratitude for the blessings surrounding us, and draw inspiration from the unwavering spirit of our community.
In this season of change, I encourage us to take a moment to count our blessings, no matter how small they may seem. Gratitude is a powerful force that can transform our lives. When we focus on the positive aspects of our existence, we build resilience and find strength in the face of challenges. Our community has shown remarkable resilience over the past few years, which we should all be proud of. We have faced unprecedented times with courage and determination, supporting one another through thick and thin. Let us carry this spirit forward into the coming months, standing together, shoulder to shoulder, as we continue to grow and thrive.
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop lower, remember that each day is an opportunity for growth and positive change. This is the time of year to set new goals and aspirations, whether big or small. It’s the perfect moment to take that step you’ve been putting off, to start that project you’ve been dreaming about, or to strengthen the bonds with your neighbors and friends.
As we learned during the pandemic, we can adapt, innovate, and support one another in times of need. The Our Town community exemplifies the strength and determination that lies within each of us. Let’s carry this energy into the months ahead, embracing challenges with open hearts and minds.
The holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s a time when we can
Continued on page 11
Thanksgiving Tips: How to Practice Gratitude
By Tana Poncsak
There’s a lot of chatter about how being thankful and practicing gratitude can help one live a healthier and a happier life. We hear about it in inspirational quotes on social media, discussed on podcasts, and we even read about it in various articles in magazines and on the web.
It’s November and the month of Thanksgiving, and while many will be reminded to give thanks as a result of the holiday, let’s look at some ways we can practice gratitude all year.
• Take a look at your values and how you spend your time. Perhaps those values have shifted along the way. Think about the things you value most and why you value them. Are you missing some special people in your life? Perhaps you need more time to yourself. Whatever it may be, time to yourself or more time for the special people in your life, think about ways to spend more time on the things you value in your life.
• We’ve all heard it before, but it bears repeating. Stop comparing yourself to others. It’s easy to do, especially with social media 24 hours a day, but it’s counterproductive. You’re unique, so be thankful for your uniqueness and learn to lean into it.
• Keep a gratitude journal. You don’t have to write a page every day. A few
Continued on page 15
Holiday Matters: Make Your Holidays Stress-Free
By Tana Poncsak
As soon as the kids roam the neighborhood for candy on Halloween, many of us start thinking (and maybe obsessing) about the upcoming holidays. After all, there’s cooking to be done, presents to buy, and plans to be made all while still working and going about our daily lives. And while the holidays are supposed to be meaningful and fun, often they turn out to be tiring, disappointing, and stressful.
According to a December 2017 article in Medical News Today, some people can feel overwhelmed by the excess, expectations, and exchange and can become depressed during the holidays. The article goes on to say that a lack of time and money, credit card debt, and the pressure of gift giving can often contribute to stress during the holiday season.
As mentioned in this article and cited by many others as well, one of the main causes for holiday stress can be linked to our expectations. We watch the holiday movies and see images of the picture-perfect holidays, and that becomes what we strive for. Anything less misses the mark.
The answer can be as easy as keeping things simple and don’t over plan. But we all know that’s easier said than done. Here are a few things you can do to lower your expectations and keep things simple.
• Make a realistic list of the things you need to accomplish to make your holiday special and meaningful. This shouldn’t be a long list. Try to keep this list at three to six things. Then make a second list of the things you would like to accomplish but aren’t necessary to make your holiday complete.
• Try to simplify or delegate the things that need to be done to make the best use of your time. For example, you want to read the latest holiday novel, but you have no time. Try listening to the audio version while commuting to and from work. You may even be able to borrow it from the library for free using an app like Libby.
• Don’t like outdoor decorating? Delegate it to the professionals. Some local landscaping companies may offer outdoor decorating during the holidays.
• Don’t like to bake but need festive cookies? Leave the baking to your local bakery.
• Have company coming into town for the holidays, but no time to clean? There are a number of cleaning services in the area you can call.
• Need help wrapping? Hire a neighborhood teen to wrap your packages one afternoon.
• Short on time for cooking the holiday meal? Have it catered by a local restaurant. Or if that’s totally out of the question, try cooking some dishes using a pressure cooker or an air fryer and save the stove and the oven for dishes that need your extra attention.
• You get the idea. Be creative and ask for help!
• Don’t overwhelm yourself and your family with holiday activities. Pick a few that are manageable and let the others go. And even with the hustle and bustle of the season, remember to make self-care a priority.
• With gift giving, it’s the thought that counts. Don’t feel like you have to spend a small fortune. A small thoughtful gift or handmade gift can be just as personal and meaningful than an expensive one.
Continued on page 12
Pet Perch: Turkey and Pie…Oh My!!
By Dr. Jennifer Reesman, DVM
I can already smell the turkey in the oven and the cranberry sauce simmering on the stove, and I can feel the crisp fall air. Thanksgiving is around the corner, and the food festivities are about to commence! One of my dogs is probably already prepping his saddest looking face for a long day of begging grandma for a bite, and hoping that something, even just a tidbit, falls from the table.
When it comes to the holidays, there is the right and wrong way to give our pets a little something extra. First, if your pets are like some of mine, they are on a very strict diet for medical reasons. These pets cannot have anything outside their usual diet as it could cause these conditions to no longer be regulated. Second, if your pet is not used to table food, I would avoid it as no one wants to be cleaning up diarrhea, let alone with a house full of guests, or at the ER because of acute pancreatitis!
For my pets that do get a little something extra (yes, those begging eyes even work on me), my household follows some rules. First, pets do not get anything without asking the vet. Luckily for them, I live there. That said, please consult with your vet if you want to give your pet anything outside their usual diet. They know your pet! Second, it’s all lean and bland. We reserve a few potatoes before there are mixed with butter and milk, a small piece of white meat turkey without seasoning, and a few carrots before they are cooked in all the spices. Third, this counts as their meal. Those extra calories count, even on the holidays. Fourth, keep things out of reach. No one wants a reenactment of The Christmas Story scene where the dogs helps themselves to the turkey (I know, wrong holiday, but it sure makes me think of Thanksgiving)!
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and holiday season, and a safe and pancreatitis free one for your pets!
More information at https://www.brookwoodanimal.com/
Health Matters: Older Adults Should Protect Their Health This Fall
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
With cold and flu season upon us, it’s time to protect yourself from those seasonal threats and other health risks. “During the holidays, our lives get very busy with family and friends,” said Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare business. “Before then, please take time to ensure you get the preventive care you need to stay healthy.”
Preventive care is critical for everybody, but particularly for older adults, and especially in fall when risks can increase. Recommendations vary based on age, gender, and health status, but the following are some Sobel says are the most common for seniors.
Connection…A Word for Your Day
By Jane Bishop
Many activities revolve around the concept of “connection,” including connectthe-dots, jigsaw puzzles, and games like NYT Connections. While our world seems more linked than ever thanks to social media and instant messaging, many individuals still feel deeply isolated. Despite its frequent use as a buzzword, true connection is vital to our sense of well-being and purpose.
Connection in life is the invisible thread that binds us to one another, weaving our lives together through shared experiences, emotions, and understanding. At its core, connection is the bond formed when individuals choose to engage openly, genuinely, and compassionately. Whether with family, friends, colleagues, or strangers, connection provides the foundation for trust, support, and personal growth and is vital for all humanity. Genuine connection is not just about having a wide network; it is about forming authentic bonds that enrich our lives on a fundamental level.
Why are connections important? Research consistently shows that people with deep, meaningful relationships experience higher levels of happiness, resilience, and even physical health. Connection offers a safe space to be vulnerable, share our joys and struggles, and know we are not alone. Beyond emotional support, strong connections foster creativity, collaboration, and a sense of belonging. Connection can be the currency of a fulfilling life. From my perspective, the world could use more of that “currency.”
Each person has a unique connection factor which evolves around the specific qualities, strengths, and approaches they bring to their relationships. Your
Continued on page 12
Vaccinations: There are several vaccines older adults need to consider to protect themselves. For example, flu and pneumonia are among the most common causes of senior deaths. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to vaccination. Timing and frequency vary, depending on your health history. Ask your healthcare provider which vaccines are appropriate for you.
• Flu. This vaccine is administered annually, generally before the end of October, and is designed to match the latest circulating flu strains.
• Pneumonia. Administration varies based on health history. If you’re 65 or older and you’ve never had the vaccine before, you’ll likely need two shots administered a year apart.
• Shingles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine for healthy adults aged 50 and older, spaced two to six months apart, to prevent shingles and related complications.
• COVID-19. Ask your doctors about current recommendations for the prevention of COVID-19 infections.
• RSV. Earlier this year, the Federal Drug Administration approved two separate vaccines to address respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in older adults. RSV, a common respiratory infection, usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can be more severe in older adults and children. Talk to your doctor about whether you should get an RSV vaccine.
Health Screenings: The following health screenings are commonly recommended for older adults.
• Mammogram. According to the CDC, breast cancer is the second leading
cause of cancer death in women in the United States. Every woman is at risk, and risk increases with age. Fortunately, breast cancer can often be treated successfully when found early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends women 50 to 74 years old at average risk get a mammogram every two years.
• Colorectal screening. Colorectal cancer risk increases with age. Screenings can find precancerous polyps early, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. The USPSTF recommends colorectal cancer screening for adults age 45 to 75. Though colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test, there are other options you may consider with the help of your provider.
• Bone density scan. USPSTF recommends women aged 65 and older and women 60 and older at increased risk be routinely screened for osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become weak and brittle. Screening may facilitate treatment that helps prevent fractures.
• Eye exam. Routine eye exams can identify early signs of eye disease that are more likely as people age. People with diabetes, in particular, are prone to retinopathy, which leads to vision loss. It’s recommended that people with diabetes have annual retinal screenings.
• Mental health checkup. Many people experience seasonal depression during the fall. Mental health is strongly linked to physical health. Talk to your healthcare provider about your personal and family history. They can connect you with additional mental health resources.
To prevent unpleasant surprises, Sobel suggests talking with your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or insurer about preventive care costs. Fortunately, costs are often covered entirely by Medicare or Medicare Advantage.
Note: The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. (StatePoint)
Finding Light When It Gets Dark Early
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
It happens every year, yet it still feels like a surprise. One week, the evenings are long and golden, and the next, you’re glancing at your watch, wondering how it’s already dark before dinner. Daylight saving time ends, the clocks “fall back,” and our energy, sleep, and motivation all seem to wobble for a week or two.
But perhaps this seasonal change isn’t something to resist. Maybe it’s an invitation—a gentle prompt to slow down, reflect, and find new ways to bring light into our days, even as the sun sets a little earlier.
1. Slow the Pace—Let the Season Reset You.
When the world outside slows down, maybe we should, too. The early darkness can serve as a gentle reminder to pause and recharge. Instead of rushing through one task after another, take time to enjoy the small moments—dinner at the table, a meaningful conversation, or a cozy evening with a favorite movie or book. This season provides us with space to rest, reflect, and simply be.
2. Seek Out the Light.
We may lose the brightness of evening, but mornings offer a gentle glow worth appreciating. Step outside for a few minutes before your day begins. Breathe in the cool air, take a walk, or enjoy your first cup of coffee on the porch. Morning light can boost your mood and help keep your body clock in rhythm. And when evenings come early, create your own glow. Add warm lighting, candles, or soft string lights around your home. A little atmosphere can lift your spirits.
3. Create Comfort and Connection.
There’s something special about this time of year—sweaters, soups, blankets, and home-cooked meals. Make your home a haven that feels peaceful when you walk through the door. And don’t forget the people side of comfort. Invite neighbors for dinner, host a game night, or catch a high school football game under the lights. When we lean into togetherness, the shorter days somehow feel longer and fuller.
4. Keep Moving.
It’s tempting to hibernate once darkness falls, but staying active is one of the best ways to fight the early-dark blues. Take an evening walk, join a fitness class, or even turn on some music and dance around the living room. Movement
Continued on page 15
The Season of Simple Joys: Slowing Down to Savor What Matters Most
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
November has a way of reminding us to pause. The air turns crisp, the days grow shorter, and our schedules seem to fill up before we know it. Yet somewhere between Halloween candy and holiday lights, there’s a quiet invitation to slow down and focus on what truly matters.
This season isn’t just about shopping lists or travel plans. It’s about gratitude—about family dinners that stretch late into the evening, neighbors waving from across the yard, and laughter filling living rooms on chilly nights. It’s a time to notice the small things we often overlook—the sound of a child’s giggle, the aroma of something warm baking, and the peace that comes when we finally put our phones aside.
While much of the year is spent pursuing big moments—promotions, milestones, achievements—it’s often the smaller ones that leave the deepest impact.
A quiet walk, a handwritten note, or a simple conversation can bring more happiness than any to-do list ever could. Research consistently shows that gratitude enhances well-being, lowers stress, and strengthens relationships. Science is clear, but the core idea is simple: when we focus on what’s right in our lives, the noise around us diminishes.
Across and around Gwinnett, acts of kindness happen every day: the volunteer who rings the Salvation Army bell, the coach who mentors students after hours, the small business owner who donates to a local charity. These moments weave together the fabric of our community. Each small act of generosity ripples outward, inspiring others to do the same. This November, perhaps gratitude could become our community’s theme. Instead of asking, “What can I get done before the holidays?” we might ask, “Who can I lift up today?”
Here are a few small ways to celebrate the spirit of the season:
• Write a thank-you note. Showing appreciation never goes out of style.
• Give your time. Volunteer, mentor, or show up for someone who could use support.
• Make space for rest. Leave an evening open to unwind, take a walk, and enjoy the moment.
As we approach Thanksgiving and beyond, let’s remember that happiness doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from noticing more. This November, may we all choose peace over pressure, connection over chaos, and gratitude over the grind. Wishing you and your loved ones a season filled with simple joys and warm hearts.
Cumberland Counseling Centers
relate to circumstances specific to the clients they serve.
“We have a saying of our counseling practice,” said Alexandra, “that we want you to be able to peer inside our windows, so-to-speak, and see someone who looks like you. Someone who will understand your culture and ‘speak your language.’”
And Cumberland isn’t done growing. In addition to the new locations they expect to open in 2026, they are also embracing more of their technology options and have added a chat bot on their website to answer questions. Even more exciting is their clinician matching tool. This allows new patients to get on a provider’s calendar as soon as possible, instead of spending twenty minutes or more completing paperwork on a provider’s website before getting connected with your therapist.
“All we want is to support as many people as possible,” said Alexandra. “We are so excited for Gwinnett to let us get out there and serve you.”
More information at https://cumberlandcenters.org/, https://www.foundationcounselingcobb.com/, or (404) 884-8247
Ryan’s Remarks
Continued from page 7
come together to spread love and joy throughout our community. Whether through small acts of kindness or larger charitable endeavors, let us remember the importance of giving and sharing. As we enjoy the warmth of our homes and the love of our families, we should also consider those who may be less fortunate and find ways to extend a helping hand.
In the spirit of giving, let’s also appreciate and support the local businesses that contribute to our community’s uniqueness. They have faced their share of hardships, and your continued support means more to them than you can imagine. This November, make an extra effort to shop locally, dine at our community’s restaurants, and celebrate the incredible small businesses around us.
As we embrace November, remember that we are an unstoppable force when working together. We must UNITE (come together), not UNTIE (drift apart). The letters of each word are the same, but by making one change in their order, they mean entirely different things.
I hope you have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. One that is filled with some downtime and enjoyment of all we have to be thankful for. Finally, and as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!
Holiday Wanderlust: Five Festive Getaways Near Gwinnett
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Sometimes the best holiday gift isn’t wrapped up; it’s a change of scenery. Whether you’re craving a cozy cabin, a charming small town, or a quick day trip that feels like a world away, there are plenty of festive destinations within easy reach of Gwinnett.
Blue Ridge—Cozy Cabins and Mountain Magic: A Georgia favorite for good reason. The North Georgia Mountains come alive in December with twinkling lights, boutique shops, and stunning views. Enjoy a hot cocoa and stroll along Main Street, or take a ride on the Blue Ridge Scenic Railway for a Hallmark-movie-like afternoon. Cabins with fireplaces and mountain views fill up fast, so plan ahead—and don’t forget your flannel.
Dahlonega: Christmas in the Mountains. Known as one of Georgia’s most scenic small towns, Dahlonega turns into a winter wonderland each year. Its historic square lights up with thousands of bulbs, carriage rides, and live music during the town’s famous “Old-Fashioned Christmas” celebration. Visitors can enjoy local wineries, cozy bed-and-breakfasts, and a nostalgic holiday spirit that feels like it’s straight out of a storybook.
Helen—A Bavarian Wonderland: Every winter, Helen becomes Georgia’s own snow globe. With twinkling alpine architecture, carriage rides, and roasted nuts wafting through the streets, it’s as close to Europe as you can get without booking a flight. The Christkindlmarkt (traditional German holiday market) is a must-visit for handcrafted gifts and a mug of mulled wine.
Athens—Classic City Cheer: Just a short drive from Gwinnett, Athens still shines with holiday charm and small-town sophistication. Downtown streets glow with lights, and local restaurants and shops decorate their windows in classic red and gold. Catch the annual Downtown Parade of Lights, explore the gift boutiques along Clayton Street, or enjoy a cozy dinner near the historic UGA campus. It’s the perfect mix of holiday spirit, music, and that unmistak-
• Don’t compare your holiday to the holiday of others. The season is not meant to be a competition.
• Be more thankful for the things you accomplish instead of sad about the things that you don’t get to on your list. You can look forward to the ones you didn’t get to for next year.
• Always keep in mind the perfect holiday doesn’t exist. There are always things that are out of our control.
• If loved ones can’t make it to your holiday celebration, keep in mind the holidays are a relatively short period of time within a year, and there are another 300+ days in the year giving us plenty of other opportunities to spend time with loved ones. Plan something for later when the timing is better and everyone can be more relaxed.
At the end of the holiday, take some time to reflect. What went well? What didn’t go as well? Were there any surprises? And make notes for a head start on next year.
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Connection…A Word for Your Day
connection factor might be your ability to listen deeply, share openly, make others laugh, or offer thoughtful advice. Perhaps it’s your readiness to show up, your knack for remembering even the smallest details, or your genuine sense of empathy. Discover your connection factor by looking inward. Take time to notice how you feel and reflect on what makes you genuinely engaged with others. Think about the qualities that people value when they interact with you, as well as the moments when you feel fully present in your relationships. Each interaction leaves an imprint, so your connection factor is powerful. A kind word, a listening ear, and a shared laugh can brighten someone’s day. Impact is not measured by grand gestures, but by the effect of everyday moments where you choose to show up with authenticity and care. By valuing and tending your relationships, you not only enhance your own well-being but also contribute to a kinder, more connected world. I invite you to start today by reaching out, listening deeply, and sharing a piece of yourself—because every connection counts.
More information at www.janebishoplive.com.
Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia, Inc.
By Victoria R. Crosby
The Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia was founded in 1995 and are now celebrating their thirtieth anniversary. Kuumba is a Swahili word meaning creativity.
Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia’s Mission Statement is “To preserve the African oral tradition, provide awareness on the cultural history of African and African American people, and to serve as an educational resource for the community.”
They are an affiliate of the National Association of Black Storytellers.
This year they are co-hosting the 43rd Annual National Association of Black Storytellers Festival and Conference. For more information visit https://www. nabsinc.org/. At the festival, many Kuumba Storytellers and Regional Tellers will be featured.
I met Marsha Holden, who is a member of the group at a networking meeting. I wanted to learn more about Kuumba Storytellers as I write short stories myself. Many stories of the storytellers are from an African-American experience. However, all are welcome to join these groups; it’s not exclusively for African Americans.
About seven years ago at a Toastmasters meeting, of which Marsha was a member, she was introduced to Kuumba Storytellers by other members of this group. Marsha attended a meeting and was intrigued.
“I found so much talent there,” she said, “and was nervous at first about telling stories, but found I have a flair for humorous stories.”
Marsha has been membership co-chair and vice president over the years. She tells stories about her father who lived well into his nineties and who sounds like an interesting character. She uses a mix of history and personal stories about her family members, many of whom were entrepreneurs.
Most tell stories from the African oral tradition or about their own lives.
There is a time limit that varies, depending on the number of people attending; but it is usually a five-to-seven-minute range. The group meets on the second Saturday of the month.
Al Wiseman, a professional speaker and public speaking trainer who joined as a member of Kuumba Storytellers two years ago said, “I was greatly influential by professional Kuumba story tellers.”
Al mentioned a program of historic interpretations about people who are buried at Oakland Cemetery during the last two weekends of October. Participants are assigned to a resident buried there and are given a script to learn and portray the individual.
This is a program by Oakland Cemetery called Capturing the Spirit of Oakland and it is NOT a Kuumba program. However, some Kuumba Members do participate in this yearly.
Kuumba has its own program called Historical Black Portraits which happens every February during Black History Month.
Al Wiseman will tell the story of Victor Hugo Green, author of The Negro Motorist Green Book, although Victor Hugo Green is not buried at Oakland Cemetery.
The Academy Award-winning movie, The Green Book, was released in 2018 and was inspired by a true story about an African-American concert pianist, Don Shirley, and his Italian-American driver and bodyguard Frank Vallelongo, who used the Green Book, which was first published in 1936, to know which restaurants and hotels would welcome them and which to avoid while touring the South in 1962.
Chetter Galloway, the president of Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia, said, “I have been involved with Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia since I moved to Atlanta in 1997. I remember meeting in a colleague’s living room with only four people. Well now, we have over fifty active members including several out of state and one in another country. Now that I’m serving my second term as Continued on page 15
Lanier Islands Resort: Kicks Off the Season of Giving Back
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
After months of designing and weeks of setup, the seasonal vibe is positively electric at Lanier Islands Resort. With the return of Magical Nights of Lights in November, there is an undercurrent of gratitude from the team behind the lakeside destination. Inspired by the spirit of Thanksgiving, Lanier Islands Resort seeks to not only express its appreciation for the community that has supported it for decades, but also to provide opportunities for light watchers to give to those in need this holiday season. With donation drives for Georgia Mountain Food Bank and Toys for Tots, donors can receive the Islands’ thanks in the form of discounts on select nights throughout the Magical Nights of Lights Season (valued at $30). There will also be discount nights for active-duty military members, veterans, first responders, and educators on the resort’s event calendar.
“We launched our ‘Lanier Islands Resort Gives Back’ initiative this summer with our FREE Lakeside Concert Series, which featured three incredible outdoor concerts at our lakeside Peachtree Pointe Amphitheatre,” said Matthew Bowling, President of Lanier Islands Resort. “There was a charitable element to that, too, which resulted in the donation of more than 500 pounds of food to the Georgia Mountain Food Bank, translating to roughly 14,350 meals. During the holiday season, many of our neighbors need our help more than ever. There are more than 50,000 food-insecure people in the area served by the Georgia Mountain Food Bank, and we believe every child deserves the gift of a new toy on Christmas morning. That’s why, on select evenings during Magical Nights of Lights, we will say ‘thank you’ to anyone who brings three or more canned goods or new unwrapped toys by giving them a $10 discount on their holiday light tour admission, along with a voucher for $20 off one all-access band at Margaritaville’s License to Chill Snow Island. We’ll also extend that same discount on select nights for many of the true heroes in our community—our teachers, our military members, our veterans, and our first responders—as our thanks for the way they give back daily.”
Bowling also expressed his team’s gratitude for this year’s partners of Magical Nights of Lights 2025.
“After a five-year hiatus at the Islands,” he continued, “bringing Magical Nights of Lights back to our shores is an enormous undertaking. We are truly honored to have three Georgia powerhouses joining us on this journey. Our major event sponsors are The Coca-Cola Company and Georgia Power, with our friends at Star 94 serving as our partner radio station, powering the festive atmosphere and filling each vehicle with holiday cheer as they drive through our tour of lights.”
Given its standing as one of the Southeast’s leading destinations, the resort also has traditional Thanksgiving plans in store for its guests. On Thursday, November 27th, from noon to 6 p.m., Lanier Islands Resort will play host to a Thanksgiving buffet served in the Legacy Lodge Grand Ballroom. Designed by Food & Beverage Director Nishant Chaudhary and his team of chefs, the meal will feature a series of carving and action stations, alongside a sumptuous selection of salads, entrees, and sides. A child-friendly Kids Korner and Grand Dessert Display round out the offerings. As another way of giving back, the lakeside destination will waive the resort gate fee with a Thanksgiving buffet reservation.
At the heart of the holiday season at Lanier Islands Resort, the Magical Nights of Lights will run nightly from mid-November to early January, beginning at 5 p.m. each evening. They are located 45 miles north of Atlanta at 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford.
More information at https://www.lanierislands.com/holiday-events/magical-nights-of-lights/.
One Man’s Opinion: The Difficulty of Saying Goodbye
By Bill Crane
Now in the September of my years, I find that more of my thoughts and time are spent in introspection, revisiting old memories, good and bad, and occasionally wondering if I made the best choices. Friends and peers of my parents seem to be passing with such frequency that I am not always able to be there, something I prided myself on for many years...giving a presence for helping those who matter to us as they grieve their loss and begin a life without their loved one. My own recent dance and battle with cancer have made me more keenly aware on this front. The frequency of passing by my own peers and classmates has also been increasing, almost geometrically. This too comes with this time in our lives.
Both my daughters and sisters are animal lovers. As a child, when traveling, my firstborn, Barclay, would introduce herself to strangers with, “I have six cats, two dogs, four fish, two frogs, and a ferret.” Youngest daughter Olivia and her mother are both cat lovers, and Olivia has had five cats living in her home throughout her eighteen years.
Yet we humans still tend to outlive our pets, leaving us with periodic times when we have to say goodbye. Most recently, Olivia’s gentle calico cat, Chloe, made her way to cat heaven. Periodic and severe challenges with kidney function were the main culprit. Chloe’s passing was preceded by the long goodbye for the very fragile Cocoa before her.
In my own home in Scottdale, Georgia, since 2007, there have been four cats. Santa brought Bruno, a first for Olivia, in her preschool years. When Tinkerbell arrived a few years later, also via Santa’s sleigh, Bruno treated the young kitten as if she were his own offspring. He seemed to like having company, and young Tink would often sleep curled atop her adopted brother.
When stomach cancer later came for Bruno, it became clear that his remaining life would be a painful existence. After allowing Olivia a final visit, we took Bruno to the family vet for a long and final nap. I went to be with Bruno, as he sat calmly and quietly atop my lap, with an IV extending out from a shaved paw. The gentle and professional vet tech administered the anesthesia. Bruno sat quietly, rubbed his head against my chest, looked up, and then lay down entirely, passing quietly a few moments later. I was surprised by how overcome I became, weeping in that vet office chair for what seemed like an hour.
Once tiny Tinkerbell is still with us, and another stray, Pink, came to reside here at stately Crane Manor during the pandemic, but Pink (rhymes with Tink) always wanted to answer the call of the wild, so he would regularly look for the opportunity of an open or cracked front or back door to dart out into the larger world. Later that day or the following morning, Pink would announce his return.
Pink darted out the front door once more, a few years back, on a dark, cold, and rainy night. I was being a bit more cautious with the cold and rain during COVID, and I assumed he would be back by morning. I had forgotten about the recent coyote sightings in our area.
A loud series of cat screeches later broke through the rain and storm noise close to midnight, and I went out to the front lawn with a flashlight, with nothing to be seen. By morning and in the light of day, I found a small and bloody chunk of flesh and hair, matching Pink’s coloring. We never saw Pink again...
Holiday Wanderlust
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able Southern college-town energy.
Staycation Spirit—Holiday Fun Right Here at Home: You don’t have to go far to get away. Downtown Lawrenceville’s holiday events, Snellville’s Towne Green festivities, and Lilburn’s Christmas parades all provide that same feeling of wonder close to home. Try a night out at a local restaurant decked for the season or a stroll through neighborhood lights with family. Sometimes the best memories happen right in your own backyard.
Making Memories, Not Miles: Whether it’s a weekend mountain escape or a simple day trip, the destination matters less than the time spent together. Pack your favorite playlist, grab a thermos of cider, and hit the road—because this season, joy isn’t found on a map. It’s found in the moments shared along the way. Enjoy the holidays, everyone!
one for the coyotes…
I have made, hopefully, in my post-cancer life, a renewed priority of visiting, in person, friends who are ailing. We never know what we don’t know, and it is always good for those you love to know that you feel that way about them. I know Bruno felt that as he headed for cat heaven, he certainly gave me that feeling back. And I occasionally see a solid gray shorthair cat climbing my back stairs, or curled up under outdoor furniture in cold weather, hot sun, or rain—and my heart will rise briefly, thinking that Pink has made a long pet movie-style return home.
But then reality sets in, and I just miss him instead. You see, I never had a chance to say goodbye.
Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
Kuumba Storytellers
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president of Kuumba President, I am amazed at the growth of the organization. I love sharing stories because they connect cultures and bridge communities and I live by the African proverb that says, ‘Not to know is bad; but to not want to know is even worse.’”
Tattle Tales is the name of the organization’s award-winning youth storytelling group. Tattle Tales was founded in 2010 as a component of Kuumba storytellers to assist youth in learning the art of storytelling to support their literary growth through training and performance opportunities.
More information at https://kuumbastorytellers.org/
Thanksgiving Tips
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lines will do because being consistent is important. Just the act of writing something down can have a positive impact.
• Be generous about saying “thank you” when you’re out and about in the community. In a world filled with road rage and other bouts of anger, it’s refreshing to encounter someone with a gracious spirit.
• Make it a goal to send at least one thank you note or thank you email a week. Perhaps a coworker helped you with a big project or there’s a family member you haven’t spoken to in a while. Not only will they feel good about receiving the note, but you will feel good about making someone else’s day a bit brighter.
• Volunteer and help others any way you can. As people, we have a tendency to feel better about ourselves and other things when we’re helping others. And perhaps during the holidays is a great time to start. Volunteer in your church or your community. Help out a friend in need. Any small act could make a big impact.
• Spend some time reflecting, praying, or meditating on and for an attitude of gratitude. It takes time and focus to develop a habit, even good ones. We often have to constantly remind ourselves as we pursue new endeavors and being thankful is no different. Keep it up.
Hopefully, as you see and feel the positive power of gratitude, you’ll be motivated to keep practicing, even if it’s just for one more day.
Finding Light
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keeps energy high and helps us stay positive during the seasonal change.
5. Stay Engaged in the Community.
As the days get shorter, connection matters even more. Here in Gwinnett, there’s no shortage of ways to stay involved, from local festivals and holiday markets to volunteer opportunities and small business events. Whether it’s supporting a local business or attending a neighborhood gathering, being part of something larger reminds us that light isn’t only found in the sky—it’s found in people.
6. Reflect and Reframe.
It’s easy to see early sunsets as the end of something, but perhaps they are the start of something else—a time for rest, reflection, and gratitude. The natural world slows down, and it’s okay for us to do the same. Take a moment each evening to consider what went well that day or write down one thing you’re thankful for. These small habits help maintain perspective when the nights grow long.
So, as we “fall back” and the light fades earlier, let’s remember that darker days don’t have to diminish our outlook. There’s beauty in stillness, comfort in community, and brightness in simple, intentional living. The seasons remind us that change is constant, but how we respond is up to us. Here’s to finding warmth, light, and gratitude, right here in Our Town!
Primrose School of/at Your Name
Primrose School of Five Forks
Ninety percent of a child’s brain develops in the first five years, and our Balanced Learning® approach makes the most of this important time. Through purposeful play and nurturing guidance from teachers, we inspire children to think with curiosity, creativity, confidence and compassion.
