Gwinnett Citizen March 2017 (Zone 1)

Gwinnett’s oldest locally owned newspaper - established 1988 Covering Snellville, Grayson, Lawrenceville, Lilburn, Loganville

Carolyn Wright

Art Matters

Art Matters

page 3

Vol. 29, No. 5

FREE

www.gwinnettcitizen.com

MARCH 2017

Finding Joy in Giving

By Katie Hart Smith Staff Correspondent

Closer Inspection

page 9

Anne Britt finds joy in giving of her time and talents in the Snellville community. Embarking on her eighty-first birthday in April, Britt chooses to spend her retirement years giving back to others. From volunteering at Eastside Medical Center, organizing senior activities, to coordinating, collecting, and distributing goodie bags to those in need during the Christmas season, one can see why she has received numerous awards and has been recognized by the City of Snellville for her philanthropic work.

In 2014, Britt was the recipient of the President’s Volunteer Service Award - Lifetime Achievement Award, an honor bestowed by former President Barak Obama for contributing more than 4,000 hours of service in her lifetime.

See ANNE on Page 36 Literacy Project

page 22

What is a cataract?

page 30

INSIDE Picture Perfect 4 Gwinnett Pulse 6 Classifieds 21 Roadrunner 22 Weddings 27 Health & Wellness 28 Spiritual 34 PRESORT STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID LILBURN,GA PERMIT NO. 99 ECR-WSS POSTAL CUSTOMER

Photo By Emmett Clower

Anne Britt (Bottom Left, black and white shirt) and friends, Evelyn Hill, Melanie Cochran (Center head of table), Cheryl Weeks, Chann Wolfe, Dot Whitmer, Helen Schuler (Back) playing Bingo at Kroger on Scenic Hwy in Snellville

Hudgens Center for the Hearing loss overcome Arts a hidden Gwinnett gem by technology

Special Photo

Gallery Visitors take a closer look at Rembrandt’s etchings in the Fowler Gallery last Fall

By Carole Townsend Staff Correspondent Since its organization, the Jacqueline Casey Hudgens Center for the Arts is operated by the Gwinnett Council for the Arts, Inc and was originally organized by Lawrenceville Woman’s Club in 1981 has grown from a grassroots effort into a thriving mecca for the arts.

Housed in several locations over the years, including the Williams House in Lawrenceville and the historic Lawrenceville Post Office. The beautiful facility is currently located at the Infinite Energy Center on

Sugarloaf Parkway in Duluth. It When the Hudgens Center for the Arts first moved to Gwinnett Center (now Infinite Energy Center), it occupied 14,000 sq. ft., including 4,000 sq. ft. of gallery space, an education department, and an additional 28,000 sq. ft. comprising the Al Weeks Sculpture Garden along the eastern side of the building.

Once the move to Duluth was made, a great deal of effort and commitment were devoted to raising private funds to expand the Center and create the accompanying endowment. As a result, an additional

See HUDGENS on page 38

Special Photo

Barbara and her husband Dennis in Rome, hearing tour highlights after the first cochlear implant.

By Carole Townsend Staff Correspondent

ministration. Currently, she is Chief Operations Officer at a large oncology practice in Atlanta. However, as is true of most people, Barbara’s road has been a winding one, with twists and turns she could never have predicted.

“I was born with normal hearing and have adult onset hearing loss as

Barbara McGowan is a success story, and in more ways than one. A registered nurse educated at St. Vincent’s Hospital School of Nursing in New York City, she has enjoyed a full and rewarding career both working with patients a result of Meniere’s disease. I was diagand now, working in health care adSee HEARING on Page 26

Page 2

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 3

Art Matters

Carolyn Wright

Art Matters

The title of my new column “Art Matters” has a dual meaning and purpose for me. As the owner of an art gallery and lover of all the arts, you might say of course art would matter to me, it’s my business and you would be right.

However, in a broader sense, art matters far beyond the scope of my world. It matters in our schools, our communities, our culture and it matters to our humanity.

So, I hope that you will join me as we explore some of the ways art matters, particularly in Gwinnett County and the positive impact it has on our community.

Often, funding for the arts is one of the first areas to lose funding during economic downturns or budget cuts and one of the last areas to be reinvigorated financially. Studies have proven that students who are exposed to arts education and

Publishers/Editor Carolyn Ekenstierna Bagheri Auveed Bagheri-Cawthon

training for several years (visual arts, music, dance, theater etc.) score higher on tests and experience lower dropout rates. Arts education and involvement stimulates the brain in a different way than science, math and technology. Both are essential to the development of a well-rounded, creative, I can work with others, think outside the box type individual. This dual approach to education, training the logical as well as the creative part of the brain is exactly what corporations desire in their employees.

Here’s what some titans of industry have had to say about the importance of arts in education: The late Steve Jobs, founder of Apple said in 2011 during the introduction of the iPad2, “It is in Apple’s DNA that technology alone is not enough—it’s technology married with liberal arts, married with the humanities, that yields us the results that make our heart sing.”

“GE hires a lot of engineers. We want young people who can do more than add up a string of numbers and write a coherent sentence. They must be able to solve problems, communicate ideas and be sensitive to the world around them.

Participation in the arts is one of the best ways to develop these abilities.” - Clifford V. Smith, President of General Electric Foundation Joseph M. Calahan, Director of Cooperate Communications, Xerox Corporation said “Arts education aids students in skills needed in the work-

107 W Crogan St, Lawrenceville, Ga 30046 Office (770) 963-3699 www.gwinnettcitizen.com info@gwinnettcitizen.com

The Gwinnett Citizen is a monthly community newspaper that has been providing community news for the past 28 years. It is Gwinnett’s oldest locally owned newspaper. Our readers know how to love life and have a passionate interest in the well being of our community. Through our stories and photos we bring to life the passion of living, working, playing, living healthy, and worshiping in Gwinnett. We help to connect readers with local businesses and services to promote shopping and buying local. We are a free and direct mailed publication with 3 geographic zones (newspapers) that contain hyper-local news pertinent to each community. Each zone distributes 20,000 copies via direct mail with a few select local businesses for rack distribution to total a distribution of 60,000 in Gwinnett County, Ga.

Have a Story of Community Interest or Announcement?

Community News is our passion (Scouting, Proud Achievements, Special Birthdays...) Please email: info@gwinnettcitizen.com or call us (770) 963-3699

Send us your Special Announcements!

Email them to us by the 20th of the month to be included in the upcoming month’s issue. Wedding, Anniversary & Birth Announcements are FREE!

For Advertising Information Please Call or Email (770) 963-3699 | advertising@gwinnettcitizen.com

© Copyright The Snellville Citizen, Inc dba Gwinnett Citizen, 2017. All rights are reserved, including those to reproduce this printing or parts thereof in any form without permission in writing from Gwinnett Citizen. Gwinnett Citizen is a monthly newspaper publication covering all of Gwinnett County. The publication was established November, 1988 as The Snellville Citizen. The views expressed in articles, columns and Letters to the Editor published in Gwinnett Citizen, do not necessarily reflect the opinion of Gwinnett Citizen.

place: flexibility, the ability to solve problems and communicate, the ability to learn new skills, to be creative and innovative, and to strive for excellence.”

Lastly, this quote really sums it up for me, “I believe that creativity will be the currency of the 21st century.” – Gerald Gordon, Ph.D., President/CEO, Fairfax County (Virginia) Economic Development Authority.

Okay, so what does this mean for our community, for Gwinnett County. I’m so glad you asked! Gwinnett is a great place to live, with many fantastic schools (some of the best not just in metro Atlanta, but the nation), the most diverse population of any county in Georgia, world class higher education and medical facilities, nationally recognized park system and affordable housing options. There are

lots of folks who recognize Gwinnett’s greatness as evidenced by the fact that Gwinnett is growing at three (3) times the rate of other counties in the region.

Carolyn Wright is the Co-owner along with her sister Sylvia Culberson of The LONA Gallery on the Square in Lawrenceville. Carolyn can be reached at carolyn@theLONAgallery.com.

Page 4

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Spring is bitter sweet

Meredith Chastain & Meghan Schroder Picture Perfect Spring is bitter sweet for us. We spend most of our time staring at weather apps willing the rain percentage to lower so we can fit in our outdoor shoots. It also provides us with the most variety of events that we photograph- making our days less predictable and more fun and making it difficult to decide who to feature in this column.

One standout event was the Grayson Elementary School Talent Show. This show has acts ranging from snake handling, pogo sticks, dancing and of course great singing. Featured is TWO time winner the Grayson Five. The kids are MaKayla Williams, Denise Keeton, Lordez Soares, Lorenz Soares and Kaniece Hodge and they brought down the house with their rendition of If It Isn’t Love by New Edition. I am always excited to see their costumes!

Another favorite event is the lovely father daughter dances. Nothing is sweeter than the dads and daughters

getting dressed up for these two adorable hours of dancing. Featured is Grayson Elementary PE teacher Chad Reed and his beautiful second grade daughter Laina. Laina dressed to match the fairy theme of the dance. Also featured is Starling Elementary school third grade student Anna Kendrick. She is featured with her dad (and sometimes coach) Craig Kendrick. We have learned at these dances the girls are attentive dates until fourth grade and then the dads better go with friends.

We had our first picture day for the Mill Creek Lacrosse Athletic Association.

We have been with the high school since it created the lacrosse program. We are so excited to watch these young athletes grow into high school players. Featured are kids from Vasseur’s team and then the amazing Mill Creek High School Lacrosse Seniors. These seniors braved a one hour rain delay before racing out of their cars to have picture day. The Senior Boys, 2 of whom are also Competition Cheerleaders, decided they wanted to create a rare feat for us - the “Double Pyramid”. We’ve had many teams able to complete the single, but never had a team so effortlessly perform a double and with a wet ground we were amazed!

Two little leaguers that we have enjoyed watching grow into amazing athletes are twins Will and John Taylor. They played on the state winning Grayson High School Football team and will now both be heading to Duke University. Will will be on the football team there. When they sat

See SWEET Page 5

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 5

SWEET continued from page 4 down to take their cap and gown portrait, we honestly all felt choked up realizing that these young men were already seniors and had taken their last athletic pictures with us! We know their future is so bright and will truly miss having them in our county for now! But good news for the Taylors- Magic Moment will travel to Duke to still take their photo buttons.

The Brookwood Soccer Seniors met on a Sunday afternoon in Downtown Lawrenceville for their program cover picture. While hesitant at first, the Senior Boys really got into the spirit resulting in many “Blue Steel”, “Duck Lips”, and finally piggy back pose pictures. By the end, I had to tame their ambitions so as not to result in any injuries. Both the Brookwood Varsity Boys and Girls seasons are finally off to a great start after several cancelled games due to our favorite Spring Rain.

Also highlighted is the Collins Hill Varsity Soccer Team coached by Jeff Tinklepaugh or more famously known

as Coach T. Coach T is a true soccer enthusiast. He head coaches the high school girls and then runs over to Dacula Revolution to head coach both the U8 and U9 Academy Girls travel soccer teams.

Collins Hill has two of the Gwinnett Super 6 (Olivia Dedels and Rachel Jones) and

the team is extremely exciting to watch.

Coach T is ensuring Gwinnett a bright future in soccer!

We will now continue our company debate- if the weather app says there is no rain but I feel rain on my head- is it really raining?

email: magicmoment777@yahoo.com or call 770-979-4203

Page 6

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Cooking is not my forte

Marlene Ratledge Buchanan Hey Y’all

I don’t know what got into me. I am no domestic goddess. I am a diva, but it does not extend to the kitchen.

This morning, I got up and thought, “I would really like some of Mama’s Irish Stew.” First mistake—thinking. Second mistake---- seeing that I had all the ingredients. Third mistake--- seeing a glutenfree cookie mix.

I actually started cooking. ( You should mark this date on your calendar.

It is Super Bowl Sunday. And I am pretty sure Hell is freezing over.)

I usually use cubed sirloin on the rare occasions when I make this soul-satisfying dish. But for some reason, this time I had three cans of Hereford’s roast beef. This was something Mama always kept on the shelf in case of emergencies.

She could make some amazing things like gravies or hash with it. Mostly she kept it for our little dog. As he aged and became more infirm, Mama would heat the Hereford’s roast beef and feed Ching the gravy. OK, now you know. My stew story involves good quality dog food.

I had an onion that wasn’t too fuzzy, so I cut off all the suspicious parts and diced it up.( Don’t you love it when you can use fancy words like diced?) I stood over the pot and held the onion way away from me and cut it up into whatever shape it made. Then I went back and washed out my eyes and blew my nose.

(Sounding more delectable with every description, isn’t it?)

Potatoes and carrots were next. Do you eat your carrots as you go? I do. I washed them and let them drain as I cut up the potatoes. Each time I came back to the counter, I ate another carrot.

Mama’s secret ingredient— McCormick’s Beef Stew Mix. The night that Snell and I moved into our first house, I was going to be so good and make this beef stew for us. I even lit a candle. I did everything I was supposed to do, except that I didn’t know about Mama’s McCormick’s Beef Stew Mix secret. I finally called home and had to admit that I had tried to cook the stew and it was bland. My Daddy, who was the most supportive person in the world, started to laugh. Then he told Mama and

she started to laugh. She told Daddy to ask me what I had put into it, and I told Daddy, who then told her. She told Daddy to ask, “Didn’t you add the Beef Stew Mix?” Well, no. I didn’t know she had held that secret from me. She told Daddy, who told me, ( I don’t know why she didn’t take the phone), that the stew I had made was edible. She suggested that I add more salt and pepper to give it a little flavor. They laughed about my first dinner for the rest of their lives.

On another occasion early in my marriage, I tried to make liver and onions.

Snell began to cry and still does when he thinks about trying to eat it. Remember the old Alka-Seltzer commercials with the newlyweds?. You got it. Those white river rocks that line the flower beds are actually my biscuits.

Anyway, back to this recent day of amazing things. My stew was stewing. I mixed up the gluten-free chocolate chip cookie dough and heated the oven. (You need to know that gluten-free is just a nice way of saying sweetened ground cardboard.) I also parched pecans and mixed them in real butter with a little salt. (You need to know that charcoal is good for you.)

We ate dinner. No one threw up or died. I may try this again next Super Bowl Sunday.

Drapery panels are a classic look

Joan Miller

width and a half. Typically, fabric comes in widths of about 55”. Once the pleats are added and the panels are hung, that will equate to about 18”-20” or as we refer to it, 1 width of drapery on your windows. A width and a half would make the window appear larger with about 28” of drapery width on the wall.

When choosing drapery hardware for panels, we like to use a rod that extends at least 4 – 6” beyond the window frame; more if there is adequate wall space. Again, the idea is to keep as much

The Blind Ladies

When choosing a window treatment, custom is the best way to get the desired look and feel that you want. It can be accomplished without breaking the bank and when done, the results will be worth every penny.

Consider drapery panels as a classic and classy way to add a polished and finished look to any windows in your home. The overall space next to the windows should determine how full or wide to make the panels. For example, if you have a large wall with one double window and lots of wall space on either side of the window, the panels should be at least a

of the window area open as possible and by hanging the rod at least 6” above the window frame will achieve that, too.

The drapery hardware choices are endless. For large panels, it is best to use a rod that can handle the weight. An inexpensive metal rod cannot do that job.

It’s best to choose a wooden rod, either 1 3/8” or 2”- 2 ½” in diameter that will support the fabric weight without sagging.

Another great treatment to consider would be Roman Shades. Roman Shades can be made in many different styles and will add a beautiful finishing touch to a kitchen area or even a kid’s bedroom.

Relaxed styles give a more casual look and accents such as a contrasting band can be added for some visual interest.

The Roman shade can be mounted inside or outside the window frame depending on the type of window and the design envisioned. They can be made with cordless lift or even stationary to hang underneath drapery panels.

Call Joan for help with all of your window covering needs. 404 918-5288 or visit the website: www.theblindladies. com

Gwinnett County Master Gardeners Association Rick Barnes will speak on “The Fantastic Ferns of the GSU Perimeter College Native Plant Botanical Garden!” at our Monday, 17 April 2017 meeting.

Rick cares deeply and works for the enhancement of this special college garden and we look forward to hearing more about this garden. Rick is an active horticulturist who has worked

in the horticulture industry for over 35 years and is currently a Business Developer at Downey Trees. He is also past Chairman of the Georgia Green industry Association, a certified arborist, and licensed pesticide applicator with numerous published articles and speaks to many horticulture groups. Come listen with us at our 7PM meeting at

Bethesda Senior Center, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville, GA 30044.

You are also welcome to join us for a covered dish supper at 6:30 - please bring a dish to share. See our website for any updates to this meeting at www.gwinnettmastergardeners.com

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 7

I Love to Tell the Story

Katie Hart Smith From the Heart

March is National Women’s History Month. I dedicate this column to the precious women in my life that came before me. I celebrate their sacrifice, hard work, and love; they demonstrated how to be a strong woman through adversity and taught me the importance of being a role model to others by making a positive contribution to society.

Did you know? Women’s History Month in the U.S. traces its roots back to the first International Women’s Day celebration in 1911.

I will share my story and tell you why I love to tell the story. Born in San Diego, CA, I am the oldest daughter of Joe and Brenda Hart of Shelbyville and Indianapolis, Indiana, respectively. A few years later, my sister, Julie came along.

Dad worked in the pharmaceutical industry. As a result, we lived in Ohio, Indiana, New Jersey, and Virginia before I turned eleven years old. At the age of twelve, my family moved to Dunwoody, Georgia. Georgia would become my forever home.

While I pondered, Who am I going to be when I grow up? I tried my hand at singing, playing the violin, cello, and piano. Unlike my Dad, who has a Godgiven talent and can play the piano by ear, unfortunately, all attempts never captured my interests or struck a harmonious chord.

However, I did fall in love with the fields of science and business in school.

I chose to follow in the footsteps of my grandmothers. I enrolled in Georgia State University and became a registered nurse like my grandma, Gigi. I also got an MBA from Troy State University, honing my business acumen like my Grandma Hart, who ran a multi-generational family

fertilizer business called the Bausback Corporation in Shelbyville, IN. Throughout life, I loved to write. I am passionate about telling the story.

For over twenty years, I’ve published numerous works ranging from medical, academic, to memoir and historical fiction.

I enjoy writing stories from the heart about Georgia, the city of Atlanta, and my Gwinnett community.

Why is Atlanta so special to me? My dad was the organist for the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception Church located a block from the State Capital in the late

1970’s. The priests shared stories of the historic significance of the church during the Civil War and opened my eyes to the South’s rich history, architecture, and landmarks. I channeled that knowledge and incorporated the social, political, and medical advancements and issues in my historical fiction writing.

I also channel the spirit of the women who came before me. Like my great grandmother Bausback, I love to wear hats. I even wear my great grandmother Ludorff’s wedding ring nestled between my engagement and wedding rings.

I look to the future to find out how to tell the stories of the past and present.

What keeps me grounded and motivated as a writer? Having a mission and a vision for my work. I understand that my words, spoken or written, have power. I am passionate about writing stories that touch the heart, inspire, and entertain the reader.

My deep Christian faith is incorporated into my work. A little-known fact, I pray before I write. I ask God to work through me. I thank Him and ask Him, “Please let me walk in this world for an-

other day so I can become the woman You created me to be.”

I love to tell the story, ‘twill be my theme in glory, To tell the old, old story Of Jesus and his love.

About Katie Hart Smith Katie Hart Smith’s column, “From the Heart,” touches the heart, inspires, and entertains. Smith, a published author for over twenty years, believes that words, written or spoken, have power. To learn more, visit www.katiehartsmith.com.

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 8

March 2017

Nash Lauds County’s ‘Remarkable’ Achievements, Diversity In State Of The County Address

By Staff Reports

You d! are invite

We meet every Monday at 12:00 Garden Plaza, Lawrenceville 230 Collins Industrial Way

Service Above Self

Rotary has Heart

The Rotary Club of Lawrenceville loves our service projects. On an annual basis, through gifts of time and nancial resources, we proudly support local organizations like The Lawrenceville Co-op, The Quinn House, The Salvation Army of Gwinnett, The JM Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA, the Gwinnett County Department of Family and Children Services Foster Care Program, Lawrenceville Elementary, and Georgia Gwinnett College. On a global level we are involved with Rotary International’s Stop Polio Now, the Georgia Rotary Student Program, Alliance for Smiles, and Feed My Starving Children.

Monday is our favorite day of the week! www.LawrencevilleRotary.org

In her seventh annual State of the County Address, Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash declared the county’s condition to be “remarkable,” highlighting multiple accomplishments while acknowledging challenges in the future.

Nash said Gwinnett’s brand is one of excellence as demonstrated by its good jobs, workforce, schools, recreational opportunities, and its exemplary bond rating.

“We’ve been building this brand over the course of decades but today, I see a strong Gwinnett brand that’s been re-invented,” she said.

Innovation is a hallmark of the Gwinnett brand, she said, citing the County’s F. Wayne Hill Water Resources Center, saying the wastewater treatment plant turns byproduct from the treatment process into fertilizer, and converts methane into electricity to run the plant.

She noted the state-of-the-art facility also returns 14.5 billion gallons annually of the water used by the county back to Lake Lanier and the Chattahoochee River.

Research institutions and others in water industry are working with Gwinnett County to discover new methods for recycling water and producing clean water more efficiently, Nash said.

Nash said collaboration between the County and its cities is another important element of the Gwinnett County brand of remarkable excellence. She spotlighted a new facility in Lilburn that doubles as a city hall and a county public library. The County is discussing similar library relocations in Duluth and Norcross, she said.

Let me be perfectly clear – failure to respect all Gwinnett residents and welcome their participation in our community is neither acceptable nor smart.

She said the County plans to work with the private sector to redevelop the 24-acre Olympic tennis venue on U.S. 78 near Stone Mountain, and with community improvement districts to improve pedestrian connectivity around Gwinnett Place mall and redevelopment and transportation along I-85 between DeKalb County and Beaver Ruin Road.

Nash also discussed the future expansion of the Infinite Energy Center as the county’s signature business and entertainment district. Mark Toro, managing partner and chairman of the board of North American Properties, described to the audience of about 750 what made Gwinnett County an attractive place to do business.

The County needs to explore new ways to improve mobility – including transit, Nash said.

“We can’t stop improving our road network, but expanded transit options must also be part of any long-term solution,” she said.

Nash also reaffirmed the County’s commitment to diversity and pledged to broaden its community outreach programs.

“Inclusion does not just happen,” she said. “It takes intentional effort. Let me be perfectly clear – failure to respect all Gwinnett residents and welcome their participation in our community is neither acceptable nor smart. Gwinnett’s future

success depends on all of us, working together to build the community.”

Nash said she wanted to build on the County’s Gwinnett 101 Citizens Academy, Dinner and Dialogue between citizens and commissioners, and Building Bridges events for various constituencies.

New inclusionary steps by the County will include adding young people to Gwinnett 101, inviting diverse groups to display traditional art, clothing, crafts and heritage in county buildings, and reaching out to minority job applicants and small businesses.

She called on people of all backgrounds and heritage to become more involved in their county government.

Nash announced a new tagline for the County’s community outreach program: “Many Voices, One Gwinnett.”

“Gwinnett’s future depends on all of us, working together to build the community,” she said. “We must engage and empower leaders from our diverse population who love Gwinnett to champion this important work.”

Video of the speech is available on demand at https://vimeo.com/204436992 and will air frequently on the county’s government access cable channel. A text version of the speech and a handout highlighting the previous year’s accomplishments can be found at www.gwinnettcounty.com.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Family Matters

Bill Walker Legacy State Bank Senior Lending Officer

By Bill Walker Legacy State Bank In small business, creating a legacy that can be passed down from one generation to the next is often a critical factor that makes all of the hard work and late nights worthwhile. Just ask Brian Robinson, the second-generation owner-operator of Loganville Auto Center on Highway 78: “I started ‘helping’ my dad at a very early age and was able to get a lot of experience in all aspects of the business. I learned over the years is that we are in

Special Photo

the people business as much as we are in the automotive repair business. The golden rule is not just Biblical; it is the foundation of a healthy business. We will only be the premier automotive repair shop in our area if Loganville Auto Center provides extraordinary customer service as well as high quality auto repair that exceeds all competition.”

The only TRUE Community Bank in the area agrees. Why would our banking relationship be any different?

Legacy State Bank, located in Loganville, GA, really takes “family” to heart. Locally owned and operated, the

bank has never been sold. Decisions are made locally, not by people in another state who aren’t truly familiar with your needs and circumstances. As an account holder, you have access to every employee from the Chairman of the Bank, to the tellers, to the loan officers. EVERY member of the Legacy State Bank team is committed to excellent service, and to working with you to meet your financial goals!

Why? The simple answer: “Family.”

The majority of the bank’s employees and 500 shareholders are from, and live in, the community surrounding it!

They work, play, shop and eat in the Loganville/ Grayson/ Snellville area, and are vested in the success and development of the businesses and consumers they serve.

Whether you are opening a new business in the greater Tri-Cities area, or have been here for decades and are ready to pass it on to the next generation, Legacy State Bank has the tools and services to help make your business banking as simple as possible. With tax season upon us, now is the perfect time to look at investments, IRA’s and other business-banking opportunities, and Legacy State Bank is here to help navigate what will work best for you or your business!

For more information about how to become part of the Legacy State Bank family, call 770.554.BANK, go to www.

LegacyStateBank.com, or drop by the Loganville office at 3825 Harrison Rd. today!

Page 9

Happy St Patricks Day March 17, 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 10

On closer inspection…

Photo By Mt Bagheri MD

Chris Taylor, Education Coordinator, Georgia Microscopical Society with student Kaia Jackson during Beginner’s Course in Microscopy at MVA Scientific Consultants, Duluth.

By Carole Townsend Staff Correspondent There is a group of about 25 Georgia professionals who are members of a little-known but fascinating organization called the Georgia Microscopical Society (GMS). Individual and corporate members include chemists, forensic scientists, photographers, biologists, teachers, geologists, students and anyone else fascinated by all aspects of microscopy. If this group doesn’t sound exciting enough to continue reading, think again. It’s these people, and others like them, who have helped unravel some of the most complex and confounding mysteries of science and criminal justice, and all with the use of a microscope.

The Georgia Microscopical Society was established in 1988 as the Georgia Microscopical Study Group. Its original purpose was for information sharing and discussion. In 1992, the name was changed to GMS, and the purpose of the organization was expanded. Member tours have been included as part of the meetings, giving participants the opportunity to take a look inside the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), Federal Department of Agriculture, U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory, and U.S. Customs, as well as high-tech commercial facilities.

GMS meetings explore forensic science, biology (insects, fungi, and wood), photomicrography, geology, and materials analysis (from microchips to earth’s environmental particles to lunar particles).

To anyone who finds the makeup of their world fascinating, this group is a dream come true.

Members of this prestigious organization reach out to students through

the Young People’s Microscopy Course, awarding a select few the opportunity to study and learn with seasoned professionals. In fact, this opportunity has been offered to students every year since 1994.

In an 8-week session during the winter, about 14 students spends Saturday mornings learning how to apply the use of the light and electron microscopes to the fields of chemistry, biology, even forensics. In the “Forensics” session, students use microscope analysis and other sciences to solve a fictitious murder.

Larry Peterson, GMS member, GBI Criminalist and Microanalyst, is one of the investigators credited with solving the notorious “Atlanta Missing and Murdered Children” cases back in the early 80s. It was Peterson’s identification of matching fibers found on each victim – carpet fibers, in particular – that tied Wayne Williams to the murders. Ultimately, Williams was convicted based largely on that critical fiber and hair evidence. How were the fibers identified and matched? Under a microscope, of course.

Peterson, Chris Taylor (U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory) and ATF Forensic Chemist Thomas J. Hopen (retired) were three of the class instructors at the February “Forensics” session held in Duluth at MVA Scientific Consultants, a microanalytical laboratory. During this and other sessions, some members instruct while others assist students in the laboratory. The experience is one that is priceless to the young mind that dreams of being a scientist someday.

The classes are offered to selected upper-middle-school and high school students, and there is no charge for student participation. Teachers pay a $10 course fee. Applications are being accepted for the 2018 session at www.georgiamicro.org.

Photo By Mt Bagheri MD

Larry Peterson’s power point presentation to students regarding investigative microscopic work.

According to a student who wished to remain anonymous, “Beauty can be found in everything, if you look hard or close enough.” A few weeks ago, (this student) got the chance to melt TNT. “I saw brilliant streaks of purple, red, and yellow, more beautiful than what you’d see in a rainbow--run across my field of view as the TNT re-crystallized. Since, I’ve looked at everything from protists and arthropods to fibers, glass, and crystals under the microscope, and each specimen has proved to be beautiful in its own way.” Clearly, this young man has a grasp and appreciation for what the instructors are trying to accomplish.

“The instructors of the course are truly wonderful. They’ve been mastering the microscope for years and have been more than happy to take us students under their wings and show us the ropes of one of science’s most useful instruments.

From a Doctor (PhD) in Entomology to a Forensic Trace Evidence Examiner who solved the Wayne Williams murder cases, the instructors are diverse and incredibly knowledgeable.”

What does this young man plan to do with this and other courses in Science when he’s an adult? “I plan on becoming a doctor, so I’ll definitely be using the microscope in my future as I study histology (the study of tissues and cells) and pathology.”

GMS meetings are usually held bimonthly, with presentations given by members or invited guests. A meeting generally lasts from 7-9 pm, at a location determined by the speaker. GMS membership is open to all persons interested in microscopy.

Annual dues are $10 for individuals and $100 for corporations.

For instructions about the application process, visit www.georgiamicro.org.

Central Gwinnett High School wins STEAM Grant

By Staff Reports

The Infinite Energy STEAM Education Grants were recently announced and among the winners was Central Gwinnett High School. The Central Gwinnett Fine Arts and STEM Academies were awarded $7500 to develop a program called Staging STEM. The Staging STEM program will be a series of workshops that will teach science standards through arts-related lessons and activities. The Central Gwinnett teachers and students will work with Aurora Theatre teaching artists to develop and execute the Staging STEM program. The Staging STEM program will roll out to local elementary schools in the Fall of 2017.

Special Photo The Infinite Energy STEAM Education Grants support innovation and creativity in Infinite Energy and the Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation present the classrooms of Gwinnett County Public Central Gwinnett High School teachers and students with a check for $7500 for the creation of a “Staging STEM” program.

Schools.

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 11

Combination therapies are the future of antiaging!

Fractora Enhanced

Aquagold MicroInfusion

Chrissy Thomas

About Face Skin Care

It has been an exciting year in the aging business. Normally, I am reviewing studies on machines that can promise to turn back time, but this year has proven to be a little different for us. I have been amazed at the number of combination therapies that are on the rise. This interesting turn is taking treatments that we already love and combining them to give results like I have never seen.

Microneedling is a treatment that comes in various forms. The idea of microneedling is to create small channels in the skin to stimulate new, healthy collagen to grow. The idea of the combination therapy is to apply ingredients into these small channels to help treat aging related issues. There is a two and one half minute window during which time these “channels” remain open to allow these topical treatments to penetrate the intradermal layer- the top layer of the skin.

The following are now available at About Face Skin Care with our Registered Nurses.

Before If you have issues with dry, dull skin with a few fine lines, try this!

• Collagen Induction Therapy with Hydrafacial MD- HydraFacial MD® is a non-invasive, multistep treatment that combines the benefits of water based exfoliation, a chemical peel, automated painless extractions (no pinching!) and a special delivery of Antioxidants, Hyaluronic Acid and Peptides. When combined with the collagen stimulating benefits of Collagen Induction Therapy, you will see skin that is moisturized, smooth and tightened. This treatment is perfect for someone who has very dry, dehydrated skin, acne, fine lines, dark spots, or just needs an overall freshening.

After

Special Photo

Before

The skin is topically numbed before treatment so there is no discomfort and no downtime.

If you have issues with lines and wrinkles, try this!

This treatment requires no numbing and is usually completed in about fifteen minutes.

If you need superior skin tightening and wrinkle/ fine line reduction, try this!

• Aquagold MicroInfusion Treatment° This mini-miracle has taken us by surprise. The Aquagold infusion system is a small sterile ampule that can be filled with products that are delicately delivered into the top layers of skin to treat sensitive areas like crow’s feet, wrinkles around the lip lines, neck lines, décolleté, and backs of hands. Skin has an instant glow with no downtime and the treatment is pain-free.

• Fractora Enhanced° We have enjoyed the amazing benefits of Fractora in our practice for over two years. The tightening and lifting rival a facelift in many cases. However, we had no idea that Fractora could be enhanced to deliver even more incredible results when combined with a topical collagen stimulator. Fractora is a combination of microneedling and Radio Frequency. After the treatment, a col-

After

Special Photo

lagen stimulating solution is applied topically to the skin. The results, in about six weeks, includes brighter, smoother skin with smaller pores and fewer lines.

As you can see, we are thrilled to introduce these amazing new services to fight the aging battle. In honor of our 15th year in business, we are offering discounts on these and other amazing products and treatments. We offer a free consultation to discuss your best treatment options. Give us a call at 770935-FACE (3223) or book online at www. aboutfaceskin.com. We look forward to meeting you! About Face Skin Care and About Mind and Body are located behind Lowes on Janmar Road.

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 12

Grayson Day Celebrates Big Time (in a) Small Town

Special Photo

Pastor Alan James of Word Aflame Tabernacle tosses candy to spectators.

By Staff Reports The 38th Annual Grayson Day on Saturday, April 29th, will be a day of recognizing and celebrating the everything that makes living in a small town absolutely wonderful Each year, Grayson celebrates Spring with the Grayson Day Parade and Festival.

More than 200 vendors are expected to share their arts, crafts, food, music, and enterprises in Grayson Community Park.

Last year, it is estimated that more than 6,000 people enjoyed a warm welcome to the City of Grayson on Grayson Day and the 2017 festival is expected to be bigger than ever, according to event coordinators City Administrator Laura Cone and Mayor Allison Wilkerson.

“Our food vendor spots always fill up early,” said Cone. “We’re once again expanding the venue to accommodate even more vendors and free activities for the children throughout the day.”

Free activities for the children include pony rides, petting farm, trackless train, space ball, inflatable bounce houses and an obstacle course. Other activities will be available for a small fee.

The Grayson Day Parade steps off at 10:00 a.m. with the theme “Big Time Small Town.”

“The Grayson community exemplifies the absolute best of small town living,” said Mayor Wilkerson. “Set amid a host of big-box cities, we’re an amazing boutique town where phenomenal people are setting up businesses and raising their families.

And we’re proud of that.”

In true Grayson form, the parade will include float entries of local businesses as well as tractors, beauty queens, little league teams, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, marching bands, and Grayson High School’s teams and cheerleaders. Anyone can be in the Grayson Day Parade; information can be found on the city’s website: www.cityofgrayson.org.

It’s going to be a day of celebration and fellowship … We’re going to have a really big time!

38th Annual Grayson Day Parade and Festival • April 29, 2017 Parade Begins at 10:00 a.m. • Grayson Day Festival from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Grayson Community Park - 475 Grayson Parkway - Grayson, GA 30017

Special Photo

The Championship Grayson Rams Football Team always makes a big entrance with the Grayson Day Parade.

March 2017

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 13

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 14

How can I tell if I have a yard leak?

Special Photos

It’s usually pretty straight-forward for most people to tell that they have a leak. If there is a large pool of water, a wet spot, slow drops falling or water is gushing and spewing out of a pipe - a leak is pretty obvious. However, the most common and expensive leak that a homeowner may face is a yard leak. Yard leaks may not be that obvious to detect because the service line where underground pipes are buried are located several feet below the ground in your yard, or in the irrigation system. Since a yard leak may not be that easy to spot, here are a few tips and signs to help you determine if you have one.

Check Your Water Bills One of the first signs of a yard leak may come in the form of a large water bill. If there is a significant increase in your bill that is not due to a seasonal change, such as filling up the swimming

pool during the summer or taking longer baths during the winter, it may be due to a water leak. Compare your water bills from the previous months to see if it has suddenly spiked. If there are no obvious leaks, wet spots or dripping water faucets in and around your home, then it may be a hidden yard leak.

Telltale Wet Spots If there’s a damp or wet spot in your yard, where water is pooling, and the rest of the area is dry, that could also be the sign of a yard leak. As long as you don’t have a pre-existing low or uneven spot on the lawn where water usually collects either when it rains, or the sprinklers have been on, you can pretty much conclude that the area has suddenly become soggy underfoot because of a yard leak deep below the surface.

Lush Patches of Green in the grass If there’s an extra lush patch of green

grass in your yard, it may be because of a yard leak. If there is an underground leak in your yard, the extra water leaking out will supply the surrounding grassy area with additional moisture that will help the grass to grow faster and result in a lush, green appearance. So if that lush green patch of grass suddenly appears, unfortunately, it may not be because of your green thumb - but because of a yard leak.

If you do suspect that you have a yard leak, or you notice a huge spike in your water bill, contact your plumber immediately. Your Allgood plumber has the experience, knowledge, and equipment to take care of any yard leak with minimal disruption you and your home.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, call Allgood Plumbing, Electric, Heating & Cooling at 678-369-8118 or visit our website today.

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 15

Eating Well as You Age! Superfoods for Super Smart Seniors

Special Photo

Chili dogs may be awesome for the soul, but they may not be so great for the body on a regular basis. Having good nutritional habits is vital to our health---and this is especially true as we age. Nurturing our bodies with the right foods to live long and live strong--- and nurturing our brains with foods that help maintain cognitive function-- are imperative for overall wellness. Truth is-- what we eat matters While there are a plethora of nutritional guides advising us on the right foods to incorporate into our diets for better aging, it’s much more difficult to find creative ways to make them taste good. In recognition of National Nutrition Month, we will explore fresh and easy

ways for seniors to add healthy superfoods into their daily diet so they can begin wanting what the body needs.

The Power of SUPERFOODS and Antioxidants: While all fresh vegetables, fruits and natural meats are dense with nutrients, minerals and vitamins, certain foods are so rich in nutrients that they are referred to as ‘Superfoods.’

Superfoods are nutrient and antioxidant packed foods that are notably beneficial to health and wellbeing. Antioxidant rich superfoods like berries, chia, beans, kale, artichoke, trout, salmon and seeds are especially important to fight against a myriad of age-related conditions that can impair your memory and thwart your

brain function. These foods also help to fight against life threatening illnesses like cancer and heart disease.

Pack a Crunch with Seeds and Nuts: Seeds and nuts are often forgotten.

But they are excellent for a grab and go snack. Nuts like walnuts are high in alpha-linolenic acid, a type of brainboosting omega 3 fatty acid. Mix nuts and seeds into your favorite yogurt or oatmeal. Or grab a handful and eat them by themselves. Chia seeds are mini-powerhouses packed with antioxidants and are a great source of nutrients for seniors.

Chia pudding is a tasty way to get all the benefits of the chia seed.

Eat Your Veggies: You really should listen to your mother. Eat your vegetables-- especially cruciferous ones like Brussel sprouts, broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, cabbage, arugula, collard greens, kale and cauliflower. These are all great foods to easily fuse into your diet. Substitute your tortilla wrap with a leafy green like a collard leaf and fill with sautéed brussel sprouts with a light balsamic glaze. Make a tasty salad. Pack a punch and add kale to your berry smoothie for a ’super’ drink. The possibilities are endless and veggies are versatile. Just get creative.

Don’t forget your Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Omega- 3 Fatty Acids are essential to good brain health particularly DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). Seafood is a fantastic source of Omega- 3 Fatty Acids. Fatty fish like sardines, wild salmon bluefin tuna and herring are es-

pecially high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids.

Substituting meats like ground beef for fish 2 times a week can have a significant impact on your health. If you don’t eat seafood, don’t worry. Seaweed, fish oil and microalgae are all great supplements to get the benefit without eating seafood.

Creating a healthy, happy lifestyle through food might seem like a challenge in the busyness and convenience of today’s world. But choosing to commit to a healthy, happy lifestyle is worth the effort---especially as we age. Being at your healthiest allows you to enjoy time with your family, evenings with friends, and the knowledge that you are taking advantage of every moment you have to live the best life you can. For more information on healthy living in an environment clinically proven to produce positive outcomes in the health and lives of seniors, call Dogwood Forest of Grayson at 678496-2319. www.dogwoodforest.com

Easy Chia Pudding Recipe Simply add in a jar 1 ½ milk (almond, coconut or cow’s milk) to 1/3 chia seeds, along with 2 tbsp of sweetener (maple syrup, or runny honey), and ½ tsp of vanilla extract. Shake and let chill for 1 hour. Shake again and let chill for another 4 hours. You can spice up your pudding with other antioxidant rich foods like strawberries, blueberries, pistachios and almonds. If you want something more decadent add in another rich superfood, cacao or cocoa powder and cinnamon for a chocolate treat.

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 16

March 2017

De-cluttering - both the house and the life – room by room

Carole Townsend

(Not So) Common Sense The garage. Every house has a room that’s a virtual demilitarized zone. Our DMZ is the garage. It’s the room that’s designed to hold our cars – perhaps the second most expensive things we own, next to the house itself. Instead, at our house anyway, we store about $200 worth of junk, boxes, pieces and parts, old paint and unidentified but important looking plastic things, in the garage, and we park our expensive cars outside in the rain, hail, sleet and blistering sun. Makes sense, right?

No. Not at all and therefore, we have “the garage talk” about twice a year. In my husband’s defense, we sold our business two years ago, and all of the stuff we didn’t sell to the new buyer was hauled away to a storage facility, where it sat for about a year. When I saw the bill for storing a bunch of stuff that we couldn’t even identify, I nearly choked. We were paying more than $200 a month to store junk, basically. I pitched the requisite

wife hissy fit, and all of the stored junk got moved home and dumped into – you guessed it – the garage. And there it still resides today.

Believe it or not, we add to the junk on a pretty regular basis. Christmas is one time that we really pile it on. We save every big box that presents come in: big doll houses, tricycles, doll furniture, stuff like that. We still have the giant box that our granddaughter’s car seat came in. Why do we still have it? It’s not like her mommy is going to return her to the store, thereby necessitating our returning the car seat. We still have the playpen box. It’s perched atop two bicycles and a vacuum cleaner that I know I threw out a few years ago. In fact, I’ve thrown it out several times, and every time I do, hubby goes out to the curb and brings it back (you guessed it) into the garage.

Why? Well, he says that he can clean it up and fix it, and it’ll be as good as new.

The thing is so old that they quit making the bags that fit it back in the early 90s, but I guess we’ll cross that bridge when we vacuum up to it. I’m not going to hold my breath.

Over the years, the path from the garage door to the back door that enters the house has gotten more and more narrow. In an attempt to throw out a sarcastic hint about the condition of the garage last month, I crumbled and trailed breadcrumbs along that narrow path as we left for church one Sunday morning. The joke was on me you see, because when we returned from church, the crumbs had been eaten by whatever critter(s) reside in our garage. And critters there are. They have nested in my beloved pool floats, stored in a cabinet

that I haven’t been able to reach since the mid 2000s. They have stuffed themselves on dog food, which we used to store in the garage in a big plastic bin. Turns out, mice eat plastic if they know dog food is the second course. Now, we store the dog food in a metal bin. If they chew through that, I’m moving.

The garage has been a point of contention between hubby and me for a few years now. It’s become one of those behemoth tasks that’s daunting, overwhelming. The thought of cleaning it, I’m sure, is much worse than the actual cleaning, though I may not live long enough to know that for sure.

To hubby’s credit, he has begun the process of cleaning out the garage. It has to be done in steps. Quadrants must be laid out, tackling just one at a time ( I saw that on a cop show once). It’s the only way to manage the task. This weekend, as we both spent some time in our garden beds preparing them for the coming spring, hubby casually mentioned to me that he would be throwing away the Everlast punching bag and all the camping equipment we acquired over the years. “No!” I protested. “I love that punching bag!” (It hasn’t hung in that garage in more than 10 years. We actually tried parking the car in there in late 2001. That lasted about a week). “And the camping equipment!

Oh, we made such good memories with the kids, and the dogs...” I was nearly in tears. Keep in mind, we haven’t camped since our kids were in middle school, so, that’s what, maybe 12 years ago?

My husband just looked at me without saying a word, and I got it. No, he’s not the only reason the garage looks like it does. I’m very much a part of the prob-

lem. I’m one of those people who has to pick up, handle, examine and reminisce over every single thing I touch that’s on the chopping block. If you saw our garage (and I try to prevent everyone from seeing it, believe me), you’d understand that with my help, it’d take about 15 years to thoroughly clean it. So we established another ground rule: nothing in the garage is allowed back inside the main part of the house. No exceptions, even if we find another child.

We’ve given up hope of ever parking our cars in there; I’m not sure what kind of cars the builder owned back then, but for him to have called that a two-car garage is a stretch. Instead, we plan to make the garage into a man cave of sorts, a woodworking shop for hubby, who is a skilled and talented carpenter. He deserves it; he really doesn’t have a man cave anywhere else in the house. I figure that’s pretty good motivation, don’t you?

Oh and if you know anyone in the

TEAM

SUCCESS Womans Networking

market for a great punching bag, one of those big, heavy ones, tell them you know where to find one. And camping equipment – a couple of multi-room tents, lanterns, cooking utensils, you name it – we got it. We have all that, and the stories that go with it.

Carole Townsend is a Gwinnett author and freelance writer. Her fourth book, BLOOD IN THE SOIL, was published in 2016. It is the true tale of a crime that took place in Gwinnett County nearly 40 years ago. Her previous three books are written with Southern humor. Carole often appears on network television talk and news shows, as well as on national true crime radio shows. Her books can be found in bookstores, on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, and at www.caroletownsend.com.

When she’s not writing, Carole travels throughout the southeast, talking to groups about women, writing, family and life in her beloved South.

Come Network Wednesdays at Noon.

Dave and Busters at Sugarloaf Mills

For info call 770.633.4982

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 17

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 18

Inflation and Your Retirement

Roger Green, MSFS,CFP ® Green Financial Resources

Inflation can be defined as an overall upward price movement of goods and services in our economy as measured by the Consumer Price Index (CPI). When planning for how much money you will need for retirement, it is important to consider the impact of inflation on your assets and your goals.

Ongoing inflation takes away the buying power of your money, meaning you will need more money to live on in the future than you need currently.

Since 2012 inflation has been trending downward, but it did rise in 2016 and although relatively low at 1.3%, signs indicate inflation may begin trending upward. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, inflation in the thirty years from 1986 to 2016 has averaged over 4% annually. It takes over $220 to buy today what $100 bought in 1986. If you look back further to the span between 1956

and 2016, the inflation rate averaged over 13% annually, meaning that you need over $880 to buy now what you could have purchased in 1956 for $100.00. To drive home this point, depending on your age, you may now be driving a car that cost more than your first home!

Inflation turns your retirement goals into moving targets. What must you always do to hit a moving target? You must lead the target to hit the target.

There is a useful financial tool, called the “Rule of 72” that can be used to help you calculate how many years it will take for prices to double, based on the current inflation rates. To apply this rule, you divide 72 by the inflation rate. For example, 72 divided by 4% average inflation equals = 18. This means it would take 18 years for prices to double based on an average 4% inflation rate.

Applying the Rule of 72 and this example to your retirement planning, you could say that if you are 18 years from an age 65 retirement, you would need double the annual income that you calculate in today’s terms for each year of your retirement. If you anticipate needing $25,000 a year from your investment assets in retirement based on today’s figures, then you would need to double that figure.

You would need to plan on needing $50,000 per year in retirement at age 65, assuming 4% average annual inflation during that time.

Inflation continues through retirement as well, so if you retire at age 65,

the income you will need will effectively double every 18 years if the 4% average annual inflation rate continues. With today’s earlier retirements and long life spans, many people may see two or more doublings in cost during their retirement period if the inflation trend continues.

Your retirement planning must take into consideration the impact of inflation. For most people, simply saving is not sufficient and they need growth, earnings and the power of compounding on their money, even throughout retirement, to help their assets grow enough to keep pace with inflation.

To learn more about inflation, compounding, earnings, growth, and more register for Successful Retirement Planning coming up in March at Gwinnett Technical by calling the college at 770.995.9697. No time for class? Call us or visit our website at www.rogersgreen.com for a complimentary consultation to review your retirement planning situation, whether you are years away, or already in retirement.

Roger S. Green is a Registered Representative with securities and advisory services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, member FINRA/SIPC. Green Financial Resources, LLC is located at 3700 Crestwood Parkway, Duluth, GA 30096. Neither Green Financial nor Gwinnett Technical College is affiliated with Cetera Advisors. Tune in to “Your Green”, Saturdays 10-11AM on 970 AM or live at www.faithtalk970.com.

March 2017

April 24 golf tournament to benefit Snellville Police Department The Snellville Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association is hosting its annual Blue Light Golf Tournament and Fundraiser April 24.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., there will be a shotgun start at 9 a.m. and lunch and awards are slated for 1 p.m. at Summit Chase Country Club, 3197 Classic Drive.

The SCPAAA is a 501c(3) organization with a goal of raising money and providing support to the Snellville Police Department. In the past SCPAAA has provided funds for the police K-9 and their equipment, laptops for the Criminal

Investigation Division and push bumpers, tinted window treatments and spotlights for the police cars. This year, the funds will be earmarked to help purchase the SPD’s fourth K-9.

Hole sponsorship is $110. Team is $400 for four players and a tee sponsorship. All donations are tax deductible.

Contact Mary Fergus at mfergus@ bellsouth.net or 770-985-1322.

Applications are also available at Summit Chase Country Club, in the lobby at City Hall and at the PGA Superstore in Lawrenceville.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 19

Eastside Medical Center volunteer of the year

By Staff Reports

Special Photo

Joanne Gilbreath has been a volunteer at Eastside for over 13 years and has served both at the hospital and state level for Auxiliaries, all of the patients, staff, and volunteers sing her praises.

Medical Center’s Director of Volunteer Services Laura Hannah, “She loves people and helping her community and is a true asset to Eastside Medical Center.” Although, if you ask Joanne Gilbreath she will humbly say, “there are many volunteers who deserve this award with me.” With her humble and kind spirit, Gilbreath enriches the lives of the patients, volunteers, and staff members that she interacts with at Eastside Medical Center. Congratulations Joanne!

akfa Buff st et 9 am-

1pm

FrancosBestPizza.com

CATERING

Lunch • Dinner Office Luncheons Graduation Parties • Weddings

Call to schedule your next catered event!

Menus customized to your needs!

*FREE Dessert

*Dine-in only, with purchase of 2 adult dinners and 2 drinks, excludes alcohol.

Dine in only. Expires 04/30/2017

1365 Grayson Hwy • Lawrenceville, Ga

678-407-1155

Monday - Closed Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 9pm Friday - 11am - 10pm Saturday 9am - 10pm Sunday 9am - 9pm

FrancosBestPizza.com

SAT U & SU RDAY Bre NDAY

Racetrac Webb Gin House Rd

Grayson Hwy

Eastside Medical Center has announced Joanne Gilbreath as the Volunteer of the Year in honor of her continued dedication to Eastside over the last 13 years. Joanne has served in many executive volunteer positions over the last 13 years including President, President-Elect, Past President, and the Vice President of Recruitment.

In addition to local volunteer work at Eastside Medical Center, Gilbreath has also served at the state level on the Council on Auxiliaries as the District Vice President of Education and Vice President of Membership.

As a volunteer at Eastside Medical Center, Gilbreath has served in Day Surgery as the Area Chairman, Endoscopy, and at the North Tower information desk. Gilbreath has recently resigned from the Auxiliary Board of Directors, but not without continuing to serve in other areas. Gilbreath will now be chairing all of the Auxiliary fundraisers during the year, working with vendors to support various purse sales, book sales, jewelry and brand name product sales.

Nominated by Eastside Medical Center employees, her fellow volunteers, and the Auxiliary Board of Directors, Gilbreath is most deserving of this honor. “Joanne is always the first to help, with a big friendly smile and a warm and caring heart,” said Eastside

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 20

March 2017

Run on ahead; I’ll catch up.

Carole Townsend

(Not So) Common Sense I’m a dog person. That one short sentence says an awful lot about somebody, but it’s true. I’m a dog person through and through. Don’t get me wrong; I love all animals (even cats, only because I think somehow I’m commanded to), but dogs just melt my heart. They are everything that’s good, and nothing that’s bad, in our natures.

For several years now, we have had four dogs. As crazy as that sounds, I think we have a dog for every kid that grew up and left home. I love them all dearly, but

there’s one – Chester - whom we had since he was about 6 weeks old. He became a part of our family nearly 14 years ago, when a veterinarian friend of mine called me to say that I might want to meet the little guy. You see, we had recently lost our-beloved Golden Retriever Maddie to a wicked cancer when she was only 5 years old. Heartbroken, I couldn’t even think about adopting another dog. No one could replace Maddie.

At my friend’s urging, I went to meet this mangy, starved, worm-eaten little fur ball, telling myself the whole time that I was only going to appease my friend. I pulled into her driveway that afternoon, and I saw her holding what looked like a leash with nothing at the end of it. As I walked closer, however, I saw that there was, indeed, a little dog at the end of the leash. He had buff colored fur and the biggest, blackest eyes I had ever seen. He looked like a sad, forlorn little snowman. I bent to pick him up but she warned, “Don’t touch him. He’s being treated for every kind of worm under the sun.”

I heard the words come out of my mouth before I realized I had said them.

“He’s beautiful. I’ll take him.” After spending 2 weeks at the vet getting cured

of every malady under the sun, the day finally came for Chester to come home and join our family. Now I can’t pretend to know a dog’s thoughts or capabilities, but the look on that sweet dog’s face registered one thing: JACKPOT. This house was full of kids, had a swimming pool and best of all, there was an endless supply of food. Chester’s fortune had changed, and he knew it.

Chester loved life. He loved people.

He loved a party. Kids were his favorite, and food was the absolute best thing on earth. At the height of his health, he tipped the scales at 82 lbs. I’ve never known a dog who loved a belly rub more than he did, and he had the best, most velvety ears just made for rubbing. If he got all that and could sit in your lap while you did it, he was happy.

The years ticked by, and our hyper-energetic Chester slowed down a bit. He quit eating electronics, batteries, lighters, shoes and sunglasses (all for the best, of course). He spent a little more time sleeping than he used to. He also acquired 3 sisters over the years; oddly, 2 of those 3 sisters are the same age, all about 14 years old. The third sister is a beautiful, smart, quirky Goldendoodle that we inherited from our daughter. Each in her own way, the 3 girls are rescues, too.

Last week, Chester began to pant uncontrollably. His countenance had changed, and he developed a cough like I’ve never heard before, at least not from him. I tried all my medication tricks (he’s one of the millions of dogs today who has allergies as badly as children do). Nothing seemed to help. With dread, I called our vet and asked her to take a look at him.

Without going into too much detail, my sweet boy was diagnosed with lymphoma. There was no hope of making him better. No hope of even making him more comfortable. The vet gave me some time with him, but I knew what I had to do. I’ve made the mistake before of trying to hold on too long, and in the long run, the dog

just suffered longer than was necessary.

I vowed years ago never to do that to another sweet dog.

I sat there in the floor of that examination room, his head in my lap, his sweet eyes imploring me to help him. I rubbed his soft ears, did my best to calm and comfort him, and with tears streaking my face, I summoned the vet.

The entire process of euthanasia takes very little time, but it can feel like years. I rubbed him and talked to him, kissed his big, wide head, and just like that, he was gone. I bent and whispered in his ear, “You run on up ahead, boy. I’ll catch up with you.” And I sat there like that for, well, I’m not sure how long. I sat there like that until I told the vet and her sweet assistant that I was ready to leave.

Every time I go through this, I ask myself why on earth I do it. The pain and sadness are indescribable, and my heart literally breaks. And then I remember, the sunny days and his lightning-fast runs.

I remember his penchant for digging (I believe visiting China was on Chester’s bucket list). I remember how fast he could destroy one of those “indestructible” toys. But most of all, I remember the way he’d look at me with utter love and complete adoration. I remember how he’d sit beside me and lay his head in my lap. I remember how he’d fall asleep when I’d scratch his chest. And I knew why I put myself through it and someday, I know I will again.

I sat in our driveway that morning and tried to collect myself before walking in to greet our other sweet dogs after this terrible trip from which their brother didn’t return, and never will. I walked into the house, and there they were - tails wagging and “talking” up a storm. And as if on cue, all of them stopped wiggling and chattering and they began to sniff Chester’s collar, looking from me to the collar and back again. Of course, that triggered a new wave of tears, and when I opened the back door to let the girls outside, instead of run-

ning and playing, they each stood beside me, licking my hands and keeping in step with me. Our next oldest – Cassie – spent more time with Chester than any of the others. For days, she paced from room to room, looking for him, then looking at me.

They grieve just as we do.

We’ve been giving them extra attention, being sure that they all eat and don’t behave too differently than before they lost their sweet brother. And perhaps sweetest of all, my husband (who could only tolerate the little 5 lb. Chihuahua in bed with us until we lost Chester), now allows them all on the bed with us. He even picks up Cassie, because her back legs are too arthritic to make the leap.

Why do I do it to myself? Why does any dog or cat (or any pet) lover put themselves through it? Because as painful as the end is – and it always is – all the years that precede it are blessed beyond measure with unconditional love, laughter, and all the best that any creature (including man – especially man) can offer.

So yes, my sweet boy. Run on ahead.

I’ll catch up with you someday soon, and I’ll be bringing a lot of friends with me. And once we get caught up, you’ll lean into me and lay that good, sturdy head in my lap, and I’m going to rub those perfect ears.

And it’ll be a pretty good bet that there’ll be a few treats in my shirt pocket.

Carole Townsend is a Gwinnett author and freelance writer. Her fourth book, BLOOD IN THE SOIL, was published in 2016. It is the true tale of a crime that took place in Gwinnett County nearly 40 years ago. Her previous three books are written with Southern humor. Carole often appears on network television talk and news shows, as well as on national true crime radio shows. Her books can be found in bookstores, on Amazon.com, Barnes & Noble.com, and at www.caroletownsend.com. When she’s not writing, Carole travels throughout the southeast, talking to groups about women, writing, family and life in her beloved South.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 21

Heroes Behind the Heroes

Julie Rizzo

Happenings with Julie

Hopefully you haven’t been in such an emergency to need to call 911, but if you have, you don’t really think about the other person on the other side of the phone. Just like everyone else, 911 dispatchers are regular people; they get up, go to work and go home. However; their job isn’t regular. During work, they answer calls from people in need of police, ambulance, directions to their loved ones, CPR instructions and many other things.

They take lives in their hands every day to help the people in Gwinnett stay safe.

My mom, Heather Rizzo works at the Gwinnett County Communications Office and let me come in to interview a few dispatchers.

The first interviewee, Susan Sanders, was answering my questions in between

Classifieds HELP WANTED Automation Engineer

Sage Software, Inc. has FT position in Lawrenceville, GA: Automation Engineer – Plan, design & create automated testing scripts to ensure quality in Sage’s software & online services. Technical input & analysis for creation/ improvement of automation code architecture to support automated test scripts. Run automated testing scripts, support regression functionality of software, track & analyze results. Create reports on test results for mgmt., report software defects/usability issues. Communicate w/ Sage areas impacted by automation: Sales & Marketing, Product Design & Experience, R&D & Support. Run existing regression automated tests, create new automation scripts. R&D new automation tools & convert existing automation architecture. BS Deg in Comp Sci, Comp Eng., or Business, & 24 months of rel. exp. rqrd.

Apply at: http://tiny.cc/ pvmfjy. Include job code “SSLP”

calls. She started working at the communication office because she was looking for another career choice. Since then, Susan has been an amazing worker who obtained many stories to tell; some good, some bad. When I told her to tell me some past calls, she told me some are bad ones.

One bad call was on Christmas Eve and an airplane went down. Someone called 911 to locate the plane because no one knew where it was. Another was when parents had to call about their son because they couldn’t find him. He wanted to swim in the lake near his house even though his parents told him not to, so the son ran away. The son had autism and needed to be found immediately. Susan helped them find him and make sure he wasn’t in the lake. Also, she took a call from a woman who thought her prized Rottweilers had gone missing. Little did she know; her prized dogs were on a street that was behind her house. They were in a woman’s yard, joyfully playing in the lake. One call, Susan had to give someone instructions to perform CPR on another person; later, she found out the person lived. She went home knowing that she saved someone’s life.

Another interviewee, Sissy, was in between calls and training someone, when I asked if I could interview her. I didn’t want to bother her, but her multi-tasking skills were unbelievable. Also, looking for a different career path, she started working at Gwinnett’s Communication Office. With experience, Sissy has good and bad sto-

ries from calls she took. One good story was when she helped a man perform CPR on himself. He lived to see another day. A bad call was from a husband who was sixty miles away from home and he didn’t know how to get home from where he was. He had just got off the phone with his wife, who he heard shot herself in the head. Sissy helped him home, but she would always remember this. This is a reminder that 911 dispatchers don’t just take the call; they go through the emergences with the callers.

When asked how they feel about their job being categorized as clerical work, they definitely disagree. Susan Sanders said it doesn’t feel like clerical work. She said she thinks of a type writer and people typing when she hears clerical work. 911 Communications is nothing like that. Clerical jobs don’t save people’s lives daily and deal with the emotional impact of horrible situations. Sissy explained that clerical work is far from what her job is.

She thinks dispatchers should be listed as first responders because they’re the ones who get the situations first. They’re the ones who answer the phone, understand what’s going on, try to solve the problem themselves, if not solve the problem, and then send information to firemen or policemen. I asked them if anyone could do their job like they do. Susan and Sissy said it takes a caring person who really wants to help and has a strong personality. I think everyone in the communications room portrays this and does an amazing

job every day. In April, Gwinnett is silently celebrating Communication week. We can all celebrate it by being thankful for

them and the job they do Julie Rizzo is a Freshman Student at Georgia Gwinnett College.

HELP WANTED Advertising Sales Executive Advertising Sales Account Executive for established, 28 year community newspaper that is growing rapidly. Candidates must be extremely articulate with strong communication skills and a team player. The ideal candidate will be professional, highly motivated, competitive, and energetic.

Experience in advertising sales a plus but not necessary.

To apply please email your resume to jobs@gwinnettcitizen.com

HELP WANTED Administrative Assistant for Industry Association

Full time position located in Lawrenceville, GA Requirements: Excellent knowledge of MS Office Outlook, Excel, Word, PowerPoint, etc. Working knowledge of Adobe Acrobat, InDesign and Adobe Creative Suite software is a plus Experience with website content management systems needed. Proven use of email service provider platform. Constant Contact desired. Must be a self-starter and have the ability to work unsupervised at times.

2+ years’ experience Email resume w/ CL to: spencer@georgiamanufacturing.com

Graphic Artist/Production Layout Artist Required minimum two (2) years exp in publishing/graphics field.

Must be proficient on Macintosh computer using Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator. Ability to work with photography and retouch images. Must be highly organized and can work in quick paced office.

Strong time management skills - able to work (in an organized fashion) to meet deadlines. Comfortable taking and following direction. Working knowledge of basic web design a plus.

Duties Include: Formating copy, position graphics and complete page layout following directors’ specifications and needs, understanding/implementing editorial design. Responsible for ensuring that every page of the product maintains a consistent look and that all materials adhere to production specifications to accurately manage content and preflight files. Some basic Graphic Design responsibilities.

Balance and shift priorities to work efficiently across multiple teams in a fast-paced environment.

Full Time position with a rapidly growing newspaper.

To apply please email your resume to jobs@gwinnettcitizen.com

HELP WANTED Local financial services office looking for independent reps.

Sales and management.

Must be 18+, we pay licensing, you bring the work ethic.

Are you licensed, looking for a new home?

We are looking for you.

Call

678-888-2094

TO PLACE A

Classified AD

info@gwinnettcitizen.com OR call (770) 963-3699

SERVICES WELCOME COMBAT VETS Combat Veterans...

Join Us Break Bread and Socialize 29th of Each Month •WWII •Viet Nam •Korean •Afghan •Iraq We have been meeting for about 10 years.

Relax with us at lunch, bond with new friends, and enjoy open conversation.

For more information Call Marion J NeSmith, Sr. 770-978-1131

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 22

The Gwinnett Roadrunner

March 2017

“ON THE RUN” By Mar y Frazier Long • The Georgia Retired Educators Museum is open for visitors on March 7, 14, 15 and 16 or by scheduling an appointment for a guided tour call the state office at 770-287-7721.

• The Lawrenceville Neighborhood Alliance will meet Tuesday March 14 at 7 pm. The meeting will be held at the Lawrenceville Presbyterian Church on Lawrenceville Highway. Dennis Billew will answer questions about the two way traffic conversion near the square in Downtown Lawrenceville.

Mary Frazier Long

Gwinnett County Author, Historian

Pictured Right: Wow. Guess Who.

March 17 is St. Patrick’s Day, Dublin, Georgia celebrates with a parade and Savannah celebrates!

QUOTABLES “Freedom is never really won. You earn it and win it in every generation.”

Coretta Scott King “We make our friends, we make our enemies; but God makes our next door neighbor.” G.K. Chesterton The advantage of studying history is that it keeps you from feeling too important.

“Gentlemen we’re surrounded by insurmountable opportunities.” Pogo You can tell when you’re on the right road, it’s uphill.

PAST EVENTS IN GWINNETT • Bona Allen began work in Buford in 1873.

• In 1897 there was a move to make Buford the county seat town of Gwinnett.

• From the Buford Advertiser, March 15, 1923: “Saul’s in Buford advertised all prices have been shook down to level of working man’s money— come before breakfast, bring your dinner and stay until after supper.”

• News came in from Happy Hills, Dusty Hills, Ivy Creek, Harmony, New Prospect.

• The News-Herald March 15, 1934 advertised: “Ruben’s Beauty Shop. phone number 7” • News-Herald March 19, 1941: “The PTA was reorganized in Lawrenceville schools. President Mrs. John B. Roan V.P. Mrs. Sam Allison, Secretary Mrs. W.M. Barnett and Treasurer Annie Frances Flanigan.”

• Travis Cooper and Jimmy Brannon were co-captains of the first Lawrenceville High School football team in 1952.

• Basketball cheerleaders for the LHS team in 1953 were Betty Jo Mahaffy, Glenda Edge, Carol Story and Betty Robinson, Marie Freeman, Patricia Roebuck, Jean Langston, Reba Townley.

GWINNETT HISTORICAL SOCIETY The January 23 General Membership meeting program was presented by Linda Hughes and Kathryn Gray White co-authors of the book What We Talk about When We’re Over 60. The authors gave a talk on the power of writing your own story with interesting ideas about keeping an account of your life in book form.

GRAYSON HIGH SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION This association will meet on March 25, 2017 for the twenty first annual re-

We can’t leave, the basket’s not full union. The buffet luncheon will be held at Grayson High School on Hope Hollow Road and registration will begin at 10:30 A.M. and the program will begin at 11:30 A.M. President Susan Gerard will conduct the meeting. This is a great time for those who went to Grayson High School to renew friendships and see some of the teachers.

NEW SNELLVILLE CITY HALL MEMORIAL As part of his Eagle Scout project Kevin Amin obtained a piece of the World Trade Center from the 9/11 tragedy in New York and that piece is on top of the memorial on the lawn of Snellville City Hall.

Mary Long Photo

INTERESTING READ

MARCH OPPORTUNITIES • The Gwinnett County Retired Educators Association will meet at the Payne Corley House in Duluth on March 17, 2017. The luncheon meeting begins at 11. The March meeting will feature a speaker discussing legislative and civic concerns.

• The Gwinnett Historical Society will meet at 7 pm on March 20. The Campground will be the topic for the program.

• LHS Class of 1949 members meet for lunch at noon on March 6 at the Local Republic, 139 North Perry Street in Lawrenceville.

Carole Townsend with her book Blood in the Soil

Mary Long Photo

BETA RHO LITERACY PROJECT The Beta Rho Chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society provided books for each kindergartener at Baggett and Alford Elementary schools in Gwinnett County. The books were packaged by members of the Society at their meeting on February 4, 2017. Chapter president announced that the books were donated in memory of Mary Pickens and Geraldine Tilson. Suzanne Skeen will distribute the books at Baggett and Mei Brand will distribute them at Alford in March when Read Across America will celebrate the legacy of Dr. Seuss. Suzanne Skeen and Jan Perry are co-chairs of the Literacy Committee.

Mary Long Photo

Lou Bryant Beta Rho President

Mary Long Photo

Beta Rho member Nona Hodges AP at Sweetwater Middle School

Mary Long Photo

Mei Brasel, Alford Kindergarten and Melissa Hervey, Alford school Media Center

Mary Long Photo

Gloria James retired from Lawrenceville Elementary school

Mary Long Photo

Geri Flanary teaches AP World History at Duluth High Schol

Mary Long Photo

Beta Rho members Jimmie Sosebee and Jan Perry

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 23

REBA BROOKS BRIDGES

Mary Long Photo

Reba Bridges with LHS friends from Class of 1949. Left to right Sue Gunter, Opal Gunter, Sula Clack, Reba Bridges, Grace Cain, Geraldine Keller, Ruth Greene. Photo taken by Mary Long in 2006

The Memorial Service honoring the life of Reba Brooks Bridges was held at Flanigan Funeral Home in Buford on Friday February 17. Reba was born in Loganville and spent most of her school days in Lawrenceville, graduating from Lawrenceville High School with the Class of 1949. Members of Reba’s high school class who attended her service were Grace Britt Cain, Sula Puckett Clack, Geraldine Butler Keller, Joyce Jones Reed, Mary Frazier Long and Bryant Huff. Reba was preceded in death by her husband Bobby Bridges, her parents Autie and Flossie Brooks, her brother Jerry Brooks and her son John Bennett (Ben) Bridges. Surviving Reba are her daughter Lyn Bridges Mills and her husband Mike Mills, her son William Michael (Bill) and Cathie Lord. Grandchildren Brad Mills, Jennifer and Will Peters, Jake and Ashley Lord, Tanner Charles Bridges. Great grandchildren Gabe and Megan Peters Caleb, Jacob and Rebecca Peters, Liam Lord, Great great- grandchildren Blake and Presley Peters.

Photos from the Past GRAYSON HIGH REUNIONS

Mary Long Photo

The first Grayson Alumni event planners back row Unidentified, Raymond Henderson, Margie Knight McBryar, Hilda K. Underwood, Jo Wade Hewatt.. Seated Betty Brooks Huston, Charlotte Brooks Briscoe, Cornelia Brooks Guthrie, Bobbye Brooks Pratt.

Mary Long Photo

The 2002 Reunion, Jo Knight Puckett, Jerry Downs and Bernice Killcreas Dixon with the Book About Grayson written by Bernice.

Mary Long Photo

2009 Norris Long, Jo Knight and Rebecca Mason with Nell Foster Brooks.

Mary Long Photo

2011 President Ada Millinax with VP Susan Gerard

Mary Long Photo

2003 Neil Timms, Don Phillips, with his wife were educators at Grayson High school

Mary Long Photo

2002 photo Edith Kemp, Jack Britt and Margie McBryar.

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 24

March 2017

Knight Elementary Teaching Garden added to “Behind the Garden Gate” Tour The Victory Garden

The Storybook ‘Beds’

Special Photo

There are two Storybook ‘Beds’. These beds are located at the entrance of the learning area and welcome visitors with an excerpt from the story each one repreSpecial Photo sents. Every year these beds are adopted by a class. The students choose a favorite The Victory Garden is reminiscent of the World War 1 & 2 eras. As fifth graders learn about these wars and life on the home front, garden themed book they’ve read in class. The class chooses the vegetables, plants them, and maintains the bed. this garden helps them make a real-life connection to their curriculum.

By Brenda Dana Lilburn Womens Club The GFWC Lilburn Woman’s Club is delighted to announce the participation of the Knight Elementary School Teaching Garden to our 4th annual “Behind the Garden Gate” tour of Lilburn area gardens on Saturday, May 13, 2017, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The proceeds from the Behind the Garden Gate tour will be used to assist our local public school counselors in providing much needed articles of clothing, glasses and school related items to children in real need in the Lilburn community.

Knight Elementary’s garden was designed to reconnect students with nature, thereby improving the health and well-being of the children, their environment, and the school’s community. It is Knight’s educational philosophy that students who take part in environmentally-themed outdoor learning activities

The Trellis Garden perform better in core academic subjects such as math, reading, science and writing – as well as become better stewards of the environment.

You won’t want to miss the Pioneer Garden which enhances the students’ understanding of Westward Expansion, the Victory Garden reminiscent of World War I and II eras, the Rainbow Garden teaching students the importance of pollination, and the Trellis Garden of beans which is a favorite of the students where they have added a stone pathway. The Music Garden features a guitar playing praying mantis and wind chimes made from repurposed items. The Storybook Beds are each adopted by a class that selects a favorite garden themed book Special Photo read in class then planting vegetables and The Trellis Garden is a favorite of stuplants from the book and maintain the dents as beans grow up and over crebeds. ating an archway underneath. This year, students added a stone path and seeded small flowers around the stones.

See TOUR on Page 21

The Pioneer Garden

Special Photo

The Pioneer Garden is framed in wagon wheels. This garden is designed to enhance students’ understanding of Westward Expansion. German and Joselyn, Garden Club members, just finished planting egglants.

The Rainbow Garden

Special Photo

The Music Garden is set within a bed of Knock-Out roses. It features a guitar playing praying mantis as well a student created wind chimes made from repurposed items.

It reminds students that art and music fit into a garden as well.

The Rainbow Garden

Special Photo

The Rainbow Garden is the pollinator garden. Signs are displayed to teach students the importance of pollinators in the garden. It is also a favorite picture spot when we have our Knight in the Garden celebration each spring.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Special Photo

The Math Garden features 5 beds, all of which are regular polygons to reinforce hands on math skills for the students. The Math Garden also includes stepping stones featuring basic fractions and a number line painted along the edger stones. There are ‘flowers’ along the garden’s edge for teachers to post math questions for their lessons. Garden Club members Haiden and Anna are planting eggplants in the trapezoid bed.

The Dragon Bed

TOUR continued from page 20 For more information on Behind the Garden Gate Tour and how to purchase tickets visit www.lwcgardentour.org where you can purchase tickets for $15 per person using PayPal. Follow the directions and bring your receipt to the Will Call desk the day of the tour at Garden #1 located at 818 Tom Smith Road, Lilburn to pick up your ticket and tour map.

Tickets may also be purchased the day of the event for $20 per person at the Will Call desk. We hope you will come and explore the teaching garden at Knight Elementary along with the beauty and originality of the other gardens on the tour and enjoy the beauty that surrounds us in Lilburn!

Special Photo

The Dragon Bed features a variety of succulents. It is framed in lime-stone as well as having stone scales down it’s back. It provides the opportunity for students to compare and contrast different plants as well as sparking students’ imagination for writing.

Page 25

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 26

March 2017 HEARING continued from page 1

Special Photo

Barbara, her daughter Kelly and granddaughter Katie at Katie’s wedding shower eight months after the second cochlear implant, hearing all of the celebration.

nosed with the condition in 1999,” she shared. Meniere’s disease affects the inner ear and can cause vertigo, intermittent hearing loss and ultimately, a steady decline in hearing. At first, only Barbara’s right ear was affected. She began wearing a hearing aid in that ear, trying the “latest and greatest” every few years as her hearing continued to decline.

“In June 2010, I awoke to almost no hearing at all in my right ear. There was a moment of panic, and I quickly got to the Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) physician,” Barbara recalls. The doctor initially tried steroid therapy, but hearing in her right ear was not restored. She called and got the first available appointment for an evaluation, to determine whether she was a good candidate to receive a cochlear implant. The good news is that she was a good candidate, and the implant surgery was performed at Northside Hospital in September 2010.

Cindy Gary is the audiologist who worked with Barbara. “A multi-channel cochlear implant is the industry standard now. It was approved in 1985,” Gary said.

But what determines whether a person is a good candidate for a cochlear implant?

“FDA guidelines say that a person who struggles with hearing sixty percent or fewer sentences (recorded and listened to in controlled circumstances), then that person is a good candidate. However, Medicare guidelines tell us that the person must be struggling to the extent that they hear forty percent or fewer of those same sentences under the same conditions,” Gary stated. Too, since the implant surgery takes about an hour, a person who is considered high risk under anesthesia may not be a good candidate for cochlear implants. Gary is also quick to point out that, if the patient’s hearing is corrected well enough with a hearing aid, then cochlear implant would not be the prescribed treatment for that individual.

Over the years, hearing in her left ear had also begun to decline, and Barbara received a second cochlear implant in August 2015. “I was 62 years old when I received the first implant, and 67 when I received the second. They changed my life,” she said. For example, Barbara is thankful that, by the time the Meniere’s disease had severely impacted her ability to hear, she was already working in management positions. Had she still been interacting with and treating patients, she could not have trusted what she heard through a stethoscope. Often, she had to ask people to repeat what they had said to her, and by her own account, that would not have been a good situation if she had still been working with patients.

Dennis McGowan, Barbara’s husband of 46 years, has navigated these uncertain waters with her, and his help and support have been crucial. In fact, their 3 children and 4 grandchildren live nearby, and having the support of her entire family has given her comfort and reassurance through the years of hearing loss and eventually, the two implant procedures. In return, she says, she has provided them with some entertainment over the years. “I often misinterpreted what they were saying, and my responses sometimes resulted in some good laughs all around.”

Barbara is a member of a big club, one that gets bigger every year. As a woman who enjoyed normal hearing for most of her life, learning to communicate using sign language was not an option for her; it wasn’t even something she considered. The technology of the cochlear implant gave her the more desirable option of medically treating the hearing loss, allowing her to live the life she has built and loves with as little change as possible. “Without the implants, my life would have drastically changed. I wanted to remain a part of the hearing world,”

Special Photo

Barbara McGowan enjoying the Alaska cruise that had to be postponed for the first cochlear implant. she said.

Grateful every day for the implants, Barbara says that she would not be able to do her job. She wouldn’t be able to enjoy social activities, listen to the radio or even the television, at normal volume. She would not be able to enjoy conversations without constantly having to ask people to repeat themselves. She wouldn’t be able to hear colleagues sitting around a conference table. Laughing, she also adds that she can now go to a drive-up window at a fast food restaurant and hear the person taking her order. And perhaps best of all, since she doesn’t wear the external sound processors to bed at night, she sleeps like a baby.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 27

Weddings, Engagements & Announcements Engagements, Weddings, Births and Anniversaries are complimentary.

Email your announcement to: info@gwinnettcitizen.com or mail to: The Gwinnett Citizen, PO Box 966,Grayson, GA 30017

Congratulations Mr. & Mrs. Noah Richardson

Olivia and Noah Richardson Olivia Kathryn Payne and Noah Patrick Richardson were united in mar-

Special Photo

riage on Sunday, October 9, 2016. The ceremony took place at one o’clock pm

at Vecoma at the Yellow River. The bride wore a beautiful white organza ball gown with a sparkling lace overlay and fingertip veil. She was given in marriage by her parents, and was escorted down the aisle to her anxiously awaiting groom by her father.

The ceremony was officiated by Dr. David Grubbs, grandfather of the groom, who had some very lighthearted stories to share about his grandson during the ceremony.

The bride is the daughter of Angie and Dan Murchison and Scott and Amy Payne of Lawrenceville. Olivia is the granddaughter of Hazel Payne of Covington, Georgia and the late Amos Payne and the late Stanley and Shirley Kinney of Fayetteville, Georgia,.

The groom is the son of Jeff and MaryKay Wood of Cumming, Georgia.

Noah is the grandson of David and Lanie Grubbs of Cumming, Georgia, and Patrick and Gretchen Richardson of Woodstock, Georgia.

Elizabeth Bradley, sister of the bride, served as the Maid of Honor. Nicole Caldwell, Emily Hall, and Mackenzie Richardson served as bridesmaids, and Isaac Carrasquilla and Jonathan Kuehl served as bridesmen. Lynlee Wood served as Flower Girl. Noah’s Best Man was Zander Mossman of Denton, Texas, and his groomsmen were Gery Dempsey, Bailey Richardson, Carson Richardson, Aidan Wood, and Nathan Wright. Briggs Warlick served as Ring Bearer.

After a week long honeymoon in Orlando doing what they love best, hanging out and having fun, the happy couple is now residing in Buford with their furry feline friends, Luna and Albus.

Permanently Flawless

Barbie Conner, RN Lash Fantasy

Imagine the ease of never having to worry about your eye makeup again.

That dream is a reality in today’s world of permanent makeup. There are a few reasons that clients seek our services for permanent makeup.

Busy moms or busy professionals don’t want to take lots of time with daily makeup. Athletic clients and fitness instructors want to look “put together” when playing tennis, teaching classes, etc. Some are frustrated with no longer being able to see how to apply makeup as well as in younger years. Regardless of the reason, permanent makeup has been

a great relief for many of our customers.

There are many different options for permanent makeup. A client who is looking to create the illusion of fuller lashes may opt to have Lash Filler PermaMakeup applied. In this treatment, pigment is gently implanted into the spaces between the eyelashes of the eyelid. This pigment adds to the color of the base of the lash, creating the illusion of thicker, more dense lashes.

This treatment is virtually painless and is completed in two visits. Clients who want a more dramatic effect for the eye area on a daily basis may opt for Eyeliner PermaMakeup. With this treatment, pigment is applied to the skin just above

the lashline to give the appearance of “made up” peepers 24 hours a day. The same may be applied with the Eyebrow PermaMakeup. Pigment is applied to the natural line of the eyebrows, making the thinnest of brows look fuller and making the face look younger. Clients are thrilled to be able to go swimming, perspire or just be able to trust that their makeup always looks great with no raccoon eyes!

Clients who are interested in a PermaMakeup appointment will start with a free consultation appointment, where we’ll discuss the look, color, your health and lifestyle history and any other important information. As a registered nurse, I consider your health and safety to be number one in planning your treatment. The process will typically take 3 hours, depending on the site, and a touch up visit will be scheduled to make sure we achieve your best result.

Many clients have enjoyed life with our unique Fantasy Suites PermaMakeup. Many have gone on to top this amazing result with our beautiful, natural lash extensions. As an incentive to find out more about PermaMakeup and the other incredible services at The Fantasy Suites, schedule your consultation today. Book online at www.thefantasysuites or call 770-744-1527.

BUY ONE SANDWICH PLATE GET 1/2 OFF THE SECOND PLATE LIMIT ONE PER CUSTOMER

OFFER EXP. 3/31/17 Z1

770-995-0065 169 A West Pike Street • Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Facebook.com/ BlueRoosterontheSquare w w w. B l u e R o o s t e r B a k e S h o p . c o m

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 28

March 2017

Don’t Fall For These Common Colorectal Cancer Myths Did you know that colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths? If you didn’t, you’ve likely fallen for some of the common myths about colorectal cancer. Perhaps you’ve heard that it’s something that only affects older men, or that it can’t be prevented— neither of which is true.

While colorectal cancer may be one of the most deadly types of cancer, it’s also one of the most preventable and treatable.

Amy McEachin, RN, oncology support clinic manager at Gwinnett Medical Center, provides some simple tips like eating a healthy diet rich in fresh produce, staying at a healthy weight, not smoking and limiting alcohol, all of which can make a big impact in colorectal cancer prevention. “Don’t forget,” Amy adds, “that learning more about colorectal cancer and its common myths are also essential for prevention and early detection.”

Myth 1: If I don’t have symptoms, I don’t have colorectal cancer.

Surprisingly, most people with colorectal cancer don’t have symptoms at all. Even in the event that symptoms are evident, they’re often assumed to be the result of other medical conditions.

Some of the most common symptoms include: changes in stool, rectal bleeding, tiredness, persistent gas pain, bloating and unexplained weight loss. However, it’s important to note that by the time you notice symptoms, this may indicate that

the cancer is at a more advanced stage.

Myth 2: Colonoscopies are uncomfortable and painful.

In this case, its name gives it a bad rap. Colonoscopies are not nearly as unpleasant as you may think. All in all, the procedure itself will last just 15 to 30 minutes, during which you are given sedating medication through an IV as you lay on your side.

When the scope is inserted, you may feel slight pressure, similar to the feeling of needing to have a bowel movement; however, many individuals don’t feel anything. When it comes to pre-test and posttest steps, your doctor will make sure you feel prepared and comfortable.

Myth 3: Only older white men get colorectal cancer.

While colonoscopies are primarily recommended for adults over 50, this doesn’t mean that it doesn’t impact people of all ages. In fact, some studies have found that colorectal cancer is becoming more prevalent in adults ages 20 to 49.

Furthermore, colorectal cancer isn’t limited to just men; it affects both men and women of all races and ethnicities.

Myth 4: Colorectal cancer can’t be prevented.

This is far from the truth. Oftentimes, colorectal cancer begins with a small polyp, or growth on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Most polyps are benign, which means they aren’t cancerous. But

over time, some polyps can begin growing abnormally, becoming cancerous. Enter colonoscopies, one of the best ways to find polyps before they become cancerous.

In addition to preventative screenings, there are key lifestyle factors that can significantly reduce your risk for colorectal cancer, including: Staying at a healthy weight Not smoking Getting regular physical activity (getting at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise daily) Limiting alcohol (no more than 2 drinks in a day for men and 1 drink a day for women) Eating a healthy diet (more fruits, veggies and fish, limit red and processed meats) Myth 5: Colonoscopies are the only type of screening.

In addition to colonoscopies, you can utilize colorectal screening kits. These kits detect the presence of blood in the stool, which can indicate a precancerous polyp or growth. Furthermore, these screening kits are surprisingly easy to use; after having a bowel movement, you simply put a reactive strip in the toilet and it will change color if blood is detected.

These effective kits are a great way to begin screening for colorectal cancer.

Remember, though, that depending on your personal risk factors for colorectal cancer, like age, family history and life-

Special Photo

style, it’s important to get colonoscopies as often as your doctor recommends.

Myth 6: Colorectal cancer is genetic.

While there are some inherited conditions that can increase your risk for colorectal cancer, it is estimated that nearly 75 percent of colorectal cancer cases occur in individuals with no familial history of the disease.

Remember, there are a number of risk factors that can increase your likelihood of developing colorectal cancer, family history being just one of them.

It’s important to note, though, that if you do have a family history of colorectal cancer, familial adenomatous polyposis

or lynch syndrome, you may need to start screenings earlier and have them more frequently. Check with your doctor for the recommended age you should start screening.

Making colorectal health easy.

This year alone, 140,000 adults will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. But with an extensive array of resources available to you through Gwinnett Medical Center, you can learn more about colorectal cancer, screen for it and treat it. Get started with colorectal cancer prevention today by ordering your free screening kit online by visiting gwinnettmedicalcenter. org/kit or by calling 678-312-5000 and select option 1.

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 29

Page 30

Visit www.GwinnettCitizen.com for more local news!

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

What is a cataract?

Richard Carlin, MD Carlin Vision

A cataract is a cloudiness of the lens inside of the eye caused by a build-up of denatured proteins. When a cataract forms, it prevents light from passing through the lens onto the retina (the back of your eye). Cataracts are progressive and worsen over time. They are a

natural part of the aging process and affect more than 22 million Americans.

In fact, cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 40 and are the principal cause of blindness in the world.

Cataracts cause diminished vision and, if left untreated, the potential of total vision loss. An ophthalmologist will dilate your eyes to determine whether or not you have a cataract. It is not detectable with the naked eye unless it is very dense.

There are different types of cataracts. The most common are nuclear, cortical and posterior sub-capsular. A nuclear cataract forms in the center of the lens and causes it to become yellow or brown. A cortical cataract forms around the edge and is characterized by white opacities that start in the periphery of the lens and work their way to the center. A posterior sub-capsular cataract forms in

the back part of the lens near the lens capsule.

Cataracts generally develop slowly with no pain, but some can be rapidly progressive. The vision can become blurry, hazy and foggy and colors may appear faded and dull. Some of the most common symptoms are increased glare and light sensitivity. Night-driving can become more troublesome due to rings of light and halos.

Patients experience different symptoms with cataracts. If your vision is bothersome, please contact CarlinVision at 770.979.2020 or www.carlinvision.com so one of our board-certified ophthalmologists can determine the reason you aren’t seeing as clearly as you should. If you have a cataract, we will teach you about the condition and all of your treatment options.

Have You Had A Concussion?

Paige Havens

The Concussion Discussion

It’s funny how often people I talk to about concussion say, “I bet I’ve had a concussion and just didn’t know it.” I’m always puzzled by that statement. The signs and symptoms are so clear. How could you not know that you had a brain injury?

Well, as it turns out, I experienced my first concussion back in December and I’m here to tell you that it may not be as obvious as you think. Let me share the story with you.

My husband and I were traveling over the weekend and had stopped at a hotel for the night. I realized I had left my phone charger in the car, so I made a quick trip

to the parking lot. I clicked open the rear hatch window to our SUV and, as I reached in, the window fell and hit my head full force. After spouting a few choice words, I shook it off and returned to our room. A goose-egg popped up immediately and my head began to pound. Even as much as I know about concussions, my first thought was not, “Gosh, do I have a concussion?” It was just the hatch window, right?

The next morning my head was sore and continued to pound, but we needed to stay on schedule to get back on the road.

I took a Tylenol and pressed on. As we drove down the highway I felt woozy and nauseated, but sometimes I get carsick.

Though it was cloudy, the day seemed exceptionally bright. I should have remembered to bring my sunglasses.

As we drove I sat thinking about how we needed to get the hinges on the hatch window fixed. The more I thought about it the more irritated I got. I found myself angry about the whole situation and rather snippy with my husband. No matter what he said to me that morning all I could do was either snap back or cry. I was just tired from the trip, right?

Then there was the ongoing debate about directions. I couldn’t seem to remember the names of the roads that I was to help watch for. But why did I need to with the GPS leading the way?

After a long day’s trip we finally made it home and I was exhausted. I went straight to bed feeling so overwhelmed. I just knew I would feel so much better after a good night’s sleep.

Well, Monday came and as I sat down to work at my computer, I felt like everything was moving in slow motion. Even after a strong cup of coffee, my mind felt foggy and I struggled to focus. My to-do list seemed impossible. Just another Monday, right?

I called my best friend to share details of the weekend and recounted my clumsy episode. As I began to tell her how things unfolded, I heard myself tick off a multitude of concussion symptoms… headache, nausea, sensitivity to light, irritability, anxiety, heightened emotions, difficulty thinking clearly, feeling tired and slowed down, trouble remembering new information. Lo and behold, it hit me like a freight train – I HAD A CONCUSSION! Slowly but surely the symptoms had swept over me. They weren’t obvious at first. I could easily explain them away on everyday circumstances. But when I added them all up, I was clearly concussed.

So if you hit your head, pay close attention.

Be honest with yourself about how you feel. Don’t explain away the symptoms.

Call your doctor. It is a brain injury. Take it seriously!

My clients want to continue to care for themselves while going through cancer treatment, and I must make sure they are properly treated with safe products.

Not only am I thrilled with this program, but my company has made skin care affordable while patients are going through treatment programs by reducing the price of these specialized treatments.”

Both patients and caretakers can take advantage of a price point that is only available while undergoing cancer treatment.

To compliment SideStep treatment protocols for the cancer patient, About Face has also formulated two products that are formulated and certified by “Oncology Spa Solutions” branded FASIX. FASIX is About Face Skin Care’s own line of oncology approved skin care products that are safe for skin. FASIX is a quality line of products that will not conflict with cancer therapies. There are currently three Oncology Certified Providers on staff at About Face Skin

Care to provide facials for these special clients.

Although clients enjoy an intimate, relaxing and rejuvenating atmosphere at About Face, the medical training and experience of the staff differentiates this practice from other skin care/spa services. About Face is owned by Chrissy Thomas, a registered nurse, with over 20 years in the anti-aging industry. The practice is overseen by treating and delegating physician Dr. Tina Thompson.

Medical guidance enables About Face Skin Care to access the most advanced skin care training and technology to produce better and longer-lasting results. In addition, About Face offers pharmaceutical-grade products—which are highly effective and sold exclusively to healthcare professionals. Their medical direction and expertise also enables the practice to understand their clients’ health concerns to ensure the best and safest results for skin care needs.

About Face Skin Care celebrates launch of oncology aesthetics program “SideStep” Program Welcomes Patients Undergoing Cancer

With only two days until WORLD CANCER DAY, About Face Skin Care, LLC, a fifteen year old medical spa practice specializing in non-invasive skin rejuvenation is excited and honored to announce Side Step Oncology Aesthetics.

CEO/Owner of About Face Skin Care, Chrissy Thomas, RN, BSN said, “I first began to think about this program (SideStep) in the early years of my business in 2002. I was still a ‘one person show’, and with about 250 clients.

I had very little variety in my products and services, and very little knowledge about caring for these special cases.

Unfortunately, these diagnoses are far too common. Fortunately, there have been great strides in curing cancer.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 31

Eastside Medical Physicians Corner

“Eating for Two: Quality Not Quantity” NUTRITION DURING PREGNANCY

By Vonda R. Ware, MD Eastside Medical Group, Gwinnett Gynecology and Maternity 1800 Tree Lane, Suite 300, Snellville, GA, 30078 Gwinnett-Gyn.com This month we are celebrating National Nutrition Month. It is key to remember the importance of proper nutrition in every stage of life- including pregnancy. In the past, pregnant women were often told to “eat for two.” This is still true---to a point. We now know that you can’t just eat twice as much as you normally do. It is the quality and not quantity of what we eat. Finding a balance between getting enough nutrients to fuel your baby’s growth and maintaining a healthy weight is important for your and your baby’s future. Good nutrition is needed to meet the added demands on your body as well as those of your growing baby. Healthy eating during pregnancy involves eating a balanced diet with the addition of a few extra well-chosen calories. A pregnant woman who has a body mass index (BMI) in the normal range before pregnancy needs, on average, only 300 extra calories a day--the amount in a glass of skim milk or half a sandwich.

Nutrients are the building blocks of the body. Proteins, carbohydrates, and fats are important nutrients needed to

Special Photo

Dr. Vonda R. Ware, MD

support the growth of your baby. Proper and adequate nutrients during pregnancy safeguards your own health and contributes to your baby’s normal development.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has made it even easier by creating www. choosemyplate.gov to plan healthy meals while you are pregnant. The “MyPlate” website can help pregnant women learn how to make healthy food choices at every meal. This program is based on the five food groups: grains, fruits, vegetables, protein foods, and dairy.

Vitamins and minerals play important roles in all of your body functions. During pregnancy, you need more folic acid and iron than a woman who is not pregnant. Taking prenatal vitamin supplements can ensure that you are

getting these extra amounts. Folic acid, also known as folate, is a B vitamin that is important before and during pregnancy.

You need 400 micrograms of folic acid to help prevent major birth defects of the baby’s brain and spine, called neural tube defects. Current dietary guidelines recommend that pregnant women get at least 600 micrograms of folic acid daily.

Calcium and vitamin D are used to build your baby’s bones and teeth.

All women, including pregnant women, should get 1,000 mg of calcium daily and 600 IU of Vitamin D a day. Milk and dairy products, such as cheese and yogurt, are the best sources of calcium. Good sources of vitamin D are mildly fortified with vitamin D and fatty fish, such as salmon. Exposure to sunlight also converts to vitamin D. Most experts state that consuming fewer than 200mg of caffeine (one 12ounce cup of coffee) a day during pregnancy is safe. Some types of fish have higher levels of a metal called mercury than others. Mercury has been linked to birth defects. Choose fish and shellfish such as shrimp, salmon, catfish, and pollock. Do NOT eat shark, swordfish, king mackerel, or tilefish. Limit white (albacore) tuna to 6 ounces a week. Listeriosis is a type of food-borne illness caused by bacteria. Pregnant women are 13 times more likely to get Listeriosis than the general population. To help prevent listeriosis, avoid eating hot dogs, luncheon meats, and cold cuts unless they are heated until steaming hot just before serving.

Quality of food selection and proper

exercise will help you maximize your health and the health of your baby. If you are normal weight before pregnancy, you should gain approximately 25lbs during pregnancy. Overweight and obese women are at an increased risk for several pregnancy problems.

Remember to choose the best foods for yourself and your baby. Work with your provider to achieve success in proper nutritional selections and you will be on your way to a happy and healthy mother and baby!

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 32

March 2017

Investment Multiplied

By Dustin Mattox NG3 Grayson No one wants to make a financial investment with their hard earned money only to see it sit static, or even worse, depreciate. While not many people want to sit and take financial advice from me, there is one thing that I do get well, and that’s people. The investment that we make into people’s lives, we want to see it be multiplied. We all have a high calling to care for the people that are in our lives.

NG3 Grayson is no different.

We want multiplication. The Grayson Community has answered the call over the last 6 years, and supported our program at Grayson High School well. Our only response across the campus was to multiply. We have been blessed with several faithful volunteers at NG3 Grayson.

And Grayson HS is also blessed to have a great group of coaches and teachers who really go above and beyond for these students. From the earliest days until now, the goal has been the same, which is to have a volunteer working

with every sport and walking alongside these incredible coaches. If that becomes a reality, more character development will be taking place, more students will be engaged in community service projects, and more students will have opportunities to be a part of off-campus bible studies and Huddles. And that’s what we are pursuing. The next generation is worth our time and efforts, and we believe in them deeply.

I know that they say a picture is worth a thousand words, but this one is worth more than that to me. Each one of these people pictured (and there are some who are not pictured) are committed to the next generation. They sacrifice time and energy from their own families to pour into others, and we have so much fun doing this together. This is truly a picture of the community coming together for a common goal.

To find out more of how you can partner with NG3, please visit www.ng3.org.

And we invite you to make plans to attend this year’s annual Faith In Sports banquet, which will be held at The

Special Photo

2016-2017 NG3 Grayson Volunteer Team: back row, left to right: Chase Grindstaff, Shawn Browne, Bill Potter, Todd Howard, Daniel Frost, Jonas Chambliss. Front row left to right: Darren Stout, Cliff Hagan, Jamie Merritt, Dustin Mattox, Ayana Stinson, David Sheldon and Brandon Sisson. Not pictured: Taylor Donohue, Sandy Sisson and Brandon Bosson.

Engine Room in Monroe, GA on March 24th, at 6:30pm. Tickets are on sale now through our website. It will be a great time to learn more about NG3, meet all the great people involved and to invest financially in the next generation.

Together....we can Be the difference!

NG3 PO Box 1429 Snellville, GA 30078 www.ng3.org

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

The Ever-Changing Landscape of Gwinnett

When Gwinnett County was founded in 1818, on land largely ceded by the Cherokee and Creek Indians, it was virtually a wilderness. But change came quickly. The city of Lawrenceville was incorporated and established as the county seat in 1821 and by 1850 the city had a population of 11,257.

Through the early 1900s, county population grew at a moderate pace and a smattering of small towns sprang up throughout the county. Some were established at crossroads, others, including Norcross, Duluth, Suwanee, and Buford, were built along the Danville and Piedmont railroad line which was constructed in 1871.

Many Gwinnett County towns ultimately became incorporated municipalities and each developed a unique small city personality and appearance. As the county continued to grow, much of what distinguished one city from another became homogenized along separate corridors of active growth.

As the county approaches its 200year anniversary, the landscape continues to change as some cities are striving to create a town center/downtown while others have recently built a new one or are revitalizing an existing downtown area. The challenges vary from one locale to another, but the goal is the same- to provide residents with a walkable source of pride that provides a variety of shopping, eating and living options.

The new focus is bringing a dramatic change to the suburban landscapes

across the county. For decades, the lure of Gwinnett County was a lifestyle that was unavailable in large cities and highly developed suburban locales—an affordable house on at least a quarter of an acre, two cars in the garage and plenty of open space.

Even after the population surge of the 1980s when, for a number of years, Gwinnett was the fastest growing county in the nation, traditional suburban housing options are still abundant. A single family house on large lot is still the embodiment of the American dream for some people. And that dream continues to become a reality for many county residents. But a steadily increasing percentage of the population is looking for something else. Oddly enough, “aging” baby boomers are joined by 20 and 30-something millennials in a desire to live in a place where it’s an easy walk from home to shopping, dining, entertainment and perhaps even their workplace. They also want trails where they can walk, bike or run without having to battle with vehicles.

But the “new American dream” lifestyle doesn’t end with people who want to be free of the yard work that comes with a house on a large lot. Many people want to take a short drive to their city’s center, park their car, and walk store-to-store while having the option to stop along the way for a meal, a cup of coffee or dessert.

There is also an identity aspect to the focus on town centers. In some instances, the suburban sprawl of the 1980s blurred the line between one city and the next, or between a city and the surrounding unincorporated area. In others, an existing “downtown” may have become neglected or virtually abandoned. Without a vibrant downtown or city center, a city has little or no compelling identity, which can have a negative effect on economic opportunities and property values.

Consequently, the new model for successful cities includes multi-use development and higher density population. The formula for success involves a symbiotic relationship between people and place; a downtown area can’t be successful without people, and people don’t want to live in an area that isn’t successful.

Page 33

Ask the Senior Care Expert

Should I file a long-term insurance claim?

Tim Golden BrightStar Care

Special Photo

I am sometimes asked this question by families needing care for a loved one.

These families are among the lucky ones in that they had the foresight to purchase long-term care insurance at a point in their life when they could qualify. Like most other insurance products, if you are at the point of needing to use the insurance it’s too late to buy a policy. You have to think ahead. The reasons for purchasing long-term care insurance are varied but usually the policy holder bought the insurance to cover potential expenses of future care but does not

want the cost of that care to be a burden the family. Given that rationale I am perplexed when families ask if they should file a claim. That’s why you bought the policy, right? However, long term care insurance almost always has a lifetime benefit limit. Once that lifetime benefit is used up, the cost of care must be covered some other way. So, you can see the dilemma – “If I exhaust my benefit and I am still in need of care how will I pay for it?”

Keep in mind that if the benefit is used up and the policy holder is still alive and in need of care, they are most likely at the point of greatest need. I think also there is a psychological aspect to filing a longterm care insurance claim. By filing a claim, policy holders are acknowledging that they can no longer go without help.

I think most people want to delay that acknowledgment as long as possible even if the reality is that they absolutely need help. Consequently, people hold onto their long-term care insurance and stress over whether or not they should file a claim. My perspective is entirely different. My response when asked about whether or not to file a claim is almost always “Why wouldn’t you file a claim?”

Most families asking me this question have been paying on their policies for years and in many cases decades. Once a claim is filed the insurance company initiates a process to determine whether the claim meets its standard to be paid.

The claim process involves filling out

forms and having a nurse come by to do a lengthy evaluation. If the claim is valid, meaning the policy holder really needs help and the insurance company agrees, the insurance company starts paying its benefit to the policy holder, as spelled out in the policy. If the insurance company determines that the claim does not meet its standard, then the insurance company won’t pay. There is no penalty for filing a claim that is later determined to not be valid. What I really hate seeing, and I’ve experienced this on multiple occasions, is a policy holder that has been paying on a policy for years and needs help but won’t file a claim and then passes away before ever using the policy. If you are fortunate enough to have the option of using longterm care insurance to help pay for the cost of care, why wouldn’t you use it? If you have questions about long-term care insurance or long-term care in general, feel free to reach out to me, “The Senior Care Expert”.

Tim Golden is the owner of BrightStar Care, Lawrenceville. For more information please visit http://www.brightstarcare. com/lawrenceville/ Tim Golden BrightStar Care (404)281-1537 PO Box 634 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 email: asktheseniorcareexpert@gmail.com

Live Local, Shop Local, Support Local Thank you to all our advertisers and community partners.

Contact the GWINNETT CITIZEN today to share your community news & inquire about advertising and partnering.

(770) 963-3699, info@gwinnettcitizen.com, gwinnettcitizen.com

Page 34

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

A Father’s Love

Jonathan Howe

Lead Pastor Graystone Church On Saturday, February 25, I had the privilege to escort my 8 year-old daughter to the Annual Father Daughter Dance at Grayson Elementary School.

This is one of our favorite nights of the year, and we actually count down the days and hours until the big event. We bought my daughter, Jessie, a new dress with matching shoes. She had her hair cut, styled and curled. I bought her a corsage for her wrist. I wore my light gray suit and picked a purple tie to match her dress. We met at a friend’s house before the dance and had our pictures professionally taken by www.375photography. com. We quadruple dated with 3 other little girls and their dads. We told the girls that we would take them to ANY restaurant they wanted, and price was not an issue. They unanimously chose Chick-Fil-A. When we arrived at the dance promptly at 7:00 PM, the first thing Jessie wanted to do was visit the dessert bar provided by Special Kneads and Treats.

She could not wait to dip strawberries and marshmallows into the chocolate fountain. She’s a girl after my own heart.

After loading up on chocolate and sweets, we went to the dance being held in the school gym. Jessie loves to dance. She danced with her girl friends. She danced with her dad. She danced by herself. I wish you could have seen her through my eyes. Jessie loves life. She has no inhibitions, and she cares very little about

other people’s opinions. She is perfectly imperfect.

When Jessie and I dance together, she loves to twirl under my hand. She loves to twist into my body, lie into my arms, and fall backward for a big dip.

Then, she puckers up and kisses the air in my direction. We repeated this dance move dozens of times in the course of the two-hour event.

We did the chicken dance. We did the cha-cha slide. We did the whip and nae nae. And we danced to many other songs that Jessie knows all the words to because she has an older teenage sister.

In fact, this is my ninth Father Daughter Dance. I got to escort my older daughter, Julia, to six Father Daughter Dances.

She misses them and is jealous of her little sister.

The Father Daughter Dance is one of those moments that fathers and daughters will cherish our entire lives. When Jessie and I were slow dancing to the song, Cinderella, Jessie got tears in her eyes. She said they were happy tears.

She said that she never wants to grow up.

By the time the clock struck 9:00, Jessie was completely spent. She left it all on the dance floor. Of course, we hit the chocolate fountain again on the way out the door. Her dad has a hook up with the owners of Special Kneads and Treats.

On the ride home, Jessie said that it was the “Best Day Ever”. She also said that I was “the best daddy that she could ever want”. Not that I am a crier or anything, but this brought moisture to my eyes. Jessie and I only have two more Father Daughter Dances together, and then, she is off to the big middle school.

Words cannot express how much I love my baby girl. Words cannot express how much I love all three of my kids. I have a unique bond and special memories with each of them. The faster they grow up, the more I cherish every opportunity I have to spend with them. When my son calls from college, I pick up the phone. When my older daughter asks me to play tennis with her, I drop whatever I’m doing and I play with her.

Do you know that we have a

Special photo

Reverend Jonathan Howe and daughter Jessie ready for the annual school Father Daughter Dance Heavenly Father that loves us? In fact, God loves us more than we can imagine.

Jesus said, “If you, then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good gifts to those who ask him (Matthew 7:11)!” It’s hard to believe, but God loves us even more than we love our kids.

I want you to know that no matter who you are or what you’ve done, God loves you unconditionally. If you’ve never experienced his love, you can come to know him through faith in Jesus. If you already know Jesus, let me encourage you to spend time with your Heavenly Father.

Jonathan Howes has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Finance from Jacksonville State University and a Master in Divinity Degree from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He is the lead pastor for Graystone Church.

Locations include the Ozora Campus: 1551 Ozora Road Loganville, GA 30052 and the Walton Campus: 723 N Broad St Monroe, GA 30655.

Phone: (770) 466-3159 Email: info@graystonechurch.com Website: GraystoneChurch.com Blog: http://toliveischrist.cc Twitter: @JohnnyHowes

As tall as a mountain

Bill York

Nonagenarian As a small child, I became fascinated with shadows. I could be cool during hot summer days by staying in the shadows of trees. I could figure how tall trees were by measuring the shadow then measuring the shadow of an object with known height, like a ruler, then doing the comparative math.

Shadows reveal the approximate time of day. A shadow can expose somebody coming close. I learned that different shapes and size of shadows were caused by the position of the sun, the moon and by different kinds of lighting.

Spooky shadows were created at night by kerosene lamps when the winds caused the flame to flicker on the wick.

In the dim recess of my collection of childhood memories, I remember a great horned owl swishing over my head allowing me a unique experience of being touched by its shadow. When I saw an airplane I tried to jump on its shadow.

As a kid, I stood near a railroad track and tried to count the shadows of cars as they rumbled by. I was mesmerized by the shadows of chickens and grazing cows. I chased the shadow of a kite as it did a dervish dance in the sky. I treasure the memory of a covey of quails crossing a country lane followed by the same number of shadows scurrying along.

My grandfather explained that shadows had personalities. They were dependable and would always be with me. When clouds hid the moon, I could make shadows with my flashlight.

When my grandfather walked with me in the fields, our shadows would be obliterated by the movement of windswept weeds, but they returned when the wind stopped. At noontime our shadows were short, and as evening came, they were longer and skinny. When we crawled on our hands and knees, our shadows crawled with us As the sun settled in the evening, we would stand beside the barn and compare our shadows. I noticed how much taller he was than me. We put out our hand and wiggled the shadows of our

fingers. When we hopped up and down our shadows were in harmony. Often, he would set me on his shoulders. We were a towering shadow on the barn. I felt on top of the world.

My shadow was nearly as tall as my grandfather was when the war came. He said for me to take care of my shadow.

Our shadows hugged tightly as I entered the Greyhound bus.

Four years later I returned from Europe. My grandfather was frail. I watched his shadow struggle to get up.

It failed.

That week my shadow merged with the shadow of his headstone.

Last night I went for a walk with my grandson. We saw our shadows as we went under street lights.

I put the small boy on my shoulders, and our shadows were as tall as a mountain, just like my grandfather and me so many years ago.

As the sun appeared today, I saw my shadow bent over, the same as my grandfather was when I returned home from the war.

I thought about being old. I suddenly realized that my age was the same as my grandfather’s age when he died.

I hope my grandchild will tell his grandchild about shadows when it’s his time. Sioux2222@gmail.com

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Page 35

Your Assets - Your Plan or Someone Else’s?

“Without a will or a trust to direct your assets when you die, the law of Georgia will determine how the probate court will divide and distribute the things you own.”

James Miskell

Estate Planning

If the distribution of your property is important to you, you can use a will or a trust to give instructions about who gets what when you die. If you die without a properly executed estate plan, state law will determine how the probate court will divide and distribute the things you own. Of course, the state of Georgia’s estate plan won’t take your particular wishes into account. So, most people prefer to put their own plan into place.

Many people are surprised to learn that even a will or a trust may not control the distribution of savings held in IRAs. Fortunately, IRAs can easily transfer to your loved ones outside of probate simply by completing a beneficiary designation form. The IRA will be distributed the person or persons you designate. The forms must be kept current, because the IRA will go to the person

whose name you put on the form even if you have since divorced that person or written them out of your will.

What if a beneficiary designation form has not been completed? How do the heirs or the executor figure this one out? The good news is that many accounts have a built-in default to the surviving spouse or children of the owner.

So, just like the state, if you don’t have a plan in writing, the IRA has a plan for you. Problem: What if that runs contrary to your estate plan? Alternatively, what if the account has no default? In all likelihood the account will then default to your probate estate and will be treated as any other bank account going through probate.

Aside from probate itself, there are lots of rules regarding how IRAs can be inherited and used by the inheritor.

They must take distributions just like you do, but when the IRA defaults to your probate estate it gets complicated – and fast. This may mean that a big tax bill comes due immediately and

your savings no longer enjoy any of the protections from creditors that the IRA provided to you during your life.

The IRA can be assigned or transferred into a properly titled new account, but then again some IRA custodians simply refuse to do this, making the irreversible and catastrophically taxable choice to distribute the entire account to the estate. Simply put, an IRA not acting like an IRA within the estate plan is messy. It can be easily avoided by filling out the beneficiary form and keeping it up to date.

The best way to avoid the risk of unhappy and unexpected results is to put your wishes in writing by keeping IRA beneficiary forms and wills and trusts complete and up to date. If you don’t put your plan in writing, the assets you have worked hard to earn will not be distributed according to your wishes, but by rules of the IRA and laws of Georgia. By consulting with loved ones and qualified legal and financial professionals, you can develop a plan for the future and ex-

ecute the best documents to make your plan a reality. The time to start is now.

James M. Miskell received his law degree from the University of Georgia in 1993. His Asset Protection, Estate Planning and Elder Law practice has offices located in Lawrenceville and Johns Creek. He offers educational workshops

and free consultations to assist clients as well as fellow professionals in creating individualized solutions. Visit his website: www.LetsTalkEstatePlanning.com. For more information, see his ad in this issue

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 36

March 2017

ANNE continued from page 1 Eligibility is based on volunteer hours that are measured over a 12-month period, designated based on cumulative hours, and are offered in multiple levels - bronze, silver, gold, and the highest honor, the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award.

Known to many at Eastside Medical Center as “Momma Britt,” she volunteers countless hours at Eastside Medical Center. She began at the hospital’s original location on Highway 78, now referred to as the South Campus. At night, Britt enjoys unwinding after a busy day by crocheting blue and pink caps for the newborn babies at the hospital. On Saturdays and Sundays, she delivers food to the medical staff in the busy emergency department. “When the doctors pass me in the hallways at the hospital, they say, ‘Slow down now, Momma Britt.’”

Britt is also involved with the Kroger senior’s bingo program at the Snellville location. Every Wednesday morning you can find her making coffee and ensuring the chairs and tables are set up in the business meeting room. Britt counts her blessings daily. “The Lord blessed me with the gift and energy to volunteer. It’s the greatest gift. It’s so rewarding.”

Britt reflected on growing up in Snellville. “Growing up, my dad always called me, ‘Jingle.’ I was baptized in Possum Lake, today called Lake Lucerne, at the age of thirteen

by Pastor Avery Graves from Bethany Baptist Church. I was a former cheerleader and graduate of Snellville High School in 1955. That’s where I met my husband, Edwin. I was even a beautician for seventeen years.” She is currently an active member at Yellow River Baptist Church in Lilburn.

Momma Anne Britt with her Kroger senior’s bingo program in Snellville

This earthly angel cares for many citizens in her area. “I deliver copies of the Gwinnett Citizen and food to many residents who aren’t able to get out. If they have a cat or a dog, I bring a stuffed play toy for their pet.” Over the Christmas holiday, Britt collects, assembles, and delivers goodie bags to over 300 underprivileged children and seniors. “I save my allowance so I can give back to others. It’s my life’s mission to help other people,” added Britt.

Britt is extremely proud of her three children, Terry, Denise, and Denean, four grandchildren, and ten great grand-children. Her son, Terry is very complimentary about his mother’s volunteer work in the Snellville community. “She makes me tired.” He chuckled. “Especially after she calls to tell me all that she has accomplished in a day. I wish I had half her energy. She’s hard to keep up with. I know her volunteer work keeps her young. I’m very proud of

Photo By Emmett Clower

her.”

At the end of every day, Britt is thankful and prays. “When I lie down and say my prayers at night, I know I’ve done something positive for someone else. It brings me joy to see the joy in their faces.”

For more information about volunteer opportunities at Eastside Medical Center, visit http://eastsidemedical.com/careers/volunteer-opportunities, or call (770) 736-2463.

The Gwinnett Citizen

March 2017

Responsibilities of 2017

Soraya Bagheri

Grayson High School Last time you read my column was 2016, so there’s a lot for me to catch you up on. I have been busy with so much!

From pageants to piano recitals, registering for classes for next fall, golf tryouts, and finally… MY DOG. As a part of one of my Christmas presents, I got a dog for Christmas.

However, I did not actually receive my dog on Christmas morning. My dog, Chubbs, was born the Friday before Christmas Eve, and when I picked him out he was only 3 days old! At 3 days old, Chubbs was literally smaller than the palm of my hand. His eyes were still shut and only slept and ate.

You’re probably wondering, What kind of dog? Well, as a huge Georgia fan, I, of course, got an English bulldog. So, needless to say, I named Chubbs after UGA running back, Nick Chubb.

Well, this all ties back to why I have been so busy. After getting Chubbs’ bed, water and food bowl, toys, etc. for him, we finally picked him up at 7 weeks old in

February. He was still petite for his breed at that age, but he has grown so much!

Along with taking him home, I have learned so much about taking care of a dog. And it is definitely not as easy as it seems. The first day we brought Chubbs home, I felt like a full time mom, but I quickly learned it only got worse. He slept almost all day on the day he came home. I felt like I had everything under control. He had eaten, and I had given him water (like any other dog), I took him outside, and at night I put him in my room to sleep. Well, if you didn’t know, puppies don’t sleep throughout the night completely. Chubbs decided around 3 A.M. that he wanted to get up, bark, play, and needed to go to the bathroom.

It’s a good thing he’s cute because otherwise, I don’t think I could find many reasons to wake up in the middle of the night to take him out. A lot goes into taking care of a dog, but it has taught me a lot about responsibility and how to prioritize. I have learned to make sure that I am taking care of my dog as well as getting my homework done, golf practice, piano lesson, and leading a small group at church. You might think that that is a lot to take on. However, that is where prioritizing comes in. I have to make sure I am getting things done and on time, so that I can also have time to be with friends, enjoy my freshmen year and especially watch my sweet boy Chubbs grow up.

Any questions, comments or recommendations email What Goes Around at whatgoesaroundcitizen@gmail.com.

Soraya Bagheri is a freshman at Grayson High School.

Page 37

Exercise and School Success “Physical activity is not only critical to the physical well-being of children, but also to their academic performance and school success...”

Carol Wood

Total Learning Concepts

Is there a correlation between physical exertion and academic success? Many educators speculate that by limiting the amount of exercise breaks for students during the school day, we hamper their potential in the classroom.

It is difficult for schools to allot time during the school day for exercise activities along with core academic areas; such as reading, writing, math, science, social studies, foreign language and technology. So, as parents, it is important that we encourage, and perhaps even require, our children to participate in some form of physical exercise after school hours.

As our society has evolved into one of technology, modern medicine, and the use of advanced tools and equipment, we are more sedentary in our lifestyle than our ancestors were. This has resulted in not only weight problems for many, but research finds there is a strong correlation between physical activity and brain function. This finding helps us solve another challenge in our schools and homes; that of poor student academic performance.

In the 2008 book written by John Medina, Brain Rules, he describes 12 rules of how the brain works. The first rule he discusses is, “Exercise boosts brain power.” Medina supports this rule

with real-life cases and science, revealing many research studies that prove that regular exercise, even if only two times each week, is beneficial and offers significant advantages. Physical activity is proven to boost a person’s memory and increase his or her problem solving abilities, critical reasoning, and attention span. All of these are necessary for success in the classroom!

A researcher, Antronette Yancey, studied the effect that physical activity has on children and found that physically fit and/or active children are better able to identify visual stimuli faster, concentrate better, and pay attention to a task for longer periods of time than students who are physically inactive. And, when exposed to physical education classes, students perform better on core tests!

Yancey’s findings also concluded that, aside from academic benefits, physically fit and/or active children have fewer incidences of depression, anxiety, and negative behaviors.

Yet another study was conducted and subsequently concluded in May 2011

by Kathryn L. King, MD, and Carly J. Scahill, DO, from the Medical University of South Carolina Children’s Hospital.

This study involved 1st through 6th graders at an academically low elementary school in Charleston, S.C. and found that, after the students participated in 40 minutes of activity each day, five days a week (as opposed to their usual 40 minutes per week), the number of students who reached proficiency on the year-end state tests went from 55 percent to 68.5

percent! Wow! This is significant!

Also in John Medina’s book, Brain Rules, he cites a study that measured the brain power of “couch potatoes,” exercised them for a period of time, and then retested their brain power. These researchers found consistently that when inactive people began an aerobic exercise program, their mental abilities came back to life in as little as four months. A similar study examined the brain power of children as they began an exercise program of jogging for 30 minutes two or three times a week. After 12 weeks, their cognitive performance had improved significantly. However, perhaps just as important, when the exercise program was taken away, children’s scores plummeted back to pre-activity levels. This rise and fall of achievement in adults and children is the direct result of the brain receiving more or less oxygen.

These studies and more like them prove that physical activity is not only critical to the physical well-being of children, but also to their academic performance and school success. We can now feel optimistic about the long term benefits that exercise has on our children’s overall well-being Carol Wood is the Founder & CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc. Visit www. totallearningconcepts.com for information about their tutorial and test preparation services. For more information about Total Learning Concepts, Inc., please call 770-381-5958 or visit their website at http://totallearningconcepts.com

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 38

March 2017

HUDGENS continued from page 1

Special Photo

Young potters learning to throw from Studio Manager Vernon Smith

Special Photo

Special Photo

One-on-one instruction in a youth painting class

Special Photo

Special Photo

Excited campers watch as an instructor demonstrates a painting project during Summer Art Camp

20,000 sq. ft. of galleries, classrooms and space for meetings and receptions

have been added.

In other words, since 1981 Gwinnett County has proven again and again its devotion to the arts. Today, the impressive Hudgens Center for the Arts is a testimony to that love and commitment and yet, the Center remains one of the region’s best kept secrets. Why? Perhaps it’s because people aren’t aware of all the things the Center offers. Perhaps it’s because there is some confusion as to what the Hudgens Center for the Arts is all about. Perhaps, as one “mall teen” answered when asked what he knew about it, “I don’t know about all those famous dead guys, so I’ll probably never go.”

What a shame that would be.

No matter; Atlanta Parent magazine recently named the Center’s Toddler Friday* one of Atlanta’s best kept secrets – and Toddler Friday is just one of many such offerings that bring the whole

One-on-one instruction in a Healing Arts Session.

A Hudgens Center Youth Pottery Student busy creating on the wheel

family into the beautiful world of art. *details below Family Day is another popular offering, in which the entire family takes part in hands-on activities and story time.

*Toddler Friday is for children ages 1 – 4 and offers music, sensory experiences, hands-on projects and more.

A parent or caregiver is admitted free

The Hudgens Center Announces Free Admission through Partnership with Holtkamp Heating & Air The Hudgens Center for the Arts is pleased to announce free admission to our galleries for all in 2017, courtesy of a generous partnership with Holtkamp Heating & Air. According to Executive Director Ife Williams, “This partnership allows us to be more inclusive. Offering free admission to our galleries is a step toward eliminating barriers, broadening our audience and strengthening community connections. We are excited to be able to open our gallery programming to everyone and grateful to the Holtkamps for making this possible.”

The Hudgens Center for the Arts is committed to presenting a strong mix of gallery programming, highlighting both internationally and locally renowned artists across a variety of mediums.

Hudgens Center visitors can begin enjoying free access to the galleries immediately by attending the current exhibit, A Creative Adventure in Printmaking: Prints from the Experimental Printmaking Institute.

Holtkamp Heating & Air has provided residents of Gwinnett County and surrounding areas with highquality customer service for 20 years.

Owners, Matthew and Suzanne have a strong commitment to the local arts community.

“Our family has been heavily in-

Suzanne and Matthew Holtkamp at the Hudgens Center. volved in the arts in Gwinnett County for many years, and a relationship with the Hudgens Center is a natural fit for us,” said Suzanne. “The organization is one of the crown jewels of the local arts scene and we’re thrilled to help everyone in our community gain free access to this worldclass facility.”

The Hudgens Center is a non-profit organization that has been focused on

Special Photo

the arts since its establishment in 1981.

The Hudgens’ mission is to bring art lovers, leaders and learners together through quality programs and exhibits.

That mission is accomplished through visual arts initiatives, such as year round fine art exhibits and classes for all ages, and community arts initiatives, which reach out to undeserved populations.

Special Photo

A session of the Healing Arts Program (Healing Arts is a free monthly program that provides therapeutic art activities for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. This program also provides Creating Hope Art Kits for adult patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments at Gwinnett Medical Center.) (non-members $7.00), and there is an additional $2.00 per child fee for siblings.

Yes, in addition to impressive exhibits by world-renown artists to rising local artists, the Hudgens Center for the Arts offers classes and workshops for many types of art for children and adults alike: painting (oil and watercolor), sculpting, drawing, ceramics, calligraphy, even soap- and lotion-making. Art summer camp is wildly popular with both students and parents.

“Our ceramics classes and workshops are fantastic,” said Ife Williams, Executive Director of Hudgens Center for the Arts since Jan. 2016. “People travel from out-of-state to participate, even if they can only attend a weekend workshop.” Williams is proud of all of the Center’s offerings, including its exhibits. “At least once a year, we feature a world-renown artist’s exhibit, such as Rembrandt. We also feature exhibits by other famous artists, as well as local artists on the rise.” These exhibits change throughout the year and are scheduled, so that patrons can plan ahead to see some of their favorite works. The public is invited to an Exhibition Walk-Through with Curator Curlee Holton, from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. on Sat., March 18.

Another well-kept secret is The Hudgens Prize, a visual arts competition intended to elevate the arts in Georgia and to offer what could very well be a transformational, life-changing opportunity to a talented Georgia artist. A $50,000 cash award and an invitation for a solo exhibition will be given to one selected Georgia artist. The Hudgens Prize has been awarded 3 times in the past; a fourth recipient will be selected on September 30. Four finalists have already been selected by the jury panel to display their work in the Finalists’ Exhibition. Each of these artists will receive a $1500 cash sti-

pend; the 2017 Hudgens Prize winner will be selected on September 30, 2017 at the Hudgens Prize Award Ceremony. The four finalists currently under consideration are Sarah Hobbs, Jiha Moon, Lauri Stallings and Cosmo Whyte. Learn more about these artists and view some of their work at www.thehudgens.org. Artists may apply online for consideration for the next award of The Hudgens Prize.

Williams is also excited to share that, thanks to sponsorship by Gwinnett’s Holtkamp Heating and Air, admission to the center is FREE in 2017. Classes, workshops and special events are still fee-based offerings, but FREE admission is a great excuse to go check out this vibrant, thriving destination for the arts in Gwinnett County. It won’t be long until this “best-kept” secret is out.

Clearly, the Hudgens Center for the Arts is not your mama’s boring, stuffy, suit-and-tie “art house.” A community’s dedication to the arts adds an entirely new dimension to that community, and it gives budding young artists inspiration and motivation to pursue their dreams.

There’s something for art lovers of all ages at the Hudgens Center - bumper-tobumper drive into Atlanta not required.

For more information about the Jacqueline Hudgens Center for the Arts, or to learn about current and upcoming exhibits, artists and class schedules, visit www.thehudgens.org. A newly-designed website will launch in March (at the same address). Phone 770-623-6002 The Hudgens Center for the Arts is located at 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Bldg. 300, Duluth, GA 30097. Hours of Operation: Tues. – Sat., 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is FREE in 2017, thanks to a generous sponsorship by Holtkamp Heating and Air.

March 2017

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 39

The Gwinnett Citizen

Page 40

March 2017

Tom M. Wages Funeral Service, LLC “A FAMILY COMPANY”

Our Family of Companies Serving Our Community

SNELLVILLE

LAWRENCEVILLE

COVINGTON

CONYERS

WHEELERFUNERALHOME.COM

PEACHTREECREMATION.COM

NEWTON COUNTY

LAWRENCEVILLE

COVINGTONCREMATORY.COM

PTREEPC.COM

www.wagesfuneralhome.com Snellville Chapel 3705 Highway 78 W, Snellville 30039 (770) 979-3200

Lawrenceville Chapel 120 Scenic Hwy, Lawrenceville 30046 (770) 963-2411

Peachtree Pet Crematory (770) 817-1030