OurTown Magazine Gwinnett September 2011

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town September 2011

Lilburn l Lawrenceville l Snellville l Grayson

e m i t r e Summ inment a t r e t n E

See cover story on page 5

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

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Laura starts her journey...

Please join us for this

with over $3,000 LoinsGivet

15 lbs

of FAT her first month!

Before

After Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by 678.990.9400 We’re looking forward to meeting

The Center for Natural Healing and Weight Loss 1790 Presidential Circle, Suite A Snellville, GA 30078 www.drgravante.com

678.990.9400 www.drgravante.com

My nameCocktails, is Laura, and at 25 years I realized that I HAD to make aways, and HorsoldD’oeuvres.

a change. When you think of a 25 year old person, whether male or female, you instantly think of someone who is young and healthy and full of energy. That person was NOT me. I had hit my highest weight of 230 pounds…and I’m only 5’7”. I was absolutely miserable. I have always struggled with my weight, but this was completely out of control.

A few years back I was seeing Dr. Gravante for chiropractic issues. She suggested I try her nutritional program, because my weight was somewhat of an issue back then too. I went to the open house, I looked at her story of her own weight loss journey, and I thought “hey…this might actually work.” So I tried it out. The first month went great! I lost almost 10 pounds just from eating right and following her program. I was feeling great and starting to look better! But then I fell off the wagon.

It all started with ONE soda and some junk food. That was all it took for me to spiral back out of control.

On June 21, 2011 I went to see the doc, and THAT was the one single day that has changed my life. After analyzing some of my results, it became shockingly clear that I was destroying my body and my health…all because I couldn’t control my eating habits. So back on my nutritional journey I went. Armed with the tools Dr. Gravante had shown me, a positive attitude, and a flood of support from my family, and the cold hard facts on paper of what my body was going through…I was ready to do battle.

Now, a full month later I am down to 216. The scale showed 14 lb loss-but actually I lost 15 lbs of Fat and gained 1 lb of muscle. I can’t express how happy I am that I chose to do this. I even noticed that I am getting more of my stamina back, and I am starting to keep up with the rest of the class during Jiu Jitsu.

I am going to keep everyone updated on my progress over the next year or so. I want everyone to know that you don’t have to keep feeling the way I did. All it takes to do this program is a positive can-do attitude, and with the help of Dr. Gravante. Once you start the program, see the weight coming off and you see your body changing...you will realize just how “worth it” this program really is!

To read Laura’s full story you can follow her journey at www.drgravante.com and you find Laura by clicking on “Office News”.

Call Today for Your Appointment!

Lorraine Gravante, D.C.

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These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by Dr. Gravante is not PAGE For Advertising information 770.222.2699 • ourtownmagazine@bellsouth.net

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PAGE Page 3

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town

Lilburn

l

Lawenceville

Publisher/Editor D. Flores Norma Flores

Graphics

and

Our Town Jules Williams

Design

l

Snellville

l

Grayson

Contributing Writers: Glenton Ashby Chef Jennifer Hill Booker Susan Cadley, LPC Sagdrina Jalal, BS Ed, CPT Sheila Ortiz Cami Nail Carol Chandler-Wood

SEPTEMBER 2011 IN THIS ISSUE… About the Cover........................................................................5 Calendar of Events.................................................................7, 15 Business Bio: Scott’s Pressure Washing.....................................8 Fitness: The Truth About Muscle..............................................8 Finance: I’m Getting Married....................................................9 Education Corner: Back to School.......................................11, 18 Wellness: The Interview.............................................................12 September Crossword...............................................................12 Education Extra:Will My Child Be Ready for Elementary?....13

O ur T own M agazine , I nc .

P.O. Box 644 l Snellville, Georgia 30078 Telephone: 404-824-5396 www.OurTownMag.org For reader comments or questions, please E-mail us at life@ourtownmag.org

Crossword Key...........................................................................14 Counselor’s Corner: You Can Start Again................................16 Pet Page: Building Your Dog’s Real Life Skills.........................17 Recipes: ......................................................................................18

Our Town is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in the Gwinnett Area.

Opinions expressed by the editorial staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town reserves the right to edit and or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.

Entire contents copyright 2011 by Our Town. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

Page 4

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Our Town Magazine

ABOUT THE COVER

By Shayla Ortiz

T

Summertime Entertainment

he summer is in full swing and the kids are back in school. Are you ready for some adult time or just want to break away from the monotony of everyday life? Here are some ideas to liven up your ho-hum evenings and invigorate your weekends.

Posh S’mores

Who says you have to wait until winter to roast some S’mores? Make it a grownup campfire, take advantage of a slow summer night, enjoy the warm breeze and light up a backyard fire pit.

Bask in the glowing embers while roasting marshmallows and listening to soft soothing tunes. Surround the pit with over sized outdoor cushions and toss a couple of throw pillows to accomplish a laid back atmosphere. Keep the night green by jump starting the fire with dried pruning, leaves and evergreen cones. Set up a small build your own s’more table that will allure your entire guests. Line the table with small galvanized buckets filled with assorted marshmallow flavors (strawberry, lime, chocolate). Offer different types of graham crackers (cinnamon, honey,

Our Town Magazine

chocolate) and sides to sprinkle, like toasted coconut or nuts. Be creative and make sure to label all the trimmings. You might be thinking s’mores are for kids, well... posh your treat by serving a nice fruity Viognier wine; chill it and couple it with a warm gooey gourmet s’more.

Entertain your guests by indulging in a childhood delicacy with an adult twist.

Dinner with a theme

Choose a country and ask your guests to bring a dish that corresponds with the country of choice. For example, if you choose Spain request your guests to bring tapas (tapas are a small appetizer or snack) these are great starters that can easily be paired with a Spanish red wine. Be a “hostess with the mostess” and have a fling with your event, impress family and friends with zesty paella. Create the setting in the dining room by placing fresh cut red roses on small vases throughout the room, shadowed by lit ivory candles. Accompany the main with nectarous sangria; infuse it with chopped fruit to enhance the flavor and attractiveness. Don’t forget to play a Spanish opera or flamenco as your background music and seal the deal.

Garden Party

Does your garden need a little sprucing up?

Have a party and share the fun.

Ask each guest to bring a starter plant or flower and have them plant it; provide soil and all the tools needed to achieve your garden bash. Prepare a large glass pitcher of cold lemonade and immerse thinly sliced lemons with a sprinkle of mint leaves to keep your guests hydrated. Set up a small canopy where snacks and finger foods can be displayed to keep the mood light and fun. Hand out personalized paper hand fans or dollar store gardening tools as party favors. Always remember to complete the ambience of the party with music, have fun with it.

Think outside of the box this summer and dare to explore for your next soiree; aim to entertain and celebrate life.

Writer, Shayla Ortiz

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Our Town Magazine

SEPTEMBER Calendar Moonlight & Music Concert Series August 26th Gwinnett Historic Courthouse 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 www.visitlawrenceville.com/ August 26 - North Georgia Bluegrass Band Friday, September 23 - Abbey Road LIVE! (Beatles Tribute) Bluegrass Concert August 27, 2011 City of Grayson 475 Grayson Parkway, Grayson, GA 30017 www.cityofgrayson.org/ Come and enjoy bluegrass music from 6pm-9pm for FREE! 15th Annual Vineyard Fest August 28, 2011 Chateau Elan Golf Club & Resort 6060 Golf Club Drive, Braselton, GA 30517 www.chateauelan.com/ Enjoy a grand tasting of over 120 wines, wine and food seminars, grape stomping, live music and much more!

Gwinnett Christian Academy Open house August 28, 2011 Chateau Elan Golf Club & Resort 6060 Golf Club Drive,

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Braselton, GA 30517 www.chateauelan.com/ Enjoy a grand tasting of over 120 wines, wine and food seminars, grape stomping, live music and much more!

U.S. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 www.stonemountainpark.com/ Enjoy live entertainment, fireworks and much more.

Fashion Night Out at Avenue Webb Gin September 8, 2011 6pm-9pm Avenue Webb Gin 1350 Scenic Hwy Snellville webbgin.shoptheavenue.com Live music, instant fashion booth, gift bags, giveaways and more.

Pancake Breakfast September 3, 2011 Briscoe Field Airport/Gwinnett County 600 Briscoe Blvd., Lawrenceville, GA 30045 www.690.eaachapter.org/ Come enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast and learn about the Experimental Aircraft Association.

Kuchipudi: Telling a Story Through Indian Dance September 3, 2011 Aurora Theatre 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 www.auroratheatre.com/new/ Summer Concert Series September 3, 2011 Chateau Elan Golf Club & Resort 6060 Golf Club Drive, Braselton, GA 30517 www.chateauelan.com/ Live outdoor concert Labor Day Celebration September 03 – 05, 2011 Stone Mountain Park

First Friday Thru December 2, 2011 Throughout Lawreceville 455 S. Perry St., Lawrenceville, GA 30045 Lawrenceville Female Seminary/ Gwinnett History Museum www.visitlawrenceville.com/ Monthly shopping and dining celebration and feature specials and extended hours.

A Chorus Line Thru September 4, 2011 Aurora Theatre 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 www.auroratheatre.com/new/ Aspiring performers put everything on the line to fulfill their dream of winning a role in a Broadway musical

Cirque Du Soleil - Dralion Thru September 4, 2011 Arena at Gwinnett Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth, GA 30097 www.ticketmaster.com/ Style Worskshop September 17 11am - 1pm Ethen Allen @ Avenue Webb Gin 1350 Scenic Hwy Snellville info@lawrenceoille.ethanallen.com Enjoy the “What’s your style” workshop.

RSVP by Sept 14th.

Lawrenceville Farmers Market Thru September 24, 2011 Historic Courthouse Square, Lawrenceville 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, Georgia 30046 www.visitlawrenceville.com/ Come out and shop for fresh fruit, vegetables, and breads. Every Saturday.

Steel Magnolias September 09 – 25, 2011 New London Theatre 2485 East Main Street SW, Snellville, GA 30078 www.newlondontheatre.org/

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Continued on pg. 15

Page 7

Tired of gyms and their cookie cutter approach to weight loss and fitness?

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Inner Strength offers a variety of in-home services including: l personal training by experienced, certified trainiers l In depth nutritional guidance by our registered dietician l personal chef services that will suit your individual needs Let us design a program specifically with you in mind!

(404) 271-0071

www.innerstrength-fitness.com

FITNESS

NOW FEATURING!

The Truth about Muscle

By Sagdrina Jalal

T BUSINESS BIO

SCOTT’S PRESSURE WASH

G

ive your home a fresh clean look with Scott’s Pressure Wash. Scott Ellington a Georgia native has been servicing North East Georgia for over 15 years; pressure washing homes and businesses restoring their curb appeal.

Throughout the year your home endures harsh winters and blistering summers, leaving their residue behind. Over time mold, algae and mildew become a very unsightly and unhealthy problem. At Scott’s Pressure Wash they are experts at removing stubborn stains and rejuvenating your home for a fresher look that will add value to your property.

They provide an array of services like high and low pressure cleaning, deck restoration, gutter cleaning and more. Scott and his team pressure wash year round and offer competitive pricing. Their experience has led them to wash the biggest structure yet, a 5 story condo in Buckhead and many other buildings containing apartments and condominiums. They’ve been hired by restaurants requesting their assistance in grease pit clean-up and sidewalk gum removal.

Scott’s Pressure Wash has successfully not limited its services to homes and patios, they have also cleaned RVs, driveways, tool sheds, fences and concrete pool decks. “Experience counts when it comes to pressure washing”, says Ellington.

Pressure washing when done improperly can cause serious problems in the long run. Scott’s team is fully insured and they guarantee customer satisfaction.

Business is steadily growing for Scott Ellington and he acknowledge that most of his work comes from repeat customers, whom he truly appreciates; a true testament of his dedication to pleasing the customer. This summer treat your home to a much needed pressure wash and extend the life of your property.

To make an appointment for a free estimate call Scott’s Pressure Wash at 678-4691599 or view the website at Scottspressurewash.net.

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hink you know a thing or two about muscle?

Check out my True/False Muscle Quiz and test your knowledge :

For a Muscle to get stronger, it must get bigger.

False Building muscle mass is a very complicated process. The muscle itself has tons of small fibers that must break down and rebuild. The more you challenge a muscle, the more fibers break down. The rebuilding process is where the strength comes. It is not until many, many fibers have been broken down does any true bulk take place. The muscle is stronger long before you can ‘see’ that it is!

Doing too much cardio can prevent you from building muscle mass.

True Technically doing excessive amounts of cardio can actually create a situation where the body begins to break down lean muscle. However, the right balance of cardiovascular exercise and challenging weight bearing routines creates a perfect workout regime. Consider doing no more than 20 minutes of vigorous cardio on the days that you lift weights. Leave your longer aerobic workouts for your off days.

The best way to improve functional fitness (the ability to perform everyday task well) is free weights.

False Functional fitness has become very popular in recent years as we realize that one of the most important reasons to stay in shape is to continue to be able to do everyday tasks as we age. The best way to train ‘functionally’ is to do exercises that mimic these movements.

Eating a lot of protein is essential when building muscle mass.

False This is a very common misconception. Typically speaking, eating the typical recommended amount of protein for your weight will support your workouts.

Many people enjoy drinking protein shakes as a meal replacement or snack but they are not an essential supplement for the average person trying to develop or maintain lean muscle.

It is important to increase the amount of weight you lift regularly.

False Increasing weight before your body is ready can lead to poor form (not doing the exercises correctly) or worse yet, injury. Increase your weight at as reasonable pace. When you find your workout becomes too easy, try to increase the weight about 10%.

Remember speak with your physician before beginning a workout routine

By Sagdrina Jalal, BS Ed, CPT, Fitness Consultant,

For Advertising Information Call 404-824-5396 • E-mail: life@OurTownMag.org

Inner Strength Fitness, 404-271-0071 www.innerstrength-fitness.com

Our Town Magazine

FINANCE Halcyon Times– Helping you enjoy smooth financial sailing.

I’m Getting Married In The Morning …

By Glenton Ashby

T

here are many things engaged couples, and couples nearing engagement, do together and talk about together.

Included in those things should be some discussion of money and finances.

I’m not talking only about how things might work after saying “I do!” but also about how things are right now, before the wedding or even before the engagement.

Money is at the top of the list of things that cause difficulties in a marriage, so avoiding or eliminating surprises should be a priority. If married life gets off to a bad financial start, the problems could be long-lasting.

After the wedding you will have to do things that make financial sense for your situation. Your situation will be unique, just like your marriage.

If at all possible, a couple should be on the same page financially before getting married. Honesty with yourself and with your future spouse is required.

First, you have to know where you are individually, financially speaking.

Second, you need to know where your future spouse is financially.

Third, the two of you should begin to talk about where you want to go together financially.

Do you know how your partner handles money right now?

Some things engaged couples should do and discuss: Are there any philosophical or religious beliefs or issues that should be part of your financial planning together? Is there a philosophy about money and financial matters?

Have an open and honest discussion about any debt that exists on either side – credit cards, car loans, student loans, etc. If there is a lot of debt there must be understanding about how it will be paid off and when.

If there is a credit card debt problem, that problem needs to be addressed. Then some plans or decisions need to be made about how to avoid the problem in the future.

Plans should be made to have wills drawn up and executed soon after marriage, even if the wills are very simple. Discuss beneficiaries and executors.

If the marriage will result in a blended family with minor children, decisions should be made regarding guardianship and care of those children in case of the death of the parent. This should be documented in the wills.

Plan to have financial and health care powers-of-attorney drawn up also.

If either, or both, people were previously married there should be discussion regarding any alimony and/or child support obligations.

Christmas is Here

Pre-Lighted Trees Wreaths & Garlands Dept. 56 Villages Byer’s Choice Carolers Possible Dreams Santas Annalee Elves & Dolls Fontanini Nativities

Some other considerations: Will you live by a budget? How will the budget be created and managed?

What will be your saving and investing goals and objectives? What will be your retirement goals?

What will be your giving goals and objectives?

Who will manage the checkbook? Will there be a shared bank account?

Will both spouses work if there are children?

All of these issues, and others, do not have to be covered at once. When the talks do occur, be open and honest. Listen to where the other person is coming from.

Realize that there may need to be some compromise to get to the place where you will both be comfortable.

I trust your marriage will get off to a great start!

Feedback and topic suggestions are welcome – email HalcyonTimes@HalcyonFP. com, or comment at www.HalcyonFP.com/halcyon-times. Tweet @halcyonplanning.

Glenton Ashby is the founder and owner of Halcyon Financial Planning, LLC, a fee-only financial planning and Registered Investment Advisor firm. Visit HalcyonFP.com.

Our Town Magazine

Grand Opening Sale Sept 17-18

M.C. Twinklin’s

Christmas

“Atlanta’s Unique Christmas Store” 2178 McDaniels Bridge Ct. l Lilburn, GA 30047 770-972-7237 l www.mctwinklins.com

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Our Town Magazine

EDUCATION Corner It’s Back to School Time!

By Carol Wood, Total Learning Concepts

S

chool is just beginning and it is important to make sure your children start off in the best possible way. Regardless of your children’s grade level in school, following are several suggestions which you should find helpful to enable them to work more productively and successfully, thus increasing their chance of a successful school year: MAKE EDUCATION A PRIORITY IN YOUR HOME. Let your children know that in your home academics take priority over any other school related activities. Your children’s values take shape early on as to what is important. They have a keen eye for what you do and a sharp ear for what you say. With time, your children will absorb your views about school and your standards regarding education. Let them know it is a privilege earned to be allowed to participate in a club or be on an athletic team. It is important for a child’s success academically that his/her parents insist that academics come before any other extracurricular activities. It is a student’s job to be in school. I tell students often, “Your parents go to work each day. Your job each day is to be a student”.

If a student has below level abilities and/or poor study attitudes and habits, those problems must be addressed in order for him/her to be a successful student. Students attending extra help sessions at school with teachers or tutorial sessions after school with a professional must place these activities before club meetings or athletic practices. If you are a parent who takes your children to ball practice even though they are making poor grades and/or demonstrating lousy study skills and attitudes, you have sent the wrong message to them; one that academics is second to other priorities. I have known several parents who have walked onto the playing field and removed their child from practice when he or she did not make school work a priority. In each case, the student received a definitive message that mom and dad meant business, and, subsequently, the student worked harder towards academics, thus grades improved.

BECOME PART OF THE TEAM WITH YOUR CHILD’S TEACHERS AND SCHOOL. Studies have shown that parental involvement is the single most important factor in a child’s academic success. Children do better in school when their parents are involved in their education. Students whose parents are involved have better grades, improved test scores and increased motivation. So, if possible, both parents should attend PTSA meetings, teacher conferences, after school events, etc. and both should oversee their educational process.

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See our website for details.

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Let you children know that you and their teachers and school are on the same page, working towards the same goals. You must present a united front to your children with those involved in their education. If and when you disagree with a teacher, never let your children know this. Take your issue privately to the teacher and discuss your concerns candidly. You will most likely be enlightened by your meeting with the teacher and learn things about your children’s academics that you did not know. If children know their parents disagree with their teachers about a topic, they will often use that as their excuse for not being successful.

TEACH ACADAEMIC RESPONSIBILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY. When your children are successful in school, be sure to congratulate them and tell them how proud you are of their effort, attitude, and accomplishment. When they are not successful because they have not applied themselves and demonstrated poor study strategies and attitudes, hold them accountable by having consequences in place.

You must be sure to then hold firm to the consequences you have set. Children will often argue and yell to try to get their way. You must stay calm and firm with them while reminding yourself you are in charge. It is your job as a parent to teach your children responsibility and accountability for their choices regarding their school work. Otherwise, they will not perform to their abilities and they will most likely carry irresponsibility into other areas of their lives.

CATCH YOUR CHILDREN DOING THINGS WELL. It is so easy to correct our children and point out all the things we want them to do better. After all, isn’t that our job to correct and teach them? Maybe so, but you will find that by “catching” them doing something good or correct this will have far reaching positive effects! The first time you catch them doing something good and state, “John, I am so impressed with the way you put together your science project” or “Wow, Susan you really attacked the material for that test”, they will give you a look that says, “What is up with you?”. Don’t react, just move on to another topic. It is amazing to see the impact your positive comments will have on your children. These positive remarks will fuel more positive behaviors from your children.

KEEP IN CONTACT WITH TEACHERS. At the beginning of school, e-mail each of your children’s teachers giving them your e-mail address and phone numbers.

Ask them to contact you if any situation should arise during the year that they feel warrants your attention. Let the teachers know that they have your support. Children generally do better in school when their parents Article Continued on Page 18

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Page 11

M

The Interview

y husband, Maurice, and I are opposites. I love fitness, but Maurice… not so much. I love fruits, veggies, and water. Maurice loves meat, chocolate, and an Arnold Palmer. I need 7 hours of sleep. Maurice is often snoring on the couch in front of the tv with the remote resting in his hand. I believe in preventive care therapies. Maurice has several bottles of prescriptions in the medicine cabinet. Due to his lifestyle and high-pressure job with travel, Maurice is overweight, stressed and on meds.

We tried working out together – not successful. He tried not eating meat – not successful. He had a gym membership – not successful. I suggested he stop playing video games and watching television until early a.m. – not successful.

So, I eventually accepted who my husband is and stopped making suggestions.

When it came to health and wellness – I went on my journey and he went on his.

No arguments + no drama = happy couple.

But recently, I’d noticed changes in Maurice. He looked trimmer and more muscular. He seemed more relaxed. In fact, I hadn’t seen him pick up a video game controller in the last month. So one morning, I said…

“Hey, Maurice, you’re looking good. What’ve you been doing differently lately?”

“Well,” he started, “I’ve been eating something healthy every morning. Like a bag of cheerios, a granola bar, or a bowl of cereal.”

I’d noticed that.

“I’ve also started swimming laps, and when I travel, I choose hotels with indoor pools so I can swim before or after my meetings. Sometimes, I work out on the gym’s elliptical or do some pushups.”

“How long have you been doing that?”

I could see him calculating the weeks in his mind. “Hm… a couple of months now.”

He added, “It’s been hard, but I’ve also been forcing myself to turn off the television at night.”

“Yeah, I’ve noticed you in the bed instead of on the couch!”

“Since I’ve started sleeping at night, I’ve had more energy during the day and I’m not as stressed at work.”

Then he remembered something and said, “Oh yeah, I’ve also been watching my late-night sweets.”

We both chuckled thinking about his nightly bowl of ice cream and my bag of gummy bears (I’m not totally innocent). But he was right. I’d noticed he wasn’t falling asleep with an empty bowl resting at his feet.

“How long have you been doing all this?” I asked.

“Hm… Since February or March.”

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WELLNESS

?

Across

25. Loose dirt 26. Fishing, perhaps 27. Common request 28. Like a pitcher’s perfect game 29. Kind of mill 30. African language 33. “Mi chiamano Mimi,” e.g.

34. Cutting remark 35. Alkaline, for short 37. Handovers 38. Resentments 24. Sounds 40. Furnace output Down 25. Halftime 41. Close, as an envelope 1. Knight fight entertainment 42. Treasure chests 2. Its motto is “Industry” 31. Test, as ore 43. Heads 3. The “B” of N.B. 32. Be bombastic 44. Blair’s predecessor 4.

North and South 33. “The ___ Daba 45. “Remember the ___!”

5.

Chiang Kai-shek’s capital Honeymoon” 46. Thomas Jefferson, 6.

Coastal raptor 36. Guns religiously 7.

Place 37. Durable fabric 49. Asian nurse 38. ___-Altaic languages 8. Links rental 50. Vampire Diaries star 9. Musical repeat 39. Drink from a dish 51. Allergic reaction 10.

Set, decoratively 40. Bank job 52. Do, for example 11.

Agronomists’ study 41. Brat’s look 53. Arrange, as hair 12.

Actress Oberon 42. Artificial 54. “Laugh-In” segment 13.

Kills, as a dragon insemination 44. Bright colored plaid 21. Hurting 22. Christmas decoration 47. Propel, in a way 48. Alaskan lands 1. Band member 5. Telephone company, 55. Religious person of India for short 56. Drops 10. Doctrines 57. Icky stuff 14. Any thing 15. Met expectations? 58. Trans-Siberian 16. “O Sanctissima,” e.g. Railroad city 59. “Eraserhead” star Jack 17. Channel 18. Dead to the world 60. Small ornamental case 61. Decomposes 19. 100 kurus 20. Means of assistance 62. Persian potentates 63. Aug. follower 23. “Rocks”

?

“That’s more than half the year! What made you finally decide to change?”

“When my cholesterol numbers hit over 300 and Doc told me what could happen, I knew I had to do something. I don’t want to take Lipitor every day for the rest of my life.”

I knew the changes he’d made weren’t easy for him, and that he must be really concerned about his health and our family’s future in order to do what he was doing. I also knew I had to share his experiences with others going through the same thing.

“Can I share this?” I asked. “I think so many people will be able to relate to your challenges, your story and your successes.”

“Yeah, sure. Why not?” he said. Then he got up, put on his swim trunks and left for the pool.

Althea Lawton-Thompson, Certified Fitness Expert, is the owner of Aerobics, Yoga & More Fitness Studios in Lilburn, GA & the Fitness Coordinator of the Johns Hopkins Youth Obesity Program in Baltimore, MD. See classes & workshops she offers at www.AYMFitness.com.

Page 12

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EDUCATION EXTRA

Will My Child Be Ready for Elementary School?

By Cami Nail, Primrose School of Five Forks www.PrimroseFiveForks.com | cnail@primrosefiveforks.com

M

ore and more parents are recognizing the importance of enrolling their children in preschool to help them develop the right foundation for success in elementary school and beyond. However, the best programs go beyond helping children master basic academic skills to supporting their development as happy, confident, well-rounded individuals.

Research shows that from birth to age five, development in all areas is rapid. Children form strong neural connections during this time as a result of experiences they have with everyone and everything they encounter. The quality of those early interactions determines how children continue to learn and form relationships, strongly influencing their future success and happiness.

“Parents should look for preschool, pre-K and kindergarten programs that take a balanced approach to developing motor, social-emotional, creative and academic skills,” said Cami Nail, of Primrose School of Five Forks. “It takes quality instruction, a well-rounded curriculum and a positive teacher relationship to prepare a child to succeed.”

Our Town Magazine

Academics: Let’s go beyond concentrating only on basic math and reading skills. Academic success is not just about memorization – it requires learning how to think critically, use mathematical concepts, express curiosity and develop competence in language skills like listening, speaking and writing.

Technology: In today’s technology-rich world, children need to have a grasp of technology as a tool for creative expression and problem solving. Computers equipped with developmentally-appropriate educational software and online resources should be integrated into the classroom.

Physical Development: Children who participate in daily physical activity develop basic motor skills like throwing, jumping and balance that help them become healthy adults. Physical activity also creates neural connections that support academic achievement.

Music and Art: Young children naturally engage in “art,” or spontaneous, creative play, but when educators involve children in music and art activities regularly from an early age, they encourage cognitive and emotional development.

Social-Emotional Development: Preschool programs should focus on social and life skills to help your child establish positive relationships and transition easily to elementary school.

Will your child be ready to enter elementary school?

Selecting the right child care program is a big step in helping your child succeed. Plan to tour schools at least one year in advance so you have plenty of time to apply and enroll your child. To learn more about Primrose School of Five Forks, visit www.

PrimroseFiveForks.com, or call 770.985.0028.

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Page 13

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CALENDAR - Continued Continued from pg. 7

Lawrenceville Police Dept 5k Road Race and Fun Walk September 10, 2011 Lawrenceville Police Department www.lpd5k.com/ 5k road race and fun walk with proceeds to benefit Georgia Gwinnett College Criminal Justice scholarship and the Lawrenceville Police Benevolence Fund for injured officers.

43rd Annual Yellow Daisy Festival September 08 – 11, 2011 Stone Mountain Park U.S. Highway 78 East, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 hwww.stonemountainpark.com/ Voted the Nation’s #1 Arts & Crafts Show six years in a row by Sunshine Artist Magazine.

Patriot Day Concert September 11, 2011 Snellville First Baptist Church 2400 E. Main St., Snellville, GA 30078 www.facebook.com/ stonemountainchorus Come celebrate 9/11 with the Stone Mountain Barbershop Chorus!

Skid Row in Concert September 16 Wild Bill’s Duluth 2075 Market Street, Duluth, GA 30096 wildbillsatlanta.com Metal band Skid row closes out the summer rock series with Bigfoot and Dangerous New Machine Nutirtional Workshops by Lorraine Gravante, D.C. September 20th The Center for Natural Healing & Weight Loss 1790 Presidential Circle, Suite A Snellville, GA 30078 www.drgravante.com Ribbons and Bows Thursday 7pm Sept 29th M.C. Twinklin’s Christmas 2178 McDaniels Bridge Ct. Lilburn, Spend an informative hour learning to make a bow and other tricks with ribbon to spark your creativity, home decor, and holidays. $10 per person.

Reservations requested; call 770/9727237 for more information. Light refreshments served.

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Page 15

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You Can Start Again

By Susan Cadley

“When we feel stuck, going nowhere--even starting to slip backward--we may actually be backing up to get a running start.”

O

-Dan Millman

GO!

h, where to begin? That is the question when faced with starting something new. As I begin writing this article, a process is in place. There’s hesitation, thinking about a subject and then finally…placing my hands on the keyboard. It may sound easy, but it’s not always that way when starting something new. What usually gets in our way is fear.

The element of fear is meant to keep us safe from harm. Think about that intuitive feeling you have when you sense danger. It’s a natural built in instinct. However, what is unique to humans is that we place danger on situations that may not be harmful at all. We do this based on our personal history, looking for evidence that something did not work in the past. In order to avoid feeling failure, disappointment, or sadness, hesitation sets in. Fear can stop you in your tracks from moving ahead.

If you’ve been thinking about starting something such as a healthy lifestyle, work project, an event, anything that feels big and overwhelming to you, look for these signs that fear is in charge: Negative self defeating talk – “you can’t do that, it’s too hard, you’ve failed before” Procrastination – “you can begin later’ Comparing – “other people have it easier, they are more talented” Complacency - Doing nothing is a habit.

Here are some ways to get yourself at the starting line once you’ve decided to begin: Do your research and have a plan in place. Name the main goal and then create smaller attainable goals to keep overwhelm at bay.

Imagine how you would feel if you began something you’ve been putting off. This usually results in feeling a sense of calm, accomplishment, increased self-esteem.

Gain support and cheerleaders along the way.

Write down your goal and post it where you can see it everyday.

Celebrate yourself for starting with a healthy reward.

Beginnings can be filled with excitement and fear, as the unknown offers a plethora of possibilities and fear offers only one; perceived safety. Consider starting something you’ve been putting off and open yourself up to learning and growing. And remember, even if you slide backwards, you can begin again in the next moment. Life is a series of starts. Be gentle with yourself and decide to start living even more fully, right now.

Susan Cadley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, is available for couples counseling and adult individual counseling, workshops and book studies in Suwanee, GA. She may be reached directly and confidentially at 678-296-1278, www.coachingforyoursoul.com

Page 16

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PET PAGE BUILDING YOUR DOG’S REAL LIFE SKILLS

I

n my volunteer role with the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (www.apdt. com) I have had the privilege of working on many wonderful projects. One project I wanted to highlight for the readers is the CANINE LIFE AND SOCIAL SKILLS program, otherwise known as C.L.A.S.S. This national program for pet dogs and owners launched this year after eighteen months of research and development designed to create a certification program to enhance the real life skills of dogs and educate their human owners.

Why C.L.A.S.S.? My task force set out to first identify what owners thought were the most important real life skills their dogs needed to have. Dogs with real life skills such as Wait at the Door, Wait to be Fed, Down Settle, Stay and Loose Leash Walking are more prone to stay in the home. We see this very easily when we look at the shelter statistics for why dogs are relinquished to shelters. Close to 80% are relinquished to a shelter or rescue for behavioral or training issues. These training issues tend to be problems that are easily solvable through positive training. This type of training also builds a strong relationship between the dog and owner. Through the C.L.A.S.S. program, dogs are evaluated on these real life skills and have the ability to earn certifications at three different levels of advancement.

We also wanted to provide an educational component for the average pet dog owner. As a trainer, many of my students come to me on a regular basis with basic questions about why their dog exhibits certain behaviors or how they communicate with us. We consulted with trainers across the country to compile what we know to be is some of the best dog behavior and husbandry information out there. The C.L.A.S.S. students must review and learn this valuable information and then they are tested on their knowledge of it in the evaluation process. This knowledge of dog behavior and canine communication is not only helpful in their relationships with their own dogs but also with other dogs they may come into contact with in places such as a veterinarian office, dog park or even just walking down the street.

All in all, the C.L.A.S.S. program was designed to promote training and strengthen relationships between dogs and owners. To find a C.L.A.S.S. Evaluator near you or to locate an instructor who teaches classes for the program you may check out the official website at www.mydoghasclass.com and get started on improving your dog’s real life skills today!

PETS OF THE MONTH Teddy was rescued from the Atlanta Humane Society. I was originally his foster parents as well as his sister’s.

He was in a litter of five and he was the only male dog.

I was planning on adopting his sister but when i saw him I fell in love with him! I met teddy when he was just 8 weeks old! He is my baby, my everything! Teddy lives a very happy life and is very spoiled. He is shy at first but very loving. Teddy seems to be very scared of strangers but will lick you non stop once he gets to know you. In August, Teddy will be celebrating his 2nd birthday!

Teddy

Available for Adoption: MADDIE (DOB ~7/6/2004) is an beautiful front-paw declawed female Tortie Point Himalayan with beautiful blue eyes. MADDIE found herself in a local kill shelter, and when the President of the local Humane Society saw MADDIE, she said she knew she just had to call us to take MADDIE. MADDIE is a laid back girl who enjoys just lounging around, watching the birds outside, and generally just chilling out. She is currently sporting her summer ‘do (a Lion Cut) and will probably be back in full coat within a year. She is a sweet girl who will provide her new family with many years of love, affection, and companionship. Won’t you consider bringing MADDIE into your home? MADDIE is spayed, up-to-date with vaccines, negative for FIV/FeLV/FHW, microchipped, dewormed, has received flea and ear mite preventative, and is eligible to receive at least 30 days of prepaid pet health insurance.

MADDIE’s adoption fee is $150.00.

Maddie

To see all our cats available for adoption, please visit www.fancyfelinerescue.org/available.htm, then email us, FancyFelineResQ@bellsouth.net, or call, 678-522-2152, to schedule an appointment to meet your new family member!

Fancy Feline Rescue of the South is a non-profit, no-kill rescue organization dedicated to indi-

SEND IN YOUR PET FOR “PET OF THE MONTH!” Send to: PO BOX 644 Snellville, GA 30078 or life@ourtownmag.org

Nancy Churchill, DVM n Pam Zaidspiner, DVM n Bill Connolly, DVM Brad Harris, DVM n Kathryn Padgett, DVM n Pat Zook, DVM

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Page 17

EDUCATION ARTICLE Continued from Page 11

Recipe All Day Oatmeal Makes: 2 servings Prep Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes 1 cup old fashioned oatmeal 2 cups water ½ teaspoon salt 1 Tablespoon dehydrated bananas (unsweetened) 2 Tablespoons golden raisins 1½ teaspoons cinnamon 1 Tablespoon walnuts, unsalted 1 Tablespoon almonds, unsalted 4 teaspoons maple sugar 2 Tablespoons evaporated low-fat milk Stir oatmeal in a medium saucepan over medium heat until lightly toasted.

Add water and salt and bring to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce to a simmer and cook until oatmeal is thick but oats are still firm, about 10 minutes. Add the bananas, raisins, and cinnamon and simmer for three minutes more. Remove from heat and stir in the walnuts and almonds. Divide your All Day Oatmeal into two bowls and top with 2 teaspoons of maple sugar and 1 Tablespoon of evaporated milk.

Recipe provided by: Chef Jennifer Hill Booker Please free to contact Chef Jennifer at: www.yourResidentgourmet.com www.ChefJenniferBooker@gmail.com

Page 18

encourage respect for the teacher’s authority and competence and when children see their parents and teachers as a united team working towards the same goals. Do not drop in the school room to visit with a teacher without an appointment. This could be construed that you do not respect the teacher or his or her time. Additionally, by knowing in advance what your concerns are and by scheduling an appointment, the classroom teacher has time to research the answers to your questions and he or she will be prepared to suggest interventions strategies which can help the student.

ESTABLISH A STUDY AREA. Establish a study area for each of your children which are considered to be their very own. At this study area, have everything the student will need for academics; i.e., stapler, tape, paper, flashcards, pencils, pens, etc. I know it is redundant, but each child in the family would benefit by having their own set of supplies. This will help maintain harmony in your home, prove to be an efficient means of home study for everyone, and give all children “ownership” of their academics. Also, establish the best study time for each child, which will most likely be different for each.

LIMIT TELEVISION AND RECREATIONAL COMPUTER/TECHNOLOGY TIME. Instead of telling your children that when their homework is complete they can watch TV, use the computer or other technology, go outside to play, etc., give them a specific time limit each day in which they can do these things. Otherwise, they may rush through their homework and/or test preparation and do a poor job.

EMPHASIZE EFFORT RATHER THAN GRADES. Remember, it is not the actual letter grade that is most important, rather the level of effort and energy the student puts forth. However, if your children have an academic foundation which is weak or not on their grade level, it is up to parents to provide them with the additional instruction needed to catch up in skills. Even the most hard working and study skill efficient students can only achieve to the level of their foundation. If your child does everything you observed possible to study and prepare for a test and the grade is a “C”, applaud their effort and remain positive. This is an opportunity for you to teach a life lesson about character which they will carry into later years.

By practicing these principles regarding your children’s’ academics and your involvement in their education, changes will begin to take place. Remember, however, like your children, you will have good and bad days employing these new principles. When you falter, pick yourself up and resume your new strategy. Have an enjoyable and productive school year!

You may e-mail Carol Woods at ccwood@bellsouth.net or visit company’s website, www.totallearningconcepts.com.

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