OurTown April 2012

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town April 2012

Lilburn l Lawrenceville l Snellville l Grayson

Meet Carol Karpf of The SaltLight Center

r e t s a E y p ap

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STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

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PRSRT PAID U.S. POSTAGE

Our Town

Visit Us Online at OurTownMag.org

For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • ourtownmagazine@bellsouth.net

Connect with us PAGE 1

Neil & Betty’s Story Please join us for this One Night Only Celebration

I LIKE TO INTRODUCE TO YOU TWO OF MY MOST AMAZING PATIENTS, NEIL AND BETTY.

with over $3,000 in Give-aways, Cocktails, and THEY Hors D’oeuvres.

PLEASE READ THEIR STORY. DEMONSTRATE THAT AGE IS TRULY JUST A NUMBER!

RESEARCH SHOWS THAT THE HUMAN BODY WAS DESIGNED TO BE VIBRANT AND HEALTHY UNTIL SOMEWHERE BETWEEN 80-90 YEARS OF AGE AND THEN OUR BODIES BEGIN TO “GIVE OUT” OR METABOLICALLY DEGENERATE. NEIL AND BETTY ARE THE “POSTER KIDS” FOR THE RESULTS OF A HEALTHY DIET, EXERCISE AND FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE! THEY ARE TRULY AN INSPIRATION FOR ALL OF US! Yours in Health, Dr. Gravante

Documentation has confirmed many illness forms such as heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are increasing at an alarming rate in our country. There are several factors contributing to this situation. Over the years I have witnessed many of my associates succumb to various health issues which often have fatal consequences. I concluded you have the sole responsibility for your longevity and quality of life. Much of my prevention efforts are based on fitness and nutrition.

My weekly fitness program is a balanced approach to exercise. Three days are dedicated to resistance training using weights, kettlebells, bands, and other methods such as chin-ups and pushups. Aerobic training is performed on the alternate three days including walking, cycling, rowing machine or small trampoline rebounding with hand weights. The seventh day is for recovery.

My wife and I enjoy climbing Stone Mountain with our Trekking poles. We all have busy schedules; therefore I try to limit training to an hour daily.

Several years ago I had to adjust my eating style due to an elevated cholesterol concern. We tried various “hit and miss” diets and supplement programs without much satisfaction. My wife and I attended one of Dr. Gravante’s workshops two years ago. We discovered the value of balanced nutrition and quality supplements through her Functional Medicine approach. She monitors our progress semi annually and makes encouraging suggestions. We avoid processed foods and live mainly on a plant based diet with quality supplements.

Our results: excellent health, ideal weight, better sleep, increased energy, positive outlook, and a healthy Future.

Neil and Elizabeth Walters ~70’s and still climbing

Are you ready to feel better and get healthy?

Call Dr. Gravante today!

Call Today for Your Appointment!

678.990.9400

Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by Monday, June 15.

We’re looking forward to meeting you at our Summer Evening Open House!

Lorraine Gravante, D.C.

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

NUTRITIONAL WORKSHOPS See our website for a complete listing of workshops. at Dr. Gravante’s office 7:00 PM April 24th May 22nd Please call to reserve your seat!

678.990.9400 www.drgravante.com 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 PAGE 2 For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • ourtownmagazine@bellsouth.net Dr. Gravante is not intended as a primary therapy for any disease. Prior to starting any diet, nutrition or exercise program, you should consult with your medical physician.

Our Town

Our Town

For Advertising information Call 770.222.2699 • ourtownmagazine@bellsouth.net

PAGE 3

April 2012 IN THIS ISSUE…

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town

Lilburn

l

Lawenceville

Publisher/Editor

l

Snellville

D. Flores

Norma Flores

Graphics

and

Our Town

l

About the Cover......................................................................5

Grayson

Contributing Writers:

Glenton Ashby Chef Jennifer Hill Booker Susan Cadley, LPC Sagdrina Jalal, BS Ed, CPT Carol Chandler-Wood Julie Mills, CMT, LLCC Shayla Ortiz Dr. Pat Zook Dr. Deva Prather Althea Lawton-Thompson

Design

Cover Photo D. Flores

Calendar of Events.................................................................7, 15 Fitness: Great Abs........................................................................8 Finance: Shrink Bill....................................................................9 Skin Care: ACNE..........................................................................10 Counselor’s Corner: What seeds are stirring in you....................11 Education Corner: Exercise and school....................................11 Wellness: For Kids Only .......................................................12 APR Crossword...........................................................................12 Health: Time.......................................................................13

Our Town Magazine

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 Pet Page: ................................................................................16/17 Recipe: ......................................................................................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 2012 by Our Town. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

Follow us on Twitter & Facebook.

Find links at www.ourtownmag.org

March 1 to May 1 Help the Gwinnett community by creating decorated shoebox care packages filled with toiletries. Gifts will be distributed to homeless women and children in Gwinnett on Mother’s Day, so please submit your packages by May 1. Make sure your box can be opened for safety inspections.

Dropoff location or for more information:

Vanessa Roussell, United Way Gwinnett dropoff coordinator, 2763 Meadow Creek Road, Suite 210, Duluth, GA 30097. Call 404.527.8804 to schedule a dropoff.

unitedwayatlanta.org/shoeboxproject

Page 4 Shoebox Project_Our Town ad 1

Items needed:

-travel size shampoo -deodorant -travel size soap -toothbrush -toothpaste -travel size lotion -hair comb/brush -sun protector -lip balm -adhesive bandages

-hand towels -antibiotic ointment -socks -tampons -panty liners -travel size water bottles -rain ponchos -resealable zipper storage bags -prepaid phone cards

We cannot accept: medicine, food, sewing kits, used or opened items

For Advertising Information Call 404-824-5396 • E-mail: life@OurTownMag.org 3/15/12 1:35 PM

Our Town Magazine

ABOUT THE COVER Meet Carol Karpf of SaltLight Center The flowers and trees are in full bloom as the fragrant spring breeze delivers the news that spring has arrived. The changes of the season are evident with the pastel colors display on every garden bed and tree. Isn’t the change in temperature and scenery lovely and refreshing? Quickly following a drab winter, change for the better is warranted, needed. As the atmospheric changes determine the seasons, Carol Love Karpf is changing the bleak and lonely season of many Gwinnett families. She is a refreshing breeze of love and kindness that changes their harsh cold life into a hopeful colorful future.

Carol Love Karpf is the director of Family Promise’s Salt Light Center which is the first emergency shelter for women and children, located in Lawrenceville. The Salt Light center is a homeless shelter in Gwinnett County meeting the needs of families that have nowhere else to go. Opened daily they offer a warm bed and food to the most needy. From her small cozy office adequately entitled “Love”, Carol has renovated the term “shelter”. Having only been open and operating for four months, Salt Light has served over 60 women and children. The center is comprised of four rooms that completely shatter the preconceived notion of a “shelter”. At once women and children are met with peaceful, colorful and inviting rooms that inspire hope with soft neutral colored walls and beds draped in vibrant bedding. Each child upon arrival receives a teddy bear for comfort; while the mothers are pleasantly surprised with a dainty tote replenished with the essential toiletries for a lady. Carol evidently pours out a little bit of herself in every room and in every detail of this home/shelter.

Carol Love Karpf, the heart beat of Salt Light, recently finished her work as the first Gwinnett Summer Lunch Coordinator for MUST Ministries, where she successfully managed the expansion of the organizations kid’s “Meals on Wheels” program into Gwinnett County.

Before switching into the ministry world, Carol worked as a marketing coordinator and forensic accountant at Ernst & Young LLC in Atlanta.

She received her bachelors in Accounting from the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. A native of Gwinnett County, Carol attended Greater Atlanta Christian School in Norcross. She resides in Lilburn, GA with her husband Joe and their two dogs, Napoleon and Jasmine.

When asked, “What can OTM readers do to help you continue this ministry?”

Carol immediately answered, “Volunteers”. “We need volunteers to cover the morning, evening and overnight shift. People can drop off home made dinners or stay and serve it. What ever works best for them.” Her enthusiasm for the ministry is infectious and urges you to take part in making a difference in someone’s life. We are all a couple of paychecks away from homelessness, in today’s economy it’s not an unlikely scenario. Are you in a good season in your life? Salt Light can use monetary donations. Are you in a bad season in your life? You can give of your time. Want to make a difference in your community? Now is the time.

If you NEED SHELTER, contact the Gwinnett Helpline at 770-995-3339 If you would like to VOLUNTEER, contact Carol Love Karpf at 770-885-2947 To view the Salt Light wish list visit http://familypromisegwinnett.org Also mark your calendars for the Family Promise of Gwinnett Bed Race which is Saturday, April 21 from 10 am – 3 pm in downtown, historic Lawrenceville.

Our Town Magazine

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

Writer, Shayla Ortiz

Page 5

                 

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1 coupon per family.

Expires 4/20/12 OTAPRIL

Page 6

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

Our Town Magazine

Happy Easter 2012

April Calendar Disney On Ice- Treasure Trove April 1, 2012 Arena at Gwinnett Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth www.ticketmaster.com Bring your Princess and Prince to an exciting child friendly iceskating adventure with Disney On Ice! Stone Moutain Park’s Lastershow Spectacular (tm) March 1-7, 2012 Stone Moutain Park U.S. Hwy 78 East. Stone Mtn www.stonemountainpark.com The show features 45 minutes of spectacular fireworks, lights and laser effects all choreographed to great music.

Clyde & Bonnie: A Folktale March 1-8, 2012 Aurora Theatre 128 Pike Street. Lawrenceville www.auroratheatre.com America’s most romantic gangsters Jr. Knight Training April 1 - 8, 2012 Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament 5900 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville www.medievaltimes.com Many children dream of living in a time of chivalry, wielding weapons and being crowned CHAMPIONS.

Nunsense 2: The Second Coming April 1-15, 2012 New London Theatre 2338 Henry Clower Blvd. SW, Snellville www.newlondontheatre.org Fine Art Exhibit April 2-18, 2012 Gwinnett Historic Courthouse 185 W. Crogan St. Lawrenceville www.christiestudio.com Lawrenceville is honored to have an exhibit of world renowned artist Robert Christie.

Gwinnett Braves All-Stars vs. Future Stars Game April 3, 2012 Coolray Field One Braves Ave. Lawrenceville www.gwinnettbraves.com Bring the famiy and enjoy a preview of both the Atlanta and Gwinnett versions of the 2012 Braves Kidgits Easter Egg Hunt April 7, 2012 Mall of Georgia / The Village 3333 Buford Drive, Buford www.simon.com/kidgits Underwater Egg Hunt April 7, 2012 Bethesda Park Aquatic Center

225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville www.gwinnettseniorgoldengames.org We provide seniors 50 years of age and older with an opportunity to participate in a variety of sports. Event locations varies throughout all Gwinnett County Parks. See website for details.

The Michael Douglas Youth Foundation and the Harlem Legends have teamed up with Amanda Riley Foundation to present the Harlem Legends Celebrity Basketball Show

Hooppin’ Easter Half Marathon 10k & 5k April 8, 2012 Lenora Park 4515 Lenora Church Rd, Snellville www.active.com Entire course will be run on a wide paved bike path through a beautiful scenic park.

Comedy Competition and Dinner April 13, 2012 Bogan Park Community Recreation Center 2723 North Bogan Road, Buford www.gwinnettcounty.com So, you think you’re funny? Or do you just need a good laugh? Celebrate International Moment of Laughter Day with dinner and a comedy competition.

GGC Lab Series Presents “The Preposterous Case of Miss Pina Colada” April 12-29, 2012 Latin American Folktales Aurora Theatre April 7, 2012 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville Aurora Theatre www.auroratheatre.com 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville Join us for the hilarious hijinks of a widow www.auroratheatre.com trying to keep up appearances in the midst of 45 minute Children’s Playhouse show geared towards enjoyable, family-friendly entertainment. diminishing fortunes.

Red hot Chili Peppers April 10, 2012 Arena at Gwinnett Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth www.ticketmaster.com Rock/Pop band with supporting act, Santogold.

Annual Gwinnett Senior Golden Games April 11 - May 25th 2012 Various Gwinnett County Parks 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville www.harlemlegends.com

Taking Back the Country Tour April 13, 2012 Arena at Gwinnett Center www.ticketmaster.com Jamey Johnson and 38 Special opening up for Hank William Jr. and His Rowdy Friends!

Continued on pg. 15

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    

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      Our Town Magazine

  

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  

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

Page 7

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FITNESS Great abs are made in the kitchen not the gym.

“Get Bikini ready in six easy steps” “Tighten your Tush with our Beach Bottom Workout” these are not actual article titles but you get the idea. Publishers know spring has sprung and they are more the eager to lure us in by making extreme claims.

While it is possible to see changes in your body in a short time, it must start with what you eat. Brazilian researchers determined that about 75% of weight loss is controlled by diet. Focusing on increasing certain foods in your diet leaves less room for the bad stuff! If a yellow polka dot bikini is on your wish list, consider including these foods in your spring eating plan: Raw Vegetables: Perhaps the only food you can eat with reckless abandon. Go ahead, fill up on broccoli, greens and tomatoes!

Beans: Beans are considered a super food because they offer a winning combination: fiber + protein. This makes for a very satisfied dieter.

Fruit: A medium-size banana will fill you up and boost your metabolism. A cup of blueberries provide 4 grams of fiber with only 80 calories. Apples are an easy to carry snack that fills your belly.

Quinoa: Often mistaken for a grain, quinoa is actually a seed. A new kid on the block, quinoa helps you fill fuller longer with fewer calories.

Nuts: This convenient snack food can fill in a much needed gap between meals. Be careful...portion control is critical.

Eggs: One study found that overweight women who ate eggs for breakfasts lost twice as much weight as women who started their days with bagels.

Salmon: Omega-3s are the champs when it comes to keeping bodies fueled and healthy.

Salmon is chock full of them.

Green Tea: Studies indicate that green tea limits fat storage and increases metabolism.

There also seems to be a connection between fat loss in the mid section and drinking green tea.

Avocado: Bring out the guacamole! A compound in avocados’ healthy monounsaturated fats (MUFAs), may trigger your body to quiet hunger.

Wine: Yes, drinking wine in moderation can be good for your waistline. As a matter of fact, one glass can rev up your calorie burn for up to 90 minutes and can also curb cravings for sweets.

While I can’t promise wash board abs in six weeks, I can tell you from experience that what you eat makes all the difference. A sensible diet that gives you fuel and keeps you satisfied will get you sporting that two piece before you know it!

By Sagdrina Jalal, BS Ed, CPT, Fitness Consultant, Inner Strength Fitness, 404-271-0071 www.innerstrength-fitness.com

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

Our Town Magazine

FINANCE

Shrink Bill: Vol. 1 (or Kick The Habit)

I

By Glenton Ashby

t was not a dark or stormy night. Somewhere a dog barked. (Actually the dog was next door.)

Bill sat down to see what bills would have to be paid and how much was available to pay them. “Oh no! Not again!” Bill put his head in his hands.

Too many times in the last several months that was the reaction upon going to pay bills. Why? Because too many times there was more that needed to be paid out than was actually available to go out from regular income.

How did they get to that point? More importantly, how were they going to get out of this monthly rut?

The Good: Credit card bills were always paid in full each month.

The Bad: The various credit card payments continually exceeded cash available after paying other bills and making non-credit card expenditures. He kept trying to reduce the amounts on credit cards and do more real-time spending but he could never get balanced between the two. There was just no catching up to upcoming credit card bills.

The Ugly: On paper there was enough income to meet normal obligations and spending and have something left over, but in practice things just were not working out that way. (See “The Bad” above.) They were moving into using a line of credit to make up any monthly short-fall. Really that was essentially the same as carrying credit card balances.

The Problem: Spending too much via credit card.

The Solution: Radical and immediate change.

The mission Bill chose to accept: Make the transition from paying by credit card most of the time to spending with cash or by debit card almost all of the time.

To get off to a running start it was necessary to inject extra cash into the family checking account. That would jump start development of the more cash, less credit habit. Some short-term pain for the long-term gain was going to be necessary. The cash infusion came from the emergency fund that had stayed untouched up to this point.

WHAT ARE YOU DOING THE NEXT 10 SATURDAYS? Become a Dental Assistant in your spare time!

Next would come the task of using the debit card instead of the credit card for almost all spending.

The near term goals: Get to the balance point of income exceeding expenditures each month instead of the other way around.

Properly fund an account to pay annual or semi-annual bills such as vacation, insurance or HVAC maintenance with a monthly set-aside. Getting out of that habit had contributed to the problem.

Pay off an outstanding line of credit balance.

• Led by a team of working dental professionals in a professional environment with modern digital radiology.

The long term goals: Not to fall back into the bad habit.

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To be continued…

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.

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The Dental Staff School is now offering cross training courses that include Front Office Administration and Orthodontic assisting in order to better train tomorrow’s leading dental assistants. Please visit our website for more information.

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Page 9

SERIOUS RESULTS FOR SERIOUS STUDENTS Prepare with the Professionals at TLC to Maximize Your Test Scores and Grades!

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SKIN CARE

Acne is a FOUR letter word!

Acne is a common skin disorder which does not discriminate.

It affects both men and women of all ages, and across all ethnic groups. In fact, at least 80% of adolescents and young adults are dealing with acne to some degree. Research also shows that a large number of women over 25 are battling it and well into their 40’s. This is why it’s such a far reaching issue with no definitive way to treat – it’s not a one size fits all.

Acne is a disease of the pilosebaceous unit. i.e., a hair follicle and an oil gland. The cause of acne is male and female hormones affecting the sebaceous (oil) gland. During puberty, these hormones are in much higher concentrations. Stress can also contribute to hormonal changes by increasing adrenal gland activity, which in turn increases oil production. So, you take more oil and a lack of exfoliation, it now becomes a perfect environment for p-acne bacteria to grow. Now you have a good fight on your hands.

Acne has many different characteristics from blackheads, red papules, and pustules to painful nodules and cysts. “This is why you have to take different avenues to treat each one.”

Says Kelly Schoeneck, esthetician at About Face Skin Care, “Sometimes the first thing you try isn’t the right one, but you continue until you find what works.”Understanding that is the first step in treatment. Kelly has 8 years’ experience treating acne for people of all ages and is known as the “Teen Queen” among About Face staffers for her ability to resolve many stubborn acne cases for frustrated teens that have tried it all.

There are many different treatment options and they vary

Page 10

with the degree of acne. However, they all need to contain active ingredients products that increase cell turnover rate, kill bacteria in the pore, reduce inflammation and control sebum production. Here are a few examples: • Salicylic Acid – Is a beta hydroxy acid which increases exfoliation preventing pores from clogging, correcting abnormal keratinization.

• Benzoyl Peroxide – Kills bacteria and oxidizes the oils on the surface of the skin.

• Glycolic Acid – Helps sebum production and eliminating abnormal keratinization.

• Vitamin A – Increases cell turnover rate.

• And while these products are available at many drug store and department store counters, it takes the proper combination and strength to adequately treat this tricky problem.

About Face Skin Care knows how important it is to feel good about yourself and how having acne can negatively affect that.

We offer many different treatment options to help fight this widespread problem. We look forward to meeting you!

Chrissy Thomas, RN, BSN www.aboutfaceskin.com 770-935-FACE See our ad on page 19 (back inside cover)

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EDUCATION Corner Exercise and School Success

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By Carol Wood, Founder & CEO, Total Learning Concepts

s there a correlation between physical exertion and academic success? Educators have speculated for years that by limiting the amount of exercise breaks for students during the school day, we may have hampered 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 have all became more sedentary in our lifestyle. This has resulted in not only weight problems for many, but research has found that there is a strong correlation between physical activity and brain function. This finding could help 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 have proven that regular exercise, even if only two times each week, is beneficial and offers significant advantages. Physical activity has been 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, has 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 and owner of Total Learning Concepts, Inc., a private, professional tutorial service located in Gwinnett County. Please email questions to ccwood@bellsouth.net or fax to 770-381-1626. OTM

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Counselor’s Corner What Seeds are Stirring in You? By Susan Cadley

It’s showing signs of spring with the trees inching out their buds. The warmer winter weather has coaxed the life force to begin its way into manifestation. It’s always an exciting treat to see the color emerge after the gray of winter. The trees, though bare and beige, have been pulsing with sap deep within their center. The winter energy is about concentration and conservation, until it’s safe and sound to emerge.

Nature has an innate intelligence built in about timing and balance. There is a rhythm it follows, and we can tap into this rhythm as we are part of nature too.

What can you name right now that you’ve been thinking about creating, changing, updating, adding, or removing in your life? Naming is a powerful tool. State it, say it out loud, or write it down, or share with it with someone. It’s the first step and it makes it real.

The stirring state is a place of gathering ideas, information and energy. This is where you contemplate; it’s not a time for taking firm action. Just as nature draws in and conserves, it’s important to take your time here. No rushing is required.

As you create space for the stirring, the timing will reveal itself. You will know that you’ve gathered enough and it’s time. If fear appears and you feel hesitant, check in with yourself to see if it’s about gathering more information or if it’s the fear of making a change. When you are ready, name the fear and move ahead with it right by your side. It’s a normal part of change and creating.

Honor your stirrings and the movement of change. It’s where the blooms wait within you.

Susan Cadley, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Soul Coach is available for couples/ adult individual counseling and workshops in Suwanee, GA. She may be reached directly and confidentially at 678-296-1278; www.coachingforyoursoul.com

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Page 11

WELLNESS

For Kids Only

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

By Althea Lawton-Thompson

I

didn’t realize my 9-year old son, Malik, had never seen me cry until he did. We were having lunch at a restaurant one afternoon in February when I received a call from my sister-friend’s oncologist.

“I’m sorry Mrs. Thompson. There’s really nothing else we can do. I will have a representative from hospice talk with you about options for your sister.”

As Malik watched the tears slowly streaming down my cheeks, his eyes began to fill with tears.

He reached out and touched my hand. “What’s wrong Mommy?” he asked, and I could hear the alarm and concern in his voice. How do you explain to a 9-year old that a woman who is a daily part of his life and family is dying?

Many of you reading this are either struggling with cancer yourself or have assisted a loved one in their journey with this disease. Many times, we are so caught up in the cancer patient and the caregiver, we forget about how the children in our lives are affected by chemotherapy, radiation, oncology clinic visits, physical changes, and even loss.

Some of the clients at my fitness studio, AYM, are part of the cancer support and medical team at DeKalb Medical Center. They have been a wealth of knowledge, resources and support during my journey with my sister. One of the best resources offered is for children – The Treehouse Gang.

The Treehouse Gang, named by the children who first participated in the program in 1994, is an education and support group for children affected by the treatment and/or loss of a loved one due to cancer. Sponsored by the DeKalb Medical Center’s cancer support group, this resource is free and open to all children regardless of where their loved one is being treated.

When I heard about the activities in which the children participated, I was amazed. They use microscopes to observe red and white blood cells and platelets while learning about cancer and what it means scientifically. A tour of the diagnostic center allows them to see inside the human body through various machines and x-ray film. They visit the therapy center and learn about the process of radiation. And for those who have lost a loved one, there are emotional support seminars to discuss how the loss has affected the child’s family and the child him or herself.

If your child or a child you know could benefit from this resource, call the DeKalb Medical Center’s Treehouse Gang directly at 404-501-5701. You can also learn more about the group and see pictures of the kids in action at HYPERLINK “http://www.dekalbmedical.org” www.dekalbmedical.org and click on Cancer Center and Resources.

I know this program will not only be helpful to Malik, but it will make it easier for our whole family to understand and cope with the affects of cancer on our lives. Visit my blog to read more about our family’s cancer journey – HYPERLINK “http://www.aymfitness.blogspot. com” www.aymfitness.blogspot.com.

?

Althea is the owner of Aerobics, Yoga & More Studios in Lilburn and producer of the Altheatized video series. Email your fitness or wellness comment or question to her at Althea@AYMFitness.com..

Page 12

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Our Town Magazine

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Time…Game Time…Work Time…School Time….. Quality Time……Time!

Health and you

Julie Mills, CMT, LLCC

The Game…..Playing the Game…..Sitting on the side lines……Winning….Losing!

Well, my folks there are only 24 hours in a day for each and every one of us, so how are you going to spend it? Are you going to play full out with the time you have or are you going to let it slide by and sit on the side lines?

As I thought about what I wanted to share with you in this month’s newsletter, I was struck by TIME! The players have to play their best in the short amount of time that is on the clock. We have to perform our best for the short amount of time we are on the time clock at work. Are we going to let the trivial things in life take over the time we have or are we going to make the most of it?

Being a massage therapist, I frequently hear that people don’t have time. Time for therapy, or to eat right or stretch or exercise or sleep! Not enough time! I’ve touched on this subject in several of my past newsletters, however, I wanted to approach it a little differently this time. I really want you to get this - your body does not lie. When I work with my clients, I can actually feel the stress, fatigue, and over-used muscles that result from pushing the envelope and abusing....time. Those upper traps are often drawn upward and knotted due to stress and from sitting at the computer for hours on end. I hear complaints that pecs and arms are numb and tingling. This is due to the muscles being so tight. The brachial nerve is being compressed which causes neurological issues throughout your arms. The mid thorasics, or the area between the shoulder blades, are so hardened and tight that it hurts for some clients to move. The lower back is actually spasmed and extremely tight. This causes pain to sit or stand.

How do we get like this? Why are we in so much pain? The

Our Town Magazine

answer is simple. You take an Advil to get through the day and ignore the pain. You ignore your body telling you to take a break, stretch, and take care of you! Getting a massage is the last thing on your list because you consider it “pampering” yourself and by no means do you have time for that!

Well, from a therapist point of view, a massage is exactly what you need! You need touch! It is amazing how the body reacts and releases tension with simple touch. There are several therapies used to help with chronic pain and tension. I thought in this edition I would talk about Myofascial Release and Neuromuscular Therapy. They are extremely effective treatments for muscles that have been over-used and tense.

Myofascial Release is a specialized stretching technique used by physical and massage therapists to treat individuals with a variety of soft tissue problems. This technique focuses on the stretching of the fascia. The fascia is a thin tissue that covers all the organs and fibers within each muscle of the body. The stretch is guided by feedback the therapist feels from the client’s body. This feedback tells the therapist how much force to apply, the direction of the stretch, and how long to hold the stretch. Small areas of muscle are stretched at a time. Sometimes the area is so small that the therapist can use only two fingers to stretch that part of the muscle.

Each release technique contains the same components. The therapist finds the area of tightness, then a light stretch is applied to the tight area, then the therapist waits for the tissue to relax, and then increases the stretch. The process is repeated until the area is fully relaxed.

Most clients are surprised by how gentle Myofascial Release is.

Some clients fall asleep during treatment. Others report going home and needing to take a nap. Most patients find this type of therapy to be a very relaxing form of treatment.

Neuromuscular Release (trigger point therapy) is less gentle and can sometimes be uncomfortable. The therapist applies firm pressure to knots or tight, tense, muscles that have been overused or injured. The pressure is continued until the muscles relax. Applying constant pressure to an acute, tense, muscle sends a signal to the entrapped nerve to release. This allows the entire area to relax and soften.

Neuromuscular release restores much needed blood and oxygen to the muscle and affected area. This allows the muscle to function with less pain.

You can do a lot of things at home to keep your muscles and body in great shape.

You can use a Pilates Foam Roller to do passive stretches to open up your chest and stretch the back.

You can get up from the computer and do door stretches to help your arms and pecs and back.

You can drink lots of water to keep the verbrae hydrated and the discs cushioned.

You can take a break and walk around to rest your brain and de-stress for a moment You can set your alarm on your phone and do a body check in to see if you have eaten, taken a break, stretched or even laughed!

All of these things sound so simple but are, once again so very important. You do not have to be in pain and suffer.

Take steps today to feel better and have a wonderful quality of life! I gotta go – don’t want to miss the kickoff!

Julie Mills, CMT, LLCC of Body of Health See our ad on page 4 www.bodyofhealthandlife.com

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Page 13

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Our Town Magazine

CALENDAR - Continued Continued from pg. 7

Yard Sale April 14, 2012 Mountain Park Aquatic Center 1063 Rockbridge Rd., Stone Mountain www.gwinnettcounty.com Community parking lot sale!

Boy Scout Expo April 14, 2012 Gwinnett County Fairgrounds 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville www.nega-bsa.org Bring your Boy Scout out to learn and explore!

Digital Groove w/ Tiesto April 14, 2012 Wild Bill’s Country Music Dance Hall 2075 Market St., Duluth www.ticketmaster.com Swing Nights April 14, 2012 Aurora Theatre 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville www.auroratheatre.com Swing Night is led by the Metro Jazz Club

1001 Old Snellville Highway, Lawrenceville www.inglesidepca.org Come join us for Ingleside’s Spring Festival 2-4 PM. There will be a petting zoo, bounce house, crafts, games and activities for the whole family. Let’s celebrate spring!

McKeever First Ride April 21, 2012 Gwinnett County Fairgrounds 2405 Sugarload Pkwy, Lawrenceville www.gwinnettcountyfair.com Mountain View Bear Tear 5K Run/Walk April 21, 2012 Mountain View High School 2351 Sunny Hill Rd, Lawrenceville www.active.com come out and join us for a great community event around our Mountain View High School campus!

Cannon Church Holy Week Services April 1-8th Canon Church in Snellville www.cannonchurch.org From Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday worship. See website for details.

Spring Festival April 14, 2012 Ingleside Presbyterian Church

Nutritional Worskshop April 24th, 2012 Dr. Gravante’s Office 1790 Presidential Circle, Suite A www.drgravante.com Are you ready to feel better and get healthy? RSVP: 678-990-9400 Doll and Me Tea April 21, 2012 Gwinnett Historic Courthouse 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville www.gwinnettcounty.com Bring you favorite character doll and dress alike, enjoy desserts and tea, participate in the doll fashion show too!

Broad Street Country Market April 21-June 30, 2012 Loganville City Hall 4385 Pecan St., Loganville www.loganville-ga.gov 2012 Gwinnett Senior Lifestyle Showcase April 21, 2012 Bethesda Senior Center 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville www.kofclilburn.org The Lifestyle Showcase will consist of displays by businesses and senior groups from across the county who serve our senior population.

Lilburn Community Garage Sale April 21, 2012 Lilburn City Park 76 Main Street, Lilburn www.cityoflilburn.com The City of Lilburn is hosting the Community Garage Sale for vendors who want to sell and browsers who want to find some treasures!

Monthly Family Breakfast April 1, 2012 9:30am-1pm Killian Hall 908 Killian Hill Rd. Lilburn www.kofclilburn.org See website for detials and Mama Marion’s Lasagna on Thurs April 19 @ 5:30.

8th Annual Lilburn Relay Rally April 27, 2012 Lilburn C ity Park 76 Main Street, Lilburn www.cityoflilburn.com Come out and show your support

Further updates on things to do in Gwinnett, see our social media links at www.ourtownmag.org

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Page 15

PET PAGE PET OF THE MONTH

TO KEEP A SPRING IN THE STEP, YOU NEED FLEXIBILITY IN THE SPINE

Mitsy Rose is a 16 ounce miniature Chihuahua. She is Eleven (11) weeks old and a native of Louisiana. We purchased her in Sunset, Louisiana on our way to Texas for the Christmas holidays. She was the darling of the family gathering and continues to be full of life. She loves to be held and cuddled. Her large and beautiful eyes are full of expression and love.

Lileta

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

S

pring is in the air, and it carries with it the sight of many dogs out running and playing in the parks, chasing frisbees, and fetching balls all for a bit of fun.

This brings to my mind the reminder that all dogs are athletes; and, as athletes, they can benefit from therapeutic manipulations or adjustments to their spines.

Many dogs can suffer from small misalignments in their spines just as people can. Misalignment can occur from such things as slips or falls, jumping or landing incorrectly, crashes with other dogs, and collisions with various furniture and or landscape. The results of such incidents may vary. Your dog may seem almost unaffected by a mishap, or s/he may be slow to move at first, but then seem to recover quite rapidly. What may go un-noticed by the naked eye is that the “normal” activity of movement does not fully return to their body’s gait. The symptoms of a misalignment may be very subtle and present themselves in small ways. If your dog is an active/working dog such as a frisbee dog, this may present as a loss in the height or distance of a jump. For an agility dog, a loss of fluidity when weaving through the poles may occur. In a lure coursing dog, perhaps a shortening of the stride may result. Whatever the activities may be that you and your dog enjoy spending time doing together, the bottom line is that the spine and the movement of the body are intricately connected. Muscle depends on bone and vice versa for a healthy, agile movement and lifestyle.

Some symptoms can also be more pronounced and present themselves as lameness or reluctance and or an inability to do certain activities. Along the spine, areas of muscle tightness or reduced flexion and areas of pain and or tenderness, with or without heat or swelling, can be present and make your dog uncomfortable. A veterinary exam must be done to ensure that no other serious damage such as a fracture, dislocation, severe tendon/muscle damage or neurological problem is present. For more advanced cases, radiographs may need to be taken to rule out fractures or disc disease. If no evidence of other serious injury which might contraindicate spinal manipulation is present then a simple spinal adjustment can be done. During a spinal adjustment tools such as an Activator™ or a Vetrostim™ unit may be used. In other cases, the adjustment may be done with the hands. In addition to an adjustment, the veterinarian may suggest some massage therapy to compliment the adjustment and help the patient’s body to be able to hold the spinal manipulation better. In some cases, spinal adjustments are just part of a treatment. For instance, with some cases of intervertebral disc disease, (IVDD), adjustments can be helpful with disc healing; especially when combined with acupuncture treatments.

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In many cases, just a single spinal adjustment session with the dog restores its normal flexibility, and returns the normal gait and movement. In other cases, muscle spasms persisting from the previous malposition, may require the use of muscle relaxers, pain killers, even acupuncture, and also may require more than one therapeutic adjustment or manipulation to achieve the normal fluid motion. Geriatric or arthritic patients may also benefit from adjustments.

The stiffness in the body from not moving properly can lead to further pathology and pain.

Restoring as much of the natural flexibility that is still remaining can help promote healthier movement overall and affects the nervous system in a healing manner.

Restoring the spine to its most flexible helps to promote the best functioning of the nervous system and overall health of the body for that added glimpse of spring we are all looking for!!

Dr. Pat Zook Gwinnett Animal Hospital, www.gwinnettanimalhospital.com (see ad on next page) 770-972-0447

Page 16

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Our Town Magazine

PET PAGE

PET OF THE MONTH

My 6 Tips for Keeping Your Dog Healthy 1. Take your dog to the vet yearly. This is a chance for your vet to evaluate your dog for underlying diseases. The physical exam allows the vet to examine the teeth for signs of infection, the skin for fleas and ticks, the ears for inflammation, the eyes for cataracts, the heart for early signs of compromise, the abdomen for internal masses, document any new lumps and bumps and find signs of early arthritis. A fecal sample can be collected to evaluate for internal parasites and blood can be drawn to check for heartworms as well as other common diseases like diabetes, kidney and liver disease.

2. Keep your dog on heartworm and flea/tick prevention. Heartworm infection is 100% preventable with monthly heartworm medication, but this must be given for the life of the pet. Another benefit of heartworm medication is that it treats other internal parasites like roundworms and hookworms which not only cause weight loss and diarrhea in dogs but can also be transmitted to humans. Fleas and ticks are not only a nuisance and can cause discomfort to your pet but these parasites carry diseases that can infect your dog systemically like Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever or Ehrlichia.

3. Keep your dogs teeth clean. There is very strong evidence on the human and veterinary side that chronic infection in the mouth can exacerbate many diseases like diabetes, heart and kidney disease. Brushing is the number one way to keep your dogs mouth sparkling clean. Start this when your dog is a puppy by putting your hands in the mouth early.

If the teeth and gums are looking bad despite brushing consider a dental cleaning under anesthesia. This is a safe procedure that be done on dogs of any age and allows for a more aggressive cleaning and detailed evaluation by a veterinarian. At this time if any teeth are broken or infected, they can be addressed.

4. Walk your dog. Obesity and joint disease are very common in dogs and much of this can be avoided by keeping your dog thin and flexible with a daily walk. Many behavior problems can also be solved by walking as this provides not only exercise for the body but mental stimulation. Separation anxiety, aggression, and hyper-excitability can all be helped with exercise.

Buddy (left) is my container cat. He gets in any container and loves to be carried around in a plastic bag. He is not shy and loves to play with anyone.

Buster (right) is sweet and shy. He LOVES his MaMa!! If he can’t find me, he screams as loud as he can. It sounds like MaMur!!!

I don’t know what I would do without them both!!

Sue

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

5. Invest in puppy classes. “Bad” or unsuitable behavior is the number one cause of death to dogs in the United States as these animals are relinquished to shelters and then subsequently euthanized. By spending the time and money to train your dog as a puppy you are ensuring a rewarding and lasting relationship over the next 10 to 15 years. Adult dogs at any age are still trainable so a little time invested goes a long way to a better behaved companion.

6. Spay or neuter your dog. Spaying your dog before 6 months of age prevents mammary, uterine and ovarian cancer. It also prevents a pyometra, an infected uterus, which can be a life threatening emergency requiring surgical intervention. Neutering prevents prostatic infection, aggression and traumas (like being hit by a car) secondary to roaming after female dogs in “heat”. Lastly, although not directly tied to the health of your dog you can know that you are helping prevent pet overpopulation, which is important to the health of all dogs in the United States!

By Dr. Deva Prather., DVM The Village Vets Lilburn/Stone Moutnain (see ad on back)

www.mansbestfriend.com

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

Our Town Magazine

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

Page 17

Recipe Root Vegetable Chili with Orange and Cilantro Original recipe by Chef Jennifer Booker This is a fantastic vegetarian chili recipe! I’ve adapted it from Williams-Sonoma’s Big Bowls of Chili Technique Class so that it can be made in the Cuisinart Pressure Cooker.

The fresh squeezed orange juice adds a fresh zip and the cilantro gives the chili great color and a wonderful aroma.

Root Vegetable Chili with Orange and Cilantro Yields 4 servings Ingredients 2Tbs olive oil 1 yellow onion, chopped 3 garlic cloves, minced 2 tsp ground cumin 1 tsp ground coriander 1 tsp chili powder 1sweet potato, about 3⁄4lb, peeled and diced 2 carrots, about 1⁄2lb total, peeled and diced 11⁄2 cups vegetable broth 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with juice 1 can (15 oz) kidney or pinto beans, drained and rinsed 2 Tbs fresh squeezed orange juice 1⁄2 tsp smoked paprika or ground chipotle peppers 2Tbs chopped fresh cilantro Sea Salt and freshly ground Black Pepper, to taste Optional: garnish with green onion and diced avocado

Page 18

Directions Set your Cuisinart Electric Pressure Cooker on sauté.

Add the olive oil, onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the cumin, coriander, and chili powder and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add the sweet potato, carrots, broth, diced tomatoes with their juice. Set the Cuisinart pressure cooker to High Pressure for 10 minutes.

Quick Release the pressure once the pressure cooker’s timer has counted down to zero and the timer had beeped.

Carefully remove the lid. Add pinto beans, orange juice, paprika, and cilantro. Adjust flavor with salt and pepper.

Enjoy! *If you’re cooking your Root Vegetable Chili with Orange and Cilantro on your stove top, follow these directions: In a stock pot, add the olive oil, onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the cumin, coriander, and chili powder and cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.

Add the sweet potato, carrots, broth, diced tomatoes with their juice. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and Simmer for 20 Minutes.

Add the pinto beans, orange juice, paprika, and cilantro.

Adjust flavor with salt and pepper.

Enjoy!

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

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

Our Town Magazine

Our Town Magazine

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

Page 19

“My husband Michael and I have been clients since 2001. The service and attention we receive is always extremely professional and personal. The staff is the best and I feel that my relationship with The Village Vets is an extension of my family. I trust the entire team with one of the most precious beings in my life - my baby, my pet!”

Yolanda and Digby Vickers

Dr. Françoise Tyler

Dr. Carrie McColgan

Dr. Amanda Irish

Mention this ad for

20% OFF

Pet’s Dental Cleaning

In honor of Pet Dental Health Month. 20% discount on one(1) dental cleaning per pet. Does not include any recommended extractions or medications. Additional fees may apply. Coupon need not be presented for discount. Terms subject to change without notice at practice discretion.

By appointment only Expires 04-30-12

7 Days a Week!

Serving Gwinnett and Dekalb Counties

Dr. Deva Prather

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Hours: Mon-Fri 7am to 7pm, Sat 8am-2pm, Sun 12-4pm

www.TheVillageVets.com

770-717-1650 1227 Rockbridge Road in Stone Mountain (Near the Kroger Shopping Center)