Up Close with Parris and Associates, see story on page 5.
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On the Cover: For the Love of Rheumatology: Getting to Know Parris and Associates
By Kristen Eleveld
It’s always ideal to love what you do—and, as anyone who has ever been a patient will know, it’s even more ideal to be cared for by those who love their field more than almost anything. And that is exactly the level of care you can expect from Parris and Associates Rheumatology, led by Dr. Glenn Parris.
Dr. Parris fell in love with the field of rheumatology while he was still a medical student.
“I learned that you can make such a difference in someone’s life in this practice,” said Dr. Parris. “Diseases that were once fatal can now be effectively treated.”
With a desire to help patients in need of guidance and support through their illness, Dr. Parris eventually opened his own practice in Gwinnett. He firmly believes that great medical care is only part of the equation when it comes to treating patients. He also wants to develop a rapport and high level of empathy with them, and to let his patients know he is truly invested in helping them.
“When I interview a new employee, I look for authenticity, empathy, someone who can develop a rapport with patients,” said Dr. Parris. “If you don’t have that, you aren’t in the right business with me.”
Dr. Parris also believes in the power of good communication. Whether that be physical contact, like a hand on a patient’s shoulder, offering a hug to someone who is struggling emotionally, or getting a full history from a patient or an update on their kids’ lives, Dr. Parris knows it all matters and makes a difference.
“There have been so many times where I ask a patient ‘How are you doing?’ and they tell me they’re fine. But with just a look in their eyes, I can tell they are not,” said Dr. Parris. “Often, I find that intimate communication will allow a patient to truly open up to me. Sometimes it’s not about disease, it’s not about the medicines. It’s about personal things near and dear to their hearts. It’s a human connection and it all matters.”
As many rheumatologists and patients will attest, it can be difficult to figure out what type of illness they’re dealing with and how best to treat it. For Dr. Parris and his team, that mystery is one of the things that drives them to give
100% at work each day.
“I want my patients to tell me their story,” said Dr. Parris of how he approaches the process of identifying a new patient’s illness. “I love what I do and I love that I have a group that shares my passion in taking care of patients and ferreting out mysteries. All of our staff, from the medical assistants to our providers, have a level of curiosity that makes them want to help each patient identify their next steps.”
It’s also important to note that at Parris and Associates you will literally find all the care you need in one place. Lab work, x-rays, bone density tests, even medications—it’s all right there on site, which means you have one less stop to make as you work to continue your treatment.
When Dr. Parris is not treating patients and solving medical mysteries, he is writing mysteries instead. With a passion for storytelling and a love for communication, Dr. Parris has authored several books, ranging from sci-fi and fantasy to medical-related mysteries.
Working through your autoimmune disease isn’t something most people look forward to. But with Dr. Parris and his team, you can rest assured that they will partner with you for as long as it takes to help you be your healthiest self. More information at https://parrisandassociates.org/,
Town
Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine — An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com
Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/NE DeKalb area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.
Entire contents copyright 2025 by Our Town Gwinnett Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.
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Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com
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Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com
Cover
IN THIS ISSUE
5 On the Cover: For the Love of Rheumatology: Getting to Know Parris and Associates 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 8 Community Event: Run the Reagan 8 Quiet…A Word for Your Day 9 One Man’s Opinion: Pardon Me, Sirs 10 One on One: Kickboxing with Lisa 10 Travel Tales: Mysterious Morocco 11 Play-it-Safe Tips to Protect Young Athletes’ Feet and Ankles 11 Meet Jake McGuire: Young Lilburn Golfer Ranks in the Top 20 12 Getting to Know ProMotion Physical Therapy & The Wellness Studio
13 Evolution of Smartphone Damage: From Drips to Drops
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
Happy February to you! I’m excited as we roll out the February 2025 edition of the publication. So, buckle up for a ride through our community’s heart and soul, amplified across printed pages, digital platforms, and the buzzing world of social media.
As you hold this month’s publication in your hands, remember it’s not just a magazine; it’s a connection hub. The printed pages tell stories, share experiences, and highlight dreams – creating a tangible bond that unites us all. But we’re not stopping there. Our digital edition takes the experience to another level, ensuring everyone, everywhere, can tap into the pulse of Our Town.
Please follow us on our various platforms for doses of community love, family vibes, and positive energy. You can also join our private Our Town Community Group on Facebook. It’s not just about reading – it’s about engaging, sharing, and being part of the larger conversation that defines our community. Whether you’re flipping through the printed magazine at the kitchen table, scrolling through the digital edition on your tablet, or engaging with us on social media from your smartphone, we’re there with you, fostering strong family bonds in every corner of our community.
Positivity is contagious, and we continue to spread it everywhere we can. Through print, digital, social, private groups, e-newsletters, podcasts, TV shows, and more, we’re showcasing the resilience, optimism, and acts of kindness that define our community. It’s not just about consuming content; it’s about becoming part of a movement that uplifts and inspires.
We have a great community, and again, thank you all for your support. Also, please support all our fantastic business partners. They are simply the best. I know each owner, and they all get my highest endorsement. Also, and as always, thanks for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!
Community Event: Run the Reagan
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The annual Run the Reagan race is celebrating its 30th anniversary, and we invite you to Put Your Heart into It and join us on February 22, 2025. As Gwinnett’s Premier Road Race, Run the Reagan has become an annual event for runners and families to enjoy a day of fun, fitness, and community engagement.
The race features a Half Marathon, 10K (timed and untimed), 5K (timed and untimed), and a one-mile fun run. All registered participants receive a Race Number and T-shirt. Medals are awarded to all Half-Marathon finishers and to each of the top three runners by age category in the 10K and 5K timed races. Additionally, we offer a family fun zone, featuring vendors, music, games, and more!
Proceeds from the event go directly to support three great local charities: The Brookwood Schools Foundation, The South Gwinnett Cluster Foundation, and the Lilburn Cooperative Ministry. Each of these organizations works to pro-
Continued on page 14
Quiet…A Word for Your Day
By Jane Bishop
In certain public venues, it becomes necessary to utter, “Quiet, please.” Examples are tennis matches, golf tournaments, movie theaters, and libraries. For some, it is a challenge to be quiet for a few seconds or minutes. Our lives are filled with noise, and we have mistaken that as a necessity for living. Quiet may be uncomfortable for many because it is out of the “norm.”
Matthew Mikkelsen is Executive Director of Quiet Parks International, a non-profit organization that is on a mission “to save quiet for the benefit of all life” (www.quietparks.org). During an interview on a national news show in November of 2023, he stated that Quiet Parks International estimates 90% of children won’t experience natural quiet in their lifetime. According to Mikkelson, for a space to qualify as a natural quiet place, it must have a “dependable noise-free interval of fifteen minutes or more.” Sit with that for a quiet moment.
Quiet space can be sacred and can allow us to hold a space for thoughts/emotions that we cannot readily verbalize. Quiet space can be calming and freeing, and create brain space to move forward. Consider your environment while reading this article. Is it quiet or filled with noise? Do you know that 97% of the U.S. population is exposed to noise from aviation and highways, so quiet is nearly
Continued on page 14
One Man’s Opinion: Pardon Me, Sirs
By Bill Crane
I will have to look to others to be the judge of my reality here, but I try to be a well-mannered, Southern gentleman, admittedly more than a bit old school in my day-to-day life and dealings with others. As a general rule, I try to live by the Golden Rule.
But let’s say, for the sake of conversation, that I didn’t pay income taxes for a couple of years, while my income exceeded a few million dollars each of those years. Let’s assume in this hypothetical that I am also a drug addict who left the mother of my children and wife to seduce and marry my brother’s widow and that I traded on influence and family connections most of my life, becoming a felon and carrying unregistered firearms illegally. I am thinking that if I did all this and dropped by the White House, I would no longer be summering at the family beach house in Rehoboth.
Conversely, if I were to express my free speech rights by smashing windows, clubbing the head of some of New York’s finest, and defecating in the lobby of Trump Tower in New York or even the front lobby at Mar-a-Lago, I would expect to be then spending my winters and summers in a Florida state prison. With neither set of offenses, and these are not equivalent, of the family, political allies, and others pardoned on the last day of Joe Biden’s Presidency, or the near blanket commutations of sentencing of between 1,200-1,300 January 6, 2021 protestors at our U.S. Capitol, both pardoners are guilty, at the very least, of poor judgment.
Yes, I understand concerns for Dr. Anthony Fauci, former Congresswoman Liz Cheney, and some of Donald Trump’s more vocal opponents. Has anyone done a wellness check this week on Mike Pence? But does President Joe Biden think he will be the last Democrat to win the White House? Does the now-former president believe that his pardons are all that stands between his family and federal trials or prison sentences?
Let’s set aside, just for a moment, the repeated public promises and statements that Joe Biden would NOT pardon Hunter Biden, without even touching the 11th-hour pardon of nearly his entire family, strangely and selectively back to the year 2014. Huh. Joe Biden was Vice President Biden at that time.
And to President Trump, you won the election by a healthy Electoral College margin, carrying all seven battleground states. The American people have placed their faith in you, and the job you again now hold is among the most challenging in the world.
Did you really think it wise to START this job with the conflicting signals of declaring a National State of Emergency at our southern border and commuting the sentence of the leader of the Proud Boys, currently serving a twenty-twoyear sentence for his role in planning and executing the attacks on our nation’s
Capitol, and the peaceful transition of power via the certification of the votes of the Electoral College?
We all know that those of us who are regular folks without political connections or who place our lives on the line after a disappointing political contest loss would NOT be able to expect to have our slates wiped clean for much lesser offenses. And yet, we will still pay parking and speeding tickets, drive the speed limit more often than not, and hopefully be good to our neighbors, despite examples from back-to-back leaders of the highest office in the land demonstrating that those rules do not necessarily apply for THEM.
Thankfully, there ARE limits to the power and reach of presidential pardons, commutations, and clemency. They cannot overturn state court criminal convictions or sentencing, nor waive civil case judgments. They cannot give pardons beyond the time of their term in office, other than blanket pardons for crimes not yet charged. Do innocent people really NEED to be pardoned? Do we need to re-scope or limit these powers to pardon?
I would also look out for my family, children, and friends. Politics has become, particularly at the national level, a blood sport of sorts. But if we want that to change, we need to select leaders who lead by example or act as servant
Continued on page 12
One on One: Kickboxing with Lisa
By Victoria R. Crosby
Lisa Boggs, a seasoned kickboxing coach with a black belt in karate and a background in psychology, is dedicated to empowering individuals through personal development, physical fitness, and self-defense education. Her comprehensive approach combines elements of kickboxing, cardio, core, strength, stretching, and personal safety training, recognizing the holistic importance of mental and physical well-being.
Offering private, one on one, and groups classes, family and home school options, Lisa tailors her instruction to meet diverse needs. She also provides specialized support for post-partum and menopausal women, recognizing the unique challenges and benefits of physical activity during these life changes.
Lisa discovered her passion for martial arts while seeking an active and fun way to bond with her young children. What started as a family shared activity evolved into a personal journey that would change her life.
“Exercising releases endorphins which have mood lifting and stress reducing effects,” Lisa said. “Even a short burst of activity can leave you feeling more positive and energized.”
Lisa earned her Black Belt at Dynamic Karate USA and eventually became an instructor there. When the owners sold the studio and moved out of state, Lisa decided to follow her passion for martial arts and offered classes in kickboxing in her home studio to other young mothers. Recognizing the unique challenges that many mothers face, Lisa created a space where women can bring their children if necessary and could prioritize their health and safety without the distractions or pressures of a traditional gym.
She also highlights the importance of stretching for improved flexibility, reduced muscle soreness, injury prevention, faster recovery, better circulation, and enhanced relaxation and posture. Lisa’s inclusive approach fosters a wel-
coming environment where all individuals can feel safe, strong, and valued. She ensures that everyone, regardless of their background or abilities, can benefit from her classes and feel resilient and empowered.
Beyond fitness Lisa is deeply committed to empowering people through
Continued on page 14
Travel Tales: Mysterious Morocco
By Pam Walker
With all the countries I have visited in the world, I have never been to Morocco. For one reason or another, a different trip or another country always appealed to me more. I had been close by in Spain and Gibraltar, and ferries to and from Morocco were plentiful. Still, I never had time to detour across the Mediterranean to actually stay in that country.
The Kingdom of Morocco has always fascinated me, and when I finally got there, I could not believe the opulence and richness of the culture. Whether in Marrakesh or Rabat, you cannot escape Morocco’s colors, smells, and exotic nature.
Located at the top of Africa, Morocco is a mix of cultures from around the world. Its cities, with winding streets, huge medinas, and souks filled with treasure from everywhere, are something to see. Hold on to your wallets, as there is so much to see and buy. The rug merchants are famous for exporting lovely carpets around the world.
The mosques are the most fascinating part of Morocco. The main religion is Islam, and the largest mosque in Africa is in Casablanca. Non-Muslims generally can’t enter, but they can look at the amazing architecture from the outside, with its gardens and fountains. You can hear the “call to prayer” five times daily, a beautiful reminder of where you are.
Best of all, there are amazing hotels and riads in each city. Morocco is on the edge of the Saharan Desert, one of the driest places on earth. But you would never know it in these amazing buildings filled with trees, flowers, fountains, and swimming pools. Most hotels emanate the mysterious vibes of Morocco. Many are built with solid outer walls, with the inside almost like a royal palace with imported surroundings and fabulous restaurants and restful places to shelter you from the thousands of people outside. Even in the Atlas Mountains (the highest mountain in Africa), fabulous hotels have amazing views and offer opportunities to hike or visit Berber villages nearby.
I don’t know why I waited so long to visit! If you get a chance to go, take advantage and visit. It will surprise you, I am sure!
Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel adviser. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com.
Play-it-Safe Tips to Protect Young Athletes’ Feet and Ankles
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
In today’s competitive youth sports landscape, injuries are common, and when they do occur, young athletes are often pressured to play through the pain.
“The spring season is prime time for foot and ankle injuries from sports like soccer, football, and cross country,” says Richard Baker, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow Member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).
“Fortunately, there are many steps parents, coaches, and young athletes can take to prevent injuries from occurring in the first place and to discourage kids from playing through pain.”
Here are eight play-it-safe tips from the foot and ankle surgeon members of ACFAS to help prevent injuries and treat them properly when they occur.
1. Get a pre-season checkup. A pre-season medical evaluation can help identify whether your child could benefit from using an orthotic or wearing a supportive ankle brace while playing. This is especially important for those with previous sprains and injuries.
2. Start the season with new shoes. Old shoes can wear down and become uneven, causing the ankle to tilt. And, as your child’s feet may have grown between seasons, their old shoes may not fit. The smart move is to replace athletic shoes at the start of each season. While children under 10 should wear all-purpose sports shoes, older youth athletes should wear sport-specific footwear.
3. Train for the season. Your child’s feet and ankles must be accustomed to the level of activity required for the sport. Adequate conditioning in the off-season can help maintain a player’s ability to meet these demands, reducing their risk of injury and improving their performance during the season.
4. Encourage warmup exercises. Calf stretches, and light jogging before competition helps warm up ligaments and blood vessels, reducing injury risk.
5. Check fields for dips, divots, and holes. Ninety percent of ankle sprains are due to poor playing conditions. That’s why some surgeons recommend walking the field, especially in non-professional settings like public parks, looking for spots that could catch a player’s foot. Alert coaching officials to any irregularities.
6. Watch their technique. A difference in how your child moves is often
Continued on page 14
Meet Jake McGuire: Young Lilburn Golfer Ranks in the Top 20
By Tana Poncsak
At eight years old, Jake McGuire knows golf—and he should. He’s been swinging a club since he was a toddler and is currently ranked 14th in the world. Jake recently played in the U.S. Kids World Championship in Pinehurst, NC., and says he’s disappointed that he didn’t come out on top.
“The greens were fast,” Jake says. “They make it like that. They cut the grass super low.”
Even so, he did well enough to qualify to return and play in next year’s tournament.
In the meantime, Jake started third grade this year at Parkview Christian School in Lilburn. Up until this year, his school days have been half days, leaving him plenty of time to practice his game. But third grade includes a combination of short and long days of school, and with homework, he wasn’t quite sure how he’d manage his time. Jake says if he doesn’t get all his practicing in during the week, it means getting in some practice time on the weekends.
Jake’s father, Sean McGuire, said that golf is all about touch and feel.
“He knows he needs to put his hands on the club and just touch the ball every day,” Sean says. “It doesn’t have to be a lot.”
When they can’t make it to a golf course for practice, Jake is well-equipped to get in some practicing at home with his own driving range and putting green in his backyard.
Jake’s interest in golf came at an early age. When Jake’s older brother, Brian, played the game, Jake took an interest, too. Jake was one year old at the time. With a driver cut down to his size, Jake started swinging, and he hasn’t stopped. With coaching from a three-time All-American, former Clemson University player, and Georgia PGA player Oswald Drawdy, Jake has managed to play in some of the biggest tournaments and best venues and resorts around the country, all while collecting numerous medals, trophies, and other accolades along the way. Last spring, Jake got the opportunity to attend a 2024 Masters Tournament practice round, where he met pro golfers and gained notoriety in the golfing community. And he even received swag and gear from some of the top golf vendors.
Jake plays on the same courses where the pros play, but the yardage is a bit shorter. For pros, it’s about 7,000 yards, and for Jake and other youth golfers, it’s about 3,500 yards. So interestingly enough, when a pro tees off and Jake tees
Continued on page 15
Getting to Know ProMotion Physical Therapy & The Wellness Studio
By Kristen Eleveld
“Living your best life” is something we all strive to do – and the people at ProMotion Physical Therapy & The Wellness Studio are working to help the Gwinnett community meet those goals.
With a mission to “nurture an atmosphere of camaraderie, encouragement and motivation,” ProMotion Physical Therapy and The Wellness Studio are embracing the idea that taking care of your body happens in many areas of life. That’s why they offer everything from physical therapy to fitness classes to nutrition advice from a registered dietitian.
“Injuries and illnesses frequently limit our ability to engage in the many activities that bring quality and meaning to our lives,” said physical therapist Michael Sullivan. “We recognize that the path to a more healthy life involves attention to the physical, mental, and social components of wellness.”
As a teenager, Michael was in a car accident that left him wondering if he would ever have the ability to walk again. His own physical therapist encouraged him to work hard, saying the path would be difficult, but that it could be possible to regain Michael’s level of function before the accident. Five months later, Michael returned to the field as a competitive soccer player. Now, he
wants to share that experience and his own expertise with others to allow them to overcome the obstacles in their own lives.
“The gifts that my physical therapist bestowed upon me changed the direction of my life,” said Michael. “I decided that I would like to help others as he helped me.”
With providers like Michael on staff, it’s no wonder that ProMotion PT and The Wellness Studio are so dedicated to helping their community find true wellness. And while the physical work is a major part of the process, Michael and the rest of the staff know that dealing with the physical injuries or struggles is only part of the picture.
“Ultimately, I see myself as an educator,” Michael said. “I love helping people to understand the nature of their injury and what they can do to create the conditions under which healing becomes possible. Recognizing that healing comes from within, I believe we all have incredible potential to heal but don’t necessarily know how to unlock our abilities. Helping to guide people through this process brings me great joy.”
In addition to a team that cares deeply for the whole-body wellness of their patients, the combined expertise at ProMotion PT and The Wellness Studio makes it shine bright in its field. With a multi-disciplinary team that includes physical therapists, massage therapists, fitness trainers, and a registered dietician, these experts are able to provide a range of services to promote wellness. They are also dedicated to giving each patient the one-o,n-one time needed to fully address their concerns and goals.
“We tailor treatment to address specific individual goals and help people get back to doing what they want to do,” said Michael. “Ultimately our goal is to help people in our community to live happier and healthier lives.”
If you think you might benefit from one (or more) of the many services offered by ProMotion Physical Therapy and The Wellness Studio, reach out to them today! You can take your first step to living your best life by asking the experts how it’s done.
More information at http://www.promotionpt.com/, https://thewellnessstudio. com/
One Man’s Opinion
Continued from page 9
leaders, not those who so clearly will take care of themselves and their First family before the rest of the nation.
Pardon me, sirs... I think not.
Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
Evolution of Smartphone Damage: From Drips to Drops
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
As smartphones have transformed from simple communication devices to essential tools for navigation, entertainment, productivity, and much more, so too have their vulnerabilities— and the consequences of damage have become more severe. Now central to how we work, connect, and play, a broken smartphone can significantly disrupt daily life.
For over twelve years, Allstate Protection Plans has conducted its well-known Breakability Test where robots drop, bend, dunk, and fold the latest smartphones to assess their durability. These tests have uncovered evolving risks and have provided valuable insights into each generation’s unique vulnerabilities.
Liquid
Damage: From Major Risk to Minor Worry
Without waterproofing technology, even a minor spill or accidental drop in water could wreak havoc on a phone’s internal components. In a 2012 survey, liquid damage accounted for 18% of smartphone damage. In 2014, the iPhone 6 struggled after being dunked for 10 seconds in less than a foot of water. However, five years later, in 2019, the iPhone 11 remained functional after being submerged by Allstate Protection Plans’ DunkBot for 30 minutes in 5 feet of water. Thanks to advancements like IP68 ratings and waterproof casings, modern smartphones, such as the latest Apple iPhone and Samsung Galaxy, can be exposed to water for extended periods without harm.
The Foldable Phone: A Form Factor Comeback
While foldable phones first entered the market as early as 2008 with Nokia’s “Morph” concept, it wasn’t until 2019 that foldable devices made a proper resurgence. Despite initial skepticism, foldable phones are proving to be surprisingly durable. Devices like the Samsung Galaxy Fold can endure up to 200,000 folds, or roughly three years of regular use, with only minor issues like pixel damage or hinge wear. This represents a significant engineering leap, pushing the boundaries of what a smartphone can be.
Bendgate: A Bending Reality for Slim Phones
In 2015, Apple’s iPhone 6 Plus made headlines for its susceptibility to bending under pressure, particularly when placed in pockets. This was confirmed when the Allstate Protection Plans BendBot revealed that the Samsung Galaxy Edge cracked under the same pressure as the iPhone. “Bendgate” sparked widespread concerns over the durability of thin smartphone designs, leading to manufacturers seeking ways to strengthen designs.
The Hardware Evolution: Tougher, But Not Indestructible Manufacturers now employ toughened materials like Gorilla Glass, aluminum, and even ceramic to withstand drops and scratches. Yet, despite these advances, modern smartphones are far from unbreakable. In recent drop tests,
even flagship devices like the Samsung S24 Ultra with its titanium frame and Corning Gorilla Armor shattered after six-foot falls. Similarly, the iPhone 16, despite its aluminum sides and ceramic shield, sustained cracked screens and scuffed corners when dropped.
Larger Phones, Larger Problems
Early smartphones typically featured screens around 4 inches. In response to consumer demand, today’s models, such as Samsung’s Galaxy line, boast displays as large as 6.8 inches. While bigger screens offer enhanced viewing experiences, holding and using larger phones with one hand has increased accidental drops. A survey by Allstate Protection Plans found that 78% of users have dropped their devices while using them with one hand. The question remains whether the trade-off between screen size and ease of use is worth the risk.
Tougher, But Still Vulnerable
Smartphone durability has made impressive strides, yet no manufacturer has designed a device impervious to the Allstate Protection Plans DropBot—or the unforgiving impact of a sidewalk. Given their Continued on page 15
vide educational and wellness resources within the local community. We also support dozens of local schools by sharing some of the race revenue generated from designated race registrations. When registering, please consider creating or joining an existing team to earn money directly for a school or charity. You can either register online, or on-site the morning of the race.
Not a runner? Consider volunteering. It truly takes a community to make this event a success, and we are always in need of folks who love to help. All volunteers will receive a T-shirt as a special thank you!
We hope to see you on February 22nd, 2025 as we continue the tradition of Gwinnett’s Premiere Road Race, celebrating 30 years!
More information at https://runthereagan.net/
Quiet…A Word for Your Day
Continued from page 8
extinct (Source: Bureau of Transportation Statistics, United States Department of Transportation)? We are experiencing what Robert Koch, 1905 Nobel Prize Winning Bacteriologist, predicted: “The day will come when man will have to fight noise as inexorably as cholera and the plague.”
When was the last time you allowed yourself to step out of the noise of life’s traffic and simply be? What would you experience if you did? How would that help center you for the day? What is stopping you? Schedule? Work? Family? Permission? Excuses? What experiences are getting lost in the noise of your world?
I woke up early one morning to – quiet. No wind, no school buses, no birds in the woods. In the quietness of my home, the only sound was the pendulum swing of a clock. It was refreshing. It was dark so I could not enjoy the scenery of the woods, only of simply being. My mind could wander, or not. My senses could engage, or not. The enjoyment factor was remarkably high on the pleasing scale. In the quiet of the morning, I could hold space for my thoughts without the noise of the world! And it fueled me for my day.
Be courageous. Step out of the noise zone and into your quiet zone for fifteen minutes. It is a practice that will refresh your brain and reinforce your self-leadership.
More information at www.janebishoplive.com.
Play-it-Safe Tips
Continued from page 11
a tell-tale sign that something is wrong. Playing with pain is never a winning strategy, so encourage kids to be honest about pain or discomfort.
7. Be mindful of other physical activities. Your child doesn’t need to be involved in a formalized athletic program to be vulnerable to sports-related injuries. Foot and ankle surgeons warn of common injuries like plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, fractures, and Achilles tendonitis due to repetitive, forceful motions, which can occur in activities such as skateboarding. When skateboarding or engaging in other non-formal activities, always wear protective gear, including supportive shoes, and seek treatment for pain or injury.
8. Remember RICE. Often, an injured foot or ankle can be treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation. Those with foot or ankle pain should take a break from playing and allow time for recovery. If pain persists, something more serious, such as cartilage injuries or broken bones in the foot, may be happening. Consult a foot and ankle surgeon for a complete evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment plan. The sooner rehabilitation starts, the sooner your child can safely return to the game. (StatePoint)
Kickboxing with Lisa
Continued from page 10
self-defense. As a petite woman, less than five feet tall, she has firsthand experience of dangerous situations where she felt unsafe. Her own journey and experiences have instilled in her a desire to help others develop the skills and mindset necessary to protect themselves and build confidence and self-esteem.
In addition to her role as kickboxing coach, Lisa actively contributes to the community. She serves as a board member at the Friendship Forest Academy, co-founded by her kickboxing alumnae, Jennifer Hickey, and Amanda Green, and has volunteered as a kickboxing instructor and substitute teacher at the school for neurodivergent students.
Lisa operates a home-based kickboxing studio in the Mountain Park neighborhood of Lilburn.
You can find more info on her on Facebook at Kickboxing with Lisa, on Instagram at kickboxing_ with_ lisa, and on her Google business page at Kickboxing with Lisa.
PLEASE JOIN US AT OUR UPCOMING
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January 16th — March 27th
Time: 10:30am - 12:00pm
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Time: 7:00pm - 8:30pm
Location: Zoom
Jake McGuire
off, their balls are likely similar in distance from the hole, and they both have a similar second approach shot.
But perhaps it’s Jake’s swing that’s his best asset when it comes to the game. At Jake’s age, he has a swing speed of about 72 mph, which is generally the swing speed of a twelve year old. Jake’s swing has been analyzed via computer software designed by his coach, and there are noted similarities to Jake’s body motions and foot placement to golfing greats like Tiger Woods and Ben Hogan.
“It’s a natural thing,” Sean says. “There are fundamental skills that have to be done to keep your swing on a certain plane and at a certain angle, and there’s so much science behind the swing. Jake is young enough to where he’s coachable and his body can get in positions, and muscle memory can have a lasting imprint on him.”
Jake’s biggest challenge when playing in tournaments comes when he feels he’s losing his focus and he gets a bit distracted. When that happens, he says he uses affirmations to get back in the game. One of the best affirmations that helps him get back on track is “The next shot is the best shot.” And based on his
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game, it seems to work for him.
As for his future, Jake has his sights set on playing golf in college and then it’s possibly on to the PGA. But for now, Sean says they celebrate the special moments.
“Anytime we have a special moment [in a game] we keep the ball, and we date it,” Sean says. “And we have a wall full of golf balls.”
More information on Instagram at @jakeknowsgolf.
Smartphone Damage
Continued from page 13
vital role in our lives and the high repair costs for the latest models, protecting these valuable devices is essential. Cases and screen protectors are must-haves, and a protection plan can be a real money-saver when accidents inevitably happen.
While smartphone technology has been ever-evolving for the past three decades, one thing remains unchanged: the importance of protecting your device and your investment. (StatePoint).
MAXIMIZE INSURANCE COVERAGE
A thorough inspection ensures all damage is documented, making it easier to file successful insurance claims.
Proper documentation increases the likelihood of getting full coverage for repairs.
