APRIL 2016: Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Magazine

The Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Community and Family Magazine

Our Town April 2016

Lawrenceville l Snellville l Lilburn l Stone Mountain

Meet Tori and Eric Soles of In the Mow (ITM) Landscape Managment.

7 Chick-Fil-A Snellville 78 and the Community: Meet Colby Cameron 13 Getting Schooled with Arcado Elementary: Expert Problem Solvers 15 Making a Difference in Lives: One on One with Juan Thompson 17 The NETT Church: Encourages Diversity and Welcomes All

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

PAID

PRSRT PAID U.S. POSTAGE

We specialize in “I FEEL LIKE I’M FALLING APART!” Dr. Gravante treats patients with: l Fatigue l Weight Loss l Headaches l Hormone Issues l Back Pain l Neck Pain l Joint Pain/Inflammation l Abdominal Pain l Seasonal Allergies

Let us help put you back together!

Lorraine Gravante, D.C. The Center for Natural Healing and Weight Loss 2176 Oak Road Suite D Snellville, GA 30078 www.drgravante.com

678.990.9400 www.drgravante.com

Are you ready to feel better and get healthy?

Call Dr. Gravante today!

Please call for more information about our program

678.990.9400

These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by Dr. Gravante is not PAGEas2a primary therapy for For information on becoming an advertising partner or call 678-825-2049 Our Town intended any disease.

Prior to starting any diet, nutrition or exercise program, you visit shouldOurTownGwinnett.com consult with your medical physician.

400

SNELLVILLE

285

2

6

78

DECATUR

3 LITHONIA

Sandea Greene-Harris, M.D.

Atlanta Neurosurgical Assoc.

STOCKBRIDGE, NORTH DECATUR, & HILLANDALE LOCATIONS ONLY

4 COVINGTON 85 75 675

5 NEWNAN

1 STOCKBRIDGE

4 COVINGTON

1035 SOUTHCREST DRIVE SUITE 250 STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281

1 STOCKBRIDGE

Richard Gullick, M.D. Atlanta Neurosurgical Assoc.

Michael Hartman, M.D. Murray Robinson, M.D. Atlanta Neurosurgical Assoc.

Atlanta Neurosurgical Assoc.

Where doctor meets neighbor

2 NORTH DECATUR

4181 HOSPITAL DRIVE SUITE 303 COVINGTON, GA 30014

5 NEWNAN

2675 N. DECATUR ROAD SUITE 110 DECATUR, GA 30033

3 HILLANDALE

1755 HIGHWAY 34 E SUITE 3400 NEWNAN, GA 30265

6 SNELLVILLE

5910 HILLANDALE DRIVE SUITE 205 LITHONIA, GA 30058

1600 MEDICAL WAY SUITE 250 SNELLVILLE, GA 30078

404.596.4794 www.atlantaneurosurgicalassociates.com

Please welcome Sandea Greene-Harris to DeKalb Medical Physicians Group Atlanta Neurosurgical Associates.

Dr. Greene-Harris is a fellow of the American College of Neurological Surgeons and a member of Women in Neurosurgery and American Association of Neurological Surgeons. She received her undergraduate and medical degree from Tulane University, with interest in minimally invasive approaches to both brain and spine surgery.

Dr. Greene-Harris is accompanied by fellow board-certified neurological surgeons Dr. Richard Gullick, Dr. Michael Hartman, and Dr. Murray Robinson. With the expansion to six office locations and four full-time physicians, patients can be seen and treated where it is most convenient for them. Services include diagnosis and treatment for the spine, brain, peripheral nerve, and chronic pain ailments - all with physician access and training to the least invasive spine and brain therapies.

www.dmpg.org 404.501.MYDR

TO FIND A PHYSICIAN IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD

Our physicians groups are in your neighborhood to provide you a personal healthcare experience. Call today to find a physician near you or to schedule an appointment.

Our Town

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 3

Maurice Jové M.D. Nathan A. Jové M.D. Jeff A. Traub M.D. Decatur

Snellville

Loganville

2801 N. Decatur Rd. Suite 200, Decatur, GA. 30033

2400 Wisteria Dr, Suite A Snellville, GA. 30078

4743 Atlanta Highway, Suite 100, Loganville, GA. 30052

404-296-5005

770-985-9330

770-564-3393

We are the team physicians for the Archer, Parkview, Grayson, Collins Hill, Loganville, and Walnut Grove communities along with Loganville Christian School, various Dekalb County Schools and now covering Atlanta Rhinos Professional Rugby League.

Fracture Care Sports Medicine Foot and Ankle Surgery Common conditions we treat: u Arthritis u Carpel Tunnel u Ankle Sprains

Hip and Knee Replacement Shoulder and Elbow Surgery Shoulder Replacement Minimally Invasive Techniques Hand Surgery Arthroscopic Surgery u Bunions u Rotator Cuff Tears u ACL Tears

u Muscle and Tendon Tears u Broken Ankles u Broken Wrists

TO SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT CALL THE OFFICE NEAREST YOU.

PAGE 4

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

On the Cover: The Soles Continually Seek Ways to Improve their ITM Landscaping Services

By Heidi Campbell Tori and Eric Soles, the owners of In the Mow (ITM) Landscape Managment, met while they were students at Brookwood High School. Years later, after both graduated from college, they married. Tori, an MBA, worked for the Atlanta Ballet in Arts Management, and Eric worked in marketing for Enterprise Car Rental. By 2006, Eric knew that he was ready to do something different. Tori and Eric, along with Eric’s father, Eddie, decided to take a chance and change the course of their lives. “I was looking to own my own company. I wanted fate in my own hands.

I wanted to have control of where things went, and I went into this thinking it would be easy,” admits Eric.

The couple quickly realized that owning their own business required hard work and dedication. They’ve grown the business steadily, now employing two maintenance crews and one installation crew, but they worked seven days a week to make it through some weak economic times.

“We felt that if we set it up right and persevered, we would be okay,” says Tori, who now works full time for ITM to handle the bookkeeping and HR side of the business.

Perhaps the hardest times for this family-owned business struck last year, when Eric was diagnosed with cancer. It was during this time that Tori came on board full time, and Eddie, Eric’s father, came back from retirement to help out. “It was hard,” shares Eric. “I had to rely on great friends and family. In this business, it’s hard to be sick because no one is going to pay you to ‘not work.’ Getting through the cancer has given me a new lease on how we will move our business forward.”

Now that he is back to work full time, Eric feels that he is even better able to run his company.

“Going through this in my 30s has given me perspective, and made me more empathetic toward others,” he explains. “Work is not a burden to me these days, it’s a privilege. I get to mix art with business. I get to work outside every day and not in a cubicle!”

The “art” that Eric mentions makes up half of their business, and includes the amazing installation projects that they do to transform lawns with landscape renovation, yard and flower bed designs, outdoor lighting, patios, and waterfalls. Aside from regular commercial and residential

Keeping Your Best Interest at Heart!

Coots & Company - Your Neighbor Your Realtor

lawn maintenance, their business also helps people solve problems as they are able to fix irrigation issues, maintain drainage and erosion control, repair sinkholes, and build retaining walls. Their prices are consistent with other companies, with lawn services starting at $200 a month.

ITM is committed to putting customer service above all else. In 2012, they welcomed their Operations Manager, James Bolich, who is instrumental in sales, bids, routing, crew management, and overall operations. As a team, ITM schedules appointments to ensure their complete understanding of their clients’ needs, they work within budgets, they provide estimates, and they strive to bestow the best customer service in the industry. “We get lots of calls to ‘fix’ the work of other companies,” shares Eric. “We put everything into our clients, so even though another company may come in $5.00 cheaper, all products are not equal. Service is what we do!”

ITM utilizes a unique business model for their employees. Pay is based on commission which ensures that their crews are highly motivated to keep the customers happy. It also allows the crews to seek out new clients in order to raise their paychecks. The company continually seeks new ways to recognize the outstanding work of their employees, and plans to add retirement benefits and possible summertime bonuses. “I have come to understand my role as a business owner,” explains Eric, “as part coach, part business owner, part motivator. I want to do well by my clients and my employees. We are a company with heart behind it.”

The company plans to expand their business in both Gwinnett and Walton counties, as well as into the North Decatur and Tucker areas and beyond for installation projects. They approach each year with the goal of improving their business and making each year a little better than the last. As ITM approaches its tenth anniversary, the Soles are thrilled with the lives they’ve created.

With two boys, ages six and nine, Tori says, “I enjoy helping our clients and taking on the challenges of a competitive market. ITM landscaping has really met our needs as a family. I’m grateful to be able to be a mom, and work our business.”

More information at www.itmlandscape.com

American Heritage Animal Hospital

Top Reasons To Call Coots & Company Today • Ranked by GA MLS as #4 of 5993 agents in Gwinnett county for closed volume • Our listings sold on average in 43 days for 94.52% of list price • We sold 93% of our listings in 2015 • Voted Best of Gwinnett 2015 • Nationally recognized by REAL Trends in “America’s Best Rest Estate Agents” • Locally recognized by Atlanta Magazine’s “Best Atlanta Agents” • Four Agents - One Team - One Goal 100% Customer Satisfaction!

u $5 nail trims every u 1/2 price exam for new clients Wednesday (by appointment ONLY).

Kathy Coots 770.654.8972 R E A LT O R ®

cell

www.KathyCoots.com

Each Keller Williams office is independently owned and operated.

Equal Housing Opportunity

3475 Stone Mountain Hwy Snellville, GA 30078

770-972-7026

Our Town

Board 5 nights get the 6th night

FREE

Call for details.

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 5

Our Town

Gym: 678-671-3539 Train with Gym: 678-671-3539 Gym: 678-671-3539 Glenn: 678-458-7320 American Ninja Glenn: 678-458-7320 Dr. Pruni: 404-831-1400 Warriors Ninja Warrior Obstacles Ninja Warrior Obstacles at the ONLY Gift CertificatesRunning/Tumbling Fitness Training Center Parkour/Free Parkour/Free Running/Tumbling Fitness Center The Gwinnett/NE DeKTraining alb Monthly Community and Family M agazine Ninja Warrior Gym available for CrossFit — An EndResultz Inc. Company and the Ninja Warrior in this Area!

Experience!

Yoga and Pilates classes available

Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio

$25 Off

Cover Photographer Kerr Studio Inc.

l!!!

Summer Specia

225 off

“Life is an Obstacle and No Obstacle is Too Big!!!”

$

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@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 2016 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

$25 Off Our Town Gwinnett 1227 Rockbridge Road

Webmaster Suite 208-171 and No Obstacle is Too Big!!!”

CrossFit “Life is an Obstacle Robert Fordham Stone Mountain, GA 30087 d e it Unlim 101WebsiteDesigns.com

678-825-2049 Train with Info@OurTownGwinnett.com Distribution Coordinator American Ninja Ellen Sawtelle Warriors at the ONLY Warrior Gym in FeatureNinja Writers this Daidra Annis Area!

Stay Connected!

Macrae Brennan-Fuller Beaver Ruin Village Shopping Center OurTownGwinnett.com Rachael Brice (Behind Kroger at Lilburn 678) Would You Like to Train Like An American NinjaCrossfit Warrior?

Would You Like to Train An American Ninja Warrior?

HeidiLike Campbell Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com 4153 Lawrenceville Hwy Ninja Birthday Bashes!

Kim Hill Lilburn, GA 30047 Located: Beaver Ruin Village Located: Beaver Ruin Village Shopping Center (Behind Kroger at Lilburn Crossfit 678) Ages 7-17Shopping Center (Behind Kroger at Lilburn Crossfit 678) OurTownGwinnett Karla Socci Somers 4153 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn, GA 30047 4153 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn, GA 30047 www.LilburnChiropractic.com Michelle Watson Train with be in shape American Ninja Start now andit season.

Warriors at the ONLYswimsu Ninja Warrior Gym in this Area!

for

Custom Cabinets & Furniture 678-671-3539

Contributing Writers Daniel Carmack

OurTownGwinnett

Gym: 678-671-3539 Glenn: 678-458-7320

Gym: Glenn: 678-458-7320

Ninja Warrior Obstacles Parkour/Free Running/Tumbling Fitness Training Center

OurTownGwinnett

Ninja Warrior Obstacles Parkour/Free Running/Tumbling Fitness Training Center

IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: The Soles Continually Seek Ways to Improve their ITM Landscaping Services

7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 7 Chick-Fil-A Snellville 78 and the Community: Meet Colby Cameron 9 UFO Celebrating 20 Years in Business and Still Counting 11 Spring into Sports with Benchmark Physical Therapy $25 Off 12 One on One with Covenant Counseling: Making a Difference in

$25 Off

Full service from Designing • Building • Installing

Gwinnett County

“Life is an Obstacle and No Obstacle is Too Big!!!”

“Life is an Obstacle and No Obstacle is Too Big!!!”

Exceptional Cabinetry at Affordable Prices 13 Getting Schooled with Arcado Elementary: Problem-Solvers of the

RFS

PARTNERSHIP WITH DESIGNERS AND INDUSTRY PROFESSIONALS WELCOME Train with American Ninja Warriors at the ONLY Call for at Ninja Warrior Gympricing in this Area!

cabinets

770-921-2569

or visit us at the RFS Showroom!

Creators of custom Would You Like towoodwork Train Like An American Ninja Warrior? www.rfscabinets.net for over 20 years

Located: Beaver Ruin Village Shopping Center (Behind Kroger at Lilburn Crossfit 678) ForHwy, information on becoming 4153 Lawrenceville Lilburn, GA 30047

PAGE 6

Train with American Ninja Warriors at the ONLY Meet Juan Thompson: Setting High Ninja Warrior Gym in Challengingthis Others Area! to Step Up

Future

15

Standards for Himself and

17 The NETT Church Encourages Diversity and Welcomes All

Would You Like to Train Like An American Ninja Warrior?

Located: Beaver Ruin Village Shopping Center (Behind Kroger at Lilburn Crossfit 678)

an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com 4153 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn, GA 30047 or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

"Let's Be Glad You Did!"

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion I hope everyone is off to a great spring. Our community continues to prosper due to one simple reason: we have amazing people who live, work, and play right here in Our Town. We should be proud of our community. Most communities are not as tightknit as the ones we have here. With that said, our attention span is short, so here are some points to ponder for this month.

1. People love a good story. How many times recently have you heard about March Madness, busted brackets, Cinderella story teams, etc., even if you aren’t a basketball fan? It is hard to miss. Whether we like it or not, we have bought into the storyline, filled out a bracket, and/or watched a game. Now think back a few months when the focus was on Star Wars: The Force Awakens. Did you notice nearly everyone was talking about it? People love a good story. Make yours count.

2. People love to have fun. Why do you see so many people playing fantasy football, going to costume parties, or playing mindless games on their mobile devices? Many use these as a break from the everyday to relieve stress in our constantly connected world. They are fun and simple. Did you see the fun kids and adults alike had at the release of the new Star Wars movie when they dressed up, camped out, etc.? This “feeling like a kid again” is the same thing most experience when they visit Disneyworld. It’s okay to laugh, act silly, and smile. Remember, people love to have fun.

3. People love technology, yet miss the personal touch. How many of us just want someone to answer the phone, handle our requests, get it right the first time, and save us time when dealing with an issue or problem that they’ve had with a good, service, etc.? I know I do. But instead we hear, “For faster service visit us online...” Note: this is CODE for, “Don’t call us. We are busy, and if you go online, we don’t have to talk to you or staff as many people.” Technology may be the best and worst thing that has happened to us. We must be sure technology works for us and that we do not work for it. The personal touch matters now more than ever.

So, there you have it. If we want to communicate more effectively, we must consider our audience. Do we make other people feel part of the story? After all, most adults are just big “kids at heart” who at some level enjoy laughing and having fun. So…make business fun.

Make life fun.

I wish you a wonderful and blessed April. Be safe, enjoy your family and friends, and make someone’s day. WOW them. Why? Because it feels great, and it is a super thing to do. See you next month. And until then and as always, this is my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

Chick-Fil-A Snellville 78 and the Community: Meet Colby Cameron

By Michelle Watson Colby Cameron is the Operator (franchise owner) of Chick-fil-A Snellville, Hwy 78, located at 2932 Main St. W. Like many other Operators, Cameron started as a team member and worked his way up the Chick-fil-A path to ownership.

Cameron graduated from college in 2006. He thought about his life and the kind of impact he wanted to make in his church and community. He decided Chick-fil-A aligned with what was in his heart and head. After moving up to management, Cameron went on to help open a store in Athens, and in 2010 he moved to Snellville and took over the Hwy 78 store.

The Hwy 78 store was one of the first four free-standing stores that broke away from the longstanding tradition of Chick-fil-As in shopping malls during the 1980s. In an Continued on page 10

Our Town

“You’ll Be Glad You Did!” "Let's Be Glad

@RyanSauers

Ronnie Cail, Agent

You Did!"

2850 Main Street West Snellville, GA 30078

Ronnie Cail,(770) Agent 979-8600

Street West Ronnie2850 Cail,Main Agent I’ll give you a 2850 Main Street WestGA 30078 Snellville, $25 gift certificate Snellville, GA 30078 (770) 979-8600

for the opportunity to save you money!

(770) 979-8600

I’ll give you a

give you a $25 giftI’llcard $25 gift certificate for the opportunity

to you money! forsave the opportunity to save you money!

Cuidaremos Cuidaremos De De Usted Usted

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company, Bloomington, IL Statefarm.com® Bloomington, IL Statefarm.com®

www.RonnieCail.com www.RonnieCail.com Cuidaremos De Usted

s e i d Ed utomo’tive State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company Bloomington, IL Statefarm.com®

www.RonnieCail.com

A

Publix

Tucker

Lions Club Park

www.eddiesautomotiveservice.com

770-381-7574 28

ervice

S

5440 Webb Pkwy.

Lilburn, GA 30047 Rockbridge Rd.

By Ryan T. Sauers

Let’s Compare…

Let's Compare...

yrs.

Ask Us About

Lilburn Lawrenceville Hwy.

29

Webb Pkwy 5440

R R

NFIB

The Voice of Small Business

770-381-7574 Member

Like us on

acebook

Member

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 7

Better Grades, Better Scores…

BETTER STUDENT!

Spring Wine Tasting Maximize your test scores and grades at Total Learning Concepts, where students’ needs and goals are our top priority! For 30 years, our experienced and professional instructors have been helping Gwinnett students reach their maximum potential. We provide customized instruction for every student we teach – offering academic support and test preparation for learners of all ages, grades and ability levels. Our team is available afternoons, evenings and weekends to meet your student’s busy schedule.

celebrate

community

www.graftrestaurant.com

516 Grayson Parkway Grayson, Ga. 30017 770.338.9001

770-972-3803 I firmly believe in settling cases if a fair settlement is possible, it saves time, money and stress. But if the other side is unreasonable, we will “see them in court.”

Areas of Practice

C O N C E P T S

Tutoring • SAT/ACT Prep • Study Skills • Advisement

Professional Tutorial Service & Accredited Academy TotalLearningConcepts.com THANK YOU FOR VOTING US BEST TUTORING CENTER! WE APPRECIATE YOUR TRUST!

CELEBRATING 30 YEARS OF SERVICE TO STUDENTS

CALL TODAY TO LEARN ABOUT TLC’S PREPARATION SESSIONS FOR SPRING ASSESSMENTS! 770.381.5958 • 770.466.8282 • 770.271.7544 PAGE 8

Serving the Gwinnett area for over 30 years Licensed in GA. and DC-State & Federal Courts - UGA Law Degree

Please see our new website

Family Law: Divorce, Support, Custody & Adoption Estate Planning & Wills: Wills and Trusts Estate Planning Estate & Probate Disputes Litigation: Serious Injury and Death Cases Tractor-Trailer Truck Collisions Business Cases Criminal Defense Small Business: Corporations and LLCs Contracts Certified Mediator: Divorce, Civil and Business

walker-law-firm.com • 6340 Sugarloaf Parkway, Suite 200, Duluth, GA. 30097 • 2330 Scenic Hwy, Snellville, GA. 30078

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

4418_Dr. Chris' April final hi res.pdf 1 3/10/2016 11:53:53 AM

UFO Celebrating 20 Years in Business and Still Counting

By Our Town Staff

C

Unique Face Options (UFO) is a family owned corrective skin care boutique, celebrating their twentieth anniversary by gifting something different every month all year to express their gratitude to their clients. Apparently, they have been busy building relationships with people all over the country, including in and around the Gwinnett area, since 1996.

UFO’s aesthetician, Lisa Porter, customizes each treatment to make sure every client receives optimal results. Her husband and general manager, Byron Porter, greets each client by name and considers many of them family. Their own children, Morgan, 27, and Jordan, 24, have become part of the family’s successful business, heading up UFO’s PR/marketing and art department.

Throughout the years, UFO has earned many business accolades. Lisa has been featured in numerous magazines, including Forbes.com and Skin Inc., which recognized her as a “5-Star Aesthetician.” Furthermore, Lisa has appeared on radio and television programs such as Good Morning Cleveland, The Peachtree Morning Show, and A Woman’s Place.

For the past twenty years, clients have praised UFO for mastering their craft and honoring their word “to help both men and women achieve and maintain healthy skin for a lifetime.”

UFO’s reputation for providing high quality treatments has attracted high profile individuals such as Monica Pearson (since 1998), Kevin Hart, and various celebrities and actors. The Porters add, “We provide services for people that appreciate and understand the value of great skin care.”

Over the years UFO has expanded to include treatments ranging from customized facials to laser services. It’s always good to know that there are Buckhead-like services available right here in our very own Gwinnett County! UFO is having a Client Appreciation Day on Saturday, April 30, 2016 from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. and all are welcome.

More information at www.uniquefaceoptions.com M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

We help all ages regain, strengthen or maintain overall health, which in turn allows your body to HEAL NATURALLY! 1982 E. Main Street , Suite D | Snellville, GA 30078

770.979.5125 drchrisnaturalremedies.com

Our teachers love to teach!

Ages 6 weeks to 4 years old.

We implement age appropriate Creative Curriculum in all classes.

See our website for details.

Register Your Children Today!

Be sure to mention you saw this ad in Our Town Magazine!

Our Town

Enroll your child in a DECAL licensed Early Childhood Education program.

We serve Brookwood, Craig, Gwin Oaks and RD Head Elementary.

Field Trip calendar on our website.

FIVE FORKS ACADEMY

(770) 982-2000

www.fiveforksacademy.com

Enroll your c

3079 Five Forks Trickum Road Lilburn, GA 30047

AJW Enterprises Inc. DBA Five Forks Academy

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

a

Visit us anytime for a personal tour.

PAGE 9

30

Colby Cameron

Nutrition never tasted so good!

Continued from page 7

effort to bring families together, the store adopted the Parent Valet and Cell Phone Coop when it learned how these services were welcomed by customers at other Chick-fil-As. The Parent Valet allows parents to OUR ALL-NEW BOXING CLASS * IS HERE. pull up to the drive thru, place an order, request the valet service, and pay at the window. The team members then get to Boxing combines cardio, balance + strength work, setting up a table for the number people in the car, and even helping to to-ALL give you big benefits just 30 minutes. of -NEW -BOXING OUROUR ALL NEW OUR ALL BOXING NEW CLASS BOXING CLASS ISCLASS HERE. CLASS ISinHERE. * IS HERE. get the children out of the car and the -NEW ALL BOXING * IS HERE. OUR ALLOUR NEW BOXING CLASS IS HERE. OUR ALL NEW BOXING CLASS * IS HERE. -NEW OUR ALL BOXING HERE. your core family seated inside.

Tone your entire body Engage multiple musclesCLASS at once * IS Strengthen -NEW OUR ALLcardio, BOXING IS+HERE. The Cell Phone Coop (770) is a fun way to encourage families to connect with each other. The coop 925-2027 • www.chick-fil-a.com/lilb Boxing Boxing combines Boxing combines combines cardio, balance cardio, balance +CLASS strength balance + strength strength Boxing combines cardio,+ strength balance + strength Boxing combines cardio, balance is a box in which every member of the party puts his or her cell phone. If everyone in the party Boxing combines cardio, balance + strength to give to you giveto big you give benefits big you benefits big in benefits justin30 just minutes. in 30just minutes.

30 minutes. to big give you biginbenefits in just 30 minutes. combines cardio, balance + minutes. strength to giveBoxing you benefits just 30 minutes. makes it through the entire meal without pulling the cell phone back out, they each receive a free tobody give you big benefits in just 30 Boxing combines cardio, balance + strength Tone your Tone entire yourTone body entire your body Engage entire Engage multiple multiple Engage muscles muscles multiple at once at muscles once Strengthen at Strengthen once your Strengthen core your coreyour core Icedream® (Chick-fil-A’s delicious vanilla ice cream). to give you big benefits in just 30 minutes.

Tonebody your entire body Engage multiple at once Strengthen your core Tone your entire Engage multiple muscles at oncemuscles Strengthen your core to give you big benefits in just 30 minutes.

Tone your entire body Engage multiple muscles at once Strengthen your core Our classes* range from low to high intensity,which When asked what hisand favorite thing about operating a Chick-fil-A Cameron’s response *Excludes condiments dressings.© 2013 CFA Properties, Inc.store, All trademarks shown are the Tone your entire body Engage multiple muscles at once Strengthen your core means there’s always a program that works for you. was similar to that of other operators. Relationships. He enjoys the relationships he can build with Tone your entire body Engage multiple muscles at once Strengthen your core OurNEW classes Our classes rangeOur from range classes lowfrom to high range lowintensity,which to from highlow intensity,which to high intensity,which his customers and the community. To build relationships with his team members, the group has a CLASS means there’s means always there’s means aalways program there’s afrom program always that works ato that program forworks you. that for you. works for you.

Our classes range from low to high intensity,which Our classes range low high intensity,which Boxing softball team and participates in outdoor activities such as hiking up Stone Mountain. They also means there’s always a program that works for you.

Our classes range from low to high intensity,which means there’s always a program that works for you. means there’s always a program that works for you.

Our classes from low to high intensity,which † play on golf teams and mentor each other outside of the workplace.

Boxing Boxing range Boxing Our classes range from low to high intensity,which means there’s always a program that works for you.

Boxing The one thing Cameron would like readers to know about Chick-fil-A is that each store runs † † † Body Balance Boxing means there’s always a program that works for you.

Try3Try 3classes classes 3Try classes 3 FREE. classes FREE. FREE. FREE. Boxing † on a small business model. Each Operator is truly a local business owner. Large franchise-holding Body Balance Body Balance Body Balance † Try Boxing † Body Balance Try 3 classes FREE. corporations don’t own Chick-fil-A stores; local citizens like Cameron, who grew up in Lilburn Boxing Body Balance Try 3 classes FREE. † Body Balance Arms-Core-Legs Try 3 classes FREE. † and attended Parkview High School, own them. Operators are involved in the community, both Arms-Core-Legs Arms-Core-Legs Arms-Core-Legs 2144 Fountain Square Body Balance 2144 Fountain 2144 Fountain 2144 Square Fountain Square Square Arms-Core-Legs Try 3Snellville, classes FREE. 2144 Fountain Body Balance through store activities and events as well as through their personal lives. They understand they GA GA 30078 Snellville, Snellville, GASquare 30078 GA 30078 Snellville, 30078 Arms-Core-Legs 2144 Fountain Square Snellville, GA 30078 Arms-Core-Legs 678.344.0200 678.344.0200 678.344.0200 Dance Dance and Tone and Dance Toneand Tone 678.344.0200 owe their success to the community because without their patronage the stores could not exist.

2144 Fountain Square Dance Tone Snellville, GA 30078 678.344.0200 Dance and andArms-Core-Legs Tone 2144 Fountain Square Snellville, GA 30078 Arms-Core-Legs 678.344.0200 Chick-fil-A Hwy 78, Snellville, has many events throughout the year, with 200-250 children Dance and Tone 2144 Fountain Square Snellville, GA 30078 678.344.0200 Dance and Tone CurvesCurves Circuit Circuit with Curves Jillian with Circuit Michaels Jillian with Michaels Jillian Michaels Curves Curves .com Curves .com .com in attendance. They host daddy-daughter date nights and mommy-son date nights. They even Snellville, GA 30078 678.344.0200 Curves Circuit withand Jillian Michaels Dance Tone Curves .com Curves Circuit Jillian Michaels 678.344.0200 Curves .com have a circus event and a gingerbread house event each year.

Dancewith and Tone Curves Circuit with Jillian Michaels Curves .com *

*

*

*

*

*

*

*

* *

Try 3 classes FREE.

NEW CLASSNEW CLASS NEW CLASS *

NEW CLASS

Lilburn

* NEW CLASS NEW CLASS

NEW CLASS NEW CLASS

Curves.com Curves.com Curves.com

Curves Circuit with Jillian Michaels Curves Circuit with Jillian Michaels Curves Circuit with Jillian Michaels

*At participating *At participating locations*At only. locations participating only.locations only. *At participating locations only. † Limit three†free Limit classes three free per † Limit person classes three at per participating free person classes at participating per locations person only. atlocations participating Not valid only. with locations Not any valid other only. with offer. any Not other No valid cash with offer. value any Noother and cashnew offer. value members No andcash new only. value members First andvisit new only. discount members First visit may only. discount be First offered may visitinbe discount offeredmay in be offered in exchange for exchange the for free the exchange classes. three free Free forclasses. the classes threeFree must free classes classes. beNot completed must Free be classes within completed must 7 days within beofcompleted initial 7 days consultation. of within initial 7consultation. days Call of for initial our class Call consultation. for schedule. our Call Offer schedule. forexpires our class Offer 12/31/16. schedule. expires Offer expires 12/31/16. † Limit three free classes perthree person at participating locations only. valid with any other offer.

No cash value and new members only.

Firstclass visit discount may be offered12/31/16. in locations only. *Atinitial participating locations exchange for the three free classes. Free classes must be completed within 7 *At daysparticipating of consultation.

Call foronly. our class schedule. Offer expires 12/31/16. © 2016 Curves © 2016 International, Curves©International, 2016 Inc. Curves International, Inc. Inc. participating locations † Limit three classes person at participating locations only.

Not*At valid any other offer. only.

No cash value and new only. Firstonly. visit discount maydiscount be offeredmay in © 2016 Curves International, Inc. † Limit three free classes perfree person atper participating locations only.

Not valid withwith any other offer.

No cash value andmembers new members First visit be offered in

More information at http://www.cfarestaurant.com/snellville/home.

exchange for the three freeat classes.

Free classes must be completed within days of initial Call formembers our class schedule.

Offer expires 12/31/16. † Limit three free classes per person participating locations only.

Not*At valid with any other offer.

Noconsultation. cash value and new only.

Firstschedule. visit discount may be offered12/31/16. in participating locations only. exchange for the three free classes.

Free classes must be completed within 7 7days of initial consultation.

Call for our class Offer expires exchange for the three free classes. Free classes must be completed within International, 7 days of initialInc. consultation. Call for our class schedule. Offer expires 12/31/16. ©*At 2016 Curves participating locations † Limit three free classes per person at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer. only.

No cash value and new members only. First visit discount may be offered in © Curves International, Inc. © 2016 Curves Inc. exchange for the three freeat classes.

Free classes must be2016 completed within 7other days offer. of initial consultation.

Call formembers our class schedule. expires 12/31/16. † Limit three free classes per person participating locations only.

Not valid with anyInternational, No cash value and new only. FirstOffer visit discount may be offered in exchange for the three free classes. Free classes must be completed within International, 7 days of initialInc. consultation. Call for our class schedule. Offer expires 12/31/16. © 2016 Curves © 2016 Curves International, Inc.

PAGE 10

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Spring into Sports

By Daniel Carmack PT, DPT With spring around the corner, it is time to start preparing for the upcoming sports season. One of the most common problems we tend to face when approaching a new season is that small injury that pops up right at the beginning from trying to do too much too quickly, or just starting a new sport altogether. Before the season starts, it’s crucial to look at your movement patterns and general physical wellbeing in order to prepare for your sport.

As a college athlete, I went through a couple different types of seasons. In my first season I waited until the last minute to start training and ended up with a long list of nagging injuries throughout the year. Every season after that I made an effort to prepare through an organized program to make sure I was as ready as possible to play the full season at my best. The difference was amazing as I felt better and played just as well in November as I did in August. I realize now, after attending graduate school and receiving my Doctorate in Physical Therapy, that I should have been utilizing physical therapy services as part of my preseason program.

A physical therapist is an expert in the analysis and improvement of movement. Physical therapists are able to assess movement flaws by identifying joint mobility restrictions, muscle flexibility limitations, muscle weakness, and even motor control issues. Identifying and treating these conditions can reduce the likelihood of injury in any sport while also maximizing your potential for success, from the up and coming young soccer star to the weekend warrior looking to run his or her first 5K. Our physical therapists are experienced at working with all types of athletes to develop personalized exercise programs in combination with manual therapy techniques to achieve the best outcome. We are able to perform various movement screens in order to identify risk factors for injury and to help you address them before they become a problem. Let our staff at BenchMark Physical Therapy help you with your preseason plans and develop a sports-specific program to get you competing at your very best!

BenchMark Physical Therapy, Daniel Carmack PT, DPT. More information at www.bmrp.com

APRIL Love your lawn, all year Love your lawn, long. all year long.

Fertilization to bring your lawn out of dormancy.

Spot weed control.

Insect control and fertilization for your trees MARCH and shrubs.

Pre-emergents

Love to help prevent your Landscape crabgrass. of a Your lawn, our passion.

Simply Green Free Lawnlawn an lawn, Post-emergents lawn treatm Care Plus customer take care of for new cu • Lawn care Discount all to any existing Not valid with any o Custom fertilization and weed control programs year weeds. your first long.andFertilizer to • Tree and shrubFree care lawn analysis

Go to the professionals at

Body of Health and Life Book your appointment today

(678) 344-0050

lawn $25.00. strong Fertilization, disease and treatment insect controlis onlybuild

Discount for new customers with lawnsroots. up to 6,000 sq.ft.

T Therapeutic Massage Not valid with any other discount offer.

• Locally owned and operated T Sports Massage Landscape of a Smaller company, bigger service Your lawn, our passion.

Simply Green Lawn T Prenatal Massage Care Plus customer • No contract to sign • Core aeration T Chronic Pain Therapy we come Spring is the bestYou timecall, to relieve soil compaction Free lawn analysis and your first T Kinesiology Taping Your• lawn, our passion.

Lawn care • Service guaranteedlawn treatment is only $25.00.

Discount for new customers with lawns up to 6,000 sq.ft.

• Lawn care T Hot Stones Weand strive to exceed yourNot expectations Custom fertilization weed control programs valid with any other discount offer. simplygre Custom fertilization and weed control programs T Lymphedema Therapies Tree and shrub care • Tree •and shrub care Fertization, disease insect control disease and insectand control T Compression Garment Fittings Fertilization, • Core•aeration T Ionic Detox Foot Bath Locally owned and operated Spring is the best time to relieve soil compaction

Callay! tod

Smaller company, bigger service

Gift Certificates Available CALL TODAY

(678) 344-0050 1780 Oak Road, Suite A-2 • Snellville, GA

• Locally owned and operated Smaller bigger service • company, No contract to sign You call, we come • No contract to sign You call, we come

• Service guaranteed • Service guaranteed

Callay! tod

exceed your expectations We striveWe to strive exceedto your expectations

simplygreenlawncare.com

www.bodyofhealthandlife.com

Our Town

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 11

Come See What’s NEW FOR SPRING

Your Happy Place Over 5 acres of beautiful healthy landscape & garden plants.

1g Blueberries Reg. $5.99

$3.99

1g Azaleas In bud & bloom

$5.99

1983 Main Street East (Hwy. 78) Snellville, GA 30078 Over 700 Garden Roses including NEW Varieties

770-972-2470

Familytreegardening.com

One on One with Covenant Counseling: Making a Difference in Gwinnett County

By Michelle Watson Covenant Counseling is a pastoral counseling center that was founded in 1992 by Dr. Joseph Whitwell and Dr. Kerry Duncan. They were first supported by local, partnering churches and housed in a small office trailer behind Snellville United Methodist Church. The founders seek to help patients do well and be well through a variety of counseling services and programs.

Covenant Counseling’s board president, Dr. Yvonne Freeman, has served on the board for eight years. She reports that 313,000 people in Georgia have been diagnosed with mental health disorders or issues, and 186,000 children have been identified as having substance abuse problems, making centers such as Covenant Counseling essential to serving the needs of the people.

An individual’s environment, biology, or drug use (legal or illegal) can contribute to mental problems or illnesses. Whether the issue is drug or alcohol treatment, healing from rape or sexual abuse, or struggling to adjust to life after military service, patients can be assured they are receiving the best care possible by a counselor trained for that specific need.

Continued on page 18

28 beers on tap!

Many Craft and Local

Come have a pint or take home a 32 or 64 ounce growler.

Full bar available.

Restaurant and Bar

the area’s only farm-to-table restaurant come try our new spring menu

lunch monday - friday 11:00am - 2:30pm

dinner sunday - thursday 4:30pm - 9:00pm friday - saturday 4:30pm - 10:00pm

brunch saturday - sunday 11:00am - 2:30pm

Have a special occasion coming up?

Check out our new private dinning area, accommodates up to 80 people.

a portion of our profit goes to support local schools, churches, families, farmers and businesses 107 mainstreet | lilburn, ga | 30047 | 770.564.6911 | 1910publichouse.com | info@1910publichouse.com eat well hang local stay positive PAGE 12

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Getting Schooled with Arcado Elementary: Problem-Solvers of the Future

By Daidra Annis

New London School of Driving “Keeping teens and the roadways safe”

• 30 Hours Classroom Instruction • 6 Hours Behind-the-Wheel Training • Local Door-to-Door Pick-Up for Driving Lessons One student per caryour consulta “Dr. Simmons is proud to offer Botox and Dermal Fillers. Call the •office to schedule • Weekend classes 770-466-0410 weekday classes are held during school breaks Online Booking • Flexible Scheduling newlondondriving.com • Driving Test

No statement describes the STEM Program at Arcado Elementary any better than the school’s motto: “Where the keys to Learning Come to Life.” STEM is the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math curriculum that is taught in Georgia Middle Schools.

Angie Curtis, STEM Specialist at Arcado, focuses on real world problems, and strives to teach her students basic problemsolving skills that often involve the Technology, Media, and Art teams, as well. For one of her third grade classes, a real world problem presented itself when one of their classmates, Fernando, faced a need that impacted his daily life.

Amazingly, it was the students themselves that approached third grade teacher, Laura Davis, when they noticed that Fernando’s wheelchair would not hold his backpack. His backpack was constantly slipping off and hitting the motor, causing Fernando to have to stop and retrieve it multiple times a day.

The students handled all aspects of the project – from conception to completion – with very little direction from Ms. Curtis. The reason for that, as one student explained, is “so we can think and solve problems.” For this project, the steps included drawing blueprints, buying materials, creating the prototypes, and the all-important, presenting the sales pitch. Kid-friendly materials were “purchased” with play money in the class store, which required math and budgeting skills.

Collaboration with the Tech, Media, and Art departments allowed for additional research, Animoto presentations, and nicely finished projects. Finally, Fernando himself made his choice out of the five Continued on page 21

isJohn honored to beIV, we are committed to providing you with the high AtDr. the Simmons dental office of W. Simmons, comprehensive dental care, focused on both the function and beauty of your smile. A one of only nine dentists improving in patient care and comfort are our primary concerns. We are proud to run a practice that treats ea Georgia to have passed the kind, gentle, and caring manner, just like family. We offer a full range of the latest cosmetic a rigorous required to long-lasting, earn procedures thattesting concentrate on ensuring brilliant results you will love, and others

Cosmetic Dentistry The cosmetic procedures we offer can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. We offer a wide selection of procedures that can correct almost any dental imperfection.

• Porcelain Veneers • Teeth Whitening • Dental Bonding • Gum Recontouring • Dental Implants • All-Porcelain Crowns

BEFORE

Compassionate Dentistry

AFTER

accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

His state-of-the-art equipment and updated technology allow him to affordably serveDENTAL CARE AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY D.M.D., P.C. • SUPERIOR his patients by providing healthy, beautiful smiles. Our experienced team provides five-star service, personalized care, and an extraordinary commitment to your health and well-being. Please join our Call for an Appointment family by scheduling a new patient exam.

J OHN W. S IMMONS,

2381-B Main Street E Snellville, Georgia 300

770-985-2437

Our superior services can recapture the health, functionality, John W. Simmons, IV, DMD, PC and youthful appearance of your natural 2381-B Main Street East Before www.smilesbysimmons.co smile. Our practice focuses on providing After Snellville, Georgia 30078 “A pretty smile makes all the difference! I’m glad I trusted Dr. Simmons to give me one!” long-lasting results and promoting Hours: Monday 9:00am - 7:00pm Tuesday 7:00am 770-985-2437Office • smilesbysimmons.com excellent overall dental health.

Wednesday 7:00am - 6:00pm Thursday 7:00am - 2: Dr. John W. Simmons, IV H e a lt H y • B e a u t i f u l • i n s p i r e d Our Town

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 13

ALPHA CONSTRUCTION • Interior/Exterior Painting • Roofing • • Custom Fences • Decking • • General Repairs • Power Washing • • Renovations •

FREE ESTIMATES

Nick Guidry (C) 404-952-7663 alphaconstruction123@yahoo.com www.alphaconstructionandrestoration.com Licensed & Insured

10% Off

500 Off

$

250 Off

$

Military & Seniors

Complete Roof Job

Any Job of $5000 or more

With coupon. Expires 6-30-16

With coupon. Expires 6-30-16

With coupon. Expires 6-30-16

Cannot combine coupons.

on! o S ing 17 Com mer 20 Sum

Here are some of our Dogwood Forest Differences: • Activities and design features that promote our belief that our bodies have the ability to heal itself given a healing environment and lifestyle.

• Our structural design maximizes windows, porches, walking gardens and pressurized air systems that forces healthy air into common areas.

• Our buildings are designed to incorporate some of the highest safety levels in the world and are constructed with concrete and steel foundations and structural walls.

PAGE 14

Dogwood Forest of Grayson Call for more information! (678) 496-2319 www.dogwoodforest.com/grayson Assisted Living | Memory Care | Respite Care | Adult Day Care

Because a better living environment leads to a better life.

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Meet Juan Thompson: Setting High Standards for Himself and Challenging Others to Step Up

By Kim Hill Juan Thompson has always been one who wanted to be different and to excel in a way where he would be setting an example for others. Born in Akron, Ohio, Juan grew up during the 1950s with his mother and grandparents, and without a father. His grandfather and great uncles did their best to fill in, but at sixteen years old, Juan attended a father-son event with his grandfather and remembers telling himself, “If God blesses me, my kids will never be without me.” And they never have.

Juan was a high school sports star, served in the United States Army doing rescue missions in Vietnam, and even played professional baseball for a couple of years with the Pittsburg Pirates. After that he moved to New York City, met his first wife, and had four children. Juan couldn’t see raising them “in concrete and skyscrapers,” but his wife wanted to stay in New York, so they separated and Juan took his family back to Ohio. There he met and married his second wife, who had two children of her own.

Four kids living two doors down befriended Juan’s family, and when an unfortunate incident sent both of their parents to prison, Juan adopted the kids, increasing the number of Thompson children to ten.

After seven years of marriage, Juan’s wife died from breast cancer. While her sister took her two children, Juan was left alone with eight. It was a devastating time, and people told him he couldn’t raise eight kids. But Juan had always been one to persevere. “Tell me I can’t, and I’ll show you I will,” he says. He pastored a small church for ten years, building it from ten members to over 200. The congregation was helpful with his kids, becoming part of their lives. Juan also worked in automobile sales at several dealerships – earning top sales honors – and in the broadcasting field. His kids never saw him without a job, and they have told him he gave them a great foundation. “I believe men should work,” he says, “not be on welfare, not be in the streets. That’s where you set the example for your kids. This is where dads become role models.” He spent every dime he made to put all eight children through college debt-free.

Continued on page 20

Fall Applications Are Being Accepted!

Providence Christian Academy is a distinctly covenant, Christian school that encourages spiritual development while integrating Biblical truth into every subject area.

Enhanced by multiple offerings in art, music, technology and athletics, Providence offers K-12 students a challenging academic program, including a nationally certified STEM program.

4575 Lawrenceville Hwy, Lilburn, GA 30047 | 770. 279. 7200 providencechristianacademy.org Providence Christian Academy admits students of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its admissions policies, educational policies, scholarship programs, and athletic and other school administered programs.

Our Town

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 15

Gwinnett’s premier event destination for 20 years!

Come Get a Haircut Before It Gets Too Hot

Chris’

BARBER SHOP

Serving the Lilburn area for over 20 years!

Best Haircuts in Town!

NO APPOINTMENTS NECESSARY!

770-923-3216

3Kid’sOFF cuts

Making Lilburn Beautiful One Haircut at a Time.

$

5385 Five Forks Trickum Rd. • Suite M Stone Mountain, GA 30087

In Mountain Park Plaza between Always Fresh Restaurant and Mountain Park Fitness OPEN TUE. - FRI., 10AM-6PM, SAT., 10AM-2PM

Caring for your family with a

Gentle Touch

Weddings & receptions, holiday parties, anniversary celebrations, sweet 16 parties, corporate events and more!

and creating beautiful smiles!

Fred Angeletti, DMD Lida Paez, DMD

(770) 972-6540 • www.vecoma1.com

Exam and X-rays

$

59

For new Patients

$

899

99

Now Offering Same Day Crowns

(Restrictions Apply)

www.mypedsortho.com

www.nextlevelsportsmed.com

404-321-9900 22 Highly-Trained Providers Specializing in Pediatric Orthopedics and Sports Medicine

14 Locations Including:

Duluth

Lawrenceville

Snellville

Dentures/ Partials

Regular price $1,500.00 (Restrictions Apply)

70

Take-Home $ Whitening

Invis Align

400 OFF

$

770-921-8442

3970 Five Forks Trickum Road SW St. B, Lilburn, GA 30047 Follow us on Facebook www.thegentletouchdentist.com

PAGE 16

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

The NETT Church Encourages Diversity and Welcomes All

Educational Entertainment

Cuddle

By Kim Hill Two years ago, Reverend Rodrigo Cruz, as a minister at Northbrook United Methodist Church in Roswell, had two main responsibilities: to serve the Hispanic community and to preach a contemporary service in English.

While he understood language was an issue, he had a hard time with the segregation of the two roles. One Sunday morning his son asked which church they would be attending that day, English or Spanish. Reverend Cruz felt something was not right when such a choice had to be made within the church. He approached his district superintendents, expressing love for his duties at Northbrook, and also a desire to be a part of a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural church. The reply was, “That’s great. We don’t have enough of those.”

Cruz explains that most churches are racially specific, with maybe a sprinkle of diversity. “I had a call to be part of a church that embraces all kinds of cultures. Gwinnett County is the most diverse county in the SE United States, and 30047 is the most diverse zip code in the county. That’s why we decided to start a church on this side of town.”

Reverend Cruz grew up in Monterrey, Mexico, and met his wife, a Sacramento, California native, while she lived there with her parents, who were missionaries. The couple has three children, so Reverend Cruz understands first-hand the need for a church that embraces not just different cultures, but inter-racial families and second and third generation immigrants who would not feel comfortable going to a single race church. “We want to reach out to absolutely everybody,” he says.”

Our vision is to enable nations to experience transformation together.”

When deciding what to call the church, Rev. Cruz did not want just a regionally specific name like First United Methodist Church of Lilburn; he wanted it to be all-inclusive. God was calling him to minister to more than Lilburn. His wife really came up with the name, saying when we cast a net into the water, we do not get to pick and choose what kind of “fish” we catch. They can be black, white, Hispanic, Korean. The Nett was chosen, with the additional “t” added to represent Gwinnett.

Continued on page 20

Do You Need A Quality New Or Pre-Owned

Car, Truck, Van or SUV?

Call Me Directly Today!

Juan Thompson

“The Tra nsporta Specialis tion t”

Touch

Learn Mention coupon code OT16 for

0 off $25an.0 y party

Office: 770-972-1222 Fax: 678-820-3080

jthompson@malcolmcunninghamhyundai.com

Call us now to book your next party, school or retirement home entertainment.

4 Quality Certified Pre-Owned Vehicles!

4 All Buyers Accepted 4 $100 Referral Checks Paid ASAP! Monday - Friday: 9am - 8pm ay For Call Tod iscounts Saturday: 9am - 7pm nal D Closed Sunday Additio able With Avail !

4355 Stone Mountain Hwy • Lilburn This Ad

Parrot Productions

M al col mC u n n i n g h a mHy u n d a i . c o m

parrotproshows.com

Our Town

Brenda Bean - (770) 715-5337

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 17

Covenant Counseling

Continued from page 12

At Covenant Counseling a counselor enters into a covenant relationship with the patient, something that Dr. Whitwell says is essential to recovery. Each counselor is dedicated to walking with the patient through the entire healing process, whether it takes a few months or several years.

His hope is that it will become a continuing cycle, and that once a patient has received help, he or she will then be a resource to others, directing them to Covenant or other counseling services and encouraging them not to be ashamed of seeking help.

With pastoral counseling, the counselors are ordained ministers in their respective churches or denominations. Dr. Whitwell describes Covenant Counseling as an interfaith counseling center.

Though they are all Christians, the counselors adhere to one centralizing value – the dignity of all humankind – allowing them to serve patients from all walks of life, including Muslims, Eastern religion adherents, and others.

Because mental health is not only an individual but a community-wide concern, Covenant Counseling seeks to form relationships with local churches, schools, and public service organizations. They offer a variety of workshops to help churches deal with recurring issues. They also have workshops for kids to train them in conflict resolution or anger management. The center can easily tailor a workshop to an organization or church’s specific needs.

Covenant Counseling desires to overcome the barriers patients face when seeking help. One such barrier is time. Because the counselors are able to devise their own schedules, patients may choose a counselor who offers evening or weekend hours in addition to regular office hours.

Another hindrance in seeking treatment is cost. Covenant Counseling accepts some insurance plans, as well as offering a sliding fee schedule for those who don’t have insurance. Additionally, interns and residents, who come from local universities and online schools, may be available to see patients who cannot afford even a small amount.

Drs. Whitwell and Freeman would like Gwinnett County citizens to know that the face of mental illness is everywhere – in our homes, churches, schools, grocery stores, and on our jobs.

Compassionate, impassioned contributions from the community are needed so that everyone can live together in safety and in good health.

Covenant Counseling, a fully independent counseling center, is not licensed through or accredited by any church, denomination, or organization. And, because Covenant Counseling is a non-profit corporation, all donations are tax deductible.

More information at www.covenantcounseling.org. Make a contribution now via: GOFUND ME http://www.CovenantCounselingCenter/HOPE.com

Don’t trust just anyone to fix your car Come to Atlanta’s Finest Auto Body Repair Shop u Mercedes-Benz, Infiniti and Nissan GTR Certified u Lexus & Sprinter Trained u Elite Aluminum Certified u Quality repair for ALL makes & models u All insurance companies welcome

3 locations serving you: 3400 McDaniel Rd Duluth, GA 30096 770-623-6300 •••• 3371 West Hospital Ave Chamblee, GA 30341 770-458-0165 •••• 345 McFarland Parkway Alpharetta, GA 30004 404-401-1933

www.sportsandimportscollisions.com PAGE 18

The Village Corner

German Restaurant, Bakery & Tavern We are a full-service bakery, restaurant, and tavern specializing in German cuisine.

6655 James B Rivers Dr, Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Hours Of Operation: Tuesday - Friday 9am-10pm Saturday 8am-11pm Sunday 10am-9pm Closed Monday

(770) 498-0329

We are making our beer now - Brew Pub

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Gangwisch Dental Group LLC

Dr. Richard P. Gangwisch, D.D.S, M.A.G.D., A.B.G.D. Board Certified General Dentist Dr. John D. Hulsey, D.M.D.

G

Full Mouth Reconstruction Cosmetic Dentistry Sedation Dentistry (Oral & IV) Crowns and Bridges Dental Implants Root Canal Treatment Gum Treatment Oral Surgery Dentures Orthodontics Invisible Braces/Invisalign速 Teeth Whitening

(770)923-3966

Our Town

Cosmetic and Family Dentistry

$100 OFF

Any Dental Service For Every Family Member (for new patients only) Financing Available 912 Killian Hill Rd., Lilburn, GA 30047

www.gangwischdentalgroup.com

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 19

egional School Regional Catholic School St.Catholic John Neumann Neumann Regional Catholic School ancial Aid • Catholic ValuesSt. John • Financial Aid

ended Day • Program Community Service • Extended Day Program • Catholic Values • Financial Aid ue Ribbon School of Involvement Excellence• Community • Family • Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Service • Extended Day Program • Family Involvement • Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

St. John Neumann Regional Catholic School

• • • • • •

OPEN H

OPEN HO

O Catholic Values every Tue USE sday Community Service from 9 -10:30am Family Involvement Financial Aid Extended Day Program Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

ing Families Since 1986

ad • Lilburn, GA 30047

every Tue USE sday from 9 -10:30am

OOPPEENNHHOOUS

eve veryryTuTueesds aSEE dayy frfroomm 9:390-1-010:3:3 00aamm

U

K-8th Grade ~ Serving Families Since 1986 K-8th Grade – Serving Families Since 1986 791 Tom Smith Road • K-8th Lilburn,Grade GA 30047 ~ Serving Since 1986 791 Tom Smith RoadFamilies • Lilburn, GA 30047

www.sjnrcs.org 770-381-0557 • www.sjnrcs.org 791 Tom Smith Road ••Lilburn, GA 30047 770-381-0557 www.sjnrcs.org 770-381-0557 • www.sjnrcs.org

Frida’s Mexican Restaurant The Best In Town!

Hours: Sun. - Thurs. 11am - 10pm Fri. - Sat. 11am - 11pm

770-513-3150

706 Grayson Highway, Lawrenceville, GA 30045

Visit us on Facebook!

Between Sugarloaf & Hwy. 124 Across from the BP

Come join the celebration

Cinco de Mayo

5 0 0 OFF

$

Purchase of $25 or more

Not Valid on Fridays • Dine in Only Alcohol excluded. Cannot be combined with other offers. Not valid with specials featuring the same item. One coupon per table. Expires 5/31/16

(Max Value $7) Not Valid on Fridays • Dine in Only

Alcohol excluded. Cannot be combined with other offers. Not valid with specials featuring the same item. One coupon per table. Expires 5/31/16

PAGE 20

All-aboard! We’re singing a new tune… and we hope you’ll join us. The Little Gym has teamed up with Kindermusik to create new, harmonious program

Voted “Best of Gwinnett”

Not Valid on Fridays • Dine in Only

Entire Check, Excluding Alcohol

The church meets at Parkview High School. Weekly services started January 10th and attendance has reached around 80. “Last summer, it was just me, my wife, and our three kids,” says Cruz with a laugh. Services start at 10:02 a.m., reflecting Luke 10:2, the Bible verse through which God spoke to him when he began praying about starting the church. He has prayed the verse each morning at 10:02 for more than a year.

The Nett United Methodist Church is very intentional to become a multi-ethnic church. Three Sundays a month, a diverse leadership team offers a contemporary worship service with elements of different cultures. One Sunday in four is mission Sunday, where a need in the community is met.

“The UMC mission statement is ‘To make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world,’” Reverend Cruz explains. “We are trying to do that by enabling people from different races and ethnic groups to experience Jesus Christ together. If we are not reaching out to all, then our mission is not complete.”

More information at www.thenettchurch.com

Lunch Specials

Alcohol excluded. Cannot be combined with other offers. Not valid with specials featuring the same item. One coupon per table. Expires 5/31/16

15 % OF F

Continued from page 17

starting at $5.49!

Mon. - Fri. 11am - 3pm

www.FridasMexicanRestaurant@live.com www.fridas-restaurant.com

Purchase of $35 or more

NETT Church

Abel Gonzalez,

Moon walk , jalapeno contest, clown , drink specials , food specials , food truck at the patio and much much more !

7 0 0 OF F

Continued from page 15 “I have always lived for my family,” Juan explains. “I wanted to go beyond what the average person does and try to set an example for other males. I don’t care what color you are, black, white or whatever; I just wanted to set a standard for males to go beyond because I grew up without my father.” Juan spent ten years helping in the prison ministry, and has been honored by organizations such as the Kiwanis Club, NAACP, Jaycees, and Urban League. But he stresses, “It’s not about me – it’s about the future of family.”

Juan now has eleven grandchildren and has put $30,000 in college accounts for all but three of them. His children tell him they can handle the other three, and at an Atlanta area family reunion in 2013, the kids held a meeting with Juan. They were concerned that he lived only for them, and that he would die before living “his life.” They encouraged him to move to Georgia, where he had family and friends, and where the weather was warm. Juan’s Georgia cousins applauded the idea, luring him with promises of fishing and hunting trips. After much persuasion, Juan made the difficult decision to make the move, knowing he had indeed raised responsible children who could fulfill the needs of their own families (though he still sneaks in a college fund deposit every now and then).

Employed as a sales representative at Malcolm Cunningham, Juan is adjusting to living “his life,” but never misses an opportunity to share and to inspire others. “My story is just one of encouragement… I’m just praying it will touch somebody and God will bless somebody with my story.”

Contact Juan to speak to your group at (330) 329-2695 or elder126@yahoo.com

Executive Chef • FREE Wi-Fi • Let Us Cater Your Next Party Or Event!

The Biggest Fiesta of the Year

$

Juan Thompson

FREE CHEESE DIP

With purchase of $20 or more Not Valid on Fridays • Dine in Only

Alcohol excluded. Cannot be combined with other offers. Not valid with specials featuring the same item. One coupon per table. Expires 5/31/16

Children newborn through 4 years can now sing, dance, and learn through Kindermusik music and movement classes at The Little Gym! Classes provide a sensory rich environment, complete with music, movement, and fun to help your child learn to march to the beat of their own drum!

Try a class for FREE!

The Shoppes at Webb Gin www.thelittlegym.com/snellvillega 770-982-0901

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Arcado Elementary

Continued from page 13

prototypes created. Most of the students who participated said that designing was their favorite part of the project, along with solving an actual problem. They enjoyed seeing what Fernando liked best, and all of them said it “felt nice to help a friend.”

Another of Ms. Curtis’ STEM classes was fortunate to find Monarch caterpillars on milkweed plants that grow on the Lilburn Trail. With Monarch caterpillars being so rare in Georgia, Ms. Curtis knew that she had to seize this wonderful educational opportunity. A school-wide project began, with all 36 classes – including the STEM lab, Math, Technology, and Art Specials – participating in the year-long process of planting additional milkweed, and tagging the caterpillars before releasing them to continue their annual migration to Mexico. Don’t worry, tagging didn’t hurt. It simply consisted of placing a sticker on their wing.

In addition, the group participated in the Symbolic Monarch program sponsored by Journey North, in which the students made craft butterflies with information about Arcado, Lilburn, and other local facts. The butterflies are mailed to schools in Mexico, and once the migration of the real Monarch butterflies is complete, Arcado students will receive craft butterflies back from the Mexican schools that include similar fun facts about their school and region. The Symbolic Monarch program allows Arcado students to connect internationally, and to learn from students across the globe.

The second and fourth grade classes are studying Forces in Motion and Sound. They are busy designing band instruments, that will be featured at “STEaM Night” (adding the “A” for Art), and roller coasters, that will include a visit from a structural engineer who will help with the design process.

Ms. Curtis is quick to point out that she does not provide such well-rounded STEM activities alone. Arcado is an “inclusion school,” and without that designation, Fernando may not have found the help that he needed to adapt his wheelchair. Dr. Janie Avant, Occupational Impaired Leader, works closely with students like Fernando, and was also instrumental in bringing all of the various programs together for the completion of the backpack project. Along with unwavering support from Principal Penny Palmer Young, Arcado also has wonderful parental support, with many working in STEM-related professions at organizations like the CDC and Georgia Tech. Some parents have been guest speakers who have provided real world lessons to complement the classroom curriculum.

Support from the community is strong as well through Official STEM Partnerships with Stone Mountain Park and the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center.

Arcado ES is located at 5150 Arcado Road in Lilburn. More information at http://arcado.org/home/

SATURDAY - APRIL 30th

37TH ANNUAL GRAYSON DAY Race Begins @ 7:30 a.m.

Parade Begins @ 10:00 a.m.

Festival 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Lanier Jazz @ 7:00 p.m.

“The Good Dinosaur” on the big screen at Dusk

Our Town

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 21

$25 Off 25 Off

$

Call us Today

404-COOLING

Any Repair Repair Any

**$250minimum minimumpurchase purchaserequired. required.Not Notvalid valid **$250 thirdparty partycustomers, customers,new new construction, forforthird construction, or commercial customers.

OfferOffer with with coupon or commercial customers. coupon only. not be be combined combined with only. Can Cannot with any any other other offer. offer.

Expires 04/30/16 Expires 04/31/16

20 Off $20 OFF

$

Or visit us on the web at

HEATING

COOLING

www.404COOLING.com

Diagnostic Service Call Diagnostic

Service Call

**Offer with with coupon only.only.

CanCannot not be be **Offer coupon combined with anywith other combined anyoffer. other offer.

Expires 4/31/16Expires 04/30/16

$40 Off Off 40

$

Comfort Club Membership :$179 1 system

* REGULAR:$288 $1792 1systems system $397 $2883 2systems systems $397 **Offer with coupon only.

Can 3 notsystems be combined

**Offer with anywith othercoupon offer. only. Cannot be combined Expires 4/31/16 with any other offer. Expires 04/30/16

PAGE 22

Prepare your HVAC system for the Spring Weather Now!

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

  

Bring in this ad for one hour time Bringofinrange this ad forand one hour Bring in this ad for one hour unlimited handgun rental of range time and of range time and for onehandgun person.* unlimited rental unlimited handgun rental for$22 one person.* for oneValue person.* Expires: 07-31-2016 $22 Value $22 Value Expires: 07-31-2016 *You must use our ammunition in rental guns.

Expires: No cash 07-31-2016 value. *You must use our ammunition in rental guns. *You must use No ourcash ammunition value. in rental guns.

No cash value.

405 Killian Hill 405 Killian 405Road Killian Hill NWHill Road NW RoadGA NW Lilburn, 30047 Lilburn, GA Lilburn, GA 30047 30047 770.923.9810 770.923.9810 770.923.9810

   Large Inventory of   Large Guns Inventory & Ammo of  Large Inventory of Guns & Ammo  Guns Training Classes & Ammo  Training AvailableClasses  Training Classes Available  Available Gunsmith on Site  on Site  Gunsmith  Gunsmith on Site  

More than 50,000 items available on our website!

More than 50,000 items available on our website!

More than 50,000 items available on our website!

MainstreetGunsandRange.com | info@mainstreetgunsandrange.com MainstreetGunsandRange.com MainstreetGunsandRange.com || info@mainstreetgunsandrange.com info@mainstreetgunsandrange.com

Don’t get sidelined by an injury.

Whether you’re an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, every day you spend dealing with pain or injury means less time spent doing what you love.

A movement screening with a licensed physical therapist at BenchMark can identify possible risk factors for injury and help you address them before they become a problem.

Call your local BenchMark today to set up your movement screening.

2065 Grayson Hwy Ste B Grayson, GA (678) 376-0213

Our Town

455 Philip Blvd Ste 160 Lawrenceville, GA (678) 985-0238

1227 Rockbridge Rd Ste 402 Stone Mountain, GA (770) 925-9210

2050 Scenic Hwy N Ste A Snellville, GA (678) 344-7197

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 23

MeALS for h eM a l tehA y LaSp pfe toi tre s h eM a l tehA y LaSp pfe toi tre s h e a l t h y a p p e t i t e s healthy appetites Only

170 calories, 5g fat*

Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola Only and Coffee Only

170 calories, 5g fat*

170 calories, fat* Only Greek Yogurt5g Parfait with Granola and Coffee 170 calories, 5g fat* Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Coffee Greek Yogurt Parfait with Granola and Coffee

Only

420 calories, 10gOnlyfat* 420 calories, 10g fat*

Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Side Salad Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Side Salad Only & Medium Diet Lemonade & Medium Diet Lemonade 420 calories, 10g fat*Only

420 calories, 10g fat*

Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Side Salad & Medium Diet Lemonade

Grilled Chicken Sandwich, Side Salad & Medium Diet Lemonade

Some folks have a hard time choosing between ® , we believe you taste and nutrition.

Chick-fil-A Some folks have a At hard time choosing between ® Sometaste folks have a hard time between shouldn’t have to make thatchoosing choice. fact, we , weIn believe you and nutrition.

At Chick-fil-A ® like to think that food be good for you. shouldn’t have togood make thatcan choice.

Inbelieve fact, we you , we taste and nutrition.

At Chick-fil-A Some folks a hard time choosing Nutrition never tasted so like to have think that good food can begood! good between you. shouldn’t have to make that choice.

In for fact, we ® Nutrition never tasted so good! taste and nutrition. At Chick-fil-A , we believe you

like to think that good food can be good for you. shouldn’t have to make that choice. In fact, we Nutrition never tasted so good! like to think that good food can be good for you.

Nutrition never tasted so good!

Chick-fil-A Lilburn (770) 925-2027 4801 Lawrenceville Hwy NW

Chick-fil-A Scenic Highway LilburnChick-fil-A Snellville (770) (770) 979-7912 (770)979-7488 925-2027 • www.chick-fil-a.com/lilburn Lilburn 1559 Scenic Hwy N 2932 Main St. W (770) 925-2027 • www.chick-fil-a.com/lilburn

Chick-fil-A Stone Mountain (770) 736-5809 5075 Stone Mountain Hwy

*Excludes condiments and dressings.© 2013 CFA Properties, Inc. All trademarks shown are the property of CFA Properties, Inc. *Excludes condiments and dressings.© 2013 CFA Properties, Inc. All trademarks shown are the property of CFA Properties, Inc.

Lilburn