The Gwinnett/Walton Community and Family Magazine
Our Town
Dec 2016/Jan 2017
Grayson l Loganville l Lawrenceville
Meet James Bortak, CFP® and Team at Wells Fargo Advisors, see story on page 5.
4 11 12 13
Up Close with Kevin Cronic of Christian Brothers Automotive Getting Schooled: Catch a Tiger at McConnell Middle School Meet Ed & Laura Long: Expedia CruiseShipCenters in Lawrenceville Making a Difference in the Community: Benchmark to Kona
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Community Spotlight: Kevin Cronic and Christian Brothers Automotive By Rachael Brice Kevin Cronic grew to love old cars, especially taking them apart and putting them back together, while growing up on a farm in rural Georgia. So it’s no surprise that decades later, he is managing an award-winning automotive shop in Grayson. A faith-based franchise, Christian Brothers Automotive began in Houston, Texas back in 1982, but has really gained momentum since the early 2000s. With 160 stores in twenty-four states, Cronic, owner and operator, is blessed to take part in one of the ten stores in the Atlanta area. Cronic and his team opened the doors to Christian Brothers Automotive in Grayson on June 27, 2011, and are excited to have just celebrated their fifth anniversary. Though Cronic believes the community is just discovering the company, he is thankful they’re still expanding. “Since our location is more remote than some of our other stores,” Cronic said, “I have a much different experience in Grayson than what a lot of other Christian Brothers’ owners go through. We can choose to be challenged by it, or we can choose to be defeated by it, but I have chosen the former,” he said, referencing Stephen Covey’s 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. Christian Brothers Automotive stands by its name as prayer and a good bit of faith go into everything they do, whether it be an inspection or emissions test, a scheduled routine maintenance checkup, an oil change, or a transmission repair. What makes the company stand out, however, is the fact that they can work on almost any make and model, even if it has been out of production for years. From wheel bearings on a boat trailer to a tack weld on a landscape truck, Cronic said if it rolls, he and his team can fix it. While fixing cars is key to the business’ success, building and cultivating relationships with their current clientele is even more important, which is why Cronic’s repeat customer ratio is between 70 – 80% per week. Servicing seventy cars a week and about 3,400 customers a year NBHA offers treatment for various TYPES OF SERVICES OFFERED is impressive, but Cronic said it’s not just about the cars – the relationships he and his team are mental health issues, including: 1. Outpatient services for children, adolescents and building are priceless and are really what the whole process is all about. adults include: • Attention Deficit Disorder “At Christian Brothers Automotive, our mission is simple – love your neighbor as yourself,” • Comprehensive Psychiatric Diagnostic Assessments he said, referencing Matthew 22:39. “Every day we strive to provide the best service to our • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity • Follow-Up Psychiatric Assessments Disorder customers as well as honest, genuine auto repairs.” • Medication Education and Management Services Not only is Cronic invested in his customers, but he and his team are also devoted to the local • Adjustment Disorders • Individual/Family/Group Psychotherapy community. They enjoy supporting local baseball and softball teams, but one of their favorite • Anger Issues • Referrals to other health care professionals days of the year is their National Service Day, which is implemented in each store across the • Anxiety Disorders • Bariatric Surgery Assessments country. On this day, Christian Brothers Automotive allows single moms who wouldn’t be able 4 Generalized Anxiety Disorder to afford a repair on their car to come and get their car serviced for free. Last year, Cronic and 4 Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 2. Inpatient/Hospital Services his team served 12 – 13 moms in need, totaling about $4,400 worth of repairs. 4 Post-Traumatic Stress disorder 3. Consultation Services “It’s important to let our community know what we can do,” Cronic said. “We like leaving • Behavioral Health Consultations to Employers 4 Panic Disorder the customer in control and empowering them to drive the relationship. Every day we aim to • Employee Assistance Program Services 4 Separation Anxiety Disorder give each customer a WOW experience when they walk through our doors, and supporting the • Tele-Psychiatry Services to the State of Georgia 4 Social Anxiety Disorder community in these types of ways is one step to accomplishing that goal.” various Behavioral Health Agencies. • Bipolar/Mood Disorders When Cronic isn’t busy with his team at the office, he enjoys spending time with Tricia, his • Depressive Disorders wife ofM.D. twenty-two years, and their two beautiful daughters, Katie and Carly. Mehmood Mehdi, 4 Major Depressive Disorder Christian Brothers Automotive is located at 2547 Loganville Highway in Grayson, Georgia. Board Certified Psychiatrist 4 Post-Partum Depression Contact them at (678) 820-5504. Their office is open Monday to Friday, 7:00am – 6:00pm. 4 Seasonal Affective Disorder 4 Situational Depression • Disruptive Disorders 4 Conduct Disorder 4 Oppositional Defiant Disorder • Grief Counseling • Personality Disorders • Phobias • Schizophrenia & other Psychotic Disorders • Self-Esteem • Stress Management • Mood Disorder
PAGE 4
Mehmood Mehdi, M.D. Board Certified Psychiatrist www.neurobehavior.net
367 Athens Hwy Ste 1050 Loganville, GA 30052 770-554-2999 Office
367 Athens Hwy Ste 1050, Loganville, GA678-353-6979 30052 Fax 770-554-2999 Office • 678-353-6979 Fax www.neurobehavior.net 1026 Twelve Oaks Drive Ste A, Watkinsville, GA 30677 706-521-0999 Office • 770-675-6390 Fax
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On the Cover: Community Spotlight: Meet James Bortak, CFP® By Rachael Brice Managing your personal finances can be time consuming, laborious, and challenging, and overseeing your finances can be a job in itself if done correctly. James Bortak, a Financial Advisor, First Vice President - Investments, and a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®) Professional with Wells Fargo Advisors, decided to pursue a career that would provide professional advice and guidance to help relieve the strain of personal investment planning for families and individuals. “Like anything else in life, everyone is busy doing what they do to make a living, and in order to have the time and expertise to also manage their personal finances, money, and investments, it would take a whole other life to do so,” he said. After graduating with a BA in Accounting from the University of Alabama in 1994, Bortak began his career working in the accounting department for Wachovia Bank (now Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.). He saw future opportunities for growth and development, and after three years of accounting, decided to pursue his passion – investments and working with people – which ultimately led to Bortak earning his CFP® license in 2001. He transitioned to a role with Wachovia Securities (a predecessor of Wells Fargo Advisors) in 1997 as a Financial Advisor. “I am very passionate about helping people manage their money so they can spend their time doing what they enjoy most,” Bortak said. “I try to keep the process simple to help improve and enhance my client’s situation so they’re able to achieve their goals.” Bortak’s principal clientele is comprised of Atlanta’s afflu-
ent community members. Recently, Marcus Thompson, a Registered Client Associate, joined Bortak’s team and together they serve 125 households as of 12/01/2016. Over the past twenty years, Bortak has expanded his advisory network and built numerous relationships within the investment industry and local community. He and his staff proactively keep in touch with their clients at least every ninety days, ensuring all clients are served, questions are answered, and financial plans are updated in a timely manner. Bortak sees the need for holistic planning for his clients, as many are extremely busy juggling their own lives and family responsibilities. “I enjoy serving my clients on a deeper level and providing every aspect of their financial affairs that I can,” he said. “Getting to know my clients on a personal level and learning about their families, their dreams, their goals, where they vacation, and what they enjoy doing, allows me to dig deep and provide the top level of service to fit their specific needs. With the addition of Marcus, we’re able to deepen and strengthen these relationships while we take care of our clients as they deserve.” According to a recent New York Times article, honesty tops any checklist for prospective clients searching for a financial advisor. Bortak recommends to those who are searching for an advisor to choose one they’re comfortable with and one whom they can trust. He even recommends interviewing two to three different advisors to learn about them, their background, and expertise before making a decision. “It’s important to surround yourself with people you can trust,” Bortak said. “It’s a comfort to know I am able to help people move in a good direction with their finances and
(l-r) Marcus Thomspon, James Bortak, Julius Garner remove some of the worry they may have about their future.” The Bortak family is heavily involved in the community as Bortak coaches softball, and Brandy, his wife of twenty years, coaches cheerleading. Bortak said the work/life balance isn’t easy, but extremely important. He also recognizes the value of giving back to the community and participates in outreach organizations including the Quinn House, the Heart Association, and Junior Achievement. Investments in securities and insurance products are: not FDIC-insured / no bank-guarantees / may lose value. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company.
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Our Town The Gwinnett/Walton Community and Family Magazine
— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm EndResultZ.com
Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio Cover Photographer Kerr Studio Inc. Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Web Development Webkat Design Feature Writers Daidra Annis Rachael Brice Lisa Brittain Heidi Campbell Kim Hill Tony Socci Karla Socci Somers Michelle Watson Contributing Writers Pastor Paul Ballard Bill Crane Terie Hansen Dustin Mattox Ryan T. Sauers Pam Walker Carol C. Wood
Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/Walton 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 2016-2017 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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1227 Rockbridge Road Suite 208-171 Stone Mountain, GA 30087 678-825-2049 Info@OurTownGwinnett.com
Stay Connected! OurTownGwinnett.com Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com OurTownGwinnett OurTownGwinnett OurTownGwinnett
IN THIS ISSUE 4 Community Spotlight: Kevin Cronic and Christian Brothers Automotive 5 On the Cover: Community Spotlight: Meet James Bortak, CFP® 7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 8 Character Counts: Up Close with NG3 and Grayson High School 10 Crane’s Corner: Political Insights from Bill Crane 10 Travel Tales: Tips For Festive Season! 11 Getting Schooled: Catch a Tiger at McConnell Middle School 12 Getting to Know Ed and Laura Long: Expedia CruiseShipCenters in Lawrenceville 13 Making a Difference: Benchmark to Kona 15 PRC of Gwinnett Offers Hope for Women in Crisis 16 Community Spotlight: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 17 The Beverage Superstore of Grayson Offers Tasting Opportunities on Thirsty Thursdays 18 Business Sense: Saving Money is a Client’s Top Desire. Or, Is It? 19 More Than Meets the Eye: Dr. Thomas Mahon, Mountain View Eye Associates 20 Photo of the Month 20 Pet Perch: Domestic Cats Causing Extinction 21 Chaplains’s Corner: Being Thankful 22 Learning Lessons: How to Calm and Comfort a Stressed-Out Student PAGE 6
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From the Publisher:
DEC Now is a
One Man’s Opinion By Ryan T. Sauers
great time to raise your soil’s
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Can you believe it’s December? This year seems to have flown by. Thanksgiving has come and gone, and now Christmas and the New Year are nearly upon us. I love this country and our freedom and the ability to “agree to disagree.” Moreover, I also love my family and friends, and our community. With that said, I don’t live under a rock. I am quite aware of the “seeming divides” that are being reported over and over on multiple news outlets. However, I don’t agree with most of these reports. I view them as “news” focused on sowing discord by sharing “extreme views” to grow their audience. We must always look for the best in each other, giving another a chance to be human beings first, and not buy into the “media hype.” I challenge you to dig deep, do your own research, reflect on your own worldview (what you truly believe), and don’t settle for letting the sensationalistic media “tell you” what to believe. There are wonderful things going on everywhere, including right here in this community. Are they often reported? No. So, I challenge you to help me get the news out. Share a copy of this magazine. You will find nothing but positive news, events, and happenings that should encourage the reader. Keep a “thankful mode” as we enter this new year – a year fresh for new beginnings. I want to share how much I appreciate the Our Town community. I am thankful for the Our Town family, friends, staff, and partners. Both Our Town monthly magazines continue to grow in a rapid manner. In addition, we have exciting plans for 2017 and beyond with our media and communications firm EndResultZ. Our expanded (online and offline) communications reach will allow us to offer our partners more offerings and services. So, stay connected as… here we “grow again.” I wish you a safe and blessed holiday season. I thank you for your role in our journey day by day, month by month, and year by year. We could not do it without you. So, until next year, and as always: this is my town, your town, Our Town!
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from ProMotion Physical Therapy and The Wellness Studio at ProMotion Gwinnett Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker Photograph by Richard Calmes
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PAGE 7
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Pork •• Ribs Ribs •• Brisket Brisket • Chicken Pork • Ribs Pork • Brisket • Chicken Up Chicken • TurkeyStew Brunswick Brunswick Stew Brunswick Stew
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And I love the opportunities we’ve had to read the Bible and share Scriptures with each other WT: It has changed our team environment and made it better. I feel more open to change and better connected to my team. I also love the service opportunities that we get to do as a huddle.
WT: Mainly it’s the weekly group that we call Huddle. I’ve always liked Huddle. I feel like TUESDAYS: it’s a good thing forEntree us guys to come together and ask questions and understand each other. It w/Every Adult KIDS$EAT FREE! helps us to put our thoughts toward a common goal. All Day Tuesday combine w/other coupons or discount Cannot combine w/other coupons or discount cards. Food only. w/Coupon. Cannot cards. Exp 11/5/16 combine w/other coupons or discount cards. Exp 11/5/16
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Our Town
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Crane’s Corner: Political Insights from Bill Crane By Bill Crane My first presidential election as a voter was 1980. Incumbent President Jimmy Carter survived a bruising presidential primary challenge from Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy running from his party’s left. Sound familiar? Kennedy eventually endorsed Carter, but many of his supporters never got on board with the Peanut Brigade. Carter was challenged by former California Governor Ronald Reagan, and though still struggling with the Iran Hostage Crisis and a weak economy, Carter looked good for re-election until the debates. Reagan’s performance and public reaction shifted the campaign’s direction and momentum. Reagan won in a landslide, carrying all but three states. Pundits and the Washington elite all but pronounced Reagan a simpleton and actor with few other talents or skills, and some of his more jingoistic speeches caused many to feel that he would have a fast trigger and itchy finger for using America’s nuclear arsenal. Reagan instead began the negotiations for the SALT I and SALT II Treaties, which eventually reduced the nuclear arsenals of both the United States and the former Soviet Union, and later Russia. Two decades later, in a hard-fought contest between Vice President Al Gore and Texas Governor George Bush, Bush was portrayed, particularly in pop culture by outlets like Saturday Night Live, as a simpleton cowboy despite degrees from Harvard and Yale and two successful terms as governor of the nation’s second largest state. The Bush/Gore contest was decided ultimately by the US Supreme Court, ending recounts in Florida where Bush’s brother was governor and a Republican Secretary of State oversaw the recounts. Bush won the Electoral College by only five votes, and Gore the popular vote by more than 500,000. And again for weeks the pundit class and many political opponents said that Bush’s presidency would always be greeted with an asterisk or comma, questioning his legitimacy in office. And yet, less than nine months later, as the nation came together in the challenging aftermath of the terrorist attacks of 9/11, Bush’s approval ratings rose above 90 percent. We need to see more of the moments of civility and statesmanship, as we witnessed during the brief White House meeting between President Obama and President-elect Trump. It would be helpful if both of these men, as well as Secretary Clinton, were to issue statements requesting/ directing their supporters to stand down and stop protesting or questioning the legitimacy of the Trump victory. An online petition – claiming the signatures of more than 3 million – is requesting that unbound Trump delegates to the Electoral College switch their votes to Hillary Clinton. This would of course require a shift of more than fifty of the GOP’s most stalwart donors and officials in probably as many as a dozen states to disregard the popular vote of their respective state. Georgia and many other southern states, following the states’ rights mantra of old, do not bind their electors by law to follow the popular vote. A similar effort was undertaken during the 2000 election, when flipping two electors would have changed the outcome in favor of VP Gore. No electors flipped. It is not a coincidence that we end our year and election season heading into the holidays. Though not the time established by our Founding Fathers, the General Election often begins the end of each year with a divided electorate. But I promise, before the Electoral College convenes, or certainly before Inauguration Day, I will be able to pair those words (President… Trump) together without gagging. Perhaps we should all just practice that a bit as we head into the holidays. God bless you and yours. Crane is senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns a full-service communications consulting firm. More information at www.CSICrane.com
Travel Tips For Festive Season!
MY
CY
By Pam Walker
CMY
Like it or not, we are less than a month from the holiday season. The period from Thanksgiving through the New Year is called the “FESTIVE SEASON” by the travel world, and hotels, airlines, and cruises are usually all sold out by now. But wait – not this year! For whatever reason – the election, world tensions, hurricanes and who knows what else – travel suppliers are begging for your business. It is still possible to find availability on a ship cruising the Galapagos Islands, or at a hotel or all-inclusive resort in the Caribbean. Fall is the time for those in the travel profession to attend annual travel conferences. This year, travel suppliers were begging for business over Festive Season. Cruises in the Galapagos have dropped tour company bookings due to low sales and opened up even the best ships to holiday travel. Continued on page 20
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Getting Schooled: Catch a Tiger at McConnell Middle School By Daidra Annis Anyone who has a middle-schooler knows that those years can be some of the most challenging. It’s safe to say that the middle schools that serve our community have their work cut out for them. McConnell Middle School, part of the Archer High School Cluster, has been given the opportunity to educate 1,850 students this academic year, and they’ve figured out a way to both engage students and reward their positive behavior that will help them throughout their academic career and in life. How do they do it? Through their P.B.I.S. program, which stands for Positive Behavior Intervention Support. The program centers around the T.I.G.E.R. Traits of Trust, Integrity, Growth, Effort, and Respect. The program rewards students who exemplify these traits in their everyday activities with Tiger Tokens, which can be exchanged in the school store and used as entries to raffle drawings. Popcorn Friday, and Cookie Friday are a few of the yummy rewards that Tiger Tokens can bestow upon its earners. The students themselves can “Catch a Tiger” and nominate a classmate when they see T.I.G.E.R. traits exhibited. Once a month, one student per grade level is chosen from the nominees and rewarded with a goody bag that includes things like spirit wear and free tickets to school sponsored activities like Skate Night or the school dance. Another incentive is the “Student of the Day” honor. For this recognition, each teacher at McConnell is able to choose one student as their student of the day, and then once a month, all nominated students and their parents have breakfast with Principal Clent Chatham. The highlight of the year is Top Tiger Time, hosted by the
school each May since the 2013-2014 school year. This event is for students who have had no conduct cuts for the entire school year – quite an accomplishment for 11-14 year olds! For Top Tiger Time, the students have lunch outside for a full hour, where they enjoy music and games on the sunny lawn. One of the school counselors brings his mobile grill and cooks up burgers and hot dogs. Amazingly, McConnell boasts twothirds participation in the annual picnic. T.I.G.E.R. Traits also reap rewards outside the four walls of McConnell Middle School. Once each semester, every teacher gets to give one McConnell/McDonald’s certificate to a deserving student. The McDonald’s in Grayson picks one night each semester where these students are honored as new members of the McConnell/McDonald’s club, which includes the student’s choice of any value meal. Twice a year, McConnell hosts a “Round-Up” to collect some of the Tiger Tokens back from the students. The roundup allows students to enter raffles for prizes like Dave and Buster’s Gift Cards, with the grand prize this year being a Chrome Book. Each Tiger Token is an entry in the raffle, so the more one has, the better the chances to win! But it’s not just the students who get rewarded for exemplary performance. Teachers and staff receive Tiger Tickets – a positive note when they are observed going above and beyond in their daily activities. Each quarter teachers use their tickets for auction items like spirit wear, gift cards, and perhaps the best prize of all, having an administrator teach one of their class periods. The mission of McConnell Middle School is “to provide a positive, stimulating, safe environment which focuses on learning, the application of knowledge, and the acquisition of lifelong skills.” Through the P.B.I.S program, McConnell
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Getting to Know Ed and Laura Long: Expedia CruiseShipCenters in Lawrenceville Planning a vacation has just become a lot easier for families in Lawrenceville. With the desire and expertise to help their community find the right vacation, local entrepreneurs and husband and wife duo, Ed and Laura Long have opened a new Expedia CruiseShipCenters franchise at 3157 Sugarloaf Parkway. Expedia CruiseShipCenters – part of the Expedia group family of brands – offers cruise vacations and much more through its 220 locations across North America. Customers are able to choose from numerous vacation possibilities over land, sea and air, including customized trips, coach & rail tours and insurance – all at Expedia prices. In addition to the research and booking features available on their local website, Ed and Laura along with their team offer personal vacation consultations in person, through email or over the phone, so customers always have the freedom to book when, where and how they choose. “We look forward to working with the community to help them find the cruise or vacation that is a perfect fit for their needs,” Laura Long owner of Expedia CruiseShipCenters in Lawrenceville said. “The Internet can become overwhelming when trying to plan a vacation. With so many options available, customers really want to speak to an expert. Our team of Vacation Consultants are experts at explaining the differences among ships and cruise lines to help our customers find the vacation that’s perfect for them.” Expedia CruiseShipCenters Vacation Consultants are provided with extensive training and marketing support which allows them to become navigators of spectacular vacation experiences, even with no travel experience. “We are actively recruiting Vacation Consultants to work full-time or part-time, as a home based agent or from our retail center,” claims Long. Our agents have the freedom and flexibility to build their travel business on their own terms with the power of Expedia behind them.” Ed Long has spent the vast majority of his career in the healthcare industry. His experience is in nuclear medicine where he worked as a dialysis clinic administrator and a radiology administrative director in the greater Lawrenceville area. Wife and business partner, Laura, has spent the past 15 years in the educational system working with special needs children. Prior to that, Laura began as a flight attendant and recruiter for Eastern Airlines. Recently, Ed and Laura decided to make their passion for travel and entrepreneurship a reality when their son was diagnosed with a retinal degenerative eye disease, Choroideremia, in his early college years. The extremely rare disease results in the permanent loss of vision. After 32 years of marriage, the Longs have traveled the globe in search of a treatment for their son. Ed and Laura have now come together to open an Expedia CruiseShipsCenter in order for their son to find success in the workplace and leave a lasting legacy for two children should they need it. According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the industry shows no signs of slowing down, with nearly 24 million passengers expected to sail in 2016, a dramatic increase from 15 million just 10 years prior. For more information visit www.cruiseshipcenters. com/Lawrenceville or call (470)282-0227.
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Making a Difference: Benchmark to Kona By Michelle Watson Benchmark Physical Therapy is a company committed to serving the community. Whether it is a national/international cause or a local concern, the staff dedicates its time and effort to improving the lives of those around them. Robert Cornett, the regional director for Gwinnett County, says that each Benchmark location serves the local community in some way. The staff may decide to sponsor a child or family for Christmas, or they may raise money for a local food bank. Whatever they decide to do, you can be sure it will benefit charities in the areas of health, homelessness, or hunger. Employees are given eight hours a year to donate to the charity of their choice. And, the company gets behind at least one major national campaign per year. Clearly, giving to the community is the company’s greatest mission. In 2016, Benchmark agreed to help Cornett raise funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS). He had been approached by LLS and asked to participate on the charity’s behalf in Kona, the Ironman World Championship. Cornett had become involved with LLS when his two-year-old daughter, Norah, was diagnosed with Type B Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia, a blood cancer that would take two years of fighting before little Norah was healed. Kona only receives the top one percent in each qualifying triathlon, but a few slots are reserved for non-profit participants. These slots are not granted without meeting some criteria. One thing they asked Cornett to do was raise $50,000. He talked with the executives at Benchmark who assured him they were behind him. The campaign was named “Benchmark to Kona,” with the idea that it was not just Cornett going to Kona, but the whole company, too. When the $50,000 mark was reached, Cornett upped the goal to $75,000, and then he raised it again. Along the way they made tool kits so that other clinics could learn how to raise their own money and how to donate to LLS. Currently, they have raised nearly $230,000, making them the largest fundraiser in the country for LLS, and the largest single fundraising effort in both Georgia and the Ironman World Championships. Cornett is now the chair for Beyond the Mark Service, the committee that directs the corporation-wide fundraising efforts, and he says they will support another non-profit with the same gusto in 2017. Cornett wants to serve others because he knows how much he has been given. Quoting Luke 12:48, he reminds us, “‘For everyone to whom much is given, of him shall much be required.’” He has been given much, by the community, and by the doctors and medical staff at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta who took such great care of Norah. Gwinnett County is indeed blessed to have Cornett and Benchmark in its midst as they strive to bless the community in unprecedented ways. More information about Benchmark at http://bmrp.com/benchmarkpt/. More information about the Kona campaign at http://events.lls.org/pages/ga/benchmarktokona/rcornett
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PRC of Gwinnett Offers Hope for Women in Crisis By Kim Hill The Pregnancy Resource Center of Gwinnett (PRCG) is a life-affirming medical clinic and a safe haven for women who find themselves facing an unexpected pregnancy. “We offer medically accurate information on abortion, parenting, and adoption,” says Executive Director Robin Mauck. The clinic provides a free pregnancy test and ultrasound so women will have specific information to make an informed decision. “But of course our mission is to save that baby’s life and to save that girl’s life,” says Ms. Mauck. In the counseling rooms, handmade booties and caps are offered as baby’s first gift, while the ultrasound gives a first opportunity to
see the living baby. “So many girls are just uneducated,” Ms. Mauck explains. “They really don’t know.” PRCG has a free program called HOPE that offers prenatal, life-skill, and nutrition classes, as well as nurse consultations. For each class they take, women earn “baby bucks” that can be spent in the clinic’s baby boutique to obtain maternity clothing and baby items until the baby is a year old. Classes are offered in a group setting which provides a built-in support group. Another PRCG program called IMPACT has been taught in health classes ar Gwinnett County Public Schools. PRCG has also developed a strong relationship with Georgia Gwinnett College, sharing information through its newsletter and at orientation. In its 25th year, PRCG is fully funded by donations from individuals, churches, and organizations, and has three fundraisers each year: an annual banquet, the Gwinnett Life Run presented by the Chick-fil-A store on Scenic Highway, and the newest, called Gideon Strong, where men are challenged to join the fight to save babies by pledging monthly support. PRCG has two websites, one for the community and the other for patients. Each website has a “Get Involved” tab for those wishing to volunteer, but if time is an issue, prayer warriors are always needed. PRCG offers love and support to all who walk through its doors. “I feel like God gives us all a passion; and this may not be your passion,” says Ms. Mauck. “But if you have a heart for saving babies, come see us, because we have a place you can serve.”
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Chris Owens, Area Director for the Georgia Chapter of American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), is working hard to bring awareness to the state of Georgia and the Gwinnett and metro Atlanta area. As a psychiatric nurse, Owens had a long history that included a background and interest in suicide prevention. In 2004, she was hired to help organize a local Out of the Darkness Walk, an annual walk held across the country to bring suicide awareness to local communities. Shortly afterward, Owens became the area director and helped to start the chapter. Founded in 1987, AFSP now has 85 chapters throughout all 50 states. They provide various programs for medical personnel, educators, students, and families, as well as fund research and do advocacy. Georgia AFSP has several annual Out of the Darkness walks which occur from Labor Day weekend to just before Thanksgiving, when they end with a day to honor survivors of loss to suicide. In 2015 the Atlanta Out of the Darkness Walk raised $230,000 and hosted over 1,600 participants. In the spring, the focus switches to various events on college campuses and a major annual fundraising event. In March, Field Advocates from around the state come together for a day at the capitol. It is a day to meet with legislators and educate them about suicide prevention as well as to advocate for a mental health policy. The Georgia chapter of AFSP has put their More Than Sad program in place in every public school in Georgia. Private schools may request the program free of charge as well. More Than Sad can be used to educate staff and faculty of schools so they can recognize signs of depression and warning signs of suicide. There is a separate module specifically for high schoolers and their parents. Other education programs include a half-day program called safeTALK and a one-hour program called Talk Saves Lives. According to the AFSP website, suicide is ranked 11th in causes of death in Georgia. It is the 2nd leading cause of death for young adults ages 25-34 (https:// afsp.org/about-suicide/state-fact-sheets/#Georgia). Owens believes the reasons for the suicide rates in our state and nation are a lack of understanding the signs, what to do about signs, and communication about the issue. Although some suicides can happen without warning, most of the time people do show warning signs. These can often, someone planning or contemplating suicide will talk about it, they may increase drug and alcohol use, or they may feel anxiety, depression, irritability, or even rage. Being educated about the issue will go a long way toward prevention. Together, we can make a difference. More information at www.afsp/georgia or www.suicidepreventionlifeline..
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The Beverage Superstore of Grayson Offers Tasting Opportunities on Thirsty Thursdays By Heidi Campbell For over four years, the Beverage Superstore of Grayson has been the premier package store for customers seeking both high end and value-priced spirits, wines, and beers. The business, owned by Richard Tucker, strives to be the leader in customer service and employee knowledge, as they help patrons select beverages for everything from gifts to large scale events. The Superstore’s selection of beverages is certainly part of their “super” status. They have expanded their craft beer selection, now dedicating four cooler doors to regional beers including those from Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina. Their liquor selections don’t just specialize in large name brands; the shelves are also lined with a vast selection of craft spirits ranging from small batch bourbons, aged rums, flavored vodkas, and specialty liqueurs. The store now hosts a weekly event called “Thirsty Thursdays.” From 5:30-7:30 p.m., participants can pay $5.00 to sample a variety of six to eight beers or wines, depending on the week, from a particular distributer or supplier. Thirsty Thursdays has been a hit with locals, as well as with local businesses. The event not only allows the store to share new products with customers, but it allows them to give back to the community as well. One week in October, for example, the store donated all of the proceeds to support a local woman’s breast cancer walk. According to employee Claire Addison, “These Thursdays are really casual; people can just come and go. We feature a different supplier each week, and try to find beers or wines that are unique, esoteric, off the beaten path, but still a good value.” The store also hosts an annual holiday show each December. This event, which takes place adjacent to their tasting room, is enjoyed under a giant, heated tent. They select thirty different wines from five different distributers and offer a great spread of appetizers and snacks. “It’s gotten so popular,” shares Addison, “that we have a couple local restaurants who want to partner with us on this.” Community is a focus for the store. They have booths set up at both the Grayson Blues and Brews event as well as the Gwinnett Beer Fest at Cool-Ray Field. For the last four years, they have helped raise money for the Atlanta Food Bank through the sales of select Gallo wines. Facebook followers of the Beverage Superstore have been winning prizes, as they have monthly drawings for what Addison refers to as “swag.” Prizes have included basketball goals, t-shirts, bicycles, tickets to events, and even a Budweiser recliner, complete with a built-in cooler. Future
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Southern Styles S A L O N
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By Ryan T. Sauers As I travel across the country, I am asked how important price is in the buying decision. Yes, it is a key part of the purchasing process. Note: I said “a part” not “the part.” However, if you are focusing solely (consciously or unconsciously) on saving money for clients… you are missing part of the bigger picture. You need to find ways to save them money, yes, but this should come under the value you offer. Value= price + goods/services + YOU. If you offer a ton of value… something may “cost more” but be a more viable overall option for someone… making price a non-issue or minor issue. So, in today’s world the greatest currency/resource anyone has is their TIME. You cannot get it back, cannot carry it forward, cannot make more of it, and cannot be two places at once. Do you hear many people saying “I wish I had less hours in the day?” No, you get the idea.
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Therefore, we must focus on making every minute meaningful. We must become more human in approach and focus on the person we are talking to not at the numerous distractions around us. This article applies to all human beings no matter what your job title is or what industry you work in. It is about helping our clients and providing them much needed headache and stress relief. To aid them, we must provide true value. This value must be centered on helping them with their top desire… (not saving money) … but the need for more time. So, begin thinking of ways you can you help clients free up time so they are under less stress. You will be amazed at the results. Also, begin to study the words people say… and you will see what I mean. People say (among many other similar things): I am slammed; buried; swamped; snowed under; drowning; covered up etc. Ok, there you go… just a few expressions to think about. Folks, that’s the mindset of most people I know. If you understand this mindset you can solve these issues… and make their lives easier. You can save them TIME. And in turn, they win and YOU WIN. Saving money then becomes a footnote under everything else in the value proposition. Ryan T. Sauers is President of Sauers Consulting Strategies and is both a best-selling author and national speaker. More info at: SauersConsulting.com
PAGE 18
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K- 8TH GRADE Serving Families Since 1986 • Catholic Values • Community Service
More Than Meets the Eye: Dr. Thomas Mahon, Mountain View Eye Associates By Lisa Brittain Dr. Thomas Mahon, Optometrist, currently serves his patients’ eye care needs at his MountainView Eye Associates office in Snellville. While a recent interview with Dr. Mahon revealed a highly professional office environment and staff, his commitment to family was definitely the theme of his conversation. Currently Dr. Mahon and his wife, family physician Dr. Lan Mahon, share the medical office building that they built together. When their daughter, Sophie, was a small child, the couple decided the shared work space would be the best way to mesh their family lives with their medical practices. Sophie is now pursuing a nursing career at the University of South Carolina. Family lunch has long been valued by both Drs. Mahon. Their offices are closed while the couple has typically spent this time catching up on life. Accordingly, Dr. Mahon gave credit to his exceptional office staff for their care of his patients, doing whatever was best for each person, as well as being attentive in order to maintain the high priority of daily family time. In many ways, Dr. Mahon has followed in the footsteps of his father, pediatrician Dr. Tom Mahon, Sr., by sharing his father’s passion for serving and caring for people. The well-known and beloved Snellville pediatrician retired in 2010 after thirty-six years of caring for thousands of children and their parents. Dr. Mahon stated, “His standards set mine high and hard wired me to want to do my very best in taking care of my patients with a genuine concern for their well-being.” He recalled his father’s attention to detail, late night emergencies, and early hospital rounds, with people always being top priority. “Rarely a day goes by that I don’t encounter at least one person from a family that was cared for by my father and sings his praises,” he said. Growing up, Dr. Mahon had a strong affinity for the sciences, particularly biology, and together with the family value and priority of caring for others, he pursued optometry. “Eye care is very rewarding in that you can potentially make such a difference for someone in everyday life by protecting or enhancing their vision,” he stated. The value of family has obviously played a major role in the development of MountainView Eye Associates. In response to the question, “How do you pay it forward?” Dr. Mahon mentioned one of his favorite charities, Samaritan’s Purse, as well as his commitment to his family’s local church. He has also participated in giving free eye exams and vision screenings within the community. Additionally, the MountainView staff has consistently maintained a sensitivity to patients who may be facing financial hardship. While the Drs. Mahon team has not yet served on a medical mission’s trip, Dr. Mahon indicated they might add that to their bucket list. Recently empty nesters, the couple plans to travel more, including some hiking and kayaking, but they still value time with several beloved nephews and nieces, as well as their two labradoodles. With Dr. Thomas Mahon, there’s much more to him and MountainView Eye Associates than meets the eye -- there’s a lot of heart!
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Travel Tips Continued from page 10 All-inclusives and hotels in the Caribbean that normally have a ten night minimum during this seasonal time are now giving deals like “Stay for 4 and Pay for 3.” They have dropped the mandatory number of nights and are eagerly hoping that special packages and bargain rates will lure folks to fill their accommodations during the holidays. If you haven’t done so already and thought you would be out of luck, call your local travel professional to see what they can find. You can also go online to look; however, your travel professional will know who is still begging for business and what you can expect to pay. Air travel is also still available. What with fluctuations in the marketplace and overbooking policies (yes, airlines overbook their flights by at least 15% because of last minute no-shows), you can most likely find seats and availability. It may not be on the exact date you wanted it, but there are seats available. So if you have nothing planned for Festive Season, start planning and see what you can find to enjoy that special time with family and friends! PAM WALKER is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com
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Pet Perch: Domestic Cats Causing Extinction
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By Terie Hansen
Parrot Productions
You may never think of your cuddly cat as a killer, but domestic cats are causing the extinction of other species at an alarming rate. To date thirty-three species worldwide have become extinct due to cat predation. The Stephens Island wren, one of only three flightless songbirds ever known, was discovered by lighthouse keeper David Lyall, only to be hunted to extinction by his pet cat and a number of others shortly after. While the majority of mortalities are caused by unowned cats (which include farm/barn cats, strays that are fed by humans but not granted access to habitations, cats in subsidized colonies, and cats that are completely feral), owned cats that have access to the outside also pose a large threat. It’s estimated that free-ranging domestic cats kill 1.3–4.0 billion birds and 6.3–22.3 billion mammals annually. Many owners don’t believe their cuddly kitty is a killer. A recent study from the University of Georgia attached cameras to sixty pets and found almost half were active hunters. It also revealed that they ate roadkill, lapped at sewer water, and dodged cars. Yikes! “Through the use of Kitty Cams, our research team measured cat predation on wildlife and quantified common factors threatening the health of owned free roaming cats.” To learn more visit http://www.kittycams.uga.edu/research.html How can you help? One of the easiest ways to minimize the impact that your cat may be having on local wildlife is to put a bell on its collar. This simple act can give at-risk prey a heads up that your cat is close. Keeping your cat inside at night can reduce kills by 50%. Spaying and neutering helps eliminate the possibility of your cat adding to the feral population. To take it a step further, trap, spay/neuter, bell, and release neighborhood feral cats. Every little bit helps to preserve other important species inhabiting our world.
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Terie Hansen is Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More information at www. gooddogcoaching.com
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Chaplain’s Corner: Being Thankful
We are the first in the country to create a Ninja Kids Team League. Call us or visit http://xoleague.siplay.com/site/ to find out more.
By Pastor Paul Ballard There is a laser-like focus on being thankful around Thanksgiving. It is helpful. It is good. What happens after Thanksgiving, though? We begin the sprint toward Christmas. Shopping, gifts, parties, activities, eggnog, decorations. The list goes on and on. This is a reminder that this week, even today, to slow down and be thankful. I mean really slow down, take a few minutes, and be still, and be thankful. Today, drink deeply from the well of grace. Be thankful. Today, with the deepest humility and the greatest joy, remember the gift of your salvation. Be thankful. Remember this odd relationship – a God who needs nothing and a people who have nothing to give. Be thankful. Righteousness given and forgiveness granted. Be thankful. Thanks be to God for common grace gifts poured out on us. What are common grace gifts? A spectacular sunrise or a beautiful sunset, a cool evening, warm sunshine, a good meal, faithful friends, laughter, family, holding hands with your spouse, watching your kids play, and many other simple and yet profound blessings that God graciously gives to us. The problem is many of us instead of being humbly grateful are grumbly hateful! A little girl was saying her blessing at school. Some of her friends made fun of her and said, “You’re going to eat it anyway, why do you say a blessing?” She thoughtfully said, “That’s true, but things just taste better when I am thankful!” When you go through life with a thankful attitude, life just taste better! Remember, above all, we should be thankful people for all that our heavenly Father has done for us.
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Learning Lessons: How to Calm and Comfort a Stressed-Out Student By Carol C. Wood Recently, a parent asked me what he could do to calm down his academically stressed-out daughter who cared almost too much about her school grades. Following is my response and some recommendations: • Remind your student that if he/she has worked to the best of his/her ability and acted in a responsible way, then this is enough for you. Grades are not as important as effort, level of responsibility, and accountability. • Reassure them you are not disappointed in them if they have tried their best. You would be surprised how many students have cried in my office and confided in me that they are stressed because they do not want to disappoint their parents. Some students will even stop trying in school because they believe that nothing they do is ever good enough for their mom or dad. • Encourage your student to take a course load that aligns with his/her own academic and
career goals and abilities. Have realistic expectations based on academic levels of achievement. • Remember, your children are different from you, and it is important to accept, appreciate, and encourage their differences. Allow and encourage them to express and pursue their own career interests and objectives. This will foster increased confidence, self-esteem, and motivation. • Assure your student that you are willing to locate a trained educational professional to teach him/her efficient and effective study skill methods and/or course content. Doing so will send the message that your student is worth the investment of your time, energy, and money. • DO NOT compare your children to one another or to other students academically or in any other way. Rather, recognize them as the individuals they are and applaud their admirable and positive traits. • Encourage your children to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses only in academic areas in which they excel and/or have the greatest interest. Additionally, encourage your student to take no more than two AP courses during any given semester. These college level classes can become an overwhelming source of stress for a high school student when trying to juggle the study demands and time requirements of other athletic and extracurricular activities. • Find activities for the family to participate in on weekends that provide fun and enjoyment. Doing so will reinforce that family is important, will enrich relationships with parents and siblings, and will help put in perspective the balance between quality of life and character building and academics. • Provide and support opportunities for the student to participate in some sort of physical exercise which will allow the student to reduce anxiety and increase endorphin levels. Also, provide and support opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, such as drama and art, since doing so can provide a therapeutic emotional outlet. • Provide opportunities for your student to enrich and practice his/her faith. Doing so will help him/her keep priorities in perspective, and provide a source of strength, comfort, promise, and hope. Carol Wood is Owner of Total Learning Concepts. More information at http://www.totallearningconcepts.com/
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Ruben Diaz, M.D. Interventional Physiatrist Board Certified in PM&R Board Certified in Pain Medicine
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Don’t let this...
...keep you from enjoying this! The holidays are the perfect time to connect with family and friends, but that can be difficult to do when you’re in pain. The licensed physical therapists at BenchMark are musculoskeletal experts who can quickly gauge the cause of your pain and develop a program for your quick recovery. You can’t afford to wait until the holidays are over. Contact your local BenchMark clinic today. BUFORD I-85 • (770) 271-4413 GRAYSON • (678) 376-0213 LAWRENCEVILLE • (678) 985-0238 LILBURN • (770) 925-9210 SNELLVILLE • (678) 344-7197
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TENNIS • GOLF • SWIMMING • DINING • SOCIAL OUR FAMILY MEMBERSHIP JUST GOT•BIGGER AND TENNIS • GOLF • SWIMMING DINING • BETTER! SOCIAL Be one big happy family at Summit Chase! GREAT FACILITIES.GREAT FAMILIES.GREAT TIMES! Add your grandchildren for free!
Be one big happy family at Summit Chase! Year round golf, tennis, and swimming programs for grandchildren the entire family. Add your for free!
Family, Corporate and Individual Memberships
Year round golf, tennis, and swimming programs for the entire family. NO INITIATION FEE
Family, Corporate and Individual Memberships
Give the gift of membership and start building your legacy today!
NO INITIATION FEE YOUR FAMILY BELONGS HERE!
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For monthly membership special, additional information or to schedule a facility tour, contact Carol Sapp or Charlene Adams.
For monthly membership special, additional information or to schedule a facility tour, contact Carol Sapp Zamzow.
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