DECEMBER 2021: (BLUE) Our Town Gwinnett Monthly Magazine for Gwinnett/NE Dekalb

DECEMBER 2021 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

Up Close with Karen Lickay and team, see story on page 5.

7 8 14 18

Making a Difference: A Whole Lot of Christmas Shines Bright Chaplain’s Corner: Start 2022 with Purpose!

Erin Thompson of Brookwood High: Named Teacher of the Year Trickum Middle School’s Aris Randle: Named 2021 REACH Scholar

Scan to Read Digital Edition6

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

(770) 498-0329

Hours Of Operation: Tuesday - Friday 9am-10pm Saturday 8am-11pm Sunday 10am-9pm Closed Monday

December 16th, Thursday at 7 p.m.

December 19th, Sunday at 2 and 6 p.m.

Teams of Two • Materials Provided Holiday Snacks! • Winner Prizes!

You Keep The House!

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Dr. John Simmons and Dr. Robert French combine a blend of experience, wisdom and fresh new knowledge to affordably serve our patients with healthy, beautiful smiles.

Our experienced team provides 5 star service, personalized care, and an extraordinary commitment to your health and well-being.

Please join our family by scheduling a new patient exam!

Before

After

H e a lt H y • B e a u t i f u l • i n s p i r e d PAGE 2

John W. Simmons, IV, DMD, PC Robert J. French, DDS

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Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Over 30 years of helping people with their money

Invest in yourself this Christmas

Make time to review your retirement plan We can help with the following and more: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Financial and retirement planning Intergenerational planning Investment allocation for long-term growth potential Financial protection for dependents Planning for potential incapacity Determining when you can retire Maximizing your existing 401k/403b/457b Retirement withdrawal advice Estate Planning/Trust Planning Long-term care Disability & life insurance Medicare IRA/Roth contributions Timing of Social Security And more.

Advisors with the experience and qualifications you need, with a staff to deliver the customer service you expect.

Put this team to work for you!

Take action to plan for your financial future. Call 770.931.1414 or visit www.RogerSGreen.com to schedule your complimentary telephone or Zoom consultation today.

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Investment Advisor Representative offering securities & advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial, Gwinnett Tech & Cetera Advisors are not affiliated. Awards are not to be considered a guarantee of future results, nor as an endorsement by any client. Best of Gwinnett and Best of the Best winners are chosen via voting and editors’ input, & opinions are vetted with the use of other available information. Pinnacle award rankings are based on growth, revenue, community service, & other criteria. Barron’s: based on total assets (AUM), revenue, & other factors.

Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 3

2021 babies are almost gone!

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We take pride in providing “pets” not just parrots to educated customers.

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Offering all parrot/bird supplies at wholesale prices. We sell hand fed BABY PARROTS and cockatiels. Please call 770-986-0661 or visit fancyfeathersstore.com.

Featuring Zupreem, Pretty Bird and Dr. D’s pelleted diets, laAvian seed diets along with our own mix, Fancy Feathers, of seeds specialized for parrots, cockatiels, parakeets, finches and Gouldian finches.

New Store in Norcross Scan Me

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Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

On the Cover: Choose Your Own Homebuying Adventure with Karen Lickay

By Kristen Eleveld

If you had to leave your friends, family, and even your home behind to accomplish your greatest dream, would you do it? For local realtor Karen Lickay, the answer is yes – because Karen is all about hard work and accomplishing her goals. Nearly twenty-two years ago, she moved from Buenos Aires, Argentina to pursue her academic and professional goals. Now, she has become a household name for many home buyers and sellers who will return to her again and again.

“It was very hard to move to the United States,” said Karen. “I have a bachelor’s degree in International Relations, but it was difficult to find work in Argentina, so I decided to make a change.”

While Karen initially moved to pursue work in a field related to international diplomacy, she soon found herself interested in another popular field: flipping homes. This was at the height of home investing in 2002, and Karen decided to educate herself on learning more about the process of buying, repairing, and selling a home. So she went where all of us go to learn a little more – the book store.

While she was perusing some titles on investing in homes, another shopper noticed her interest and asked her some questions. By the end of their conversation, Karen had a new career she wanted to pursue – becoming a realtor.

Her initial interest in earning her real estate license was centered around being able to represent herself in the homes she purchased to invest in and sell. However, not only did Karen discover that she liked being in real estate, she learned she was also really good at it.

Nearly two decades later, Karen is still in the real estate business, and she has become a favorite among her clients. In 2006, she also became a real estate broker, giving her even more knowledge in the real estate field. Aside from her skill in finding great homes or helping clients sell their current homes, Karen also maintains a no-nonsense policy that many of her clients find refreshing.

“I will never sweettalk somebody just to make a sale,” said Karen. “My business is all about being honest with my clients so I can give them the best benefits.”

With her clients’ well-being first on her mind, Karen has also worked to engage a broader client base by pursuing fluency in additional languages – she is currently fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian – and exploring the world around her. Her team members, Laura and Andres, are fluent in English and Spanish. Karen’s interest in language helps meet the diverse needs of the community and helps clients feel comfortable doing business with her.

Of course, travel is more than just a smart way to develop business. For Karen, travel is a way of life, and you might find her off in Iceland with the volcanos or visiting her family back home in Argentina – or anywhere in between.

“Learning different languages is another way to connect with the world,” said Karen. “It’s so important to learn about and be immersed in other cultures.”

While Karen is often found planning her next trip, she also spends a lot of time right here in Gwinnett. She has lived in Lilburn for nearly twenty years, and she and her husband, Cristian, currently reside in Old Town Lilburn where they enjoy being an active part of their community.

Whether Karen is walking her three dogs on the Greenway Trail or heading to the local hair salon, she often finds that people know her and will reach out for a quick conversation, which is something Karen is always willing to do.

Moreover, if you think Karen is limited to a love of international diplomacy and real estate, think again. Karen loves to explore archaeological sites, go dancing with her husband, enjoy some gorgeous architecture, and, of course, find new ways to change her hair, which has become a favorite Continued on page 8

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PAGE 5

Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com

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Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com

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Feature Writers K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Tana Poncsak Emily Rubin Traci Sanders Beth Volpert Johansen

Contributing Writers

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Bill Crane Rev. Dr. Rodrigo Cruz Alexis E. Frehse Terie Hansen Pam Walker

— An EndResultz Media & Communications firm www.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 2021 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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IN THIS ISSUE 5 7 7 8 9 9 10 13 14 14 15 16 16 17 18 18 19

On the Cover: Choose Your Own Homebuying Adventure with Karen Lickay From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks A Whole Lot of Christmas Shines Bright Chaplain’s Corner: Start 2022 with Purpose!

Pet Perch: Picky Eater or Spoiled Pup? Spotlight YOU: Dr. Janice Wilmot of Gwinnett Orthodontics Home Upgrades to Prepare for Holiday Guests Changing Gwinnett for Generations to Come: Meet Chad Livsey Erin Thompson of Brookwood High: Named Teacher of the Year First Look into 2022 Spotlight YOU: Jim Jenkins of Dyal Jenkins Travel Tales: On the Road Again Spotlight YOU: Roger S. Green of Green Financial Resources Holiday Traditions: What are Your Favorites?

Trickum Middle School’s Aris Randle: Named 2021 REACH Scholar Spotlight YOU: Nathan McMichael of Cutting Edge Painting One Man’s Opinion: It’s Time to Vaccinate the Children

Become an Advertising Partner: Email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

From the Publisher:

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Ryan’s Remarks

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By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

Lilburn, GA

@RyanTSauers

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Can you believe it is December? Doesn’t it seem like it was just a short time ago that we dreamed of getting to 2021 from 2020?

Wow, this year of 2021 seems to have flown by. Pandemic or not, time does not wait for anyone. Thanksgiving has come and gone, and now Christmas and the New Year are nearly upon us. I know we are ready to usher in the new year of 2022, which will be better for us.

Let us go back in time and remember (if you disagree with someone) it is okay to “agree to disagree agreeably.” We all will not and do not need to agree on everything, but we must show each other dignity, caring, and respect in our dialogue with them. I hope, as we enter this new year, we look in the mirror before tearing someone down “in thoughts or words/actions.” In the New Testament of the Bible (Matthew 7), Jesus told his followers, “Do not judge...or you too will be judged.” These are great words to follow, no matter what your religious beliefs may or may not be.

I could not be prouder of our community and the resolve and caring it has shown the past two years. It has simply been amazing to watch. There are wonderful things going on all over the place.

Are they often reported? No, but we do it and will continue to do so. So, I challenge you to help us get this positive news out. Share a copy of this magazine with another person (in print, online, digital media, social media) however you want. You will find nothing but positive news, events, and happenings that are encouraging in nature. Keep a “thankful mode” as we enter the new year of 2022 – a year fresh for new beginnings.

I am thankful for the Our Town family, friends, staff, and partners. All the Our Town monthly magazines and End Resultz Media continue to grow rapidly. In addition, we have exciting growth plans and many new offerings for 2022. For example, be on the lookout for our new TV show – the Our Town Community Show with 15-minute shows beginning in January. So please say connected as, Lord willing, here we “grow again.”

I wish you a safe and blessed holiday season and new year. 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!

A Whole Lot of Christmas Shines Bright

By Alexis E. Frehse

It’s beginning to look at lot like Christmas everywhere you go! That sentiment is definitely true at 1833 Smoke Rise Summit in Stone Mountain.

For over twenty-five years, husband and wife team Victor and Theo Economy have been decorating almost every square inch of their one-acre yard in their Smoke Rise neighborhood, The Summit. The display, appropriately named A Whole Lot of Christmas, includes a variety of themed sections, such as a working Ferris wheel, an ocean-themed display, a Disney section, a snowflake lane over the driveway, and cut-outs for fun family photos among others.

When asked what inspired him to continue to decorate and add to the display each year, Victor’s answer is simple: he loves Christmas and especially Christmas lights. In fact, he loves them so much that he begins working on the display in September (starting with string lights and other less noticeable items) and finishes with the larger plastic molds and figurines in mid-November. He also adds something new to the display each year. When asked about the new additions for 2021, he just smiles and says that it is a surprise.

Over the years, many visiting the A Whole Lot of Christmas have inquired about if and how they could donate to the display and the associated costs. While the offers have always been politely declined, it gave Victor and Theo the idea to collect on behalf of a wonderful cause. Since 2012, the Economys have collected donations for charity, and in recent years for Make-A-Wish Georgia, Continued on page 8

Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 7

A Whole Lot of Christmas Shines Bright Continued from page 7 with 100% of the donations going directly to the charity.

Their goal had always been to raise enough money to fund a wish, which normally costs about $10,000. Last year they achieved this goal and collected their highest amount ever, $11,459.90, bringing their overall total to $48,160.03 for the past 8 years.

While the official grand lighting of A Whole Lot of Christmas has historically happened on Thanksgiving night, for the past two years the lights have come on a few weeks earlier. Victor credits this to a few things: a good schedule that has been efficiently tweaked over the years, lots of wonderful help (from family, friends and neighbors), and the need for a little extra Christmas cheer! He and Theo love seeing the joy that the lights bring to people of all ages and Continued on page 19

Chaplain’s Corner: Start 2022 with Purpose!

By Rev. Dr. Rodrigo Cruz

The years 2020 and 2021 have been very intense years to say the least. Every time I look on my social media feeds for the news, something overwhelming is going on. So, I am curious to know when you watch the news and see all that is going on, what feelings come to you? Sadness? Frustration? Anger? Impotence? Or are you numb to what is going on around the world? I see the brokenness, and I can’t stop asking myself, “There has to be a purpose for me in the midst of this brokenness?” Do you think there is a purpose for you in the midst of this chaos?

My wife and I have five children (two teenagers, two in elementary school age, and a toddler). During the past couple of months, we have been trying to teach our youngest one (Jona) how to eat with a spoon.

Therefore, we sat him in a high-chair and gave him a spoon.

And as you can tell in the picture at left, he was very proud of having a spoon.

Now, the reality is that we didn’t explain him how to use the spoon, we just expected him to know how to use it.

Well, the picture (right) is a glimpse of Jona’s understanding of how to use a spoon.

He literally, put food in the spoon, and then stuck his face in the bowl. I guess the dog was more influential in his life than his four siblings.

Now the reality is that every time he does that, he gets so frustrated because he gets all dirty. So, we have been trying to explain to him over and over again how to use it properly, and what is the purpose of a spoon.

Here is the thing: if you don’t know what something’s purpose is, you are most likely going to miss using it. And if you miss using it, you are going to be frustrated.

So many of us have been frustrated, sad, or angry for the past two years in the midst of this pandemic. And the reason could be because we don’t understand what our purpose is, and by consequence we have been misusing our lives.

I’ll tell you this. The greatest joy in life, the greatest thrill in life, the greatest use of our life, is when you’re used by God to make a difference in someone else’s life. So, my hope is that in 2022 you can find your purpose in life and help make this world a little better. Merry Christmas.

Rodrigo Cruz is the Founder and Lead Pastor of The Nett Church. More information at www. thenettchurch.com.

Karen Lickay Continued from page 5 topic among her neighbors.

If you’re looking for a realtor who really does it all, you’ve found her. Give Karen Lickay a call today at (770) 776 6033 to start the next adventure of your life.

More information at karenatlantahomes.com

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Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Pet Perch: Picky Eater or Spoiled Pup?

By Terie Hansen

Is your dog a picky eater or a spoiled pup? Does your dog frequently turn its nose up at food when presented, or only eat when you top their kibble with wet food, treats, cheese, toppers, etc.?

Does your dog graze throughout the day? Do you know how much food your dog eats daily?

When dogs are born, one of their most noticeable instincts is to seek out food and eat as much as they possibly can because they don’t know when it will be available next, even if they are not hungry.

Puppies typically look as though they have voracious appetites, but they are just trying to get while the getting is good. That being said, Mom’s buffet is not open all day! She offers them time to suckle, but doesn’t lay about for them to feed when they want. She decides when it’s time.

Likewise, when you bring your new puppy home, you should set up scheduled feeding times.

Many owners unknowingly transform their dog’s natural food drive, making them into picky eaters. Much like human children, puppies go through growth spurts and slow down spurts. When they’re going through a slow down spurt, they don’t eat as much. Many owners get nervous when they see their dog is not eating much, so they leave the dog’s food bowl out all day long.

They may also begin adding things to get the dog to eat, such as cheese, chicken broth, etc.

They may even switch up foods thinking the dog no longer likes the food they’ve been feeding.

Likewise, they may be feeding too many treats.

To get your dog back to its natural (and healthier) food drive, check out the guidelines on your bag of dog food for how much you should be feeding for your dog’s size and age. If your dog is overweight, go by the weight your dog should be, not their current weight, and break that up into two feedings per day for adult dogs, or three feedings a day for puppies six months and under.

Present the food and set a timer for fifteen minutes. When the timer beeps, remove the food, regardless of how much, or little, the dog eats. Then present the food again at the next meal. When you first begin this process, they may not eat any of their food in that fifteen-minute period.

Do not be tempted to leave the food down. If they eat some of the food but not all of it, you can add to what is left over to make their serving size for the next meal. Repeat this process and in a Continued on page 14

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Spotlight YOU: Dr. Janice Wilmot of Gwinnett Orthodontics

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Our Town Gwinnett (OTG): What do you like most about being able to give back in supporting the community?

Dr. Janice Wilmot (JW): I have lived in this community since 1993 and have raised my family here. I opened my orthodontic office in 1997, and the community has supported me since day one. I love helping our kids and schools through supporting sport and academic teams, mentoring students, and giving school talks for career day and dental health programs. Gwinnett is the best!

OTG: Are there examples of ways you give back throughout the year?

JW: This past year we have not been able to go into the schools for the programs, but I did a video for a middle school career day program. The practice has also supported Breast Cancer Awareness and Paint Gwinnett Pink by making a donation for all of our patients who select pink colors for their braces in the month of October. We had over 100 patients support the cause, and we just supported the Alzheimer’s Association for the month of November with purple ties. The response was great. I see us supporting the American Heart Association with red ties next year, too. The patients get so excited to support a family member or friend, and it’s so special when they share this with our team. I love that we are like family to our patients and engaging them at a young age in good causes.

Continued on page 20

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Licensed & Insured PAGE 9

Home Upgrades to Prepare for Holiday Guests

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Many people are happy to welcome back friends and family into their homes again. In anticipation of the holiday season, you might consider updating your house now, so entertaining is a joy in the many months of celebration to come.

Home improvements that add function and support when entertaining is key. Whether you’ll be hosting a grand holiday party with out-of-town guests or an intimate affair with local loved ones, these top improvements will prepare your home for holiday merriment.

1) Refresh the Fireplace The quintessential holiday gathering always seems to be set around a warm and welcoming fireplace. If you have one in your home, consider getting maintenance done now before the holiday rush. A tune-up, chimney cleaning, and glass-door cleaning will ensure your fireplace is ready to inspire guests to cozy up and create memories.

Beyond proper functioning, you can also update your fireplace to create a new aesthetic. If the surrounding brick, rock, or tile is dated, consider special masonry or tile paint that can help you

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refresh the materials with a contemporary neutral color such as gray, beige, or white. You can also paint the mantle to accent your new fireplace surround for a cohesive look that will serve as a backdrop for holiday photographs for years to come.

2) Research Functional Additions Adding a guest bathroom or wet bar is sure to impress visitors and add to your home’s value. But this may seem impossible in spaces without below-floor drainage for plumbing, like a basement or garage. A simple, affordable solution is above-floor plumbing system that avoids the hassle and expense of busting through concrete to create conventional drainage or installing a sewage ejector system.

3) Create a Contemporary Kitchen The kitchen may be the heart of the home, but it’s also the hub of the holiday season. From roasting that golden turkey to baking and decorating favorite holiday treats, the kitchen is a functional gathering place for your family and guests. Simple updates can make a big difference in style and functionality, such as enhancing organization and adding seating options.

If you want bigger changes without the expense of a complete remodel, consider thoughtful updates that revive your kitchen with notable style. Painting the existing cabinets and adding new hardware provide a visual facelift that revives the room. New countertops are nice, but sometimes just adding a new backsplash transforms the space, plus makes for easy cleanup during sometimes messy holiday cooking. You might also consider adding an island with running water and a sink.

4) Define Dining Areas Whether you have an open concept home, or the layout features a formal dining room, it’s important to update eating spaces. After all, enjoying food together is one of the crowning events of holiday get-togethers. Painting the space in a modern hue provides a big visual impact without much cost or effort. An area rug can also redefine the dining room and pull elements together. New linens add a holiday vibe. More casual eating spaces can benefit from a refresh as well. Tidy up breakfast nooks and buffet tables so they are ready to use. Stools for countertop spaces create an ideal place for cooking, casual noshing, and conversation. If you’re hosting children, you may want to set up tables and other areas for them to eat and play games.

Continued on page 15

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Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Q: With so many options, who can be trusted with your real estate needs?

A:

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PAGE 11

PAGE 12

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Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Changing Gwinnett for Generations to Come: Meet Chad Livsey

By Kristen Eleveld

Many of us who live in Gwinnett County were born and raised here. But how many of us can say that our family has been part of the area since the 1930s? One local Gwinnett family is using their deep roots to give back to the community in multiple ways.

Meet Chad and Candra Livsey, two Gwinnett County residents who are working hard to use their resources and ideas to better the area around them. Chad, whose family has been in the same area in Gwinnett for generations, saw an opportunity to use some family-owned land to bring the community together. Beginning in June of 2021, he and Candra partnered with another local family, the Dortches, and created The Promised Land Open Market, an outdoor market designed to help local vendors and businesses showcase their work.

“I was raised by entrepreneurs,” Chad said. “It was very natural for me to want to give others that same opportunity.”

The open market invites a host of local business owners and creators to rent a stall that will allow them to share their wares and talents with their neighbors. A variety of offerings are available every month.

“People make so many different things, like homemade butters, juices, and desserts,” said Candra. “Anyone who wants to come is welcome.”

Each month celebrates a different theme. In June, the Livseys spoke with attendees about the significance of Juneteenth and what it meant for their community. At the next market in July, they gave away school supplies to 300 families in attendance. They also donated school supplies to Anderson-Livsey Elementary, which was named for the Livsey family, along with another local family. Moving forward, the Livseys hope to continue to use their monthly open markets as a way to help those in need.

Helping is in Chad’s blood. He’s been cleaning up the Snellville and surrounding areas for over five years. Whether he sees some trash on the street or knows of a local park that needs some TLC, Chad is right there, throwing out trash and recycling whatever he can. In fact, beautifying his community is so important to Chad that he has his own non-profit, The Chad Livsey Project, which is committed to cleaning the community one bag of litter at a time. Partnering with Laura Hernandez of Gwinnett Recycles as a Come Clean Gwinnett co-founder, Chad has since gained a following in his local neighborhood of people who believe in his mission to make the world more beautiful.

It was while cleaning up the land that the Promised Land Open Market now resides on that Chad realized how much potential there was for the space, and now he’s combined his passions to bring his community a chance to recognize the need for keeping their streets clean while also supporting local businesses.

“The market is about revitalizing the town and showing people the history of it,” said Candra.

“Seeing minority business owners go from being nervous about sharing their talents to being proud of their accomplishments has been amazing to watch.”

With a focus on sharing both the history of this section of Gwinnett and the accomplishments of local Black business owners, the Livseys have high hopes that their often-forgotten little corner of the world will soon have more life.

“I was born to do this,” said Chad. “I want this community to grow and thrive once again.”

And if you want to help Chad and Candra make their community beautiful, there are plenty of ways you can volunteer. Cleaning up the market area, painting structures, and assisting vendors with their set-up are just a few of the ways you can help this family with their dream of seeing their neighbors achieve great things.

“This place has a lot of history for the county, for Georgia, for Black people, and for our family,” said Candra. “We want to make sure our community is never forgotten.”

More information at thepromisedlandmarket.com or thechadlivseyproject.com

Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 13

Erin Thompson of Brookwood High: Named Teacher of the Year

By Traci Sanders

Brookwood High School recently recognized Erin Thompson as Teacher of the Year 2021. Thompson teaches grades 9 through 12 in Gifted Accelerated Pre-Calculus and AP Statistics, and this is not only her fifteenth year in education, but her entire teaching career thus far has been devoted to Brookwood High.

With three kids of her own – an eleven year old and six-year-old twins – Thompson adores children and revels in watching them learn new things. This is Thompson’s first teaching award, and her husband and children are quite proud of her accomplishment.

“My husband is my biggest supporter,” Thompson stated, “and my kids have been an active part of the Brookwood community since they were born. Being a part of the Brookwood community is a blessing because we are one giant family where you can truly feel the love and support for one another and our schools.”

This dedicated teacher wears many hats outside of her classroom to impact the lives of youth in her community. She’s the co-department math chair and senior class sponsor in charge of planning graduation and other senior year events, and oversees the football managers and the Diamond Girls for Brookwood Baseball. Thompson and her husband piloted the ultimate frisbee team at Brookwood almost fifteen years ago and just recently turned the reins over to someone else. She has also volunteered for various charity events, including Relay For Life with a co-teacher friend.

When asked what she loves best about teaching, Thompson replied, “The people. I love being in the school environment and learning just as much from the students as they learn from me, and I enjoy the camaraderie I share with the other teachers. We all learn from each other.”

Thompson went on to say, “Those who teach are in it for their passion for kids, not just the content but molding our future leaders of this country.”

Continued on page 22

PAGE 14

First Look into 2022

By Emily Rubin

As the new year fast approaches, I have been pondering the possibilities of entering 2022 as a college senior. The beginning of the year will be the end of my senior year, and I am so excited for all that is to come. The end of my senior year will be stressful, but all the work I’ve put in for the past four years will be worth it when I walk across the stage and get my diploma.

The new year brings change and an opportunity to challenge myself to be the best I can be for my last semester. I will explore new forms of writing and push myself to be a better journalist. I will continue to learn about writing and work hard at achieving my goals.

After I graduate in May, I plan to get a job as a news reporter for a newspaper. It might not happen right after graduation, but that is the biggest goal I have for 2022. I am looking forward to starting my professional career and improving my skills. I do not know where I will work yet, but I am excited to see what my options are. The work I have put in at different publications have set me up for success no matter where I end up.

I am also excited about the possibility of the pandemic coming to an end and would love to travel again and explore the world in 2022. I have missed going on vacations and making memories abroad. I hope in 2022 I can have more of those experiences.

Another experience I am excited for in the new year is moving out of my apartment. I have no idea where I’ll move to, but I am very excited to have a new space and a change of layout. I am ready for a change and a fresh start.

Yes, 2022 is full of exciting possibilities and I am eager to see what the year has in store for me.

Even if everything does not go as planned, I am still thankful to see another new year.

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Spotlight YOU: Jim Jenkins of Dyal Jenkins

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Our Town Gwinnett (OTG): What do you like most about being able to give back in supporting the community?

Jim Jenkins (JJ): Helping others is, in and of itself, satisfying. To me, there’s no greater, more satisfying feeling than donating something or giving to someone deserving or needy.

My firm frequently works with clients on fees to get a better deal than they would with any other law firm.

OTG: Are there examples of ways you give back throughout the year?

JJ: In personal injury work, I frequently tell my clients that my goal is to make sure that the money they walk away with is the biggest check that I write in their case. This may mean that my fee is reduced, but I am happy with that.

On a more personal level, I try to give through the various churches I attend, through local non-profits, stopping to help a distressed car, and by giving free legal advice when I am able to. The most gratifying method of giving is when I get to do so anonymously. It’s something that simply warms my heart, and I selfishly keep that small nugget of love to myself because it feels like it loses something if I talk about it.

OTG: What are you most thankful for in this holiday season 2021?

JJ: That I am able to give when I do. I am also thankful for the flexibility that I have in my career, that allows me to be a constant presence with my family.

OTG: What are you most excited about for the new year of 2022?

JJ: From a business perspective, I have several clients with cases that are tear-jerkers, and I look forward to them getting their cases resolved this coming year so they can move forward with their lives.

From a personal perspective for 2021, I was sorely disappointed when I hurt my leg about a month before I was going to run in my first half marathon. I had to withdraw because my leg wouldn’t cooperate and get better. I hope to get fully recovered and have the opportunity to cover that distance in a race early this coming year, and maybe graduate to a full marathon by the end of the year.

OTG: What do you love most about being a business during the holiday season?

JJ: Everyone just seems a bit nicer during the holiday season. There’s a cheeriness that is more absent during other times of the year. The holiday season just seems like a whole bunch of Fridays back-to-back!

Feel free to reach out and connect with Jim Jenkins, who can be reached at (706) 255-1081.

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Dr. Jasmine Hawkins wasand born andin Laplace, raised in Laplace, Louisiana andState attended State University Dr. Jasmine Hawkins was born raised Louisiana and attended Alcorn UniversityAlcorn where she obtained her bachelor’s in preobtained medicine/biochemistry.

Afterwards, attended medical school at the University of she Mississippi Medicalmedical Center where she her bachelor’s in preshemedicine/biochemistry.

Afterwards, attended and theHawkins OB/GYN residency graduation in 2017.

Her and loveattended women’s health started as a senior school when Dr.joined Jasmine was born andupon raised in Medical Laplace, Louisiana Alcorn State University where in shehigh obtained her school at the University of Mississippi Center andforjoined the OB/GYN residency upon graduation she became interested in teen health advocacy andshe since then expounded as sheatcontinued to obtain knowledge in the field. bachelor’s in pre medicine/biochemistry.

Afterwards, attended medical school the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2017.

Her love for women’s health started as a senior in high school when she became interested Dr. Hawkins is married with 2 children, enjoys sports (especially baseball), traveling, cooking, reading James Patterson and and joined the OB/GYN residency upon graduation in 2017. Her love for women’s health started as a senior in high school whenin John Grisham spending andcontinued friends. teen health advocacy since then and expounded as with shefamily continued to obtain knowledge inthe thefield. field. she became interested in teenand health advocacy since then time expounded as she to obtain knowledge in Dr. Dr. Hawkins is married with 2 children, sports (especially baseball), traveling, cooking, reading James Patterson and Hawkins is married with enjoys 2 children, enjoys sports (especially baseball), traveling, cooking, John Grisham and spending time with family and friends.

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PAGE 15

Travel Tales: On the Road Again

By Pam Walker, CTC, ATC, DS, LS

Boy, do I love to travel! Granted, it is not like it used to be, but I will suffer through it.

I was scheduled to go to a meeting in Amsterdam in early 2020, but of course, due to Covid, everything everywhere shut down. The meeting was subsequently postponed for the fall and then the spring of 2021. It was not happening.

Finally, in late October of this year, I boarded my big international Airbus 350 with direct service to the capital city of the Netherlands for the long-awaited meeting. Surprisingly, every seat on the plane was occupied.

It was a short night flight, thank goodness, as even with my 5’2” frame I had a hard time sleeping as the excitement of people traveling caused constant chatter.

So, what about the Covid procedures? The week before I left, the requirements by the Dutch government were wavering back and forth. A Covid test first was required, then was not. I did my own test at home within the 24 hours that were/were not required, just in case. I also had to fill out

two required forms, which the customs agent did not pay attention to when I arrived, and no one ever did.

After a taxi ride to the hotel, check-in was easy; but I had to show my vaccination card, and then take another PCR test. Scheduled to board a river cruise for a few days, I had to have the saliva PCR test within 24 hours of boarding and then another 24 hours prior to returning home to the USA. These rules are pretty standard across Europe so be prepared ahead of time. Check the rules of the specific country where you will be going, and in the case of multiple countries, check the multiple rules as to which test and how often. Masks in the Netherlands were not required upon arrival, but three days later the rules changed again and masks were required.

Being aware of the rules and being patient to accept constant changes should serve you well for a great trip abroad. Most airlines have up-to-date information on everything. So get out there. Prices are rising due to fuel costs. If you want to go, think about booking now and not waiting for the last minute.

Enjoy your travels. I always do!

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com

Spotlight YOU: Roger S. Green of Green Financial Resources

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Our Town Gwinnett (OTG): What do you like most about being able to give back in supporting the community?

Roger S. Green (RSG): The community has supported us and our business, and we feel very grateful and blessed to be able to do for others. It’s also a great way to team build and to shift our focus to others.

OTG: Are there examples of ways you give back throughout the year?

RSG: Our entire staff has worked together, led by my wife, to host eighteen golf tournaments, raising over $500k for charities we love. We are going to be sponsoring a Salvation Army Red Kettle and devoting a day of staff time to bell-ringing at Bass Pro Sugarloaf Mills on Thursday, December 16th! Come out to see us.

OTG: What are you most thankful for in this holiday season 2021?

RSG: Since December 2020, we’ve had three more of our kids marry, and added a granddaughter in October, with another due in December – which will be our 7th! My parents Continued on page 20

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Holiday Traditions: What are Your Favorites?

By Tana Poncsak

I love holiday traditions – the things we remember doing routinely, often as a family or with friends, during the holidays. Over the years these traditions have become treasured memories. They make the holidays even more special. But as we grow older, our families evolve and change, and so do our traditions.

As your family changes, you can keep holiday traditions no matter how big or how small. Even if your family isn’t together for the holiday, you can start by keeping small aspects of past traditions, or pick and choose variations of your holiday favorites. For example, if grandparents live out of town, set aside a time when they can read The Christmas Story to the family over Zoom or Facetime.

Holiday traditions help keep the magic and anticipation of the season alive, especially for younger family members. So as time goes by, don’t be afraid to add new traditions. Young family members can add these to their memories and hold them dear for a lifetime.

Here are some common holiday traditions: • Tree trimming • A special family Christmas Eve dinner • Opening one present on Christmas Eve • Matching family holiday pajamas for Christmas morning • Holding a holiday breakfast or brunch • Attending a candlelight church service or midnight mass • Starting an Advent Calendar to count down the days until Christmas • Family readings of The Christmas Story • Caroling • Holding a family holiday movie night • Attending a holiday event such as a local production of A Christmas Carol or The Nutcracker • Holiday baking and candy making and holding a cookie exchange • Taking in a local Christmas tree lighting ceremony • Visiting Santa • Driving around nearby neighborhoods to look at holiday lights and decorations – Bonus points for a thermos of hot chocolate and listening to carols • Working on a large holiday puzzle • Gathering the family for some holiday crafting – Handmade ornaments and decorations are always in style

• Joining the hustle and bustle and going shopping – Even if you don’t like crowds, getting out in the crowd can sometimes put one in the holiday spirit • Having a giftwrapping party • Sending holiday cards with family photos – Bonus points if you still add an annual family newsletter • Taking a holiday vacation, such as a ski trip to a ski resort How many of these do you and your family enjoy, and what other favorite family holiday traditions are missing from this list?

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PAGE 17

Trickum Middle School’s Aris Randle: Named 2021 REACH Scholar

Spotlight YOU: Nathan McMichael of Cutting Edge Painting

Aris Randle was identified as the 2021 REACH Scholar for Trickum Middle School and was honored with a ceremony on October 15, 2021.

Aris is one of two REACH Scholars in the Gwinnett County Public School System this year and will receive $10,000 upon graduation to apply towards college. She will also meet with a college student mentor throughout high school to keep her on track for graduation.

A crowd of about thirty people made up of Aris’s family, some of her elementary school teachers, her elementary school principal, and her friends’ group attended the ceremony. Melissa Schoonover, the 8thgrade counselor at Trickum, said the employees from the county office who came to present the award told her Aris’s ceremony had the largest crowd they had ever seen.

“She really does have a really big village around her,” Melissa said.

Aris has a very involved family to support her, and Melissa believes the county office was looking for a student with strong family support to be the REACH Scholar for Trickum.

At the ceremony, Trickum Middle School Principal Ryan Queen welcomed Aris into the pro-

Our Town Gwinnett (OTG): What do you like most about being able to give back in supporting the community?

Nathan McMichael (NM): It’s always more fun to give than to get. The satisfaction of giving support to someone in need is tenfold anything I could do for myself.

It’s the law of nature, and therefore I enjoy using the blessings I receive to bless others. It really gives more purpose to what we do.

OTG: Are there examples of ways you give back throughout the year?

NM: We love the opportunity each year to give back through our Reach Initiative program. Anyone in the community can nominate someone (or an organization) to be that year’s recipient, and we’ll bless that individual (or organization) where they need it most. This year we helped out the organization Peace of Thread in supporting their cause in helping women refugees. That honestly blessed us maybe as much as it was a blessing to them.

OTG: What are you most thankful for in this holiday season 2021?

NM: I am always incredibly grateful for all of our teams who day in and day out shine in serving our customers. They go above and beyond in meeting our customer’s needs, and I can’t say enough how appreciative I am for what they do for Cutting Edge Painting.

OTG: What are you most excited about for the new year of 2022?

NM: I am looking forward to more opportunities to serve and support our community and teams.

It’s no secret that our nation is seeing decisions being made right now that are challenging the values of our country, and I for one am looking forward to being a voice of encouragement and truth, and standing up for those values. It’s easy to be passive, but good things don’t come out of ease.

OTG: What do you love most about being a business during the holiday season?

By Emily Rubin

Continued on page 22

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

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One Man’s Opinion: It’s Time to Vaccinate the Children

By Bill Crane

Our mother, then Betty Lynn Ready, was just a little girl, going to school every day with thousands of other kids in Birmingham, Alabama. From 1949 to 1952, a polio epidemic was sweeping the globe. The virus tended to selectively target population centers, often leaving stricken children in wheelchairs with permanent leg braces and deformed limbs. During the late 40s, the disease caused paralysis in 1 of every 1,000 children aged 5-9. By 1952, 57,628 children had identified cases, 21,269 experienced temporary or permanent paralysis, and 3,144 died.

Little Betty Lynn brought polio home from school. Though she became very ill, has a slight limp to this day, and is suffering from something called polio syndrome more than seven decades later, Lynn Crane survived. Her younger half-brother was not as fortunate, and polio took his life at the age of three. The stress of the loss of the son broke up the marriage, and her step-father left her mom and mine to fend for themselves.

The Salk polio vaccine and oral vaccines would not become widely available until 1952.

Americans young and old would wait in line for blocks for their vaccines. Children were later given an oral vaccine. A global eradication campaign began, lasting for decades, and polio now only exists largely on a petri dish in a deep freeze in places like the CDC. Almost every child in the country now receives a polio vaccine, typically in their first months of life. To matriculate and attend Georgia public schools, proof of receiving more than thirteen preventative inoculations is required.

Vaccines and boosters have saved both my daughters – one of whom has brittle asthma and a slightly compromised immune system – from the bulk of childhood diseases I experienced, including chickenpox, mumps, measles, and German measles. Moreover, thankfully, BOTH of my girls are now also fully vaccinated against COVID-19. My oldest daughter is a school teacher in Gwinnett County, which is Georgia’s largest public school system. This pandemic makes finding a substitute teacher nearly impossible, has most schoolchildren perpetually masked, with students and teachers alike daily robbed of the simple pleasure of seeing each other smile.

As long as there are able hosts for this virus to inhabit, it has room to grow and mutate, with the opportunity to create even more deadly variations. Furthermore, vaccines and their near-universal

dispersal allowed the CDC to eradicate polio and smallpox, not herd immunity.

The CDC, FDA, and other global public health agencies have now cleared a 1/3 dose of the Pfizer vaccine for 5 to12 year olds. PLEASE consider making an appointment for your child as a special holiday gift. Give him or her back sleepovers, the ability to hug a friend, grandparent, or teacher (IF they want to do that). As with polio, prior versions of the flu and a host of other diseases bring community vaccination rates to above 75 percent (letting those who adamantly refuse to choose to stay home), and then watch that virus die for lack of places to go.

The nationwide campaign slogan to eradicate polio was logical and easily understood: “Do everything you can within reason.” That is still true today.

My youngest daughter hates needles. As she was getting her first and later the second dose of the Pfizer vaccine (at age 14), she barely reacted. I’m not sure the first dose was even felt, but she was certainly ready for that promised Chick-fil-A lunch and ice cream reward. She and her classmates are all sick of wearing their masks, but they would be MUCH sicker if one or more of them were to catch COVID-19.

I can still picture a younger version of my mom, limping to school, without her little brother tagging along behind her. She didn’t have the option of a vaccine at that time, but she still has a mark on her heart and that glitch in her gait. She would probably love to trade places and have been among the 1.6 million children involved in the Salk Vaccine clinical trial in a heartbeat. Our Mom’s tough, as she has also survived COVID-19 prior to this vaccine being available, though she has never fully recovered.

This answer is just too obvious, and the risks are far outweighed by the rewards. It’s time to vaccinate our children. Mine already have been, and my twin grandsons, the Mighty Mites, will be in the queue as soon as infant doses become available. Talk to your pediatrician. Make the appointment. Don’t risk an avoidable, life-scarring event.

Crane is the senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com

A Whole Lot of Christmas Shines Bright Continued from page 8 especially love that a tradition that began with their three daughters can now be shared with their three sons-in-law and six grandchildren, too!

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PAGE 19

Spotlight YOU: Roger S. Green Continued from page 16

Spotlight YOU: Dr. Janice Wilmot Continued from page 9

celebrated their 59th anniversary in November. We are so very grateful for the love that is so abundant in our large and growing family!

OTG: What are you most excited about for the new year of 2022?

RSG: I’m looking forward to all the fun we’ll have with our growing family. Also, some staffing additions we’ve made, and working with my sons as they grow and expand their role in our family business. My wife and I are also hopeful that 2022 will allow for more travel – something we love that we haven’t gotten to do enough of these past couple COVID years.

OTG: What do you love most about being a business during the holiday season?

RSG: My wife is good about coordinating numerous employee activities year-round, but those usually increase at the holidays. This year we have a few meals and parties planned, our bell-ringing outing, the fun of putting up the office Christmas trees, and celebrating with gifts to and from our clients always make the season more memorable. Last month we did an impromptu pizza picnic because we just couldn’t resist getting everyone outside to enjoy the gorgeous 70-degree November Georgia day!

Give Roger S. Green and his team a call at 770-931-1414

OTG: What are you most thankful for in this holiday season 2021?

JW: I feel so thankful for my orthodontic team. The past nearly two years now has been the most challenging of my career with how to practice safely and keep up with all the constant changes.

Thankfully everyone stayed well and adapted to the new changes. Our patients have been great during this time, and thankful for all of the safety protocols.

OTG: What are you most excited about for the new year of 2022?

JW: Next year is the 25th anniversary for the practice, and we are beginning to plan a big birthday party for the office and patients. We had a party for our 20th anniversary at the JB Williams county park which was a lot of fun. We are thinking of the new splash pad at the Lilburn city park.

OTG: What do you love most about being a business during the holiday season?

JW: I just love how our community shines during the holidays. We seem to take more time at the holidays to tell others that we care and wish them well. Also, my church helps ring for the Salvation Army during the holidays, and this has become one of my new favorite things to do. My shift is 2 hours, and I love to see the kids skip up to the red bucket with a beaming smile to give to others!

Give Dr. Wilmot and her team a call at 770-921-2233

Happy Holidays!

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PAGE 20

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PAGE 21

Erin Thompson of Brookwood High Continued from page 14

2021 REACH Scholar Continued from page 18

What does the future hold for this Teacher of the Year? “I could see myself in a leadership role of some sort,” she said, “though I’m not sure in what capacity just yet. I truly enjoy supporting other educators, but for now I’m happy being in my classroom.”

Congratulations again to this well-deserving, multi-talented educator!

More information at https://www.gcpsk12.org/BrookwoodHS.

gram, and the employees from the county office walked her through signing the contract. Aris was also able to meet her mentor at the ceremony.

The REACH Scholar program is a needs-based mentoring program for promising students. This is the first year Trickum Middle School has been part of the program and Aris was chosen out of ten applicants who were invited back for interviews after submitting applications.

“One of the biggest things that stands out to me about Aris is her confidence,” Melissa said.

Aris is confident and sure of herself. She is also very involved in the Junior Leadership Corps at Trickum and is a leader in color guard. Melissa describes her as a go-getter and someone who loves to be involved.

“She does a really good job of advocating for herself while also being polite to others,” Melissa said. “She’s super confident in that way. She’s super into her art.”

Aris is a digital artist interested in attending a college to explore art and design in the future. The $10,000 she will receive from the REACH Scholar Program can go towards any Georgia HOPE eligible college.

More information at www.reachga.org.

Spotlight YOU: Nathan McMichael Continued from page 18 NM: It has been such a blessed and busy year, and I am honestly looking forward to allowing all our staff to take some much needed time off to spend with their friends and family over the holidays.

I am a big believer that we work to live, and that time spent with family needs to be prioritized. I’m looking forward to doing just that, and I’m grateful that we have this blessed time of year to do so.

Give Nathan and his team a call at 678-571-5975

COME SEE WHY

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PAGE 22

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Dec ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 23

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