FEB 2016: Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Magazine by Our Town Gwinnett Magazine

The Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Community and Family Magazine

Our Town

February 2016

Lawrenceville l Snellville l Lilburn l Stone Mountain

Meet Charles Minter of Charles Minter Tae Kwon Do, see story on page 5.

9 Chick-fil-A Lilburn and the Community: Serving More than Chicken 15 Catching up with Dr. Pruni: Lilburnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s American Ninja Warrior 17 Community Spotlight on: Greater Eastside Chamber of Commerce 20 Up Close with Mayor Tom Witts of Snellville

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Dr. Gravante’s Story Like many people, I have battled with my weight most of my adult life. I first started gaining weight when I was a teenager. The stress of academics (sedentary lifestyle), along with hormonal fluctuations, started my journey of weight gain and endless diets. My life seemed to revolve around: being miserable because I was on a diet, binging after being frustrated on a diet and then looking for the next “miracle” diet to “fix me”. I did this for decades…. It wasn’t until I was in my late 40’s that perimenopausal symptoms went into high gear. Mood swings and foggy brain (“What was I talking about?” “Why did I walk into this room?”) were at an all time high. Then to make matters worse, insomnia set in. I was at my wit’s end and I knew I had to do something…but what? I truly had no idea. I first thought of dieting. What else, because most of us believe “if I lose weight, I’ll feel better”. I thought of all the diets I’ve been on over the years and I finally realized that diets don’t work; maybe temporarily, but not in the long run. So now what do I do? It took some time, but I soon discovered Functional Medicine. Functional Medicine is about healing the metabolism; primarily through nutrition and supplementation. One of the nice side effects is that you lose weight (specifically, excess body fat). In the beginning, I didn’t look at Functional Medicine as a way to heal my body; I saw it as another diet. So I began my journey. First thing I noticed is that my weight loss was slow and steady. I noticed that I woke up in the morning in a good mood with energy and ready to start my day, I was even sleeping through the night! To sum it up, I felt “normal”….no, I felt GREAT! I also noticed that I wasn’t dieting – I was changing my lifestyle, along with the proper nutrition and supplementation for my metabolism. That was over 10 years ago. What an amazing journey it has been. My life has taken such a positive and productive path! My practice naturally began to include Functional Medicine. My patients saw the transformation in me and wanted me to help them do the same. Since then, I have helped hundreds of my patients, am a national lecturer of Functional Medicine, completed my Fellowship in Metabolic and Nutritional Medicine and have been accepted in the Graduate Program at the University of South Florida, School of Medicine, in Metabolic Nutritional Medicine. I’m in my late fifties now… instead of slowing down, my whole life is unfolding to new possibilities. It is my strong belief, that health is more than just “normal” lab results or the absence of disease! Real health is an optimally functioning human being in mind, body and spirit. It is my passion and calling to share with my patients this possibility.

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These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by PAGE Forasinformation onforbecoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or with callyour 678-825-2049 Our Town Dr. 2Gravante is not intended a primary therapy any disease. Prior to starting any diet, nutrition or exercise program, you should consult medical physician.

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On the Cover: Charles Minter Tae Kwon Do By Kim Hill Years ago in Jamaica, Charles Minter, just for fun, had his palm read. The reader told him he had more children than anyone she had ever seen. “You have many, many, many children,” she said. At the time, Charles had one daughter, and chuckled to himself, but a friend said, “You know, she was talking about your students.” Master Minter truly feels his students are like his children, regardless of their age. No matter how proficient they have become under his tutelage, he feels protective of them. Minter began studying karate when he was 15. Eight years later he opened his own studio. In the 37 years since then, he has helped thousands of students develop skills, balance, respectfulness, and confidence. “It helps develop the individual,” he says. “You don’t get lost in the crowd, everybody participates, everybody learns at their different level.” When asked how he first became interested in martial arts, Minter replies, “Well, truthfully, I like to fight. But as I got into the martial arts, I realized more and more that it was about many other things; fighting is just part of it. It turned into learning that you want to be the good guys, and that’s what we always teach our students, that you don’t use it for the wrong reason. The more you get involved with it, you realize that you have a responsibility, besides learning to take care of yourself and to take care of others, not to misuse it.” Minter attracts students of all ages and for a variety of reasons, from learning self-defense to competing at local, state, and national level competitions. Many adults just want to de-stress. “They can beat on the bags,” he says. Some see karate as an alternative to team sports because they can progress at an individual level. Some parents seek it out for their children to help with discipline. For those students, Minter says they teach that there is a time to have fun, and a time to work hard, and the hope is they will carry that balance with them wherever they are. “We try to help the children get on the right path to making good decisions and that is going to help no matter what they’re involved in.” Many families choose to participate together. While the family classes are split into groups so children and adults can learn at their different levels, Minter suggests that some 10-year-olds will progress more quickly than their parents! He says that anyone can participate. “We take you as you come to us, and then we work you from that point.” Minter stresses that all his instructors are adults, many of whom started as students of his as

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early as age five. In addition to teaching at the main studio in Snellville, Minter has been partnering with Gwinnett Parks and Recreation for 25 years to offer classes at locations throughout Gwinnett County. Additionally, he runs an afterschool program in the Snellville area where kids are given time to do homework, and then to participate in martial arts training and other physical fitness exercises. “We keep them very active,” he says, “because we know they get enough time sitting at the computer or on the video.” He also brings his talents to area daycares. “This is what we do full time,” he explains. “Ages 4 to 70, we teach all the different levels.” Charles Minter loves what he does, and says he’ll do it until he dies. There is no reason to retire, he explains, since this is what he would do if he retired. It has been gratifying for him to see students who started with him at a very young age advance to become Masters in the martial arts. He often has former students say what a difference his teaching has made in their lives. “I have been very fortunate and very blessed that I have been able to spend my life doing something that I love every day. I feel people enjoy what they are learning and have use out of it - I can’t ask for more.” For more information, visit www.MinterKarate.com or call 770-985-0050

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IN THIS ISSUE Ninja Warrior Obstacles

Parkour/Free Running/Tumbling Training Center 5 On the Cover:Fitness Charles Minter Tae

Kwon Do 7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 7 Learning Lessons: How to Foster Critical Thinking Skills in Students 9 Chick-fil-A Lilburn and the Community: Serving More than Chicken 10 Angels in Every Season: Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry Delivers Hope through Adopt-an-Item Program 11 Community Spotlight with$25 Three Strands: Hope, Love, and Honor Off 13 One on One with Dr. Chris’ Natural Remedies in Snellville 14 Travel WinterisCarnival in Québec “Life is an Obstacle andTales: No Obstacle Too Big!!!” 15 Catching up with Dr. Pruni: Lilburn’s American Ninja Warrior Train with 17 Realty Reality: Five Things to Consider Before Listing Your Home American Ninja for SaleWarriors at the ONLY Ninja Warrior Gym in 17 Community Spotlight on: Greater Eastside Chamber of Commerce this Area! 20 Up Close with Mayor Tom Witts of Snellville 22 Georgia’s Best Chocolate Would You Like to Train Like An American NinjaBenefits Warrior?Many Located: Beaver Ruin Village Shopping Center (Behind Kroger at Lilburn Crossfit 678)

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"Let's Be Glad You Did!"

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

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

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I hope you are off to a great February. Winter is in full swing, and before we know it warm weather will be back. Wow, does time ever go so fast. As always, we have an issue of local stories, written by our talented team of local writers, on local topics. These are stories that are covered virtually nowhere else and that provide you a break from our constantly connected world. It would be easy to simply pull in generic stories (like other magazines do), but that would not make your reading experience special. After all, this is the story of Our Town, NOT “any town.” We are dedicated to excellence and to providing insightful local community and family content. This demands a great team and a commitment to excellence. This is our goal each month. Our Town’s overall readership continues (in both Gwinnett monthly magazines) to grow each month. Why? We have an excellent team and group of advertising partners. Each month, we mail a high quantity of copies (yes, lots of postage) to select homes, distribute thousands of additional copies in our display shelves in strategic areas in the community, produce our online version (OurTownGwinnettOnline.com) which is growing exponentially, and stay connected with our heavily engaged social media audience. All of this info can be found on our newly updated website, OurTownGwinnett.com Our Town provides a high-end quality printed product with a unique size – for example, our ¼ page ads are nearly as large as other ½ page ads – that is filled with content people want to read. We provide better stories and lower adverting rates with greater branding value. We touch readers through a variety of channels. This means we integrate print, online, and digital media so you can choose how you “consume the content” we offer. This is a true “win-win” for our readers and advertising partners. Finally, I ask that you support our advertising partners who invest, believe in, and support this community. Please consider where you spend your money and choose an Our Town partner. These are organizations you can trust, and we are quite selective of who we partner with and are so proud of each of these organizations. Thank you for doing this, and tell them Our Town sent you. We are excited about the future and know the best is yet to come. We have an amazing community and so much to be proud of. So, stay connected with us during the month. Have a great February and stay warm. And as always: this is my town, your town, Our Town!

Learning Lessons: How to Foster Critical Thinking Skills in Students By Carol Chandler-Wood It’s important for students to develop critical thinking skills, learning HOW to think, not just WHAT to think. Some students develop critical thinking naturally. Others have to work to develop these abilities. It is important to teach students how to properly understand and evaluate what they are learning, rather than just the rote memorization of information. Additionally, critical thinking is not only about thinking analytically, but also about thinking differently. It is about fully understanding the problem, dissecting it to find ways to get to the root of the issue, and then devising a variety of solutions. One way for educators to foster these skills is to encourage students to intentionally analyze situations and create analytical and strategic thinking habits. This can be done via class lectures, lab exercises, homework assignments, quantitative exercises, term papers, and cleverly constructed tests. Lectures Listening to lectures does not promote critical thinking because listening is a passive process while critical thinking is an active process. So, during lecture presentations, be certain to explain the logical connection between events in a story. Question students in ways that require they not only understand the material, but can analyze and apply it to new situations. Lab Exercises Incorporate science instruction and lab experiences early in students’ lives. They will learn scientific methods by actually practicing the science. Continue laboratory experiences in math and science classes during middle and high school to further develop critical thinking skills. Homework Assign traditional reading homework questions for review, drill, and practice, as well as assign special written problem sets or questions that will foster critical thinking. For example, have students paraphrase, summarize, and outline all reading assignments in written form. Then Continued on page 12

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Chick-fil-A Lilburn and the Community: Serving More than Chicken OUR ALL-NEW BOXING CLASS IS HERE.

By Kathleen L. Mardis

Chick-fil-A Lilburn is not just any quick service restaurant. As soon as you turn into the parking lot from Lawrenceville Highway, you sense this dining experience may be different. You are welcomed with one-of-a-kind “Eat Mor Chikin”inscribed boulders, elaborate landscaping, a waterfall in the drive-thru line, and face-to-face ordering outside, and you haven’t even stepped foot in the restaurant. Once inside, the friendly and courteous team members greet you with that notorious Chickfil-A smile. “We like to think of our restaurant as an extension of your living room,” says Bryan Shepard, Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Lilburn since August 2007. “We’ve created a family atmosphere for not only our guests, but our team members as well. I’m truly amazed at the culture we’ve developed here.” The culture was developed by investing in the community. With over fifteen elementary, middle, and high schools in the area, Bryan has been very intentional in giving back to the teachers, staff, and students. At least twice a week Chick-fil-A Lilburn hosts Spirit Nights for elementary and middle schools, with a percentage of the evening sales donated back to the school for club and sports programs. The giving back continues through Backstage Tours of the kitchen for Girl/ Boy Scout Troops, nutrition classes, and preschool and Mom groups, hosting a Daddy Daughter Date Night event in February, a Mother Son Date Knight event in April, and spontaneous foodgiveaways throughout the year. Bryan has been with the Chick-fil-A family since he was a sixteen-year-old team member at North DeKalb mall. This October he celebrates his 19th anniversary as an owner/operator. Don’t mistake his longevity with the business as an opportunity for him to slow-down. This past December, for the second time in his career, Bryan earned the highly coveted Symbol of Success award, and for the first time in his career the prestigious honor of Champions Club. His investment in his team members, and specifically his leadership team, is what drives him on a daily basis. His job satisfaction is summed up in a quote by his mentor and founder of Continued on page 21

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exchange for the three freeat classes. Free classes must be completed within days of initial Call formembers our class schedule. Offer expires 12/31/16. † Limit three free classes per person participating locations only. Not*At valid with any other offer. Noconsultation. cash value and new only. Firstschedule. visit discount may be offered12/31/16. in participating locations only. exchange for the three free classes. Free classes must be completed within 7 7days of initial consultation. Call for our class Offer expires exchange for the three free classes. Free classes must be completed within International, 7 days of initialInc. consultation. Call for our class schedule. Offer expires 12/31/16. ©*At 2016 Curves participating locations † Limit three free classes per person at participating locations only. Not valid with any other offer. only. No cash value and new members only. First visit discount may be offered in © Curves International, Inc. © 2016 Curves Inc. exchange for the three freeat classes. Free classes must be2016 completed within 7other days offer. of initial consultation. Call formembers our class schedule. expires 12/31/16. † Limit three free classes per person participating locations only. Not valid with anyInternational, No cash value and new only. FirstOffer visit discount may be offered in

Proudly serving our community since June 2005. exchange for the three free classes. Free classes must be completed within International, 7 days of initialInc. consultation. Call for our class schedule. Offer expires 12/31/16. © 2016 Curves © 2016 Curves International, Inc.

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Enroll your child in a DECAL licensed Early Childhood Education program. We serve Brookwood, Craig, Gwin Oaks and RD Head Elementary. Field Trip calendar on our website.

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PAGE 9

4217_Dr. Chris' Valentine's Day ad resized.pdf 1 1/25/2016 9:05:10 AM

Angels in Every Season: Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry Delivers Hope through Adopt-an-Item Program By Macrae Brennan-Fuller C

CMY

1982 E. Main Street , Suite D Snellville, GA 30078

770.979.5125

drchrisnaturalremedies.com

PAGE 10

The Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry and its staff of caring angels look forward to decking the halls with love, hope, faith, and encouragement for clients and neighbors in need. From the moment a client walks through their door, Director Laura Drake and her front desk staff, who she describes as the heartbeat of the office, welcome people in need with open arms. Their new facility is tucked away just behind Gwinnett County Fire Station 8 in Grayson. A glass container, which serves as a prayer bank, adorns a table in the lobby. Clients are encouraged to drop a rock from the table into the jar and be thankful. The rocks represent answered prayers, which is what the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry staff members are to the community and its client base. These rock star disciples of God volunteer their time to the Co-op and work diligently each month to serve 400-500 families from the southeastern corner of Gwinnett County. Because the Co-op relies solely on donations from local churches, the Atlanta Community Food Bank, the USDA Commodity Supplemental Food Program, grocery stores, and the public, the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry is always looking for innovative ways to help the community. Through the launch of its brand new Adopt-an-Item Program, the Co-op looks forward to empowering citizens to serve as angels all year long to help those in need “The Co-op’s goal is to be able to give our clients the basic items needed to feed their families,” Pantry Manager Ivy Hudson said. “In many cases, we are not able to provide these items because our shelves are bare.” The program is designed to encourage the community to step forward and support the Co-op’s high-demand food and non-food items by donating one or more of the selected items over a 12-month period with the option to renew this selfless gift each year. Continued on page 16

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Our Town

Community Spotlight with Three Strands: Hope, Love, and Honor By Sarah Dickens It began as a pain that transformed into a passion. Three Strands, Inc., a nonprofit that assists BirthMoms in the process of placing their babies for adoption, continues to make a difference in their lives today. Founder and president, Stacy Coleman, formed Three Strands on November 22, 2013. “We serve BirthMoms as they realize their value in the three strand cord of BirthMom, child (and) adoptive mom,” said Coleman in a quote on www.threestrandsinc.org. Executive Director Jennie Hundley said a BirthMom was a woman facing an unplanned pregnancy that places her baby in another woman’s arms to raise the baby. To uplift their spirits, the nonprofit delivers gifts to BirthMoms called Three Strands bags. Gifts include candles, Vera Bradley bags, fuzzy socks, and other specially selected items. They are presented to BirthMoms to provide them with hope, love, and honor. “I definitely think (the Three Strands bag) gives them hope to get them through it so that they know that they are not alone,” Hundley said. “Got my gift and I am still crying,” an anonymous BirthMom said in a text message to Hundley. “I can’t tell you what this means. I needed this more than you will know. I am reading this book now and am so blessed to have you and Three Strands.” Besides delivering bags, the organization hosts quarterly gatherings that have included the Lake Lanier Magical Night of Lights, watching Wicked at the Fox Theatre, and a cupcake and canvas gathering at Pinot’s Palette. These gatherings allow the group to love and pamper BirthMoms. “We can all understand each other,” Hundley said. “We’ve walked in each other’s shoes.” As for the future, Hundley said, “Our plan is to go nationwide and that no BirthMom leaves the hospital without knowing that she has a community of support. “These women are in your community, in your church, and could even be your neighbor,” Hundley stated. “Some BirthMoms live in shame and embarrassment and absolutely should not! We should honor and celebrate her as she chose life and chose adoption, and what she believed to be the best choice for her child at that point in her life. Without the BirthMoms, adoption would not exist.” More information at www.threestrandsinc.org.

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Learning Lessons

Continued from page 7

grade these assignments by giving oral quizzes. Doing so will cause students to prepare carefully to avoid embarrassment of not knowing the content of the reading. Quantitative Exercises Assign math, chemistry, and physics exercises and word problems that require problem solving skills needed for everyday life situations. This will cause students to think about nature and reality in quantitative terms. Include assigned term papers in math and science classes, which forces students to acquire, synthesize, and logically analyze information. Grade on the content of their responses as well as on spelling, grammar, punctuation, and idea development. Term Papers One of the best ways to teach critical thinking is to require students to write. Writing forces students to organize their thoughts, contemplate their topic, evaluate the information gathered logically, and then present their conclusions in a persuasive way. Excellent writing is the epitome of excellent critical thinking abilities! Exams Devise a few questions on every test that require students to write, or at least think. Short and long-answer essay questions are ideal. Doing so tests a student’s ability to analyze information and then draw conclusions. Carol Wood is CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc. More information at http://www.totallearningconcepts.com/

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One on One with Dr. Chris’ Natural Remedies in Snellville

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By Heidi Campbell For ten years, Dr. Chris’s Natural Remedies of Snellville has helped patients ease their suffering, determine causes of ailments, and learn to live healthier, drug-free lives. They do this using a combination of chiropractic services, holistic approaches, and naturopathic practices. They have recently added iridology and DNA testing to their total wellness services. Three months ago, the practice expanded and welcomed two new doctors: Dr. Kriscinda Morgan, a certified naturopathic doctor who handles nutrition and health assessments, and chiropractor Dr. Kerith Powell. When Dr. Powell began looking for a practice, he had no idea that he would end up in such a unique situation. After visiting Dr. Chris, he recalls, “I had never been in this sort of practice before, but I sat and watched Dr. Chris work. Everything was in smooth order, and I had a sense that everyone felt at home here.” The Snellville office is divided into a retail store and the provider office. The retail store carries a host of natural supplements, including the “Standard Process” and the “Triple Flu Threat,” both popular with patients. “The brands we sell are not synthetic vitamins you can buy anywhere,” Dr. Chris explains. “The primary lines that we sell are food-based, not USP Pharmaceutical Grade.” The provider office accepts walk-ins and appointments. “We accept patients on any level of the ‘road to recovery’ scale,” explains Dr. Powell. “They may come in suffering from a physical, chemical, or biological event, or they could have emotional stress. Many visit in a state of total health, and they are just looking to maintain that. Our goal for each patient is complete wellness. We use nutrition, supplementation, chiropractic, and whatever other activities we give them to do at home. Everyone gets an individual care plan.” Part of their approach involves assessments of health. They do muscle testing, saliva hormone testing, and hair analysis. “Hair analysis allows us to check for excessive minerals in the hair shaft,” explains Dr. Morgan. “When that’s tested, you can see the history three to six months back. If they have lots of copper, for instance, there are lots of natural treatments we can put in place. We look for root causes. We like to find the ‘why.’” Dr. Chris recalls seeing amazing transformations over the years, particularly one of a sevenyear-old autistic child. He was non-verbal, did not read, and could not complete everyday activities. After nine months of treatments, he could say his alphabet and work on a computer. His Continued on page 18

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Travel Tales: Winter Carnival in Québec By Pam Walker Now that the holidays are over, everyone is thinking about winter vacations. What better way to chill those gloomy days of January and February than to escape to a wonderful winter carnival? Québec City has one of the largest winter carnivals in the world, and in 2016, from January 29th to February 14th, Valentine’s Day, you can enjoy activities for all ages that include ice canoe racing, night parades, snow slides, a giant football game, snow sculptures, sleigh rides, and ice skating. Should you want to spend a day on the slopes, skiing is not far away. My favorite hotel in Québec is the Relais & Chateau’s Auberge St. Antoine, which sits in the middle of all the fun. Built inside a historic building, the hotel boasts one of the best restaurants in the city and is a wonderful haven of luxury. Amazingly, the staff knows the guests’ names and they do their utmost to make the Carnival a great experience for everyone. During Winter Carnival, the area comes alive and the streets are filled with people from all over the world. With cobbled streets covered with a blanket of snow and lined with historic houses from the 19th century, Québec looks like a scene from a winter fairy tale. A cable car ride from the Auberge is the Chateau Frontenac, the most photographed hotel in the world. From the terrace, one can see the great St. Lawrence Seaway filled with ice flows. You can also take a ride on the historic toboggan run nearby. Outside Québec you can ski at Le Massif de Charlevoix or go snow shoeing at the spectacular Rivière Jacques-Cartier National Park where the valley is surrounded by spectacular walls of snow and ice. Don’t miss this winter wonderland so close to home! Pam Walker is a virtuoso travel advisor and can be reached at pam@walkeradventures.com

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Charles Minter Studio Snellville Bogan Park Community Recreation Center Dacula Park Activity Building George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center Lenora Park Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center Mountain Park Activity Building Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center Rhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation Center

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Catching up with Dr. Pruni: Lilburn’s American Ninja Warrior

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By Rachael Brice What is fitness? According to the founder of Crossfit, Greg Glassman, fitness consists of ten key aspects: cardio and respiratory endurance, strength, speed, stamina, power, coordination, agility, balance, flexibility, and accuracy. Glassman believes if you do not possess each of these facets, then by definition, you are not fit. Dr. Robert Pruni, DC, DACRB, CCSP, CPT and CFL1 also accepts this definition of fitness and teaches these ten aspects every day at CrossFit Lilburn, the only CrossFit facility in the country that houses a full three-stage Ninja Warrior obstacle course, which is now the largest CrossFit/Ninja gym in the United States. Dr. Pruni has been busy since we last caught up with him. He competed in seasons 5 and 6 of American Ninja Warrior (ANW) and submitted his application and video to compete in season 7 when, regrettably, he broke his neck. However, nothing can keep Dr. Pruni down for long. A few months later he traveled to Orlando to test the obstacles used in season 7, leading him to submit his audition tape for season 8. Additionally, Dr. Pruni and his team added many more obstacles to the Ninja portion of the gym and hosted its fifth ANW competition, which was attended by more than 300 Ninjas. This competition was particularly special because it was a part of the newly formed National Ninja League (NNL), a nonprofit formed by a collection of the nation’s top Ninja facilities whose goal is to promote Ninja obstacle courses across America. Roughly 60,000 Ninjas submit a video for their shot at the coveted title of American Ninja Warrior, but only 600 to 700 make it to the first round of competition. So what do the other 59,400 Ninjas do who don’t make the cut? They join the NNL and run various obstacle courses across the country to stay in shape and ensure they’re at the top of their game. “The goal,” Pruni said, “is to get these Ninjas to become sponsored athletes and make them true Ninja pros.” Pruni and the NNL team are currently working to obtain sponsorships for some of these Ninjas Continued on page 18

Be Our Guest for an Open House! Sunday, March 20th, 2016 Meet our staff, tour our campus and learn how our school can provide your child an excellent, Christ-centered education in a safe, loving environment. Providence is a distinctly covenant, Christian school that encourages spiritual development while integrating Biblical truth into every subject area.

RSVP online at www.tourprovidence.org Our Town

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PAGE 15

Gwinnett’s premier event destination for 20 years!

Angels in Every Season

Continued from page 10

The Co-op issues a call to action and community members can adopt one or more of its highdemand items, including canned vegetables such as spinach, collard greens, turnip greens, corn, potatoes, carrots, sweet potatoes, beets and mixed vegetables. Other items in high demand include eggs, milk, grits, whole grain spaghetti, canned pineapple, dry beans and lentils, canned ham, beef and salmon, canned soup and broth. The Co-op also needs personal hygiene items such as diapers, deodorant, disposable razors, shaving cream, feminine products, dish detergent, laundry detergent, and tissue. To adopt an item from the list, residents can simply email ihudson@segwinnettcoop.org, or call 770-958-5229, ext. 108. Once an item is adopted, residents can drop it off each month at the Co-op’s office located at 55 Grayson Industrial Parkway in Grayson. Drop off days and times are Mondays: 10 a.m. – noon and 3 – 7 p.m.; Tuesdays: 10 a.m. – noon; Wednesdays from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Thursdays: 10 a.m. – noon; Fridays: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.; and Saturdays: 10 a.m. – noon. More information at www.segwinnettcoop.org.

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Our Town

Realty Reality: Five Things to Consider Before Listing Your Home for Sale By Kathy Coots So you have decided that you are going to sell your home. While your home may work just as it is for you and your family, and though you don’t want to invest any more time or money into your property, there are a few necessary steps that every homeowner should take in order to ensure that his or her home will sell quickly and at the highest price possible. Have Your Home Professionally Cleaned – While this may seem like an unnecessary expense, it can give your home that fresh appearance that really appeals to potential buyers. Make All Necessary Minor Repairs – This is an inexpensive way to give your home a finished look. Repairs include fixing damaged walls and ceilings, installing new faucets/lighting fixtures, and making any cosmetic changes that will give your property a modern appearance. Don’t forget exterior repairs and landscape! Clear the Clutter – Giving your home an open and clean appearance can definitely make a huge difference in attracting buyers. Be sure you tidy any messy areas of the home, and de-personalize it by removing most photos and any items or collections that may be distracting. Consider More Major Renovations If Necessary – Issues such as a kitchen/bathroom that is very outdated or in bad repair, or any electrical, plumbing, or mold problems, can really stall the sale of your property. Fixing these problems will usually not only make your home sell more quickly, but will also increase the value of your home. Contact a Real Estate Expert – A REALTOR® can give you advice on what your property’s potential value may be, what improvements your home needs to get the best price, and the best strategy to use to market your home. If you need recommendations for vendors to do the above mentioned work, give me a call and I’ll be happy to provide a referral. Kathy Coots is owner of Coots & Company, a Keller Williams Realty team. More at KathyCoots.com

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Community Spotlight on: GECC By Daidra Annis On the east side of Gwinnett County, there’s a little chamber of commerce that is making a big difference with its members and the community. The Greater Eastside Chamber of Commerce (GECC) has effectively served small businesses and the East Gwinnett/Walton communities since 2006, and today it is growing by leaps and bounds. From humble beginnings as the Grayson Chamber of Commerce, the GECC is now proud to serve the Loganville, Grayson, and Snellville communities. It is the official chamber for the city of Snellville and participates in events in all three cities. The GECC currently serves 217 members, which is more than double its membership just one year ago. Doug Adams, the current president, will serve until July 2017 with the support of three elected and four appointed board members. Mr. Adams took over the helm of GECC six months ago from past president Jamie Dempsey, who had served as president for four years. With a commitment to serving the business community and a goal of no member getting “lost in the shuffle,” it’s no surprise that GECC is experiencing such explosive growth! Although GECC’s focus is businesses located in Grayson, Loganville and Snellville, a business from Monroe, Lawrenceville, or even as far as Covington, could benefit from what GECC has to offer. Membership is open to all areas of Georgia, and individuals (i.e. political figures and retirees) and non-profits are offered their own levels of membership as well. GECC offers a plethora of opportunities to grow a business, and they provide multiple support services for their business owners. From monthly events like Coffee & Commerce, a Monthly Luncheon, and Lunch-N-Learns, to weekly open and closed networking events, every member has the opportunity to participate at the level in which they are able, and to leverage the chamber’s many resources. One such resource is the business video series, “Profitability Revolution Paradigm.” All GECC members have unlimited access to this informative video library that covers a wide range of topics from human resources to marketing to employee development. A weekly e-mail Benefit Chat includes discounts at other member businesses. Chamber Chat, which includes information on upcoming chamber-hosted events, goes out every Monday morning to over 550 people. All new members can have a Ribbon Cutting no matter how long the business has been open. Hosting a Ribbon Cutting or a monthly Coffee & Commerce meeting is a great way to introduce a business to the community and to meet fellow members. GECC can be found supporting many charitable organizations within the community. Shepherd’s Staff, FISH, Make-A-Wish, The Path Project, and the SE Gwinnett Co-Op are just a few of the wonderful organizations that have benefited from a partnership with GECC. Each fall, the chamber hosts its signature fundraising event, a Chili Cook-off, in Grayson Community Park. All proceeds from the event go to benefit the charitable partners chosen for that year. GECC Continued on page 21

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Lilburn’s American Ninja Warrior

Continued from page 15

so they can become true professionals and get paid to compete. They are also working to expand the league and establish more Ninja gyms in the central states of the country, as most of the gyms are predominately located in the Northeast. “The Northeast generates more Ninjas than any other part of the U.S,” Pruni said. His NinjaKour gym is one of two in the Southeast. Not only is Pruni a Ninja, he also practices medicine full time as a chiropractor, rightly earning himself the nickname, “Doc Ninja.” Besides providing relief for his patients, he also provides care to other Ninjas he competes against. “I want them to be in the best possible shape when I kick their butt,” Pruni said. Pruni and his team have also started a kid Ninja program, which allows children and young adults, ages six to sixteen, to learn the different Ninja obstacles while having fun and getting in shape. When students master an obstacle, they move up in ranks, which range from Level 1 to Level 10. Pruni said if a student is good, he pushes them to enter competitions and join the NNL to compete professionally. “It’s a win-win situation,” Pruni said. “Too many times I’ve seen parents coming to the gym to train but leave their kids sitting in the lobby sipping on Mountain Dew, playing video games, or watching a movie. Now both parents and kids can exercise at the same time and have fun while doing it.” Pruni and his team now host Ninja Birthday Parties. He provides balloons, paper products, and the venue, and gives party guests a true Ninja experience by allowing them to try out the obstacles. Pruni can host up to four parties on a given Saturday, and each party runs ninety minutes booked every two hours. As a full-time husband and dad of four – and when he isn’t breaking a sweat at the gym or caring for his patients – Pruni can be found spending time with his family. He considers himself lucky to have such a strong support system both in and out of the gym. More information at http://crossfitlilburn678.com/ or http://ninjakour.ninja/.

Dr. Chris’ Natural Remedies

Continued from page 13

grandmother videotaped his continued progress as he began bike riding and reading at a gifted level. “It was a true testament to these natural approaches,” Dr. Chris says with a smile. More information at drchrisnaturalremedies.com

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Up Close with Mayor Tom Witts of Snellville By Kathleen L. Mardis

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Maybe it’s the oath he gave to duty, honor, and country back when Tom Witts joined the US Navy and became a decorated veteran of combat in service to the nation. Maybe it’s the discipline he learned there. Perhaps it’s the dedication that took him through Lackawanna Junior College and two years at Penn State. Or maybe it’s the business acumen and drive that he uses being owner/CEO of Georgia Property Restoration. All that, plus six years of service on the Snellville City Council are certainly part of what helped Tom Witts be chosen as the newest mayor of Snellville. As a young man Tom Witts took to heart what his father told him after Tom spoke to him about some ideas. His dad said, “You got the easy half done, son. You talked about it.” So Tom learned to do the hard part: go out and do the work. For instance, when Tom became a city councilman in 2009, he found out that there was no money in the budget to light the town Christmas tree. So, he got together with Snellville city council members Barbara Bender and Jackie O. Ginn, and together they made that Christmas tree shine. Tom’s vision of the future of Snellville is about growth and reality. For instance, when talking about a few traffic problems, he also pointed out how sad it would be if there was so little traffic that it would be easy to drive to any of the wonderful shopping, dining, or other venues of the city. Traffic does make it challenging to host such events as the Beach Blast, Snellville Days, the Pizza Pool Party (at Briscoe Park), Guns and Hoses Softball Game (no kidding), and much more. The Snellville city government has plans for community growth, needs, and entertainment. The ideas and the work for Snellville are diverse and ambitious: Veteran’s Park, the new Town Center, an updated Town Green, and more. Check out the Labyrinth on the City Hall Campus (dedicated January 30, 2016). Look to the beauty and spirit of the Veteran’s Memorial, Mayor Witts’ pride and joy. In addition, programs and plans for the community’s health, education, and quality of life are being planned and implemented. While Mayor Witts is justifiably proud of leading the team that created the memorial, his greatest delight is in the attitude of his staff and the Snellville citizens. His vision is a coordinated effort by all the city departments and agencies, so don’t be surprised at all when he gets the “hard” half done. More information at http://www.snellville.org/

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Spotlight on: GECC

Continued from page 17

members are not only passionate about their businesses, but they are dedicated to giving back to the community. Partnering with local schools in Loganville, Grayson, and Snellville, the leadership team also works closely with Snellville’s Economic Development Department. They are also an active supporter of South Gwinnett High School’s ongoing Entrepreneurship program, specifically the annual “Shark Tank” competition in which students are awarded money to start a business that has been accepted by judges. Each quarter, GECC partners with Heart of Gwinnett and Snellville Tourism & Trade in a free networking “After Hours” event that boasts an average of 100-120 attendees. The Greater Eastside Chamber of Commerce is truly “Where Business and Community Meet.” More information at www.eastsidechamber.com

Chick-fil-A Lilburn Continued from page 9 Chick-fil-A, Truett Cathy: “Nearly every moment of every day we have the opportunity to give something to someone else – our time, our love, and our resources. I have always found more joy in giving when I did not expect anything in return.” More information at http://www.cfarestaurant.com/lilburn/home

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Georgia’s Best Chocolate Benefits Many By Kim Hill When Kay Citron was a very young girl growing up on a farm in southern Georgia, she learned the art of candy making from her grandmother. In 2009 when she needed money for her son’s traveling choir expenses, she sold homemade chocolates to raise the needed funds. She later got the idea to box and sell the chocolates at concerts as a fundraiser for the choir. The chocolates became so popular that Kay established a cottage business in 2012. The name came about as choir members played with different ideas using GBC, the initials of the Georgia Boy Choir. When Georgia’s Best Chocolate was suggested, Kay loved its simplicity and felt it was meant to be. As business grew, Kay needed help producing the increasing quantities of chocolates and longed for a way to involve her grown adult children. She didn’t ask, but prayed about it. One particularly busy Friday, Kay sought the help of one of her daughters. The daughter’s car had broken down, so her sister brought her. The oldest son then called and realized the need, so he came, too. When the youngest son saw everyone home, he skipped school and they all ended up having a great time together in the kitchen. Kay’s prayer for a family business had been answered. From 2010 to 2015, Kay was able to donate close to $20,000 to the choir. Over the last couple of years, her chocolate sales have provided support for Breast Cancer Awareness, the Tim Redovian Memorial Fund for performing arts, Ovarian Cancer Research, and the Methodist Church Doxology Choir. During her busy Christmas and Valentine seasons, Kay hires young people in need of money to assist with boxing and ribbons. She also gets her pecans from local Georgia farmers. Kay has a five-year vision that includes a storefront, but she uses her dad’s philosophy of “never spend what you don’t have” and carefully allocates a portion of each year’s budget to reach her goal. Her marketing efforts have helped find stores to sell her chocolates, and she ships to several states. She has had customers say that calling it “Georgia’s Best Chocolate” is an understatement. “If you purchase chocolates from me,” Kay says, “you know two things. One is you are going to get a good quality product, but two, the money is more than likely going to go to a fundraiser, a charitable organization, or a youth group of some sort to help kids through whatever phase that they need a little help with. I think that’s a win-win situation – you get the chocolates, and the kids get the benefit of the money.” More information at www.GeorgiasBestChocolate.com

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Lilburn