JANUARY 2015: Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Magazine

The Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Community and Family Magazine

Our Town

January 2015

Lawrenceville l Snellville l Lilburn l Stone Mountain

Meet Dr. Gangwisch and Dr. Hulsey of Gangwisch Dental Group, see story on page 5.

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Sports Talk with: Coach Jack Gayle of Parkview High Swim and Dive Catching Up with: Eddie and Wanda Price of Eddie’s Automotive Up Close with Richard Tucker: Community Leadership in Gwinnett Getting Schooled with: Principal Bo Ford of Brookwood High School

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Brenda’s Story You can do this! All my life I’ve been told, the older you get the harder it is to get the weight off. Not so with Functional Medicine; which I call the get healthy program with Dr. Gravante. Medical doctors kept telling me: “your border line diabetic…got to get that A1C down and get to exercising.” My friend is a dialysis nurse and she took me on a tour of one of her clinics. That really scared me and I realized that could be my life if I didn’t change. I was eating healthy but my blood work was getting worse and I wasn’t losing weight. I was very frustrated and didn’t know what to do.

Brenda After

Dr. Gravante and I go way back; I had not seen her in years. I was having some neck and shoulder pain and decide to call for a chiropractic appointment. We caught up on times and my neck and shoulder pain resolved with chiropractic treatment. I was feeling better. One evening, Dr. Gravante was having a class on getting healthy, so I decided to attend and boy did it get my attention. On June 1, 2014, I immediately started Dr. Gravante’s program. It has been wonderful and life changing experience. After only the first month on the program, it was amazing the difference I felt. My energy level was up, not wanting to sleep as much, no restless leg syndrome and 15.5 pounds of fat gone in my first month. Hey this is not hard at all! I love the morning functional medicine shake and the evening shake is not bad either. This is really working!!

Have you ever been excited about getting blood work done? I couldn’t wait! I knew it was going to be good. Four months after starting Dr. Gravante’s Program, I had my blood work done. I couldn’t wait to see Dr. Gravante and share with her the good news. A1C down (that’s a test for diabetes), cholesterol down and triglycerides down I was diagnosed earlier with a fatty liver. I am thrilled to say it is now normal.

EVERTHING IS FUNCTIONING NORMALLY!! I’ve lost a total of 35 pounds so far – 32 of it is FAT! I feel so young at 60, my health has changed and getting better with each day!

Brenda Before

Lorraine Gravante, D.C. The Center for Natural Healing Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by Monday, June 15. and Weight Loss 2176 Oak Road SuiteWe’re D looking forward to meeting you at our Summer Evening Open Snellville, GA 30078 www.drgravante.com

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See our website for a complete listing of workshops.

These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by Dr. Gravante is not PAGE more call 678-825-2049 • OurTownGwinnett.com Our Town intended2as a primary therapy for any disease. Prior toFor starting anyinformation diet, nutrition or exercise program, you should consult with your medical physician.

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Where doctor meets neighbor A doctor who is familiar with your medical history brings peace of mind. We have more than 100 physicians in 30 locations specializing in internal and family medicine and multiple specialties such as ENT, OB/GYN and orthopedics. Our physicians are able to seamlessly utilize the resources and consultations that our three hospital network provides to give you the best care.

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PAGE 3

Maurice Jove M.D. Introducing Nathan A. Jove M.D. as the newest physician to join our practice.

2400 Wisteria Dr Suite A Snellville, GA. 30078

770-985-9330 2801 N. Decatur Rd. Suite 200, Decatur, GA. 30033

404-296-5005 4743 Loganville Highway Suite 100, Loganville, GA. 30053

770-564-3393 We are the team physicians for the Archer, Parkview, Grayson, Collins Hill, Loganville, and Walnut Grove communities along with Loganville Christian School, and various Dekalb County Schools.

Sports Medicine Arthroscopic Surgery Joint Replacement Surgery

PAGE 4

For more information call 678-825-2049 • OurTownGwinnett.com

Our Town

On the Cover: Dr. Gangwisch Leads with Expertise, Philanthropy, and Learning

By Heidi Campbell “I knew I wanted to be a dentist,” shares Board Certified Dr. Richard Gangwisch, “because I am mechanical and I enjoy working with my hands. I also love working with people, and owning my own business, so dentistry was it!”

With two full time dentists, Dr. Gangwisch and Dr. Hulsey, five hygienists, four dental assistants, and a warm and welcoming administrative staff, the Gangwisch Dental Group has been serving the Lilburn area for thirtyfive years. This family practice provides not only the standard preventative and restorative care, but also offers cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic care, and oral surgery – a one-stop shop for all dental needs.

A waterfall contributes a sense of calm as patients enter the waiting area. Flat screen televisions are suspended over each dental chair, so even the most nervous patients can “tune out.” Kids who check out “cavity free” have their photograph added to the “no cavity wall.” Children also enjoy digging into the renowned treasure trunk that sits on the floor just before the exit door. According to Dr. Gangwisch, “Aside from the thrill of getting people out of pain, I love taking someone who has a dental phobia and turning them into a

comfortable patient.”

After graduating from the Ohio State College of Dentistry, Dr. Gangwisch worked as a dental officer in the U. S. Navy. He moved to Lilburn to open his own practice.

He recalls, “In 1979, Gwinnett was the fastest growing county in the nation. Lilburn was an up and coming community, and I saw a great future for it. As far as I’m concerned, we picked the best place in the country!”

Dr. Gangwisch works hard to keep his practice at the forefront of the dental industry. He has been awarded numerous honors and achievements, including Mastership with the Academy of General Dentistry. He also received the Lifelong Learning and Service Recognition award, which is a rare honor bestowed on dentists who, according to Dr. Gangwisch, “…already have their Mastership, but are crazy enough to continue with their education and perform a lot of hours of volunteer service.”

Outside of his dental practice, Dr. Gangwisch does not slow down. He not only teaches dental students at Georgia Regents University, but he also serves as the scheduler, the webmaster, and the treasurer of the Board of Directors at Bethesda Park, where he has volunteered since the park opened in 1991.

He also finds time each season to coach a

baseball team. He says, “I coach because I love to teach the fundamentals. I love to see the kids progress from the beginning to the end of the season.”

Dr. Gangwisch also shares his gift of dentistry with the less fortunate. He offers his time to the Georgia Mission of Mercy, which provides free dentistry to those who can’t afford it, and, for over 30 years, he has volunteered his time and oral surgery skills to the Ben Massell Dental Clinic on Fourteenth Street. He published an article about his experience with a program called “Give Back Smiles,” which works with abused spouses.

He recalls, “One physically abused woman I helped came in and had a lot of her teeth knocked out. When she arrived, jobless and without a car, she was depressed, down, and wouldn’t smile. We made the dentures for her, all pro bono. At the

end, we could not keep her from smiling. It was the difference between night and day. She came back with her hair styled, and she was talkative; it was incredible! I didn’t get paid a penny, but the experience was priceless.”

Gangwisch Dental is located in the Lilburn Professional Center at 912 Killian Hill Road in Lilburn. More information at www.gangwischdentalgroup.com.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE Where am I today? What are my goals? How will I achieve them?

Don’t start the new year by putting off what you should have done last year. Take some time to consider all of the possibilities. What would your family do if you were to die tomorrow?

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PAGE 5

Our Town The Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Community and Family M agazine

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Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers ryan@endresultz.com Creative Director Elsie Olson elsie@endresultz.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio Cover Photographer Kerr Studio Inc. Webmaster/ Technology Consultant Finley Williamson IV Feature Writers Rachael Brice Heidi Campbell Stacye Carroll Perry Rosenbaum

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Contributing Writers Jane Bishop Kathy Coots Kelly Farris Jeff Hayes Neil A. Kahn MD Julie D. Mills-Watson Pam Walker Carol C. Wood

Our Town 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 reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town 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 2015 by Our Town. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

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Yearly subscriptions are available. $30/year Stay Connected!

OurTownGwinnett.com Read Online: OurTownMagOnline.com @OurTownGwinnett OurTownGwinnett OurTownGwinnett

IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: Dr. Gangwisch Leads with Expertise, Philanthropy, and Learning 7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 9 New Year’s Resolutions for Students 10 The Key to Getting in Shape: START! 11 Recipe of the Month: Pork + Beef Ricotta Meatballs 12 Sport Talk with: Coach Jack Gayle of Parkview Swim and Dive 13 Living 4ward: Moving Day 14 Catching Up with: Eddie & Wanda Price of Eddie’s Automotive Service 15 Floor Please 16 Community Involvement is Paramount to Richard Tucker of Gwinnett 17 Community Member Spotlight: Meet Jim Vaught 17 This Year, Ski Europe!

18 Questions to Ask When Selecting a Qualified Agent to Sell Your Home 19 Stretching is Your friend!

20 Modern Psychiatry and Grief 21 Brookwood High School: A Building that Never Sleeps

For more information call 678-825-2049 • OurTownGwinnett.com

Our Town

From the Publisher:

To-Do in 2015:

One Man’s Opinion @RyanSauers

Happy New Year, Gwinnett. I hope you are off to a great 2015.

This month we profile the talented Dr. Richard Gangwisch and his dental practice. We also have great stories on Brookwood High School, Parkview High School’s Swim and Dive Team, and many others you will enjoy.

Our Town’s online audience continues to grow as people read via computer, tablet, and/or phone. Please visit the online version at OurTownMagOnline.com, or our social sites at Facebook.com/ OurTownGwinnett and Twitter.com/OurTownGwinnett, to stay connected. Our updated website, housed at OurTownGwinnett.com, is nearing completion, and we will soon allow specific banner advertisements on it.

In other news, we have listened to you and we will begin offering a subscription service in 2015 so you can receive Our Town if it does not come to your home.

A second edition of Our Town begins in February 2015, which will focus on a new geographical area. This is quite exciting, and we look forward to this expansion.

If you desire more information on any of the aforementioned items, please contact us. Next month I will have a QR code in this space that you can scan to be taken to a video with information you will want to watch. Please download a “QR reader” on your smartphone today so you will be able to scan and watch the video next month.

Our Town continues to provide a high-end quality printed product (gloss and unique size) with content people want to read. We integrate online, print, and social media so you can choose how you want to “consume the content” of the magazine.

In addition to the high quantity of mailed copies that go to mailboxes each month, Our Town samples are placed in strategic display shelf locations in Stone Mountain, Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Snellville, Grayson, and Loganville.

Here’s to a great New Year, and as always: this is my town, your town, Our Town!

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PAGE 7

Gwinnett County Real Estate Round Up BUYER

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• Motivated, pre-qualified buyers • Full time, Full service, Realtor Representation • Gwinnett County is experiencing a shortage of inventory. List now to lead the market and demand top dollar.

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Our Town

New Year’s Resolutions for Students

By Carol C. Wood

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Many of us will make goals of things we desire to change or improve in the new year. We must be willing to honestly assess ourselves and to identify things we desire to change.

Students often need change, too. Here are some New Year’s Resolutions a student can set. u Start with a new attitude about your future and yourself. Think positively about your abilities and change any negative self-talk you have about your potential and future success. u Work on becoming healthier by exercising more often, eating more nutritiously, and sleeping 7-8 hours each day. u Put forth 100% effort toward your academics and place emphasis on working to the best of your ability. u Accept personal responsibility when you fail to do what your teachers and parents expect.

Do not place blame on other people or situations for your mishaps, omissions, and/or poor decisions, judgment, or actions. u Stop procrastinating! This is a tough habit to break, so identify some actions you could take to lessen the incidences of procrastination, such as reducing technology use and/or tackling the most challenging academic tasks first. u Become better organized by using an agenda consistently, rewriting class notes so they are more legible, and color coding texts and course notebooks. u Reassess your afterschool and extracurricular activities, and eliminate some if your schedule is so busy that you are not able to devote focused time on your studies.

A good idea is to write your goals down, place them in a time capsule, and hide it somewhere not visible to family or friends. Then, in one year, open the time capsule and revisit your resolutions to determine how you did in 2015. For those items accomplished, congratulate yourself.

For those not accomplished, evaluate why and move on to the next set of New Year’s Resolutions!

Happy 2015!!

Carol Wood is Founder & CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc.

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The Key to Getting in Shape: START!

By Kelly Farris, ACSM CPT “What is the best way to get in shape?”

Getting in shape is not as difficult as it might seem. Put on your shoes and walk out your front door. Go to the park and walk, try an exercise video, join a gym, or take a group fitness class. Ride your bike. There is no one correct way, and everyone is different. Make sure that you pick activities that YOU enjoy. We are more likely to repeat an activity that is fun.

Have a goal. Set a big goal off on the horizon to aim toward, and then set small attainable goals for yourself, such as how far you will walk or the number of times you will exercise in one week. Having a goal enables focus and measures progress. Again, have fun! Play games with your inner competitor. Remember, no one can push you like YOU.

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Be aware of what you eat. Stop the processed foods that are grown in a lab. If it has a TV commercial, it probably isn’t very good for you. Do not eat out. Planning your meals and cooking at home gives you control over the ingredients and amounts that go into your food. You can limit the amount of added sugar, salt and fat you consume daily. Also, you can control your portions.

Restaurants sometimes give you two to three times the serving size you need.

Lift some weights. Start out with lifting your own body weight with exercises like squats, lunges, and pushups. Graduate to free weights. Weight training has multiple benefits. Having a higher muscle percentage fires up your metabolism and helps to maintain bone density. This is important for women as we age.

The hardest part about starting a fitness program is STARTING. You can do it!

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Our Town

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Recipe of the Month:

Chris’

Courtesy of Graft Restaurant

BARBER SHOP

Pork + Beef Ricotta Meatballs

Sliced white bread cut into 1/2-inch dice (about 1/3 of a loaf) 1 lb ground pork 1.5 lbs ground beef 2 large eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup ricotta cheese

1/4 cup milk (at most) 1 cup chopped Italian-leaf parsley 3 teaspoons dried oregano, crumbled 2 teaspoons fennel seeds, chopped 2 teaspoons crushed red pepper 2 tablespoons Kosher salt

Preheat the oven to 325°. In a food processor, pulse the bread to coarse crumbs. Transfer the crumbs to a large bowl and add the meat, parsley, oregano, fennel seeds, crushed red pepper and salt. Mix until evenly distributed. Set aside.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the ricotta, eggs, and milk just enough to break up the ricotta. Add ricotta mixture to ground meat mixture. FOLD LIGHTLY, until just blended. Make sure to fold in all of the components without over mixing in order to keep a light texture.

Lightly shape into approximately 2 oz. meatballs. Transfer the meatballs to a sheet pan lined with parchment paper.

Roast the meatballs in the oven for about 20 minutes, or until firm and before they are brown. Using a spatula, loosen the meatballs from the bottom of the pan. Serve as is or with an olive oil tossed pasta. No need for marinara unless desired!

Buon appetito! Should make about 30 meatballs, depending on how big they are rolled out. They freeze great, too!

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PAGE 11

Sport Talk with: Coach Jack Gayle of Parkview Swim and Dive

By Perry Rosenbaum In sports, individual and team success is often measured not by how many trophies you win, but by the ability to play as a cohesive, effective unit at a championship level. Those trophies do look nice on a mantle, but without hard work, perseverance, and a drive for what you do, said mantle will lay bare.

Parkview High swim and dive head coach Jack Gayle, who’s been the man at the helm since 2004, knows this to be true. Gayle, who attended Parkview and swam for two state championship teams during his high school years, is a graduate of the University of Georgia where he majored in journalism and advertising before receiving his master’s in English education. In addition to coaching the swim team, he also teaches gifted language arts and broadcast journalism.

He enjoys reading non-fiction psychology books for leisure, and his wife, Megan, is the math department co-chair at Brookwood. He qualified for the 2000 Olympics, and has won multiple Coach of the Year awards (including three for Gwinnett County and four for the state of Georgia), so it’s hard to doubt his prowess when it comes to the water. The Panthers have won four state swimming championships and six county titles since he took over, in no small part thanks to the instruction that he and assistant coach Eric Brown provide.

“I’m lucky. We’ve had a good run,” Gayle says with a humble grin. “Coach Brown and I both have a lot of experience in swimming…our purpose is to make the kids better. Whatever we come up with, there’s a rhyme and reason to it.”

Gayle gets his team motivated by keeping the enthusiasm and trust high. “I’m pretty animated,” he explains. “I get

PAGE 12

excited and stay positive, and the kids…trust us; there’s a lot of trust between [the coaches] and the kids.” He carries on the traditions of his predecessor, Rick Creed, who Gayle acknowledges as both a mentor and a close friend. The two often face each other in the first swim match of every season, with the Panthers squaring off against Creed’s Mill Creek Hawks.

One tradition that Gayle points to as a pillar of success is the kinship fostered between the young swimmers under his watch. “Chemistry is vital to our team,” he says. The kids often hang out with each other outside of school, are actively involved in local churches and charities, and even enjoy a meal together before every meet, which Gayle credits as fostering a strong connection that is obvious by their efforts in the pool. It’s this desire to achieve highly – instilled in each and every swimmer – that has helped Parkview win several close matches, including the 2013 state finals. “That was an extremely close meet. It was less than ten points [that decided the match over Chattahoochee High], and that was just determination. It could have gone either way, but we just made it happen.” Gayle mentions that one of the things he enjoys most about coaching swimmers is seeing someone unexpectedly reach their potential. “To see a swimmer tap into the talent they already have, fully committing to working hard and staying the course, is extremely rewarding.”

Gayle encourages the entire community to come out and support the confident Parkview swimmers throughout the season, especially during the county and state championships held from late January to the second weekend in February.

Details can be found on Parkview’s swim and dive website. All meets through the county finals are held at West Gwinnett Park or Mountain Park, with the state finals held at Georgia Tech.

For more information call 678-825-2049 • OurTownGwinnett.com

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Moving Day

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By Jane Bishop, Life Coach/Speaker It was a Thursday in December, slightly chilly but dry. The U-Haul truck had been rented. Belongings had been packed.

Family, friends, and contract workers were ready to load the truck with twenty plus years of “collecting.” After every nook and cranny was filled, the truck door was pulled down, locked, and ready for the next day’s travel. Each room in the house, except for some last minute items that needed to be packed into the two cars, was now empty and waiting to be swept. The final act was to double-check each room, then simply close the door.

While this describes what my youngest brother and his wife just experienced, my family and I had moving day scenarios many times growing up. We moved frequently due to my dad being a minister and an Army chaplain, so it was part of life to practice the “keep, toss, or donate” approach to things. Mother managed to keep valuables/keepsakes throughout each move. I am sure hard decisions were made as something else had to “go.”

What can be learned for a new year from moving day?

“Stuff” shows up in different ways: habits, mindset, attitude, limiting beliefs, physical items, etc. Consider what you have collected, literally and figuratively, during the last year. What purpose is it serving? How is it helping you live4ward? What is keeping you from letting go and creating space for something new?

As you start the new year, schedule a personal moving day to practice the “keep, toss, donate” approach, and clear space for new experiences. “Empty a room, sweep, and then simply close the door.” You may be amazed at what you experience!

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PAGE 13

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It may be cold outside, but it’s always warm at Eddie’s Automotive Service. That’s because Eddie’s Automotive Service isn’t like other automotive repair shops, and a big reason for that sits in the office directly behind the warm and inviting waiting room. Wanda Price works hard to make sure Eddie’s Automotive Service stands apart from the competition. “Lots of our customers are women,” Wanda explains. “We want them to feel comfortable. We want to know they can come here with a question or a problem and get the service they need without worrying about anything.”

In keeping with this mission, the Prices hired Matt Ingram to run the front desk, allowing Eddie time to do other things without affecting the level of customer service people have come to expect. A mechanic himself, Matt answers customer’s questions and schedules services using a new computer system that, among other things, reminds customers when their next oil change is due.

Brad White of Brad White Auto Detailing has also joined the Prices’ “automotive family.”

Formerly of the Lilburn Auto Mall, Brad now leases space at Eddie’s Automotive Service and can, according to Eddie, “…make a car look brand new.” With Brad came Nikki, the “shop dog,” whose bloodhound lineage is apparent in the size of her paws and sweet temperament.

These additions make for a lively shop. “You think everything’s complete until something new is added,” Wanda explains. “It’s like adding frosting to a really good cake.”

Eddie Price is entering the second year of his third term on the Lilburn City Council where he acts as liaison to the Downtown Development Authority, and Wanda continues her involvement with the Lilburn Community Partnership. The couple and their family recently began spending time on Lake Sinclair, but balk at the idea of retirement saying they’re not going anywhere any time soon. “Too many of our customers are more than customers…they’re family.”

Eddie and Wanda Price own Eddie’s Automotive Service. More information at: http://www. eddiesautomotiveservice.com/

New PAGE 14

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Our Town

Floor Please

A Day of ...

By Jeff Hayes An old story comes to mind about a person who gets on an elevator and wants to go to the 100th floor of a city skyscraper.

The elevator quickly goes up to the 80th floor, then stops and rapidly descends thirty stories. It then starts to go up again, and when it reaches the 90th floor it stops, and the doors open. The question then becomes, do you get off, or do you stay on and take the risk that the elevator will safely reach the 100th floor?

The same analogy can be made regarding the stock market. Is it better to realize your gains now, or are you willing to risk what you have for the chance of earning that little extra? It’s also like a ride at the amusement park, where you enjoy the ride for a while, but if you stay on too long, you may start feeling very uncomfortable. Sometimes knowing when to get off is just as important as getting on in the first place.

During this past year, I have realized that there is no guarantee that we will be here next year for Christmas, next month, next week, or even tomorrow. So, don’t put off until tomorrow what you should have done yesterday. Garth Brooks put it this way in one of his songs: “‘cause I’ve lost loved ones in my life, who never knew how much I loved them. Now I live with the regret…so tell that someone that you love, just what you’re thinking of, if tomorrow never comes.” Have you done everything that you can to prepare and protect your loved ones, both emotionally and financially, if your tomorrow never comes?

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PAGE 15

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Community Involvement is Paramount to Richard Tucker of Beverage Superstore

By Heidi Campbell Richard Tucker, the owner of the Beverage Superstores in Suwanee and Grayson, says that he felt incredibly fortunate when his store was selected as Grayson’s sole retail package store. Tucker is enthusiastic about the success that his 15,000 square foot store in Grayson has seen, and how that success has helped the local community. “In addition to helping the city of Grayson initiatives, local charities, and educational foundations,” he shares, “our significant contribution to the revenue stream of the city has enabled city officials to provide no-cost residential garbage service to its residents.”

Helping the community is important to the Beverage Superstores, which donate and belong to a long list of foundations and charities that include the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the Annandale Village, the Eagle Ranch, the Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation, and the Gwinnett Canine Pet Rescue.

Tucker models this community spirit for his team members as he dedicates his personal time to numerous civic organizations in Gwinnett County. He has held numerous leadership roles, and has been selected multiple times to Georgia Trend Magazine’s annual list of the 100 Most Influential Georgians.

Tucker has served on the board of the Gwinnett Convention and Visitors Bureau since 1994, where his work has involved managing the Gwinnett Center, the Arena, and the local hotels and attractions. He has also served on the board of Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful since 1996, and says that he is “honored to be associated with a group of concerned and dedicated citizens who work every day to make Gwinnett a better, cleaner, and more environmentally friendly community.”

In 2005, Governor Perdue appointed Tucker as a member of the Board of Regents with the University System of Georgia. He served as the chairman in 2008-09, and was reappointed in 2012 to a second, seven-year term by Governor Nathan Deal. “The University System has grown from 250,000 students to 312,000 students during my terms on the board,” Tucker explains. “We oversee a $7 billion budget, and are responsible for setting policy for our thirty-one institutions.”

Tucker has enjoyed all of his civic responsibilities, particularly his role as the president and CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce from 1996-2003. He has no intentions of slowing down his community involvement in the future, and plans to “continually look for opportunities to be of service to others while constantly eyeing opportunities to further grow and enhance my business.”

More information at http://www.beveragesuperstoreofgrayson.com

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Our Town

Community Member Spotlight: This Year, Ski Europe!

By Pam Walker

Meet Jim Vaught

It’s ski season, so where is the best place to get a head start on skiing? Head to Europe!

Every year I hear, “No, I don’t want to ski in Europe.

It’s well…so different.” When you have been everywhere in Colorado and Utah, skied the slopes of western Canada, and skidded on the slopes of Vermont or New Hampshire, then why not try Europe?

France and Switzerland are prime spots to start. Like Whistler in British Columbia, the conditions in the Alps become somewhat icy at the lower elevations. In the higher elevations, you get a hard pack like New England.

But like any place where snow falls, when you have a good snowstorm, the conditions can be fabulous.

The only real difference between skiing in Europe and in the US is that there are no real trails marked with green, blue, and black. There are no tree runs, and most of the boundaries are not marked. Pistes, as runs are called in Europe, are generally marked differently in

By Stacye Carroll Born in Nashville, Tennessee, Jim Vaught moved to Georgia after graduating college. He taught in both public and private schools in Dekalb County while also serving in the Army National Guard. As his final deployment before retirement, Jim participated in Operation Desert Storm.

Upon his return to the States, Jim was approached by twenty families with a vision. The result of that vision is Providence Christian Academy, though Jim is quick to point out, “God had to provide quite a few miracles.”

On July 1, 1991 the group signed a lease on twenty-five acres formerly occupied by retail establishments and welcomed their first 300 students just after Labor Day. Jim has served as headmaster for twenty-four years. In that time, the school has graduated 1,500 students, among them P.K. Martin, the recently elected state senator from Lawrenceville.

Jim met his wife Dagmar, a local muralist, when she joined the staff at Providence. She left the school shortly afterward and served as a translator at Good Samarian Health Center for five years. Dagmar credits an unconventionally multi-cultural childhood for her interest in public service. Jim, on the other hand, was influenced by traditional parents who put family first.

Besides the service opportunities presented by his position at Providence Christian Academy, Jim serves on the board of the Lilburn Community Improvement District and completed the Gwinnett Senior Leadership class last summer.

Dagmar describes herself and Jim as “adventurous.” Past vacations have been spent ice-pick climbing and bicycling on volcanoes. A question about retirement was met with laughter from both Vaughts. “We’re not the kind to sit in rocking chairs on the porch at the lake,” explains Dagmar. Community service will always be important to them, but when the time comes, it will also be nice to spend more time “knocking things off our bucket list.”

Jim Vaught is headmaster at Providence Christian Academy. More information at http://www. providencechristianacademy.org/RelId/33637/ISvars/default/Home.html

each country.

Most places in Europe don’t have ski-in, ski-out accommodations as slopes are located a little bit outside of town. Everyone either walks to the slopes or rides the ski bus. There are a few towns where ski-in, ski out accommodations do exist, such as Val de Ser or Corchevel in France.

In the Alps, like in the States, the après ski scene is lively. Jen, a ski tour operator from Alpine Adventures, recommends Val d’Isere where DJ’s and live music are the best. Europeans know how to party. Even in the daytime there are spots on the slope and slope side where you can sit back, get a beer, and get a great tan.

So don’t miss this opportunity to try something new. Europe is great for winter fun!

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Specialist and can be reached at pliwlker@earthlink.net. More information at www.walkeradventures.com

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PAGE 17

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Qualified Agent to Sell Your Home

By Kathy Coots, Realtor

Happy ‘Days’ Are Here Again!

Patty and Steve Day know a great home when they see one. After all, they’ve moved 36 times, most recently to Olde Town Grayson.

Olde Town Grayson offered the no-maintenance lifestyle the Days were looking for. They chose a roomy 3-bedroom villa, which was elegantly decorated by Patty, an accomplished interior designer.

For many people their home is their single largest material asset.

Finding someone you can trust to handle the sale of that possession can be a daunting task. Here are a few questions to ask when you are interviewing agents: 1. Will I receive daily updates on local real estate activity, including price changes, homes that have sold, and houses that have gone up for sale?

2. How many homes did you sell last year?

3. Can you provide me with a written Step by Step Marketing Plan of Action?

4. Do you have a full-time staff working to get my home under contract and sold?

5. Are you a full-time or part-time agent?

6. What is the average number of days your listings are on the market before selling?

7. On average, what percentage of the list price do your homes sell for?

8. Will the buyer’s agents on your team preview my property within the first week?

9. How many sellers and buyers are you currently representing?

10. What is your internet marketing plan?

11. What is your policy on responding to phone calls/emails/text messages?

12. How much of your business is generated by referrals?

13. What references can you provide?

14. Do you offer an “easy exit” listing so that I can end our agreement if not fully satisfied?

15. Do you have vendors (roofers, plumbers, electricians, painters) who can help get my home the highest market value possible?

By asking these questions you will be able to make an informed decision about hiring a wellqualified agent to partner with you in selling your home.

Kathy Coots is a Realtor with Keller Williams Realty- Atlanta Partners.

More information at www.kathycoots.com.

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PAGE 18

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Our Town

By Julie D. Mills-Watson, CMT, LLCC I have found through the years that the key to pain relief is stretching. Stretching can help with back pain, neck pain, headaches, shoulder pain, sciatica, fibromyalgia, stress, carpal tunnel, and much more!

I don’t want to discount the importance of strength training when it comes to our bones, muscles, and body support.

However, stretching is the secret to success in overall health.

Over time our muscles lose elasticity and draw up. The connective tissues become stiff, and we become more prone to injury and tears in the joints. When I ask my clients if they have a regular stretching routine, the answer is usually “a little” or a flat out “no.” This is understandable since stretching is not the first thing your doctor would prescribe.

Stretching benefits the entire body. It will help prevent injuries, strengthen the immune system, increase flexibility, boost endurance, improve balance and confidence, and greatly improve the overall quality of life. You do not have to make it difficult. If you are unable to get down on the floor, then stretch in the bed. You can lean against a wall or even begin in a chair.

Movement, pliability, flexibility, and “do-ability” are what I believe in. People can easily incorporate some stretching into their daily routines that can make a world of difference. For example, straighten a leg or arm just enough to feel a pull. Hold it for 5 -10 seconds, then release. If you do this every day, movement will become easier.

It is just as important for men to stretch as women. Just take a few minutes every day and stretch your body. Increase your range of motion and relieve the strain on your connective tissues and joints by stretching. It could be the most important thing you do for your body.

Julie Mills-Watson is owner of Body of Health and Life, LLC. More information at www.bodyofhealthandlife.com.

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PAGE 19

eat well

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Modern Psychiatry and Grief

By Neil A. Kahn MD

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Grief is the normal emotional reaction to loss. Inevitably, life presents us with a series of losses, and everyone experiences grief to varying degrees. Grief is associated with sadness, sleep disturbance, loss of appetite, preoccupation with a lost loved one, and occasional hallucinations, all which can be considered “normal” grief reactions.

There is a tremendous overlap between “normal” grief and depressive illness. However, some individuals who experience “normal” grief can benefit from antidepressant medication. This medication does not make the person happy – antidepressants do not make people happy when bad things happen – but helps to reduce some of the associated symptoms. People may sleep better, be better able to function, be less preoccupied with loss, have fewer anxiety symptoms, etc. Grief can “normally” persist for 1-2 years and to some degree even longer; so the choice to use antidepressant medication is a judgment made by the individual and his or her physician.

Certainly, if grief is associated with suicidal ideation, delusions, and severe grief recrimination, or the vegetative symptoms result in a prolonged loss of appetite such that overall health is impaired, it is more likely that antidepressant medications will be prescribed.

Kubler-Ross described the four stages of grief as denial, anger, bargaining, and acceptance. It is a common misconception that people go through these steps in sequence, but in fact these are experienced to varying degrees throughout the process of grieving. People spend more time in denial early in the process, and more time in acceptance later in the process.

Psychotherapy can sometimes help an individual who is “stuck” in the process of grieving. Frequently, pastoral counselors are most helpful at these times.

Dr. Kahn is Chief of Psychiatry at DeKalb Medical and in private practice with DeKalb Psychiatric Associates in Decatur. Contact Dr. Kahn at 2711 Irvin Way, Suite 211, Decatur, Georgia 30030.

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Our Town

Brookwood High School: A Building that Never Sleeps

By Rachael Brice Brookwood High School opened its doors to 1,100 students in 1981 to decrease the overflow at South Gwinnett and Parkview High Schools. Today, approximately 3,421 students roam the halls of the esteemed institute, gaining knowledge that will lead them to their next stages of life.

Principal Bo Ford takes great pride in the students at Brookwood and is proud of their many accomplishments.

The Class of 2014 alone had tremendous test scores – 1607 SAT and 23.5 ACT – and of the 802 graduates, 90% planned to continue secondary education at a 4-year college or university.

Last fall, Ford was named Brookwood’s newest principal.

He is the fifth principal of the highly regarded institution, having served as the assistant principal from 2007-2013.

Ford holds a Masters degree in Secondary Education from East Tennessee State University and a Specialist degree in Education Administration from Lincoln Memorial University. Before he became a Bronco, Ford taught and coached at Duluth and Sprayberry High Schools and a few smaller schools in Tennessee.

“Brookwood is simply the best,” he said. “I just wish there was more time to be here more.”

Brookwood strongly values excellence in academics, extracurricular activities, education, and family. The school has deep roots in tradition, and Ford plans on keeping those sacred traditions alive.

“I want to keep Brookwood, Brookwood,” Ford said. “I plan to continue to maintain and enhance the high expectations that have been set for the school, its students, parents, faculty, staff, and community members.”

Parental and community involvement is one major key that sets Brookwood apart from other public schools. Everyone is highly engaged with the high school and its student organizations, whether for academic reasons, an after-school club, or a championed sport.

It is no secret Brookwood has a long list of awards and achievements to match its well-rounded and gifted students.

So far this year the Academic Team was titled Gwinnett

County Champions, the Varsity boys Cross Country team placed second at State, both JV and Varsity girls Cross Country teams won their Region Championships, the Band received all Superior ratings at the Haralson High School Golden River Invitational where the Drumline placed first in class and first overall, the theatre department won its Region One Act Play Competition, the Mathematics team placed first place at the Rockdale Mathematics competition, and both the boys’ soccer and tennis teams were crowned as State Champions.

“There is always something going on and always something to cheer for,” Ford said. “It is a building that never sleeps.”

Not only do Brookwood students excel in academics and sports, they are also heavily involved in charitable efforts.

Helping Hands and Hearts (HHH) is a charity unique to Brookwood because it serves the entire community. The idea was initiated by Brookwood’s Student Government Association to raise funds for community members who are in great need. Last year HHH raised over $16,000, and they hope to surpass that amount this year.

While raising funds for HHH is one goal this year, another is the implementation of a new campaign called the Brookwood Upstander, which was developed to teach character development and cultivate student leaders. Citizenship, Advocacy, Respect, and Engagement (CARE) are the four pillars surrounding this campaign. The bottom line is to teach students to do things the right way.

“We don’t want our students to be bystanders,” Ford said.

“We want them to be Upstanders and make a difference.”

After thirty-three years of continued excellence, Brookwood High School has a lot to be proud of. Students and teachers may come and go, but the maroons and gold will live on to carry the school into its next thirty-three years.

Rediscover Your Go

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VISIONAIRE™ Patient Matched Technology, is an innovative new procedure that uses your MRI and X-Ray images to create specialized surgical instruments built just for you and your knee implant.

It’s time to put a stop to your chronic knee pain. Ask for the latest in knee replacement technologies.

Go to RediscoverYourGo.com today to find a surgeon who specializes in these technologies Based on laboratory wear simulation testing, the LEGION Primary Knee System with VERILAST Technology is expected to provide wear performance sufficient for 30 years of actual use under typical conditions. The results of laboratory wear simulation testing have not been proven to predict actual joint durability and performance in people. A reduction in wear alone may not result in improved joint durability and performance because other factors, such as bone structure, can affect joint durability and performance and cause medical conditions that may result in the need for additional surgery. These other factors were not studied as part of the testing.

There are potential risks with knee replacement surgery such as loosening, fracture, dislocation, wear and infection that may result in the need for additional surgery. Do not perform high impact activities such as running and jumping unless your surgeon tells you the bone has healed and these activities are acceptable. Early device failure, breakage or loosening may occur if you do not follow your surgeon’s limitations on activity level. Early failure can happen if you do not guard your knee joint from overloading due to activity level, failure to control body weight or accidents such as falls. Knee replacement surgery is intended to relieve knee pain and improve knee functions. Talk to your doctor to determine what treatment may be best for you. Additional information available at www.RediscoverYourGo.com or 888-825-2062. ™Trademark of Smith & Nephew. Certain marks Reg. US Pat. & TM Off.

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