JAN 2021: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

JANUARY 2021 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville

Up Close with Always Open Garage Door Services, see story on page 5.

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Getting to Know David Nelson: Archer High’s TOTY Community Spotlight: Creekwater Alpaca Farms Making a Difference: Girls in Gwinnett Scouts Jess in the Studio: Meet Jessica Wilson

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On the Cover: Always Open: The Garage Door Service that will Change Your Life

By Kristen Eleveld We’ve all been there. You’re late getting home and you decide to pull into your driveway a little faster than usual.

But you don’t quite brake in time, and your car manages to hit the garage door. Thankfully, this situation doesn’t usually result in injuries, but it does result in a dented garage door that isn’t going to open any time soon. Maybe you’re about to go out of town, or maybe the cold weather is going to ruin some of the items you keep in your garage. Whatever the case, there is a solution for your problem, and you can find it at Always Open Garage Door Services.

With over twenty years of experience, Mark and Dawn Matthieu have seen it all when it comes to garage door problems. Dented doors, broken sensors, and busted springs are just part of any other day for this husband-and-wife team.

“Sooner or later, everyone needs us,” said Dawn with a laugh.

She’s not wrong. Considering how many people have garages in the Gwinnett area and its surrounding cities, it’s no wonder that Always Open Garage Door Services has seen a steady stream of business since they opened in Gainesville over five years ago. Dawn attributes much of their success to a combination of two things: their expert knowledge and their dedication to customer service.

The expertise speaks for itself. Both Dawn and Mark have been in this industry for so long that they know everything there is to learn about repairing and replacing garage doors. In fact, Dawn noted that while so many people have garage doors, few people understand all of the options and

resources they have available for repairs.

“People tend to think of their garage doors and openers as disposable,” said Dawn. “But we can help extend the life of your garage equipment!”

Of course, it’s the dedication to customer service that keeps old and new clients alike coming back for more advice and services. When they say they’re Always Open, they mean it. Dawn is ready and waiting by the phone, and if you happen to catch her while she is already on a call, she will get back to you within an hour to see what their shop can do for you. Once Dawn connects with you, her first priority is to diagnose your issue, and, if you’re willing and able, walk you through the steps to make the repair yourself.

This is a service that Always Open Garage Door Services provides at no charge, because they are all about giving every client a good experience.

One of the most common issues are the safety eyes, which are the sensors at the bottom of the track that your garage door moves back and forth on. Typically, if the damage isn’t too extensive, Dawn can work with the client to help them correct the problem themselves. Her best tip is not to store any items near those safety eyes, because moving items near the sensor is usually what causes damage or misalignment.

If you do need Mark or Dawn to take a look at your door themselves, they can usually be there that same day, which means your problem is already close to being solved the moment you contact their shop.

“You will always find help here,” said Dawn. “We love to meet new people in our community.”

With such a high level of customer service, it’s no surprise

that every single Google Review of Always Open Garage Door Services gives this company five out of five stars.

Since they only work with residential clients, both Mark and Dawn have the chance to meet hundreds of different people.

When the Matthieus aren’t answering a call for repairing a door, you can usually find them out and about in the community. They are both active at their local church, and they volunteer at the South Hall Community Food Pantry in Oakwood, where Dawn also serves as a member of the board.

Continued on page 15

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IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: Always Open: The Garage Door Service that will Change Your Life 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 7 Learning Lessons: Tips to Raising a Child Who Cooperates with Others 7 Chaplain’s Corner: Bring it on 2021!

8 Photography Corner: DIY Newborn Photos at Home 11 Pet Perch: New Year, New Dog 11 Travel Tales: Open Up World -- Here We Come!

13 Leadership Corner: Tangible Ways Leaders Can Eliminate Stress and Reboot for 2021 13 Getting to Know David Nelson: Archer High’s TOTY 13 Gwinnett’s Breweries Have Something for Whatever “Ales” You 14 Snellville: Past, Present, and Future 16 Read Woke Challenge 17 Making a Difference: Girls in Gwinnett Scouts 17 Community Spotlight: Creekwater Alpaca Farms 19 Charlotte Nash Receives Atlanta Regional Commission’s Harry West Visionary Leadership

Award 19 Jess in the Studio: Meet Jessica Wilson 23 Gwinnett County Renames Water Supply Intake to Honor Wayne Mason

PAGE 6

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From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

@RyanTSauers

Goodbye 2020. Welcome 2021! Let me say that again: goodbye 2020 and welcome 2021. A year of new hopes, dreams, healing, love, fellowship, friends, family, and more that come with a new year. Who would have ever thought that terms such as social distancing, quarantine, or masks are required would become commonplace?

I have seen many people wish away 2020 at every opportunity. Trust me when I say that I am more than ready for a new year. In some ways it seems 2020 was a blur as it moved so slow yet also seemingly flew by at the same time. You know what I mean. However, I am thankful and challenge you to be thankful as well.

I am thankful to be alive. I am thankful for catching up with old friends. I am thankful for launching a new podcast and video show. I am thankful for surviving a serious bout with COVID. I am thankful for my family. I am thankful for all the business and community partners we have. I am thankful for our amazing team. I am thankful for getting back in shape. I am thankful that (during this pandemic) I finished my final classes of my doctorate in organizational leadership and now am ABD (all but dissertation and am officially a doctoral candidate). You see folks, there is a lot to be thankful for.

However, with that said, I am so ready for 2021. With every new year comes new ideas, resolutions, and dreams. I have spent the year thinking of so many new things, ideas, and business plans. There is a lot of growth in many new areas on the way, so please stay tuned.

However, getting the timing right is key. I will leave that timing to my own instincts and ultimately the Lord’s guidance.

With that said, this column is written to provide inspiration as we seek to make 2021 an Continued on page 8

Learning Lessons: Tips to Raising a Child Who Cooperates with Others

By Tanisha Turner

Rev. Dr. Rodrigo Cruz

Cooperation is a basic life skill that allows children to make friends and work successfully with others. The definition of cooperation is simple enough: combining energies to work towards a common goal. But teaching it can be a challenge as it requires a combination of character attributes, such as respect, honesty, patience, and thoughtfulness. Every parent wants his or her child to exhibit these skills, but they are tricky lessons to teach since young children are naturally focused on themselves. The good news is that cooperation can be learned over time through purposeful activities and frequent encouragement from parents and caregivers.

We know that children learn character mainly through imitation. They listen, observe, and learn cooperation skills by watching the words and actions of their caregivers and parents.

When your child sees you working happily with others, he will sense the joy you feel and want to experience that joy, too. By practicing cooperative skills in front of your child, you are teaching behaviors that will ultimately help your child succeed.

Here are some ways you can model cooperation: • Listen carefully to others so that you can understand what they are saying.

• Share or take turns when more than one person wants the same thing. Start at home with family conversations that allow everyone time to talk.

• Compromise when you have a serious conflict.

• Do your part of a shared task and do the very best that you can. When you complete your task, ask others how you might help them complete their work.

• Show appreciation for what people contribute to a group or team.

• Encourage others to do their best.

• Include everyone and make everyone feel needed. Help your child recognize that everybody has something valuable to offer in a group.

Continued on page 15

Our Town Gwinnett

Chaplain’s Corner: Bring it on 2021!

If you are reading this, then that means you made it through 2020. It may not have been pretty, but you made it.

As I reflect on this past year, I can sadly say that I have seen friends close their businesses because of the economy, I have had family members die because of COVID-19, and I have seen friends and neighbors struggle throughout the year because of the pandemic.

On the other hand, I cannot reflect on 2020 without acknowledging the good things that I have witnessed as well. I have seen people being generous with their time, talents, and treasures in order to come alongside friends, family, and strangers during these times.

Yes, 2020 was a rough year, but it also showed us that there are plenty of people out there who have a huge regard for human lives and for blessing others.

Therefore, it is hard to look back at 2020 and simply have bad memories since it has been precisely because of those challenges that the best has been brought out of many people, and for that I am thankful.

So, as we embrace 2021 and all the unknowns that it may bring to us, I want to encourage you to find ways to bless others. May this be the year where your generosity overwhelms people. May this be the year that something that you do for others will mark their lives forever. May this be the year that changes people’s lives.

If 2020 has taught us anything, it is that we as individuals have the opportunity and ability to do good to others no matter what. So, let us find the broken, and do good.

Rodrigo Cruz is the Lead Pastor of The Nett Church.

More info at http://www.thenettchurch.com/

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Ryan’s Remarks Continued from page 7 incredible year in the Our Town Gwinnett community. My question is simple: How bad do you want to grow as a person this year?

If you want something bad enough, you will find a way to achieve it. You will desire to solve things and make life better for everyone. In contrast, if you do not want something bad enough, you will find an excuse and complain about all the things “happening to you and around you.” Simply said, it is the way human beings are wired.

So, you see, we have two choices. The first is to stand around and complain and be frustrated about how things are. The second is to do anything in our power to develop a plan and/or find a way to make things better. In this new year, I challenge you to push harder and dig deeper in every aspect of your life. Please set goals for yourself that you can track and achieve. We all can go deeper. Do not be afraid to fail. As my little green friend Yoda says in Star Wars, “The greatest teacher...failure is.” Also, do not be afraid to be your authentic self.

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There are three types of people in the world: those who make things happen; those who watch things happen; and those who wonder what happened. Thus, plan your work and work your plan so you can grow – in all parts of your life – in a deliberate, purposeful, and intentional manner. This will lead to success in 2021 (no matter what you encounter) and you will grow and help everyone around you grow to even greater heights in the process.

Thanks for being part of our amazing community. Thanks for your support in 2020. Our team is so proud to have played a role in bringing you positive news during this pandemic.

Here is to a great 2021. And now and as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

Photography Corner: DIY Newborn Photos at Home

By Aleen Karakashian, Photographer We are going through such hard times! I cannot imagine what it is like to bring a newborn home during this season of life. If you cannot hire a professional photographer because of health issues, I do not want you to miss out on incredible portraits of your newborn. Here is a simple way to ensure you have something for his/her future.

You will need: A nursing pillow (ex: Boppy Pillow), a sizeable white bedsheet, your phone (or camera), chairs/ tabletop, and access to natural light from a window at home.

Find a large window at your home where you get good natural light. If you do not know which window gets good sunlight, pay attention to different areas of your home for the next two days and see which room has the most sunlight in the morning. Your setup will be right there.

The baby’s head should be close to the window, while some feet away from the window.

You, the photographer, will be in front of the baby, not blocking the sunlight. Next, we want to set up the bedsheet as a backdrop. If you are using your dining room as a setup, turn two chairs around, use the back of those chairs to hang the sheet from, spread it on the table, covering most of it, including the nursing pillow. Your nursing pillow is a great way to prop your baby’s head and chest up while the rest of his body is slightly dipped below. If you have large glass doors, you may choose to set up on the floor and use an ottoman. For instance, spread the sheets from there to the floor, covering the nursing pillow and more. Also, remember safety first, and please make sure an adult is always watching the baby.

Now, it’s picture time. For a classic look, dress the baby in a white onesie. Place your newborn on his tummy. His hands are resting under his face on the pillow. Try your best to keep the sheets from folding too much in the backdrop (use clamps if needed).

Make the best of the portrait feature on your phone and focus on your baby’s face. Take some straight-on shots while level with the ground, and then move closer for a close-up of fingers, toes, and those chunky rolls. I hope you enjoy this and please share your pictures with me. Also, if you think this article was helpful, please let me know.

More information at www.aleenkarakashian.com

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Pet Perch: New Year, New Dog

By Terie Hansen A dog can learn new things at any age. If you have been living with a dog that has less than desirable behaviors, there is no time like the present to make some change!

Obedience training can change your dog’s behavior dramatically. Start with simple commands like sit or down.

Teach your dog one new command every couple of weeks.

Make sure to have a leash on your dog so that you have control when needed and can guide your dog into position.

Teach the commands with an implied stay. The sit, for example, does not just mean to sit down for a moment.

It means to sit and keep sitting until you release the dog.

There should be no need to even say, “Stay.”

At first, just do drills – having your dog sit for a moment and then release him or her by

Travel Tales: Open Up World -- Here We Come!

By Pam Walker Yay! The vaccine is here! Slowly but surely, it is being delivered throughout the world. We just might be able to travel again.

The year 2021 is looking better and better for that trip you wanted to take last year. Cruises, that were postponed until late February and some even until November, are beginning to operate with new CDC guidelines. Travel to many parts of Africa is possible now. It is summer there, so it is a great time for a safari. Several South American countries are now open, and international flights are beginning to others. Have you ever been to the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador? There are more animals than humans. Have you ever seen a blue-footed booby bird? Go now before the larger cruise ships come back.

Europe is slowly opening now that the vaccine has become available. Yes, there are still places in Spain and France that are very restrictive, but who wants to go in the winter months anyway? In the spring, all those beautiful places will hopefully be open so you can enjoy the lavender fields of Provence or hike the Camino de Santiago (the Way of St. James) in northern Spain. Italy opens officially on Jan 15, 2021, and cruise lines are already planning stops in ports along the way. Greece is also open for explorations.

Most of these countries are requiring negative PCR tests before you arrive, but you must get results anywhere from 72 hours prior up to 5 days prior to arrival. Many countries are requiring that you register before you arrive and that you have evacuation insurance, too.

Continued on page 20

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saying, “Let’s go.” Repeat in a fast drill-like fashion. Think of it like times tables. The quick repetitions help your dog learn the command quickly.

Over time you need to start adding duration, which means the length of time you have the dog hold command. You will also need to slowly add in distractions, which teaches your dog that even when there are distractions, he or she must remain in command. If your dog moves out of command, simply repeat the command, and use the leash to guide your pet back into position.

Once your dog is familiar with a command, start incorporating it into your daily routine. Make your dog sit before going out any doors, before getting food, and before you give him or her treats, toys, or affection.

Be consistent and never give your dog a command that you are not able to reinforce. Over time, with lots of patterning, your dog will become proficient in each new command. It is a new year, and you can have a new dog. It is good for you and your dog!

Terie Hansen, Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More information at www.gooddogcoaching.com

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Leadership Corner: Tangible Ways Leaders Can Eliminate Stress and Reboot for 2021

Getting to Know David Nelson: Archer High’s TOTY

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

As a challenging year has just finished, organizations are sifting through what worked and what didn’t as they prepare to reboot for 2021 after dealing with the many difficulties brought on by the pandemic.

If a business is planning significant changes in its operations in the New Year, the leadership team’s empathy for the workforce is vital in the process, says Joel Patterson, a workplace culture expert, founder of The Vested Group, and ForbesBooks author of The Big Commitment: Solving the Mysteries of Your ERP Implementation.

“Leaders need to be empathetic to help their employees manage stress and stay productive, especially in these unprecedented times,” Patterson says. “The holidays always add stress, but company transitions heading into the New Year, magnified by the uncertainty we all face due to COVID-19, can send that stress off the charts.

“For example, when a company installs new software or makes other major changes in operations and processes, the end-users and middle managers can feel it as the company tries to ensure those transitions are smooth. Having the human touch from company leadership is critical, as is providing proper training and giving confidence to middle management as their teams implement those systems.”

Patterson offers tips on how leaders can lower stress and keep morale high while implementing changes: • Start with Acknowledging the Emotional Side of Change. “There are unexpected twists and turns to any big change in company operations,” Patterson says. “Employees

By Emily Rubin The first semester of the 2020-2021 school year was slightly different in every school. While many things changed, Teacher of the Year honors remained constant, and Archer High School teacher David Nelson was awarded the title this year.

David, who teaches 11th grade honors and AP physics, was nominated by the Archer High School faculty in September.

After his nomination, David answered some questions about his teaching philosophy and what he does in the classroom to help students.

“My philosophy is to be a positive role model for my students while presenting a thorough and intensive coverage of the county Academic Knowledge and Skills curriculum and to instill in my students a belief that they can accomplish anything and have the confidence to try,” David said.

In October, Archer High School officially announced the winner of Teacher of the Year.

Before the announcement was made, the Archer principal visited David’s classroom to give him balloons and congratulate him.

“If it’s a female Teacher of the Year, they normally bring that teacher flowers,” David explained. “And because I’m a male, they brought me a Honey Baked Ham. It was great.”

Along with the Honey Baked Ham, David received a plaque for his award and other Teacher of the Year items, including a shirt, a cup, and a pen and pencil set from the county.

He also received a gift card and a ring.

This isn’t the first time David has won Teacher of the Year. He worked for twenty-one years at Brookwood High School and was awarded the title in 2005.

Following each school’s Teacher of the Year’s announcement is a banquet where the district-wide winner is announced. The banquet is usually in-person, but because of the

Continued on page 14

Continued on page 14

Frothy, Fruity, Hoppy, Sour – Gwinnett’s Breweries Have Something for Whatever “Ales” You

By Beth Volpert Johansen Gwinnett County is growing in countless ways. Despite the curveballs that 2020 threw in all directions, Gwinnettians are finding ways to survive and, in many cases, thrive. One thing that has been a constant on social media is the idea that people need people. To that end, one locally growing industry has found that providing a place for neighbors to greet neighbors in a spacious atmosphere was part of the plan all along. They just did not realize the potential for their business to meet and exceed the basic need for people to be social all while remaining socially distant.

Since September of 2017 when Slow Pour Brewing Company first opened its doors in an old factory just off the Lawrenceville Square, Marty Mazzawi and his brother-in-law, John Reynolds, have steadily been creating a “new nostalgia.” Complete with a popular beer garden, event space, and tasting room, Slow Pour has established their brand: The Moment Matters. “We tell our team members that we don’t sell beer,” Reynolds says. “We sell an experience, hospitality, and an environment that provides a place for people to slow the pace of life and enjoy the moments that matter – together. Beer is the product that helps us create the space where people can socialize and connect.”

While the Slow Pour team hit the mark with atmosphere, they hit it out of the ballpark with taste. Solidly centered around it is Nostalgia and Southernality India Pale Ales and Cotillion Blonde, Slow Pour has established a rotating limited release menu as well as seasonal favorites. “The reason for our core brand name, Nostalgia, is because everyone is always looking at these nostalgic moments in life,” explains Reynolds. “The art on the cans is reflective of that nostalgia and includes things like 8 track tapes, CD’s, cassettes, xylophones. These are different ways to deliver old school and new school music, and that represents the blend of old school and new school hops used in our brewing.”

Pioneering the brewery movement in Gwinnett led to other brewers taking note, but according to Reynolds, the popularity of breweries as family (and pup) friendly destinations is enhanced by the variety of offerings. “Gwinnett is in a healthy spot for additional growth,” says Reynolds. “We have a good list of really quality beer here in Gwinnett County, and for our size, we should have our fair share of breweries.” Neighborhood breweries are popular

Our Town Gwinnett

in Atlanta, and Gwinnett’s vibrant offerings are a draw for families, singles, couples, and residents from all walks of life.

Echoing the sentiment is brewery neighbor Ironshield Brewing, which is also located near the historic and popular Lawrenceville Square. “We were in the construction phase when COVID-19 hit,” explains Ironshield Operations Manager Edi Sprouse. “It was full steam ahead on construction; we were able to open with a design that supported social-distancing and added to the idea that Gwinnett is becoming a brewery destination.”

Ironshield Brewing specializes in bringing the flavors of European and German ales to the area. “We also differ in that we make and package cans and kegs for other breweries all over the US and Puerto Rico,” says Edi. “Stepping inside to see our canning and kegging line is sort of like watching an episode of How It’s Made.” While fully automated for canning and kegging, Ironshield also offers a spacious beer garden and tap room perfect for relaxing by a fire or chatting at a social distance.

Also offering spacious family and dog friendly tap room options is the award-winning StillFire Brewing located in downtown Suwanee. StillFire Brewing co-founders Randall Veugeler and John Bisges both had the same dream of one day owning a brewery after college. Like many great ideas, plans for StillFire began with a conversation between the two.

Their vision for the brewery included space that could spark conversations, not unlike their own. That spark is symbolized in the company’s logo and tagline: Find Your Fire.

StillFire General Manager Aaron Bisges finds common ground with Slow Pour and Ironshield Breweries in that he believes that Gwinnett’s identity as a vibrant community can support local brewing as a destination. “Our primary mission and goals include brewing awesome beer and creating a community-friendly neighborhood experience,” says Aaron.

“We encourage people of all ages to enjoy each other’s company in a spacious and inviting setting.”

With a playground, two patios, fireside seating, and huge rolling doors, StillFire can accommodate musicians, food trucks, tap room, trivia, and gatherings of various sizes. A gleaming brewery can be seen through glass walls just beyond a generously sized bar that Continued on page 23

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PAGE 13

Snellville: Past, Present, and Future

By Beth Volpert-Johansen A quick look at the City of Snellville’s website gives the impression of a city on the “grow.” Community Forums are filled with conversation threads that wind their way through the pros and cons of various projects, a little like the way Wisteria Drive and Oak Roads wind their way through downtown.

A more modern extension of those connecting motorways will be the addition of the Greenway Trail. The project will provide a trail system around the city’s The Grove at Towne Center development. Connecting the City’s past and future, the Greenway Trail will link to the growing Gwinnett County Greenway Network designed to connect people with places within the county and into the metro area.

Continually empowering the vibrancy of the community is the Snellville Farmers’ Market, which will continue offering fresh produce on two Saturdays a month throughout the fall, winter, and spring. “We will have farmers’ markets on the first and third Saturdays of each month, October 2020 through May 2021, from 9:00 a.m. to noon in the City Hall parking lot,” said Market Organizer and Councilwoman Gretchen Schulz. “Our first Saturday markets will feature 15-20 of the vendors you have enjoyed patronizing all summer long.

Our third Saturday markets will focus on farm products, which we are doing to support our farmers who can greatly benefit from a second market during the month.”

Fostering a sense of collaboration and innovation, The Grove at Towne Center is designed to benefit everyone from the entrepreneur to the youngest leaders. “This project is a major piece in our goal to create great places to live, play, work, learn, and shop in Snellville,” says Mayor Barbara Bender. “The Grove at Towne Center’s design and its connections to existing parks via greenways and neighborhoods will be a wonderful place where community and commerce meet.” When completed, The Grove will offer luxury multi-family residential units, a parking deck, a unique City Market with special event space included, the new Elizabeth Williams Public Library, and numerous dining and shopping options.

Weaving the past into the present, the newest rendition of the Elizabeth Williams Public Library will offer so much more than just books, just like the lady herself. Marlene Buchanan of the Snellville Historical Society describes Elizabeth Williams as having been an amazing teacher and community member. “Mrs. Williams graduated from the Snellville Consolidated School in 1932,” says Buchanan. “She returned in 1943 as a teacher who was known for a keen sense of humor and her strict classroom discipline.” She was also known to have inspired many children both in school and out. “Each day,” Buchanan continues, “she would read classics to her students and oversaw the drama department where she orchestrated many plays and events for the community. Ms. Elizabeth even ‘called’ the square dances!”

Elizabeth’s legacy of educating the community will live on in the new library. “It is more than just a library,” says Brian Arrington. “The new center will encompass educational space for satellite campuses and a community learning center as well as a library.” In addi-

Leadership Corner Continued from page 13 have to adjust to new processes – sometimes, after having done things the same way for many years. This learning curve can understandably cause panic. Employees can be resistant to learning how to make it work to their advantage. Leaders need to expect these reactions and develop a plan based on empathy to deal with it.”

• Know How to Listen. “True listening means listening with open ears, open eyes, and an open heart,” Patterson explains. “It means paying attention to body language, to the tone of voice, to the hidden emotions behind what’s being said. You’ll always gain more from listening than from speaking.”

• Know What Empathy is. “For a leader, empathy is more than listening and nodding your understanding; it understands that your employees have their working and communicating styles and a life separate from work,” Patterson says. “In stressful, uncomfortable times like these when change is thrust upon them, you can stay connected with them by making them feel more comfortable. Leaders can begin to do that when they put themselves in their employees’ shoes to understand things from their perspective better.”

• Build a Culture of Psychological Safety. Allowing people to feel free to air their concerns and speak their truths during Change and upheaval can do wonders for the work culture in the long run. “The foundation becomes stronger because of the trust factor,” Patterson adds. “Leaders understand the challenges that exist through the organization, which helps them be more effective in leading their teams through change.”

• Emphasize “Change Energy” over “Change Fatigue.” “The best organizations understand that there is no endpoint to change,” Patterson says. “Change is for the greater good of continual evolution collectively and individually. Therefore, there are no excuses like being fatigued by Change. Instead, leaders need to sell Change as a necessary energizer

PAGE 14

tion, the location will connect the government with local students. “The key to our Snellville Youth Commission (SYC) program is in the link it provides between local government and the schools,” Arrington adds.

Promoting the value that students bring to the city can be found on the City of Snellville’s website, which says, “Businesses want places where productivity and creativity increase and where professional networks foster collaboration and innovation. This is the essence behind the collaborative nature of The Grove at Towne Center and the entrepreneur and small business programs offered by the collaborative partners of the city. In addition, the city partners with South Gwinnett High School, Brookwood High School, Grayson High School, and the community at large to support and encourage business development, and the engaging mission of the second floor of the Elizabeth Williams building that will offer Gwinnett Tech classes and co-working space.”

Describing the SYC as a youth leadership organization that seeks to prepare our young people for a lifetime of public and community service is at the heart of Councilwoman Cristy Lenski’s personal service as the creator of the SYC. “SYC students are selected by an Adult Advisory Board based on a rigorous application and interview process,” says Lenski.

“After graduation, students are then invited to serve on the SYC Adult Advisory Board.”

No doubt, Elizabeth Williams would be pleased with the efforts of the SYC. “I think the new library would tickle her to no end,” says Buchanan. “She was the most delightful person I ever met.”

As a present-day teacher at South Gwinnett High School, Lenski witnessed the obvious rivalry between the Snellville area schools. Her own goals aligned closely with those of Elizabeth Williams. “As a City Council Member, I knew it would be incredibly powerful to unite the students in the implementation of a sustainable and civic-oriented student leadership team,” she explains. “Now, we have participants from Brookwood, Grayson, Shiloh, and South Gwinnett High Schools. Our teens have gained insight into the growing multicultural aspects of Snellville and Gwinnett County.”

Councilwoman Lenski and Mayor Barbara Bender are no doubt proud of what the students have accomplished as they have served as the city’s ambassadors, made presentations before mayor and council, interacted with business and civic leaders, planned and hosted community youth summits, and developed and refined their leadership skills. “In short,” says Lenski. “They have become the face of our city.”

With this outlook, the future looks bright indeed. Weaving the old with the new in a stateof-the-art building located within a carefully planned live-work project will create a space that combines the historical energy of a vibrant town ready to take the next step on a long and winding path towards the future.

More information at www.snellville.org/the-towne-center-snellville that benefits everyone. Show the workforce how the new systems can work in their favor, not against them.”

“Empathy gives you insight into what others are feeling and thinking,” Patterson concludes. “At its foundation, empathy informs your decision-making by sharpening your perceptions and intuition.”

More information at www.JoelPatterson.com,

David Nelson Continued from page 13 pandemic, the celebration was held virtually.

David has kept with his philosophy of teaching even though the school year has been unusual. His largest class of in-person students is 12, with the rest participating from home.

One of his classes only has four in-person students.

David recognizes that not all of his students have great technology and Wi-Fi. Some students don’t have cameras on their computers so he can’t see them while teaching.

“You just have to trust sometimes that they’re engaged in the class and doing what they’re supposed to be doing,” David said. “I know it’s really a challenge for them, and it’s a very difficult time to be a student. Unfortunately, sometimes life doesn’t always go the way you want it to go, and you just have to work at it and persevere and do the best you can.”

Given the difficult circumstances they’ve been faced with this semester, David is proud of his students continuing to work hard. His students are proud of him, too, and the students who were in class when David was announced Teacher of the Year congratulated him.

“I’ve been really proud of my classes,” David said. “They’re great kids, and they’ve worked hard under difficult situations.”

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

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Learning Lessons Continued from page 7 In addition to serving as a role model, it’s important to be intentional about teaching cooperation to your child. Use the following every day activities as opportunities to encourage your child to cooperate with family and friends: • When you read a story with your child, point out times when the characters cooperate with each other. Discuss how the characters feel and how much easier it is to accomplish the task when they work together.

• Schedule household chores at times when all family members can work together to finish them. Praise your child for her attempts to help, and refrain from redoing the chore when she’s finished. Help her see the fun of working together to accomplish a goal. Talk about how much faster the chores were completed than if mom or dad had to do it alone. Point out how cooperation with chores allows for more time for family fun.

• “Catch” your child sharing or helping someone and show your appreciation. Encourage the behavior, but refrain from giving material rewards. They are not necessary. Children should learn the joy of helping others without expecting something in return.

By taking advantage of these moments and creating learning opportunities for your child, you will help him understand the importance of cooperation. Working together becomes fun for children as they develop an understanding of the skills and techniques needed to achieve a common goal.

Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com.

On the Cover: Always Open Continued from page 5 “It’s very important to us that no one goes hungry in the community,” Dawn said of what inspires them to volunteer and give back.

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PAGE 15

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By Traci Sanders Lewis also received the 2019 National Teacher Award for Lifelong Readers administered jointly by the National The 2020 School Library Journal National Librarian of the Year, Cicely Lewis, is so Council of Teachers of English and Penguin Random passionate about books and educating students through literature that she recently started a House. This award honors a teacher who inspires his or program called Read Woke at Meadowcreek High School. This is not your run-of-the-mill her students to read all genres of writing, and it comes reading challenge, however. It’s built around books that have shaped our culture throughout with a $10,000 grant, which will help support the expantime. As the website states: “Read Woke is a movement. It is a feeling. It is a style. It is a sion of Lewis’s Read Woke program. form of education. It is a call to action; it is our right as lifelong learners. It means arming One might ask, “What is a ‘Woke’ book?” To Lewis it yourself with knowledge in order to better protect your rights.” is a book that must “challenge a social norm; giveto a voice When it comes to When it comes finding the perfect roof The movement is focused on learning about others so we can treat people with the respect to the voiceless; provide information about a group that for your your home we have a HUGEroof selection home we When it to finding the perfect and dignity they deserve no matter their religion, race, creed, or color.

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Making a Difference: Girls in Gwinnett Scouts

By Traci Sanders

Stephanie Puerto is the fourth and fifth grade leader to two all-female dens for the Northeast Georgia District Cub Scout Pack in Gwinnett County. This year was truly historic because for the first time ever, females were able to apply for Eagle Rank since Scouts of America removed their longstanding restrictions on female participation.

The Cub Scout Program for this age level allows girls to get involved in various activities that develop character, offer leadership training, encourage personal fitness, and promote citizenship to prepare them for adulthood. The girls participate in community events as a pack and as individuals. Some of these events include volunteer cleanup at Georgia’s Project Chimp Center as part of a World Conservation Project, and ringing the donation bell at local businesses for the Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Program.

The pack is also partnering with local paramedics, firefighters, and a sheriff deputy to showcase how they are bridging the gap between youth and community leaders. They also gathered to honor local veterans and to present them with Hero awards.

COVID-19 has forced these groups of young women to become creative in planning adventures to meet their badge requirements. The two dens that Puerto leads are smaller, allowing them to meet regularly for Den and Pack meetings. Temperature checks, face masks, and social distancing are required at these meetings.

Puerto and the other leaders encourage parents to get as involved as their schedules allow.

Surveys are distributed early in the season to identify what skills or connections a parent may have that could be beneficial for adventure planning. One of the parents works at the CDC and was able to set up a virtual scientist panel discussion and tour so the girls were able to see scientists actively working on the COVID-19 vaccine, which tied into the Science Adventure experience for the older scouts.

Puerto also has connections with local neighborhood and community officials to set up VIP tours with law enforcement and firefighters, and to receive customized first-aid training as well. “It’s really amazing to see how many parents and community members want to go above and beyond to invest time into our next generation,” she stated. “However, we have parents that simply don’t have the time available, and they find comfort in knowing their child is participating in a safe and educational environment (staying off the phones and iPads) and are having fun doing it.”

The girls are excited about their first major construction project, building and installing kiosks to donate to the Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Committee. This project will be reinforcing the den’s Tool Safety and Building knowledge. They also partnered with the local Marine Reserves to host a toy drive for Toys for Tots, as well as adopting a family from North Gwinnett Co-op for the holidays.

The Cub Scout motto is “Do your best” and these dens are setting out to create an incluContinued on page 19

Community Spotlight: Creekwater Alpaca Farms

By Kristen Eleveld

The year 2020 isn’t likely to be voted anyone’s favorite.

But there is still time to make fun, thanks to a local alpaca farm. Yes, you read that right – there is a farm full of cute, cuddly alpacas, not to mention some other great animals, that are ready and waiting for your visit.

Founded in Snellville in 1993, Creekwater Alpacas Farms is home to over fifty alpacas – a source of fun and education for thousands of Gwinnett residents. Unique in both the furry residents it keeps and the experience it provides, Creekwater Alpacs Farms is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. Along with the alpacas, they also host goats, sheep, pigs, guinea fowl, a pony, and even some miniature horses.

During a typical year, the farm is open to the public seven days a week for visitors to come at their leisure. In an effort to maintain social distance and to adhere to CDC recommenContinued on page 19

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Nash Receives Atlanta Regional Commission’s Harry West Visionary Leadership Award

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff In recognition of her significant contributions to Gwinnett County and the entire Atlanta region, Gwinnett Board of Commissioners Chairman Charlotte Nash received the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Harry West Visionary Leadership Award for 2020.

Jess in the Studio: Meet Jessica Wilson

By Beth Volpert Johansen

Finding your way when your diploma is clearly stamped 2020 might seem like more of a challenge to recent graduates than it might have been just one year ago. Clearly, with COVID-19 changing how everything is done, graduating from college could certainly be a let-down. But, for Georgia Bulldog Jessica Wilson, graduation meant freedom of expression. And, in a seemingly COVID-controlled world, freedom turned out to be just another word for “nothing left to lose.” Not unlike singer Janis Joplin who made those words famous with her signature smoky voice firmly securing her place in the history of pop-culture references, Jessica grasped pop-culture from across the decades and began to paint with abandon.

Pulling from her constantly evolving style, tempered by the hues of her ability to combine all things past, present, and future, Jessica has produced impressive results. “My Pop Art and Pop Culture series is one I started and desire to continue to run with for the foreseeable future,” says Jessica. “I love this series so much because it brings color, humor, and boldness to the world.”

Her paintings combine well thought-out pattern and color choices that lend a special twist to portraits of celebrities from all walks of life. She has even created a playful yellow submarine mural and illustrated a children’s book during the long hours spent alone due to the University of Georgia’s COVID-19 guidelines.

“I believe the possibilities for this series are endless,” Jessica continues. Adding the humor of memes to her Andy Warhol and Ashley Longshore-inspired pop style gives Jessica’s art a decidedly fearless edge. “The people around me provide inspiration and humor that shows on the canvas.”

Talented from the start, Jessica had some of her first pieces placed in the High Museum of Art Student Exhibition and the Atlanta Dogwood Festival while she was still in high school. Recently, Jessica has displayed pieces from her new Pop Art and Pop Culture series in two shows in Atlanta. Her first show was at 5th Street Tapas bar in Midtown, followed by her most recent show at Monday Night Brewing Garage. She attracted a large crowd at the brewery show and sold several pieces.

In addition to her impressive portfolio and a variety of commissions over her young career, in the summer of 2020 Jessica had her first chance to paint on the largest scale. Nedza’s, a new restaurant in Athens, hired Jessica to design and paint two murals. The experience was fun and fresh and allowed the young artist to leave a bit of her heart behind for the Bulldogs to remember her by.

More information at JessInTheStudio.com.

Alpaca Farms Continued from page 17 dations for safety, the farm now offers private tours Monday through Friday, and remains open for public, unscheduled tours on Saturday and Sunday. With around fifteen people to a private group and a knowledgeable tour guide leading the way, the private tours have become a hit for the Snellville community and surrounding areas. Even the public tours, while selfguided, are limited to fifteen people to ensure that the tour remains safe for each visitor.

“It’s a relaxing experience!” said Christina Cruz, who recently joined the Creekwater team and handles the social media and marketing side of the business. “The alpacas are very gentle and friendly.”

The alpacas are so friendly that Christina has noticed that many visitors return just so they can visit with their favorite alpaca. Each animal has its own distinct personality, and people of all ages find themselves drawn back to visit and feed their new furry friends over and over again.

The fun doesn’t stop when the tour ends. Each guest has a chance to visit the gift shop where you will find some soft, furry alpaca-fiber socks, headbands, and other accessories, courtesy of the very animals that live on the farm. You can also find gloves and hats to keep

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Nash, who is retiring after almost forty years in public service, joined the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) board in 2011 and has held a variety of leadership roles across the region, including chairman of the Transportation and Air Quality Committee; member and chair of the Metropolitan North Georgia Water Planning District board; chief local elected official on the Atlanta Regional Workforce Development Board; and member of the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority board.

“Charlotte has been one of the most active and impactful, members of the ARC Board.

That’s probably an understatement,” said Kerry Armstrong, ARC board chairman. “She has brought a deep wealth of knowledge, perspective, and wisdom to the table that will be sorely missed. Charlotte has been more than a member of the ARC board. She has been a leader – in words, which are few. And in deeds, which are too many to count.”

Her career began as Gwinnett County’s grants manager in 1977, and she served as county administrator for nine years before leaving in 2004. She ran for Board of Commissioners chairman in 2011 out of her devotion to the county she has called home her entire life.

The Harry West Visionary Leadership Award was established in memory of ARC’s longest-serving executive director, who exemplified courageous and visionary leadership throughout his career in the public, private, and university sectors.

“The ARC has played a huge role in shaping metro Atlanta for the better, and Harry West was one of the driving forces at the ARC whose positive influence is still felt even today,” Nash said. “To receive this award named after him is a great honor. I’m humbled and grateful to have been selected from among so many deserving people.”

Gwinnett County Administrator Glenn Stephens praised Nash for her vision and dedication to making metro Atlanta a better place to live.

“It has been an honor to work with and support Chairman Nash during her tenure both on the ARC board as well as Chairman of Gwinnett County,” he said. “I humbly believe that Chairman Nash has provided an example of the regional thinking, planning, and innovation that would make Mr. West proud, and that we will continue to see her positive impact on our region for years to come.”

Each year, the physical award is passed from one recipient to the next. It is a turned wooden bowl of Red “Leopard” Maple crafted by Phillip Moulthrop, the middle of three generations of Marietta wood turners.

The bowl, which was made from a raw piece of wood that through vision, skill, and determination was turned into something of lasting beauty and value, symbolizes visionary leadership. Nash received the award during the ARC board meeting, which was held virtually.

Gwinnett Scouts Continued from page 17 sive, fun environment where boys AND girls can discover interests they otherwise might not have known they have. “There are not a lot of programs, for girls especially, that encourage outdoor training, science activities, disability awareness, and inclusivity training (to name a few) all bundled in fun, memorable experiences,” Puerto added.

It’s not too late to join a Den. Puerto and other leaders are always looking for more scouts and volunteers to help grow the female footprint in the Scouts program.

More information at https://beascout.scouting.org/. you warm during the colder months.

When the weather is good, the farm encourages people to make a day out of their visit and bring a picnic to enjoy on the lawn after they finish their tour. With over forty acres of land, there is no shortage of space for you and your family to find a spot outdoors. While it may seem like this experience is geared toward kids, Christina says the farm plays host to people of all ages. She has seen couples on dates, adults celebrating birthdays, families who just moved to the area – everyone is welcome to enjoy the fun that the farm brings.

“We want people to know we’re here and that we want to be a resource for your family,” said Christina. “This is something safe and fun for your family to enjoy.”

Giving people an experience they enjoy is a high priority for Creekwater Alpaca Farms, and they encourage visitors to take photos and selfies to share with the community so everyone can be part of the fun. You might even see your photo on the farm’s social media platforms, which can be found on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

“I really enjoy hearing everyone’s excitement and about their experience,” said Christina.

“Hearing how much they love the farm really touches my heart.”

End this year by making some new friends – who just happen to be the county’s friendliest alpacas.

More information at cwafarm.com

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PAGE 19

Read Woke Challenge Continued from page 16

Travel Tales Continued from page 11

oppressed group.”

Through the Read Woke Challenge, Lewis is confident that the students will develop higher reading comprehension levels, interpret texts from different genres, perform critical thinking tasks, and make connections with text in order to compare and contrast with current social injustices in their community.

Another great aspect to the Read Woke Challenge is that it encourages an appreciation for physical fitness. At the end of the challenge, Lewis will offer a diagnostic survey that will measure the students’ knowledge of social injustice issues. Lewis will also provide quizzes that assess the students’ knowledge of the reading material in general. In addition, the students will be timed on exercise bikes to see who can read and exercise the longest.

The Read Woke Challenge is accomplishing two very important goals with our youth: educating and informing them about great people in history who challenged social norms, and inspirig the students to stay healthy and fit by making reading fun.

More information at www.readwoke.com

To find out more of the “rules of the road” for each country, the International Air Transport Association or IATA has an excellent website that you should check when you decide to go: https:// www.iatatravelcentre.com/world.php Most importantly, be sure you have the best information. Contact your professional travel advisor, and do not just book online on a website that you are not familiar with. It would be terrible to get to your destination just to turn around and come home because of some detail that a website didn’t tell you about.

I’m ready to go again. Are you?

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor.

More information at pam@walkeradventures.com

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Our Town Gwinnett

Gwinnett County Renames Water Supply Intake to Honor Wayne Mason

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff Gwinnett County officials formally dedicated the Wayne Mason Water Supply Intake Facility to honor former Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairman Wayne Mason. Originally known as the Lanier Raw Water Intake, the facility has been renamed in Mason’s honor for his vision in establishing a robust water and sewer system to accommodate growth in the county.

“Back in the 1970s, Wayne recognized before anyone that for Gwinnett to grow and be an economic power, we had to have an expansive and reliable water and sewer system,” said Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Charlotte Nash. “He also was willing to take steps to make that happen. Without his vision, determination, and energy, Gwinnett would not be the great place it is today.”

Mason said he felt humbled to have the water supply intake facility – which provides water to hundreds of thousands of residents and to tens of thousands of businesses – bear his name.

“Gwinnett has given a lot to me, and I just tried to give something back to Gwinnett,” he said.

“We had to make a lot of tough decisions back then. I was fortunate to serve with people who would do what was best for the county without regard to how it would affect their re-election.

It took unity of purpose by many people to get where we are today.”

Mason served as a district commissioner from 1973 through 1976 and as chairman of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners from 1977 through 1980. He also served as chairman of the Gwinnett County Water and Sewerage Authority. During his years of service, he helped secure critical funding for major water and sewer projects that formed the foundation for today’s award-winning Gwinnett County water and sewer system.

He also was instrumental in obtaining permission from the US Army Corps of Engineers for Gwinnett to withdraw water directly from Lake Lanier. This set the stage for Gwinnett to have a stable source of high-quality water that continues to serve the County’s needs today.

The 40-million-gallon-per-day Lanier Filter Plant and the Lanier Raw Water Intake satisfied Gwinnett’s water needs for decades and set the stage for Gwinnett to emerge from a rural county to one of the Southeast’s leaders in economic development. Mason also was instrumental in the installation of a countywide loop of large water mains for reliable water supply and fire protection.

As a private citizen, Mason has been a great supporter of Georgia Gwinnett College, the first four-year college founded in Georgia in more than 100 years, and he developed subdivisions, country clubs, and shopping centers. He helped found and lead many business and community organizations, and provided facilities for youth sports and churches.

Because of Mason’s extensive contributions to Gwinnett as an individual and as a public servant, he was named a Gwinnett Trailblazer during the closing ceremony of Gwinnett County’s Bicentennial celebration in December 2018.

Since the actual water supply intake is located underwater, the County erected a monument at the Shoal Creek Filter Plant to commemorate Mason’s contributions. The monument represents the water production process of drawing water from Lake Lanier, cleaning and treating the water, and then distributing it to nearly one million residents and the many businesses in the County. The monument provides an additional educational component to the plant’s public tours.

Gwinnett’s Breweries Continued from page 13 allows for social distancing and socializing.

In a year of isolation, local businesses have been challenged to devise ways to safely continue offering service and products in compliance with suggested CDC guidelines. Creating spaces that cater to supporting the idea of neighborhood, community, and socialization has pushed many businesses to change operations. For Gwinnett’s breweries, the idea of staying connected fit right in with the trend of providing family-friendly destinations with a variety of craft beer and sodas in an atmosphere that often includes music and socially distant games.

With many Gwinnett County breweries offering warehouse-type spaces featuring open beer gardens and other welcoming outdoor options, 2021 is looking up on the socially distanced front.

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