JAN 2014: Our Town Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Magazine

The Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Community and Family Magazine

Our Town January 2014

Grayson  Lawrenceville  Snellville  Lilburn  Stone Mountain  Tucker

Meet the SarahCare team, see story on page 5.

13 16 19 20

Getting Schooled: Grayson Tech’s Digital Media Program Community Member Spotlight: Meet Charles Swain Dotmatrix: The Story of a Talented Lilburn Artist Q & A with Olde Town Grayson

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

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Read This Cancer Survivor’s Story!

I am Karen, a 44 year old Cancer survivor who suffers from multiple long term side effects of aggressive chemotherapy. I suffer from Interstitial Cystitis, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Insomnia, chemotherapy induced Menopause, and muscle wasting. One day, I was home from work sick. I was sitting on my couch in a pair of shorts and a tank top, sweating from head to toe from hot flashes, feeling an overall sense of malaise and defeat. I had been to numerous specialists who ordered painful testing and prescribed medications with long lists of harmful side effects. I had lost my trust in Traditional Medicine and decided it was time to take a leap of faith and try something new- Functional Medicine. When I first visited Dr. Gravante, she placed me on a 28 day cleanse. This was the beginning of my healing. It removed the inflammation in my body and reduced the swelling in my abdomen caused by my IBS. My entire body began to show change. Since my body was no longer in distress and swollen, I looked like I had lost about 10 pounds by my follow up visit. My follow up visit results showed I lost 6% body fat and a total of four pounds. This was evidence to me that I was converting my body fat to muscle. The 28 day cleanse was responsible for that, as I was too sick to exercise during the cleanse. I am now sleeping better and have a lot more energy. My hot flashes have subsided, and I forget I am even going through Menopause.

Since the cleanse was so effective, I decided to take my healing another step further and added chiropractic care to my regimen. Interstitial Cystitis is a condition whereby there is pressure on the bladder, which causes one to urinate frequently, and feel a sense of urgency even when the bladder is empty. It also affects the pelvic area, tailbone and sciatic nerve, making it hard to sit for long periods or travel for work. It was keeping me awake all night and causing me to miss multiple days of work. When I would awake in the morning, I would feel pain and soreness in my pelvic area. I was almost at my breaking point, ready to file for disability.

Dr. Gravante designed a care plan for me that would stimulate my parasympathetic nervous system since stress is a trigger for IC flare-ups. I have completed 3 weeks of treatment and have improved greatly, only waking once through the night to urinate, compared to about 6-7 times prior to treatment. I am not bothered during the day with pressure to urinate multiple times. I have not had to be absent from work since I began treatment with Dr. Gravante. I feel truly blessed to have been referred to her. She takes the time to understand your needs and tailor a treatment plan specifically for you.

Lorraine Gravante, D.C.

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The Center for Natural Healing NUTRITIONAL WORKSHOPS Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by Monday, June 15. and Weight Loss at Dr. Gravante’s 2176 Oak Road SuiteWe’re D looking forward to meeting you at our Summer Evening Open House!office Snellville, GA 30078 6:00 PM www.drgravante.com

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These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by Dr. Gravante is not PAGE 2 For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org Our Town intended as a primary therapy for any disease. Prior to starting any diet, nutrition or exercise program, you should consult with your medical physician.

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For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

Our Town

On the Cover: SarahCare of Snellville

By Stacye Carroll A gray-haired woman wearing a navy-blue pantsuit rides a lift that will deposit her wheelchair into a waiting van.

She smiles while exchanging pleasantries with the driver who gives her fastened seatbelt a pat before jumping back to the pavement. Even before the van pulls away, revealing the red and white SarahCare sign, her smile tells me I am in the right place.

Once inside, it doesn’t take long to figure out that smiles are a big part of the SarahCare experience as I am warmly greeted by Aysha Cooper, Owner and Executive Director of SarahCare of Snellville. It’s important, she says, “that everyone feel the love pouring out of this place when you walk in.” Aysha was introduced to the concept of adult day care after her grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

She earned a degree in public health at Indiana University, and is currently in pursuit of her MBA at the University of Georgia.

We start our tour in the clinical area. The nursing department is supervised by Susan Munroe, a registered nurse with over twenty years of experience in geriatrics, who ensures the center’s Medicaid compliance. The nursing staff attends monthly in-services, covering topics such as diabetic care, Alzheimer’s, and stroke. SarahCare of Snellville is contracted with the Veterans Affairs and currently provides care to several veterans. Aysha assists families in investigating funding options, and social worker Patti Fehlig leads a caregiver support group on the fourth

Our Town

Wednesday of every month.

Next we visit the common room.

Aysha explains that this is the room in which assistant director Bonnie Penneman directs daily activities like exercise and music, in addition to special events such as Hat Shows and even a Dance-Off! A quick look at the calendar on the SarahCare of Snellville website reminds participants of events taking place in the center, like weekly devotions and bingo, as well as outside events such as lunch at a local restaurant or a movie matinee. Students from area high schools and local scout troops help to ensure that, outside of a one-hour lunch break, participants at SarahCare of Snellville stay active from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday.

Just off the common room, Aysha shows me the beauty salon where participants are offered superior service at a discounted price. Across the hall, participants can shower with assistance when necessary. These and other services are offered in answer to the question Aysha and her staff ask the SarahCare participants, “What do you need to feel spoiled today?”

The lunch menu is written on a chalkboard just inside the entrance to an attractively furnished dining room: chicken and dumplings, broccoli, fruit cocktail, dinner roll, milk, and dessert. Consultants help ensure that

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

menus meet the dietary needs of all participants. Kitchen Coordinator and former New York restaurateur, Derrick Smith, makes everything delicious. Being able to cook meals in-house allows for increased flexibility and is just one more way SarahCare of Snellville goes “above and beyond every time.”

From the craft room, where specialized sensory stimulation is provided, to the patio featuring a wheelchairaccessible raised garden, special care is taken to ensure that no one is left out.

SarahCare of Snellville is a demonstration of Aysha Cooper’s belief that, “Life in the senior years should be enjoyed, not endured.”

For more information or to schedule a free four-hour trial visit, go to sarahcare.com/snellville.

PAGE 5

Hurt Less, Heal Quicker, Have a Better Quality of Life

Our Town THE GWINNETT/NE DEKALB MONTHLY COMMUNITY AND FAMILY M AGAZINE

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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 2014 by Our Town.

Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Our Town Gwinnett 1227 Rockbridge Road Suite 208-171 Stone Mountain, GA 30087 678-825-2049 info@endresultz.com

IN THIS ISSUE

5 7 9 10 10 11 12 12 13 13 14 15 15 16 17 18 18 19 19 20 20

On the Cover: SarahCare of Snellville From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion January Calendar of Events Why Can’t I Lose Weight?

January Sudoku Puzzle Necessary Endings Q&A: Fountain Square Business Center A Senior Moment: Protect your Privacy in the New Year Getting Schooled: Kat Marcotte of Grayson Tech’s Digital Media Program The Special Study Requirements for Mathematics Guidelines and Benefits to Hiring a Personal Trainer Quality of Life – The Subtle Success Stories Photo Contest Winner Community Member Spotlight: Charles Swain Protect Ceramic Pots from Winter Freezes New Year Resolutions for You and Your Pet Philadelphia: Fun with a Past Recipe: Spiced Cocktail Nuts Andy is dotmatrix Q&A: Olde Town Grayson Chaplain’s Corner: Times of Transition

Stay Connected! ourtownmag.org Read Online: ourtownmagonline.com ourtowngwinnett

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

@ourtowngwinnett

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Our Town

By Ryan T. Sauers

@ryansauers

Welcome 2014! A new year signals a new start for everyone.

Personal resolutions are written, new changes are revealed and it is a chance to turn a new page. Here at Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb, we invite you to turn our new all-gloss pages as we have unveiled our new look. You may notice the size is new and unique too. We want you to feel like you can easily flip through our magazine while having your morning coffee.

While we are all resolving to make ourselves better people, we invite you to read the story of SarahCare, where the staff is committed. The adult daycare center is always keeping their community engaged with activities. As you focus on your goals, check out our new column by life coach Jane Bishop, as she will give monthly tips on how to live life to the fullest. Also, check out our Community Member spotlight. This month we meet Charles Swain.

If you haven’t found us on Facebook (Our Town Gwinnett Magazine page) or Twitter (@ourtowngwinnett), be sure to connect! We gave away 4 tickets to Gwinnett Ballet’s Nutcracker to our photo contest winner Rebecca. She shared her photo of her snowy farm in Grayson. We encourage interactions and we share the inside scoop with some of the buzz that is going on in the community.

Our updated website is another great resource for our community and we’ve recently started a weekly blog. Beyond the stories featured in our magazine, you’ll get a chance to see other photos from our cover shoot, recipes, projects and community stories. Our goal is to interact with you in print, online and social mediums. All are ways of building this community and integrating communication channels.

We are excited to continue to grow in 2014, and we always are looking forward to new things in the Gwinnett/NE DeKalb community. Please stay connected and share information with us. And until next time: this is my town, the town, your town, Our Town!

Happy New Year!

Keeping Your Best Interest at Heart!

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Our Town

January Calendar of Events Graft Wine Tasting January 7, 6:30 pm Graft Restaurant 516 Grayson Parkway, Grayson www.graftrestaurant.com AARP Driver Safety Courses January 8: Garden Plaza 230 Collins Industrial Way, Lawrenceville January 16: Lawrenceville Catholic Church, 319 Grayson Highway, Lawrenceville Cost is $15.00 for AARP members and $20.00 for non-AARP members.

To register for either class call 678-488-7652. www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/ Body of Health Open House January 13, 11am-3pm Body of Health 1780 Oak Road, Suite A2, Snellville www.bodyofhealthandlife.com/ upcoming-events/

Build Your Dream Home

Free Thermography Lecture January 14, 7 pm AC Spine & Wellness 217 Scenic Highway, Lawrenceville www.acchiropractic.com/ monthly-specials.html Niko’s Corner Wine Tastings Every Thursday, 6-7:30 pm 2050 Scenic Highway, Snellville www.nikoswinecorner.com/ wine_tasting EXPECT! Worship, Healing and Deliverance Meeting January 25, 5:00 pm Regeneration Apostolic Ministries 3220 Industrial Way, Ste B, Snellville 770-736-7575

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(770) 545-8590 Dr. Rebecca Paden B.C.N.D and Staff

It’s What You Don’t See That Matters Most What is Medical Thermal Imaging?

Thermography is a non-invasive, non-contact tool that uses the heat from your body to aid in making diagnosis of a host of health care conditions. Thermography is completely safe, FDA approved and uses no radiation.

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Why Can’t I Lose Weight?

By Dr. Jeanette Altieri

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PAGE 10

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JANUARY SUDOKU PUZZLE

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Many people have come to us with the question, “Why can’t I lose weight?” Some people have really made efforts to work off those pounds with no results, while others have not done enough to get the results they desire. So how do you know if you are truly missing something or if you are just not doing what it takes?

One reason why people have a hard time losing the excess weight is because they eat the “wrong” foods and don’t know it. Testing to see which foods you are sensitive to, and eliminating them for three to six months, will decrease inflammation in your body that can lead not only to weight loss, but to the reduction of many health problems. Are you toxic? Toxins build up in the cells. Heavy metals and yeast cause the body to retain water and fat in order to protect itself from the toxins. By removing the toxins, you remove the extra weight.

Is your adiponectin-leptin ratio normal? These are hormones that regulate your insulin, metabolism, and food intake, which contribute to obesity.

Some people don’t have the energy to exercise and prepare good food to help them lose weight. This could be related to the health of your adrenal glands, hormones, and gut. All of this contributes to weight loss or gain. By looking inside your cells, we get a “big picture” of what your body needs to achieve the goal of weight loss and health. Setting up a program that is specifically designed for you can help you achieve the healthier life that comes with normal weight. 2014 is the year to reach that goal!

Dr. Altieri is co-owner of AC Spine & Wellness Center. For more information visit: acspineandwellness.com.

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

Our Town

Necessary Endings

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By Jane Bishop

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The beginning of a new year is time for a fresh start with new opportunities and a new focus. One common approach to capitalize on a new year is to simply design what to begin or restart. Little thought, however, is given to what must be ended. “Great is the art of the beginning, but greater is the art of ending.” --Henry Wadsworth Longfellow Endings are a natural part of professional and personal life. As an Army dependent, I grew up with endings as part of my family’s lifestyle. We would begin life in one physical location, and then end what we knew to relocate and begin and move toward another ending. The longest we lived in one place was 35 months.

Someone said that life is lived in chapters. Lessons I learned in those “growing up chapters” have often served as a reference for my personal and professional growth. One of those lessons was the advantage of endings. Had we stayed in one location, the adventure of many different experiences would have been missed. Although so many endings were not my choice, they proved to be enriching.

Endings may not be easy, but they are critical for growth. My early life experiences helped shape my perspective on the necessity of endings for living4ward. Dr. Henry Cloud writes, “Good cannot begin until bad ends. Without the ability to do endings well, we flounder, stay stuck, and fail to reach our goals and dreams.” As the new year begins, consider answering these questions as one approach to a fresh start: • Why do you avoid endings?

• What must be ended to move forward this year?

• What incredible result(s) are you missing by not implementing an ending?

Experience the good when you act on your answers!

Jane Bishop is a life coach and Owner/CEO of Take the Next Step. For more information, visit takethenextstepcct.com.

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PAGE 11

Q&A: Fountain Square Business Center

By Alexa Lampasona, with Buddy Scott What started as an abandoned Target in a shopping center on McGee Road, Fountain Square Business Center is now the hub for a variety of businesses, ranging from small start-ups to national companies like the content marketers for the Chick-Fil-A Bowl.

What are three types of businesses you have seen at Fountain Square?

Buddy Scott: The home business that wants to expand beyond the garage.

The satellite office for a corporation.

Conventional businesses looking to downsize and save costs on office space.

The main reason Fountain Square appeals to people seems to be the flexible leasing where tenants are able to get out of a lease in 90 days. What other major benefit do the tenants receive?

BS: The internet infrastructure is uncommon because every suite has its own virtual private secure network. That means no one can ever get into another tenant’s network.

You mentioned that Highway 78 is one of the few places in Atlanta that has fiber.

Explain how Fountain Square is utilizing that.

BS: Fiber is the amount of data usage your internet uses and how fast you stream. The tenants have access to the biggest internet “pipe,” essentially a fast internet. It has been great for my online web developing company.

How has the business center developed over the years?

BS: I have been here since 2004. As one of the oldest office tenants, I have seen hundreds come and go. The key to success in this industry is to focus on a variety of businesses, and that’s where Fountain Square is headed. Now the office center is 75% full with 74 tenants.

Buddy Scott is tenant and owner of ebroadcasters media services, inc.

A Senior Moment: Protect your Privacy in the New Year

By Amy Hentschel Click, click, click. Many families go online to search for senior care options, and without even realizing it, they disclose personal, financial, care, and medical information to companies that share this information with dozens of third party providers. Within minutes, they are bombarded with emails and phone calls, asking them to come take a tour of a property, set up a home assessment, or even meet with a financial planner.

During a time of great stress and need, the last thing that families are worried about or understand is that their privacy is NOT being protected.

The HIPAA law, passed in 1996 by Congress and implemented in 1997, is a combination of regulations aimed at reducing waste, fraud, and abuse in the health care industry.

It also enacts strict security standards for the protection of personal health information. Unfortunately it does not apply to many private interrelated companies dealing with senior care. Some companies vaguely disclose that they share private information to third parties, but most offer no disclosure and even seek to use the information for financial gain.

We believe that these practices are wrong. Our clients share personal details about day to day care, medications, memory loss, savings, and retirement, and they disclose intimate details about their loved ones’ history and life. It is a sacred privilege to be in the position to receive this information and guide families to true solutions. We have been committed to protect the rights and privacy of our clients and to follow many of the HIPAA guidelines voluntarily.

Families need guidance and TRUE advocacy. Although there are many genuine kindhearted advisors working in this field, we must hold companies accountable and encourage them to improve their practices.

Amy Hentschel is a senior care consultant and owner of Senior Provisions, LLC. For more information visit MySeniorProvisions.com

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For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

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Our Town

Getting Schooled: Kat Marcotte of Grayson Tech’s Digital Media & Design Program

By Alexa Lampasona You might not realize that there is a group of high school students who could design your website or create a logo for your business. Kat Marcotte teaches “Digital Media and Design” through the Grayson Technical Education Program, and she boasts that these high school students are Gwinnett County’s best kept secret.

“I have a lot of kids who come in with an artistic eye, which can’t be taught,” Marcotte says. “Digital media makes anyone who knows the software look good, but my students grabbed the psychology of layout and typography very quickly. They understand the theory behind it and can reproduce it in their own way.”

The program was implemented ten years ago, and though much of the technological landscape has changed, this program transitioned from a graphics class to its current foundation in interactive media production.

The students, juniors, and seniors from surrounding Gwinnett County schools apply to the program, and once accepted, they attend regular courses at their home school in the morning, followed by a three-hour afternoon class at Grayson Tech. At the end of the one-year program, they are positioned to become an Adobe Certified Associate. Last year Marcotte had six students who were either employed or involved in internships that would transition to full time employment.

“Here we focus on what would be most beneficial to local businesses,” Marcotte says.

“Digital media is in every business, so they can take these skills into any industry.”

The “design for hire” projects help build the students’ portfolios as they produce promotional products and websites for “real world” clients. The hardest challenge for the students is letting go of their art. Marcotte has taught them media literacy, so they learn the difference between what they think looks good and what is appropriate for their clients.

“What we put into a piece means nothing, but what the client gets out of it is what is most important,” Marcotte says. “I have an incredibly gifted group of students who have come in with a passion for digital media.”

The Digital Media & Design students have a website of their work at cafepress.com/dmaddesigns.

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By Carol C. Wood Math must be studied differently from other subjects in school. It is sequentially learned, and it is a skill subject. In order for a student to have a more successful school year in math, he/she must first understand these two differences, and then be willing to correct any study deficiencies.

When math is sequentially learned, each math topic is built upon the previous topics.

To perform math correctly, all prior topics must be mastered. Any topic not mastered must first be identified, and then the student must re-learn the missing concepts, practicing problems until mastered so the foundation is solidified. A student can then better handle the current math being taught in school.

When math is a skill subject, it must be practiced and drilled daily for mastery. Similar to playing a sport or a musical instrument, students must listen and heed their teachers/ coach’s instruction, attempt the skill, be on the lookout for any inaccurate techniques, correct those inaccuracies, try again, and then practice for precision. For the greatest math success, students are to practice the math concepts daily based on what was presented in class on that day. Even if a teacher does not assign math homework on a given day, the student should look at his/her class notes and re-work the problems given as examples until all can be solved correctly without looking at the notes.

By acknowledging these two different study characteristics for math and then acting upon them, students can resolve their difficulties, become more successful in their coursework, reduce stress, and perhaps even find themselves enjoying math!

Carol Wood is founder and owner of Total Learning Concepts.

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PAGE 13

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A personal trainer is someone looking out for your best interests, and they require your accountability, unlike the infomercials of today. They tailor a fitness prescription for you to help meet your goals safely and correctly.

A good personal trainer can provide you with a skill set that can carry you throughout your life. Here are a few suggestions to guide you in your trainer search.

• Beware of the trainer who purchased an online certification for $29.99. Qualified trainers have put in the effort to be certified by accredited agencies. Nationally accredited certifications can be checked and verified online or by calling the certification organization.

• Beware of the trainer selling supplements and weight loss products. We are trainers, not physicians or nutritionists.

• In training inquiries I have been asked such questions as: Are you going to yell and scream at me? Are you going to make me do ridiculous things that I cannot do? I believe these ideas stem from TV fitness “reality” shows because the show’s producers feel it makes for good television.

In real-life personal training we encourage you, and there are progressions in your program. Your trainer will take you from point A to point B and onward, not slam you into point Z. Reflect now on your level of commitment and decide if you are ready to get a personal trainer. If YOU aren’t ready, you will waste your time (and money) and the trainer’s time.

Be honest and keep the lines of communication open. Trainers want you to succeed.

Nothing is more exciting to me than seeing my clients knock the ball out of the park!

Kelly Farris is the owner of Ladies Workout Snellville and Time4 Results Personal Training, and is the president of KLF Fitness. Find more info at ladiesworkoutsnellville.com

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PAGE 14

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Quality of Life – The Subtle Success Stories

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In my September article on quality of life, I shared some of our clients’ successes in facing profound challenges and their inspiring improvements. Many who come through our door look perfectly healthy to those who don’t know them. These are the walking wounded—those who deal with chronic pain issues such as fibromyalgia, a locked shoulder, limited range of motion, etc. Despite their persistent pain, they are told there is nothing wrong, or are prescribed medications that make them feel horrible. This is no way to live life, and this is by no means any real “quality of life.”

In this month’s article, I would like to highlight the understated success stories of some of my chronic pain heroes: One client had two neck fusion surgeries. The doctors released her, and the scans showed that she healed well. So why is she still in pain? Why can’t she look down for any length of time to read a book? Why can’t she vacuum the house or ride in a car for extended periods of time? Why does she have headaches every day? She would love to have one pain-free day. This client did daily exercise and stretches. She repositioned her computer to reduce the strain on her neck, incorporated acupuncture, saw a chiropractor and physical therapist, and was treated by a team of doctors. She finally found us at Body of Health and is now on a bi-weekly maintenance plan. By getting regular massage and body work, she has been able to tackle everyday tasks with less pain.

Another person had fibromyalgia. She is a school teacher and had to miss days of work because she could not function with the pain and fatigue. Her muscles turn into knots, her body locked down, and she was overcome with fatigue and exhaustion. Her doctors prescribed medications that made her feel foggy and lethargic. We were able to address her immune function with lymph therapy, and she has found relief. We massage her entire body with neuromuscular and myofascial therapies. These techniques have reduced her fatigue and chronic pain, and she is now able to work full days with little interference from her condition.

Lastly, I would like to talk about a client who was at her wit’s end. She had been to multiple doctors for multiple issues over many years. She was being treated for different symptoms, but never the whole body. She was taking more than ten different medications, and she experienced more days feeling bad than good. This was more than a “flare-up.” She came to Body of Health, and after assessing her from a whole body perspective, we were able to determine that we should check her lymphatic system, which is the body’s immune function. After integrating therapies, this client showed a remarkable improvement. The chronic pain reduced, the bloated feeling went away, and the ongoing headaches disappeared. She is now looking at her lifestyle and making nutritional changes as well as incorporating good home care. Empowered with knowledge about her body, she has made a complete turnaround and is on the road to good health and a wonderful quality of life.

Do these examples ring a bell? If you are suffering, know that there is help. You just need to take the first step and be proactive.

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PAGE 15

Refresh for the New Year with Color! Community Member Spotlight: Charles Swain

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Sullivan’s Island in the Charleston harbor of South Carolina is the perfect setting for a romance novel. For Charles Swain it is the place where, as a young boy, he built forts and rode bicycles while visiting his grandparents. He credits time on the island and his childhood spent in Charleston, South Carolina for his belief in the importance of community. For the last fifteen years, Charles, his wife Becki, and their two children have called Lilburn home. According to Charles, “a strong sense of community” is his favorite thing about living here, but he also enjoys the Gwinnett Braves, the Lilburn Greenway Trail, and Music on Main on a Saturday night.

Serving as President of the Real Estate Management Division for Colliers International feeds Charles’ love of solving problems and facing challenges. When asked what motivates him, Charles comes back to friends and fellowship. He believes getting to know people is one of the best ways to solve problems.

Understanding how things—like local government—work is important, too. This belief inspired Charles to become involved in Leadership Gwinnett, whose mission is “to educate, equip, and engage leaders to serve and strengthen Gwinnett County and the Region.” His participation has helped him understand how communities function, how government tax dollars can’t do it all, and how people—not just those elected, but those who live in the community—make government work.

He also learned the importance of giving back. As a Collier’s employee, Charles has volunteered at the Center for the Visually Impaired. He and his wife are involved with CURE Childhood Cancer, and he and his son serve breakfast to as many as 300 people on Saturday mornings on the streets of downtown Atlanta.

In his spare time, Charles enjoys playing guitar with his band and doubles tennis with his wife. His favorite hobby, though, is spending time with his friends and family.

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PAGE 16

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

Our Town

Protect Ceramic Pots from Winter Freezes

By Kate Pittman Ceramic pots left out in winter weather are frequently damaged due to a principle geological force: water expands when it freezes at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Water can be found in the damp soil left inside of the pot, or moisture can soak into the ceramic itself. It is important to protect your ceramic pots.

Even though winters in the South are not considered severe, data taken over the past 45 years by the Southeast Regional Climate Center shows that Atlanta averaged 48 days of freezing temperatures. These freezing spells generally occur from December through March and last only a few hours before daytime temperatures warm up.

However, if temperatures remain at or below freezing for a significant length of time, we may wake to find our favorite patio pots cracked or broken.

Since many of our outdoor potted plants have begun to die by winter, most of us have given up on watering them, but the pots themselves still need to be protected.

Low temperatures mean minimal evaporation, so the soil might still be damp from the last watering or from wet weather.

Damp soil will expand when it freezes. Pots broken by this freezing soil are identified by hairline cracks that start at the rim and cut vertically through the pot, sometimes deep enough to split the pot in half. This kind of damage can happen in any rigid container, but glass and ceramic (glazed or unglazed) are the most susceptible.

Unglazed terracotta pots can suffer an additional type of frost damage because they absorb water. Water seeps

into the microscopic pores and evaporates over time.

However, when the water in those pores freezes, slabs of pottery flake away from the outer sides of the pot. This phenomenon is called spalling.

Try some of these tips to protect your ceramic pots for years to come.

• Remove soil from the pots before storage. The used potting mix can be added to your compost pile, which can augment your new potting soil when you plant in the spring.

• Store pots in the garage or under any covered shelter, including the eves of your house, to protect them from the weather.

• Turn outdoor pots upside down so rain doesn’t collect in them. If the ground or concrete where you will store them gets wet from downspouts or rain, stack your pots upside down on bricks, rocks, or pieces of lumber. This will keep the rims from absorbing water.

With little effort, your clay pots will be waiting for you in the spring, ready to get down to the business of containing flowers all summer long.

Damp soil frozen inside of this ceramic pot split the pot in half. Also, the freezing of water absorbed into the ceramic itself caused small slabs to flake off of the side.

Volunteers in the Gwinnett Master Gardener program help the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension provide home gardeners with research-based information and assistance. More information at http://www.gwinnettmastergardeners.com/.

Slabs of pottery flake off the outside of this pot (spalling). This was caused by repeated freezing and expanding of water absorbed into the porous ceramic.

Damp soil frozen inside of this ceramic pot split the pot in half. Also, the freezing of water absorbed into the ceramic itself caused small slabs to flake off of the side.

Stacking empty ceramic pots under an eve and off of the ground keeps them relatively dry and protected.

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PAGE 17

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New Year Resolutions for You and Your Pet

By Terie Hansen Over 50% of pets in the United States are overweight. This excess weight can lead to a shorter lifespan, health problems as your pet ages, and difficult walking as those extra pounds add pressure to joints. Here are some simple ways to help your pet to lose weight or keep their weight in check.

Measure your pet’s food at every meal. Check the feeding guidelines found on the food’s packaging. Measurement is often determined by age and weight. This is a starting point only. Depending on how much daily activity your pet gets, you may need to add or subtract a little.

Feeding routines are important. Most cats and dogs will benefit by a twice-a-day feeding routine. Even cats can learn to eat when the food is placed down. Leave the food for 15 minutes only. Then, if your pet is not actively eating after that time, remove the food and don’t put it down again until the next mealtime. At each meal, feed your pet half of his daily requirement. If they don’t eat it all, just add to it at the next feeding time to make a serving. Do not be alarmed if your pet skips a few meals to start. When pets get hungry enough, they will eat. During the initial transition it is best to stay away from treats in between meals since they just add empty calories to your pet’s diet and keep him from being hungry enough to eat the food that carries important nutrients.

Add activities to your pet’s daily routine. A nice daily walk around the block with your dog, or a 15 minute play session with your cat chasing a teaser, will burn calories that will add up over a year’s time.

Make this New Year the healthiest yet for you and your pet, and you’ll enjoy many happy years together.

Terie Hansen is a Professional Dog Trainer, Pet Sitter & Owner at Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More info at gooddogcoaching.com.

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When I attended a meeting in the Northeast, I didn’t realize that I would be visiting Philadelphia, too. The meeting was hosted by the Ritz-Carlton, Philadelphia, so I was in the center of everything.

Philadelphia is more than the rundown town and art museum by the river that can be seen in the old “Rocky” movie. It is a beautiful city with tons of Colonial sites that ring with the history of our country. You can visit the Betsy Ross House, a museum dedicated to Benjamin Franklin, and the Liberty Bell Center where you can see the 2,800 pound bell with its famous crack. The bell rang on July 8, 1776 to announce the first reading of the Declaration of Independence. Not to be missed is Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was adopted and the US Constitution drafted.

There are many other things to do and see in Philadelphia. The famed Reading Terminal Market is a must see. You can sample wonderful hot apple dumplings and other Amish treats, as well as Philly steak and cheese steak sandwiches. You may want to try Penn’s Landing along the Delaware River for great seafood, or visit Rittenhouse Square to shop at designer and boutique shops.

You will also find a variety of tours in Philadelphia: art, sculling, bike, trolley, mural arts, food, and even Segway tours, if you are so inclined.

Restaurants run the gamut from American to over-the-top eclectic with cuisines from around the world.

Philadelphia is known as “the birthplace of the United States,” but it has definitely become a “World City.” It is a great place to learn and discover at the same time.

Pam walker is a Virtuoso Travel Consultant and can be reached at pliwalker@earthlink.net.

1567 Janmar Rd. Suite 200 | Snellville, GA 30078 more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org Call or visit us today. For770.685.6971 www.sarahcare.com/snellville | Open Mon-Fri 7am-6pm

PAGE 18

Our Town

Recipe: Spiced Cocktail Nuts

By Ashley Clemence Vegetable cooking spray 2 egg whites 2 cups roasted and salted almonds 2 cups roasted and salted cashew nuts 2 cups walnut halves 3/4 cup sugar

2 tablespoons Madras curry powder 1 tablespoon ground cumin 2 1/2 teaspoons garlic salt 1 1/4 teaspoons cayenne pepper 1 teaspoon ground cardamom 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Place an oven rack in the center of the oven. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Spray a baking sheet, liberally, with vegetable cooking spray.

Set aside.

In a large bowl, whisk the egg whites until frothy. Add the nuts and stir until coated. In a small bowl, combine the sugar, curry powder, cumin, garlic salt, cayenne pepper, cardamom, and cinnamon. Sprinkle the sugar mixture over the nuts and toss until coated. Arrange the nuts in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Bake for 45 minutes until golden and fragrant. Cool for 1 hour.

Using a metal spatula, remove the nuts from the baking sheet. Break the nuts into bite- sized pieces and place in serving bowls.

This recipe is courtesy of Ashley Clemence, owner and chef at Graft Restaurant in Grayson.

Andy is dotmatrix

By Alexa Lampasona Dip. Apply. Dip. He dots paint on large wood panels.

Mandalas. Patterns. Patchwork. Contrasting colors. He even dreams in dots. It began in 1998. Painting the dots was calming. He is Andy, a.k.a. “ dotmatrix.”

She grew up in Virginia. In her very same neighborhood, he spent his boyhood summers. The two may have crossed paths without being aware of each other. They both unknowingly ended up in Atlanta. Until she saw his sculpture.

The sculpture was painted in dots. She believed he could go places with his art. She sold his first piece in her gallery.

She inspires him. She is Angela.

They were best friends for 15 years. Both explored the arts: she with photography; he with painting. Now they are married.

“Angela completes my life and inspires me,” Andy says. “She’s so good for my creativity.

Now I feel more excited about getting out there and trying things.”

“He sees a different kind of world than I do,” Angela says. “That’s what I love about him.

He sees the goodness in everything, and we balance each other out.”

He enjoys seeing how his paintings affect people. At his shows, people stare at his work.

His art pulses their interests. It is hypnotizing and energetic.

“I have a theory that every art should be dynamic,” he says. “You can sense movement in my paintings.”

“That must take a lot of time,” people say. He works two to three weeks on a three square-foot piece. His art is pure improvisation. He doesn’t start with an idea. He just reaches for the colors, and makes the dots.

“It’s just a sense of this is right,” he says. “I bypass the inner critic that tells me to stay within the lines.”

She never tells him what to do or how to do it. She just tells him to go with it.

Andy Blanchard is the artist,“dotmatrix.” You can view his artistic work at amdotmatrix.com.

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PAGE 19

Q&A: Olde Town Grayson TM

Helping Families Find True Solutions

By Stacye Carroll On their website, Olde Town Grayson is described as “Gated, active adult living that’s equal parts fun and convenience.” Meg Thompson, who handles sales and marketing for the community, took the time to give us a little more information.

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SC: What motivates people to move to an active adult community like Olde Town Grayson?

MT: It is usually a two year decision that stems from a buyer’s desire to live close to family. Half of our buyers come from all over the U.S., while half are local moves. The warm climate, Grayson’s small town atmosphere, and the proximity to world class health care makes Olde Town Grayson the place to be.

SC: What should people consider when searching for an active adult community?

MT: Proximity to daily conveniences such as grocery stores, churches, medical facilities, and family is important. Exterior maintenance obligations should be considered as they can be overwhelming for single buyers, and energy efficient features minimize long-term operating costs. Buyers should also look for open floor plans with no hindrances to mobility.

SC: What is the application process and age requirements?

MT: No application is required unless the buyer is applying for a new loan. Then they go through full mortgage qualification. One person in the household must be at least 55 years old, and no one 21 or younger is allowed to live in the neighborhood full time.

SC: What sets Olde Town Grayson apart from other active adult communities?

MT: Compared to other “mega” active adult communities with hundreds of homes, Olde Town Grayson is an intimate gated community with a total of 111 total homes planned. It is the only “new construction active adult community” east of I-85 in Gwinnett County.

More information on Olde Town Grayson is available at www.oldetowngrayson.com/.

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We live in a time of constant transition. Whether we want it or not, transitions affects all of us. How we handle life’s transitions will determine our life’s direction and destiny.

I want to share three critical truths that can help us make successful transitions in life.

Firstly, transition denotes change. Changes are inevitable. We are challenged with bodily health, environmental, financial, social, and political changes. Changes place us in an uncomfortable position. Face it; we must learn to deal with changes. We must anticipate and prepare for transition.

Secondly, transition demands preparation. Preparation for transition requires an investment of time, energy, and resources. Think about what it takes for a high school student’s transition to be a successful college student, or being married with no children transitioning to being married with a child or children, or an employee’s transition to retirement.

Proper preparation is critical for a successful transition.

Lastly, transition defines the future. What we realize in our future will be determined by the success or failure in managing our transitions. The greatest resources in preparing for transitions are those that have gone before us. The lessons and insights of their successes and failures are invaluable in preparing for our transitions. Methods and means change over time, but principles and guidelines are timeless.

Although we live a life in a world, that is constantly changing, I have found one Person that brings me stability in the midst of all the transitions and seasons of life. This Person is a stable and unchanging anchor in my life. His name is Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God. In the New Living Translation bible, the Apostle Paul states in Hebrews 13:8 that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.”

Carson Skinner is Senior Pastor of Regeneration World Church. More information is available at regenwc.org/.

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

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345 Buford Drive • Lawrenceville, GA 30046 Monday – Friday: 8:30 am – 6:00 pm • Saturday 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

30000 OFF

$

*With approved credit.

Lavista Dentistry

May not be combined with any other coupon. * Any invoice $100.00 or more.

Comprehensive Family Care u State-of-the-art equipment u Digital X-rays / reduced radiation u Nitrous Oxide (laughing gas) u Care for patients of ALL ages

Cosmetic and Restorative Care u Dental Implants u Tooth colored restorations u Invisalign u Teeth Whitening

Dr. James A. Granade Jr., Dr. James A. Granade III, Dr. Garrett N. Sanders

770-491-3888

We pride ourselves in thorough patient education, gentle treatment methods, well-trained, loyal staff and quality patient service.

Serving all of Tucker, Lilburn and Stone Mountain for 45 years.

4879 Lavista Road Suite 100, Tucker, GA 30084 • www.lavistadentistry.com Our Town

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

PAGE 21

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For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

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