JULY 2018: Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Magazine

JULY 2018 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

Meet the team at Wages & Sons, see story on page 5

8 11 13 19

Brookwood High’s Ruby Lee: Presidential Scholar Semi-Finalist Lilburn Elementary School: The Legomatics Team Community Member Spotlight: Meet Annaliese Mayo Movie Review: The Incredibles 2 is Great Family Fun

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

PAID

PRSRT PAID U.S. POSTAGE

Top-Tier Academics in a Christ-Centered Environment Providence offers top-tier academics, competitive sports, and a wide range of fine arts offerings to K-12th grade students.

Most important, Providence is a school centered around the person of Jesus Christ.

Whether it’s in the classroom, on the stage, or on the ballfield, spiritual is anoffer “Dr. Simmons isformation proud to everyday part of school life.

Botox and Dermal Fillers. Call the office to schedule your consulta

To find out more, visit:

providencechristianacademy.org

isJohn honored to beIV, we are committed to providing you with the high AtDr. the Simmons dental office of W. Simmons, comprehensive dental care, focused on both the function and beauty of your smile. A one of only nine dentists improving in patient care and comfort are our primary concerns. We are proud to run a practice that treats ea Georgia to have passed the kind, gentle, and caring manner, just like family. We offer a full range of the latest cosmetic a rigorous required to long-lasting, earn procedures thattesting concentrate on ensuring brilliant results you will love, and others

Cosmetic Dentistry The cosmetic procedures we offer can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. We offer a wide selection of procedures that can correct almost any dental imperfection.

• Porcelain Veneers • Teeth Whitening • Dental Bonding • Gum Recontouring • Dental Implants • All-Porcelain Crowns

BEFORE

AFTER

Compassionate Dentistry Our superior services can recapture the health, functionality, and youthful appearance of your natural smile. Our practice focuses on providing Before After long-lasting results and promoting overall dental health.

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

accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

His state-of-the-art equipment and updated technology allow him to affordably serveDENTAL CARE AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY D.M.D., P.C. • SUPERIOR his patients by providing healthy, beautiful smiles. Our experienced team provides five-star service, personalized care, and an extraordinary commitment to your health and well-being. Please join our Call for an Appointment family by scheduling a new patient exam.

J OHN W. S IMMONS,

2381-B Main Street E Snellville, Georgia 30

770-985-2437

John W. Simmons, IV, DMD, PC

2381-B Main Street East www.smilesbysimmons.co Snellville, Georgia 30078 Hours: Monday 9:00am - 7:00pm Tuesday 7:00am 770-985-2437 Office • SmilesBySimmons.com Wednesday 7:00am - 6:00pm Thursday 7:00am - 2:

Dr. John W. Simmons, IV

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Think your doctor should listen to more than just your heart?

We’re With You.

Pleasant Hill Rd

We believe in “Personal Care” at the doctor’s office.

By partnering with a network of specialists and a state-of-the-art health system, we give you the care you need and the attention you deserve.

Bur n Dickens Rd

n Bur

oad sR

s Roa d

Bea ve Rd uin rR

Berkmar High School

H eville Lawrenc

Irene Stephanopoulos, FNP-BC New Addition

wy

Le ste

d oa rR

29

Craig Heigerick, DO

Ronald Reag an Pk wy

Call us for an appointment 770.935.8616

Meet the doctors! Watch our video at www.beaverruinprimarycare.com

615 Beaver Ruin Rd. NW, Suite B , Lilburn, GA 30047 Our Town

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 3

Educational Entertainment

Learn

Touch

Cuddle

Be entertained while you learn!

Enjoy an interactive hour learning about these magnificent birds.

We now sell parrots and all parrot supplies at wholesale prices Fancy Feathers

3180 Oakcliff Industrial St. Doraville, GA 30340

Call us at 770-986-0661 10-2 Monday -Friday 10-12 Saturday

Parrot Productions Brenda Bean (770) 715-5337

Call us now to book your next party, school or retirement home entertainment.

parrotproshows.com

FANCY FEATHERS 3180 Oakcliff Industrial Street, Doraville Georgia 30340 Open 10-2 Monday through Friday and from 10-12 Saturday. Also open by appointment.

Offering all parrot/bird supplies at wholesale prices. We sell hand fed BABY PARROTS and cockatiels. Finches and parakeets offered occasionally.

Please call 770-986-0661.

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

PAGE 4

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

On the Cover: Wages and Sons: Honoring Life. No Regrets.

By Joanna Shackelford Death was never a taboo subject at the Wages family table. In fact, it was part of their everyday conversation, and it still is. Since he was thirteen years old, Jeffrey Wages worked by the side of his father, Billy K. Wages, Sr., and brother, Billy Wages Jr., at Wages and Sons Funeral Home, helping families during a critical time of need.

Jeffrey remembers as a kid going out on calls with his dad, who was Gwinnett County coroner at the time, wearing a big fireman’s hat, curious and proud. “The business of our family has been death for my whole life,” he says. “It was very normal. This is what we did.”

Now, following in the footsteps of his father as funeral director, Jeffrey and his family continue their 50-year-old tradition of creating services of remembrance with respect and kindness.

Billy Wages, Sr. opened Wages and Sons in Stone Mountain in the 1960s. “My father was a giver,” says Jeffrey. “He cared for humankind and loved his community like no one else I knew.”

He remembers his father caring for people with guidance and expertise, taking their best interest to heart.

He and his dad served together in an organization called Order of the Golden Rule, an association made up of independent funeral directors across the globe. According to Jeffrey, his father embraced the philosophy completely. “His quiet, gentle way and firmness in leading his staff made an impression on me. I’ll always remember how kind he was,” says Jeffrey. “We carry it every day, and it’s a big stick.” Billy Wages, Sr. passed away in 2004.

Today, Wages and Sons has evolved into two locations, Stone Mountain and Lawrenceville, with 20 + staff members – a far cry from the original mom-and-pop operation of two full-time

employees many years ago.

Jeffrey’s brother Billy plays a pivotal role in the family business by overseeing crematory operations for both the Gwinnett Chapel and Stone Mountain locations.

The brothers have taken their father’s legacy and continue to pay it forward in the community. They are most passionate about advocating for children in need, and they serve on multiple boards, from the Gwinnett Library Association to Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV). “There are so many areas of need, sometimes you don’t know where to start,” Jeffrey admits.

“But you’ve got to start somewhere, or you won’t make a difference.”

His greatest act of service, however, happens within his own business. Meeting a family in their darkest of days and taking them through the difficult process of preparing arrangements to properly honor a loved one’s life can weigh heavily on a person.

Jeffrey says his satisfaction for his job comes when he can see a person’s healing process begin.

He is passionate about caring for people not just during this period, but after the funeral has happened, a time when many would think a funeral director’s job is over. This is why Jeffrey began a grief counseling program, opening their doors to anyone in the community in need of healing. It has taken a long time to build – nearly 18 years – but if anyone knows about the needs of people during and after the death of a loved one, it’s Jeffrey.

“So many times people hide those feelings and need some way to release,” he says.

Their grief support program offers one-on-one counseling or group sessions for adults and children led by licensed and experienced professionals. Partnering with local churches, they host meetings in various locations in Lawrenceville and other nearby

cities.

Currently, in partnership with Gwinnett Medical, Wages and Sons is preparing for a major evening event on September 6th where bereaved families can attend a valuable seminar led by world-renowned author and grief counselor Alan Wolfelt.

“This is our way of showing people that we really do care, not only today, but the next day and the next,” says Jeffrey. “Grief counseling may be subtle, but it’s probably the most impactful.”

Today, Jeffrey sees changes in what families want in a service.

“They are wanting more of an experience, like catering and a place to have meals, and we’re changing in order to accommodate them in this way.”

They have also seen a major shift toward cremation services in recent years. Wages and Sons has adapted to these changes, not just because they have owned and operated their own cremation facilities for many years, but also because of their growing desire to take care of people and their community. “Our job is to find how we can accommodate any family. We don’t turn anyone down for race, religion, or lack of money,” says Jeffrey. Their mission, he says, is to help families find a way to honor their loved one and come away from the experience with no regrets.

The Wages and Sons family business works and lives by this simple principle, harkening back to the Golden Rule. In this way, they honor their father’s legacy.

More information at https://www.wagesandsons.com/

P LU M B ING A ND SERVICES O U R C U S T OM E RS ARE O UR

R H 4 2 RGENCY

EME RVICE SE

P R I O RI T Y !

770-860-8110

N OW H I R I N G ! • highpr ior ity p l u m b i n g. co m Our Town

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 5

Thinking about recapturing the charm of your home?

Call us today for your free estimate!

• Exterior Painting • Carpentry Repairs • Interior Painting • Gutters • Commercial Painting • Cabinet Refinishing

Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio Cover Photographer Amadorphoto Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Daidra Annis Heidi Campbell Kristen Eleveld

We are a fully insured, Grayson based company.

We Finance!

Patty Gabilondo

Kim Hill Maple Johnson Amy Ney

George Partington

J. Rice Joanna Shackelford Contributing Writers Beth Volpert-Johansen

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm EndResultZ.com

Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett /NE DeKalb area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.

Entire contents copyright 2018 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduc-tion 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@OurTownGwinnett.com

Stay Connected!

OurTownGwinnett.com

Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett

IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: Wages and Sons: Honoring Life. No Regrets.

7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

SUMMER SPECIAL!

HVAC TUNE-UP

$49

CALL US TODAY! YOUR TRUSTED METRO ATLANTA HVAC & ELECTRICAL EXPERTS SINCE 1974 WWW.KOMERY.COM

PAGE 6

8 Brookwood High’s Ruby Lee Selected as Semi-Finalist for Presidential

Scholars Program

11 Lilburn Elementary School: The Legomatics Team 12 One on One with Lilburn Farmers Market 13 Community Member Spotlight: Meet Annaliese Mayo — Beauties

Against Bullies

15 Safety First with Summer Fun in Lawrenceville 16 Up Close in Lawrenceville: Beat the Heat – Or At Least the Boredom 19 Audiences of All Ages Flock to See The Incredibles 2 21 Book Club Revival

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

American Heritage Animal Hospital

From the Publisher: @RyanSauers

By Ryan T. Sauers

I hope everyone is having a great summer. I encourage you to spend some of it with the people you enjoy the most. On a personal note, it is hard to believe how fast time is going. I will have three daughters at different schools in the fall: University level, High School, and Middle School. My kids’ elementary school days are over. Man, that went fast. So, again, enjoy the present. It is A PRESENT, and all any of us are guaranteed.

I encourage each of you to Keep Pushing Forward (KPF) no matter what you are facing in life. And, always inspire others in our community to make it the best it can be. Always find the good in people and seek to make others laugh and smile. It makes a difference. I am so very thankful for the Our Town community.

I wish you a wonderful and safe July. So while this column is concise, growth mode is coming, and I will have more for you in August. As always, thank you for continuing with us on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

Happy 4th of July Chris’

10% off

BARBER SHOP

1/2 price exam for Full Yearly Visit (includes exam, vaccines, new clients heartworm test and fecal)

Serving the Lilburn area for over 20 years!

Best Haircuts in Town!

NO APPOINTMENTS NECESSARY!

Making Lilburn Beautiful One Haircut at a Time.

Special

3Kid’sOFF Cuts

$

770-923-3216

5385 Five Forks Trickum Rd. • Suite M Stone Mountain, GA 30087

In Mountain Park Plaza between Always Fresh Restaurant and Mountain Park Fitness OPEN TUE. - FRI., 10AM-6PM, SAT., 10AM-2PM

3475 Stone Mountain Hwy Snellville, GA 30078

770-972-7026

Where pets are treated like family!

“Are we your missing puzzle piece?”

Now serving Knight Elementary for the 2017-2018 school year! Continuing to serve Arcado, Brookwood, Camp Creek, Craig, Gwin Oaks and R.D. Head Elementary Schools.

Serving our community since 2005.

Register Your Children Today!

Be sure to mention you saw this ad in Our Town Magazine!

Ages 6 weeks to 4 years old.

We implement age appropriate Creative Curriculum in all classes.

See our website for details.

FIVE FORKS ACADEMY

(770) 982-2000

www.fiveforksacademy.com Our Town

3079 Five Forks Trickum Road Lilburn, GA 30047

AJW Enterprises Inc. DBA Five Forks Academy

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 7

Brookwood High’s Ruby Lee Selected as Semi-Finalist for Presidential Scholars Program

Let our team of real estate professionals help you with your real estate needs.

2017

ate h your

By Kim Hill When Our Town last spoke with Ruby Lee, she had joined three fellow Brookwood High School orchestra students in the honor of being selected to perform at New York’s Carnegie Hall. Now a senior, the talented Ms. Lee is being recognized once again – this time as a semi-finalist for the U. S. Presidential Scholars Program. The program, established by executive order of the president in 1964, recognizes graduating seniors who demonstrate excellence in academics, leadership, and school and community service. It was expanded in 1979 to include those students who, in addition to academic excellence, exhibit talent in visual, creative, and performing arts, and in 2015 it broadened to spotlight accomplishment in career and technical fields.

Ms. Lee, who is Brookwood’s 2018 Salutatorian, says she was initially selected for the program’s application process based on her grade point average. She was then required to write an essay about something that had impacted her life and to include an applicable photograph. Ms. Lee chose a photo of an old restaurant called Buffalo House to represent the wing shop her family opened when they arrived in America. Ms. Lee was about four years old at that time, and the essay relays her experiences in the restaurant in downtown Atlanta and how that exposure impacted her growth.

Ms. Lee also had to select her most influential teacher. She chose Vicky Smith, her sophomore AP World History teacher. “Before high school I was super STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) heavy,” Ms. Lee explains, “but she’s the one who inspired me. She said you can do so much with a history and liberal arts background.”

Another component of the application was to describe an experience involving struggle or overcoming failure. At a very young age, Ms. Lee almost drowned trying to retrieve a life vest that had floated out into the ocean. After that, she had a huge fear of water and would avoid beaches and pool parties. “I was fine,” she explains, “because to be honest you can live life without swimming. But as I started to try new things, like ultimate Frisbee and art, if I realized I wasn’t good at it, I immediately

• 130 transactions closed • Average 31 days on market • OurLet our team of real estate listings sold for professionals help you with your 98.36%real estate needs. of list price

rket 36% of

2017

Call• today to put our proven 130 transactions closed track record to work for you.

• Average 31 days on market

n track u.

• Our listings sold for 98.36% of list price

72

Kathy Coots 770 654-8972 Call today to put our proven track www.KathyCoots.com record to work for you.

m

Kathy Coots 770 654-8972 www.KathyCoots.com

Continued on page 20

Join us for one or both Grief Seminar sessions!

Dr. Alan Wolfelt

FREE COMMUNITY SESSION

Grief Seminar

Loving From the Outside In, Mourning From the Inside Out THURSDAY

September 6th 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Register today for this FREE event:

WagesandSons.com/Seminar OR: 770-277-4550

PROFESSIONAL SESSION

Exploring the Paradoxes of Mourning FRIDAY

September 7th 9:00am – 3:30pm PAGE 8

presented by

Lawrenceville | Stone Mountain

WagesandSons.com

Lawrenceville (770) 277-4550

Stone Mountain (770) 469-9811

“This is the best workshop I have ever attended!” $60 A CEU credited event

Preregister today: WagesandSons.com/Seminar OR: 770-880-9873

“Dr Wolfelt is so passionate about caregiving and grief.

He inspires me to more deeply pursue my passion.”

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Are you Certified to Operate a Forklift?

FORKLIFT ACADEMY ATLANTA meets the requirements of OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178(I) for OSHA-Compliant Powered Industrial Truck and Forklift Operator Training. Must be at least eighteen years old, pass written and driving tests in a one day class that includes classroom and hands on training with forklifts. Certification valid for three years anywhere in North America. Job references available. Call or visit:

(678) 884-8777 atlanta.forkliftacademy.com

We’re Hiring Bus Drivers!

We’re Hiring Bus Drivers!

• Competitive hourly wages

We’re Hiring Bus Drivers!

We’re Hiring Bus Drivers!

Bene its & paid training •• Competitive hourly wages Required havetraining a good driving record •• Bene its &topaid • Competitive hourly wages •• Must havetoahourly High aSchool Diplomarecord or GED Required have good driving Competitive wages • •Benefits & paid training Callits 678-225-7670 applyorto • Must have a High Schooland Diploma GED • Bene & paid training

• Required to have a good driving record posting #have 52993 atand GCPSjobs.org Call 678-225-7670 applyrecord to Required aSchool good driving • •Must havetoa High Diploma or GED

• Lawn Care • Tree & Shrub Care • Core Aeration • Seeding • Fire Ant Control • Water Management • Same-Day Free Estimates $25.00 first lawn treatment

New customers only up to 6,000 sq. ft. when you agree to our 7-8 treatment program.

Not valid with any other discount offer.

posting at GCPSjobs.org • Must have a#52993 High School Diploma or GED @GCPSHR

Call 678-225-7670 and apply to Call 678-225-7670 and apply to @GCPSHR posting #52993 at GCPSjobs.org posting #52993 at GCPSjobs.org @GCPSHR @GCPSHR

Our Town

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 9

Conservative Spine & Joint Center

Please Visit ReClif.com se Visit ReClif.com e Visit ReClif.com Please Visit ReClif.com e Visit ReClif.com e Visit ReClif.com Please Visit ReClif.com

Interventional Pain Management At the Conservative Spine & Joint Center At the Conservative Spine & Joint we strive to provide a conservative, Center we strive to providetoa help you with comprehensive program conservative, comprehensive all musculoskeletal problems including: program to help you with all v back and neck pain v joint pain musculoskeletal problems v muscles including: v pinch Ruben Diaz, M.D. -back andnerves neck pain Interventional Physiatrist v tendons and nerve problems -joint pain Board Certified in PM&R v numbness on hands and legs Board Certified in Pain Medicine -muscles Ruben Diaz, M.D. goal is to help you minimize pain -pinch“Our nerves “Our goal is to help you minimize pain Interventional Physiatrist and the need for chronic pain medications, -tendons and nerve problems and the need for Certified chronic in pain Board PM&R avoid unnecessary surgeries, increase your medications, avoid unnecessary -numbness hands andyour legsquality of life.” functionon and improve Board Certified in Pain Medicine

changing the conversation surrounding autism.

changing the conversation Please Visit ReClif.com changing the conversation changing the conversation surrounding autism. changing the conversation changing the conversation surrounding autism. surrounding autism.autism. surrounding changing theautism. conversation surrounding changing surrounding autism.the conversation surrounding autism.

CHANGING THE CONVERSATION *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS SURROUNDING AUTISM.

changing the conversation *SPECIALFIT FIT PROGRAMS *SPECIAL PROGRAMS *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS Individual functional surrounding autism. fitness session specifically *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS Individual functional fitness session specifically *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS designed for those on thespecifically autism spectrum.

- Individual functional fitness session specifically - Individual functional fitness session designed for those on the autism spectrum. *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS -- Individual functional fitness session specifically Individual designed functional for those fitness onthose thesession autism spectrum. designed for on thespecifically autism spectrum.

- Individual functional session specifically FIT LIGHT TRAINING designed for on autism spectrum. designed for those thosefitness on the the autism spectrum.

FIT LIGHT TRAINING designed - Individual for those functional on the autism fitness spectrum. session specifically FIT LIGHT TRAINING surgeries, increase your function and FIT LIGHT TRAINING designed for those on the autism spectrum. *Se español habla español FIT LIGHT TRAINING Engaging multi-sensory training tool used to promote FIT LIGHT TRAINING *Se habla improve your quality of life.” *SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS -Engaging Engaging multi-sensory trainingtool toolused usedtotopromote promote LIGHT TRAINING neural reorganization.

-FIT multi-sensory training - Engaging multi-sensory training tool used to promote neuralreorganization. reorganization.

FIT LIGHT TRAINING -- Engaging multi-sensory training 720 Old Snellville Hwy, Suite 150 Engaging neural multi-sensory training tool tool used used to to promote promote neural reorganization.

Individual functional fitness session specifically - Engaging multi-sensory training tool used to promote Lawrenceville, GA 30044 INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY neural reorganization. neural reorganization. designed for those on the autism spectrum.

INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY Phone: (770)601-4340 neural reorganization.

Engaging multi-sensory training tool used to promote Evidence based modality that facilitates improved INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY Evidence based modality that facilitates improved neural reorganization.

INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY motor skills and sensory processing.

-INTERACTIVE Evidence basedMETRONOME modality that facilitates THERAPY improved - Evidence based modality that facilitates improved FIT LIGHT TRAINING motor skills and sensoryprocessing. processing.

METRONOME THERAPY --INTERACTIVE Evidence based modality that facilitates improved Evidence motor skills based and modality sensory that facilitates improved motor skills and sensory processing.

- Evidence INTERACTIVE based modality that METRONOME facilitates improved THERAPY SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE motor and sensory motor skills skills and sensory processing. processing.

Engaging multi-sensory training tool used toimproved promote SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE motor skills Evidence and sensory based processing. modality that facilitates Teaching purposeful communication from paper choices SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE neural reorganization.

Teaching purposeful communication from paper choices motor skills and sensory processing.

SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE up to independent keyboarding.

SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE - Teaching purposeful communication from paper - Teaching purposeful communication fromchoices paper choices independent keyboarding. from TO COMMUNICATE --SPELLING Teaching communication Teaching purposeful communication from paper paper choices choices upuptotoindependent keyboarding. uppurposeful to independent keyboarding.

INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY - Teaching SPELLING purposeful communication TO COMMUNICATE from paper choices THERAPEUTIC YOGA up keyboarding. up to to independent independent keyboarding.

- Evidence based modality that facilitates improved THERAPEUTIC YOGA up toTHERAPEUTIC independent - Teaching keyboarding. purposeful communication from paper Achieve a healthier state of balance forchoices the YOGA YOGA THERAPEUTIC motor skills and sensory processing.

Achieve a healthier state of balance for the up to independent keyboarding.

THERAPEUTIC YOGA whole body.

THERAPEUTIC YOGA - Achieve a healthier state ofstate balance for the for the - Achieve a healthier of balance wholebody. body.

YOGA -THERAPEUTIC Achieve a healthier whole whole body. state of balance for the TOstate COMMUNICATE - Achieve aTHERAPEUTIC healthier ofYOGA balance for the wholeSPELLING body.

Teaching purposeful communication from whole-body.

- Achieve a healthier state of balance forpaper the choices up to independent whole body. keyboarding.

Community Outings / Events / Activities CommunityOutings Outings / Events/ Activities / Activities THERAPEUTIC YOGA Community / Events Community Outings / Events / Activities - Achieve a healthier of balance for the Community Outings //state Events Activities Community Outings Events // Activities Pointe Parkway, Suite 200 Community Outings /3200 Events / Activities whole body.

3200Pointe PointeParkway, Parkway, Suite 200 GA 30092 Peachtree Corners, 3200 Suite 3200 Pointe Parkway, Suite 200 Community Outings /200 Events / Activities Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

*SPECIAL FIT PROGRAMS

- Individual functional fitnessconservativespine.com session specifically designed for those on the autism spectrum.

FIT LIGHT TRAINING

- Engaging multi-sensory training tool used to promo neural Ages reorganization.

3-18 Starting at $99

3200 Parkway, 200 Peachtree Corners, GASuite 30092 3200 Pointe Pointe Parkway, Suite 20030092 Peachtree Corners, GA 678-691-5426 | reece@reclif.com RECLIF FITNESS BASED Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 3200 Pointe Parkway, Suite 200 Peachtree Corners,| GA 30092 678-691-5426 reece@reclif.com RECLIF FITNESS BASED 678-691-5426 | reece@reclif.com 678-691-5426 |Parkway, reece@reclif.com ECLIF FITNESS BASED THERAPY CENTER RECLIF FITNESS BASED Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 3200 Pointe Suite 200 678-691-5426 || reece@reclif.com 678-691-5426 reece@reclif.com HERAPY CENTER ECLIF FITNESS BASED Peachtree Corners, GA 30092 HERAPY CENTER THERAPY CENTER Community Outings / Events / Activities 678-691-5426 | reece@reclif.com ECLIF FITNESS BASED **CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION** HERAPY CENTER 678-691-5426 | reece@reclif.com RECLIF FITNESS BASED CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION** HERAPY CENTER ALL TODAY SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION** **CALL TO TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE INTAKE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION** THERAPY CENTER ALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION** Pointe Parkway, Suite 200 ALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT3200 EVALUATION**

THE GAME FOR EVERYONE!

INTERACTIVE METRONOME THERAPY - Evidence based modality that facilitates impro motor skills and sensory processing.

Peachtree Corners, GA 30092

ALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION** **CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION**

RECLIF FITNESS BASED THERAPY CENTER

678-691-5426 | reece@reclif.com

Soccer registration opens online on May 1st SPELLING TO COMMUNICATE WWW.GSASOCCER.COM **CALL TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR FREE RECLIF INTAKE AND SPECIAL FIT EVALUATION**

PAGE 10

- Teaching purposeful communication from pap up to independent keyboarding.

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Lilburn Elementary School: The Legomatics Team

Experience the nurturing side of healing at Body of Health!

Hurt Less Heal Quicker and Have a Better Quality of Life!

By Patty Gabilondo

n Massage Therapy

Meet the state champion robotics team from Lilburn Elementary School (LES): Lucas Niemi, Michelle Diep, Jaden Ha, Faith Mwangala, Juan Ramos-Pena, Shamira Villarreal, Gianna Chambry, Vinci Tu, Mina Lee, and Nevaeh Sullivan, collectively known as the Legomatics.

Although their name sounds like a rock band, their current accomplishment includes beating out 769 middle and elementary school STEM teams using their brains and teamwork.

Each year elementary and middle school STEM students are challenged to research a real-world engineering problem such as recycling, food safety, and energy issues, and their coaches/teachers help to guide them into designing and implementing a LEGO-based robotic solution using LEGO MINDSTORMS®.

This year’s challenge was in the field of Hydrodynamics, the branch of science that deals with the dynamics of fluids in motion. With clean drinking water believed by many to become the currency of the future, the Legomatics worked together to address the problem and to reduce usage. The team’s solution was to wipe down the water fountains with compostable wipes that could then be thrown into the school’s outdoor learning gardens, thereby using clean potable water from the fountains and reducing the environmentally damaging effects of the single-use non-compostable products.

“Perhaps the greatest draw for us as teachers,” says their coach Simone Dreifuss, “is the emphasis placed on Core Values.” The FIRST organization (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology), founded by Dean Kamen in 1989, has partnered with LEGO to create programs where teachers can help students develop critical thinking and team-building skills. The program’s core values emphasize discovery, teamwork, and good sportsmanship, and along the journey having fun, getting creative, and practicing presentation skills all within the parameters of basic STEM curriculum.

After winning the coveted State Championship, the Legomatics moved up to the FIRST Lego League World Championship held this past April in Houston, Texas. Imagine 33,000 students from over 60 countries coming together with their coaches and chaperones, competing on a table-top playing field and focusing on robot design and performance to attempt to solve a real-world engineering problem.

“Meeting people and kids from around the world was awesome,” stated Vinci Tu. “The city of Houston was beautiful, and we saw Minute Maid stadium,” said Mina Lee. “The side trip to the Johnson Space Center was a huge hit with all the students and chaperones alike!” added Dreifuss.

While the World Championship was out of reach, the Legomatics still hold the title of State Champions at LES, and according to their coach Beverly Allen, “These students represent the best the future has to offer!”

Next year’s Destination Deep Space theme promises to continue to inspire young people’s interest in science and technology, and perhaps encourage them to consider a career in one of the STEM fields.

More information at https://www.firstinspires.org/about/vision-and-mission

Thinking about BUYING OR SELLING Now is the best time to call me!

I VI AI AJ. J.B B OOL LI V UU CC KK MM OO NN 678.923.3232 Cell 678.923.3232 Cell 404.261.6300 Office 404.261.6300 Office 404.420.2692 Fax 404.420.2692 Fax obuckmon@beacham.com obuckmon@beacham.com www.beacham.com www.beacham.com

Our Town

www.bodyofhealthandlife.com

VOTED BEST of

GWINNETT

2017!

n Therapeutic Approach n Lymphatic Therapies

®

BestofGwinnett.com

n Post-op Recovery Navigators

Call today: 678-344-0050 2321 Henry Clower Blvd., Ste A Snellville, GA

DeKalb Psychiatric Associates 2711 Irvin Way, Suite 211 v Decatur, GA 30030

Neil A. Kahn MD v Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry Brittany Burchfield PhD v Adult and Child Psychologist

Accepting new patients Medicare and most major insurance plans accepted Call 404.501.0001 for more information and to schedule appointments

Atlanta’s Premier J U N K R E M O VA L S E R V I C E Commercial & Residential Moving & Deliveries Available Junk Removal: Household Items, Appliances, Furniture, Fencing, Trees, Yard Waste & Debris

Clean Outs: Free Attics, Garages, Estimates Basements, Storage Units, Offices, Construction Sites

678-973-9594 • Norcross, GA WeHaulStuff.com

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 11

Gwinnett’s premier event destination for 20 years!

One on One with Lilburn Farmers Market

By George Partington

Weddings & receptions, holiday parties, anniversary celebrations, sweet 16 parties, corporate events and more!

(770) 972-6540 • www.vecoma1.com 11108_Dr. Chris's Natural Remedies July Ad Dr. Ashley Reed ad.pdf 1 7/25/2017 11:40:41 AM

Dr.Dr. Chris’ At Chris'Natural NaturalRemedies Remedies,

has partnered with Dr. Belinda we don’t consider ourselves Millington in an effort to help to be alternative healthcare more people heal naturally. Dr. providers. replace Millington We is a don’t MD, DC. Her allopathic medicine, but passion as a Medical Doctor it. people As holistic iscomplement a desire to help like you become less dependent practitioners, we get to know on prescription medication for you, help you with your goals, daily living. Her office is located and give you options.

Dr. Ashley Reed ad.pdf 1 7/25/2017 AM next door 11:40:41 to ours in Suite C. C

M

Y

Naturopathy Chiropractic Care Corrective Exercises Lifestyle Advice Nutritional Counseling

Fresh. Local. Healthy. That’s what you will find at the Lilburn Farmers Market. Fresh, locally produced goods that help you stay healthy and happy.

It’s a recipe that has been working for the south Gwinnett community for the past eight years. And June 1st marked the opening of the market’s ninth season. Through August you can visit the market every Friday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church at 1400 Killian Hill Road in Lilburn. This year the market is participating in the Georgia Fresh 4 Less program, which doubles the amount on SNAP/EBT cards dollar for dollar spent at the market. For example, $10 on a SNAP/ EBT card becomes $20 worth of buying power at the market.

If you have a craving for a farm fresh tomato bursting with flavor or a real Georgia peach, you will find them at the market, along with lots of other fresh fruits and vegetables. And while produce takes center stage, you will also find vendors selling herbs, preserves/jellies, baked goods, milk, cheese, meats, honey, pasta, and handcrafted soaps and candles. And there is, in fact, a stage at the Lilburn Farmers Market, where local musicians add some rootsy music to the festive atmosphere.

In addition to the farmers and vendors, community residents have market manager Mandy McManus, as well as co-manager Andrea Brannen, to thank for their summer time tradition.

McManus says her efforts are very rewarding. “I like seeing the repeat customers every week walking in with an empty bag and leaving with an overflowing shopping bag with ingredients for meals they are planning to make for the week. I love seeing the smiles, the happy people,” she says.

Many of them, of course, are friends and neighbors of the long-time Lilburn resident. McManus raised two daughters in Lilburn. Older daughter Jessamy, 25, is a painter who works for an art consulting group, while Jolee, 21, is a junior at the University of Georgia, majoring in creative writing.

With kids’ activities, tractor rides, face painting, a free library, food trucks, and chef demos with ingredients from the market, smiles are plentiful at the Lilburn Farmers Market. “It’s a fun family night out,” says McManus. “It is a unique opportunity to interface directly with the farmer or producer or baker or creator of the item. You can’t do that at a grocery store or anywhere else.”

More information at http://www.lilburnfarmersmarket.org/

Open House

Myofascial Release Spinal & Postural Screenings

Pre-K - 8th Grade

CM

Strength through Faith and Knowledge

MY

es, CY

ves CMY

are K

Naturopathy Chiropractic Care

ce

Corrective Exercises

but

Lifestyle Advice

1982 Main Street E | Snellville, GA 30078

Nutritional Counseling

770.979.5125

tic

ow

als,

Myofascial Release Spinal & Postural Screenings Dr. Reed Morgan, | Doctor of Chiropractic Dr.Ashley Kriscinda Naturopath

PAGE 12

-

Catholic Christian Values Community Service Family Involvement Financial Aid Extended Day Program Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

Tuesdays 9:30AM - 10:30AM

drchrisnaturalremedies.com This office complies with applicable Federal Civil Rights Laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

1994

791 TOM SMITH ROAD, LILBURN, GA 30047

770.381.0557 tel

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049 OpenHouse 5 x 7 001-D.indd 1

www.SJNRCS.org

Our Town

11/28/2017 2:50:23 PM

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Annaliese Mayo — Beauties Against Bullies

By Patty Gabilondo How were you spending your days when you were sixteen? Studying for tests, hanging out with friends, dreaming about summer vacation?

Parkview High School sophomore Annaliese Mayo does all that, and so much more.

When you look at her photos, you probably won’t be surprised to learn that she is a talented violinist who has been playing since the age of 3. You probably won’t be surprised to learn that she is also a part-time professional model. You probably won’t be surprised to learn that she won Miss Cumming Fair’s Outstanding Teen, or that she recently competed for the Miss Georgia’s Outstanding Teen competition in Columbus, GA. However, when you look beyond the surface of this title-holding beauty queens’ softer side, you might be surprised (and frankly a bit in awe) by the fiercely competitive spirit that has earned her the rank of sergeant in the Marine Corps JROTC (MJROTC) program and the Superior Marksmanship Award for the highest average on the Rifle Team. Mayo ranks #11 in the Georgia High School Association Rifle Championship, qualifies for the Marine Corps National and All Service National Rifle Championships, and is getting ready to launch Beauties Against Bullies, a world-wide photo campaign to help young people stand up for themselves when bullied.

The Miss Georgia Outstanding Teen organization that Mayo will be participating in is a sister program of the Miss America Organization. Its mission is to nurture scholastic achievement and encourage healthy living and community involvement. But make no mistake – it is a fierce competition requiring poise and stamina. The Miss America Organization is the largest scholarship provider for young women in the world. Each contestant must be able to communicate effectively in public, to stand up for what they believe in, and be willing to serve as a role model for others as they travel during their reign.

Each contestant is expected to identify a cause that she can support publicly as a show of her core values and principles. Annaliese has declared Beauties Against Bullies as her platform.

According to Mayo, “My goal is to use my personal experience to help the kids who are being bullied to stand up to their bullies and show them they can survive and thrive. I hope to help the kids who are being bullies to stop the mean things they are doing.” She recently visited Lilburn Elementary School where she demonstrated the toothpaste analogy, explaining that words are like toothpaste. “One of the children squeezed the toothpaste out of the tube, and then we discussed how once you say something, you can’t take it back.”

Continued on page 18

Custom Kitchens, Bathrooms, Closets

Put our team to work for you!

What is Your Home Worth? www.real-estate-prices.com

We are always adding new homes to our inventory!

Sign-up for updates on our web site.

Experience the Difference! Our team is experienced, creative, technology savvy and strong communicators. We offer strong, focused marketing, buyer and seller tools and excellent transaction management. www.smokeriseagents.com

Pat Soltys • DeeDee Wilson Mike San Fratello Corbett Jordan • Jason Oldham Sonia Hellen • Ethlyn Clark Jessi Ramsey • Rachel Bass

1509C General Arts Rd., Conyers, GA 30012 Call for pricing at 770-921-2569 or visit us at the RFS Showroom! rfscab.com Our Town

3350 Northlake Parkway Tucker, GA 30345 • 404.235.8900

• Exclusive Honor & Respect Program • No Transaction or other Fees • Multiple Web Sites for Each Listing • Custom Search Tools • Professional Photography • No Dual Agency, You Are Represented

770.573.9715

High Tech - High Touch, Service Worthy of Recommendation

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 13

pleased thly We are r mon ce lowe class n u o n n r to a ates. Ou o days tuition r m o tw range fr h week. s n io t p o ays eac to five d rents’ Morning ll r Pa We offe ursdays this fa h Out on T $80/month. at only

Now registering for 2018-19 Call for a tour today: 678-533-0558 Kindergarten Preschool (15 months-4 years) Parents’ Morning Out (6 to 23 months)

School hours are 9:20-1:20 Inquire about extended care for ages 3+

Open House 5901 Hugh Howell Road, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 Rev. Deborah Reeves, Interim Director

July 28 10a.m.

Snellville Events on the Towne Green

July 14

QUEEN NATION IN CONCERT Food, Beer, 6 to 9 p.m.

Wine On Site!

Concert Table Reservation Contact kmacstat@gmail.com PAGE 14

Aug. 3

FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY 4 to 8 p.m.

•Cousins Maine Lobster •South of Philly •Mellow Mushroom •Mac the Cheese •Exotic Cue •ATL Burger Truck

www.SnellvilleEvents.com

•Sticks & Cones •Kona Ice

•Tracy’s Tasties

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Safety First with Summer Fun in Lawrenceville

We’re halfway We’re halfway We’re halfway through the year!

We’re halfway through theyear! year!

We’re halfway through the through the year! through the year!

HALF HALF HALF PRICE HALF PRICE PRICE PRICE TO PRICE JOIN JOIN JOIN JOIN

By Kristen Eleveld Now that summer is in full swing, you and your family are probably enjoying the gorgeous days, cool nights, and all the fun in between. We want this summer to be a great one – and a safe one. That’s why we talked to the Lawrenceville Police Department about the top tips they have for staying safe this season.

TO TO TO TO ****

* LIMITED TIME ONLY LIMITED TIME ONLY LIMITED LIMITED TIME TIME ONLY ONLY LIMITED TIME ONLY LIMITED TIME ONLY

Tip #1: Plan Your Days The great thing about summer is that it’s more flexible. But while your days may be less structured, local officers caution you to make a plan with your kids for their daily routine. Arrange some playdates, find a great childcare center, or give your older children a list of tasks to complete each day. You don’t need to fill every second, but giving your kids a little bit of structure over the summer can keep them safe and keep boredom from setting in.

Tip #2: Make an Emergency Plan While you’re making plans, the Lawrenceville PD strongly suggests talking to your kids about a plan for emergencies over the summer. If you’re at an event with your family, it’s important for each member to know what to do if you all get separated. You might tell them to meet at a landmark, send out a group text, or to look for a certain storefront so everyone can find each other.

The police department also urges each family to talk to their children about the basics of first aid and emergency services. Even young children can learn how to dial 911 and can memorize their address. If your child can read, you can list out important steps for emergencies and post them in an easily visible place, like the refrigerator. Keep your plan simple, and practice it often.

SUMMER of STRENGTH

It’s never It’s never It’s never too late to It’s never too late to too late to It’s never get started! too late to get started! getlate started! too to get started!

Join today! getJoin started! today!

Join today!

Join today!

Join today!

L AL R S EA RS RE ER BL

This summer, Locally Owned Locally Owned and and Operated Operated strong is stunning!

Locally Operated Locally Owned Owned and and Operated

Tip #3: Keep Track of Your Valuables One of the best ways to lose something valuable is to leave it in your car and walk away – only to have it stolen by a watchful observer. This type of crime, according to Lawrenceville police, easily makes up the highest percentages of thefts that are reported. Always lock your car, and never leave valuables inside.

Another way to keep your valuables where they belong is to give them each a serial number. Keep Continued on page 18 12279_Dogwood forest full page ad.pdf 2 1/26/2018 2:44:30 PM

*

Locally Owned and Operated

M EEA B E RM M ALE EESRRUSSLLT ME TS S ERELMMRBBE MM SULTS LE A E L AR RER AE S.cU mL//TS E o S R R U R s m L e EEs-s.cSstoorieie/ss ACM rv B R EE urv e RRM L m or u essEACsu succ es.cstoorL rves UormieieTs/sS CuScc REALER Ees-Ss-s.ststco Rrves Cucc su REBALsuccess.c MEM om/s S e T ie rv L RECSsuuUccess-stor REAL / s.com Curve stories

ssucces 2144 Fountain Square, Snellville, GA. 30078 2144 Fountain Square, Snellville, GA. 30078 2144Locally Fountain Square, Snellville, GA. 30078 Owned and Operated 678.344.0200 678.344.0200 678.344.0200 2144 Fountain Square, Snellville, GA. 30078 678.344.0200

* Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location. Offer expires 6/30/17 and requires joining same day as first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring * Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location. Offer expires 6/30/17 and requires joining same day as first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating locations only. No cash value. * Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location.

Offer expires 6/30/17 and requires same dayatas first visit forlocations a minimum 12-month billing contract.

Valid for new Curves members only.

Not valid with any other offer or joining discount.

Valid participating only.

No cashrecurring value. * billing Enrollment fee and varymembers by location.

Offer expires 6/30/17 and requires joining same day as first visit forlocations a minimum recurring © Not 2017 Curves International, Inc. (1704) contract.

Validmonthly for newfees Curves only. valid with any other offer or discount. at participating only.12-month No cash value. © 2017 Curves (1704)Valid billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only.

Not valid withInternational, any other offerInc. or discount.

Valid at participating locations only. No cash value. © 2017 Curves International, Inc. (1704) * Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location. Offer 6/30/17 and requires Inc. joining same day as first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring © expires 2017 Curves International, (1704) billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating locations only. No cash value. © 2017 Curves International, Inc. (1704)

* Enrollment fee and monthly fees vary by location. Offer expires 6/30/17 and requires joining same day as first visit for a minimum 12-month recurring billing contract. Valid for new Curves members only. Not valid with any other offer or discount. Valid at participating locations only. No cash value.

You are invited to our July Events! © 2017 Curves International, Inc. (1704)

Hydration Seminar

with Jennifer Hazell

Wednesday July 11th 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

One Year Celebration

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

Join us for Our Wednesday July 25th 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.

RSVP Requested 678-496-2319 www.dogwoodforest.com/grayson

Block Party

RSVP Requested 678-496-2319 www.dogwoodforest.com/grayson TOURS DAILY

Our Town

ASSISTED LIVING & MEMORY CARE

1754 Grayson Highway Grayson GA 30017

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 15

Up Close in Lawrenceville: Beat the Heat – Or At Least the Boredom BOOKKEEPING SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES & INDIVIDUALS

BOOKKEEPING SERVICES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES & INDIVIDUALS

GROW BOOKKEEPING, LLC

Let Grow Bookkeeping take the day-to-day

By Kristen Eleveld Let Grow Bookkeeping take the day-to-day burden of bookkeeping burden bookkeeping off you yourmore shoulders, off yourof shoulders, leaving time and energy to concentrate School’s out, summer’s in, and everyone has more time and onleaving growingyou your business andenergy freeingtoup your personal time. the same question: Now what? concentrate on growing your business and With more free time and great weather to go payroll • account reconciliation • rental properties •along elder management withbill it, you know you want to get out freeing up your personal time. and do something. But you might not have any

404.719.4769 | info@growsmc.com | www.growsmc.com ideas. And that’s the good news: We do!

payroll • account reconciliation • rental properties • elder bill management 404.719.4769 | info@growsmc.com | www.growsmc.com

12

AURORA THEATRE

Gwinnett’s

678-469-1599 | scottpressurewash@gmail.com

The city of Lawrenceville has a history of making summer one of the best seasons to celebrate, and this year is no exception. Whether you’re looking for a great date night or a chance spend time as a family, there is no shortage Only toProfessional Theatre of options waiting for you just down the road.

After an extra-long winter, this summer is all about the outdoor fun. If you love old and new movies alike, you’ll want to head to Movies on the Lawn to catch some of these fabulous flicks and features.

Of course, you won’t want to skip dinner – you can check out some of the delicious cuisine from the food trucks, or head to a local restaurant on the square to start your evening off right.

“We love eating in the square,” says Sherry Ward, who has been a resident of Lawrenceville for the last twenty years. “Some of our favorites are McCray’s Tavern and Dominic’s. It’s great to have such a wide variety to choose from.”

Mrs. Ward’s favorite activity to attend is the Summer Concert Series, which also takes place on the Lawn a couple of times each month over the summer.

“My husband and I are really excited about the Eagles tribute band coming at the end of July,” Mrs. Ward adds. “We love going to these events because it make us feel like we’re part of a community.”

Of course, no summer in Lawrenceville is complete without their legendary Fourth of July celebration. You won’t want to miss the chance to be part of this year’s events – especially because 2018 is particularly exciting. Lawrenceville will commemorate 200 years of Gwinnett County history, looking back at how Gwinnett has changed over the last two centuries, and how its residents are what make it so great. While the actual bicentennial date falls in mid-December, the city couldn’t miss the chance Continued on page 19

Walker Law Firm

A recent client talks about our handling his divorce....

“Thank you very much for the compassionate, smooth and professional handling of a very sensitive procedure. I especially appreciate the extra steps you took in providing electronic copies of documents to help me simplify the logistics of working with a defendant residing in Europe. ... As I mentioned to Mr. Walker during our first meeting, I selected your firm for your business law expertise but am pleased with how the divorce was handled ... I will recommend your services for both domestic and business matters to my friends and associates.” – CW

LARGEST SELECTION of handguns in the region at the lowest prices, guaranteed.

FIREARMS • AMMUNITION • ACCESSORIES GUN RANGE • TRAINING CLASSES & MUCH MORE

What our latest estate planning client had to say: “Mr. Walker was very professional. He was able to help us navigate through the will preparation process. The end result is that we will have the legal documents in place to handle our affairs as we enter life’s final stages.” – JS

We have you covered! Largest selection of calibers of ammunition in the state.

WORTH THE DRIVE. 405 Killian Hill Road NW

Lilburn • 770-923-9810 Extended Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-10pm • Sun 12pm-7pm www.mainstreetgunsandrange.com PAGE 16

770-972-3803

Our Firm handles wills and probate, all divorce-related matters, and small business matters.

About our Staff, from a probate client : “Thank you, Sandy... you have been wonderful to work with and made this painful process easier on our family by being professional, comforting, and great communication keeping us aware every step of the way.

We will be contacting David and yourself after the first of the year to manage our will.” – LT

Licensed in GA and DC — Certified Mediator North Gwinnett office – 2330 Scenic Hwy., Snellville GA 30078 South Gwinnett office – 6340 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth GA 30097 email: david.walker.lawfirm@gmail.com website: www.walker-law-firm.com

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

PS0202 MECH OTG 1/2h 4C 2018-07 JUL-CREATING HOME.indd 1

6/7/18 12:49 PM

Celebrating 20 Years Of Making Smiles Blossom!

“Where Smiles Blossom” Janice J. Wilmot DMD • MS • PC O RRTTH HO D DO O N T IIC SSPP E C I A ALLIISSTT

Let Your Smile Shine This Summer Time

• FREE EXAM

Includes a digital panoramic x-ray and photographs. A $190 value

• BOARD CERTIFIED Our Town

• MOST INSURANCES ACCEPTED & FILED

• BRACES FOR

CHILDREN & ADULTS

2018

Gwinnett Orthodontics 956 Killian Hill Rd. Suite D Lilburn, GA 30047

770-921-2233 jjwilmot-ortho.com

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 17

Safety First with Summer Fun Continued from page 15 an inventory of the items that you would want police to be able to track and return, and make sure it’s up to date. You can get creative with this by making up your own serial numbers – use your initials, meaningful dates, or other memorable ways to label and organize your keepsakes. If your items do go missing, you have a current list ready to go – making it that much more likely they will be found before it’s too late.

Mission Statement: At Gwinnett OB-GYN, we strive to serve our patients with exceptional healthcare, compassion, and understanding. We want to be recognized as a committed resource for guidance and support in women’s healthcare by creating a trusted and safe environment for the needs of all women.

1700 Tree Lane Road Suite 290 Snellville, GA 30078

770-972-0330

Tip #4: Be Part of Your Community “If you’re going to be in a community, you have to be attached, not detached,” says Lieutenant Jake Parker, who has served with the Lawrenceville police department since 2000. “Get to know your neighbors and get to know your street.”

In order to help your neighborhood, stay safe, be part of it! Become familiar with your neighbors’ cars and daily routines and observe what’s happening around you on a daily basis. You don’t need to start following your neighbor to the grocery store, but it’s important to know the basics so you can spot something out of place.

If something does seem off, speak up! Reach out to your local police department to let them know something might be wrong. Don’t wait until the next day – if something is going on, the police are much more likely to catch a suspect or find information when you contact them immediately.

Now that you know where to start, you can help keep Lawrenceville safe this summer, so everyone can enjoy the fun! Remember – be smart, be safe, and be part of your community.

More information at www.lawrencevillega.org/187/Police-Department

Beauties Against Bullies Continued from page 13 Judging consists of extensive personal interviews, a talent competition, athletic wear/swimsuit competition and evening wear, plus participation in two stage shows. Then if they are lucky enough to pass through to the semi-finals, the girls get to do it all again with more interviews and clothing challenges. Much like training for a sharpshooting competition, Mayo’s mother, Jolie, confirms, “Preparation time is a constant family affair. These young women who compete are so highly qualified for anything that life has to offer, and this competition is so much more than the beauty aspect!”

When she is not wearing either her “Camo Cover” for MJROTC or her “sparkly hat” as she refers to her crown, Mayo continues to pursue her long-term goals of attending Georgia Southern University on a Rifle scholarship to study to become a Special Education teacher.

More information about “Beauties Against Bullies” via Annaliese Mayo on Twitter.

Celebrating each life like no other.

Celebrating each life like no other.

Celebrating each life like no other.

Celebrating each life like no other.

No two No of two us are A memorial service should of alike. us are A alike. memorial service should No two ofalike. us are A memorial service should reflect that.

Whether your family is in need of immediate reflect that.

Whether your family is in need of immediate No two of usfamily are is alike.

A memorial service should reflect that.

Whether your in need of immediate service or service interested in planning can rely on or service interested in ahead, planning ahead, you can rely on reflect that.you Whether your family iscan in need of immediate or interested in planning ahead, you rely on ®Memorial ® professionals your Dignity professionals to interested help youtocreate a tocreate yourMemorial Dignity help you a create ® professionals service or in planning ahead, you can your Dignity Memorial help you a rely on unique and meaningful send-off. ® professionals to help you create a unique and meaningful send-off. your Dignity Memorial unique and meaningful send-off. unique and meaningful send-off.

ETERNAL HILLS ETERNAL HILLS HILLS ETERNAL Funeral Home & Cremation & Memory Gardens Funeral Home & Cremation & Memory Gardens ETERNAL Funeral Home & Cremation & MemoryHILLS Gardens sNellVille sNellVille Funeral Home & Cremation & Memory Gardens sNellVille Gregory Williams

sNellVille 770-972-3155 EternalHillsFuneralHome.com 770-972-3155 EternalHillsFuneralHome.com General Manager 770-972-3155 EternalHillsFuneralHome.com 770-972-3155 EternalHillsFuneralHome.com

PAGE 18

3/26/17 1:48 PM3/26/17 To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

EternalHills_10x4-9369_PreNeedAtNeed_C.indd 1 615_4546_0438_EternalHills_10x4-9369_PreNeedAtNeed_C.indd 1 M6615_4546_0438_EternalHills_10x4-9369_PreNeedAtNeed_C.indd 1

M6615_4546_0438_EternalHills_10x4-9369_PreNeedAtNeed_C.indd 1

1:48 PM

Our Town

3/26/17 1:48 PM

3/26/17 1:4

Audiences of All Ages Flock to See The Incredibles 2

Up Close in Lawrenceville Continued from page 16

By Heidi Campbell Fourteen years ago, audiences were completely delighted by the Disney Pixar film The Incredibles.

On June 15th of this year, the long-awaited sequel hit the theaters, selling out nationwide. Directed and written by Brad Bird, The Incredibles 2 pulled in an astounding $180 million dollars in the opening weekend and got a 94% rating from Rotten Tomatoes. In the film, the beloved Parr family returns with a renewed sense of purpose, while maintaining their entertaining status as a family with superpowers.

The film is at once tender, action-packed, and humorous. On the very surface level, it is a film of good vs evil – the superheroes set normalcy aside to make the world a safer place. The backdrop of the film is the fight to make superheroes “legal” again. William Deaver (Bob Odenkirk) and his sister Evelyn (Catherine Keener) introduce plans to reinstate the super heroes. “It’s time to make some wrong things right,” says Deaver. “Help me bring supers back into the sunlight. We need to change people’s perceptions about superheroes and Elastigirl is our best play.” The Incredibles and Lucius Best (Frozone), played by Samuel L. Jackson, are pitted against the evil Screenslaver, a villain revealed only in the last quarter of the film, who is working against them from the start. Screenslaver tells the superheroes, “Supers are no longer in control… I am.”

Much of the film’s charm stems from the everyday struggles found in the average family. While the youngest audience members might not catch the depth of some of the parenting issues, they are not lost on the Gen X viewers and beyond. When Helen Parr, Elastigirl (Holly Hunter), agrees to work for Winston Deavor to reinstate the legality of superheroes, she thoughtfully tells her husband, “I know it’s crazy, right? To help my family, I got to leave it. To fix the law, I got to break it.” The struggle to manage life with kids is real, and Bob tells her, “You’ve got to, so our kids can have that choice.” The plan is set in motion, and the parents do what they must do for the benefit of all.

The family’s “daily struggles” also serve as the basis for much of the film’s humor. Bob, Mr. Incredible, assures his wife, “I’ll watch the kids. No problem.” Famous last words. Of course, he had no idea what kind of “problems” would ensue. Little did he know that he would struggle to help his son with his math homework. In frustration, he yells, “I don’t KNOW that way! Why would they change math? Math is math!” He also encounters the trials of a baby who wouldn’t sleep, not to mention a large helping of teenage girl drama. At the end of the first day, he is exhausted! The baby, Jack-Jack, provided loads of humor as he inhaled cookies, repeatedly escaped his crib, and wrestled a raccoon. This brush with the raccoon is where Jack-Jack realizes his superpowers, and the rest of the film follows his entertaining super-power “learning curve.”

Below the surface, the film weaves in an interesting mix of stereotypical and more modern gender roles. While the stay-at-home-dad humor might be a bit overused, Bob quickly adapts to his new role Continued on page 20 You and your team have one hour to explore mysterious rooms, solve clever puzzles and beat the game before time runs out!

to celebrate with its residents this summer.

“The Fourth of July events are always my favorite,” says Jenna Cooper, who was born and raised in the heart of Lawrenceville. “My family has a tradition of celebrating the Fourth of July as a family, and we always celebrate in the square.”

As always, the Independence Day fun happens on July 3rd, to give city workers time with their families on July 4th.

Movies and concerts aren’t the only ways to get involved with your community. If you want to find out more about where the city is heading for the next 100 years (or least the next 10), why not join one of the City Council meetings this summer? These meetings take place once a month and give you the opportunity to be part of the changes you want to see in your town. Anyone can attend – all you need to do is check the calendar for the next meeting date.

From concerts to movies to all types of celebrations in between, the people of Lawrenceville invite you to join them as they make the most out this summer. Grab your favorite chair, try a new restaurant, and we’ll meet you on the Lawn for all the fun.

More information at www.lawrencevillega.org.

Financing Options Available !

59

$

Cleaning, Exam & X-rays

(Reg. $149) Offer expires in 60 days.

Includes exam, cleaning (prophylaxis) & x-rays. New Patients Only.

Advertised fee is the minimum fee, subject to clinical need. One or more of the following ADA codes may reflect the treatment rendered under this offer. D0150, D0330, D0272, D0210, D1110.

100

$ -OR-

Off Treatment

Offer expires in 60 days. New Patients Only.

Enjoy a $100 savings on all treatment over $500. Call for details.

Call and ask about our services, including: • Crowns and Bridges • Orthodontics • Invisalign® Treatment

Richard P. Gangwisch, D.D.S., M.A.G.D., A.B.G.D. Board Certified General Dentist John D. Hulsey, D.M.D., F.A.G.D. General Dentist

(678)580-5642

2076 West Park Place Blvd - Stone Mountain, GA 30087 Our Town

912 Killian Hill Rd SW, Ste. 100 Lilburn, GA 30047

• Full Mouth Reconstruction • Teeth Whitening • Oral Cancer Screenings

Call Today!

678-710-3003

www.KillianHillDentalCare.com

*Offers not to be applied toward account balances or dental services already delivered and not in conjunction with any other offers, discounts or reduced-fee plans. Additional charges may be incurred for related services which may be required in individual cases.

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

ADV30662

• Cosmetic Dentistry • IV & Oral Sedation • Dental Implants

PAGE 19

New

Winner of Best of Gwinnett 2015-16-17

BIGGER AND BETTER CATERING

NOW OFFERING FULL BAR PRIVATE EVENT ROOM

Schedule Your Next Personal Event TODAY! Chef Specials Every Night

ocation New L1711 Athens Hwy., Grayson, GA 30017 470-375-4701 • fratellispizza-ny.com

Introducing TNT ACADEMY PRESENTS

NewELEMENTARY

SCHOOL Now Enrolling

5510 Lilburn Stone Mountain Road Summer Camp Stone Mountain, GA 30087

is an accredited • TNT Academy that encourages private school ess by academic succ rtunities for po providing op lop strengths students to deve challenges. and overcome and positive • Personalized nment learning enviro llence • Inspires exce e nerships with th • Embrace part s parent community and or m al, • Emphasizing cial, emotional intellectual, so owth and spiritual gr

Brookwood High’s Ruby Lee Continued from page 8 stopped doing it. I traced this back to my fear of water and how that hurt my self-confidence, so I knew I had to learn how to swim.” Re-learning how to swim was a turning point. “Now I like swimming, even though I am not good at it, and I like ultimate Frisbee and art. I think that is where I changed my outlook on life – that you don’t have to be perfect at everything. I think that is super important for everyone.”

Ms. Lee’s mom has inspired her and has always been supportive. “She is the one who decided to come to America,” she says. “I am super blessed that she brought us here. That has motivated me to take advantage of everything in America. In Korea I would not have had opportunities to do student government or orchestra. In Korea you either do studies or music – you can’t do a mix.” She is really interested in Korea’s educational system, where she says students go to school on Saturdays and the norm is to also attend a private institution after school where studies last until 10:00 at night throughout the school year. The academies also offer summer programs. “If parents don’t pay for these private academies, it is really easy to fall behind,” says Ms. Lee. “My family wasn’t well-off in Korea and probably wouldn’t have been able to afford that. Here in America there is more equity; everyone has more equal footing within education.”

Because of her academic success, Ms. Lee had lots of good options for college, and has decided to attend the University of Pennsylvania. “When I stepped off the airplane in Philadelphia, I knew that was my city,” she says. The opportunities she has experienced in America have given her aspirations of making a difference in her home country. “I am thinking of going to law school because I really want to work for educational justice in Korea.”

Incredibles 2 Continued from page 19 as the domestic leading man. Elastigirl, on the other hand, seems so buried in work that she seems to hardly have time to think about her family. Helen is given the chance to be the “breadwinner” while her husband stays home to care for the kids, which is certainly a growing trend in modern families.

She tells the other Supers, “Girls, come on! Leave the saving of the world to the men? I don’t think so!” The woman-power motif is strong for sure, and women are given not only hero status, but also the rare villain status as well.

The Incredibles 2 offers something for everyone. The story is fast-paced, comical, and endearing.

Baby Jack-Jack steals most of the show, and could successfully be the star of the next helping of Incredibles. This is the family movie of the summer for sure.

TNT will be serving the following: Grades: 1st through 5th grades Monday - Friday 8:30 am to 2:30 pm Extended care will be offered from 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm - at an additional cost Before care may be an option Students will need to bring a lunch, snacks and drinks. Microwaves are available that we can heat food in.

SAFE, NON-THREATENING environment Affordable tuition

Elementary Edu cation at TNT Academ y

• Small Classes • Foster Peer Le arning • Guided Work and Activity Centers • Sensory- Mot or Activities • Development of Cognitive powers throug h their Five “Senses” • Mirrors Real World- Work and Socialize w ith all ages and dispositions

3rd - 8th grade

www.tntacademy.com

770.921.3690 admin@tntacademy.com 1/2 off Registration with mention of this ad.

PAGE 20

Individualized Learning for your student!

Your student will be ahead of the government schools.

TAKE CHARGE of your child’s FUTURE!!!

GIVE them the BEST!!!!

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Book Club Revival

By Beth Volpert-Johansen Book club participation is on the rise. This is great news for people for whom the written word is a non-calorie handful of deliciousness meant to connect reader and writer with a world-wide audience. My personal research has shown book club participation leads to excellent conversation, new friendships, new connections with old friends, and connections one never considered.

One such consideration is Suwanee resident Daphene Jones, who gently floated into my own home on a Southern breeze when it was my turn to host my neighborhood book club. A bit overwhelmed by the sheer number of folks in my kitchen who had anticipated meeting the author of Our Southern Breeze, Daphene soon sized up the group and began to tell her story.

Our Southern Breeze gives the backstory of Daphene and her twin sister, Debbie Hall, upon whose life the book and movie Same Kind of Different as Me was based. Compelling in its own way, Our Southern Breeze gently dives into the circumstances that separated them as twins, what pulled them back together, and how, after losing her twin sister to a knock-down, drag-out fight with cancer, Daphene continues the legacy of reaching out to people who don’t even realize they need a good, warm Southern breeze to melt away a frozen heart.

“We all have a story,” says Daphene with a very Southern lilt to her voice. “I write about how we can all be restored to the people we were created to be.” It is that gentle drawl that makes her speaking events so compelling. Reaching out to women – mostly through ministry, but also through book clubs, luncheons, and any event where her story can intersect with the stories of others – is where the heart of Daphene’s personal mission continues. While her sister’s outreach and ministry directly addressed homelessness in Texas, Daphene speaks to women in need of hope and healing from any number of abuses. “You never know who in the audience believes they are not good enough, smart enough, pretty enough,” says Daphene. “We hear things we take in and we believe them.”

And as to the power of a book club, Daphene can attest to exactly how it affected her. After a family health crisis, Daphene had been feeling down, a little like she might not have the energy or drive to speak in public again. Then one day out of the blue, a woman she had briefly met at the Texas homeless shelter that was the setting for Same Kind of Different as Me extended an invitation to attend our little book club. “I immediately saw it – you loved on me and gave me the strength to know that this upcoming event I had committed to was something I could do,” says Daphene. “I smiled all the way home.”

Continued on page 22

Is Your Summer Body Ready?

Decreasecircumference.

Diminish fat.

Tighten skin.

A new dimension in body sculpting

BEFORE

AFTER ONE TREATMENT

BEFORE

AFTER ONE TREATMENT

BEFORE

AFTER ONE TREATMENT

Get rid of the fat that diet and exercise alone cannot!

Call for a complimentary consultation

678-822-9555 Now Offering Summer Classes – May 29-August 3

Now Offering Summer Classes – May 29-August 3 DRAMA Begins May 7, no audition to join.

Teen show, Aug. 24-26 KidsDRAMA show, Sept.Begins 14-16 May 7,

DANCE Weekly classes: Pre-School no audition to join. (ages 3-5), Adult Jazz / Tap. Dance Camps DANCE Weekly classes: Pre-School (ages 3-5), Adult5-13), Tap. 2-hour sessions 3 times a Teen show, Aug. 24-26 (ages Dance Camps (ages 5-7 / 8-13), 2 hour sessions, July 23, 25 & 27.

Kids show, Sept. 14-16 week, June 11, 13, 15 / July 23, 25, 27

Mention this ad and receive $100 Off! Also: Ask about our skin revitilization and laser hair removal packages!

MUSIC July 16-19 / July 23-26 ARTS CAMP July 16-19 / July 23-26; MUSIKGARTEN (ages July 1-5): 9-13, Twist And Turn FamilyMUSIC Music for pre-school child and parent; 8:30 a.m. at- 12:30 p.m. (ages MUSIKGARTEN Music Makers the Keyboard (ages5-12) 6-9). Individual music lessons (ages available1-5): all summer.

Donovan W. Christie, MD. Week of fun and arts exploration: Twist And Turn Family Music for M.D., C.P.E., F.A.A.F.M. CLASS DETAILS AND REGISTRATION: Orffwww.smokerisebaptist.org/arts instruments, Nature’s Music, pre-school|child and parent; 2227 Idlewood Road, Suite 10, Tucker, GA - 30084 678-533-0562 drum circles, ukulele, dulcimers, Music Makers at the Keyboard Our Town To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049 dance, stage, art, explore the (ages 6-9); Individual music

PAGE 21

PowerHouse Electric, LLC Owner

While the formats and delivery of written words continue to evolve, the appetite for those words appears nearly insatiable. What book clubs offer today’s readers is the opportunity to gather, bond, discuss, and create community based on common ground. The Gwinnett County Public Library maintains a calendar of available book clubs along with suggested readings from a variety of sources.

Visit them at www.Gwinnettpl.org for more local information. And if you are in need of the Hollywood perspective, check out the just released flick Book Club that’s all about book club gals and their antics. What further proof could you need?

In the meantime, put Our Southern Breeze on your list under Local Writers.

More information about booking Daphene Jones for speaking engagements at djones@djconsultants.com.

770-856-1845 (Text)

WE OFFER INFLATABLES, CONCESSIONS, TABLES AND CHAIRS.

S E R V I C E

&

R E P A I R

Taz Butler

Ice maker repair/ replacement

Book Club Revival Continued from page 21

Licensed & Insured No Job Too Small 22’ Waterslide

(678) 542-7899

www.JumpAllAround.com

Mention this ad and receive $25 off your inflatable rental. n Traditional, private middle and high school n Non-traditional high school n Credit Recovery n Accredit homeschool work n Accredited by the GAC- Georgia Accrediting Commission n HIGH ACT/SAT scoresWay above state averages n Accepted to all Colleges and Universities n Hope Scholarships/MOWR

TNT Academy 5510 Lilburn Stone Mountain Road Stone Mountain, GA 30087 Phone 770.921.3690 n Fax 770.921.3693 admin@tntacademy.com n www.tntacademy.com PAGE 22

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

The Village Corner German Restaurant, Bakery & Tavern We are a full-service bakery, restaurant, and tavern specializing in German cuisine.

Live Entertainment July 7 and 21 6655 James B Rivers Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30083

(770) 498-0329

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

Don’t let pain slow you down.

Let us focus on your full recovery so you can focus on what matters to you!

Our licensed physical therapists are musculoskeletal experts who can quickly identify the source of your pain and develop a plan for your quick recovery.

Call your local BenchMark today to set up an evaluation.

BUFORD I-85 2815 Buford Dr, Ste 102 (770) 271-4413

LAWRENCEVILLE 455 Philip Blvd, Ste 160 678) 985-0238

GRAYSON 2065 Grayson Hwy, Ste B (678) 376-0213

LILBURN 1227 Rockbridge Rd, Ste 402 (770) 925-9210

LILBURN – BEAVER RUIN **New Clinic** 4145 Lawrenceville Hwy NW Suite 8 (678) 691-7163 SNELLVILLE 2050 Scenic Hwy N, Ste A (678) 344-7197 SNELLVILLE CENTERVILLE HWY 124 3641 Centerville Hwy, Ste 400 (470) 365-2135

Our Town

To become an Our Town advertising partner email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 23