JULY 2014: Our Town Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Magazine

The Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Community and Family Magazine

Our Town July 2014

Grayson l Lawrenceville l Snellville l Lilburn l Stone Mountain l Tucker

Meet the team at Sports & Imports Collision, Inc., see story on page 5.

9 12 16 17

Community Spotlight: Meet Bryan Shepard Live4ward: It is My Choice Q & A with: Parkview Football Coach Eric Godfree All About Service & Community: One on One with Greg Wilson

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

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You’re Invited to Dr. Lorraine Gravante’s Summer Evening Open House Please join us for this One Night Only Celebration with Give-aways, Cocktails, and Hors D’oeuvres.

When: Thursday, July 16th from 5:30-7:00 PM Where: at our office - 2176 Oak Road, Suite D, Snellville, GA 30078 Please RSVP at 678.990.9400

by Monday, July 7th.

We look forward to meeting you at our Summer Evening Open House!

20% Discount on all products Raffle Drawing at 7:00 (you must be present to win!)

Lorraine Gravante, D.C. The Center for Natural Healing and Weight Loss 2176 Oak Road Suite D Snellville, GA 30078 www.drgravante.com

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NUTRITIONAL WORKSHOPS at Dr. Gravante’s office 6:00 PM

July 22nd and August 12th Please call to reserve your seat!

These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by PAGE 2 For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org Our Town Dr. Gravante is not 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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Sports Medicine Arthroscopic Surgery Joint Replacement Surgery PAGE 4

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

Our Town

On the Cover: Sports & Imports Collision, Inc. Weaves Quality into Everything They Do

By Heidi Campbell Human beings become attached to their cars: they take out loans for them, name them, detail them, and become distraught when their investments get damaged. Sports & Imports Collision, in Duluth, Chamblee, and Alpharetta, are award-winning body shops, dedicated to restoring damaged cars to their original beauty by giving attention to every detail. “Our main goal,” according to General Manager Michelle Hamilton Coombs, “is to make sure that we do the finest quality, safest repair in our industry.”

Quality is evident. While many body shops fix cars, not all shops invest in the extensive training and equipment to become “manufacturer certified.” Plaques adorning the entrance to the facility reveal manufacturer certifications for Mercedes Benz, Infiniti, Nissan, GTR, Ford, GMC, Chrysler, and Dodge. “Our technicians are also Lexus trained,” states Administrative Assistant Emily Behrendsen. Being on the forefront of technology, Sports & Imports is one of the very few aluminum certified shops in the Atlanta area.

ASE Certified Sports & Imports is dedicated to staying atop the latest repair technology. They are an “I-CAR GOLD” facility, a designation that reflects the highest level of training in the collision repair industry. They house a high-tech training room to host these industry programs for technicians, adjusters, and estimators. Behrendsen says, “We host all sorts of classes in everything from damage assessment to classes about wind noise and water leaks.”

Gene Hamilton, the now-retired owner, began his career buying and selling cars. By 1989, he turned the focus of his business to collision. When his daughter, Michelle Hamilton Coombs, became bored with her paralegal work, Hamilton eagerly suggested she come work with him. “I haven’t had a boring day since I came to work here!” she divulges with a smile.

Now the General Manager, Coombs enjoys being part of the family business. “Because we’re family owned,” she explains, “we care about everybody here as a part of our family. Aside from their great technical capabilities, we have good people to the core.”

This family-owned charm is very appealing to customers who are helped with insurance

claims, estimates, car rentals, and repairs. “We are truly the customer advocate,” explains Coombs. “When our customers come in here, they are emotionally exhausted and needing help.

Our job is more than just writing an estimate. Repairing vehicles is what we do every day, but we must remember the process is often all new to the customer.”

Insurance companies write preliminary estimates, which are typically a quarter of what it will actually cost to fix the car. Once in the shop, technicians take apart the vehicle and often find hidden damage, which Sales Manager Eric Hazelton points out, can be quite overwhelming. He admits, “We have had people literally almost pass out when they go back into the shop and see their car completely disassembled. They are amazed when we get it all back together!”

Next, additional damage is documented and the estimate is adjusted. The parts are ordered, the body work is done, and the car goes to the paint shop, where the master painter matches the factory paint with exact precision. The car is then reassembled and moved to the final stage of buffing and detailing. The whole process, according to Hazelton, highlights the quality that the technicians put into their body work. “Our technicians go the extra mile!” he shares. “We’ve taken off bumpers and seen damage that was left behind from other shops that didn’t spend the time to make it right. Our guys will sit there for literally hours to get it right, not even getting paid! It is the challenge for them. It is amazing to see the stuff that they do.”

Coombs agrees with Hazelton’s assessment, adding, “We are not a production shop focused Continued on page 17

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You can catch Sam Mahdavi cohosting the number 1 diagnostics radio show on air, nationally syndicated on Samsgarage.com every Saturday morning between 9-11 and locally on A.M. 920 WGKA between 11a.m.-12p.m.

Check out the trailer for movie “Let’s Be Cops”… we have a car and staff member in the film.

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

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

— An EndResultz Company

678.773.0380

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers ryan@endresultz.com

Valid/for/new/clients/signing/!xyear/contract8 Coupon/must/be/presented/when/contract/is/signed8 Not/valid/with/other/offers/or/prior/services8/ Offer/expires/84!4!48

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Projects $3,000+

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Feature Writer Stacye Carroll Contributing Writers Jane Bishop Rachael Brice Heidi Campbell Stacye Carroll Kelly Farris Jolee McManus Julie Mills-Watson Dr. Stacy Stacy Pam Walker

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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

CALENDAR LINK

We have moved our calendar online!

Send us your events to info@endresultz.com Go to www.ourtownmag.org/events to view upcoming events, fundraisers, shows and more!

IN THIS ISSUE

Private Golf, Tennis, Swimming & Dining Family, Individual and Corporate Memberships Available

Summit Chase Country Club

3197 Classic Drive, Snellville, GA 30078 770 979-9000 summitchasecc.com PAGE 6

u 18 Hole Championship Golf Course u 12 Lighted Tennis Courts u 2 Swimming Pools u Restaurant & Lounge u Wedding Receptions u Meeting Space & Banquets u Corporate Golf Outings u Professional Golf, Tennis and Swim Instruction For All Ages

5 7 9 10 11 12 13 14 16 17 18 20 21

On the Cover: Sports & Imports Collision, Inc. From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion Community Member Spotlight: Bryan Shepard From My Vantage Point: The Lilburn Farmer’s Market Photo of the Month: Summer Vacation Live4ward: It is My Choice The Pitfalls of Fitness Trends Do Summer Storms Wreak Havoc With Your Dog? The Makings of a Parkview Football Coach Service, Selection, and Community: Smoke Rise Bottle Shoppe We are Free to Make Healthy Choices!

Kenya Conserved Positive Athlete Georgia Stay Connected! ourtownmag.org Read Online: ourtownmagonline.com ourtowngwinnett

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

@ourtowngwinnett

endresultzinc

Our Town

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion @ryansauers

It seems only a short time ago we were complaining about the ice and snow, and here we are in July talking about how hot and humid it is. Wow, does time ever go fast. I hope that you are enjoying your summer. As I write this article, the World Cup is taking place. It is wonderful to watch the United States come together (soccer fan and non-soccer fan alike) and support the national team. This type of unity reminds me of this great community we live in. I feel blessed to live, worship, work, and play in such a great community.

This month’s cover story is on Sports and Imports Collision Inc. They have repaired two cars which I have seen firsthand (before/after), and I can tell you their work is amazing. They work on all types of vehicles, have several locations, and are a professional and authentic company.

Thanks for the feedback from calls and emails from loyal readers each month. Also, it is incredible how many readers have become involved in the magazine as an advertiser or in another capacity.

In addition, I want to thank our tremendous advertisers. And, Our Town community, I ask that you PLEASE support these advertisers. I will continue to remind you that without them… there is no Our Town Magazine. Therefore, if you enjoy this magazine, I ask you to individually do your part to support and patronize them.

You can now find Our Town Magazine in four Chick-fil-A restaurant locations because they love our family and community message. The four locations are: Highway 78- Stone Mountain, Highway 78- Snellville, Scenic Highway 124, and Lawrenceville Highway in Lilburn. In addition, we have 6 new display racks that will be positioned in strategic locations (locations to come).

Thanks for your continued support, and please stay connected with us online throughout the month for information that goes beyond the printed version. You can find us at Facebook.com/ OurTownGwinnett and Twitter @OurTownGwinnett, or you can view our online version at ourtownmagonline.com.

Our goal is to give you content when, how, and the way you choose to consume it. Have a great month, and until next time and as always: this is my town, the town, your town, Our Town!

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PAGE 7

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Our Town

Community Member Spotlight:

Body Flo

Bryan Shepard

Private and Group

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Reformer, Mat, Barr

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When Bryan Shepard was sixteen years old, he started his first job at the Chick-fil-A in North Dekalb Mall. There’s no way he could have known at the time how that decision would shape the rest of his life.

It was there he met his wife, Stacy. Just a short time later, at the age of twenty-five, Bryan bought his first Chick-fil-A location near Phipps Plaza. In 2003, when the opportunity arose to purchase a location in Snellville, Bryan jumped at the chance. He and his wife had already decided that the area was ideal for raising a family, and their new home would now be just minutes from Bryan’s new store.

Under his management sales soared, earning Bryan Chick-fil-A’s highest honor, the Symbol of Success Award. In 2007, Bryan and several staff members brought their talents to the Lilburn location on Lawrenceville Highway, and Bryan says he plans to stay put.

The two things Bryan enjoys most about his involvement with Chick-fil-A are the opportunities to shape the lives of young people and to be involved in the community. To that end, Chick-fil-A Lilburn partners with about fifteen schools and athletic clubs by providing fundraising activities such as spirit night and weekly lunches. On the first Thursday of every month Lilburn families are treated to a dessert bar during Family Night, and Daddy/Daughter date night continues to be a very popular event.

Bryan enjoys sharing the Chick-fil-A story at local career nights, and, in 2012, served as Grand Marshal in the Lilburn Christmas Parade. Bryan was greatly inspired by Chick-fil-A founder, Truett Cathy who was known to say, “If you love what you do, you never have to work another day of your life.”

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PAGE 9

From My Vantage Point:

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Each year as summer rolls around, colorful tents spring up in streets throughout cities, shading farmers and vendors from the heat as they sell their varied products. Customers know these events are a fun alternative to grocery store produce shopping. They can stroll past the many booths, peruse the unique products, and talk to farmers who bring their produce from farm to booth.

Yet what many may not realize is that today’s farmers’ markets offer a community more than just produce.

These events have become an enjoyable community gathering spot.

My mom, Mandy McManus, and her friend, Andrea Brannan, started the Lilburn Farmers’ Market four years ago and have recently started their fifth season at Good Shepherd Presbyterian Church at 1400 Killian Hill Road. I have seen firsthand what goes on behind the scenes for such an event, and how it really is so much more than fruits and vegetables.

This season Mandy and Andrea have worked to benefit the Lilburn community with attractions they never imagined possible four years ago. It truly has something for everyone. A free book giveaway, a chef demo, music accompaniment, and even a blood drive were all featured on the first night alone. Interesting events planned include visitations from groups such as the YMCA, Girl Scout troops, the Lilburn Woman’s Club, and the Atlanta Obedience Dog Club.

Farmers’ markets like Lilburn’s exist in Snellville, Tucker, Grayson, and Lawrenceville, making it possible for many to experience what markets have to offer. In the words of my mother, “Farmers’ markets are a great opportunity for non-profits and other charitable organizations to showcase their missions while providing a fun way for neighbors and friends to gather and enjoy the summer bounty.

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Our Town

Photo of the Month

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We are looking to feature another summer vacation photo in our upcoming issue. If you want to share your August photo, send an email to info@endresultz.com. Include a description that includes the who, when and where you spent your vacation.

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PAGE 11

Come to the Park Watch the Game

Enjoy the Food

My Choice

By Jane Bishop It was Tuesday. Outdoor conditions were good for another step in my preparation for the 10K Peachtree Road Race on July 4. The temperature was mild. Humidity was high. I “geared up” for the outdoor run: water bottle belt, loose clothing, energy gel, and stop watch. As I took the first step, I pressed start on my stopwatch. At two miles, my pace and breathing were labored. I began to question if I would go the full distance. I chose to use some of my “keep going self-talk” techniques: “I can do this. A few more steps. Breathe deeply. I can do this!” At several points along the route, I could have quit, stopped, or turned back. But my choice was to keep going!

It was my choice to keep putting one foot in front of the other. It was my choice to continue, though my muscles were tiring. It was my choice to go the distance! Napoleon Hill said, “Effort only fully releases its reward after a person refuses to quit.” Had my choice been to quit, I would have missed the reward, physically and emotionally, of accomplishing the goal! I would have missed the sights and sounds along the way. I would have missed the great release of endorphins.

I would have missed experiencing the reward of refusing to quit!

Choice! A powerful life skill we all possess and often underestimate. We make choices each day, consciously and subconsciously. The choices we make shape a moment, a day, a ministry, a job, a relationship. How will you use this life skill today?

What reward will you experience by refusing to quit? It’s your choice! Live4ward today.

Jane Bishop is Owner/CEO of Take The Next Step. More information at www.takethenextstepcct.com.

Who we are: We are a not-for-profit physical therapy clinic affiliated with the Mercer University Department of Physical Therapy.

Our clinicians have extensive backgrounds, experience, training, and certifications.

What we offer:

Dr. Bethany Nelson, PT, DPT Vestibular Specialist 3001 Mercer University Drive Davis Building, Suite 106 Atlanta, Georgia 30341 Phone: 678-547-6439 Email: Clapp_DA@mercer.edu

PAGE 12

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We utilize a detailed, patient-centered, problem solving approach using the latest evidence.

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The unique blend of clinical and academic environments provides consumers with the most current treatments available. Many patients with complex problems have had success with us after multiple attempts with other therapies.

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

Our Town

BUILDING A LIFELONG LOVE OF LEARNING STARTS WITH A GOOD FOUNDATION.

The Pitfalls of Fitness Trends

INSPIRING 21 ST CENTURY LEARNERS

By Kelly Farris TV and movie screens shout about fitness trends, promising major results for minimal effort.

In my twenty-five years as a fitness professional, I have heard all of these promises, and they still bother me.

The claim that any one workout will alter your body type is bogus. You are born with your body type. No class is going to change your endomorph body into a ballerina ectomorph body. If you have curves at your ideal body weight, then you will always have them. Take note of IDEAL body weight. Be the best and healthiest version of YOU. These workout classes are not without benefit. Any activity is preferable to zero activity, provided you are not causing injury. If you are having fun, go for it! Avoid attaching your goals and sense of success to these marketing claims and remember that more is not always better.

Now Over forty? Avoid high repetition workouts, as they cause over-use injuries. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a FUNCTIONAL workout based on four primal movement patterns: pushEnrolling ing, pulling, lunging, squatting. These make you stronger in your day-to-day activities.

“In order to thrive in today’s world, children Fall need to be equipped with 21stfor century skills.

There is a distinct lack of balance in the high volume single exercises that the internet offers.

The Partnership for 21st Century Skills focus on

By BALANCE I am referring to muscular balance. Doing 300 crunches a day for a month applauds that The Goddard School’s 2014 developing these skills early so that students can be successful in and out of school.” works your abs but ignores your back muscles is inadvisable.

The best advice I can offer is to vary your workouts. Cross train. Do not ever stop. Make fitness a lifestyle. Hire an accredited, certified, professional fitness trainer to design a program for you.

FUNCTIONAL. BALANCED. VARIED. SUSTAINABLE. Notice I didn’t say easy. That’s why it’s called WORKING out.

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Do Summer Storms Wreak Havoc With Your Dog?

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If your canine friend has phobias, it means he or she experiences an irrational and disproportionate response to certain stimuli. Some stimuli can be avoided in a dog’s life; unfortunately, bad weather, such as thunderstorms, is not one of them. Veterinarians call it storm phobia. Pet owners call it their worst nightmare. Some reactions are more unsettling than others, but regardless, it is difficult knowing that your pet is feeling terrified and not knowing how to help. In most cases a dog›s adverse reaction to storms tends to worsen as he or she gets older. Symptoms can include pacing, panting, drooling, trembling, inappropriate potty habits, and in more extreme cases, destruction and self-harm.

Here are a few tips to help your pooch, and you, deal with stormy weather: Make a “safe room” - This is a place your dog can escape to when a storm is approaching, and that is available at all times, especially when you’re not home. The room would ideally have no windows, or covered windows so the storm can’t be seen. Placing an open crate in the room can also be helpful.

Counter-conditioning - The idea is to pair something that your dog absolutely loves with the thing that he or she is afraid of. When your dog senses a storm approaching and starts to show mild signs of anxiety, make his or her favorite treats fall from the sky, or take out a favorite toy for a fun game of play. If your dog is food motivated, this is a good time to have something he or she is sure to go bonkers over (high value reward). If you can keep the focus on the treats or toys as the sounds get louder, and give rewards just after a loud thunder boom, then the high value reward could be very beneficial.

Desensitization – Since storm phobia includes reacting to the noises from the storm, such as thunder and hard rains, many canine behaviorists use therapy techniques when the weather is calm and a storm is not in the forecast. The most popular and most written about is the use of CDs with the sounds of thunderstorms. As the CD is played and the dog’s response remains calm, the pet is rewarded with a treat.

Using calming behavior and sounds/music – It is important to remember that the best way to react to your dog’s over-reaction or disproportionate response to the storm is not to react. Remain calm and above all do not use a loud voice to distract your dog. Soothing and reassuring tones are best. There is a popular CD that has reportedly helped many dogs who suffer from storm or noise phobia called Through a Dog’s Ear. Playing any soft music could be of benefit as well.

Talk to your veterinarian – As always, it is important to let your veterinarian know of your dog’s symptoms so that together you can come up with a plan. If your dog’s symptoms become severe or in any way threatening to his/her health – psychologically and/or medically – then several options may be considered, such as medication, consulting with a behaviorist, etc.

People with thunder-phobic dogs know that this is no small problem. It doesn’t go away by itself, and left untreated, it only seems to get worse with age. At least 20-25% of all dogs suffer to some degree with this phobia, so fortunately many resources, articles, and helpful treatment therapies have become more readily available.

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The naming of Eric Godfree as head football coach at Parkview High School has excited fans about the coming season. Our Town set out to learn a little more about the man behind the buzz.

What is your favorite memory of being a player at Parkview?

In my junior season we played Clarke Central in the playoffs. I remember that atmosphere and wanting to be in that atmosphere all the time.

What has changed the most about Parkview since you were here as a student?

The biggest difference now from when I was playing is the expectation of winning a state title. Now we know it’s possible. We have a chance to win every time we step on the field.

When did you first know you wanted to be a football coach?

I’ve pretty much known all my life, but it was confirmed my freshman year at Parkview.

Who has had the most influence on you?

My parents had the most influence on me as a kid. They taught me the meaning of commitment and trust and to work hard and be respectful. Coach Cecil Flowe and my college coaches had the most influence on me as a football coach by sharing the importance of hard work and preparation.

What appealed most to you about returning to Parkview to coach?

The Parkview tradition, the opportunity to play on the biggest stage in Georgia high school football, and the opportunity to compete for a state championship every year.

Describe your coaching style in one word.

Organized.

What is Parkview football’s biggest strength right now?

A great group of players and coaches who want success and who work hard.

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Our Town

Service, Selection, and Community: Top Goals for the Smoke Rise Bottle Shoppe

Mainstreet Guns & Range

By Heidi Campbell When Greg Wilson bought the store in 2006, he knew that his goals were variety and customer service. “We don’t take our customers for granted,” Wilson said. “That is not just a saying. I know if it weren’t for our customers, I wouldn’t have a job.”

While most package stores specialize exclusively in one type of offering, Smoke Rise Bottle Shoppe strives to cover the whole spectrum. They recently added thirty-four new tequilas, and, according to Wilson, “We have one of the best bourbon selections in the state. We buy so much bourbon that we drive to Kentucky, meet with the master distillers, pick out our own barrels, and have it bottled just for us.”

On top of this variety, ten to twenty new craft beers arrive each week. Aficionados learn of these arrivals through the store’s Facebook page and a monthly email newsletter. These enthusiasts come in to purchase new craft beers as soon as they hit the shelves.

Wilson admits that it is a lot of work staying abreast of the latest craft beers, which now outsell the big-brand domestics. Wilson and his staff read craft beer magazines, and participate in quarterly “research and design” trips to the Brick Store Pub in Decatur, which, according to Wilson, is one of the top craft beer pubs in the nation.

Wilson believes that businesses should give back to their community. His store actively participates in nearly thirty-five charity events every year. They support the football programs of both Parkview and Brookwood high schools, as well as the Parkview booster clubs for football, track and field, baseball, and cross-country. They’ve done countless golf tournaments for various charities, including autism, Parkinson’s disease, Dogs for Disabled Veterans, and Wounded Warriors.

“One of my favorite community programs,” said Wilson, “is the Racket Rally Day for the Tucker High School special education class. The Smoke Rise Country Club provides them lunch and a tennis instructor each year. Our store buys the kids their yearly t-shirts. They look forward to it. They love the t-shirts. We’ve been doing this for eight years now. I just enjoy doing things like that.”

The shop is dedicated to its customers and the community as a whole. They collaborate with other local businesses, including Three Blind Mice and Rivals on Five. “We are one big network,” Wilson said. “We all use the same customer base, and those customers want us to be a happy community. We strive to work together.”

Greg Wilson is the owner of Smoke Rise Bottle Shop, located at 1559 Lilburn-Stone Mountain Road in Stone Mountain. More information at www.smokerisebottle.com

Sports & Imports Collision, Inc. Continued from page 5 on more in and more out. Our technicians focus on the quality of each individual car. Our end product is always a step above because of attention to detail.”

For the past eighteen years, Sports & Imports has contributed to a golf tournament sponsoring families for the Ronald McDonald House charity. As members of the National Auto Body Council, they also donate their time and talent repairing damaged cars for “Family Promise” and “Families in Need of a Vehicle.” Coombs recalls being particularly touched after meeting the recipients of a recent car donation. “They had a daughter with cerebral palsy,” Coombs recalls, “and only one parent was employed. They used taxis to get to the doctor, and the medical bills were accumulating faster than they could put food on the table. Even though our part was small, it felt good to help them. Reliable transportation is so important.”

While Sports & Imports is known for repairing highline vehicles, they work on all makes and models. Coombs explains, “A Honda owner should receive the same repair as a Mercedes owner.

The safety of the occupant is the most important thing. We give the same quality to a highline car as a non-highline car.”

Their top-notch training and impeccable service ensure customers that their cars – their “babies” – are in extremely capable hands. Coombs wants the entire experience at Sports & Imports Collision to be positive. She says, “It is so gratifying to help the customer turn a bad situation into a good situation.”

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PAGE 17

We are Free to Make Healthy Choices!

By Julie Mills-Watson, CMT, LLCC If you have ever traveled abroad, one thing you notice upon returning home are all the choices we have in our great country!

From clothes to cars, to food to our overall health, we are so blessed.

We are also drowning in data. Do you feel like everyone in the world wants a part of your time, money, and attention? In this month’s article, let’s refocus our attention on a couple of health issues that can really make or break our long-term health.

As we age, it’s very important that we engage in resistance training. Maintaining our upper body strength will help prevent bone loss, maintain good posture, and prevent pulls and sprains.

“Resistance” comes in many forms, and resistance bands are a good, safe way to build strength and increase stamina.

The second most neglected area is stretching. Over time our muscles draw up without regular stretching and use. The percentage of Americans that suffer from joint and back pain is on the rise.

However, with a regular stretching routine, we can experience fewer pulled muscles, less joint pain and inflammation, and a better quality of life.

You can do simple stretches in bed by drawing your knees to your chest, then lowering them to one side or the other. Go online to find simple, safe stretches that you can incorporate into your daily routine.

I can’t think of two better things for your health than remaining strong and flexible as long as you can. Make strengthening and stretching a part of your health program so you can run with, and pick up those kids and grandkids for a long time.

Julie Mills-Watson, CMT, LLCC, is founder and owner of Body of Health. More information at www.bodyofhealthandlife.com

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Building a Healthier Community, One Patient at a Time Dr. Vera Reaves is a board certified primary care physician who has been serving the Tucker and Stone Mountain area for over 17 years. She focuses on preventive care for her patients, aiming to provide a healthier overall lifestyle for each person she treats. Some of the conditions treated and services offered are: * Annual Physicals * Well Woman’s Exams * Anxiety & Depression * Weight Management

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PAGE 19

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Kenya Conserved

By Pam Walker I have been to Kenya several times.

However it has been a good ten years since I visited last because I found that the safari operators in Kenya had lost their way and started making a Disney attraction out of what is a spectacular country.

Since then, I had been looking for Karen Blixen’s proverbial “Out Of Africa” experience. I heard about private groups of Kenyans purchasing large swaths of land throughout the country to preserve the animals and to keep the country pristine.

Invited by Kicheche Camps to see the conservancies, the day I arrived in the Likipia Conservancy, I saw most of the “big five” wildlife: elephants, lions, Cape buffalo, and rhinoceros; all roamed freely across this giant fenced wilderness.

Kicheche Camps is not like your average tent in the woods. These tented camps have proper bathrooms with running water. Camps are solar-powered which lasts only so long in the cool dark evenings- forget about bringing a hair dryer. What could be better than sitting by the fire, hearing the lions roar in the distance and then sitting down to a gourmet feast in the main tent, all by candlelight?

Up a 5:30 a.m. with a cup of coffee and cookies brought to the tent was our wake up call, and we were off at 6 a.m. for our daily game drives. Gone is the old Kenya, where 25 safari vehicles crowd around one pride of lions. Only two vehicles are allowed together at any one time in the Conservancies.

People are afraid to travel to Kenya after hearing about terrorists and mall bombings, but the Conservancies of Kenya couldn’t be more peaceful and wonderful.

Thank you Kicheche Camps for educating us all!

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Our Town

Positive Athlete Georgia

By Rachael Brice “Work hard, Play positive.” This is the main idea behind Positive Athlete Georgia. Founded four years ago in Pittsburgh by President and CEO Scott Pederson and former Georgia Bulldog and Super Bowl MVP Hines Ward, Positive Athlete Georgia (PAG) continues to make a difference in the lives of our high school athletes all across metro Atlanta.

PAG was such a success in Pittsburgh that Pederson and Ward decided to integrate the program into Georgia high schools this year. The organization’s mission is to promote the benefits of “positivity” to young athletes, to shape their future by teaching them life skills beyond athletics, and to demonstrate the importance of giving back to their community.

“We hope this program focuses the spotlight on how important a positive attitude is not only in sports, but in life as well,” Ward said. “Positivity is a life skill that will help any young person deal with relationships, obstacles, and opportunities.”

Students who projected a positive attitude both on and off the field and who were dedicated to giving back to their community were nominated.

The organization was hoping for 100 to 150 nominations, but was blown away when they received over 600. PAG narrows that down to twenty-six athletes who are recognized at the Positive Athlete Awards Ceremony.

PAG looks for students who have unique stories, who give back to their community, or have overcome some obstacle. The selected students must also be servant leaders, think more of the team than they do of themselves, and be able to admit their imperfections.

“We are Positive Athlete, not Perfect Athlete,” Pederson said. “We want these kids to grow up and know they don’t have to be the greatest athlete, but they can still be rewarded and celebrated.”

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