JULY 2019 (BLUE) Our Town Monthly Magazine for Gwinnett/NE DeKalb

JULY 2019 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

Up Close with Metro Cafe Diner, see story on page 5

8 10 13 17

Meet Pastor Keith Savage & Mountain Park Baptist Making a Difference: Cutting Edge Painting Community Spotlight: Washington Farms Says Farewell Getting Schooled: Recess for All at Arcado Elementary

#EquipToThrive “Dr.

Providence is equipping students to lead, serve, and embrace faithisin proud Christ while providing top-tier competitive Simmons to offer Botox and academics, Dermal Fillers.

Call sports, award-winning fine arts, and a nationally-recognized STEM program.

Come and see how we prepare the next generation to be hard-working, articulate and gracious young people who live out their faith and thrive in an ever-changing world.

tourprovidence.org

the office to schedule your consulta

2018

WINNER

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

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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,

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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 770-985-2437Office • smilesbysimmons.com Wednesday 7:00am - 6:00pm Thursday 7:00am - 2:

Dr. John W. Simmons, IV

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Our Town Gwinnett

LOST

144

POUNDS With the only bariatric center in Northeast Georgia that’s nationally-accredited for adolescents and adults, the Center for Weight Management has a proven record of helping patients achieve lasting weight loss.

From comprehensive non-surgical programs to the latest bariatric surgery options, our patient-centered approach ensures you get the individualized care and support you need. That means an entire team of multidisciplinary experts working together to accomplish one thing—improving your physical, mental and emotional health for years to come.

Mindy 4 years post-op

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PAGE 3

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Go to menu, then events—we might be at a library near you!

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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.

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Our Town Gwinnett

On the Cover: Fine Dining with Even Better Service

By Kristen Eleveld Are you looking for excellent service, food that is always good, and an atmosphere that can’t be beat? Your search is over! Metro Café Diner in Stone Mountain has all of that to offer and more.

Founded in 2006, the Metro Café Diner has spent the last decade making a name for itself, both in the Gwinnett area and at its sister location in downtown Atlanta, which opened in 2007.

Muzo Saritas, who owns and founded the diner, dreamed of a place where guests could have a lot of options for every meal in an environment that fostered good conversation over excellent food.

“We serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day,” said Muzo. “Whether you’re coming home from work in the evening or just starting your shift at dinnertime, we have all the options you want.”

Muzo is no stranger to the restaurant business, having worked in the industry since 1988. And he places a high priority on giving guests an experience that goes above and beyond with every visit.

To that end, they recently completed a renovation of their Stone Mountain restaurant location. The diner is quickly becoming popular for its new, fresh look, complete with authentic Italian tiles and a mouth-watering cake display in the center of the dining room.

What is the Metro Café Diner’s secret to so much success? According to Muzo, the answer is simple: His team members love their jobs, and they do them well. Several have been part of the diner since it opened in 2006, and every member of his staff works hard to make guests want to return to dine with them again.

“The team really shows ownership of the restaurant,” Muzo said. “They run the restaurant so well, I feel like I can be a guest there, too.”

If you go to Metro Café Diner, you can not only expect to be dazzled by the fresh look and delicious meals, but you will find that the staff takes a genuine interest in you – and, of course, your order.

“Guests feel at home here,” said Muzo. “Many of our staff know the guests by name, and they even know their regular orders. Guests can tell that they will have a good meal as soon as they walk in the door.”

“Customers are not customers to us – they are guests,” added Ashley Lirette, who has been part of the Metro Café Diner team from the beginning. “We always want to give them a great experience that leaves them feeling like they are a part of the family.”

Families are another priority for the Metro Café Diner – they even have the Easter Bunny visit every spring, which is a fun experience for the guests and staff alike. Along with being a major sponsor for all of Parkview High School’s sports programs, they are constantly looking for new ways to reach out to their community and invite them to a great dining experience.

So if you’re looking for wonderful food, dozens of menu options, and quality customer service, make sure to stop by Metro Café Diner – that’s all they know how to offer.

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

Celebrating 20+ Years Of Making Smiles Blossom!

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Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

ister Now g e R

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultZ.com

— 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 2019 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Cover Photographer Marcie Reif Photography

770-923-2447

www.majortkd.com 4068 Five Forks Trickum Road Lilburn, Ga 30047

Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Pearl Aidoo Heidi Campbell K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Kim Hill Ron Lambros Amy Ney Traci Sanders Beth Volpert Johansen Contributing Writers Tanisha Turner Pam Walker

Stay Connected!

OurTownGwinnett.com

Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett Join the Our Town Community Forum:

www.Facebook.com/groups/ OurTownGwinnettCommunityForum

IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: Fine Dining with Even Better Service

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7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 8 One Church + One Community = Big Changes 10 On the Cutting Edge of Community 11 Don’t Miss a Day: How to Make the Most Out of Your Summer 12 Learning Lessons: Making the Most of Story Time for Children 13 Photo of the Month: Camp Creek Elementary Students Visit State

Capitol

13 Washington Farms Says Farewell 15 One on One with Turning Sun School: Bringing Italian-based

Approach to Gwinnett

17 Getting Schooled: Recess for All at Arcado Elementary 20 Travel Tales: Croatia, Land of Wine, and Ferry Rides

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American Heritage Animal Hospital

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

@RyanTSauers

I hope everyone is having a great summer. Enjoy this time and 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 “grow” yet another year older this month, and my three daughters are at three different schools in the fall. My oldest daughter, Kelsey, will be a sophomore at Georgia Tech; my middle daughter, McKenna, will be a junior in high school; and my youngest daughter Brooke will be a 7th grader in middle school. It seems like yesterday my wife and I used to be the youngest (and with little kids) in our neighborhood. No more. Time keeps a rolling...

In work I was recently doing for my doctoral studies in leadership, we were asked to pick a song that resonated with us the most. I chose Kenny Chesney’s Don’t Blink. It encompasses all the things I am trying to articulate in this column. If you have never heard it before, I encourage you to check it out.

I urge each of you to Keep Pushing Forward (KPF) no matter what you are facing in life. Please 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. I challenge you to take the high road in dealing with others.

Let’s face it. Some people just like to push our buttons and can be a pain to deal with. However, true leadership means we do not stoop to another person’s level and instead we take the high road.

We operate with integrity. It is difficult at times, but I promise you will be glad you did.

I wish you a safe July. Stay cool and enjoy each moment. As Kenny Chesney says in the Don’t Blink song, “Cause when your hourglass runs out of sand... you can’t flip it over and start again... take every breath God gives you for what it’s worth.”

We have some great things happening, so stay tuned. Also, check out our updated website OurTownGwinnett.com, designed to make things easier for everyone.

Have a blessed month Our Town community. And as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

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One Church + One Community = Big Changes

By Kristen Eleveld When it comes to loving on and engaging with their community, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a group that has a bigger heart than Mountain Park Baptist Church (MPFBC).

Located in Stone Mountain, MPFBC has a simple but powerful vision: To be gospel-centered people who live in community and on mission to make disciples. They have made it their mission to reach out and share the Gospel to all 170,000 people living within a 5-mile radius every chance they get.

Leading the charge is their team of talented staff members, with Senior Pastor Keith Savage guiding the church on the best ways to reach those around them. As they share the Gospel with their community, their main focus is to keep pointing back to the reason they do it all: Jesus.

“I have a lot that excites me and gets me up every day,” Pastor Keith said. “I get to lead a staff at Mountain Park who want to reach this community and impact the world in the time the Lord has given us.”

Starting at the age of 21 when he first felt called to be a pastor, Pastor Keith has long been dedicated to sharing the Gospel. Since then, he and his family have become an integral part of the MPFBC and local neighborhoods.

“I get to spend time learning and growing as a Christian, a pastor, a husband, and a dad,” Keith said of the many roles he juggles each day. “I also get to spend time with leaders, to pour into them and have them pour into me.”

It is no wonder that Mountain Park First Baptist Church has been so well-received in the local community. Pastor Keith has encouraged both his team and the neighborhoods around the church to take opportunities to share their faith and invite friends and neighbors to church with them.

More than anything, he hopes to impart what he considers one of the most valuable lessons in his own life: “When life gets tough, push through. Lean on your faith in Christ and He will carry you through.”

Mountain Park First Baptist Church is jumping into its communities – and it’s bringing good Continued on page 21

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We all have that one room in our house that we are dying to update. Maybe the color you chose was fun twenty years ago, but is a little too neon now. Or maybe sunlight has not been kind to your kitchen cabinets, which have now faded into two distinct colors. You know you want a change, but how do you get started? There are hundreds of local businesses who all claim to be the best – but which company actually is the best? How do you even know what you need?

All these questions have one very simple answer: Cutting Edge Painting.

Founded in 2014, Cutting Edge Painting is now embarking on its fifth year of providing muchneeded services to its community. You’ll find them working all throughout Gwinnett County, and maybe even a little beyond, as this company works to offer its expertise to more Georgians.

And don’t let the name fool you. While Cutting Edge Painting is certainly the best of the best when it comes to giving your walls a makeover, they also offer a wide range of services that make all your home improvement dreams a reality. Whether you’re looking to have new gutters installed, your cabinets refinished, or some serious pressure washing to be done, you have found everything you need and more through Cutting Edge Painting.

“We strive to be the company that has the coverage you need for every type of project,” said Nathan McMichael, who now owns Cutting Edge Painting and has been with the company since 2016.

One such project is their highly sought-after Concrete Coatings service. For those clients who need a more durable concrete floor that still creates a nice aesthetic for their customers, Cutting Edge Painting is offering high-quality finishes that are built to last. Whether it’s a garage floor at a mechanic’s shop, basement floors in the home, or gleaming showrooms filled with new cars, any concrete floor service can be finished in a variety of ways that will enhance any home or business.

For Nathan, the job isn’t about the bottom line of the budget. What takes priority in every project is the customer experience and satisfaction. It’s not enough to offer top-notch professional services. Nathan and his team are committed to giving every client a notable experience, every time.

One way they accomplish this goal is through the crews they hire to handle each job. Certainly, every crew member is experienced and brings a valued skillset to the table. But even more important is the attitude that comes with them. Nathan looks for people who believe in doing a job right the first time – from the initial consultation all the way through to the last moments of the project.

“We offer a service that is easy to work with and that takes care of all the details,” said Nathan of his team members. “Hiring the right people creates the best atmosphere and experience for the client.”

Once a job is done, Nathan asks if every client would be willing to leave some feedback about their experience with Cutting Edge Painting. This allows them to not only pass on valuable feedback to their crew members, but also to build on their already sterling reputation within the community.

“It’s not another job, or another paycheck – it’s another relationship,” said Nathan of each new customer he meets.

It seems that community is another high priority for Cutting Edge Painting. This year, they will partner with a group in Clarkston called Peace of Thread – a non-profit group that teaches valuable job skills to women who have sought refuge in the United States. Cutting Edge Painting has offered their services and expertise to give the Peace of Thread office building some fresh paint and new gutters. These details and more will take care of some much-needed updates around the building, which, in turn, allows those running the non-profit to focus on serving the refugees in their care.

This isn’t the first time Cutting Edge Painting has teamed up with the community, and it certainly won’t be the last. Nathan says his company’s goal is always to find a way to better their neighborhood and help those in need, however they can.

“We want to give back!” he said. “We want to make our community even better.”

If you’re feeling inspired to learn more about this amazing company, you don’t have to go far.

Cutting Edge Painting is located in Grayson, and Nathan welcomes the opportunity to answer questions from his community about what it is they do – and what makes their service so great. So if the color of your bathroom walls is really driving you crazy, you know what to do! Reach out to Cutting Edge Painting today.

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Our Town Gwinnett

Don’t Miss a Day: How to Make the Most Out of Your Summer

By Kristen Eleveld It’s already July, and the beginning of the school year looms closer and closer. But don’t worry – there are still plenty of great ways to enjoy the rest of your summer days, and they are right in your community. Whether you’re looking for new ideas or want to enjoy some old favorites, your summer fun is far from over.

Beat the Heat No one loves standing outside in the hot sun, especially when your kids are looking for something new and fun to do.

But add some water and swimsuits to this equation, and suddenly you have a summer day that can’t be beat! Fortunately, Gwinnett County is home to five free splash pads that you and your family can enjoy all day long.

If you live closer to the Duluth area, consider heading over to Main Street to enjoy the Duluth Town Green Fountain. If you plan to be in the Mall of Georgia area, why not check out the fountains there after you finish your shopping? Every Gwinnett splash pad allows kids of all ages and abilities to enjoy the water in a safe and exciting way. For an extra treat, bring along a cooler with some popsicles and water bottles to pass out to everyone when they need a break.

Hit the Books Did you know that there are over a dozen libraries in Gwinnett County? More importantly, did you know that signing up for a library card is totally free for all Gwinnett County residents? Grab your family and take them with you to sign everyone up for library cards, and then stay for a while to find some books that suit your fancy. These libraries have selections for kids of all ages, ranging from toddlers to teens, and everything in between. Staff members there can show you how to find exactly what you or your child needs, so don’t be afraid to ask questions!

Bonus: Many Gwinnett libraries have special story times or activities that are designed for specific ages, and will give your child the chance to experience a new story or to create one of their own.

What could be better on a rainy summer day than diving into a new adventure at the library?

Head to www.gwinnettpl.org to learn more about the libraries closest to you and to find out which activities you want to sign up for first.

Continued on page 12

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PAGE 11

Don’t Miss a Day Continued from page 11 Learn from the Past If you’re in a mood to explore a cool and quiet place while also learning some new facts, bring your family to the Lawrenceville Female Seminary and Gwinnett History Museum. This building houses several exhibits featuring the history of Gwinnett County and how it has grown from its earliest days to become the home we all know and love. It’s open Monday through Saturday, so you can visit throughout the week! Give them a call at (770) 822-5178 to find everything you need for your visit.

Or, if you want a little more outdoor adventure, try The Plantation Houses of Gwinnett selfguided tour. You will have the opportunity to see houses and buildings that have been standing since the 1800s, like the Historic Courthouse and the Elisha Winn House. It’s up to you to set the pace, so take as much time as you want at each of your stops.

We want to hear from you! How are you making the most of these last weeks of summer? Head to our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/OurTownGwinnett/ to sound off on your favorite ways to enjoy these lazy days.

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By Tanisha Turner The value of reading with young children is well documented.

Beyond developing early language and literacy skills, reading increases children’s ability to understand the emotions of others – a critical life skill that leads to empathy and compassion. Parents can help support the development of these skills by being intentional with story time. In addition to making reading together a regular routine in your household, consider these age-specific tips and book recommendations to make the most of story time during the first five years of your child’s life.

Before Birth: During pregnancy, reading establishes voice recognition and promotes cognitive development in babies. The rhythm and melody of voices serve as the prenatal foundation for language.

Choose rhythmic stories with cadence, warm tones or repetition – repetition leads to recognition! Primrose suggests: How Do I Love You? by Marion Dane Bauer, or Chicka Chicka Boom Boom by Bill Martin Jr. Birth – Age 1: Reading books should be a favorite bedtime activity at this age. With daily “tuck-in” stories and snuggling together at bedtime, infants begin to associate reading with comfort, warmth, and security. Sturdy board books with bright illustrations are easiest to handle and invite participation. Books with familiar subjects, such as babies and animals, resonate since babies respond to faces and eyes before other stimuli. Primrose suggests: Peek-a Who? by Nina Laden, or Counting Kisses by Karen Katz.

Ages 1 – 3: Reading a wide variety of stories helps toddlers build vocabulary and understand story sequencing. A sequence of events that is both interesting and understandable helps children identify with a book. Ask lots of questions, act silly, and try out different character voices to make reading dramatic and engaging. Vivid illustrations, along with rhyming and repetitive text, will encourage lively dialogue. Primrose suggests: Book! by Kristine O’Connell George, or From Head to Toe by Eric Carle.

Ages 4 – 5: Preschoolers should be encouraged to discover the magic of books for themselves.

Continued on page 16

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Washington Farms Says Farewell

By Traci Sanders Washington Farms strawberries have been a staple in many homes throughout Gwinnett and surrounding counties for twenty-six years. Owners John and Donna Washington opened their first farm in 1993, allowing the creation of fond memories and treasured friendships over the years.

John graduated from the University of Georgia in 1979, majoring in forestry, thinking he’d chosen a secure field of work. But interest rates skyrocketed to 19% in 1980, causing a lack of home building, so John’s job disappeared. He worked as a registered Investment Advisor for a few years until he says God called him and Donna to Eagle Boys Ranch as house parents. When their time at the ranch ended, John knew he never wanted to go back to the corporate lifestyle. He simply wanted to keep playing in the dirt for the rest of his life.

As John tells it, “Back in 1992, I approached my friend Coleman Whitehead about buying some land to grow strawberries on and he asked me, ‘What if no one comes to pick them?

No one’s ever done that before around here!’ Well, we planted, God blessed, the strawberries grew, and the people came! Now, twenty-six years later, we are thankful we planted that first crop!”

Washington Farms quickly became a family affair with Donna and the children helping out in whatever capacity they could. John says there would be no farms without Donna, who has been instrumental in numerous ways to make both locations a success.

Of course, due to the growth and increased popularity of the farms, the Washingtons hired several part-time employees to get through the busy seasons.

Large, juicy berries aren’t the only image that comes to mind when one sees the name Washington Farms. A host of fun fall activities are offered in addition to berry picking. The corn maze, pumpkin patch, corn box, petting zoo, pig races, and local treats are just a few of the additional features that attract families from all over Georgia. For those who are simply looking for local high-quality berries, without all the attractions, the Loganville patch serves as a great option.

However, all good things must come to an end at some point. John and Donna have decided to simplify and close this chapter of their lives. Even though 2019 will be the last growing season for both strawberry fields, the other festivities will continue, which will come as bittersweet news for a lot of families!

When asked what legacy John and Donna hope to leave behind with the memory of their Continued on page 16

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One on One with Turning Sun School: Bringing Italian-based Approach to Gwinnett

By Kim Hill In 2012, a group of educators, inspired by an educational philosophy developed in Reggio Emilia, Italy, came together to form Turning Sun School, a facility for children aged six months to five years. The first campus was located in the North Druid Hills area, and a second campus opened the following year in East Lake. This year a third school opened in Tucker, and Heather Adams, a Turning Sun teacher from its inception, is excited to be opening a Gwinnett campus in Lawrenceville for the coming school year. Having moved to Gwinnett from Decatur last summer with her husband and four children, she says she was unable to find the type of experience for her toddler that her older children had had.

The school’s approach is project-based, play-based, and child-centered. Ms. Adams says teachers are trained in observation and spend the- early weekscheck of school to know and understand ATTENTION Double adgetting for content.

ATTENTION Double check adALL for ALL content. each child. The curriculum emerges from those- classroom hitting all those ATTENTION - Double checkobservations. ad for ALL “We’re content.

Phone, web, address, coupons, etc. academic achievement milestones you need beforeweb, Kindergarten, but coupons, within the context of what is Phone, address, etc.

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“Who are the children, where did they come once from, who Assume nothing - Reply back that is approved Assume nothing Reply back that ad is approved once once are their families, whatALL are their experiences, what is going to excite them?”

ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY. ALLAtelier, ITEMS HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY. HAVE BEEN CHECKED FOR ACCURACY. Art activities take place inALL the ITEMS or art studio, where the children are given access to as many materials as possible. This follows the Reggio Emilia premise of a “hundred languages of children,” which refers to the many ways children may express themselves. Ms. Adams says while many expressions are mainly spoken or written, some children may use clay or another medium to express an idea or theory that they have. She admits it’s a difficult concept, but after having the opportunity to go to Italy and see the implementation in the classrooms, she says, “It clicked in a different way for me and I am excited to put a lot of energy into that here at the school.”

Continued on page 21

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Learning Lessons Continued from page 12

Washington Farms Continued from page 13

Books can help young children understand their own feelings when characters face similar life events, so pick topics they may be curious about. Also introduce new genres and topics and more complex story structures for them to explore. Primrose suggests: The Red Book by Barbara Lehman, or A Splendid Friend, Indeed by Suzanne Bloom.

Parents also can help extend children’s learning during story time by following the READ acronym, which was developed by the teacher training arm of the Atlanta Speech School – the nation’s most comprehensive center for language and literacy: • Repeat books three to five times. Discuss the story, characters, and new vocabulary in each book.

• Engage in and enjoy reading, using different voices for the characters to bring each story to life.

• Ask “why” questions, letting your child share his ideas about the story.

• Do more with the book. Reinforce the story through related activities.

strawberry farms, John said, “Our motto for twenty-six years has been: Making Memories at Washington Farms. It would be such a blessing if our customers would write us and share their personal stories and memories of good times they’ve had at our strawberry farm.” This message was posted on the Washington Farms Facebook page and already over 800 comments have been shared, with families mentioning how their children grew up picking strawberries at Washington Farms, and now those children have children of their own who enjoy this same tradition.

What’s next for the Washingtons? They are looking forward to spending more time with their children, especially their daughter who has a ministry in Uganda. Of course, they are excited about being more present for their other four children as well, “if they’ll put up with us,” John added.

One thing is for sure, the landscape of Loganville will forever be changed without the vast green vines boasting the best strawberries in town.

If you’d like to go show your love for Washington Farms and share a memory with the family, please visit their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/WashingtonFarms/ More information at https://www.washingtonfarms.net/

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Getting Schooled: Recess for All at Arcado Elementary

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By Kristen Eleveld In the fall of 2017, nine-year-old Zeph Everson noticed that one of his friends, who uses a wheelchair for mobility, was sitting at the edge of the Arcado Elementary playground during recess instead of playing with the other kids. Wondering why his friend didn’t join in the fun, Zeph asked him a few questions and learned that his friend wanted to play with the other kids, but navigating the playground in a wheelchair was next to impossible.

“He said that he would get stuck in the wood chips [on the playground],” recalls Zeph, who is now ten years old and in the fifth grade. “Even if he could get his wheelchair through the wood chips, he had nothing that he could do once he got there.”

Zeph realized that this was an issue that affected dozens of kids in his own school. And now that he knew the problem, Zeph set about finding a solution – and #RecessForAll was born. He rallied twenty-four other kids ranging in age from five to eleven years old to join his campaign, and they began working together to determine what steps they could take to make their playground more accessible.

With Chairman Zeph leading the charge, the Kid Committee, as they have dubbed themselves, meets monthly to discuss the best ways to make their plans a reality. There are a few grown-ups involved as well who are helping Zeph turn #RecessForAll into a 501(c)(3) non-profit.

“I have been blessed to have the opportunity to lead #RecessForAll along with the Kid Committee,” says Zeph. “We want to make sure that ALL kids can play on the playground at recess together, no matter their abilities or their disabilities.”

Zeph and the Kid Committee do not plan to stop with their success at Arcado Elementary. Once they are able to officially become a non-profit organization, they envision accessible programs all over the state, and even the nation.

“I hope that #RecessForAll will grow and the inclusive playgrounds will be the norm!” says Zeph.

To make these dreams happen, the group needs some help from the community. First and foreContinued on page 20

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Recess For All Continued from page 17 most #RecessForAll is meant to raise awareness and inspire acceptance.

“There needs to be more of an awareness of the need for inclusive playgrounds,” Zeph says. “It is not just for physical needs; it’s also the disabilities we do not always see, like sensory needs, anxiety needs, hearing needs, vision needs, or simple things like shade for kids that can’t handle the heat from the sun.”

In order to complete the renovations to their playground, Zeph and the Kid Committee are taking donations from anyone who wants to help. The Gwinnett County Public Schools Foundation has provided a website for the group to collect funds. You can donate today at https:// gcps-foundation.org/gift-designation/recessforall-aracado-es-playground-fund. All donations are tax-deductible, and every little bit helps.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony to start Phase One was celebrated at the end of May, and Zeph even had the opportunity to speak with Star 94’s Jenn Hobby about what he hopes to accomplish with the #RecessForAll Program. These kids may be young, but as the group says, “Play has no limits!” – and neither does kindness.

More information at www.facebook.com/recessforall

Travel Tales: Croatia, Land of Wine, and Ferry Rides

By Pam Walker I am in love with Croatia, a tiny country of 1,244 islands, local wines, and multiple ferry rides!

Once known as Dalmatia in Roman times, Croatia has been ruled

by Rome, the Ottomans, and the Austrian/Hungarians. During WWII, the country was dominated by Communist leader Tito. To date, the ugly apartment buildings from that time dot the larger cities, hiding the amazing architecture from the Medieval and Austrian eras. After a serious war for independence, Croatia emerged as a small independent nation in 1996.

Croatia is now a peaceful land full of vineyards and olive groves, amazing history, and charming people. Everyone has a vineyard in his or her backyards. Individual production is so small that 95% of the wines are consumed locally and are not exported – a fact they are proud of.

On the island of Kvar (pronounced Cwar), I tasted a lovely white wine from vines still producing from Roman times. They don’t let vines grow very high and most reach only a height of three feet. Water is scarce, and each plant only produces about two grape bunches per year. The wines, however, are spectacular!

From Zagreb, the capital, there are wine regions to the north, northwest, central, and all the way to the south. Since wines are not exported, tourism is the main industry in Croatia. There are many national parks with spectacular waterfalls and mountains, and of the many islands along the coast, only 60% are inhabited. Taking a ferry to each island is a must if you want to taste wines and see the amazing history.

Marco Polo was born here as were many scientists including Tesla. There are museums and cathedrals everywhere, all worth visiting. American tourism is just sparking here, but Europeans have been coming for centuries for the lovely spring-like climate and the many beaches.

There is much more to see in Croatia despite my seven ferry rides and ten vineyard trips.

Another visit is a must!

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information atpam@walkeradventures.com

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Turning Sun School Continued from page 15 The school emphasizes a connection to nature and, except in severe weather, the kids are outside every day rain or shine. Gardening is a big part of the focus as well. Students plant, harvest, and eat all of the food they grow, then compost the scraps back into the garden so they understand the full cycle of where the food is coming from.

Another priority is connecting the children to the community, both by bringing community Let our team of real estate members in to the school and by taking the students out. Ms. Adams says they wouldn’t just take a tour of the zoo because that is something children can do with their family on the weekend. professionals help you with your Instead, they seek to have an experience together that’s authentic and relevant to what is being done real estate needs. in the classroom, and one that can have an impact on the community.

These different focuses can come together in project-based learning experiences such as the one 2017 Ms. Adams had in a classroom of one-year-olds. After bringing a bread baker from home, she 130 transactions closed showed the children how to help make bread. While it baked, they •went outside where it was chilly, and were rewarded upon their return to find their bread ready and •hot.

They shared the bread with Average 31 days on market each other, and they shared the next batch with other classes and their teachers. Cooking experts • Our listings sold for 98.36% of were brought in, and the project was expanded to making jams, and then to making “bread and list price jam” gift baskets to share with the neighbors of the school community.

“Within that experience we were able to learn so much vocabulary and to practice writing and measuring,” says Ms. Adams.

Call today to put our proven track “All of those academic skills are within the very sweet and meaningful projects that they did.” record to work for you.

So what do the many experiences help children at Turning Sun School achieve? “The most important thing is we want them to walk away from our school thinking that learning is fun,” says Kathy Coots 770 654-8972 Ms. Adams. “We want them to be ready for whatever they are going to do next and be excited about it.” www.KathyCoots.com More information at https://turningsun.com

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We are fully toany work onproject any size from, so we can make your Perimeter Cares pay off project matter how big orhow small. no matter big or small. house look perfect.no Allproject of our unpaid lunch debt for roofs come with one of the best Roof Repair and Replacement Roof Repair and Replacement elementary school students. warranties in the industry and have paid off over 60 we use above standard roofing Perimeter Roofing is Metro Atlanta’s Roofing Perimeter Roofing is Metro Atlanta’s Roofing We Roof Repair and Replacement Roof Repair and Replacement schools and plan to take care materials. expert.

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678-948-ROOF

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More than 30 Years of Helping People with their Money Roger S. Green, MSFS, CFP®

With more than 30 years of experience helping people with their money through the tough times and the good times, and teaching retirement planning classes since 1997, Roger is very qualified to assist with all of your financial and investment planning needs.

Take control of your financial future by registering for Successful Retirement Strategies held at Gwinnett Technical College

Successful Retirement Strategies Sugarloaf Campus Two Wednesdays July 10 & 17 6:00-9:00pm

Alpharetta Campus Two Thursdays July 11 & 18 6:00-9:00pm

Course tuition is $99 for you and a guest.

Ask about the senior discount!

Registration: call Gwinnett Technical College at 770.995.9697 or go to www.GwinnettTech.edu/CE. Successful Retirement Strategies will be found under the Hobbies and Personal Enrichment section.

Unable to attend class? Call 770.931.1414 today to schedule a no cost personal consultation. www.RogerSGreen.com

Securities and Advisory Services offered through Cetera Advisors LLC, member FINRA/SIPC, a broker/dealer and a Registered Investment Adviser. Green Financial and Cetera Advisors are not otherwise affiliated.

Awards cannot be considered a guarantee of future performance. Green Financial, Gwinnett Tech, and Cetera Advisors are otherwise unaffiliated. Office located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy Duluth, GA 30096.

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Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

Our Town Gwinnett

The Village Corner

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

Live Entertainment July 6th and 20th

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

At BenchMark, your journey is our journey, and we’re committed to getting you back to your best.

That’s why our licensed physical therapists use manual therapy, a hands-on technique that’s proven to get better outcomes so you can start moving and feeling better faster.

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Call your local BenchMark today to set up an evaluation.

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

LAWRENCEVILLE 4825 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Ste C (678) 985-0238

LILBURN – BEAVER RUIN 4145 Lawrenceville Hwy NW, Ste 8 (678) 691-7163

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

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

SNELLVILLE 2050 Scenic Hwy N, Ste A (678) 344-7197 SNELLVILLE CENTERVILLE HWY 124 3641 Centerville Hwy, Ste 400 (470) 365-2135

Our Town Gwinnett

Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

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