Up Close with the Exit 21 Towing, see story on page 5.
Grayson | Dacula | Lawrenceville | Snellville | Loganville
On
Cover: Getting to Know Exit 21 Transport of Atlanta
By Kristen Eleveld
Even Georgia natives are familiar with the town of Roosevelt, New York, better known as “Exit 21” to many locals. Although the town is known for many things, here in Gwinnett, we will probably remember it best for bringing us the excellent team behind Exit 21 Transport of Atlanta, based in our very own Lawrenceville.
“We are car enthusiasts,” said Carlik Jones, who makes up one half of the father-son team that owns and runs the company. “We found that services for towing and transportation were limited, and we decided to fill that need.”
Carlik, who works alongside his father, Raymond, not only loves cars – he also loves giving each client a top-notch experience that reflects Exit 21’s commitment to a job well done. Exit 21 Transport of Atlanta is especially well-known for its transportation of rare, expensive, or classic cars, giving owners the opportunity to have their vehicle taken to its next location without adding additional wear or tear or risking damage to the vehicle. Many towing companies lack the insurance to tow these types of vehicles, and Carlik and Raymond pride themselves on keeping each car they tow in the exact condition it came to them.
But, as Carlik stresses, while Exit 21 has cultivated a huge amount of expertise in transporting specific types of cars, they offer towing and transportation services to any vehicle in need.
“We want to treat each car like it’s a $100,000 car,” said Carlik. “Whether a car has broken down or is being moved to an auto restoration shop, every client gets the white glove treatment.”
In addition to recognizing how important a vehicle is to its owner, regardless of the reason, Carlik and Raymond also place a high priority on customer contact and making sure a client is never left waiting without communication. Clients receive regular updates on the current location of their car, information on when it is expected to arrive at its final location, and even information about traffic or any other obstacles that may change the original plan. The team also covers the seats and steering wheel in plastic to ensure they do not leave so much as a smudge on any surface inside the vehicle.
And just because the company is local doesn’t mean they are confined to
the Gwinnett area.
“We’ve helped off-season Falcons players who need to move their cars out of state and with moving celebrity cars from their homes to the dealer for maintenance,” said Carlik. “It’s been amazing.”
But their services still don’t stop there. The Exit 21 team also offers transportation services to fleets as well as to other local businesses like HVAC companies, wine companies, and heavy equipment that needs to be moved to a new location.
“We’re business-friendly, regular customer-friendly — we work them all,” said Carlik. “If it has four wheels or more, we can help!”
For those who need to reserve services in advance, the process is easy. Just call (678) 861-8693 and speak to Raymond about your needs. But if you find yourself in an emergency and need a quick tow, go ahead and give Raymond a call, too.
Continued on page 11
Publisher/Owner
Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com
Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com Editor
Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com Photography
From the Publisher:
Ryan’s
Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
Wow, can you believe it? We are in July. Time moves fast, so let us enjoy every day and moment. With summer in full swing, we are thrilled to bring you the July 2024 edition of Our Town Magazine. July is a month of warmth, sunshine, and boundless possibilities. It’s a time when we celebrate our local spirit, embrace the season’s joys, and create unforgettable memories with friends and family.
In these pages, we’ve curated a collection of inspiring stories highlighting the incredible individuals, businesses, and initiatives that make our community shine. From the dedicated volunteers making a difference to the innovative entrepreneurs pushing boundaries, we are surrounded by a tapestry of remarkable people who remind us of the strength and resilience within our community.
As we dive into the heart of summer, let’s embrace this season. So, leap and try something new, whether it’s exploring a hidden gem in our community, embarking on a thrilling outdoor adventure, or indulging in the mouthwatering flavors of our local eateries. Let’s savor every moment and create memories that will warm our hearts long after summer fades.
This month, I encourage you to connect with your neighbors, support local businesses, and engage in acts of kindness that uplift those around us. Small gestures can have a significant impact, and by working together, we can build an even more robust, more vibrant community.
Remember, each day is a new chapter waiting to be written. Let’s embrace the opportunities that come our way and dare to dream big. Whether pursuing a personal passion, nurturing a talent, or simply finding joy in the little things,
Continued on page 12
Local Elementary Students Talk to an Astronaut in Space
By Victoria R. Crosby
The children at Lilburn Elementary School recently had a most wonderful experience of speaking with an astronaut in space, Jasmine Moghbeli, through the Amateur Radio International Space Station (ARISS).
Jolie Mayo and Katherine Leaycraft, STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) teachers at the school, recently introduced the students, from kindergarten to fifth grade, to life in outer space. It began when the husband of teacher Candy Randall, a ham radio enthusiast, made them aware of the program.
Leaycraft has been teaching at the school since 2012 and Mayo since 2016. To prepare for the contact, Mayo studied and passed the qualification exam to obtain her technical license, which is issued by the Federal Communications Commission.
Licensed radio partners included Darryl Young of North Fulton Amateur
Radio League, and Ralph Pickwick Gwinnett Amateur Radio Society, with original music by Austin Rideout.
The entire school had been preparing for the contact event since the beginning of the school year. Classrooms and hallways were decorated in space décor. Teachers incorporated space content and lessons into their instruction as often as they could. Students learned everything from details about what it was like living in the International Space Station to the creative process of designing their own mission patches to represent their school and class. They also got a hands-on opportunity throughout the year to learn morse code and Ham radio processes.
Principal Mike Bender said that “the students were looking forward to the opportunity, which gave them the chance to witness STEM principles firsthand. They are proud to be among the few schools selected to participate in this amazing and unique opportunity.”
“There was no way for me to predict the impact this had on teachers and students,” said Leaycraft. “It was a big deal for these students, many who are children of immigrants, to see this woman astronaut, an immigrant originally from Iran.”
Continued on page 12
Legal Talk: An Overview of Landlord-Tenant Laws
By Ashley Lewis
To comply with the tenant eviction laws in Georgia, landlords must follow a specific set of procedures that start with providing the tenant with adequate notice.
Georgia landlords have a right to evict their tenants for violating the terms of the rental agreement. The following are examples of common lease violations that may lead to an eviction:
(1) Nonpayment of rent
(2) Violation of lease agreement
(3) Refusal by the tenants to leave after a rental period expires
To begin the eviction process, the landlord must serve the tenant with a written notice, which should include specific details to ensure compliance with Georgia law. Thereafter, if the tenant fails to comply with the notice, the landlord can file a dispossessory warrant through the court beginning the dispossessory process.
In summary, by understanding the Georgia eviction process and tenant eviction laws, both landlords and tenants can navigate the eviction process more smoothly, ensuring compliance with the law and a resolution that respects the rights of all parties involved. Thereafter, specific steps must be followed throughout the court process to ensure a smooth and successful eviction.
How Can We Help?
If you’re having any trouble or have any questions, get in touch with us at (404) 228-2629. I am happy to assist you with this process or answer any of your landlord-tenant questions!
Ashley Lewis is an Associate with Weinstein & Black, LLC. More information at https://wblegal.net/
Learning Lessons: Teaching Little Hands to Make a Big Difference
By Tanisha Turner
In today’s world, it is important to take purposeful steps to help children grow up to be compassionate and generous human beings. Children who learn the value of giving back at a young age are better able to develop a sense of empathy and citizenship. In addition, research shows that young children who have high prosocial skills – or behaviors meant to benefit another – are also among the most cognitively ready for school.
While teaching young children the joy of giving back can seem overwhelming for parents, helping to instill these attributes in your little ones may be simpler than you think. A study conducted by two Harvard anthropologists, John and Beatrice Whiting, observed the altruistic practices of
children of six different cultures. Their findings indicate that, regardless of culture, gender, or socioeconomic status, the most significant differentiating variable is that children assigned more household responsibilities are more helpful and giving.
Encouraging children to contribute to the well-being of the family at a young age – by taking care of the family’s pets, helping parents care for younger siblings, and performing household chores – teaches them the importance of giving back, and, more importantly, the sense of fulfillment derived from helping others. Parents can use the following tips to help nurture selflessness and generosity in children at home:
1. Model kindness to your child and others. Let your child see you offering to help a neighbor or co-worker and express to him or her the happiness you feel when helping others.
Continued on page 16
I n t e r i o r & E x t e r i o r
P a i n t i n g
C a b i n e t P a i n t i n g
C a r p e n t r y R e p a i r s
G u t t e r & G u a r d
I n s t a l l a t i o n
B r i c k & C o n c r e t e
C o a t i n g s
OWNER, NATE MCMICHAEL
Three Ways to Look and Feel Your Best This Summer
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The hottest days of the year can create several seasonal beauty challenges. Here’s a head-to-toe guide to looking and feeling your best in summer:
Hair: Dry heat and humidity can cause hair problems, such as drying and frizzing. Whether you’re hitting the beach or pool or just enjoying the warm weather, giving your hair the care it deserves to stay hydrated and frizz-free is essential.
When enjoying the sun, try protective hairstyles such as buns, braids, and ponytails. These will reduce frizz while preventing damage from wind and humidity. One bonus benefit of these dos is that getting your tresses off your neck will also help keep you nice and cool.
Remember that just like drinking water hydrates your body, using the right shampoo and conditioner can replenish and protect dehydrated strands. Your shampoo and conditioner should clean well, replenish, smooth, and condition to fight frizz and lock in the right balance of moisture.
Skin: Unfortunately, summer activities and fashion choices can be associated with many skincare woes. After swim sessions, take a quick shower to rinse off chlorine and prevent sensitivity and dryness. Whether you go for a run or play pickleball, don’t sit around in your workout clothes afterward. Showering after sweat sessions of all kinds can help keep your skin clear of blemishes.
You may also be shaving more frequently in summer. Prevent razor burn with exfoliation and by using after-care products that soothe skin. Finally, when it comes to your long-term beauty and wellness, it’s essential to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF. Doing so is not only good for you, but
it can also help prevent the appearance of aging.
Nails: If you’ll be wearing sandals regularly this summer, you’ll want to treat your feet to pedicures so they look their best. Start any at-home pedicure session by soaking your feet in a bath prepared with Epsom salt or essential oils. Dry your feet, and then gently use a pumice stone to remove dried skin and calluses. After clipping and shaping your nails, consider painting them with clear nail polish for a finished look, or go bold with a bright summer color.
With a few tweaks to your beauty regimen, you can wholly embrace the summer while looking and feeling your best. I hope everyone is having a great summer and that these tips prove helpful to you. (StatePoint).
Exit 21 Transport of Atlanta
So whether you are moving your prized collectible car to your new home two states away or need a way to get the family minivan to the repair shop, Exit 21 Transport of Atlanta is the only call you will have to make. Give them a call today to schedule your transportation needs. More information at https://www.exit-21towing.com/ or (678) 861-8693
Local Elementary Students
Continued from page 8
Mayo agreed. “They were mesmerized,” she said.
Astronaut Jasmine Moghbeli was born in 1983 in Bad Neuheim, West Germany of Iranian parents. Her father was an architect who emigrated to the United States in 1984 with his wife and children. Jasmine graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in aerospace engineering and information technology. She was commissioned as an officer of the United States Marine Corps in 2005 and trained to be an AH-1 Super Cobra Pilot.
Jasmine was deployed overseas three times, completing one hundred and fifty combat missions. She received her master’s degree in aerospace engineering from the US Naval Postgraduate School in California. She is married and has twin girls.
The students were asked to submit questions. A committee then chose the more unique questions to ask the astronaut.
The first question was how she was doing emotionally, which Moghbeli said that today was a good day. Other questions had to do with growing plants in
space, what she likes to read in space, and when she wears a space suit. Jasmine Moghbeli was a huge inspiration to the children. She is certainly a woman making history.
More information at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlwg2rof0LA
Ryan’s Remarks
Continued from page 7
let this summer be a season of growth, fulfillment, and positivity.
Thank you for being a part of our amazing community and allowing us to share the stories that inspire, inform, and bring us closer together. Your support fuels our passion, and we are committed to delivering a magazine that reflects the heart and soul of our local community. I wish each of you a July filled with laughter, sunshine, and endless possibilities. Let’s make this summer our best one yet!
Here is to a great July 2024. And as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!
Principal Field Trip and Partnership Gwinnett
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Partnership Gwinnett, in collaboration with Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS), recently hosted its annual Principal Field Trip event. The program’s aim was to connect professionals in education and industry to support continued workforce development based on existing and future needs.
The day began with breakfast and a panel discussion featuring Nick Masino, President & CEO of Partnership Gwinnett; Dr. Calvin J. Watts, Superintendent of Gwinnett County Public Schools; Chad Wagner, President of Peachtree Packaging; and Lauren Croft, HR Director at Peachtree Packaging.
Dr. Calvin J. Watts stated, “Our principals and educators play a critical role in shaping the future workforce of Gwinnett County. This event provides an opportunity to bridge the gap between education and industry, ensuring our students are prepared and ready for high-skill and in-demand careers.”
In addition to having lunch at Gwinnett Technical College, principals visited several industry partners, including Price Industries, QTS, Peachtree Packaging, Mitsubishi Trane HVAC, Aluvision, CleanSpark, Nextran, WIKA,
Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett Kicks Off Capital Campaign: “They Will Grow 2.0”
By Tana Poncsak
The Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett is growing. The school that started out as a preschool with four students in a converted storage closet in Christ the Lord Lutheran Church in Lawrenceville, now teaches students preschool age through high school and beyond, including a Young Adult Learning Life Skills (YALLS) program that focuses on teaching life skills and building independence. With the younger students starting at the beginning of education to the Adult Learning Life Skill Program, the school literally serves about a fifty-year age span. And the school has gone from the four original students to teaching about seventy students in the school program with another twenty-six attendees in the YALLS program.
According to Jamie Hamilton, executive director and chief executive officer of the Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett, around mid-May, there were already eighty-five families on the waiting list for the 2024-2025 school year.
“We hate to know there are families out there who really want to be here,” Jamie says. “They are wonderful young people, and we know that our approach to education and this environment is a great fit for them. We just don’t have the capacity.”
At least not yet. The school has launched a capital campaign, They Will Grow 2.0, to fund the construction of a new additional school building to help accommodate the growing number of students. In May, an event was held to kick off the capital campaign with a visit from Brett Coltman of Coltman Farms Racing. Brett has been a friend of the school and a donor for about five years now. He also owns a dirt track racing team. For the kickoff event, Brett brought two drivers and their race cars, and the cars included the school’s logo.
“The kids got to see the cars, meet the drivers, and get their autographs,” Jamie says. “It doesn’t get a whole lot better than that.”
But then, it does. Jamie says that Brett made a financial contribution of one
and Eagle Rock Studios. These visits allowed educational leaders to engage with local businesses and understand industry needs.
Chad Wagner of Peachtree Packaging said, “Supporting this event underscores our commitment to investing in the future of our workforce. By partnering with GCPS and Partnership Gwinnett, we can ensure that students are equipped with the skills necessary to thrive in today’s job market.”
Gwinnett County Public Schools, the largest public school district in the state, serves over 182,000 students across 142 schools. The district’s diverse student population, representing 191 countries and speaking 98 languages, benefits from career pathways and college and career readiness programs supporting career exploration, industry certifications, and internships.
“With thousands of students graduating each year, GCPS significantly contributes to the 2.6 million labor draw within a one-hour drive of Gwinnett County,” said Partnership Gwinnett Director of Economic Development Andrew Hickey. “As these graduates enter the workforce, they bring essential skills for high-skill and in-demand careers, ensuring a strong future for the local economy.”
More information at https://partnershipgwinnett.com/
million dollars toward the school’s capital campaign goal.
“This was really a truly amazing day,” Jamie says. “To know that there are people out there like Brett, who have found a cause that they believe in. Obviously he’s been successful in his professional life and has chosen to use that platform to do a lot of really good things. We’re just really fortunate that he has gotten to know our school and believes in our kids.”
Jamie says it’s the largest single donation the school has ever received in its thirty-seven years.
However, construction costs are expensive and their capital campaign is just beginning. Donations are always welcome. But Jamie also explains that there is a tax credit program in the state of Georgia, called the Georgia Student Scholarship Organization, that allows any taxpayer, personal or business, to create scholarships for private schools.
“It’s a 100% taxpayer program, so it’s a literal dollar for dollar swap,” he says. “That has been a game changing option where people realize they basi-
Continued on page 16
Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful: From Earth Day to Waterways
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
With a jam-packed roster of programs and events that run the gamut from Adopt-A-Road to Household Hazardous Waste Collection Days, after forty-four years since its launch, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful (GC&B) practically runs like a well-oiled machine. At the same time, the eco-focused nonprofit continues to innovate, consistently seeking improvement from one event – and year – to the next. That commitment to advancement was most recently exemplified in two annual springtime events – the Earth Day Recycling Event and Great Gwinnett Wetlands 2024.
Hosted at Coolray Field on April 27, GC&B’s annual Earth Day Recycling Event engaged an unprecedented number of neighbors who arrived in 1,818 vehicles. In three hours, a little over 120 volunteers collected 2.25 tons of textiles, 10,162 gallons of paint, twelve tons of tires, eighteen tons of paper, three tons of cardboard, and twenty-four tons of electronics. Combined, more than seventy-two tons were diverted from local landfills, roughly seven times the weight of a Tyrannosaurus Rex.
This significant contribution to waste reduction is a testament to the power of community action. In addition, for the first time during the annual event, the Gwinnett County Police Department collected eight-yard waste-sized bags of expired or unwanted prescription and OTC medications. That’s a large portion of the 575 pounds of medications collected throughout the county as part of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Initiative. Given the response, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful hopes to make this an annual offering to county residents during future Earth Day events.
Marking the tenth year since its launch, Great Gwinnett Wetlands proved another resounding success for Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful during its observation on May 4th. A cleanup event historically involving one wetland site was expanded to three for the first time – including Sweetwater Creek at Omega Drive, Bethesda Park, and Beaver Ruin Wetlands. Over four hours, seventy-four volunteers fanned out over the three locations. At two sites, they collected a combined 3,255 pounds of litter, including tires, car parts, pallets, and even toy cars. At the third site, volunteers removed a quarter acre of privet – invasive plants that choke the health of the wetland.
“We don’t do this alone – thank goodness,” said Schelly Marlatt, Executive Director for Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful. “We are genuinely blessed to share these successes with a solid network of Gwinnett County Government Departments. We couldn’t do all that we do without the partnerships fostered with the dedicated team members at the Department of Water Resources, Solid Waste Management, Parks & Recreation, Communications, Police, and Fire – just to name a few. In turn, Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful and all our county partners owe many of these successes to the incredible volunteers who show up and show out despite rainy skies or blazing temperatures, and we are so grateful. The way this community comes together is a testament to how amazing Gwinnett County truly is.”
The next event on Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful’s calendar is the second Household Hazardous Waste Collection Day of 2024. It will be hosted at Gwinnett County Fairgrounds on July 20th from 8 to11 a.m. During the three-hour event, GC&B and its partners at Gwinnett County Department of Water Resources will collect various household hazardous waste that can’t be disposed of or recycled curbside, ranging from auto batteries to weed killers. In addition to attendees, the event will require volunteers to ensure its success.
More information at https://gwinnettcb.org/events/household-hazardous-waste-collection-day/.
Anticipate… A Word for Your Day
By Jane Bishop
Years ago, my then sixteen-year-old nephew came for a visit. One of the things we did was spend the day at Six Flags. A new roller coaster had opened that season, and he was looking forward to experiencing a fun-filled and exhilarating ride. Now, I ride roller coasters, but this one was not on my “approved” list, and I was anticipating a stress-filled ride with a lot of screams! Unknown to him, I attempted to be prepared and anticipate all the emotions I might experience while we waited in line and talked. About thirty minutes into our wait, an afternoon summer thunderstorm hit the park. Conditions were not going to permit any additional rides to be taken. So, on one side (his), the excitement of looking forward to something was “dowsed.” On the other side (mine), I was excited and relieved.
The ability to anticipate is a valuable skill that can be honed over time through experience and practice. It is the art of foreseeing what is probable or expected in each situation and to be as prepared as possible. Reflecting on how I have developed this skill over the years, I attribute much of it to my involvement in sports, both as a player and a coach. In sports, anticipating is
crucial for devising game plans. You study the opposing team, analyze their tendencies, and predict their potential moves. It is about staying one step ahead and creating strategies tailored to anticipated scenarios.
However, there is a balance to maintain when it comes to anticipating. While it helps us to prepare for challenges and opportunities, it is equally important not to become rigid in our expectations. We must remain open-minded and adaptable to the present moment. I was not sure I would not scream or be very frightened on the ride that day. However, I knew myself and how to prepare and be willing to try the ride mentally.
When practicing anticipating, it is essential to draw upon other skills – such as adaptability, resilience, and continuous learning – to effectively navigate through challenges of unforeseen circumstances. Just like the best-designed game plan, the ability to anticipate and prepare only puts us in the best position to be successful.
How do you utilize your ability to anticipate and better prepare for challenges and opportunities? It is a question worth pondering as you strive for continual growth and development. A healthy self-leadership tool kit includes the tool of anticipating for effectiveness.
More information at www.janebishop.live.
Road Trip? Keep These Tips in Mind
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
Whether you’re day-tripping with family, taking a week-long vacation with pals, or doing a cross-country solo drive, summer road trips can be long and exhausting. The good news? There are plenty of ways to improve the experience.
Great Snacks: Road trip snacks are non-negotiable! They make car rides of any length brighter, keep drivers and passengers happy, and fuel them for the miles ahead. It’s best to have a mix of snack options that are easy to eat in the car or at roadside stops. Carrot sticks, pretzels, and nuts make great savory choices.
For an easy, on-the-go, fruity, and juicy snack, try Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms. Now juicier, Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms are made in six delicious fruit flavors, making them a great road trip snack. Crafted with care, they are made with real fruit juice and colors and flavors from real sources.
Refreshing Breaks: Having a great time shouldn’t come at the expense of your or your traveling companions’ comfort. Beyond typical bathroom breaks and pit stops, consider visiting points of interest along the route.
Ideally, these detours shouldn’t add too much additional mileage to your odometer or time on the road, but instead, be designed to break up the trip into manageable chunks. From a natural landmark to a beautiful view, the experiences will emotionally and physically rejuvenate your party for the next leg of the journey.
Games and Music: Entertainment can help the miles pass more quickly. If you’re driving alone, prep a great playlist or download some audiobooks or podcasts before the trip so you aren’t distracted by flipping through your device while driving. Try giving each hour of the journey a different theme – such as songs of a specific genre, from a particular decade, or by letting passengers take turns being the DJ.
You can also pass the time by playing classic road trip games like “I Spy” and “Twenty Questions.” You can keep passengers in the backseat occupied, particularly little ones, by supplying them with portable versions of their favorite board games.
Sustainable Tweaks: It’s easy to reduce your impact on the environment on road trips, and doing so will make you and your travel companions feel better and more energized about your journey! Try turning off the AC and feeling the fresh breeze from open windows to reduce fuel use. Regarding hydration, please bring your own reusable water bottles and refill them at rest station water fountains.
You can also select snacks wisely. For example, Black Forest Gummy Bears and Gummy Worms are now available in store drop-off recycle-ready packaging. Help protect the planet by participating in the Store Drop-Off program, conveniently located at retail stores along your route.
So, have a great trip this summer everyone. With delicious snacks, fun games, and detours, a road trip doesn’t just have to be a means to an end; it can also be a relaxing and fun part of your vacation. (StatePoint)
“They
Will Grow 2.0”
Continued from page 13
cally get the ability to have a voice in how their tax dollars are being spent.”
Jamie adds, “Whether you have a special needs child in your life or not, there are very few people who don’t appreciate the importance of the young people that we serve, and wanting to help them has been a huge catalyst for positive change.
In finding the Special Needs Schools of Gwinnett, Jamie says the families and the students have not only found a place that has their best interest in mind, but that’s also ready to serve them specifically.
“That’s my main motivation,” Jamie says, “knowing that my efforts directly impact the lives of people who really need it and are very, very deserving of it.”
More information at https://www.georgiasso.com/ or http://specialneedsschools.org./
Travel Tales: Everyone Needs a Good Vacation
By Pam Walker
Everyone needs a good vacation! I must say that the few days that I spent with family in Bozeman, Montana, were spectacular. We didn’t do anything out of the ordinary for Montana; just drove to Ted Turner’s two million acres at the base of the Spanish Peaks to see the “wild things.” The herds of Bison in late Spring are amazing. It was calving time, so the hundreds of females in the pastures were surrounded by equally as many baby “bufs” as I call them. Although my family lives in town, almost every day deer would come into their yard to eat the sweet trees sprouting and the new flowers blooming. Yes, it was the beginning of June, but it is spring in Montana with temps in the 50s and 60s still. It can even snow!
Bozeman is a great destination any time of the year. Winter ski areas like Big Sky and Bridger Bowl are close by, and Yellowstone National Park is only about one hour south. In spring and summer, Bozeman and its environs are the center of the fly-fishing world! There are rivers everywhere and streams full of trout. And if you like to hike or mountain bike, there are trails everywhere.
Both Bozeman and nearby Big Sky now have top-rated hotels and resorts, and the little downtown areas are quaint and filled with stores offering everything from ten-gallon hats to riding boots for that next dude ranch experience.
Yes, there are ranches for visitors, too. There is the famous Lone Mountain Ranch near Big Sky and even the Covered Wagon Ranch in Gallatin Gateway just outside of Bozeman. They don’t offer covered wagon accommodations, however. Most ranches offer cozy log cabins, all meals as well as horse pack trips, and plenty of hiking. You can also fly fish to your heart’s content in nearby rivers. Best of all, many of these ranches are close to Yellowstone National Park!
So next time you are looking for a good place to get away that is not too far from home…consider Bozeman or anywhere in the US West. Why fly to Europe to join the crowds that are there this year when you can get outside in the wonderful mountains of the United States? You will love it!
Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@ walkeradventures.com.
Learning
Lessons Continued from page 9
2. Remind your child how helping benefits others. Include your child in simple activities by asking for help. For instance, you might say, “Who wants to be my special helper today and help carry laundry to the washer? We won’t have clean clothes without you!” Or, “The dog looks hungry. I bet he’d really appreciate it if you gave him his food and water.”
3. Acknowledge helpful behavior. Show your appreciation and explain why it was helpful to you. For example, rather than just saying “Thank you,” instead say, “Thank you for helping me carry the dishes to the kitchen without being asked. That saved me a lot of time.”
4. Encourage giving. If another child doesn’t have a toy to play with, suggest that your child offer a toy so they can have something fun to play with.
5. Avoid rewarding generosity. Avoid material rewards for helping and giving behaviors. Treats for good deeds may work in the short term, but children may become less generous over time when the rewards stop. You may also consider taking your child with you to volunteer for a nonprofit organization. Choosing age-appropriate volunteer activities is important. Children as young as three years old enjoy participating in group activities and are able to follow directions. Think through the following questions to help select a volunteer opportunity that is right for your family: Does the organization have experience working with children and families? Will the organization staff welcome my child’s participation? Is there a specific job that my child can do successfully? Can the organization help my child understand how his or her efforts benefit others?
Compassion and generosity are important traits for every person to have. Helping young children learn the joy and fulfillment of lending a helping hand to others will empower them to make a difference in the world, both as children and adults.
Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com or call 770-513-0066.
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