JUN '19/ JULY '19: Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

JUNE/JULY 2019 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville

Up Close with Brand & Britt Insurance, see story on page 5.

9 15 16 20

Business Matters: Meet Amanda Luton & Magnolia Marketing Community Spotlight: Washington Farms Says Farewell Cheerleading: Teaching Hard Work and Soft Skills Making a Difference: Beyond the Ribbon & Bobbie Menneg

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Our Town Gwinnett

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Our Town Gwinnett

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Our Town Gwinnett

On the Cover: Big Insurance with a Hometown Feel

By Kristen Eleveld No one looks forward to contacting their insurance company. Between countless minutes spent on hold and the confusion of dealing with different departments, many people find themselves at a loss for what to do next. But one insurance company has spent the last forty years becoming exactly what you need and want in your insurance partner.

Founded in 1970, Brand and Britt Insurance (known as Britt Insurance at the time) has long been a familiar name to the community of Grayson. It is a truly family-owned and operated organization, and has always maintained the idea that “Protecting what’s important to you, is what’s important to us!”

And while they may be a hometown company, they run as efficiently and on as large of a scale as any of their industry comrades.

“We can help people from start to finish for all of their insurance coverage,” said Alicia Wehner, a Commercial Insurance Agent with Brand and Britt. “Commercial, bonding, personal, disability, group health – we do it all.”

Brand and Britt Insurance stands out among the competition in a myriad of ways, starting with the sheer number of options they are able to offer each client. They have partnered with over 35 different insurance carriers, meaning their clients have the ability to compare and contrast the services of each provider, and to choose the one that best suits their needs and their budget.

If that sounds like an overwhelming task, don’t worry – the agents at Brand and Britt make the process easy for you by doing all of the hard work themselves. All you have to do is answer some questions to let them know what you need, and then sit back as your agent researches all the best plans available to you.

“If you don’t like talking about yourself, you might be at the wrong place,” laughed Alicia as she described the company’s commitment to doing a thorough assessment in the earliest phase of the client relationship.

Whether Brand and Britt needs to come onsite to make a better assessment of your needs or go over your current policy to see how well it suits your company, they always understand the value that even the smallest detail can offer.

And once your policy is set up, the questions aren’t over! Brand and Britt reaches out to their clients on a regular basis to make sure there isn’t anything a client needs, and to ensure that their current plan is still the best fit.

“We are very hands-on,” Alicia said of her relationships with each of her clients. “We want to be the perfect addition to your business, so we strive for continued communication.”

With so much dedication to even potential clients, it’s no surprise that Brand and Britt places a high priority on serving their clients as individuals with unique needs. With seven commercial agents and eight personalized agents in the home office, they dedicate each working moment to serving their clients.

“No one is a number here,” said Alicia, who has been with the company for four years. “We give the same level of care to every client, no matter what.”

While Brand and Britt calls Grayson home, they are now licensed to operate in over 30 states, and have a total of 28 employees spread out over what will soon be four office locations in Georgia. Their clients run the gamut of large to small, coast to coast, and personalized to commercial insurance needs.

They even have an app! Both iPhone and Android users can download the free Brand and Britt app to access everything they need, right from their phones. A copy of your policy, your auto ID cards, and anything else you may need is always ready and waiting for you. But Alicia stresses that clients do not have to use the app or its tools to make the most out of their insurance policy. Agents are always available to help with claims, speak with your provider, and everything in between.

“We’re there no matter what,” Alicia promised. “We serve people however they want to be served.”

More information at brandandbritt.com.

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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.

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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.

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Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

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

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultZ.com Cover Photographer Marcie Reif Photography

Drs. Vic Koehler, Beau Upshaw and Stewart Helton

770-466-0474 www.CreeksideDentistry.net 3238 KRISAM CREEK DR. • LOGANVILLE, GA 30052 Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry ADA,GDA, Hinman Dental Society

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Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Pearl Aidoo Heidi Campbell K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Kim Hill Amy Ney Traci Sanders Beth Volpert Johansen Contributing Writers Bill Crane Terie Hansen Kelsey Sauers Tanisha Turner David Walker Pam Walker

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm EndResultZ.com Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett /Walton 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.

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 7 8 9 9 10 10 13 13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21

On the Cover: Big Insurance with a Hometown Feel From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion Legal Talk: The Importance of Having a Will Business Matters: Magnolia Marketing Mama Learning Lessons: Encouraging Daily Physical Activity for Children Getting Schooled with Turning Sun School: Bringing Italian-based Approach to Gwinnett Age is Merely a Number To the Class of 2019: Five Things Learned During My Freshman Year of College Travel Tales: Is Tourism Destroying the Planet?

Pet Perch: Dog Friendly Restaurant Etiquette for Fido Washington Farms Says Farewell Cheerleading: Teaching Hard Work and Soft Skills SE Gwinnett Co-Op: More than a Food Pantry Crane’s Corner: A Special Thanks for a Special Educator Going Beyond the Ribbon with Bobbie Menneg Soccer is for “The Birds”

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Our Town Gwinnett

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

School is out and summer is here. Kudos to the graduates of 2019 and to the academic and athletic successes of our schools. Amazing!

We should all be so proud of where we work, live, and play.

Our goal is always to bring you the best in writing local and organic stories that never lose sight of our positive community and family focus. This demands a great team, and it is an honor to work with them.

We have superb feature and contributing writers. We have an amazing creative director, editor, and cover photographer. Our accounting, customer service, and webmaster are second to none.

Our distribution coordinator, print/mail partners, and digital media group do a terrific job as well. Our new website is under construction and will be ready soon. Well done team!

With that said, we are never satisfied and are always looking to grow and improve. This is our goal each day, week, and month. Again, I may be writing this column, but it is the super team of Our Town that makes it ALL happen You see, we are not merely a “print publication,” but instead...a community connection point that people trust. Others may “sell advertising.” We offer value, expertise, and creativity. We grow your brand. You have a choice of where you invest your marketing dollars. Go with who you trust and who understands 2019 and beyond.

So, the next time you are deciding where to allocate your funds, I suggest you ask the person “selling to you” what they know about branding and marketing. And I mean “all marketing” (i.e. content marketing, digital marketing, inbound marketing, influence marketing, social media marketing, integrated marketing etc.). My guess is that most know little beyond their own offerings and pricing. So, when you need help, connect with us and we will confidently walk you through the pros and cons of each medium, making the process simple and saving you time.

People look forward to reading Our Town (in print, online, of social channels) each month.

They trust it, pay attention to it, and spend time with it. We are excited about the future – and there’s exciting growth ahead! I wish you a wonderful and safe summer. And, as always, thank you for continuing with us on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

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PAGE 7

Legal Talk: The Importance of Having a Will

By David Walker  Why make a will? A will allows you to plan the disposition of your property upon death. If you don’t have a will, state law will dictate how your estate is divided. If you are a Georgia resident, your spouse and your children will divide it equally, except that a spouse receives at least one third.

A will done by a person of sound mind, not under duress, can in effect change the law as to who inherits your property.

Generally, a will must be in writing, and in Georgia must be signed in the presence of two witnesses. The witnesses can be sworn in when the will is signed by using a self-proving affidavit.

Being of sound mind means that a person must have the mental capacity to understand the purpose and choices being made. A will can be invalid if made with undue influence by a beneficiary.

If a will needs to be amended, then a written document with two witnesses is required.

Writing any changes on the will itself can void the entire will.

Revocable living trusts are alternatives to making a will. This involves creating a trust, which is a separate legal entity from the trust creator. Then, all assets are transferred to the trust and owned by the trust.

Another alternative to a will is a jointly titled property. Upon the death of one owner, the survivor receives title to the property by operation of law.

In estate planning, there are related documents such as advanced directives and powers of attorney. A durable power of attorney can be used for disability planning; someone manages business affairs when another person is unable to manage their affairs. An advance directive can be used to make medical decisions, including life support decisions.

Our firm has been assisting clients with wills, estate planning matters, probates, and will contests since 1976. Let us know how we can help you.

More information at www.Walker-Law-Firm.com

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PAGE 8 OTG 1-2V 2019-06 JUN/JULYBecome or Call 678-825-2049 PS0244 MECH ENGA.indd 1 an Advertising Partner: Visit 5/2/19 OurTownGwinnett.com 2:33 PM

Our Town Gwinnett

Business Matters: Magnolia Marketing Mama METRO ATLANTA

By Traci Sanders Most entrepreneurs will agree that one of the most challenging aspects of running your own business is the marketing. There are multiple ways to get your brand in front of fresh eyes, but it’s not always easy deciding which route to take. Many entrepreneurs are spending numerous hours and thousands of dollars to keep up with the new technological age and methods of doing business, especially social media platforms. Let’s be honest. As much as we try to resist it, social media is not going away, and it is where potential customers are spending the majority of their time each day. Therefore, it’s a tool that all entrepreneurs must learn to navigate if they don’t want to be left behind in the world of business.

Thankfully, there are social media marketing experts in the world like Amanda Luton. Amanda is a work-at-home mom of three who found herself managing the marketing needs for her husband’s company about three years ago. Other local business owners took note of Amanda’s talent and contracted

GCPS is Hiring Bus Drivers!

Continued on page 15

Learning Lessons: Encouraging Daily Physical Activity for Children

By Tanisha Turner If you have a toddler or preschooler in your family, chances are you have more trouble getting him or her to sit still than be active.

But even with all of their natural energy, it’s still important for parents to encourage and support children’s physical development.

Research shows that daily physical activity may help increase attention span and improve cognitive processing, and children who develop basic physical skills, such as throwing, catching, and balancing, are more likely to grow into healthy, active adults. In short, learning basic physical skills is essential to your child’s healthy growth and development.

Children, however, do not necessarily learn physical skills on their own – they need guidance from adults and challenging activities and opportunities to practice and refine physical skills. To help your child develop physically, use the tips below to create a fun, active, and healthy environment for your family.

Provide safe spaces for physical activity. Designate safe spaces inside and outside of your home for your child to be active. Take a moment to see the world through his or her eyes to identify any potential hazards in the space. For example, are there any cords to trip over when playing inside?

Similarly, before playtime begins address any rules like staying in the yard and out of the road, and discourage any negative behaviors such as throwing a ball at another child’s face.

Make age-appropriate equipment available. Developing motor skills and other physical skills Continued on page 17

Drive for success at our Bus Driver Fair!

Applicants are required to have a good driving record and a high school diploma or GED.

When: Saturday, July 13, 2019

Time: 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Where:

Gwinnett County Public Schools J. Alvin Wilbanks Instructional Support Center 437 Old Peachtree Road, NW - Building #200 Suwanee, GA 30024

Make our Bus Driver Job Fair your first stop!

678-469-1599 | scottpressurewash@gmail.com Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 9

The Heart of What Matters

Getting Schooled with Turning Sun School: Bringing Italian-based Approach to Gwinnett

By Kim Hill

Beverly D’Amico RN, MSN, GRS Life Coach & Grief Recovery Counselor TheHeartofWhatMatters.com 770-896-3871 TheHeartofWhatMatters@gmail.com

“The Voice of Business”

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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 weeks of school getting to know and understand each child. The curriculum emerges from those classroom observations. “We’re hitting all those academic achievement milestones you need before Kindergarten, but within the context of what is interesting to the children,” she explains. “Who are the children, where did they come from, who are their families, what are their experiences, what is going to excite them?”

Art activities take place in the Atelier, 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.”

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 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.

Instead, they seek to have an experience together that’s authentic and relevant to what is being done 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 Ms. Adams had in a classroom of one-year-olds. After bringing a bread baker from home, she 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 Continued on page 18

Age is Merely a Number

By Traci Sanders

BusinessRadioX.com moreinfo@businessradiox.com PAGE 10

All shows are broadcast from the

Studio

Taking care of our senior population has been a priority in Gwinnett County for more than forty-five years. What started out as Meals on Wheels has blossomed into several additional programs to meet the physical, emotional, and social needs for aging citizens in Gwinnett.

Gwinnett Senior Services are primarily funded through the Atlanta Regional Commission through the Older Americans Act to provide funding for home and community-based services, case management, nutrition services, Senior Centers, and much more.

Programs are established in Buford, Lawrenceville, Norcross, Grayson, Snellville, and Centerville.

I recently had the immense pleasure of visiting the satellite location of Snellville in the Betty McMichael Room at Briscoe Park, and gained a wealth of insight as to what it takes to make a program such as this a success.

As I entered the building, I noticed a group of thirty or so seniors in a room positioned to my right. I peeked inside and saw they were being led in simple, large-muscle movements by an energetic, smiling instructor. The great thing is that the seniors were smiling as well, truly enjoying themselves. Right away I could tell that this experience was going to be different than what I had expected from a Senior Center.

I was greeted by Regina Miller, Division Director of Health and Human Services, and Gail Continued on page 14

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Our Town Gwinnett

Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 11

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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.

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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.

PAGE 12

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To the Class of 2019: Five Things Learned During My Freshman Year of College

By Kelsey Sauers Congratulations to the Class of 2019. You made it! Many of you will now embark on the next step of your journey where you will move into your dorm, meet what will seem like a thousand new people, and begin to pursue a path of study that you will attend to for the rest of your life.

It’s hard to believe it has been a year since I graduated high school. There were times throughout the year when I truly thought it would never end, but looking back retrospectively, it was the quickest year of my life! Here are five of the most important things I learned over the course of this year.

1. What’s meant to be will be.

If a door has closed, stop banging on it! If something is meant to work out, it will. Maybe not right now, but it will. And if it’s not meant to, then don’t sweat it. You don’t have to have everything in your life figured out at age 18.

2. Don’t be afraid of change.

In your first semester especially, so much change will occur. Everyone is trying to figure out who they are and settling in to who they are becoming. Don’t be surprised if the first friends you meet are not the same people you are calling your best friends at the end of the year, or if the major you have been set on studying for your whole life is not what you want to pursue anymore a few months in. Embrace change – it’s healthy and it’s exciting!

3. It’s okay to feel like you have absolutely no idea what’s going on.

Although it may seem like everyone else around you has it all figured out and you are the only one who is lost, I promise that is not the case. No matter how put-together someone seems, he or she is likely facing the same internal struggles that you are.

Continued on page 14

Travel Tales: Is Tourism Destroying the Planet?

By Pam Walker Tourism is one of the major industries of the world. It is also the largest employer. This means jobs, trade, and people enjoying getting to know our world without political prejudices.

But, at the same time, are we destroying what we love and want to see? Places like Machu Picchu in Peru have limited entrance times to accommodate the thousands who want to see it. Angkor Watt and the Galapagos Islands are also limiting visitors. Many places around the world are now taking a second look at their national treasures as they become overrun with success.

Cruises are one of the biggest perpetrators of this massive tour boom. The largest ship in the world, Symphony of the Seas, takes 6,680 guests with a crew of 2,200. That is almost 9,000 people coming ashore at various ports. Places like Venice are beginning to limit the size of the ships they are letting into port, as the city is sinking. Certain ports in Cuba are now refusing to let cruise ships in because they too have realized that too many people can change the entire ecology of an area. The Norwegian Fjords as well as Amsterdam are also now controlling the number of visitors they are receiving as the massive amounts of people overwhelm the systems in place to host them.

Also overwhelmed are the waterways where these massive ships travel. The largest passenger ship company in the world has been on probation for two years for dumping at sea. It has been fined many times for “continued violation of international environmental laws” citing dumps of sewage and food waste in Alaska’s Glacier Bay to the Bahamas and Haiti. Even though a $40,000,000 fine was paid, there are continued instances of dumping.

So, what is the solution? We all want to see these great wonders of the world! Instead of going in the “high” season when everyone else is visiting, go any other time of the year. Crowds are less, pollution is less, and hosts are less harried. For those who love cruises, choose the smaller ships and perhaps a river cruise. Travel wisely and preserve our world. It is worth seeing and visiting, but let’s not destroy it!

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

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PAGE 13

To the Class of 2019 Continued from page 13 4. Get involved with what you are passionate about.

I cannot stress this one enough. College is the time to discover who you truly are as a person, and the best way to do this is to dive deeper into those passions that you never were able to fully pursue in high school. You’ll make connections and meet your best friends this way! It is so meaningful to surround yourself with those who share similar values and interests as you.

5. Have fun, but don’t lose sight of what is important.

You should enjoy your freshman year. You have a clean slate and your first taste of true freedom! However, it is important to remember why you are there – to get your degree – so finding that balance between academic and social life, as well as maintaining your mental and physical health, is the key to your success. You are only a freshman once, and I promise it will be one of the most memorable years of your life! Don’t forget to enjoy it.

Kelsey Sauers is a 2018 Honor Graduate from Parkview High School and has completed her first year at Georgia Institute of Technology on the Dean’s List with a major in Neuroscience. She is also the Correspondence Chair for her sorority, Zeta Tau Alpha.

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Pet Perch: Dog Friendly Restaurant Etiquette for Fido

By Terie Hansen With the weather warming up, opportunities to bring Fido along for the ride increases. Taking your dog out for social experiences is a great way to bond with your dog as well as put into action those commands you’ve been teaching him.

Can you picture yourself hanging out on the patio of a great restaurant, sipping Mojitos while your dog lounges calmly at your side? Sound nice, right?

Here is the proper etiquette to keep in mind if you are thinking of bringing Fido along: Friendly, Social Dogs Welcome: Don’t bring your dog if he or she is nervous around other people or dogs. You won’t have a good time, and neither will your pet.

Take a Hike: Taking your dog for a walk prior to your eatery outing will burn off excess energy, which will result in a calmer, more well-mannered dog.

Potty First, Pizza Second: Even if your dog went potty at home, ALWAYS have them go potty just before you enter the restaurant. This minimizes the chance for accidents. No one wants to see that while they’re eating!

Silence is Golden: Barking dogs are distracting and disturbing to others. You may be asked to leave.

Four on the Floor: Do not allow your dog to sit in a chair or on your lap, or to jump up with front paws on the table. Remember, others must eat at that table after you! Dog hair and dirty feet are not appetizing.

Choose Low Traffic Seating: While you love your dog (and anyone else’s), others may not. A dog-friendly establishment does not mean that everyone there wants to be greeted with a wet nose and a crotch sniff as they walk by. Sitting in a low traffic area helps your dog remain calmer overall.

Bringing Fido can be enjoyable for you and enriching for your dog. Just be sure to be courteous and respectful of the establishment and of the other patrons around you.

Terie Hansen is Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More information at www.gooddogcoaching.com .

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Lane, Resource and Marketing Coordinator. The ladies told me that each senior citizen is assessed before being accepted into the program, as a requirement of the ARC funding. They are questioned about aspects of their lives such as food availability, general health and mobility, and other quality-of-life factors. More than 400 seniors are served through this congregate programming (meaning, inside the physical locations). Another 450 receive home-delivered meals as well as respite home-making services, transportation and care management for those who have a need, and even food for companion pets. Over 39,000 meals are served each year through the senior centers. Also, more than 1,000 meals were served to companion pets in 2018.

Seniors are offered a 5-day program in Buford, Lawrenceville, Norcross, and Centerville locations. They arrive either by their own means, via a caregiver, or may partake in the transport service offered by the program. Attendees are provided a continental breakfast upon arriving at 9 a.m. and can then enjoy social activities, exercise, nutrition education, and field trips that are scheduled immediately afterwards as part of the evidence-based programming. Various classes geared toward health and education include drumming, dancing (line or belly dancing), tai chi, yoga, Zumba, crafting, cooking, etc. Social activities offered include competitive rounds of Rummikub or billiards, music, sharing word finds, or simply catching up with friends.

Participants enjoy hot lunches served at noon, which not only meet the state’s nutritional standards, but also personal preferences and dietary needs.

Gail and Regina have discovered, through interviews with members of the program that autonomy and social interaction are the two most important needs senior citizens have. Both are crucial to their overall well-being, along with a sense of community and belonging to something bigger than themselves. In fact, seniors are even transported to the grocery store once per week to do their shopping, at their own cost.

The satellite programs host 3-day programs. Grayson meets on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays at the Grayson Senior Center building. The Snellville program meets on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at the Betty McMichael Room at Briscoe Park. These satellites represent a collaborative effort between the municipalities and the county to serve seniors in these communities and those who were on a waiting list for the Centerville program.

Gwinnett senior citizens have not been forgotten, thanks to amazing professionals like Gail and Regina and the many other staff members who do their part to make sure these programs run smoothly and effectively. Their ultimate goal is to keep Gwinnett senior citizens aging in place and thriving rather than simply surviving.

More information via Regina Miller at 770-822-8832.

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Magnolia Marketing Mama Continued from page 9

Washington Farms Says Farewell

her services.

As word got out about Amanda’s talents, she gained more clients and Magnolia Marketing was born! With a small, hard-working team, Magnolia Marketing now services a wide variety of commercial clients by managing their website designs, branding needs, social media presence, and more.

The mission of Magnolia Marketing is to support small businesses in whatever professional needs they have. Some clients choose to let the Magnolia team handle all or certain pieces of their marketing and social media presence, but Amanda also strives to empower other entrepreneurs by educating them with tools and resources to handle most of their own marketing tasks. She encourages each one to become the face of their business, and states that it’s a crucial aspect of the branding process.

Working with female entrepreneurs and helping them build their brands is a great passion of Amanda’s. She knows first-hand how challenging it can be to balance raising a family and contributing monetarily to the household; and while she firmly believes a mother’s first priority is to her family, she teaches women that it’s okay to do other things that don’t revolve around the kids. “I want my children to know that they are undoubtedly the most important thing in my life, but they are not the only important thing.”

Amanda goes even further to help female entrepreneurs by offering videos, tips, and strategies for social media marketing in her Facebook Group, Motivated Marketing with MMG, which currently has almost 700 followers. She hosts local networking meetings and also partners with the Walton Chamber of Commerce to offer social media training.

As if all that weren’t enough to keep her busy, Amanda and her husband, a U.S. Air Force veteran and fellow entrepreneur, actively support the Veteran community, particularly Vetlanta and VEO, which offer job opportunities and resources to help homeless veterans rebuild their lives. These programs are near and dear to their hearts, as they feel that meeting the needs of our country’s veterans ought to be a top priority for everyone.

Amanda operates with an abundance mindset. She believes that women don’t need to compete with one another in business or life in general, for we each have our own special talents and gifts, and there are plenty of goodness and blessings to go around. When people see the name Magnolia Marketing, Amanda hopes that not just high-quality and innovative digital marketing come to mind, but also professional support and development for entrepreneurs, with a personal touch.

More information at www.themagnoliamarketinggroup.com

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 Continued on page 18

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PAGE 15

Cheerleading: Teaching Hard Work and Soft Skills

By K. Coats Recently, the Green Curtain Players at Grayson High School (GHS) performed their spring musical, Bring It On. The play is about competing cheerleading squads from different schools with an overarching socio-economic theme. I soon found myself identifying with a couple of students who were mocking the cheerleaders, and I thought, “That’s me.” And it got me thinking about the cheerleaders I knew in my life.

The ones from my high school experience weren’t like the stereotypical ones. They were in my AP classes or going to the local college via joint enrollment. They’ve gone on to work in highly successful careers.

The ones I’d known as a teacher were the same pattern – brilliant and motivated. In fact, I’ve met very few, if any, who fit into the cheerleader stereotype.

The Green Curtain Players took their show to next level by getting advice, guidance, and participation from the local school cheerleaders, specifically Gracie Oney-Hansen. A six-year veteran of cheerleading, Gracie graduated from GHS this past May. When asked where she thought the cheerleader stereotype originated, she responded, “I don’t know where the cheerleader stereotype came from. It may have been true in one circumstance and just kind of stuck. In my experience, some of the cheerleaders I have met are very, very smart. Many cheerleaders are some of the nicest people I have ever met.” So instead of focusing on the stereotype itself, Gracie was able to offer insight on some of the more important lessons that are a byproduct of being on a cheerleading squad.

The obvious claim would be the physical element, but that short-changes the larger, more important skill – perseverance. Learning not to give up and learning to work hard for delayed results and gratification are beneficial life skills. For cheerleaders, this knowledge can come from those 7-8 hours a week of practice during their main season and the smaller practices in the off season. “On game days, we get here at 5 for a 7:30 kickoff time,” Gracie said. “An average practice entails conditioning, running, practicing old cheers, and learning new cheers and stunts.” This skill can translate to the workplace by either having an employee who is able to maintain focus on long projects, consider alternate solutions to problems instead of giving up, and be a reliable

PAGE 16

leader who can be trusted to follow through on important matters. It would also lend itself well to those who wish to work for themselves or run their own business. A business owner who doesn’t possess perseverance or who doesn’t understand delayed gratification won’t be in business for long.

Cheerleading also teaches the skill of being able to work as a group.

We’ve all dealt with the frustration of having to work with someone who “does not play well with others.” It’s maddening. Well, if your co-worker was a cheerleader, you’d be in luck. That cooperative attitude goes beyond working to ensure no one is dropped during a stunt.

Gracie pointed out, “Being on a squad is like a family. We sometimes have our differences, but through retreats and the memories we make throughout the season, we have all grown very close.” Learning to maneuver and work together with a large group of people to produce a quality finished product or routine is not an easy task, but it’s one that a cheerleading squad needs to master in order to achieve success. And in some cases, learning those leadership skills is more structured and deliberate. Gracie explained, “We also prioritize leadership and learning how to improve our leadership skills. We have a leadership council that you apply for, and Coach [Joanna] Root selects one to six girls from every grade. We meet once a month to learn leadership skills, and we also meet for community service once a month as well.”

Passion isn’t always presented as a skill in the workplace, but we all know how much having a passion for one’s job changes perspective and satisfaction. Cheerleading requires buy-in from the squad. In order to cheer and get a crowd involved, they must be the faces and spirit of their school. They learn how to represent an organization bigger than themselves and to help promote that organization. “Some of the benefits of being a cheerleader are getting to show school spirit as often as you can, and being a part of such a large part of the school and community,” Gracie said. “We get the opportunity to be involved in something we love, represent our community, and show off our [school] spirit.” Any business owner can understand the value in employee buy-in, and this is especially important for higher positions as well; directors and CEOs must all have passion and buy-in for what their company entails and how that company is represented.

When asked what Gracie would tell parents whose child was interested in the sport of cheerleading, she had lots of advice. She said, “I would tell them that cheerleading is a great way to get involved and show school spirit. The memories we create are as important as the skills we Continued on page 21

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SE Gwinnett Co-Op: More than a Food Pantry

By Beth Volpert Johansen While many programs exist to provide a helping hand to those in need, the SE Gwinnett Co-Op, located in Grayson, strives to benefit its volunteers as well as those seeking help. “People come to us from right here in our own neighborhood,” says Director Laura Drake. “Our children go to school together and don’t even know that some of their friends go hungry.”

The idea of the co-op is deeply rooted in Laura’s faith that all things are possible through God. Her witness, and the witness of those who serve alongside her, has garnered a following on social media that has resulted in unprecedented growth. This year, the City of Grayson will donate the proceeds of its annual charitable concert event Gimme Shelter to the co-op. The concert provides a synergy that brings the community together for a night of music, food, and neighbors. “We chose the SE Gwinnett Co-Op because not only are they at our back door, but they fulfill the needs of so many of our residents,” says Community Development Director Amanda Leftwich. “They have an amazing staff and tireless volunteers who always greet those in need with a smiling face and a willing heart.”

With donation hours Monday through Saturday, the staff and volunteers of the co-op run what equates to a small grocery store. People from all walks of life volunteer their time each week to sort and categorize donations, pull orders, and keep the co-op running smoothly. “We have twin sisters, married couples, widowers, single parents, retirees, students, athletes, and some very special helpers with special needs among our volunteers,” says Laura. “I just love and appreciate each one of them. They all bring something wonderful here.”

Two very special dedicated workers, Anthony Kirkpatrick and Joseph Conlin, put their all into each workday. “Mrs. Laura is awesome!” says Joseph. “She is always helping me with my job in the pantry.” The co-op provides jobs for Special Needs Volunteers from Hi Hope Center and the Special Needs School of Gwinnett. “It is a big part of what we do,” says Laura.

“Everybody has something to give.”

The co-op is also popular with married couples seeking a place to volunteer their time and energies. “We have a ton of married couples who work with us,” says Laura. “The co-op is a Continued on page 19

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Learning Lessons Continued from page 9 is like learning to read, write, or do math problems – it requires the proper materials or equipment. For infants, soft blocks and rattles promote fine motor skills like pinching and grasping, and toddlers may use shape sorters, puzzles, and nesting toys to develop fine motor skills. Balls of various sizes will help preschoolers practice gross motor skills like throwing, rolling, catching, and kicking. Regardless of your child’s age, be sure that the equipment is soft, lightweight, and age-appropriate. Watch how your child naturally plays with the equipment and feel free to change the game to help him or her enjoy the activity.

Promote a feeling of success for your child. Skills are acquired incrementally and children who do not experience success have a tendency to lose interest and quit trying. Try to create some easy victories for your child. For example, if he or she is not yet able to successfully throw and hit a target, encourage your child to move a little closer. Regardless of your child’s skill level, be a supportive coach and acknowledge effort with specific, encouraging comments.

Be active with your child. Rather than sending your child outside to play, be a role model and get some exercise at the same time by participating in games and other activities that require physical exertion. Easy and fun activities include: • Playing four-square or hopscotch, using sidewalk chalk to create the grid • Blowing bubbles then chasing them around the yard to see who can catch them • Playing lawn games like Red Light, Green Light • Running through the sprinklers, weather permitting When children come into the world, physical activity is at the very center of their lives. They are on a mission to learn to crawl, walk, run, throw, catch, and kick. Nurture that desire to be active that begins in infancy by playing with your child each day to ensure he or she develops a love for fitness and healthy habits for years to come.

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the bread with each other, and they shared the next batch with other classes and their teachers. Cooking experts were brought in, and the project was expanded to making jams, and then to making “bread and 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. “All of those academic skills are within the very sweet and meaningful projects that they did.”

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 Ms. Adams. “We want them to be ready for whatever they are going to do next and be excited about it.”

More information at https://turningsun.com

Washington Farms Says Farewell Continued from page 15 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 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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Our Town Gwinnett

By Bill Crane As a child in metro Atlanta elementary schools, and later in college, I was blessed to have studied under several gifted educators and teachers who made me a better person, as well as a stronger scholar. Just as my parents and family helped form me as a person, loving and gifted teachers helped to shape my mind and to build a lifelong desire for learning.

My oldest daughter, Barclay, is a teacher in Gwinnett County and has left her own indelible and lasting mark on 1st and 2nd graders. Beginning next fall, she will be promoted to the 4th grade. Barclay is following in the footsteps of her mother, Nancy, a fellow educator at Trip Elementary in Loganville.

My youngest child, Olivia, is following a path more like my own, with an elementary education in the DeKalb County School District. After some struggles at her previous school, we moved Olivia this past fall and she is now flying high as an Oak Grove Eagle. Olivia has developmental delays and Down syndrome, and is in a special education classroom setting that has been presided over for the past three decades by Mark Manganello. Mr. Mark has become both a leader and a fixture of the school and the community, completing his 31st year at Oak Grove this spring, and 40 years as an educator.

For much of that time, Mr. Mark has taught a multi-grade class, 3rd grade through 5th, joined by several para-professionals. He navigates the learning disabilities and challenges specific to each child, modifying his or her grade level curriculum while also rewarding and recognizing the spark of learning in each individual.

It’s a joy to watch Mr. Mark’s rapport grow with each student – from educator to friend to life mentor. I have watched children no longer matriculating at Oak Grove walk toward Mr. Mark with a beaming smile, ready for a life update and probably a hug. This teacher makes connections with his charges that appear to be life-long.

As we watched Olivia’s mind open and rapidly expand, her vocabulary nearly doubled, cognition and reading comprehension more than tripled, and her grasp of other subjects, ranging from social studies to math and science, are rolling clearly into view and reality. There is little doubt where to lay the credit – Mark Manganello has created and maintains a safe and supportive learning environment, where it is both okay to be different and where learning at all levels is celebrated.

A year ago, when I would pick Olivia up from her old school, I often found her walking toward me with head bowed and the body language of defeat. Now she runs toward me, with head up and a smile on her face. I know that the lessons of this classroom and school are more than what’s coming off the pages of a textbook or an online lesson.

Oak Grove has an incredible organic garden within its courtyard, tended by an extremely gifted and active volunteer, Kendall Xides. Ms. Xides presides over the green-space, and children across all grade levels help to tend the garden. Noting how Mr. Mark has for decades played the unintentional role of Johnny Appleseed – planting the seeds of learning in the minds of so many children who otherwise are often discarded by our public education system – we wanted to find an appropriate way to thank and recognize his legacy. So now that little Oak Grove garden has its first apple tree.

It is our hope that this tree will bear fruit for the teachers and students at Oak Grove for many generations to come, just as the seeds of learning which Mark Manganello long ago planted so lovingly continue bearing their own fruit. And Mark’s passion for special education has also taken root in his own family, as his daughter Jennifer also teaches special education at Oak Grove.

So, thanks Mr. Mark from so many grateful parents, family, and friends. I hope you find your coming semi-retirement as pleasant and rewarding as you have found your decades in the classroom.

Crane is the senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns the full-service communications consulting firm, CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com

SE Gwinnett Co-Op Continued from page 17 place of high romance!” One such couple, Nedbert and Shirline Daubon make time to serve others and, in turn, their time together is enhanced.

Service to the community, through ongoing donations and fundraising efforts is what keeps the co-op going year-round. In addition to the Gimme Shelter Concert, area churches and civic organizations strive to collect food each month to keep the pantry shelves stocked.

“Summertime is particularly hard,” says Laura. “The burden of when children don’t eat at school becomes very heavy.” The months of June and July will see families come twice as often and receive approximately twenty days of food.

With the pantry seeing such an increased need, it is vital that the co-op be an active and vibrant part of the community. Offering food and other assistance is paramount, but the co-op fills more than pantry shelves. It is also houses a place for community servants to fill their hearts and souls by providing a place to volunteer. In all, it is a win-win for SE Gwinnett’s residents.

More information at https://www.segwinnettcoop.org/

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Crane’s Corner: A Special Thanks for a Special Educator

PAGE 19

Going Beyond the Ribbon with Bobbie Menneg

By Traci Sanders

GRAYSON Summer/Fall 2019 Free Concerts & Movie 06/22

Lanier Jazz

7:00pm

07/13

Young Elvis & Blue Suedes

7:00pm

07/26 & 07/27

07/27 07/28

08/03 08/09

Shakespeare in the Park

6:00pm

Christmas in July

10am-4pm

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Shakespeare in the Park

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

Fly Betty Band Movie Under the Stars ALL AGES WELCOME! Coolers, blankets and chairs welcome!

Times subject to change.

For Weather Updates:

PAGE 20

3:00pm

7:00pm 8:30pm

It’s a six-letter word that no one wants to hear; yet according to the American Cancer Society, one in three Americans will get some form of cancer in their lifetime. The most common type is breast cancer, with 271, 270 new cases expected in the United States in 2019. It’s also the second leading cause of death in women.

However, many women survive breast cancer, some more than once in their lives. Such is the case for one Lawrenceville woman named Bobbie Menneg. Bobbie was diagnosed with a rare form of breast cancer called Triple Negative about eight years ago. She underwent two surgeries, six rounds of chemo, and thirty-three radiations, and is now cancer-free.

Bobbie chose to fight her cancer all the way, and then decided to turn her experience and victory into a resource for others who are dealing with various forms of cancer. She started her journey volunteering at events such as Relay for Life and the Susan G. Komen walk, but she realized that there were women in her own town who needed more immediate help.

Bobbie wanted to find a way to make a more personal impact on others, so she created a nonprofit (501c3) organization called Beyond the Ribbon, whose mission is “to advocate for support and resources beyond the diagnosis of cancer to educate, inspire hope, cultivate awareness, and empower individuals throughout their journey and beyond.”

The organization has a Board of Directors in place – all of whom have been affected by cancer in some form – but Bobbie takes her position to another level by personally visiting the homes of cancer patients to support them through the physical and emotional parts of their journeys in whatever way she can. Sometimes that means taking meals to families, washing their dishes while she’s visiting, and even holding back their hair when they are sick from the chemo effects.

When I asked Bobbie to describe how it feels to go through these symptoms during cancer treatment, she replied, “It’s like being thrown onto a freight train going a hundred miles per hour, then once treatment stops, you’re on your own. It’s almost as if the cancer treatment and appointments are your security blanket. When it’s over, you don’t really know what to do next.”

One way that Beyond the Ribbon addresses the immediate needs for these people is through a program called Jane’s Closet, which distributes short-term provisions of non-perishable foods, gift cards, gas cards, and financial support for bills. Without this type of assistance, some patients and their families will go without proper nourishment, shelter, and medical care.

Another internal component of Beyond the Ribbon is called Journey Bags, which are basically care packages that consist of comfort items such as blankets, journal and pen, water bottle, lip balm, hand sanitizer, hard candies, and a handwritten note of encouragement.

Bobbie’s greatest joy comes in helping people navigate the next steps in their lives and helping them learn to not live like victims but rather like victors. Even though Bobbie orchestrates several fundraisers to aid her in this mission, she continually pours a great deal of her own money into this organization to make all these things happen.

Bobbie also created a Facebook support group called Circle of Friends, comprised of previvors (those who are taking preventative measures for cancer), survivors, patients, and nurses.

This is a group where anyone affected by cancer can receive emotional support and learn about resources to assist them in their personal journey with whatever form of cancer they are experiencing.

One local woman, Aura-Leigh Sanders, said, “Bobbie’s work to help cancer patients and their families in our community is so important. When I started my journey as a cancer pre-vivor almost two years ago, she was right there with resources and support whenever I needed it, and I am so grateful for her. She knows firsthand what it’s like to fight cancer. She is truly amazing for what she does and what she gives to so many people in Gwinnett.”

Even though Bobbie pounds the pavement nearly every day of the week, building relationships with local business owners and asking for their support, funds need to be constantly replenished and every little bit helps provide the personal and financial support that cancer patients and survivors need.

When I asked Bobbie for one word or phrase that she would like to share on behalf of those affected by cancer, she simply replied, “Don’t treat me differently and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Cancer is something I have, it’s not who I am.”

Private donations are always accepted and Bobbie arranges frequent events for the locals to enjoy some entertainment and support this worthy cause.

More information at www.beyondtheribboninc.org

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

Our Town Gwinnett

Soccer is for “The Birds”

By Traci Sanders If you mention the word soccer in Loganville or surrounding areas, chances are you’ll also hear the words Bluesprings and David or Debbie Bird because these words have become synonymous over the past twenty-three years.

Bluesprings is one of the few true community soccer clubs in Georgia. It is family owned and operated by the Birds, whose vision today is the same as when it first began in 1996 – bringing a quality, fun soccer program to Loganville, where there’s a place for everyone. David and Debbie have long been a part of the Loganville community, and they use soccer as their vehicle to spread their message of faith and fun.

Prior to becoming a soccer club, Bluesprings was a day camp for adults and children with special needs, which was started by David’s mom and dad, Frank and Esther Bird. David and Debbie worked at the day camp and during the Olympic Games, which were hosted in Athens, Georgia.

David and Debbie volunteered to sell sodas in the stands during the games. After watching the US Women’s Soccer Team win the Gold Medal in the Olympics that year, the couple decided to bring soccer to Loganville. Bluesprings Youth Soccer started with one field and about one hundred kids in August 1996.

To date, there are more than 90 teams at Bluesprings! Kids as young as three and up to age eighteen (high school seniors) enjoy recreational soccer at these fields. Adult leagues are also available at Creekside Sports Center, an expansion of the Bluesprings Association. The Birds strive to provide a family-friendly environment where all generations can enjoy learning about and playing soccer.

Kickeroos is a program that introduces soccer fundamentals to kids ages three to five. It is run

by Bluesprings coaching directors, and the emphasis is on having fun with the sport. Parents are encouraged to also attend and learn the basics of soccer while spending quality time with their little ones.

Kids ages five to eighteen can enjoy recreational soccer, led by volunteer coaches such as my husband and myself. He has coached twenty-six seasons with Bluesprings, and I have personally coached about six seasons. All three of our children have played at Bluesprings from a young age, and now one is a referee and the other is a coach. Bluesprings has been a huge part of our life for the past seventeen years.

For players who enjoy a challenge, Bluesprings offers Liberty Academy and Liberty Select soccer programs. Players can improve their skills and participate in a more competitive environment. The Liberty Program is a year-long commitment (August-May), and players are coached

by Liberty Soccer coaches.

The referees go through an official referee program hosted by Bluesprings and led by Rick Boykin. Rick has been a coach, and now Referee Assignor, since 1997. Anyone with a soccer background ages twelve and older can join the Referee Program as a Club Referee and receive training and mentorship from Rick and through US Soccer Referee Courses.

All coaches for Bluesprings are volunteers. A majority of them volunteer, or as in my case, are volunteered by their spouses, simply to coach their own children. Some high school players also volunteer to coach, and they make wonderful role models for younger players. Coaches for Liberty Soccer are selected by Directors Steve Keiss and Samantha Snow. All Liberty Coaches complete Coaching Education Courses through US Soccer and United Soccer Coaches.

Between assistant coaches and head coaches, Bluesprings boasts over 100 volunteers. A handful of staff is paid; however, most of the operations are handled by David and Debbie Bird and the many other volunteers. In fact, not many people know that David is the mysterious man seen circling the fields in a golf cart on any given Saturday, snapping photos of the kids in action, and then uploading them to the Bluesprings Facebook page for parents and players to enjoy. All of this is done at no charge!

To add even more value to the community, Bluesprings and Creekside also host Awesome Santa every December, a program where they offer free pictures and visits with Santa for kids with special needs. Creekside hosts Gwinnett County Special Olympics each spring. Bluesprings also donates resources to assist local charities and benefit families directly.

If you’re looking for an environment where your child can expend some energy, learn the ins and outs of soccer, and experience family fun, consider Bluesprings Youth Soccer Association.

More information at www.bysasoccer.com or www.cscindoor.com

Our Town Gwinnett

Cheerleading Continued from page 16 learn, and we have created a Grayson Cheerleading family.” Many high school students attribute a strong support network among their peers as a major part of their success. Gracie continued, “We are role models in our community, and we volunteer in our community through Relay for Life, youth cheerleading camps, and many other organizations.” She did give a shout out to her own squad as well, showing that investment in teamwork and leadership when she claimed, “Grayson cheerleaders are some of the kindest, sweetest, smartest, and overall best people I have ever met. I have met my closest friends through the cheerleading program, and I am so thankful that I have had the opportunity to be a part of the sport I love so much for as long as I have. It is truly a blessing.”

So there you have it. The cheerleader stereotype has been debunked for this old cynic. Not only is it more than just waving around pompoms, cheerleading teaches squad members passion, buy-in, cooperation, leadership, and perseverance – skills that set squad members up for success later in life.

Gracie Oney-Hansen is a member of the Grayson High School Cheerleading team. More information at http://www.gaasports.org/.

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PAGE 21

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