Gwinnett Splashes Worldwide Color Continued from page 10 businesses. “When you fly over now, you see all these brightly colored homes, crime is down, businesses are attracting tourists. Paint makes such a difference.” Another of the great effects paint has on remote areas is with the schools. Emotion is heard in Rony’s voice as he tells of a school in Honduras that was so run down that parents had stopped sending their children. Once the school was painted, more improvements followed and the graduation rate began to go up. “Paint improves the conditions of the building and the way the community looks at it.” When Rony is asked about how Global Paint is able to take someone’s leftover paint from Gwinnett County in Georgia and do the most good with it all around the world, his response is hardly complicated. “I came to this country, I had an idea, I went to the people in the county who I thought might help me with that idea – and they did,” explains Rony. “I knew these people in waste management meant business, so I took this chance and worked so hard and we were able to do it. We were able to collect paint, recycle it, and package it for use where it is needed.” “Rony and Global Paint for Charity are definitely a bright light, both locally and abroad – changing the world one color at a time,” says Schelly. “I am truly blessed to call him a community partner and a friend.” Each year, Global Paint for Charity holds paint collection events. The next major collection event will take place in May at the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to collect paint for recycling. Monetary donations are also needed to pay the shipping costs as well. When asked why it is less expensive to ship recycled paint instead of buying it overseas, Rony explains that it is very expensive in many of the places Global Paint for Charity serves. “Most people make less than a dollar a day,” says Rony. “Paint can cost anywhere from $30 a gallon or more. It is something they cannot afford, but does so much good. It lifts people up.” Each gallon makes a huge difference in Gwinnett and all around the world. So take a look in the basement or garage for your unused paint and help Rony and Global Paint for Charity splash some world-wide color. More information at www.globalpaints.org
Keeping the Smiles Coming By Kristen Eleveld Choosing a dentist isn’t always an easy decision. You need a qualified dentist who is conveniently located, and who places a priority on making patients feel at home. If this sounds like all the boxes on your dentist checklist, you can stop searching, because the perfect answer is waiting for you at Smiles by Simmons, where two of Gwinnett’s best dentists are ready to make your smile bright. Dr. John Simmons grew up in the Atlanta area, and has called Gwinnett home for over three decades. Shortly after graduating from dental school in the early 80s, Dr. Simmons joined the Navy and practiced as a dentist there. Three years later, he found himself in Snellville at the recommendation of a friend who thought a local dental group would be a good fit for Dr. Simmons’ expertise. Eventually, Dr. Simmons discovered that he had both a talent and a passion for cosmetic dentistry and opened his own practice to help his patients find their best smile. Now, Dr. Simmons is one of only nine dentists in Georgia to be accredited by the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. But for Dr. Simmons, the biggest accomplishment is giving patients a positive experience filled with excellent care. Continued on page 20
We have fun learning. Continuing to serve Brookwood, Camp Creek, Craig, Gwin Oaks, Knight and R.D. Head Elementary Schools. Serving our community since 2005.
Ages 6 weeks to 4 years old. We implement age appropriate Creative Curriculum in all classes. See our website for details.
Register Your Children Today!
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FIVE FORKS ACADEMY
(770) 982-2000
www.fiveforksacademy.com Our Town Gwinnett
3079 Five Forks Trickum Road Lilburn, GA 30047
AJW Enterprises Inc. DBA Five Forks Academy
Become an Advertising Partner: Email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049
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