MARCH 2020: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

MARCH 2020 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville

Up Close with Northside Hospital Gwinnett, see story on page 5.

9 10 19 22

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Tanisha Turner Catching Up with Camp Bow Wow in Lawrenceville Mentoring Matters in Gwinnett: Nury Castillo Crawford Sports Talk: Grayson High School Girls Soccer

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On the Cover: Keeping the Colon Rollin’: How One Local Hospital is Fighting Colorectal Cancer

By Kristen Eleveld When it comes to raising awareness for and treating colorectal cancer, Northside Hospital Gwinnett, formerly known as Gwinnett Medical Center, has always been among the frontrunners of those determined to make a difference. Between their specialized care and amazing staff, Northside Hospital Gwinnett has quickly become a name to know for patients seeking the best care available.

“We have an excellent staff that genuinely cares for each patient,” said Amy McEachin, who serves as the Cancer Support Manager and Oncology Data Center Manager for the hospital. “We care for the whole patient and not just a diagnosis of cancer.”

It’s easy to see that, for the Northside Hospital Cancer Institute and the cancer care team at Northside Hospital Gwinnett, finding the right treatment for each patient and educating the community as a whole on the ways they can keep themselves healthy is a top priority.

Events like Strollin’ 4 the Colon, an annual event hosted by the hospital, are designed to raise awareness of the statistics and symptoms of colorectal cancer, as well as celebrate cancer survivors and hear their stories.

While this year’s Strollin’ 4 the Colon event took place on March 1st, there are still plenty of ways to help the Gwinnett team raise awareness and funds. Amy recommends donating to the Gwinnett Medical Center Foundation. All the money raised will go toward assisting cancer patients with financial concerns.

More than anything, the team at Northside Hospital Gwinnett stresses that early detection is key – and so is preventative screening.

“Colon cancer can be treated if caught early!” said Reba O’Brien, who is the Clinical Manager for the GI Lab at Gwinnett. “Schedule your screening colonoscopy, don’t ignore symptoms, and remember that young adults are also at risk for developing colorectal cancer!”

Kim Neal, who is a colon cancer survivor as well as a Certified Bone Density Technologist at the hospital, emphasizes that procrastination of colon screenings can have serious conse-

quences. “At age 52, I decided to catch up on all my screening exams and at the same time get medical clearance for a total knee replacement that I also put off for several years,” Kim recalled. “To my surprise, 2 or 3 polyps were found and an area of abnormal cells, and the next stop was the operating room. Early detection saves lives.”

Everyone who works with the cancer care team agrees that it’s always wise to be safe instead of sorry – and that they are always available for questions or concerns. Indeed, it is the teamwork that happens behind the scenes that allows this group to provide such a high level of care for every cancer patient.

“At Northside Hospital Gwinnett, you will receive excellent care and be treated as family,” Amy said. “There is a sense of community within our hospital system, and it is evident in the care that we give.”

“I love that Northside Hospital Gwinnett still has the feel of a community hospital while offering our patients the most current treatment options,” added Reba.

Dr. David Armstrong, a colon and rectal surgeon at the hospital, said, “I think everyone should know that colorectal cancer can affect anyone, even those individuals that don’t have family history of colorectal cancer. Cancer does not discriminate.”

If you are unsure how to get started with your preventative screening, just give the team a call at 678-312-1000. They even offer a free ColoCARE kit that you can use at home to look for any early symptoms. You can request yours today at northside.com/colokit.

Remember – it’s never too late to start bettering your health. Get screened. Stay well.

More information at www.northside.com/gwinnett

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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 Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman

Feature Writers K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Ron Lambros Amy Ney Emily Rubin Traci Sanders

— 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 2020 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

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IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: Keeping the Colon Rollin’: How One Local Hospital is Fighting

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Colorectal Cancer 7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 7 Meet Young Actress Cady Walls 8 One on One with Snellville Mayor Barbara Bender 9 Community Member Spotlight: Meet Tanisha Turner 10 Doggone Amazing: Catching up with Camp Bow Wow in Lawrenceville 12 The Village Corner: Du bekommst eine Belohnung! (Translation: You’re in for a treat!)

13 Style and Flair: Vecoma at the Yellow River Gives Brides an Unforgettable Experience 14 JBF Business Media’s Atlanta Small Business Network 16 Learning Lessons: What Parents Need to Know about STEAM 18 Protecting Your Greatest Material Asset 19 Mentoring Matters in Gwinnett: Meet Nury Castillo Crawford 21 From Plastics to Parrots: Brenda Bean and Parrot Productions 22 Sports Talk: Grayson High School Girls Soccer 22 Burgers and Brews Week – Who Will Be the Burger Champ?

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From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

@RyanTSauers

Man, I love this time of the year. Spring is almost here.

We have had a lot of rain the past couple months; however, with a new season comes new beginnings. I look forward to more sunshine and warmer days. In the spring, the days are longer, and people are out later doing great things. There are so many positive things happening in the cities and communities we serve. There is simply no way I can list them all, but rest assured the change is real, amazing, and positive.

The world recently stopped, mourned, and celebrated the life of superstar Kobe Bryant and his beautiful daughter Gigi Bryant (among other precious lives) who were tragically taken from this earth in an instant. How could people who were just living their everyday lives (with friends and family) be taken from us so suddenly? People who were so young, vibrant, and healthy.

I write this to remind us that life and death are real, and it does not matter if you are healthy or sick; young or old. There simply are no guarantees. Not one of us knows how many days, months, or years we have left on this earth. Our time is a gift and what we do with it matters.

We must live with a spirit of thankfulness and gratitude. We can get distracted and focus on things that do not matter. I say this to myself and to you... let it go. Such things are NOT life and death and simply do not matter. Do you want to make your time on this earth count and create a legacy to make things better for others? I hope so, as we all have a legacy. The question is what people remember about our lives – and how they define our legacy.

I encourage each of you to Keep Pushing Forward (KPF) no matter what you are facing in life. I hope you will find the best in others and seek to make them laugh and smile. It makes a difference. My hope is you will wake up and deliberately choose to focus on others and make another person’s life great by their having met you.

In short, I am thankful for the Our Town Gwinnett community. I wish you a wonderful March. Make your time count, laugh, and enjoy some warm weather and sunshine. As always, thank you for continuing with us on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

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By Emily Rubin Cady Walls is a 14-year-old actress who has been in music videos, local theater productions, student films, and an episode of a Disney Channel TV series.

She started theater acting when she was five years old and screen acting when she was ten, and she also dances and sings in her band Quality Rated. As an online student, her schedule is flexible and allows her to film and audition during the school day.

Cady has appeared in short films such as Fuzzite Fighters and Somewhere In Between, and plays a younger version of a main character in an upcoming web series The Naturals that was filmed in Boston.

Cady made her appearance on TV in an episode of the Disney Channel series Bizaardvark where she played the kazoo with her nose while beatboxing.

“The feeling that I was going to be on a Disney Channel show was insane,” Cady said.

“I got to see how the Disney studio sets were set up, and I got to meet a bunch of Disney Channel stars, so that was just a really awesome experience.”

Between her screen acting gigs, Cady performs in theater productions. Theater is a great way to keep her skills fresh, and she loves it.

In her theater career, Cady has performed in Matilda and Newsies, among other theater Continued on page 16

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One on One with Snellville Mayor Barbara Bender

By Traci Sanders I recently interviewed Mayor Barbara Bender to learn more about the woman who has brought about so many wonderful changes in the Snellville community.

After some friends encouraged her to run for an open council seat, Barbara did some research about the city. She saw a study that showed an area with the potential to be developed into a downtown, something Snellville didn’t have yet. Her excitement about making this a reality is what inspired her. Barbara was first elected in November 2005 as a council member. She was re-elected in 2009 and resigned her seat in 2011 and ran an unsuccessful campaign for mayor. She continued to stay involved working with two non-profits, one that encouraged entrepreneurship in Snellville and one that built the Snellville Veterans Memorial. In 2013 Barbara was re-elected as a council member and served until being appointed mayor in January 2019 to fill the remaining term of Mayor Tom Witts. Barbara was unopposed in her bid for mayor in November, and will serve a four-year term.

Barbara’s influence on the community was evident even before her election as mayor. The city of Snellville signed a development agreement in August of 2019 to build The Grove at Snellville Towne Center, a document she had been bringing to fruition since first being elected in 2005. The city expects to break ground on this project in June 2020.

Barbara’s other previous accomplishments include the Snellville Farmers Market and Community Garden and the Snellville Spirit Magazine. She also had a hand in the improvements at T.W. Briscoe Park and the completion of Oak Road Park. Barbara worked with other city officials to increase housing options for the senior population and took an active

role in encouraging entrepreneurial startups within the city.

Community is always at the heart of Barbara’s goals and projects. As a thirty-four-year resident of Snellville, everything she does encourages engagement within the city. “Snellville went from a small town where everyone knew everyone, to a larger bedroom community where people lost track of each other,” she said. “We wanted to bring back the hometown feel we lost in the growth, so we created Snellville Tourism and Trade Association to offer events that will bring our people back together.” This group has been very successful in implementing fun events that unite the community and foster a large volunteer base in the city.

Barbara’s love of family is what drives her to create a family-like feel within the Snellville community. She moved from Baltimore, Maryland to Lilburn in 1971 when her father was transferred for his job with Western Electric. Barbara graduated from Parkview High School in Lilburn and married Greg Bender, with whom she just celebrated their 35th anniversary.

Greg and Barbara have two grown children. Barbara’s family is very supportive of her career.

“They are very understanding of the meetings and events I need to attend,” she said. Barbara also helps local families through her CPA firm, which she established four years ago.

Barbara would like people to know that Snellville is a welcoming community that is working hard to remain a place where people want to live, work, and raise a family. “We have great amenities,” she explained, “like city-owned T.W. Briscoe Park, a wonderful medical facility at Eastside Medical Center, our Community Garden, and many events that bring families together to have fun and make memories, while also offering a better quality-oflife experience. The Grove at Snellville Towne Center will add to that quality of life with additional gathering space and a new Gwinnett County library within walking distance to downtown. Also in the works is Greenway Trails that will connect all the city’s parks to the Towne Center and the Gwinnett County Trails system.”

It’s apparent that Snellville is blessed to have a mayor with such strong familial ties and roots. Barbara’s pride for her city is evident in her acts while in office as well as her excitement when she talks about the community and its people.

“We have a lot going on in Snellville,” she added, “so come see us. We’d love to show you around.”

More information at https://www.snellville.org/mayor-council

May you live as long as you want, And never want as long as you live .

– Irish Blessing

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Our Town Gwinnett

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Tanisha Turner

By Our Town Staff This month we are highlighting Tanisha Turner, owner/operator of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. She is a regular contributor of parenting articles to Our Town Gwinnett Magazine and shares her recipe for operating a successful childcare center.

Turner is married with three sons, all prior Primrose students. She has been in the education field for thirty-four years, operating her center for the past seventeen years. With bachelor’s degrees in education and sociology and a master’s degree in educational leadership, she delivers high quality educational childcare to her children. Turner is active in the Grayson United Methodist Church’s Marriage Ministry, Married.4.Life. A certified yoga instructor and a member of the service sorority, Delta Sigma Theta, Turner loves to travel, and is an involved member of our community.

“Science shows that the majority of a child’s brain is hard-wired by the age of five,” Turner said. “Therefore, being engaged in a quality program during their informative years is so beneficial.” She feels that Primrose’s Balanced Learning approach including purposeful play and nurturing guidance encourages curiosity, creativity, confidence, and compassion in their students. This is a major contributor to her school’s success. Primrose also teaches their children good character and life skills that will take them into adulthood. “Our parents understand and appreciate this time-tested approach to learning and realize the importance of the excellent foundation we are building for their child,” added Turner.

Turner recognizes the critical roll teachers play in the classroom. Hiring quality teachers is only the first step. She says it is also vital to provide training, resources, and support to help them be successful. Many of her teachers have longevity with Primrose. She attributes this to creating a positive work environment, making sure her staff knows that they are appreciated. Turner provides free snacks and beverages in the break room, regularly hosts teacher appreciation events, routinely compliments her staff on their hard work and efforts, and offers a comprehensive benefits package.

Building and maintaining a strong and collaborative parent partnership is crucial for running a successful school. During the weekdays a child may spend more time at school than at home. Primrose provides detailed daily online updates on activities their child is engaged in, as well as pictures on a secure site. This gives parents the peace of mind that their child

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is safe, happy, learning, and having fun every day. They also receive weekly online school updates. “Parents often tell management how warm and welcoming our school feels and how friendly everyone is,” said Turner. “They love that every teacher knows and cares about every child, whether that child is in their class or not.” Additionally, Turner shows regular appreciation of her parents with special treats such as Breakfast on the Go, morning gourmet coffee/ tea during the winter months, fresh baked cookies during afternoon pickup, date nights, and many other activities for them to enjoy and utilize.

Turner takes an active hands-on approach in her school to ensure that excellence is achieved every day. With happy children, a motivated and upbeat staff, and grateful parents, her winning formula has helped position her as a leader in educational childcare in Gwinnett County.

More information at PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com

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Doggone Amazing: Catching up with Camp Bow Wow in Lawrenceville

By Kristen Eleveld

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When it comes to finding the right care for your beloved pooch, you don’t have to look any further than Lawrenceville. Tucked away off Old Norcross Road, Camp Bow Wow has become a staple for many dog owners in the area. Between their leader, Kathy Stone, and an incredible staff whose love for their furry friends is unrivaled, Camp Bow Wow has distinguished itself as being the best of the best when it comes to caring for and boarding your dogs.

In fact, Camp Bow Wow is about to celebrate a major milestone for any business – in March, they will have been serving the Gwinnett area from this location for five years. And, in true Camp Bow Wow style, they are celebrating with nothing less than a party – or, as they have aptly named it, a “Yappy Hour.”

The entire community is invited to bring their dogs to this exciting event, which takes place on March 14th from 3:00 to 5:30 pm. Some of the highlights will include food and drinks for people and canines alike, along with the opportunity to have your dog’s photo taken by a professional pet photographer.

Of course, they are also giving you the opportunity to win some prizes, including a grand prize that will give your dog a free weekend and bath at camp.

“We want to be community-oriented as possible,” said Kathy of their goals with both this event and the camp’s direction in 2020. “Everyone is welcome to celebrate this milestone with us!”

If you want a reminder or just more information about the anniversary Yappy Hour, head to the Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville Facebook page at www.facebook.com/ CampBowWowLawrencevilleGA. This is also a great way to keep up with the camp and learn more about the comprehensive list of services they offer to your furry best friend.

While you’re enjoying the party, take some time to find the Bow Wow Buddies donation buckets, where you can give to help dogs in need. The Bow Wow Buddies Foundation is a non-profit organization that has created an opportunity to grant funds to dogs that are in dire need of medical services. Find out more about this organization – and how you can help – at www.bowwowbuddies.com.

Camp Bow Wow has spent their fifth year achieving some impressive honors. The Camp Bow Wow corporate office received the World Class Customer Service Award, which is Continued on page 22

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THE SHERIDAN

Downsizing & Maximizing Your Money TUESDAY, MARCH 10TH AT 11:00AM Come hear Jason Arnold with Edward Jones speak on downsizing and maximizing your assets while enjoying light refreshments and a tour.

Taste & Tours WEDNESDAYS AT NOON Reserve your seat at the table! Enjoy a fine dining experience prepared by Chef Richard followed by a tour of our community and apartment homes.

Happy Hour & Live Music THURSDAYS IN MARCH AT 4:00PM

Enjoy live music, drinks and fun conversations with our residents, followed by a tour of Snellville’s newest retirement community.

Yoga with Naomi FRIDAYS AT 10:15AM Find your Serenity with our Yoga Class hosted

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PAGE 11

The Village Corner: Du bekommst eine Belohnung! (Translation: You’re in for a treat!)

By Ron Lambros As you round the corner of East Ponce de Leon Avenue and get ready to head onto Main Street in Stone Mountain, you might just think you’re on the set of a Heidi movie.

Standing before you is a beautiful chalet, picturesque, and reminiscent of Southern Germany, Switzerland, or Bavaria. In reality, it’s The Village Corner Restaurant, Bakery, and Tavern, which has served authentic German dishes, pastries, and beer in the same location for almost forty-six years. And, true to German style, the meal portions are hearty, the atmosphere is genuine, and the service is warm and friendly.

“My mom and dad, Claus and Hilde, came to the United States from Germany years ago,” says 1st generation manager, Carl Friese. “They moved from Maryland to Atlanta and opened this restaurant when my father decided real estate wasn’t for him. It’s grown a lot over the years, but hasn’t changed its focus to serve authentic German cuisine the old-

fashioned way. They’re both still very involved with the restaurant. In fact, they even live upstairs.”

The Village Corner continues to be a family-run business to this day. Carl and his wife both work there, as do their children when they’re not away at college. “Honestly, everyone here is like family,” Friese said. And you sense it when you visit.

Walking through the front doors, you’re immediately greeted by the wonderful odor of fresh pastries and breads, made on-site daily. Each delicacy is meticulously created by Pastry Chef Paul Priaz, a Chicago transplant of over thirty years, who sees far more than just sweet temptations in each of his creations. “I’ve been here for over seven years, and I take great pride and pleasure in the process of making each and every one,” Priaz said. “It’s like art.

There’s a calming effect every time I bake. It’s almost like meditation.”

Carl Friese says the same thing about the food dishes the restaurant serves. A graduate of culinary school, he sees each menu item as an art form and loves the creative process that goes into each one.

Along with an incredible Sunday Brunch Buffet, and numerous continental and specialty items, The Village Corner has all the dishes you’d expect to see at a genuine German restauContinued on page 20

Experience the History

of Gwinnett County Veterans at the GWINNETT COUNTY VETERANS MEMORIAL MUSEUM Four rooms full of fascinating military exhibits and stories nge To arra r call p tou a grou rndt at Be David -9542.

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PAGE 12

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Style and Flair: Vecoma at the Yellow River Gives Brides an Unforgettable Experience

By Kristen Eleveld Planning a wedding, big holiday party, or even an important corporate gathering is no small task. You have to find the perfect venue – a place that is run by experts in the business who can offer you guidance and ideas while still allowing you to add your unique style to make the event your own. Luckily, for the citizens of Gwinnett, you can find all that and more in Snellville at Vecoma at the Yellow River.

Vecoma at the Yellow River is celebrating its 25th year as an official corporation, but the history of this gorgeous area extends all the way back to the 1800s. Now, mother-anddaughter team Judith Warren and Caroline Tucker run Vecoma with the efficiency and expertise that has become synonymous with the venue itself. As co-owners of this amazing site, both Judith and Caroline have worked to ensure that every event, from bar mitzvahs to quinceañeras, have every detail attended to in order to create a celebration that no one will soon forget.

“We hold over one hundred events a year and have hosted thousands of weddings, anniversary parties, birthday parties, celebrations of life, holiday parties, bar mitzvahs, and corporate meetings,” Caroline said. “We have even done baptisms in the river!”

With so many events taking place in such a short time, it may seem like it would be difficult to remember each of them individually. But for Caroline, the celebrations that stick out the most in her mind are the hundreds of themed weddings they have hosted.

“At Vecoma, brides can be creative and put their own unique flair on their wedding,” said Caroline. “Some of our most fun weddings have been ‘theme’ weddings. Our couples are so creative!”

Indeed, the couples who are tying the knot at Vecoma have certainly run the gamut of possibilities when it comes to choosing a theme to commemorate their special day. Caroline and Judith have seen it all, from Harry Potter, to Star Wars, to a variety of favorite Disney movies. They have even seen themes centered around lumberjacks and Harley Davidson motorcycles. At this point, it would be hard to surprise Caroline or Judith with any kind of theme a couple chooses – though they certainly invite you to try!

Hosting so many weddings has made the Vecoma team experts at noticing and predicting trends for upcoming ceremonies. For instance, Caroline noted that purple had a long reign as the most popular color to appear in a wedding. More recently, the colors burgundy and blue have been playing larger roles, and Caroline predicts that blue will stick around, while burgundy may be traded for icy shades of green instead.

Whatever your color choice, you don’t have to spend months thinking about it – Vecoma

at the Yellow River can put together a wedding with very short notice. In fact, when many couples found themselves unable to go through with their wedding plans after Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, the experts at Vecoma at the Yellow River were able to help several couples move their weddings to the Vecoma venue and create the wedding of their dreams.

If you’re not one for parties at a wedding, Vecoma has a plan for that, too. A growing trend for many couples is elopement, and Vecoma at the Yellow River offers “elopement packages” that allow you to have a gorgeous wedding in the perfect setting, without adding a reception at the end. These weddings take place Monday through Thursday, and have gained a lot of attention for its unique approach to planning a ceremony.

Finding the perfect venue for your wedding doesn’t have to be stressful – just call Vecoma at the Yellow River, tell them about your wedding dreams, and watch as their talented crew makes it all come true.

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PAGE 13

JBF Business Media’s Atlanta Small Business Network

By Beth Volpert Johansen Entrepreneurship and support of the small business is the heart and soul of JBF Business Media’s Atlanta Small Business Network. And at the center of JBF is the dynamic and forward-thinking pair, Jim and Bridget Fitzpatrick, who have taken the idea of entrepreneurship and nurtured it for the benefit of other entrepreneurs and small business owners throughout the Atlanta Metro Area. Headquartered in Gwinnett’s thriving Technology Park in Peachtree Corners, JBF fits right in alongside the ingenuity and creativity sparked by their professional and civic neighbors.

Providing a platform for all things small business is central to JBF Business Media’s offerings. “Bridget and I thought to create this platform together for small businesses,” says Jim. “We have developed a rich content resource for entrepreneurs and owners like us, and have enjoyed a warm reception here in the small business community.”

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The platform supports those with fledgling ideas all the way through to experts in various areas of business. With their own television program, The Atlanta Small Business Show, airing on CBS Channel 46 and Peachtree TV, the company is able to showcase their content for the benefit of anyone willing to watch and learn. Jim and Bridget liken the Atlanta Small Business Network to a toolbox for building a successful business.

Constantly expanding their panel of business experts, JBF covers topics such as: Branding, Training Tips, Marketing, Sales, Co-working, and Leadership. The list of topics is ever expanding in response to current trends. Each week, JBF conducts numerous interviews, shoots videos, and creates podcasts of varying lengths. Every piece of media is stretched to the fullest possible use and offered on a variety of platforms to ensure all information is userfriendly. “Some people like to read articles, others prefer watching video,” says Jim. “We also offer podcasts for those who are traveling or just prefer that medium.”

Clients who seek JBF Business Media’s guidance find Jim and Bridget’s advice to be sound and sage. “Sometimes new small business owners or those with an entrepreneurial spirit can find that starting up is not only financially difficult, but also a little bit of a personally overwhelming experience,” says Bridget. “We ask questions from the perspective of being business owners ourselves, and try to walk them through the challenges facing businesses today.”

A tour of the studio reveals an energetic corporate culture. Editing suites are staffed with creative employees who output several videos and shows daily. The high-tech set is designed to be customized for different clients who wish to shoot on site, as well as serving the weekend television shows. “We are the CNBC for small businesses here in Atlanta,” says Jim. “The website hosts our episodes and speaks to specific and relevant small business topics that extend beyond our local area.”

Providing relevant and savvy small business content suitable for expansion into other markets is part of a larger plan for JBF Business Media. The lessons to be learned from experts in all areas of business translate to other markets similar to the Atlanta Metro. “We use a vetting process here to make certain those we interview have expertise in their specific topics,” says Jim. “Bestselling authors, speakers, trainers, and business owners offer a wealth of useful information that becomes part of our daily content offerings.”

Taking a virtual tour of the Atlanta Small Business Network’s website is all-at-once exciting. It makes you want to have a great idea just to plug into all the rich content contained in the cyber treasure trove of business guidance. Covering everything from Simple Strategies to Hard Truths and all that falls in between is not an easy task, but the constantly fluid listings of show topics, interviews, book reviews, start-up advice, etc., are handled with all the panache of a New York studio. “Small business owners need help, and there is a plethora of information they may need right on the website,” says Jim. “It is a great place to get a strong start.”

And, as they grow, the team has plans to offer event-oriented training. “Imagine offering the small business owner the same access to training that corporate America can access,” says Jim. “The digital environment has changed everything for the mom and pop stores as well as the Amazons and Walmarts of the business landscape.”

Combining the many aspects of the Atlanta Small Business Network into a one-stopshop for the entrepreneur or small business owner has been rewarding for Jim and Bridget.

Seeking expertise, disseminating that information into digestible portions on a variety of platters, and providing a banquet of exceptionally relevant resources to the Atlanta Small Business Community has created a successful small business in and of itself for JBF Business Media. Even the company name is exceptionally descriptive of what is possible for the small business owner in terms of connecting with customers and clients. Media is the basis of communication in this highly technical era of business and provides the platform for succeeding as a small business in a global market.

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Learning Lessons: What Parents Need to Know about STEAM • Technology refers to using simple tools like crayons and rulers, as well as more complex ones like microscopes and computers.

Lately, everyone seems to be talking about STEAM. This acronym – which stands for sci• Engineering refers to recognizing problems and testing ence, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics – has become a hot topic in the world solutions to them. of education and in the business community. The practice of teaching by incorporating these • Arts encourage creativity and allow children to illustrate concepts into multidisciplinary lessons is revolutionizing education approaches across the concepts they are learning. country, even for children in preschool.

• Mathematics deals with numbers, but also patterns, While young children may not be able to understand multiplication or how computers shapes, organizational skills, and much more. work, they can develop a strong foundation for future learning by exploring STEAM skills There are many reasons why STEAM subjects should and concepts through play and discussion, and then applying those skills through more play. be addressed in early learning settings. A key component For young children: of STEAM is process skills, such as making observations, • Science encourages investigation and answering questions, often involving hypothesizing, and critical thinking. These skills help young experimentation. children grasp math and science concepts early in life while building a base for more complex concepts for years to come.

Research has shown that even very young children are capable of mathematical reasoning and can understand more advanced math skills than previously thought. Young children are also able to ask questions and make predictions about the world around them. In short, chil***** CHECK OUT OUR 300+ REVIEWS GOOGLE ***** CHECK OUT OUR 300+ REVIEWS ON GOOGLEdren are fully capable of learning foundational STEAM concepts, and parents and teachers ***** CHECK OUT OUR 300+ REVIEWS ONON GOOGLE should help children develop these skills at an early age. ***** CHECK OUT OUR 300+ REVIEWS ON GOOGLE ***** CHECK OUT OUR 300+ REVIEWS ON GOOGLE ***** REVIEWS ONON GOOGLE STEAM learning can also take place outside of the classroom. For example, parents can *****CHECK CHECKOUT OUTOUR OUR300+ 300+ REVIEWS GOOGLE encourage children to channel their inner engineer through a boat race activity. Have children use a variety of recyclables – cork, foil, tape, craft sticks, straw, an old swim noodle, and paper for a sail – to build a boat that can sail across the bathtub, a pan of water, or a puddle. After creating the boat, have children blow “wind” toward the boat to see how fast their creation travels. Parents and children can host races between multiple boats and discuss which boat is faster and why.

Young children grasp concepts through exploration and trial and error, so they should learn STEAM concepts at their own pace and in ways that are natural to them. To ensure that children are learning at their own pace, Primrose offers a balance of play with guidance from teachers and repeats STEAM lessons so children can master skills as they are ready.

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Meet Young Actress Cady Walls Continued from page 7

productions. Her upcoming roles include the characters Ben and Lisa in the musical Disaster! at OnStage Atlanta.

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Life as an actress for Cady is different from other older actresses. She is too young to drive, so her parents drive her to different studios for coaching and recording her tape auditions. Cady has a manager and also works with a talent agency that does a lot of networking for her. She is represented by Evolution WE ARE THE MOST HIGHLY RATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: Talent and The Actors Scene Management.

WE ARE THE MOST HIGHLY RATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: WE ARE THE MOST HIGHLY RATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: WE ARE HIGHLY RATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: WETHE AREMOST THEMOST MOST HIGHLY RATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: Cady’s age also influences the parts she gets audiWE ARE THE HIGHLY RATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: CARPET CLEANING FABRIC PROTECTION tions for. She is officially in the teen area of casting WE ARE THE MOST CARPET CLEANING FABRIC CARPETHIGHLY CLEANINGRATED IN NORTH GEORGIA: FABRIC PROTECTION PROTECTION PET ODOR REMOVAL UPHOLSTERY CLEANING CARPET CLEANING FABRIC PROTECTION and gets roles for characters ranging from ten to CARPET CLEANING FABRIC PROTECTION CARPET REMOVAL CLEANING FABRIC PROTECTION PET UPHOLSTERY PETODOR ODOR REMOVAL UPHOLSTERY CLEANING eighteen year olds.

HARDWOOD FLOOR CLEANING SERVICE TILE CLEANING PETCLEANING ODOR REMOVAL UPHOLSTERY CLEANING PETODOR ODORREMOVAL REMOVAL UPHOLSTERY CLEANING CARPET FABRIC PROTECTION PET UPHOLSTERY CLEANING “Sometimes I’ll get a role that is very mature that HARDWOOD TILE HARDWOODFLOOR FLOORCLEANING CLEANINGSERVICE SERVICE TILE CLEANING HARDWOOD FLOORFLOOR CLEANING SERVICE TILETILE CLEANING I’m not quite ready to play,” Cady said. “It’s always interesting to see the casting calls that HARDWOOD FLOOR CLEANING SERVICE TILE CLEANING PET ODOR REMOVAL UPHOLSTERY CLEANING HARDWOOD CLEANING SERVICE CLEANING come through. And it’s really interesting to kind of put myself in the mindsets of those drastiHARDWOOD FLOOR CLEANING SERVICE TILE CLEANING cally different characters maturity-wise.”

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The Mansions at Gwinnett Park Assisted Living & Memory Care

Grand Opening WE'RE HAVING A SPRING FLING! Saturday, April 4th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Join the festivities as we celebrate a new season and a new option for seniors in Lawrenceville. We’ll have live music, a carving station, heavy hors d'oeuvres and celebratory drinks for everyone!

This will be a party you do not want to miss!

RSVP to Stacey Donald at (770) 901-2477 or SDonald@TheMansionsatGwinnettPark.com.

2450 Buford Drive Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.TheMansionsatGwinnettPark.com

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PAGE 17

Protecting Your Greatest Material Asset

By Darrell Watson, MSW, D.Min. If someone were to ask you, “What is your greatest material asset?” what would your answer be? Most respond, “My house is my greatest asset.” Until recently, I, too, responded this way. However, there is a material asset even greater than your house. Believe it or not, your greatest asset is your paycheck. If you were to multiply your annual salary by 10, would this sum exceed the value of your house? For most of us, the answer is a resounding, “YES!” It is for this reason that protecting your paycheck needs to be high on your insurance priority list. Consider protecting your salary: 1) by way of a Disability Policy, and 2) by way of Life Insurance.

Disability Insurance: Statistically speaking, more people are affected by some form of disability during their working years than are affected by death. Disability policies can keep your household afloat if you were to ever have to miss work for a prolonged period due to an

accident or an illness.

Life Insurance: The rule of thumb regarding using life insurance to replace income is to multiply your salary by a factor of 10. So if my salary is $50,000/year, I would need $500,000 worth of life insurance to replace my income. Remember, the proceeds from a life insurance policy are not taxed, do not go through probate, and are shielded from creditors.

Make it a priority to protect your greatest material asset – your paycheck.

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see ourselves in these kids or their families. I wish I had someone like this when I was young.” She hopes other people in the community will reach out and volunteer.

Born in Peru, Crawford immigrated to the United States when she was ten years old. The transition to a new environment and culture was a shock to her, but with the love and support of her family, she flourished. She attended Florida A&M University where she attained a bachelor’s and a master’s degree before she came to Georgia in 2006.

Her pride and joy are her three sons and Oreo, her Shih Tzu. Last year, Crawford was named one of Georgia’s most influential people and was the keynote speaker at the Georgia Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages annual event. She also writes bilingual children’s books. The Sofia series is about an immigrant girl and the power of her community helping her thrive. Her books, including her most recent book, Sofia & Vivi: Big Sister, are written in both English and Spanish. She has also written a parent empowerment book, Plant the Seeds Well...Expect Wonders, that is available in English and Spanish. Fans of her work will look forward to a new chapter book series coming soon. It is clear this is her passion and she feels privileged to help children grow both academically and socially.

More information at nury.crawford.@gcps.k12.org.

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Mentoring Matters in Gwinnett: Meet Nury Castillo Crawford

By Amy Ney It is no surprise that research consistently proves the positive, long-term benefits of mentoring. Whether it is professional, personal, or spiritual, mentoring is often a stimulant for growth and accomplishment. Particularly for the youth, a healthy mentoring relationship can be critical to achieving both academic and personal goals. Studies point to increases in confidence and performance, as well as decreases in risky behavior in students who are effectively mentored. Nury Castillo Crawford, Director of Academic Support in Gwinnett Public Schools, wants to do just this in her community. “I love Gwinnett,” she said. “I believe in our community. I believe all children should feel good about themselves and those happy children make successful adults. It is my passion.” Gwinnett is fortunate to have such a champion for a better tomorrow.

Gwinnett Public Schools has seen an increase in diversity, especially in the Latinx population. Despite the increase, graduation rates lag behind other population groups. “Some of our strategies in implementing mentoring are to eliminate or minimize that gap in Latinx graduation rates,” she explained. Her program started in Meadowcreek and Berkmar, expanding to Norcross, Discovery, and Central Gwinnett. Crawford was excited to announce they would be in fifteen schools next year. The schools are chosen based on data and the ratio of Latinx students. Crawford explained the best place to start is in middle school. “We review data that reflects the top three variables to predict student achievement: attendance, behaviors, and academic success.” she asserted. “We want to intervene before they start encountering challenges.”

But this program goes beyond demographics. Crawford wants to support any student who needs it. She confirmed that sometimes even if a student seems to be doing fine in school, a teacher or administrator or parent feels that something is wrong or a child needs a little extra support. The student can then be sent an invitation to participate. “The invitation ultimately is to the parents,” she said. “They need to buy-in. There is no cost involved.”

As for the mentors themselves, Crawford says, “The biggest role mentors have is to listen.

Students usually have about fourteen minutes a day that an adult will listen to them. And to meet with a student for an hour every other week, and to listen without judgment, can be life-changing for kids.” The benefits of Crawford’s mentoring program are far-reaching: increased high school graduation rates and lower dropout rates; healthier relationships and lifestyle choices; higher educational aspirations; enhanced self-esteem and self-confidence; improved behavior, both at home and school; stronger relationships with parents, teachers, and peers; improved interpersonal skills; and decreased likelihood of initiating drug and alcohol use.

Crawford explained every mentor volunteer goes through background checks like a public school teacher. Then they are trained. “We have events throughout the year where we meet” she said. “I communicate with them via emails, newsletters, and phone calls. Mentoring is mostly at school. Sometimes, though, families invite mentors to their home or dinner.”

Crawford said she understands the challenges faced by many of these students. “So many in the Latinx community who volunteer are also first-generation,” she explained. “We can

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PAGE 19

The Village Corner Continued from page 12 rant. Scan the menu and you’ll find German pancakes, German potato pancakes, schnitzel, fresh pretzels, Reubens, a large selection of German sausages, sauerbraten, and Wiener schnitzel. Top it off with a freshly-made dessert and your favorite beverage, and you have the makings for a wonderful dining experience, all served up as only The Village Corner can.

“We grew and expanded when the Olympics came to Atlanta. People loved our authentic German fare,” Carl Friese proudly says. “And we have a large group of patrons who were stationed in Germany while in the military service that dine with us regularly because we’re the only place they can find authentic German food like they once enjoyed there.”

Whether you’re dining in, taking out, or having a special event catered, The Village Corner does it all. German food at its best, pastries and breads to die for, and cold beverages for every taste -- all served in an authentic German atmosphere. There’s only one word that comes to mind…wunderbar!

More information at www.GermanRestaurant.com.

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PAGE 20 Become an Advertising Partner: Email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049 19-AGOB-0423 Our Town Green - Guy-necology 10x7.5306 Mar.indd 1

Our Town1/31/20 Gwinnett 11:51 AM

From Plastics to Parrots: Brenda Bean and Parrot Productions

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By Emily Rubin Brenda Bean started Parrot Productions, her exotic bird show featuring birds from across the Southern Hemisphere, twelve years ago because her birds were bored sitting at home.

She had worked for fifteen years in a plastics factory making vinyl siding, and when she came home from work, she had no energy to play with her birds even though they needed interaction. Brenda started Parrot Productions to give her birds the attention and interaction they needed.

Parrot Productions visits assisted living homes, daycares, schools, birthday parties, and libraries.

“I had no idea that I would be doing five to seven shows a week with these birds,” Brenda said. “I didn’t have any clue that Parrot Productions would flourish.”

The bird show started with just four birds in a friend’s elementary school class. Since then, the show has grown to eighteen exotic birds from all over the Southern Hemisphere. Many of Brenda’s show birds are highly endangered, and she shows her audience the importance of protecting the species.

“All my show birds love to go to these shows,” Brenda said. “They love to stand out on the perch and they know they have to wait their turn. It’s really adorable that they love their turn, they love to go, they love to see all these new people.”

Brenda got involved with birds long before Parrot Productions started traveling around Georgia. At fourteen, she convinced her parents to let her buy a parakeet. Brenda picked out the biggest and prettiest blue parakeet that turned out to be the oldest and most awful.

“She was never tame and I was brokenhearted,” Brenda recalled. “She only lived for a year because she was probably six years old when I got her and they only make it six years. Then I didn’t have any more birds until the ‘80s.”

For years, Brenda had a successful bird business in Texas. The business died down during the recession when no one could afford to buy a thousand dollar bird, even if it was a great deal. She moved to Georgia where now she not only does bird shows, but she also hand raises baby birds.

Brenda thinks she has raised around 1,000 or 2,000 baby birds since she got involved with parrots in the ‘80s. In the middle of baby season, she can have up to fifty-six babies at a time to feed formula to.

“The babies that I raise up actually come to me and this makes everything all worthwhile, all the mess, all the grief, and the exhaustion,” Brenda said. “When you open the cage door and the bird comes to you, it’s really magical.”

Along with baby birds, Brenda finds homes for older birds whose owners can no longer take care of them. Brenda says some people who have had a pet bird for twenty-five years can no longer take care of the bird when they move into a nursing home, and placing that bird in the right home is difficult. She takes pride in her ability to find them forever homes.

Brenda sells her baby birds at her Doraville shop called Fancy Feathers. She sells everyContinued on page 22

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}

PAGE 21

Sports Talk: The Grayson High School Girls Soccer Team

Burgers and Brews Week – Who Will Be the Burger Champ?

By Kristen Eleveld

By Traci Sanders

Studies have shown that when it comes to encouraging teamwork and achieving goals, organized sports are a great way to teach teens and young kids these vital skills. Not only that, but organized sports also teach kids to push themselves to their limits – and maybe a little beyond.

These qualities are certainly true of the Grayson High School Varsity girls’ soccer team, which puts a high priority on teamwork and doing their very best.

Led by Coach Rebekah Bullock for the last five years, the team has quickly learned that if you want to succeed, you have to try – an idea encouraged by their coach.

“We do a lot of team building, goal setting, and reflection in between games that encourage the girls to remember their ‘why,’” said Coach Bullock. “We also strive to push character development, which gives the girls an opportunity to get out of their comfort zone and inspire their teammates.”

Indeed, pushing her girls to do their best is a priority that Coach Bullock maintains both on and off the field as she also serves as the health teacher for the school. While she finds both jobs equally rewarding, it is the combination of getting to know her students in different capacities that allows the coach to see just how well her students and players are thriving.

“The highlight of being both a coach and teacher is seeing a student grasp a concept that we have been working on in practice,” Coach Bullock said. “It brings me so much joy to see them accomplish their goals as young women and know they will be successful in the future.”

Coach Bullock has always been involved in sports herself, and played soccer in both high school and college. She credits her own high school coach with inspiring her to reach her potential and showed her how valuable it was to set goals for herself. Coach Bullock now uses those lessons to work with her own team as she inspires them to victory – not just in the game, but in the way they strive to make themselves better each day.

“I wake up daily thinking about how blessed I am to work with the students, both in the classroom and on the field,” she said. “I have the pleasure of coaching flag football and soccer, and I love the relationships I get to make with the girls and their families.”

It is this trust and relationship that makes these students want to do their best – not only on the soccer field, but in every aspect of their lives. This determination will serve them well over the coming season as they play multiple times each week against the best of the best in Gwinnett. This team holds its own, and invites the community to be part of their success by showing support for the Grayson Rams. Whether you have a child at the school or just want to cheer on the team, everyone is welcome to help these players find the encouragement and inspiration they need to succeed each season.

More information at graysonsoccer.net/

Burger lovers, mark your calendars! Explore Gwinnett is hosting their fourth annual Burgers and Brews Week between March 15 and March 21. They are passionate about sharing local cuisine with visitors and Gwinnettians by offering specialty, one-of-a-kind burgers for a limited time. Their mission is to encourage people to try a new restaurant and hopefully become a repeat customer.

Another cool addition to the event this year is something called Burgers and Brews Battle, where visitors can try all the burgers at once and decide on their favorite. Only one will be named the best burger in Gwinnett.

This will take place on March 21st from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

The following restaurants will participate in Burgers and Brews Week and the Battle: Public House, ArtBar (Sonesta Gwinnett Place Atlanta), The Crossing Steakhouse, La Belle Vie, Local Republic, McCray’s Tavern on the Square, Parkside District, Parma Tavern, Ten Bistro, and Uncle Jack’s Meat House.

Farm Burger, Peachtree Corners, and Firebirds Wood Fired Grill will only be participating in the Burgers and Brews Week.

Entry is free for the restaurants and Explore Gwinnett provides all of the marketing as well as the materials (aside from ingredients) for the Battle event. They are partnering with Laundry Events and City of Lawrenceville for the Burger Battle as well.

The specialty a la carte burgers that are served during the Burgers and Brews will be $7 each. These are not your everyday burgers. For example, Uncle Jack’s Meat House will be serving the Vito Corleone – William Jack Degel’s signature prime beef blend of pork and veal featuring Pecorino Romano and Grande Mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, San Marzano Marinara, and Basil Aioli.

Tickets for the Burger Battle event are $35 each and include tastings of each burger, as well as two beers. Additional beverages will be available for purchase.

Explore Gwinnett will distribute a People’s Choice award (voted on by event attendees) and a Critic’s Choice award. Judges for the Critic’s Choice award are still being decided, but Lawrenceville mayor, David Still, will be one of them. Social media will play a part in the process as well, but details have not been decided just yet.

Each winner will receive a very special plaque, provided by Explore Gwinnett, as well as bragging rights in the town.

More information at https://www.facebook.com/events/131923661478859/

Brenda Bean and Parrot Productions Continued from page 21 thing a bird needs including food, toys, treats, cages, formula, and stands.

Her show birds can also be found outside of the Parrot Production shows. Some of her birds are TV and movie stars sitting on actors’ shoulders. Her bird Little Man starred on the shoulder of Allison Janney in the movie I, Tonya, and others have appeared in the remake of The Jungle Book and in an episode of the CW series Dynasty.

Audience reactions are Brenda’s favorite part of the bird shows. People are awestruck throughout the show, and when they hold a bird on their arm, the excitement is visible.

“I live for these faces,” she said. “I live for that moment when the light comes on in a kid’s eyes because he’s holding a bird for the first time and he looks at the teacher. That’s why I continue to do it. And I’ll probably do it until physically I am unable to.”

More information at http://parrotproshows.com/.

PAGE 22

Catching up with Camp Bow Wow Continued from page 10 given to those companies who routinely maintain a customer satisfaction rating of at least 85%.

The Lawrenceville location in particular has made some great strides in accomplishing new levels of excellence during 2019. They were named the “Best Doggy Daycare” by readers in the Gwinnett Daily Post, and received the Best of Gwinnett award for pet boarders and pet sitters for 2018, along with being high contenders for the as of yet unnamed 2019 honor.

In between winning awards, Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville has also had some fun. They participated in – and won! – the Family Promise Bed Race in 2019, and even appeared in the annual Lawrenceville Christmas parade.

It’s clear to anyone that Camp Bow Wow is not just another place to board your dogs – it is a place run by people who are invested in their community, are dedicated to helping those in need, and have consistently shown what excellence in business really means.

More information at www.campbowwow.com/lawrenceville-ga.

Become an Advertising Partner: Email Info@OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

Our Town Gwinnett

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Bring on the Saturday morning dance parties.

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PAGE 23

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