MARCH 2021: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

MARCH 2021 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville

Up Close with Bill Rhodes Bakery, see story on page 5.

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On the Cover: The Bakery is Back: Why the Bill Rhodes Bakery Should Be Your Next Stop

By Kristen Eleveld

When Lizzy Delapeta turned three years old, she celebrated with a delicious cake from a local bakery that was owned and operated by the Rhodes family. Now, many years later and with a lifetime of experience behind her, Lizzy has become the owner of that same bakery, and is providing the community with the same delicious treats she enjoyed as a child.

“I’ve always loved baking,” Lizzy said. “When I was growing up, my grandmother taught me how to bake. My friends would come to my house so we could bake together.”

Beginning over a decade ago, Lizzy began to pursue her love of baking as a career. Starting as an intern at the Atlanta Cupcake Factory, she soon found herself working her way up through a variety of positions at different bakeries and boutique shops. In fact, she worked for five years at the Bill Rhodes Bakery itself.

It was at the end of these five years in 2019 that Lizzy received a call from the Williams family, the current owners of the Bill Rhodes Bakery, who asked if she would be interested in buying the bakery to manage as her own. Lizzy and her husband Darius knew this was the opportunity they had been waiting for and jumped in with both feet. Lizzy’s brother Nathan also joined the team as the baker for their store.

The original Bill Rhodes Bakery was built in the early 1980s, and the building itself needed a bit of work. Lizzy and Darius also wanted to take the chance to add their personal touch and bring the bakery a little further into the twenty-first century. This meant doing some renovating while also preserving the things that made the bakery so special to its Snellville residents.

“For me, this bakery holds a lot of tradition,” Lizzy said. “We want to maintain the sense of community and good memories that it holds.”

This community-oriented mindset has brought a steady stream of customers. Some are regulars; others are new to the area. But everyone who walks out of the store can agree that this bakery stands out above the rest through its quality ingredients and the excellent team Continued on page 11

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— 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.

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IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: The Bakery is Back: Why the Bill Rhodes Bakery Should Be Your 7 8 8 9 9 10 10 12 12 14 14 15 16 17 18 18 19

Next Stop From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks Learning Lessons: Five Ways to Nurture Literacy Skills from Birth through Age Five Community Business Spotlight: Blackbird Farms Brewery Doggos and Their People – In the Park Live Music: Keeping Us Mentally Fit Amid the Pandemic Winter Farmers Markets Pet Perch: The Single Biggest Mistake You May Be Making One Man’s Opinion: A Moment with Hammerin’ Hank Staying Flexible: How Benchmark Physical Therapy Navigated a Challenging Year One Man’s Opinion: Don’t Do It! Up Close with Mellow Mushroom in Snellville Community Member Spotlight: Meet Soccer Star Stella Allen Hope for Challenging Times: Meet Jarad Turner Hometown Brag: LeLoni Smith – South Gwinnett High School 2011 Digital Tools Can Help Kids Learn Safe Money Habits Clothes Story Exhibit Opens with Historic Fashion Show Leading the Way in Online Learning: Gwinnett Online Campus

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From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks

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By Ryan T. Sauers

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Veteran Electric Bobby Albritton

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Here I am writing this column for March 2021, and I want you to consider a few things that began occurring over a year ago.

February 25, 2020: CDC Says COVID-19 Is Heading Toward Pandemic Status; March 6, 2020: 21 Passengers on California Cruise Ship Test Positive; March 11, 2020: WHO Declares Scan Now to learn more.6 COVID-19 a Pandemic; March 13, 2020: President Declares COVID-19 a National Emergency (https://www.ajmc.com/view/atimeline-of-covid19-developments-in-2020) Wow. Okay, I will stop there. It is hard for me, and I am sure for you, to see that these events were twelve months ago. This time will be etched into our minds forever. For example, I first heard the term “pivot” in early March 2020 from a friend of mine. I have since heard it many hundreds of times. We have all gone through a traumatic time in some manner. Human beings are made to be “social,” so being “physically distanced” has made for a tough road even if you have had no issue with COVID-19. It is tough, strange, weird, etc. to have so many things we took for granted changed/taken away over the past year.

I want you to know that we are making progress. We are getting there. We have done it together. One day, one week, one month… and now one year at a time. Now, let me tell you something. Maybe I cannot give you a smile without a mask on, a handshake, or a hug yet, but I can tell you this: You, my friend, are a unique and special person. I may not know you directly, but your feedback and encouragement to me are much appreciated. Your support helps me remain optimistic in writing these columns and on radio, TV, video, and podcast shows. Iron sharpens iron.

Let me encourage us all to consider the time we are living in. It is tough. Unprecedented.

Lonely. Frustrating. Confusing. Overwhelming. Unknown, and much more. Quite frankly, there are no real words that are good enough to encompass or describe 2020/2021 so far.

However, I can see the finish line, and, man, I want to be there bad. I know you do, too.

Again, when we are limited in how we can do certain things, such as smiling at someone with a mask off or being able to go out for long periods, stress is created. We might turn to social media to interact and express ourselves more than in the past. There is nothing wrong with these tools, and I use most of them. However, social media can be toxic, and for me, there is no place for that. These excellent communication tools can create great division and can seemingly push our buttons and/or push us over the edge. If what we post divides people, puts people down, or is not encouraging in nature, maybe we should think twice before postContinued on page 18

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For over 30 years, the Gwinnett County area and beyond has trusted Bill Rhodes Bakery with their most treasured celebrations! Whether it is with a box of brownies or an immaculate wedding cake, make this year’s celebrations extra special with a treat from the oldest bakery in Snellville!

billrhodesbakery.com 770-979-2253 2335 Scenic Hwy S, Snellville, GA 30078 @billrhodesbakery

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Learning Lessons: Five Ways to Nurture Literacy Skills from Birth through Age Five

Community Business Spotlight: Blackbird Farms Brewery

By Tanisha Turner

By Kristen Eleveld

In today’s competitive society, it is easy to think that earlier is always better when it comes to learning. Children are often expected to master skills like learning to read simple sentences or to write their names by a certain age. But just as children grow and develop socially at different times, their brains also develop at different rates.

For literacy specifically, normal development for learning to read and write usually ranges between the ages of 4 and 9.

However, while brain development cannot be rushed, parents can nurture the foundational skills that support literacy starting from birth up until children are developmentally ready.

To encourage literacy skill development in children from birth through age 5, parents can use the following tips: 1. Talk to children often. According to national nonprofit Zero to Three, talking to children benefits their language skills starting from birth. As children get older, engage them in conversations about their day, ask them questions, tell jokes, and make up stories together.

2. Make reading together a daily routine. Fill your children’s bookcases with both fiction and nonfiction books, and read together regularly. For infants and toddlers, read cardboard books so they can practice turning the pages, and ask them to point to familiar objects on the page such as “Where is the ball?” For preschool-aged children, ask open-ended questions about the book and point out familiar letters.

3. Play rhyming and sound games. While in a waiting room or in the car, take turns saying a word like “cat” and having your preschooler answer with a rhyming word like “bat” and nonsense words like “yat” or “zat.” For younger children, practice animal noises. As they learn about different animals, ask them to tell you what sound each animal makes. This is a great way for them to start learning how to identify different language sounds and replicate them.

4. Set up a writing table in your primary living space. Writing is part of daily life, so it’s important to make it easily accessible for children. Starting from when they are around 2 years old, encourage them to write and experiment with different literacy tools by gathering materials like blank paper, crayons, markers, and more on a table in the room where your family spends the most time.

5. Provide activities at home that support motor development. Both gross and fine motor skill development aid children in learning to write. Encourage your children to climb, run, and skip outdoors to build gross motor strength, and provide stacking and dressing activities to grow fine motor skills.

Incorporating these tips into children’s daily activities can help promote brain development Continued on page 18

Twenty years ago, Matt Williams was going to school in Wisconsin, where he found a job working at a local brewery. He was excited to discover the process that went into creating unique, delicious craft beer that everyone could enjoy. Since then, he has continued to increase his expertise in the industry, working as brewmaster, doing cellar work, and working at every brewery position in between. Now, he is putting all that knowledge and experience to good use as he opens up Blackbird Farms Brewery in the Lilburn area.

“There are other breweries nearby, but none that are truly part of our neighborhood,” said Matt. “We wanted to create something that was truly local and part of our small but mighty community.”

The brewery is set to open in late March/early April, and one of the things Matt is most looking forward to is for the community to be able to taste the beer he is making. Blackbird Farms Brewery is already unique due to Matt’s extensive experience in the industry, but they take it one step further with the ingredients they use. Each of their beers is made from ingredients that come from farms all over the world. Europe, Canada, and even local Georgia farms are represented in this delightful array of fresh, whole ingredients that create a distinct recipe of creativity and taste.

“A brewery is the space where art and science come together,” Matt said, noting that one of his favorite things is to create new recipes for beer that customers will fall in love with. “I want every recipe to be creative, to have a great story behind it, and to be enjoyed by our customers.”

As Matt has created most of the beer menu that he will offer, it’s easy to see just how committed he is to offering unique blends that will have everyone asking for seconds. But for Matt, the brewery goes beyond the beer itself. He has a vision for creating a space that belongs to the community.

The brewery will open at 4:00 p.m. each day, but Matt doesn’t want the building to stand empty until then. Instead, he wants to encourage the community to make use of the great space that is available during the day. Whether it’s a local business conducting a sales meeting, a yoga class looking for a new place to exercise, or even a local scout troop holding a fundraiser, Matt

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Doggos and Their People – In the Park

By Beth Volpert Johansen Anyone who has had a dog (cat, snake, or any other “pet”) might wonder who is the actual boss in the relationship. When it comes to Dog Parks, the topic is certainly up for debate among doggos and their humans. Trust me – it’s a thing! There are even doggie parks and spas located in mixed-use living throughout the county, like the new Southlawn in Lawrenceville where each afternoon a contingent gathers to discuss the day’s events and commune with canines.

Beyond neighborhoods with dog park areas are the community parks here in Gwinnett. Closed for a while in early 2020 – like everything else pandemically affected – Gwinnett’s dog parks have enjoyed a healthy bit of use for those who want to “shed” some of the pressures created by working at home, schooling at home, and all the other “at home” related activities. Truth? Watching dogs run and play with others of their species is just plain comical and relaxing.

Teacher and Gwinnett resident Stacy Jurick and her family love to hang out with their rescues, Tucker and Roxy, at Alexander Park. “It’s a great place to decompress and see that the rest of the world still exists,” says Stacy. “With the added normal daily life pressures that the pandemic has produced, getting outside with our family’s dogs helps keep me balanced.

It’s impossible to stay stressed when you are out there watching all the dogs play. Our dogs Continued on page 15

Live Music: Keeping Us Mentally Fit Amid the Pandemic

By Beth Volpert-Johansen When it comes to supporting live music, there are some notable folks in and around Gwinnett County.

Many local restaurants, breweries, and municipalities provide a range of genres to meet listening preferences. However, when it comes to the indoor concert, things almost came to a grinding halt with the litany of COVID-safety measures stemming from such sources as the CDC to so-and-so’s grandmama.

Navigating the appropriate way to keep a business churning in the safest way possible is a true challenge.

Rising to that challenge here in Gwinnett – and with its “brother” venues in Avondale and Gainesville – is the popular 37 Main in downtown Buford. Nestled in the shadows of the historic tanneries that helped build Buford, 37 Main has proven that entrepreneurship is still breathing here in the Gwinnett area.

While the idea of live music inside might seem contraindicated during a pandemic, the owners of 37 Main have worked hard to keep their staff on board as well as support performers and fans. “We are committed to providing the safest live music experience possible,” says co-owner Joe White. “Everyone at 37 Main feels live music is a part of our fabric as human beings. We are social creatures, and once you take that interaction away, you open yourself up to other destructive things.” Adding to their commitment to providing a safe music venue is their live-streaming option. “Our live streaming network was built for those who were not yet Continued on page 13

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Winter Farmers Markets

Pet Perch: The Single Biggest Mistake You May Be Making

By Beth Volpert Johansen Farmers Markets are not just for summer. Gwinnett has many options for obtaining fresh goods from local growers year-round. Two popular markets, Snellville and Suwanee, have managed to keep current with COVID-19 preventative measures.

According to Gretchen Schulz of the Snellville Farmers Market, the first and third Saturday of each month is THE place to be for their extended season. “Our slogan – Nourishing our Community – says a lot about our mission,” she says. “Not only do we provide a venue for customers to purchase the freshest local produce, locally-raised meats, eggs, honey, and quality baked goods, but we also are a gathering place for the community. We’re a place where friends and neighbors often see each other and may enjoy a few minutes to chat.”

Now in its twelfth year, the Snellville Farmers Market has brought back some of the Saturday neighborliness enjoyed by residents since the Sawyers and Snells first set up shop back in the early 1880s. “Because of our twelve-year existence, many of our vendors and customers have developed great friendships,” Gretchen adds. Even the website for Snellville’s Farmers Market is all about neighbors connecting with neighbors through the sharing of recipes.

Like Snellville, Suwanee offers a limited Farmers Market during the winter months.

According to their website, Suwanee intends to begin weekly markets on Saturdays starting May 1st. Check the City of Suwanee website for more information.

Continued on page 18

By Terie Hansen This may come as a surprise to many dog owners, but allowing your dog to meet other dogs or people while on leash may be the single biggest mistake you ever make. It can result in a multitude of negative outcomes and behaviors.

Repeated on leash greetings can take an otherwise relaxed, happy, social dog and turn it into a nervous insecure dog or an over stimulated excessively excited dog.

When dogs are in an uncomfortable situation, they can get into flight or fight mode. In social interactions, where your dog is not on a leash, they can move away (flight) if they feel stressed, nervous, fearful, or anxious. That would be an excellent choice on the dog’s part. However, when they are leashed, they no longer have that option, and they know it. That leaves them looking for alternate ways to deal with the situation. One option may be to fight. This may not have happened yet, but with repeated exposure to stressful on leash interactions your dog may one day choose the fight option. In their mind, you are not advocating for them. In fact, YOU are placing them in the stressful situation in the first place.

At the very least you can end up with a leash reactive dog (one that barks, growls, lunges at other dogs or people while on leash). REACTIVITY is the way that many dogs choose to deal with stressful situations. Reactivity can be mild or pretty scary.

How do you let dogs interact and who with? You place them off-leash in an enclosed area (house/yard) with happy, social dogs that you know. Also, doggy daycare is a great choice. It is a social environment that is structured and supervised by trained professionals.

Next time you think it’s a good idea to let your dog meet another dog on leash, put yourself in their place. Would you like to be repeatedly placed in situations where you couldn’t get away if you wanted/needed to?

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

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Bill Rhodes Bakery Continued from page 5 behind the counter.

Like so many other businesses, Bill Rhodes Bakery found itself closing its doors for a short time during the height of the COVID-19 shutdown. However, while people could no longer come inside the store, that didn’t mean that Lizzy and her team weren’t as busy as ever. They set up a system for customers to call ahead or place orders online that allowed them to meet customers at the curb for a contactless delivery experience. The Delapetas also used the time to complete some additional renovations in the bakery, so that when customers were able to walk inside again, they were greeted with a fresh, modern look that still emphasized the community spirit found within the bakery walls.

For everyday treats, you can’t beat Bill Rhodes. They keep many delicious baked goods on hand that you can walk in and purchase right on the spot. Their petit fours are among some of their most popular products, but they have a wide variety of options designed to suit every taste.

But if you’re looking for a more customized cake, perhaps for a wedding or other important

event, Lizzy and her team still have you covered. In fact, this is where they shine. Lizzy, who serves as the chief decorator, brings her years of experience and expertise to create a tasty cake that is exactly what you were hoping for.

“Decorating is a craft. It takes time to learn,” said Lizzy. “It’s important to us that our customers know that we can do just about anything, but it takes time to create something excellent.”

The time is certainly worth the wait. You can scroll through the dozens of amazing photos on the Bill Rhodes Bakery website to see some examples of the mouth-watering treats that the bakery offers.

At the end of the day, it’s all about one thing for the team at Bill Rhodes Bakery – the customers who have continued to shop at the bakery, whether it’s in the store itself, using the online ordering service, or calling in to place an order.

“We are just very thankful to be working and for customers who have supported us,” Lizzy said. “We are still here, and we are grateful.”

More information at https://billrhodesbakery.com/

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One Man’s Opinion: A Moment with Hammerin’ Hank

By Bill Crane My younger brother Brian was gifted with more athletic prowess than I was. I ran cross country and track, and played soccer up through high school, but I never demonstrated any real talent for baseball, basketball, or football. Perhaps that contributed to Dad never really wanting to spend time at many sporting events. But on each of those rare occasions that we did go, those memories are tattooed on my brain.

When I was ten, Dad took my brother and me to a Braves Bat Game Day. I’m not sure if the MLB franchises still practice this easy marketing ploy, but at the end of each game, on your way out of the stadium, there were barrels of free Louisville Slugger baseball bats, each autographed by favored and more famous players. Brian selected a bat sporting the signature of Rico Carty. I was fortunate to draw my slugger signed by already legendary homerun king, Hammerin’ Hank Aaron.

I would meet Mr. Aaron a few years later at a Braves publicity event during the Ted Turner ownership years, and again when he transitioned to baseball executive and entrepreneur in Atlanta’s Olympic era and since. Decades have passed, and that Hank Aaron bat morphed into a family heirloom and later homestead protector, to be most often brandished for checking out things that go bump in the night versus any batting practice.

More recently, life and circumstances would grant me a moment with the Hammer. As COVID-19 ravages the globe, miraculous vaccines now offer a way to slow if not eventually curtail the spread of this killer virus.

It was into these waters strode Hammerin’ Hank. On January 5, 2021, the Morehouse Healthcare Clinic at the Morehouse School of Medicine was the site of vaccinations for several

Staying Flexible: How Benchmark Physical Therapy Navigated a Challenging Year

By Kristen Eleveld When COVID-19 swept across the country this past year, many businesses found themselves pivoting to adjust to the changes. Some had to shut down for weeks; others allowed employees to work from home.

But for some businesses, shutting down was never an option. Businesses like Benchmark and Drayer Physical Therapy continued to not only serve their patients, but offer them a level of care that was above and beyond the norm.

Benchmark and Drayer were able to keep up with many patients, and even see a few new ones, thanks to their incorporation of telehealth services. While the therapists at these offices always prefer to see their patients in person as much as possible, using video services has opened up some unexpected benefits to both the therapists and their patients.

“Moving forward, we think telehealth could be a great tool for those who want to come in person but aren’t able to due to travel or scheduling issues,” said Regional Vice President Wesley Spake, who holds a doctorate in physical therapy himself. “We want people to be able to come to therapy as often as possible to help them heal.”

Along with adding more convenient times and methods for therapy sessions, Benchmark Physical Therapy has continued to offer times and days outside the typical work week so patients can find the time that works best for them. Now that so many patients are doing therapy over video, therapists are also able to better incorporate the equipment and resources that patients have at home, which means their physical therapy can continue even if they are not in a session.

COVID-19 has affected the physical therapy office in other ways, too – like the amount of

PAGE 12

Civil Rights legends and African American giants of their day and field, each over the age of 75, who rolled up their sleeves and took their shot – in part to demonstrate its safety and efficacy to the broader population, and particularly aimed at skeptical communities of black and brown.

Interviewed a few days after his first inoculation, the longtime Atlanta Braves Hall of Famer said, “I’m 80-something – there’s not much I can do to help.”

Aaron arrived on a scooter, alongside Civil Rights legend and former Atlanta mayor and U.N. ambassador, Andrew Young. It was a day of giants, including the founding dean of the Morehouse School of Medicine, Dr. Louis Sullivan, and his wife, who also received the vaccine along with other prominent pastors and leaders of the movement that day.

I was able to have a brief chat with The Hammer, and I mentioned that I had brought along a special keepsake that I wanted to show him, as well as ask a small favor. Aaron smiled and readily agreed, and I presented that Louisville Slugger, and a Sharpie marker. He gave the fifty-year-old bat a spin, and ran his hand down along the grain, and across his earlier etched-in signature, and then, he signed it again.

I now am the proud owner of a twin-signed Hammerin’ Hank Aaron Louisville Slugger, with signatures fifty years and a few inches apart. I could not know that Hank’s time left leading by example, as he was again doing that day, was short.

His final Tweet to his fans later that same day said, “I was proud to get the COVID-19 vaccine earlier today at the Morehouse School of Medicine. I hope you do the same.”

Two and a half weeks later, Mrs. Aaron would find that her husband had peacefully passed in his sleep on January 22nd at the age of 86. The Fulton County Medical Examiner ruled his death from natural causes, and there were no COVID-19 symptoms.

We have twin grandsons now in my family, the Mighty Mites, just over four months old. They know nothing yet of baseball, bats, or great American heroes, but the wall of their bedroom is going to sport a twin-signature bat of America’s home run king – and I can’t quite wait ‘til they are old enough to attend their first Braves game. We may take along the bat, which seems a fitting way to continue to honor and remember that moment with Hammerin’ Hank.

Crane is the senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns the full-service communications firm, CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com people they are seeing who have attempted home improvement projects and the injuries that often follow.

“We have seen a lot of people in need this year because they are home more and are working on big projects,” Spake said. “We’re always here to help with any kind of need.”

While all locations of Benchmark Physical Therapy have always made a priority of keeping their office clean, this year they have gone the extra mile to ensure the safety of each patient who walks through their doors. Over in the Beaver Ruin location, Clinic Director Mason Earp is working with his team to enact the Clean Safe Ready program, put into place by Benchmark earlier this year. The program emphasizes patient and staff health through conducting temperature checks, providing multiple hand sanitizing stations around the office, requiring face coverings for everyone in the building, and encouraging everyone to minimize the time they spend touching or removing their face coverings.

Earp, who also holds a doctorate in physical therapy, attributes much of the success at his clinic’s location to the excellent team that runs the office.

“You’re not going to find a better team,” said Earp.

“We have a fun environment here, and we pride ourselves on operating seamlessly together.”

This teamwork and commitment to patient care has been the driving force of many Benchmark locations in the Gwinnett area. As a whole, the practice is all about making their patients comfortable and, at the end of the day, leave them feeling better than when they came in.

“We really strive to provide not only excellent clinical services, but also customer service experiences,” said Earp. “Customer service is at the base and heart of our practice.”

“I learn as much from my patients as I teach them,” added Spake. “We are all motivated by knowing that we have the ability to help people who are hurting, and we want to make each experience an educational one.”

With dozens of locations and specialties in the immediate area and beyond, Benchmark Continued on page 18

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Mar ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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One Man’s Opinion: Don’t Do It!

By Bill Crane There is, of course, a tendency for an individual or political party that is in a position of power to want to try and hang on to that power. What may be more important to remember, as we live in a democratic republic, is that the real power is in the hands of voters and our citizenry – if they make USE of that power.

After losing Congress to the GOP during the mid-term election of 1994, Democratic President Bill Clinton reached out to new Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA) to craft several pieces of more centrist legislation including Welfare/ Workfare reform, which resulted in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, and other programs that Clinton had not championed earlier in his first term. He would be re-elected in 1996 by a wider margin than his first victory.

During the same time frame in Georgia, the House Congressional Caucus had shifted majority to Republican (including Gingrich). Then Governors Zell Miller and his successor Roy Barnes both noted the shift to the GOP, first in the metro Atlanta suburbs and next into Miller’s home country of the North Georgia mountains. Barnes would be a powerful one-term governor, but changing the state flag and political conflicts with Georgia educators, along with shifts in demographics and voting trends, would result in an upset victory by then state senator, Sonny Perdue, who was elected in 2002 as Georgia’s first Republican governor since Reconstruction.

In a last-gasp attempt at hanging on to power, Georgia Democrats had used the 2001 reapportionment of congressional and legislative districts to draw maps more favorable to Democratic incumbents. But the new maps did not do the trick. Losers in 2002 would include then House Speaker Thomas B. Murphy, the longest-serving Democratic State House Speaker in the nation, as well as members of Congress and the Georgia General Assembly. It would be Georgia’s State Senate, following Perdue’s election, that would be the first to flip to GOP majority.

That red tide would continue, consistently spreading until about 2016. Those same metro Atlanta suburbs, particularly women voters, began to recoil from some of the expanded GOP’s

Up Close with Mellow Mushroom in Snellville

By Beth Volpert Johansen Pizza holds nearly endless possibilities: crusts, toppings, cheeses, sauces, thick, or thin, New York, Chicago, Snellville. Yes, Snellville. Traditions are built around pizza, and there is hardly a spot in Gwinnett that has been producing pizza longer than the Mellow Mushroom in Snellville. Ask ANY South Gwinnett graduate about pizza and they will tell you that memories have been made eating pizza in the square building formerly known as Ken’s.

That same building got mellow in 1999 when Mellow Mushroom started serving up a whole different and tasty pizza.

The tradition of memorable pizza at the Mellow Mushroom restaurant is apparent in the vintage, family (and pup) friendly vibe. Painted in fun colors and decorated with the Art of Mellow, patrons can relax, be mellow, order a favorite sip and delicious menu item, and just be. The giant wall mural that evolves from a mere mushroom gives the decor a playful touch. Add in a spacious patio (great for socially-distanced dining) that is shaded by a black awning with string lights, and you have the perfect place to enjoy time with family and friends over a cheesy hot pizza.

“The thing that really makes this restaurant special is the customers,” says Partner/General Manager Greg Merkle. “After more than twenty years, they are family.” Greg is incredibly grateful for the loyal customer base that kept right on ordering pizza during the pandemic

PAGE 14

social agenda. In a state without required party registration, independents, swing voters, Libertarians, and a lot of formerly Republican women, began to take a look at Democratic Party candidates up and down the ticket.

This brings us to today. Former State Representative Stacey Abrams effectively weaponized the issue of voter suppression as a rallying cry and then has demonstrated in now three election cycles its attraction to a broad coalition of Democratic voters. This was despite GOP Governor Perdue, signing into law advance voting, no-excuse absentee voting, motor voter automatic registration, and the Republican secretary of state creating and expanding online registration, absentee ballot drop boxes, and a host of changes that expanded voter participation.

And now a combination of terrified GOP incumbents, a surging Democratic vote in the suburbs, and the majority of advance and absentee ballots has those who believe the 2020 contest was stolen trying to prescribe DOWN voter access and methods of voting among those likely to be Democrats. A raft of legislation has been proposed, ranging from removing the drop boxes and all but ending no-excuse absentee voting to shortening the time frame for early voting. And some supporters of the current governor have started a self-styled PAC called Stop Stacey, ahead of any announced campaign for governor or another office.

If you think Stacey Abrams was effective in touting the evils of Georgia voter suppression previously, just sit back and watch when she is handed ammunition and a club by the fading GOP – actually engaging in suppression.

Additional security and virtual or voter ID in the absentee ballot application process is warranted and has broad support. Adding a four-digit identifier, such as the last four of a driver’s license or Social Security number to the cast ballot, is a relatively simple modification, identifying the actual voters on the front and back end of that process.

GOP leaders, principally House Speaker David Ralston and Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan, view more heavy-handed changes as ill-advised. If they are joined by like-minded caucus members who remember that a path to victory comes in broadening bases, not in narrowing them, the Georgia Republican Party may extend its reign. But when others listen to that little Red Devil on their shoulder whispering conspiracy theories and suggesting closing doors and shutting down access is the way to go, I have only three words: Don’t do it.

Crane is the senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane.

More information at www.CSICrane.com while he and Owner Barbara Rosselle figured out how to manage the new business model.

“Getting the texting service and signs coordinated gave us some growing pains,” he says, “but after the first month, it ran very smoothly. No matter what, I couldn’t let this business fail. We had to get creative just like any other business.”

Remaining true to the mellow vibes was hard for staff and leadership, but once the curbside service’s new rhythm was in full swing, things began to run smoothly. Greg and Barbara’s latest challenge to remaining mellow is the gradual reopening of the common dining areas. “People are still leery about being in public, but they are also ready to be a part of the community again,” says Greg. “We are working to make sure our inside dining and outdoor patio options fit what our customers want.” To that end, reopening the doors has presented new challenges. Staff has to be increased, traditionally fresh beer options have to be ordered and maintained for taste, and delivery orders have to keep pace with a change in business.

Even though 2021 has brought a new set of challenges to all restaurants, Greg and Barbara are committed to providing the freshest, most mellow experience to their customer base. The building itself carries with it a long-standing history of customer service and steaming hot, cheesy delights.

COVID-19 isn’t going to change that. “I grew up watching Cheers,” says Greg. “At the end of the day, I want this place to be just like that – a community where I know everybody, and they know us.”

More information at www.mellowmushroom.com/location/ga-snellville-2000-main-ste-30078/

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Mar ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Soccer Player Stella Allen

By Emily Rubin Stella Allen started playing soccer at just three years of age. She grew up with a ball at her feet and always played soccer in her yard.

Her dad’s passion for the sport is what originally drew her to soccer, but she also loves the team aspect of it. She loves the feeling of the team coming together to celebrate after scoring a goal.

“It’s not an individual sport; everyone has to contribute to the win,” Stella said. “I never thought I would make so many friends from just one sport that I grew up playing.”

Stella is a junior at Brookwood High School and plays attacking midfielder for the school team as well as club team Elite Clubs National League, the highest level for girls’ soccer. She has nine goals and three assists so far this season. In her seasons before the pandemic, Stella had 40 goals and 15 assists.

Regionally ranked in the South Atlantic region, Stella has finished in first or second place in club seasons every year, and has also been to nationals in California every year.

Top Drawer ranked Stella as a three-star athlete, and she recently made the Super Six list for Gwinnett Prep Sports.

“It’s a huge honor, and I was really excited because normally juniors don’t get that,” Stella said.

On top of that, Stella is a positive athlete nominee. She also made state, region, and county team for high school soccer.

Stella’s favorite game memory is an Elite Eight for high school soccer game. Her team was down 1-0 with five minutes left in the game. It was a home game, and Stella remembers many people were watching.

“All of a sudden thirty people come in and start cheering us on,” Stella said. “I remember getting the ball and crossing it into my friend Sydney Farr, and she scores with like five minutes to go.”

The score was 1-1 and the game went into overtime. With two minutes left, Stella passed the ball to another teammate who scored again.

“We won the game, and it was so cool because everyone was there and everyone came onto the field and was

jumping with us,” Stella said. “I would never forget that. It was just so much fun.”

The experience showed her how amazing it is to play for her community and how Brookwood is a family.

Outside of soccer, Stella is a member of Brookwood High School’s Beta Club. She also enjoys volunteering in the Crews Middle School PE class whenever she can. She says she loves working with the kids.

Stella tries to keep a structured schedule to balance online school, homework, soccer, volunteering, and working out. Sometimes she tries to get a workout in during her lunch period so she has time to do her homework after practice.

“I try to get everything done during the day so I have my night to do whatever I want,” Stella said.

In the future, she plans on playing college soccer. She has a goal of playing in a Division 1 program.

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Doggos and Their People Continued from page 9 start whining before we even turn on Old Snellville Road.” Tucker and Roxy act like they are ecstatic to be there, especially Tucker, who is known to bound around to everyone. Roxy, who is more timid than Tucker, likes to pick out one other dog and play with that puppy pal the whole time she visits. “You get to where you see the same dogs and the same people,” Stacy says, “so it lets you get to know the regulars that come. I love that!”

Some of Gwinnett’s dog parks include: Alexander Park, Graves Park, Harbins Park, Lenora Park, McDaniel Farm Park, Pinckneyville Park, Rabbit Hill Park, Ronald Reagan Park, and Settles Bridge Park. For a full listing, visit GwinnettCounty.com where the latest guidelines can be found regarding toys, water, and the number of people allowed at one time because of COVID-19.

Another cool bit of fun can be had by knowing ahead of time just where your pup is welcome.

Many of the new breweries in Gwinnett allow dogs, as well as some restaurants. Checking a site like BringFido.com can give you a good idea of where you and your fur-baby can hang out.

Finding ways to enjoy being around other people during the COVID-19 pandemic is undoubtedly a challenge. Taking advantage of good-weather days in the great outdoors is one way to lift the spirits of humans and beasts alike.

Mar ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 15

Hope for Challenging Times: Meet Jarad Turner

By Amy Ney “Great things come in the most challenging times,” Jarad Turner, Director of Warrior Engagement at The Warrior Alliance, says. Turner knows all about challenging times. As a college athlete, as a parent, and as a veteran, challenging times have been plenty. But talking to Turner, one would never expect it. His encouraging attitude and advice are an inspiration.

After graduating from Alabama State, Turner worked for Southern Poverty Law Center in Montgomery, Alabama. At age twenty-six, he enlisted in the US Army. He laughs about being an “old guy” in the service. “After 9/11, I was deployed twice in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom,” Turner said. “But due to the injuries I sustained on my second deployment, I was medically evacuated to Land Stuhl Medical Center in Germany and underwent multiple surgeries, including two to my elbow, four on my shoulder, and two on my jaw.”

Although the Army was able to take care of his physical injuries, the Army, at that time, was insufficient in addressing his mental health and brain injuries. Turner retired in 2010. He began working at the Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). The challenges Turner faced from the injuries continued. “I was working at the Atlanta VAMC at the time,” he said, “but the facility itself was so outdated. Really great people, but it is a broken place. And I realized I could not stay there because it was so frustrating, and it broke my heart.” Atlanta’s VA hospital ranks in the bottom three in the US of all Veterans’ Hospitals.

Then, in 2012, Turner learned about Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI), and his own injuries he had sustained in service. “Having TBI was a daily struggle,” he said. “I knew that there was something wrong, but I could not figure out what it was. I physically looked well, but I thought I was losing my mind.” The VA Hospital had prescribed so many medications, he developed ulcers from the potent combination. Fortunately, Turner found the SHARE Military Initiative at Shepherd Center in Atlanta.

The Shepherd Center is a private, not-forprofit hospital specializing in medical treatment, research, and rehabilitation for people with spinal cord injury, brain injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis, spine and chronic pain, and other neuromuscular conditions. In order to serve the post-9/11 veterans suffering from TBI and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Shepherd Center established the SHARE Military Initiative, a com-

prehensive program designed to address the silent and invisible injuries of military service. Turner was among the first to receive treatment in that program. “While mental health care challenges are a global issue,” he said, “the SHARE program has had tremendous success with the effective treatment of TBI and PTSD.” After graduating from SHARE, Turner joined the Shepherd’s Men. “Shepherd’s Men is an organization comprised of dedicated patriots, committed to creating advocacy and opportunity for post-9/11 American veteran heroes who have been affected by the hidden injuries of war,” Turner explained. “Shepherd’s Men serve these noble warriors by means of outreach, empowerment, and funding of treatment.”

Being from Long Island, Turner commonly reflects upon the events of 9/11/2001. The mobilization of thousands of US troops had resulted in the very injuries the program at the Shepherd’s successfully treats today.

“Since 2014,” Turner said, “Shepherd’s Men have engaged in annual multi-state runs to raise awareness and funding for the program.” In 2017, the run began at the Flight 93 National Memorial in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. From there, Shepherd’s Men ran a half marathon for eight consecutive days, wearing ninety-three pounds of gear the first day to represent flight 93, and then wearing twenty-two-pound flak vests and armor plates to symbolize and honor the deaths of the on-average twenty-two US veterans who commit suicide every day. Veterans account for nearly twenty percent of all deaths by suicide among US adults.

Turner was instrumental in forming Warrior Alliance, an organization connecting veterans to the resources that they need to succeed in civilian life. “In 2017, I met Bernie Marcus and now we have several partners, such as the Blank Family, the Cox Foundation, the Home Depot Foundation, and several others,” he said. “With these and other partnerships, the Warrior Alliance is set to reach and assist 5,000 service people this year.”

Turner has three children: Alexandria, who is a nursing student in Birmingham; Jarad Jr., a freshman at Parkview High School; and Christina, an 8th grader at Trickum Middle School.

He has also been involved in developing the lacrosse program at Mountain Park. Turner played lacrosse and football in high school, and he received several scholarships to play football in college.

During National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month, Turner teaches about suicide and educates others on how we can help those who may be struggling. “Most importantly,” he said, “we strongly urge veterans who are struggling to do a brave thing: seek care, because PTSD is treatable, and treatment works.”

More information at https://www.thewarrioralliance.org/ or http://www.shepherdsmen. com

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Hometown Brag: LeLoni Smith – South Gwinnett High School 2011

By K. Coats Over the years, Gwinnett County Public Schools has produced some pretty amazing people. From actors to lawyers, from professional athletes to business owners, Gwinnett students have surely made their mark in our little part of the world. So now is the chance to brag about some of those who have accomplished all the great things we hoped they would when we sent them off at graduation with a diploma and a smile.

Our first Hometown Brag features Miss LeLoni Smith. To see what she has done, just turn on Netflix and head over to the original documentaries. LeLoni is the junior creative executive that helps produce them for all the world to enjoy! “On the creative side of things, I work in development,” she explains. “I take pitches for various projects; I work with various production companies on different doc projects that will be released on service, and I help with outreach and inclusion efforts.”

Born in St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, LeLoni spent her youth between there and Snellville. She graduated from South Gwinnett High School in 2011 and the University of Georgia in 2014, where she double-majored in journalism and Romance languages (Spanish and Portuguese). During her time as a student at South Gwinnett, this Comet more than made her mark. Student Council, Beta Club, National Honor Society, Comets in Action, and AP Scholars Club are just a few of the ways LeLoni was involved. Her smile was infectious, and she was always an example of graciousness and positivity. Now she’s taken her leadership ability and her smile and traveled to a place as different from Snellville or her Virgin Islands as could be – Los Angeles.

When asked about those differences, LeLoni, as usual, focused on the positive, saying, “There is a long list of differences between Snellville and Los Angeles. Since I’m an island girl, I love seeing palm trees, living close to the beach, and the sunny warm LA weather.” But she does admit it can be hard being so far away from family and navigating the differing time zones.

Over the years, she has learned to be flexible. “I’ve learned to not make concrete plans because life is so unpredictable and there is beauty in the unknown,” she says. “When I was younger, my main goal was to find a job that makes me happy so that I never have to work a day in my life. Now that I have accomplished my goal, my next goal is to make sure that I’m healthy and happy in all aspects of my life.” LeLoni would also like to eventually create a documentary that wins an Oscar. So, she isn’t done making Gwinnett proud by a long shot.

In fact, “Taking a leap of faith at 21 and moving to Los Angeles by myself,” she says, remains one of her proudest accomplishments. “It was a really scary move, but it worked out in the end.” When asked what is her advice to other students considering the world beyond Gwinnett, she says, “Take the risk and try something new. You tend to grow the most out of uncomfortable situations. The good thing is that you can always go back home.”

We will always be happy to see you, LeLoni. Be sure not to stay away too long. Snellville and South Gwinnett will be right here waiting for you. You make us proud.

Blackbird Farms Brewery Continued from page 8 says all are welcome to use the space as their own during the day. Anyone who is interested in using the space can contact the brewery to learn more.

“I want this to be a place for the community to spend time and be part of the culture,” said Matt. “Our dream is for the community to take ownership of the space and understand that it is meant for them to use.”

Thanks to their priority of making the brewery a true staple of the community, Matt also hopes that it can be the catalyst for other fun new businesses to open.

“We are one of the first stones to turn over,” he said, noting that opening a local business often creates a ripple effect in which more local restaurants and shops begin to spring up around the neighborhood.

And for those who may not drink beer, the brewery offers its own locally brewed root beer. Matt learned how to make world-class root beer in Wisconsin in his early brewpub days. His daughter Claxton even named it. One evening while Matt was tucking her into bed, Claxton said, “Daddy, I have a great idea. Let’s call the root beer, ‘Little Llama Root Beer.’” It will now be a featured beverage at the brewery.

If you are ready to taste some delicious, unique beer (and root beer), or if you just want a place where you can be part of the community, be first in line when Blackbird Farms Brewery opens.

More information at blackbirdfarmsbrewery.com

Mar ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 17

The earlier kids start learning basic financial skills, the better their financial health will be in the long run. When it comes to teaching kids about money, caregivers are asking for help.

According to a Chase survey, 32% of parents in the US with children ages 8 to 14 are uncomfortable speaking about finances with their own children, and 46% are looking for additional resources to help encourage good financial habits.

Traditionally, kids learn about money from shopping with adults and having related conversations. While discussions are an important part of learning about finances, online shopping has changed how kids experience spending. “Families are juggling so many more responsibilities today than ever before,” said Anastasia Morgan-Gans, a Chase executive focused on family financial health, “so it’s understandably more complicated to find opportunities to teach financial wellness to children or to find hands-on purchasing moments to talk about the value of money.”

Fortunately, new tools are helping meet the changing needs of parents and their children. For example, the free Chase First Banking account is designed to help families develop healthy financial habits by putting parents in control and giving kids and teens the freedom to learn how to earn, spend, and save money.

Through the Chase Mobile® app, parents can assign chores and provide allowance, set amounts and locations of where kids can spend money using a debit card, and help children

reach savings goals. Kids interact with the app on their end, too, checking off assigned chores when completed and seeing when their allowance is paid. They can also see how much they can spend and where, as well as look at their savings goals.

This type of digital tool makes financial literacy discussions easier and brings family money management into the digital age, engaging kids in meaningful ways. In addition to adopting useful tools, it is important to have ongoing conversations about finances. Morgan-Gans suggests starting with some rules for a family contract when it comes to having access to an account: • I will spend responsibly and discuss what acceptable purchases are with my parent • I will make a savings goal, discuss it with my parent, and work toward it • I will not use my debit card on websites or at stores my parent does not approve of • I will always keep my card in a safe place and discuss the best place to keep it with my parent • I will not share my PIN number or account number with anyone • I will not post pictures of my card or app on social media or share them with my friends • I will never go to an ATM alone and will only use ATMs inside a bank “These tools can help guide parents, so they have the confidence to teach kids about bank accounts and spending,” says Morgan Gans. “It’s like an account with training wheels.” It is never too early to begin learning about safe money habits. (BPT)

Clothes Story Exhibit Opens with Historic Fashion Show

Ryan’s Remarks Continued from page 7

By Beth Volpert Johansen

ing. Right?

I hope we can give each other the benefit of the doubt, love more, listen better, judge less, care more, smile, and be patient. We all need to be loved and told it is all going to be okay.

IT WILL. This, too, SHALL pass. Trust me, I do not profess to have mastered all these things, and I work on them each day. Someone I was interviewing recently said it best: BE KIND. Despite all we are still facing, we will get there. But we must continue to do so together.

We must remain UNITED and not become UNTIED. Finally, we must be extra careful if we are posting when we are sad, hungry, angry, lonely, tired, frustrated, confused, bitter, overwhelmed, etc.

So, to all my family, friends, colleagues, and this community, you are the best. We can do this, we are doing this, we will do this – and we will prevail together! Keep Pushing Forward.

Your support and partnership mean more than I can ever tell you. I wish all of you the best, and thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

Digital Tools Can Help Kids Learn Safe Money Habits

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Daring fashion shows are not limited to the runways of Paris. Historically speaking, the ladies of Norcross have been as haute couture as those sashaying about London, Paris, and Milan for as many years as the city has been in existence (1870). “We have found,” says Norcross’ Downtown District Manager Cate Kitchen, “even though Norcross was considered a ‘resort’ town on the outskirts of Atlanta, the ladies who lived there took their fashions seriously.”

The historic fashion show that marks the opening of Clothes Story: An Exhibition will be narrated by Curator Kenneth Green. Two showings at 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. will take place on Friday, March 26th. “When Kenneth is talking to you about the clothing, you can tell the history of it is in his heart and soul,” explains Cate.

“Models will wear some of the fashions to show how the clothing looks in movement. It is a different experience than looking at them in a display.”

Norcross’ website describes the event as “…a family-friendly exhibition experience that celebrates women in their homes and communities. These stories showcase their resiliency, strength, fortitude and power as trailblazers and leaders. Highlighting women between the years of 1880-1950, the narrative is supported by the clothing that they wore (https://www. norcrossga.net/924/Culture ).”

Adding to the historical aspect of the clothing itself will be the event facility. Historian Gene Ramsay is familiar with the building known as The Rectory where the exhibit and evening events will be held. “In the late 1800s this property was owned by Willian Anderson Greer, who had a shop in Norcross that manufactured wood products such as shingles and furniture,” explains Ramsay. “Dr. W. P. Walker purchased the house in the spring of 1908. It was eventually acquired by the Methodist Church (when their sanctuary was next door), but [sold] after the Methodists moved to a larger facility on Beaver Ruin Road in the 1960s. The city bought the property about 15 years ago, and the building has been called The Rectory in recent years, pointing back to a time when it served as part of a Catholic church and the clergy used the building.”

“The exhibit, supported by a grant to the city, will provide patrons with an enjoyable evening,” says Cate. “We will have hors d’oeuvres along with champagne and wine available. It will be a great place to begin a night out on the town here in Norcross where we hope people will stay for dinner at one of our restaurants that are well within walking distance of The Rectory.”

The city plans to incorporate the exhibit into the 2021 Tour of Homes in December. “This will be a neat way to close out the tour,” says Cate.

RSVP at 678-421-2048/2049

PAGE 18

Benchmark Physical Therapy Continued from page 12 Physical Therapy and Drayer Physical Therapy have set the standard for physical therapy practices everywhere. Patients can expect to be treated well and to find a level of care that doesn’t just address their symptoms, but works to find the cause behind it all.

If you’re ready to get started with physical therapy, it’s easy. Just head to their website and find the location that’s closest to you. This team of excellent therapists and staff members are ready and waiting to heal what makes you hurt.

More information at https://benchmark.urpt.com/

Learning Lessons Continued from page 8 and guide them toward literacy mastery. But remember, every child learns at a different pace!

Don’t fret if your little one is taking longer than others to read and write. It will all happen when he or she is developmentally ready.

Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com.

Winter Farmers Markets Continued from page 10 In addition to getting out with the family to see neighbors in an open-air setting, Snellville welcomes canine companions to the market. “We’re also very dog friendly,” says Gretchen.

“We see therapy dogs that are brought to the market regularly as part of their training as well as canines that simply love the Saturday morning outing.”

Enjoying fresh air and fresh, locally-sourced products at a local Farmers Market is one great way to shake off the winter blues. Each of the markets follows strict CDC guidelines with patrons and vendors both required to wear masks.

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

Mar ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Leading the Way in Online Learning: Gwinnett Online Campus

By Traci Sanders With so many schools shifting to an online presence due to the pandemic, virtual learning has become a huge industry. I recently spoke with the principal of Gwinnett Online Campus, Dr. Christopher Ray, to find out what makes this school so unique.

Gwinnett Online Campus (GOC) is the oldest online learning program in Georgia, serving students since 1999. This year marks 10 years of GOC operating as a full-time school for grades 4-12 and developing its own digital content using traditional course delivery as well as a new and innovative personalized learning approach. “It’s changing the dynamic of learning,” Dr. Ray said. “Schools will be able to personalize instruction for each student. It’s a trend that is showing success.”

With core values that focus on exceptional quality instruction, service, collaboration, professionalism, and continuous quality improvement, the mission of GOC is to enhance the learning of students in a world-class virtual environment while empowering them with twenty-first century knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the local, national, and global community.

“Education is always changing,” Dr. Ray said, “and what we do here at GOC is leading the way.”

GOC offers a flexible learning environment with extensive support from teachers and counselors who offer individualized instruction and a full range of career-focused and technicalbased courses, as well as foreign language and academic electives. “The days of teaching just one way are over,” Dr. Ray explained. “Our method allows teachers to see in real time what students need. If someone is falling behind, there is an opportunity to pull them out for extra instruction right away. Or if a student is excelling, they can work ahead without it affecting the flow of the class.”

Students are provided a rich learning experience through engaging daily online lessons.

Face-to-face interactive labs, which are livestreamed and recorded, are offered one day a week for grades 6-12 and two days a week for grades 4-5. Students may choose to attend in person or virtually, and work at their own pace and schedule. GOC also offers a variety of programs and clubs that encourage social interaction, leadership, and teamwork.

GOC’s vision is to be a world-class education provider to Gwinnett County students grades 4-12 for whom anywhere and anytime access to instruction is an optimal alternative. With so many awards, resources, and a staff dedicated to the mission, that vision appears to be coming to fruition.

More information at https://www.gcpsk12.org/gwinnettonline.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE FROM THE COMFORT OF HOME. Telehealth offers flexibility to patients through video conferencing, where a licensed physical therapist will work one-on-one with patients to assess their condition and provide real-time feedback. Patients can utilize telehealth services full-time or as part of a hybrid model with in-clinic visits.

Call 1-866-4TELEPT to schedule a telehealth appointment or visit

benchmarkpt.com/telehealth / drayerpt.com/telehealth

BUFORD I-85 P: (770) 271-4413

LAWRENCEVILLE P: (678) 985-0238

LILBURN – BEAVER RUIN P: (678) 691-7163

GRAYSON P: (678) 376-0213

LILBURN P: (770) 925-9210

SNELLVILLE P: (678) 344-7197

SNELLVILLE

SNELLVILLE* P: (678) 987-0250

CENTERVILLE HWY 124

P: (470) 365-2135

*Drayer Physical Therapy Location

Mar ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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

PAGE 19

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