MAY 2017 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine
Our Town GWINNETT
Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker
Meet the team at The NETT Church, see story on page 5
8 10 13 17
Restaurant Review: Matthews Cafeteria in Tucker SportsTalk: Coach Henson & Parkview Boys Track & Field Girlfriends Cancer Foundation: Making a Difference Trickum Middle School Talk: Messages to Humanity
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On the Cover: The NETT Church Celebrates a Milestone while Embracing a Promising Future By Kim Hill “God has been good!” Reverend Rodrigo Cruz beams with excitement as he shares the blessings he has witnessed in the NETT Church’s first year of existence. Fulfilling a God-given vision to be servant hearts in the Lilburn community, the church is celebrating its anniversary as a passionate, multi-cultural congregation that encourages people to worship God while embracing their diversity and at the same time recognizing that we are one human race. The church, which has been meeting at Parkview High School, holds services three Sundays a month, with an additional Sunday dedicated to missions. Reverend Cruz says the monthly Mission Sunday is modeled after Acts 1:8, the verse where Jesus calls the apostles to be witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. “Our interpretation is that our Jerusalem would be our immediate surroundings, like the city of Lilburn. Our Judea would be a broader space, like the state of Georgia. Then Samaria, would be close geographically but maybe racially or politically a place we do not relate to.” As for reaching to the ends of the earth, the church partners with causes like Stop Hunger Now, Rice Bowls, and other mission agencies around the world. The Nett also partners with 17 different local non-profits, and participates in random acts of love, like handing out individually wrapped rolls of toilet paper in store parking lots, giving out bottles of water at street corners, and providing a free carwash for the community. There is no fee charged and no donations are taken. These actions are not intended to bring people to the church, but rather to just have them experience God’s love with no strings attached. In its year of existence, the church has been
able to provide over $20,000 in assistance in the community and around the world. Reverend Cruz and the leadership team try to make services relevant to the people. Each service includes music by a worship band and a time that allows people to bring their gifts to God in any form, whether as a work of art or singing or dancing. “Like the widow, they bring what they have,” says Reverend Cruz. It is a time where they can express themselves, whether through stomp, rap, or bluegrass. “Then we try to bring the biblical stories in a way that relates to them,” he says. In June, the church will move to the Berkmar United Methodist Church campus and join with its congregation to become the NETT of Berkmar. Reverend Cruz is thankful for the vision of the United Methodist Church. He sees unlimited potential as the two congregations join forces to become “Better Together” for the community, honoring Berkmar’s history and impact on the community, and bringing Nett’s “DNA” and culture to the church. He says that while the school has been a blessing, and it has been exciting to see people come to Jesus in a public space, he looks forward to the next season of the life of the church. He believes the convenience of a permanent space will allow more time and energy to be spent helping people to know God and to love Jesus. “God has been gracious. It is amazing to see where we have come having started last year with a handful of people.” The events of the past year bring reflection on how to measure success as a church. Reverend Cruz says a lot of churches look at people in the pews and money in the bank as a bench-
mark. He says Nett’s leadership team is working towards moving from being a successful church to being a fruitful church and a faithful church. “Our benchmarks are: Can we impact people’s lives?” he explains. “By doing what God is telling us to do, we can influence this city for good.” Acknowledging there will be some growing pains as the two groups combine, Reverend Cruz says there is a clear vision that the church exists to help enable nations to experience transformation together. “One of our core values is integrity – if we are not reaching out to all, then our mission is not complete.” While the idea of a Mission Sunday is new to many, Reverend Cruz has seen excitement about the challenge, and when members say, “You mean we can just close the church doors once a month and go out and love people?” he tells them, “Yes, we can.” Of his role he says, “If I am not stretching you in your faith, then I am not doing my job as your pastor. I am not here to hold people’s hands while we wait for Jesus to come back. There is too much brokenness around us for us to be passive.” More information at www.thenettchurch.com
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IN THIS ISSUE 5 On the Cover: The NETT Church Celebrates a Milestone while Embracing a Promising Future 7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion 7 One on One with JMJ Home Care Services: A Passion to Serve 8 Restaurant Review: Matthews Cafeteria in Tucker 9 Berens Frozen Custard Has Been Making Smiles for over 40 years 10 Sports Talk: Top Performances Earn Parkview Track Region Title 11 Enjoy Your Staycation in Snellville with Weekends of Family Fun!
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12 Learning Lessons: Summer Time Learning 13 The Girlfriends Cancer Foundation: Raising Money for Kids with Cancer 15 Getting Schooled with Brookwood High: Ending Hunger with Creativity 16 Popadoodle: Where Children’s Imagination Meets Creativity 17 Trickum Middle School Talk: Messages to Humanity 21 One on One with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation 21 Realty Reality: Is My Home In “Selling Condition”? 22 Travel Tales: Eating My Way Through Northern Spain
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From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion By Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanSauers
Nearly everything we read, listen to, and watch in 2017 is tied to media sensationalism. And it is often negative in nature. We hear of political scandals, crimes, health epidemics, and other tensions. Media is programmed to “shock us” into listening. Why do we seldom hear about a neighbor helping a stranger change their tire on the side of the road, or volunteers raising money for cancer research? Why don’t we see more profiles on local law and emergency heroes who risk their lives for us each day? I will tell you why. It is not considered to be the “sexy sensationalistic news headline” that grabs a person’s attention. But, here is the problem with that line of thinking in 2017. People are sick and tired of all negative (doom and gloom news) all the time. We have two choices in that we can UNITE or UNTIE. The words are almost the same except for a few letters moving between them. UNITED is what this community is all about (coming together and finding common ground). In contrast, what we are bombarded with from most media is a world (that is falling apart and divided) or UNTIED. The people I know simply want a better life for themselves and their family. This is where we come in. We supply original local content that you do not get anywhere else. You get it in print, online, and through our social channels. Your news, your way! We appreciate your support more than you know. The people I know enjoy being part of this community and many have amazing stories of what they are doing to make it a better place. We never focus (and never will) on the negative stories that serve no purpose other than to scare and divide. Does this mean our community is perfect? Of course not. There is no such thing on this earth. However, in all my travels I can find few places that have a greater sense of community than we do right here. I am thankful for this community and our (3F) focus of…faith, families, and friendships. We may have our differences, but we look out for one another first. Quite frankly, I see more of what we have in common (UNITED) than what we do not (UNTIED). Where we work, live, and play is special. Thanks for allowing us to continue sharing and being part of the story of my town, your town, OUR TOWN.
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By Our Town Staff Kathy Farriba’s special connection with the elderly began early in life. Cooking with her grandparents, learning how to knit from her elderly neighbors, and listening to the life experience stories of the nursing home residents in her community were some of her favorite activities during her childhood and teen years. These interactions sparked a lifelong passion for senior care and a vision to provide them with the best possible physical and spiritual care. Four years ago Farriba took this care for her community and developed a successful home care business in JMJ Home Care Services. After two years of dedication and hard work, JMJ Home Care Services received their license from the GA Department of Community Health to provide inhome care for seniors. During that time Farriba also earned her certification as a Certified Nursing Assistant and learned the ins and outs of the senior care industry. “The variety of running a business and caring for seniors is one of my favorite parts of this work,” she said. Being a part of the community is a strength for Farriba – who has been a resident of Lawrenceville for the past thirty years – because it creates a connection to the surrounding area and an awareness of the need for outstanding caregivers for her clients. When Farriba opened JMJ Home Care Service, she placed an emphasis on creating a personal one-on-one experience for her clients. Now as the business grows, there is a continuous desire to epitomize the word “care.” “Building my business from the ground up, rather than buying into a franchise, allowed me to personally design the vision for JMJ,” Farriba said. JMJ is dedicated to providing superior care for its clients, treating them with respect and meeting not only their physical needs, but their spiritual needs as well, which is very important to Farriba as she is a strong woman of faith. Some of the services provided include companionship, light housekeeping, assisting with dressing and grooming, and transportation. “Working every day toward a Continued on page 18
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By The Picky Peaches--Gaye, Julie, and Susan Opened in 1955, Matthews Cafeteria has been serving home-style cooking to generations of families in Tucker and surrounding areas for sixty-two years. For a restaurant to survive this long means they must be doing something right. Located near the railroad tracks in downtown Tucker, Matthews Cafeteria is easy to find. Lines? Yes, they usually do have a line, but don’t let that scare you away! It’s a testament to their popularity. Besides, the line moves quickly. Since the menu changes daily, visit their website often to have an idea of what you want to order. But even with a chance to preview the menu online, it is still tough to decide what to get. Everything looks so delicious! The decor is clean and comfortable. How can anyone object to red and white checkered tablecloths? We’ve eaten at some luxuriously-decorated restaurants whose cuisine didn’t taste nearly as good as the food we had at Matthews Cafeteria. We’ll take the delicious food over pretentious decor any day. It’s the kind of place that makes Peach 2 declare, “That’s the best sweet tea I’ve ever had!” The Fried Chicken is crispy, juicy, tasty and tender. In other words – delicious. It’s such a crowd pleaser, that it’s on the dinner menu every night. Their version of Chicken Pot Pie is the consummate comfort food. Made with tender chicken, green peas, green beans, and corn, it’s so satisfying. The flaky crust is literally its crowning glory. Real mashed potatoes are the perfect side dish. If you like Stuffed Bell Pepper, you’ll love this one. It’s a savory, old-fashioned combination of rice, tomatoes, ground beef, and onions. It was incredibly tender and flavorful, just like the ones from our childhood. The Side Dishes are spoonfuls of fond memories. When was the last time you had red or green Jell-O with pieces of pears congealed within? Or how about green peas with a potato cooked in them? Or deviled eggs? The turnip greens were cooked and seasoned just like Grandma’s. They even offer all the fixin’s you’d get at Grandma’s, including fresh chopped onions for your pinto beans. The melt-in-your-mouth Yeast Rolls are the best we’ve had in a very long time. Save room for dessert. It would be a shame to miss out on a taste of these homemade delights. Of course, we have a soft spot for Peach Cobbler, and this one is the perfect mix of peaches, flour, butter, sugar, and vanilla. Not a fan of cobbler? Try the Strawberry Shortcake. Made with fresh strawberries, pound cake, and whipped topping, it is the ideal ending to a truly satisfying meal. Even though we went for lunch, we’d be remiss if we neglected to mention breakfast. A police officer who eats there on a regular basis said, “Breakfast is a whole different level. Get the pancakes – they’re made to order; or try the biscuits with sawmill gravy.” He also indicated that the line tends to go out the door during breakfast hours. What does that tell you? Matthews Cafeteria is located at 2299 Main Street in Tucker. Hours are Monday-Friday, breakfast 5 a.m.-10 a.m.; lunch 10:30 a.m.-3:00 p.m.; and dinner 3:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. They are closed on Saturday, but they are open on Sunday from 10:30 a.m.3:00 p.m. Free Wi-Fi. More information at matthewscafeteria.com This article was adapted with permission from The Picky Peaches’ Hidden Gem Restaurant Challenge. Visit pickypeaches.com for more great places to eat and fun things to do.
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Berens Frozen Custard Has Been Making Smiles for over 40 years
Gwinnett’s premier event destination for 20 years!
By Heidi Campbell In 1976, the original Berens Frozen Custard shop opened on Buford Highway in DeKalb County. Forty-one years later, Mark Berens continues to run the family business started by his father, Don, who grew up in New York where frozen custard was popular. After relocating to Atlanta, Don left his engineering career to open up his first frozen custard shop in Doraville. “People come in and ask if we are the same shop as the one on Buford Highway in the 70s,” says Mark Berens, “and I tell them that yes, I’m that 12-year-old who was behind the counter!” Frozen custard, a premium ice cream, is actually easy to distinguish for anyone who has tried it. While custard has the same initial ingredients as ice cream, a small amount of egg yolks is added to the mix during the pasteurization process, which gives it the uncanny smooth texture. Because Berens makes the custard fresh every two hours, they are able to offer three flavors at a time. They make vanilla and chocolate every day, as well as a “Flavor of the Day.” By having over twenty other flavors, Berens rotates a different flavor of the day, with the most popular being butter pecan. “One of our unique flavors is one my father created over forty years ago. It’s a pistachio pineapple frozen custard that has become one of our signature flavors,” shares Berens. “I also have fun occasionally introducing a new mystery flavor. In March I invented a lavender honey flavor!” Customers who come in not only purchase cones and cups of their frozen custard, but many regulars come in for the pints that are available in various flavors. Perhaps the most popular item on the menu is the “concrete,” which is vanilla custard that is slowly blended with one of many toppings. It has this name because it is thick like concrete, but tastes much better! Many also order custom-made frozen custard cakes for special occasions. All of their brownies (for brownie hot fudge sundaes), frozen custard pies and cakes, Belgian waffles (for waffle sundaes), and berry toppings are handcrafted right in the shop. Berens Frozen Custard also offers a “5 Star Loyalty” program in order to reward return visits. Customers can earn points and redeem them for free products. One customer has already logged over two thousand points. According to Mark’s wife, Debbie, “Mark has a true following. People come from DeKalb, Rockdale, Woodstock, Cumming, and inside the perimeter to get our frozen custard. They will pass by other ice cream shops!” Customers can sit inside or enjoy a spacious patio. The patio also serves as a great spot for all sorts of team parties and birthday celebrations in nice weather. Berens enjoys getting to know his customers and his community. He got to know one couple quite well over the years. When the woman’s husband passed away, her son brought her back into the shop. “He drove her all the way here from Winder on black cherry day,” explained Berens, “in order to cheer her up. It is these kinds of connections that mean so much to us.” Community involvement is a priority for the Berens’ family business, and they participate in numerous local events as well as philanthropic events to benefit the Side By Side Clubhouse and the First Baptist Church of Snellville. They support the local elementary school with Friday Folder giveaways and contributions to “Bingo Nights,” and, in season, they donate 10% of their Monday night profits to individual charities. They also serve custard to children with special needs who attend Camp Twin Lakes each summer. “I’m in the ice cream business because I want people to be happy,” explains Berens. “Giving away some frozen custard is a small price to pay to get a smile.” Berens address is 1132 Athens Hwy #210, Grayson. More information at www.berenscustard.com
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Superb Individual Performances Earn Parkview Boys Region Title
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Parkview’s boys track and field team cruised to its first region championship in five years in impressive fashion. Because track and field is an individual sport where student athletes compete and earn individual honors, this team honor means that “… the kids did their individual parts to accumulate enough points for the team to win this championship,” said Head Coach Matt Henson. The most amazing aspect about this championship, according to Coach Henson, is that “we have a qualifier in each of the 16 events for the sectional meet with the exception of one. This is remarkable, and I am really excited for our kids.” Though there is no “I” in team, the “I” in individual counts for the team in track and field. When senior and team captain Demarius Smith’s individual performance was needed, he put the team before his individual accomplishment and finished a race, despite the onsite of an injury, so he could earn points and be available to run his best in the 4x100m relay race. Prior to the relays, Smith already won the region championship in the 100m (10.74), an event whose school record (10.66) he had shattered earlier this season. As the anchor for this very explosive relay team, Smith, along with Malik Washington, Amir Harris, and Justin Long, finished in first place. “Demarius is as good a sprinter as we have ever had, and a very unselfish kid. He is a four-year product, and really came into his own this season,” Henson added. Smith has earned a scholarship to the University of Cumberlands as a dual-sport athlete in football and track and field. A triple threat for the Panthers in sprinting, relays, and field events is Harris, who has committed to Troy University for track and field this fall. Harris is the school’s record holder in the 200m (21.16), and this year’s region and county champion in the long jump. In the regional meet, he anchored another Parkview championship relay team in the 4x400m that also consisted of Keith Williams, Smith, and Long, whom Coach Henson describes as a “relay beast.” Harris and Long finished second and third in both the 200m and 400m, respectively. “He [Harris] is the best multi-event kid in the state who qualified for five events last year at state and should qualify in five events this year, too,” said Henson. Parkview’s dominance in the relay events continued with a second place finish in the 4x800m race that featured Jared Causey, Spencer Lail, Jarrett Penn, and Tristan Autry. Emilio Arthur highlighted the hurdle races with a second place finish in the 110m hurdles. After finishing second in the 1600m and third in the 3200m, junior distance runner Christian Corsello qualified for both events for the second consecutive year. In field events, sophomore Brian Hauch, who holds Parkview’s school record at 15-1 feet in the pole vault, was a region champion in the same event after clearing 14-03 feet. Rounding out the top three finishes in the remaining field events were Tarris Bouie - second place in the high jump, Matt Chavers - second place in the long jump, Charles Jenkins - second place in the shot put, and Justin Henry - third place in the triple jump. As a team, the Parkview boys earned 196 points in 16 events, which were 92 points more than the second place team. On another note, the Parkview’s girls team finished in third place in the region meet behind senior long sprinter Jania Williams, who qualified in the 200m and 400m. Williams will be a track and field student athlete at the University of Alabama-Huntsville next year. More information at www.parkviewtrack.net.
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Enjoy Your Staycation in Snellville with Weekends of Family Fun!
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By Kelly McAloon Can’t get to the beach? We will bring the beach to you at the 6th Annual Beach Blast on May 20th as Oak Road is transformed into a beach with 70 tons of sand. Come have fun with STAT the CAT and his furry mascot friends at 2:30 p.m. for a parade around the Towne Green. DJ Lee will keep you entertained from 2-5 p.m., followed by the Gold Standard Band from 5-7 p.m. Have tons of fun with an all day arm band for only $10, which includes inflatables, the big KAHUNA water slide, trackless train, bungee jump, and a 9-hole mini golf course. The fun doesn’t stop here. Join us on May 27th at the 4th Annual Memorial Celebration from 4 – 9 p.m. as we are reminded of the sacrifices of the men and women who valiantly and selflessly devoted themselves to defending and protecting our freedom. It’s a great way for the entire family to enjoy relics from Colonial America and, weather permitting, see a Revolutionary War Encampment. Anyone 9 years of age and older may participate in the Memorial program that starts at 5 p.m., but only if you arrive at 4 p.m. and learn the musket commands and flag etiquette taught by the Button Gwinnett Chapter Militia. Stations will be set up for kids to make their own corn husk dolls, corn cob darts, and beeswax candles. The Gwinnett Community Band will start playing patriotic music at 4:30 p.m. and throughout the program. The Live on the Lawn concert will begin at 6:30 p.m. The Ultimate Eagles Tribute – ON THE BORDER will take the stage at 6:30 p.m. and rock the Towne Green. Bring a lawn chair or blanket to sit on, and don’t forget your dancin’ shoes. At 6 p.m., Lincoln Fill Station will tap the one-of-a-kind Snellville Memorial Summer Ale that was made especially for this event by the Lincoln Fill Station and Southern Brewing Company. Food Truck Fridays are back and will be held the first Friday of each month from June through October. A variety of food trucks will be on site with music and fun and games with DJ Lee. Come out and play with the new mega-size yard games and the new 9-hole mini golf course. More information at SnellvilleEvents.com
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Learning Lessons: Summer Time Learning By Carol C. Wood Woohoo! School is almost out for the summer, so learning can stop for a while! Right? Wrong! Summer provides the BEST opportunity students have to enrich their academic skills to get ahead or to catch up on skills before the next school year. Because school has ended and teachers are not moving through additional curriculum, students have the opportunity to gain ground in their academics. During the school year, if students fall behind, they must catch up with what they have missed AND keep up with what is being taught on a day-by-day basis BOTH at the same time. This is very difficult to do and can be extremely stressful! So, give your student the opportunity to do what they cannot easily do during the school year, which is to CATCH UP or MOVE AHEAD in their academics and solve their STUDY SKILL weaknesses this summer! What can you do during summer to enrich skills or catch up in abilities? First, locate your student’s recent achievement and cognitive test scores and determine which areas they are performing below, on, or above average as compared to his/ her grade level. This is located in the column that reads GE for grade equivalency or PR for percentile. Any area(s) in which the student scored below 50 or below their grade level when the tests were administered are the ones that need remediation. These areas need attention during the summer so the student can START SCHOOL SHARP! Next, locate professional tutorial help for your child. If you will be teaching them at home, purchase the appropriate materials and work with your child on a consistent, weekly schedule. Do not allow the student to skip around within workbooks and complete the “fun” pages first, as the material is purposefully presented in a sequential order. Select a study place for each student which is equipped with the learning supplies and tools needed. If taking your child to a professional tutorial center, make sure he/she attends sessions consistently with the same professional, adult instructor who has teaching experience, utilizes nationally recognized materials, and provides individualized instruction in an environment free from distractions. Know the credentials of the instructor. Ask for references and contact them to learn about their experience with the Continued on page 18
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The Girlfriends Cancer Foundation: Raising Money for Kids with Cancer By Heidi Campbell Six years ago, a group of girlfriends got together to take part in a cancer walk to benefit the Kimberly Chance Atkins Foundation. That walk became an annual event for these friends, and they began to get together and do their own fundraiser each year, starting with an event they called “Buncos for Boobies.” After three years of this, and calling themselves “BreastFriends,” the girlfriends partnered with Summit Chase and began running their fundraiser at the clubhouse. One year ago, these same girlfriends began talking about doing even more to help their local community. “We all had people close to us who were battling cancer,” shares Moe Lawson, one of the BreastFriends. “We knew we wanted to do something great! We met often and decided that we would focus on kids who were fighting cancer. We wanted to help these kids and their families. This is how we became, officially, the Girlfriends Cancer Foundation (GCF).” The foundation is a not-for-profit organization made up of twenty volunteers and a board of directors led by President Missy Lee and Vice President Denise Price. This year, the foundation plans to expand their list of fundraising events. On May 6th, they have planned a Cinco de Mayothemed golfing event, called A Shot in the Dark, at the Summit Chase Country club. In this fun-filled evening, teams will participate in a nighttime golf scramble while enjoying some festive food and drink. The foundation will also host a Tennis Round Robin Tournament event on July 21-22, and a night of Bunco and Texas Hold’em on October 14th. “People can get involved by participating in these events,” explains Missy Lee. “All of the fees, sponsorships, and donations go towards our mission of giving to those who are fighting this dreaded disease. Our most recent Stars and Strikes Bowling tournament in March raised almost $1,200 in just a few hours.” The Girlfriends Cancer Foundation recently collaborated with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta AFLAC Cancer and Blood Disorders Center to provide hope, support, and encouragement for children and their families. They have events planned throughout the year, in order to fund “arts and craft” days, and to purchase toys like Play-Doh and Legos for the children in the hospital. They also plan to deliver GCF Care Bags – filled with things like beanie caps, water bottles, and coloring supplies – to the children who are undergoing treatment. “We’ll also provide both financial and emotional support for the families as needs are identified,” explains Lee. “At Christmas, we adopt deserving families in Gwinnett County to help provide them with a special, memorable holiday season.” The girlfriends continue to participate in the cancer walk each year, in honor of one friend who is a breast cancer survivor, a niece who was recently diagnosed, and a nephew who is facing a very rare form of cancer. In 2015, they walked for a second friend who was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. Only days after her double mastectomy and just weeks before the start of chemotherapy, she was able to be present at the walk. “At that event,” shares Lee, “the Girlfriends ended our walk by presenting her with individual flowers to create a bouquet that represented her successful fight, and our dedication to helping others.” The motto of the Girlfriends Cancer Foundation is to give so others can live. While coordinating efforts in their spare time, the Girlfriends are doing just that. More information at www.girlfriendscancerfoundation.org/home.html
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Getting Schooled with Brookwood High: Ending Hunger with Creativity
Gymnastics skills that improve Gy in independence and coordination. Or as they see it,
By Sarah Schneeberger It’s not often that you find a group of students using their free time and creativity to make a difference. Yet tucked away in the halls of Brookwood High School are students and teachers striving to do just that. For the second year in a row, the high school is taking part in helping end hunger in their March to a Million effort, a goal to raise a million dollars for charity. To help in this endeavor, the school is participating in the Empty Bowls initiative, a grassroots campaign that has raised money to end hunger in the United States for over 25 years. What many people don’t realize is just how prevalent hunger is, not only in the United States but right here in our community. According to dosomething.org, 1 in 6 people face hunger nationwide. That number increases to 1 in 5 in the state of Georgia and to 1 in 4 children, according to the Georgia Food Bank Association. Consequently, hunger is a major issue that will not go away overnight, making the efforts of the Empty Bowls initiative all the more important. The event itself invites people to Brookwood High School to enjoy homemade soups and to buy delightful craft made bowls thrown, formed, and glazed by the students at Brookwood. The teacher leaders of the Brookwood Empty Bowls initiative, Christopher Vigardt, Elizabeth Debban, and Loria Crews, say that they are proud to be a part of something like this. Their students echo this same excitement as they see their creative work serve a greater purpose to help those in need. Students in the Brookwood art classes, art club, and National Art Honor Society, have been working since November to make bowls to sell at the Empty Bowls event. Encompassing a different design from the imaginative to the simplistic, the individual bowls are as unique as the students who made them. Last year the students worked to make 200 bowls, and they have met their goal to surpass that number this past March. The money raised from event donations and the sale of the bowls goes Continued on page 20
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Popadoodle: Where Children’s Imagination Meets Creativity By Dana Harvey
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The birth of Popadoodle, a children’s imagination center, began to take shape when owner Valerie Kartwe was on a path to nurture her own son – affectionately called “Popadoodle” – as he started to express himself through different art forms at an early age. This inspiration led her to develop a place in the Lilburn/Stone Mountain neighborhood where a kid’s wildest imagination and different forms of creative expression could be explored in a fun, safe, kid-friendly, and worry-free parent environment. “My goal was to create a place where kids can be free to express themselves artistically in various ways while having fun doing it,” said Kartwe. Located at 1218 Rockbridge Road, across from Kroger gas station at the corner of Rockbridge Road and Five Forks Trickum Road, Popadoodle offers to girls and boys, infant to 10 years old, an interactive station-driven center that includes painting, arts and crafts, puppetry, science labs, sand and jewelry art, nail art, Lego art, sensory fun, robotics, clay, sand and play dough, S.T.E.M fun, and a fairy garden. “Our center is a child’s dream playroom that offers various activities to spark creativity and artistic expression,” said Kartwe. “Our philosophy is that children use various art forms as a language. Our center is filled with open-ended art and play stations where children can create, explore, and express themselves. We believe that coloring outside the lines is the path to genius. In other words, imagination can lead to innovation.” According to Kartwe, the community of schools and local businesses have been really supportive and critical to the center’s success thus far. Popadoodle has teamed up with several local schools, businesses, parks, and daycare centers within the county to offer field trips, S.T.E.A.M programs, arts and crafts classes, and artistic programs. One of those partners includes Forefront Arts which featured the drama production “Annie” at Popadoodle in May and will also bring a performing arts summer camp at the center, July 17thJuly 21st, that will include a production of “Beauty and the Beast.” “We are really excited about this opportunity to have our first drama performance at Popadoodle,” Kartwe said. Continued on page 20
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ANN-CAROL PENCE (Associate Producer/Co-Founder) arranged the music for Aurora’s first Christmas Canteen in 1996 and was hired full-time in September of Just days before a long-awaited Spring Break, 1998 Resident Director. An education major at James Madison University, the walls as of Trickum MiddleMusical School’s media S E Rshe V I C E & R E P A I R center withbackground the buzz of 100 teen-to develop Learning Library (or L2). As a musician, she reverberated used her agers. But they were not there to chitchat about created Aurora’s Musicals by Moonlight, and Aurora’s New Musical Initiative. She exciting plans to the beach or their next Netflix Taz Butler binge Instead, these eighth graders has session. performed as pianist and/or music director both nationally (Goodspeed Opera were delivering impassioned speeches to an Owner House, Pasadena audience of their peers aboutPlayhouse, serious issues The Cleveland Playhouse, The Kennedy Center) and ranging from(The Islamophobia to the Theatrical homeless locally Alliance, Outfit, Georgia Ensemble Theatre, The Horizon). crisis in Georgia. (Text) As proud offrom Gwinnett, most and ability to applyisresearch andproud writing of Aurora Theatre winWhoasays teenagerscitizen today suffer apa- ativityAnn-Carol skills to the realLarge world. Every year the studentsThis goes ning ever Pinnacle for Non-Profit. well with her 4 thy and athe sensefirst of entitlement? Give them a Award Licensed & Insured No Job Too Small are asked to evaluate the process, and their platform to explore a topic of high interest, Suzi Awards for Outstanding Music Direction for Mary Poppins and Les Misérables, and you’ll be surprised at their maturity and responses are moving. Andrew Marshall from Aurora’s world premiere of Clyde Bonnie: Awrote, Folktale, and A Catered Affair and her Mrs. ’n Shackelford’s class “You cannot passion. track a student’s creativity on a test. You cannot After reading Elie Wiesel’s Holocaust memmultiple nominations for In the Heights, Memphis, A Year with Frog & Toad, Annie oir, Night, eighth grade students in Mrs. Boone test a student’s limits on a single sheet of paper. GetMrs. Your Gun, language Godspell, Singin’ in tothe Rain andtrueApotential, Chorus In order [find] a student’s you Line. She is a participant and Shackelford’s arts classes have to let them find their limits. The Human launched into what they called, the Human in this year’s Atlanta Regional Leadership Institute. By Joanna Shackelford
770-856-1845
Rights Project, where students chose a topic Rights project lets the students reach as far as can. It gives them the chance to show the ofD.H. interest,MALCOLM, conducted careful research on an they III (General Manager) joined Aurora Theatre part-time in 2007 organization or person who advocated for the world what they believe in and who or what as the bookkeeper and business manager to stand by.” for the new facility. Now in charge of cause, and wrote a speech to inspire others to they want In the end, work get involved with the issue. The students also day-to-day operations, D.H. managesstudents the presented AuroratheirTheatre budget, spearheads created a 3-D symbolic structure that related to in a museum-style format, acting as docents development and provides the theatre with sound business advice. His background the message of their speech. The ultimate goal for their “exhibits” to visiting teachers and students from other classes. The culminating was to give a voice to the voiceless. includes graduating from Marist School, obtaining a BS from Duke University and Some students found that they discovered event, Night at the Museum, was an evening later an from Statefor University. has extensive management family and friends D.H. where students something aboutMBA themselves throughGeorgia the expe- reserved attracted an audience of over 500 to deliver rience. Ellen Bignault said, “This project gave experience in both entrepreneurial and large businesses. He serves on the board me a voice, which people my age sometimes their well-rehearsed messages to humanity. oflike the Downtown Development the Lawrenceville. In his other SomeAuthority parents could beof seen withCity tears inof their feel we don’t have.” eyes, clearly touchedclub by these young Overall, an exhausting life, he itis was an avid golferprocess. and a professional fitter forvoices. Callaway Golf. D.H. has two Students toiled away at researching, writing, “This is so inspiring,” one mother admitted. wonderful and“The Cam kids seem to really care about their topics and constructing. children, Teachers gaveKatie individual feedback along the way in class, and the stu- and genuinely want to share them with others.” JUSTIN ANDERSON Artistic Director) has been based in the metroWhat’s most remarkable were the responses dents were expected to make changes to(Associate perfect from the students themselves. Some of theJanuary 2014. Artistic astheir work. area since 2009 and full-time with Aurora since Atlanta But taking constructive criticism was not most timid emerged as polished, confident sociations include Synchronicity Theatre, public speakers by the end. Others have even and Serenbe Playhouse. always so easy. “We’ve had someTheatrical students who Outfit, gone on to donate or volunteer at the organizahave had to redo their entire structures and While studying directing at Rutgers University, Justin had the privilege to work even their speeches after initial in-class presen- tions they chose to research. with Amy Saltz, Pamela Berlin, William Carden, and Deborah Headwall. He holds Student Miles Young articulated the process tations,” said Mrs. Boone. “Sometimes that as a whole. University “The Human Rights isn’t in Theatre Studies from results a lotTheatre of frustration. But itfrom takes guts a BAin in Arts Campbell andProject an MA to be able to go back and rework something really a project,” he said. “It’s an experience and Regent University. His work has been seen at regional theatres in the Southeast you think is finished. Our kids develop some a service to those in need around the world.” During a time in our country where many including Actor's Theatre, Dad's Garage Theatre Company, Florida real grit through this process.”Express, Aurora things seem uncertain and all humanity lost, Former teachers, Cathy Alexander and Repertory Theatre, Horizon Theatre Company, Serenbe Playhouse, Stage Door Debra Moody, developed this tradition nearly one thing is for certain. The future of our com10 years ago as a way to test their students’ cre- munity is in good hands.
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Learning Lessons Continued from page 12 professional tutor you are considering. Request to see the instructional area and observe sessions in progress. Remember, SUMMER is the most ideal time for students to get a JUMP START on the next school year! I hope your children have a great summer sleeping in late, splashing around the pool, eating Popsicles, watching movies, AND participating in SUMMER LEARNING! Carol Wood is Founder & CEO of Total Learning Concepts, Inc. More information at http://www. totallearningconcepts.com/
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Brookwood High: Empty Bowl Continued from page 15
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to local nonprofit food organizations like the Southeast Gwinnett Cooperative and Food Finder GA. By adding the homemade and special touch, Vigardt hopes the bowls will serve as a reminder of the initiative to end hunger every time people see them. There are valid reasons behind the art that these students are making, and it is powerful to see the students catching on to this idea. At Brookwood High School, Principal Bo Ford stresses the idea of being an “upstander.” Vigardt said that the Empty Bowls initiative, “marries well with this idea because the students use their creativity to help those in need.” All of this is embedded in the idea of civic involvement that the students and teachers fully embrace. It’s not difficult to feel inspired by how enthusiastic students like Ian Harmon and Abby Hinkleman are when they see their creativity pay off for a greater cause, and this is what makes Empty Bowls so special. The bowls serve as a lasting reminder that you can help people, no matter what your strengths are. All it takes is a desire to help and a willingness to make a difference. Like Vigardt and Debban said, “You don’t have to look far to find someone in need.” More information about Empty Bowls at emptybowls.net
Popadoodle Continued from page 16 On a weekly basis, the center offers afterschool art classes, open play time on the weekends, and customized, theme-based birthday parties anytime. Art classes are six to eight weeks in length and include an art show at the end of the session to highlight the children’s art work. Children’s birthday party packages begin at $295 and are all-inclusive, with additional add-on options available to create the perfect party. Two other special programs are a monthly parents’ night out and Sensory Saturdays. Parents’ Night Out is held on the second Friday of every month from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m., and the cost is $25, which includes pizza, drink, snacks and a night filled with art and fun. Sensory Saturdays are held on the third Saturday of every month and feature accommodations, activities, and amenities for children with special needs. Membership packages are available, which include free art classes, open play, and admission into the toddler program starting at $39 per month. Beginning June 5th through August 4th, Popadoodle will offer a wide array of creatively designed summer camps including: S.T.E.A.M, Nature Adventurer, Fairies and Princesses, Art, Creative Camper, Fashion Week, Super Heroes Girls and Boys, and Fun in the Sun. More information at www.popadoodle.com .
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Our Town
One on One with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation By Michelle Watson Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation (GCPR) has some of the most beautiful parks in the state of Georgia. They have won numerous awards, including the number one park system in the nation (2008), as well as the number one park system in the state (2016) by the Georgia Recreation and Park Association. Duncan Creek Park is repeatedly voted as having the best playground by readers of Atlanta Parent Magazine. The many aquatic centers are also routinely featured in numerous publications and online polls. Gwinnett County parks are indeed wonderful, and it is easy to understand why. GCPR has acquired and preserved 10,000 acres of green space by building a variety of facilities, including aquatic centers, sports fields/gymnasiums, disc golf courses, and multi-purpose trails. Nazanin Weck has been with GCPR for six years. She currently serves as the Resources and Marketing Coordinator for the county-wide park system. When asked why she chose this position, Weck says she wanted to see the impact her work had on the community. She also wanted to stress the importance of environmental stewardship while continuing to ensure the community is aware of the many affordable recreation opportunities GCPR offers. In the summer, there are five-day camps for children ages 5-13. Campers are split into two age groups so they can participate in age-appropriate activities. Special programs for teens are also offered to prepare them to be future camp counselors or park volunteers. In addition to serving the youth through various activities, the park system offers events specific to seniors age 50 and up. Community partnerships also allow GCPR to make a difference in the community. Partners such as Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and Gwinnett Public Library provide programs aimed at educating and improving the quality of life for the county’s citizens. Partnering with the community has increased the scope of activities/programs for all interests, affordable programming, and rental venues. The programs are great, but so is the scenery. Volunteers from the community as well as from Master Gardeners help tend the GCPR gardens. Master Gardeners can apply for funding for plants and garden vegetation, which they then donate to GCPR. Volunteers put in 779,925 hours in 2016. With all of the activities and renovations, it is easy to see that volunteers are the most important part of making GCPR successful. GCPR is funded through special purpose local option sales tax (SPLOST) dollars. Community residents serve on steering committees to provide input on park sites. The most recent parks in Gwinnett County are J. B. Williams Park and E. E. Robinson Park. Parks undergoing renovations include McDaniel Farm Park, Pinckneyville Park, Tribble Mill Park, and Jones Bridge Park. For more information on park activities, you can obtain a copy of their program guide, Gwinnett L.I.F.E., at any of the park facilities or most other Gwinnett County buildings and elections offices. More information about volunteering at www.volunteergwinnett.net
DeKalb Psychiatric Associates 2711 Irvin Way, Suite 211 v Decatur, GA 30030
Neil A. Kahn MD v Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry Brittany Burchfield PhD v Adult and Child Psychologist
Accepting new patients Medicare and most major insurance plans accepted Call 404.501.0001 for more information and to schedule appointments
Realty Reality: Is My Home In “Selling Condition”? By Kathy Coots, Realtor Preparing your home to go on the market can be a daunting task. Knowing where to spend your time and money is critical. More often than not sellers believe installing granite in the kitchen is the best investment. However, there are occasions when that money would be better spent on other items such as neutralizing paint colors, updating hardware, or even general maintenance and cleaning. The trained eye of a Realtor can point out items in your home that have become so familiar that you aren’t even aware they could be an objection to a potential buyer. Once you have crafted a plan for improvements, it is important to use vendors who provide excellent value and reliable service. Color choices and grade of product are other considerations you should expect help with from your agent. Many even use the help of professional stagers to make suggestions. Seek out an agent who can assist you by recommending preferred vendors with tried and true track records. When sellers have limited funds for improvements, there are still suggestions that can be made regarding staging the home to insure that furniture placement provides a good flow for buyers viewing homes and that lighting is optimal. Plus, tips can be provided for general market preparation. When hiring a real estate agent to help sell your home, be sure he or she is willing and qualified to evaluate your home and provide guidance to get your home in top selling condition for maximum profit without spending money and energy unnecessarily. Kathy Coots is the Owner of Kathy Coots & Company with Keller Williams Realty. More information at www.KathyCoots.com
Our Town
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PAGE 21
Travel Tales: Eating My Way Through Northern Spain
May 23rd @ 6:30pm Snellville City Hall Community Room
By Pam Walker There are certain facts about Spain that are indisputable: It has more Michelin star restaurants than any other country other than France; Spanish wines and cavas (sparkling wines) are some of the best in the world; and Northern Spain has some of the most beautiful scenery on the Iberian Peninsula! With this knowledge in mind, my answer was, “Yes, yes, yes!” when a friend asked me to travel to the land just south of the Pyrenees and to the Costa Brava. First stop, San Sebastián. This city, located on a beautiful bay with green mountains for a backdrop, was once the undiscovered playground of the rich and famous. Now lovely mid-century buildings make the area look for all the world like a little Paris or Cannes. The fresh seafood here is not only copious, but delicious. Everything from sea urchins to lovely grouper and snapper top the tables of several Michelin star restaurants. Bilbao was next with a visit to the Guggenheim Museum, an architectural masterpiece designed by Frank O. Gehry. Dinner at Etxanobe (on the list of the world’s best restaurants) surpassed expectations. Each dish was handcrafted with locally sourced products and presented with artistry. After a two hour drive past castles and green farms, we visited the Rioja region where the grapes of the same name are grown. A special tour through the Marques de Riscal vineyard and wine tasting surpassed expectations. Next stop was the Costa Brava, where Spain connects with France. Spectacular cliffs that cascaded down into the Mediterranean far below offered spectacular vistas. World renowned gastrobotanical consultant Evarist March had much to teach about plants and herbs to pair with wine as we walked next to the sea. Evarist is part of the team at El Celler de Can Roca, which has been named the second best restaurant in the world! Wonderful Northern Spain and the Costa Brava mean lazy days of 3-hour lunches, great wines, and amazing creativity by its famed chefs. Thank you, Spain, for this lovely learning experience! Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel advisor. More information at www.walkeradventures.com
UPCOMING SNELLVILLE TOWNE GREEN EVENTS
Bring the entire family to enjoy Great Food, Actvities and Tons of Fun! SNELLVILLE BEACH BLAST
MEMORIAL CELEBRATION AND CONCERT
May 20 2-7 p.m. •2:30 - Mascot Parade around the Green •2-5 - Fun and Games with DJ Lee •Bungee Jump - Inflatables - Trackless Train The Big Kahuna Water Slide and 9 Hole Mini Golf Course (All Day Pass $10) •5-7 - Gold Standard Band
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FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY
May 27 4-9 p.m. •4-6 - Memorial Program (Tribute to all veterans) •Make corn husk dolls, corn cob pipes and beeswax candles (Be there at 4 if you want to participate in the program (Ages 9 & older) •6-9 - Concert featuring the Ultimate Eagles Tribute ON THE BORDER
June 2 4-8 p.m. •Join us for Food, Fun and Games! •Giant Yard-Sized Checkers, Jenga and Jumbo Connect 4 •9 Hole Mini Golf Course
www.SnellvilleEvents.com
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Our Town
The Village Corner
German Restaurant, Bakery & Tavern We are a full-service bakery, restaurant, and tavern specializing in German cuisine.
Let Us Help You
Celebrate With a cake from our Bakery
6655 James B Rivers Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30083
(770) 498-0329
Hours Of Operation: Tuesday - Friday 9am-10pm Saturday 8am-11pm Sunday 10am-9pm Closed Monday
Mothers’ Day
Don’t let pain keep you from doing what you love! Visit your local BenchMark Physical Therapy. Our licensed physical therapists are musculoskeletal experts who are trained to identify the source of your pain or injury and recommend treatment to get you feeling better and moving better, faster. Let our team focus on your full recovery so you can focus on what matters to you. Call your local BenchMark today to set up an evaluation. BUFORD I-85 • 2815 Buford Dr, Ste 102 • Buford, GA 30519 • (770) 271-4413 GRAYSON • 2065 Grayson Hwy, Ste B • Grayson, GA 30017 • (678) 376-0213 LAWRENCEVILLE • 455 Philip Blvd, Ste 160 • Lawrenceville, GA 30046 • (678) 985-0238 LILBURN • 1227 Rockbridge Rd, Ste 402 • Stone Mountain, GA 30087 • (770) 925-9210 SNELLVILLE • 2050 Scenic Hwy N, Ste A • Snellville, GA 30078 • (678) 344-7197
Our Town
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PAGE 23
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