MAY 2017: Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

MAY 2017 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Loganville Lawrenceville

Meet the Chelsea Gardens Team, see story on page 5.

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Vecoma at the Yellow River: An Amazing Venue for a Special Event Movie Review: Beauty and the Beast is a Home Run Sport Talk: Grayson High Boys Lacrosse Team is Special One on One: Dr. Mehdi & Neuro Behavioral Health Associates

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

PAID

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isJohn honored to beIV, we are committed to providing you with the high AtDr. the Simmons dental office of W. Simmons, comprehensive dentalnine care, focused on improving both the function and beauty of your smile. A one of only dentists in patient care and comfort are our primary concerns. We are proud to run a practice that treats ea Georgia to have passed the kind, gentle, and caring manner, just like family. We offer a full range of the latest cosmetic a rigorous required to long-lasting, earn procedures thattesting concentrate on ensuring brilliant results you will love, and others

Cosmetic Dentistry The cosmetic procedures we offer can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. We offer a wide selection of procedures that can correct almost any dental imperfection.

• Porcelain Veneers • Teeth Whitening • Dental Bonding • Gum Recontouring • Dental Implants • All-Porcelain Crowns

BEFORE

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accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

His state-of-the-art equipment and updated technology allow him to affordably serveDENTAL CARE AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY D.M.D., P.C. • SUPERIOR his patients by providing healthy, beautiful smiles. Our experienced team provides five-star service, personalized care, and an extraordinary commitment to your health and well-being. Please join our Call for an Appointment family by scheduling a new patient exam.

J OHN W. S IMMONS,

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John W. Simmons, IV, DMD, PC

2381-B Main Street East www.smilesbysimmons.co Snellville, Georgia 30078 Hours: Monday 9:00am - 7:00pm Tuesday 7:00am 770-985-2437Office • smilesbysimmons.com Wednesday 7:00am - 6:00pm Thursday 7:00am - 2:

Dr. John W. Simmons, IV

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Our Town

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inspired by family After 12 years of providing superior healthcare to Members of our residential community, Park Springs Health Services opens to the general public this Summer. We’ve created a state-of-the-art health center that features the HOUSEHOLD MODEL, a new familyinspired approach to senior health. ™ Assisted Living

Intimate households include 18 deluxe private suites, an inviting

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™ Skilled Nursing ™ Rehabilitation and Recovery ™ Home Care Services ™ Adult Day and Respite Program

Each household is supported by a Care Partner, Nurse, Homemaker and Dietician under the direction of an onsite geriatrician.

The Household Model looks like home and feels like family.

Trust-built relationships with the Household Team enrich Members’ lives and contribute to their wellbeing.

You won’t find long, institutional hallways or set schedules. Our Member-driven environment puts their interests and preferences first, fostering engagement and independence. Members enjoy all appropriate activities and amenities of our 61-acre campus surrounded by Stone Mountain Park.

The New Health Center Opens Summer 2017

Call to schedule your tour today.

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678-684-3800 | ParkSprings.com/HealthServices 600 Springhouse Circle | Stone Mountain, GA

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

On the Cover: Making a Difference: Catching Up with the Team at Chelsea Gardens

By Daidra Annis April showers bring May flowers, so chances are you’re seeing a lot of the Chelsea Gardens crews these days. If you’ve ever admired the landscape features and manicured look throughout the City of Grayson, you can thank the folks at Chelsea Gardens Landscape Management, Inc. They have provided the City of Grayson’s landscape maintenance for the past two years and counting, but it’s just one of many locations where you can see their handiwork throughout Gwinnett and surrounding counties.

Since 2000, Chelsea Gardens has maintained and beautified their community. Then, and now, the company’s goal is to “Wow” its customers. They found a niche with service to residential, commercial, and all-inclusive communities that desire only the best full-spectrum landscape management service. Chelsea Gardens prides themselves on staying actively involved with their clients through consistent and clear communication to understand each of their individual needs. Their professional staff offers consultations to ensure they are “creating environments that fit [both] your vision and budget.” While landscape maintenance is their “bread & butter,” enhancements large and small fall within their wide range of expertise. After all, landscaping is an investment that time and time again has been proven to significantly increase your property value.

Jamey Whitaker took over sole ownership of the company back in 2008, but has been part of the Chelsea Gardens team since it was founded in 2000. Even after all these years, the team has remained small and intimate – keeping the mindset of “quality over quantity and service over expansion.” With the ideology of working as a team and interacting as a family, Chelsea Gardens has been able to retain 75% of the same staff for over twelve years, ensuring that their customers see the same friendly faces each service visit.

The entire team at Chelsea Gardens is proud of their community, and love to support the community that supports them. Not only does the Whitaker family live in Grayson, most of their employees do, too! Chelsea Gardens is proud to be the Primary Sponsor for the upcoming Gimme Shelter concert on June 10th. All proceeds from this annual concert go

to the Partnership Against Domestic Violence (PADV) and the Grayson Children’s Fund.

Participation in the annual Grayson Day Parade has become somewhat of a tradition that the entire staff gets behind. Partnerships with the various sports teams within the Grayson Schools Cluster are another way that Chelsea Gardens is involved in the community. This is one of their favorite ways to give back, as it not only provides the opportunity for the Chelsea Gardens team to pour back into the youth that is the future of the community, it is also an indirect way to support their own client’s families.

The Chelsea Gardens mission is to add value to the lives of their employees and customers, produce a service that is respected by their peers and competitors, and create an environment in which people can grow and thrive, where all who participate have a reason to be proud, happy, and satisfied. Mr. Whitaker acknowledges that the company would not be where they are today if it were not for all the people involved – employee, customer, and vendor alike – and he appreciates the service and support of every single one.

With a new growing season and new ways to serve, the Chelsea Gardens crew is looking forward to spending more time with their clients, one property at a time.

For more information, contact Jessica at chelseagardens@bellsouth.net or visit: http://www.chelsea9482_Dr. Chris's Natural Remedies January Ad 2017.final.pdf 1 12/14/2016 3:32:53 PM gardenslandscape.com/

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This office complies with applicable Federal Civil Rights Laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability or sex.

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 5

Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm EndResultZ.com

Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@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.

Editor Catherine L. Osornio

Entire contents copyright 2017 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Cover Photographer Amadorphoto

Our Town Gwinnett

1227 Rockbridge Road Suite 208-171 Stone Mountain, GA 30087 678-825-2049 Info@OurTownGwinnett.com

Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Daidra Annis Heidi Campbell Dana Harvey Kim Hill Karla Socci Somers Michelle Watson

Contributing Writers Dr. Rodrigo Cruz Terie Hansen Kelly Webb

Stay Connected!

OurTownGwinnett.com Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com OurTownGwinnett OurTownGwinnett OurTownGwinnett

IN THIS ISSUE 5 7 7 8 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 19 20 21 PAGE 6

On the Cover: Catching Up with the Team at Chelsea Gardens From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion The American Heritage Animal Hospital is Small in Size But Big in Heart Fitness Fundamentals: Responsibility AC Spine & Wellness Center Celebrates 25 Years in Gwinnett Vecoma at the Yellow River is an Amazing Venue for a Special Event The Village Corner German Restaurant & Bakery Gears Up for Events Beauty and the Beast (2017) Has it All: Music, Action, and a Worthy Heroine Photo Fun: Working, Playing, and Learning Hard - Archer Cluster Schools Photo Fun: Working, Playing, and Learning Hard - Archer Cluster Schools Photo Fun: Working, Playing, and Learning Hard - Grayson Cluster Schools Sports Talk: Grayson Boys Lacrosse Team is Special in More Ways than One Try a New Genre: Top 6 Memoirs Provide Excellent Summer Reading Dr. Mehdi of NBHA: Lends a Compassionate Ear to Patients Pet Perch: Top 5 Reasons Your Cat Does Not “Go” in the Litter Box Chaplain’s Corner: Live Into Your Vision!

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

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.

The American Heritage Animal Hospital is Small in Size But Big in Heart

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Grand Opening

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By Heidi Campbell

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Dr. Cat McGinnis, known to her veterinary submit this card u yo if n g! io in n at tr pe O is customers as “Dr. Cat,” is the owner of American Grand Free reg Heritage Animal Hospital in Snellville. She recognized her passion for working with animals at a young age, and worked in veterinary hospitals ever since she was fifteen. When she was ten, Year-Round Curricu she got her first dog. The deal she made with her parents was that if she got a dog, she had to Sibling Discounts promise to take care of it. She promised over and over. On the way home, the new puppy became carsick and started to wretch. “In my great attempt to prove to my dad that I would take care of Summer Camps bmit this card! the dog,” recalls Dr. Cat with a grin, “I put my hands under the dog’s mouth to catch the vomit!” su u yo ! if rd n ca io is at th and more! reyoguissutrbmit ENGLISH CAMPS Free n ifMATH Born and raised in Decatur, Dr. Cat graduated from the University of Georgia’s College of Free registratio Hours: Tues-Thus 3:30-7:30 and Sat 9-12 Veterinary Medicine in 2008, gained experience doctoring small animals and horses in South Carolina, and moved back to the Atlanta area to open her veterinary hospital in 2013. She has four dogs of her own – a Great Dane, a spunky mixed breed, and two Chihuahuas – and enjoys Year-Round Curriculum her regular boarding guests and rescue dogs. “I have customers who tell me all the time,” Dr. Cat Year-Round Curriculum admits, “that they think I love their pets as much or more than they do. And I do!”

Sibling Discounts ENRICHMENT CLASSES Summer Camps Sibling Discounts American Heritage Animal Hospital, which currently offers half price exams for new clients,you subm ! it this card! tion if submit this card straprevenu yo if is a small practice with a full range of services for dogs and cats. The practice provides Free regiall n io at tr is reg and more!

Summer Camps MATH ENGLISHFree CAMPS tative care and surgeries, and Dr. Cat works to stay within a family budget, which she believes is a major advantage to a smaller practice. “I’m not a veterinary conglomerate,” she explains, “so and more!

MATH ENGLISH CAMPS I can really tailor the care here to meet the individual needs of my customers.”

Year-Round Curriculum Many clients board their cats and dogs at the hospital where they are treated like family Sibling Discounts Year-Round Curriculum members. They are kept in runs where they interact with the peopleENRICHMENT working in the kennel, and CLASSES Summer Camps they get to go out for three walks a day in their fenced back yard. Frequently, boarding guests Sibling Discounts who prove they get along with other animals will get time to hang around front as well. CAMPS The and more!

MATH up ENGLISH (Grayson Loganville area) Continued on page 22 Summer Camps

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Excuses. We all have them, we all use them, and we all rationalize them at some time or another. Some excuses are legitimate; but many are used as justification when we cannot get something done we know we should be doing. The number one reason people give for canceling their gym membership is lack of time. The same answer goes for healthy eating habits – there is no time to cook, food prep, grocery shop, etc. I’m concerned that this excuse is so widely accepted, yet so rarely challenged.

The truth is you make time for what is important to you. Saying you don’t have time for healthy habits does not automatically make it true. It may just mean you aren’t willing to move things around to make something else a priority. We all have 24 hours in a day, 7 days in a week. Adding 30 minutes of physical activity, 5 times a week, will change your body in many positive ways! A FEW benefits of exercise include boosting mental wellness, improving physical wellness, prolonging optimal health, preventing bone loss, boosting energy level, improving self-image, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke, keeping weight under control, helping to manage stress, combating anxiety and depression, increasing muscle strength, and the list goes on! There is nothing more important than your health, and it is a responsibility you must take seriously.

Maybe it’s time to sit down and reprioritize the things you have time for and the things you don’t. Making time for exercise (and all other healthy habits that contribute to your health) is easier than risking your wellbeing and quality of life, and the anxiety you feel knowing you should be proactive when you aren’t.

You don’t have to spend hours in the gym to make a massive impact on your health. Basic education along with a realistic, established routine will change your life for the better. The best part? The benefits don’t stop with you, and THAT’S what makes all the difference!

Kelly Webb is owner Ladies Workout Snellville & co-owner of KF Fitness. More information at www.ladiesworkoutexpresssnellville.com.

AC Spine & Wellness Center Celebrates 25 Years in Gwinnett AC Spine & Wellness Center is celebrating twenty-five years of creating a healthier community in Gwinnett. What began in 1992 as a chiropractic care facility has evolved into today’s integrated wellness center where Dr. Louis Cavallo and Dr. Jeanette Altieri treat people of all ages for back pain, joint pain, headaches, allergies, nutrition, and all other spine-related conditions.

Dr. C and Dr. A, as they are known by their patients, are passionate about helping people get relief from symptoms and health conditions as naturally as possible, without dependence upon prescription medication or painful surgeries. They take the time to get to know each patient, often taking care of entire families. “We love helping people feel better,” Dr. C says. “It’s our true calling, and we love educating our community about living a better quality life.”

Over the last twenty-five years, the practice has expanded their team and services to include in-house lab testing and comprehensive bloodwork. Additionally, AC Spine & Wellness Center added a medical division to offer complete treatment of thyroid and adrenal disorders, stress, depression, fibromyalgia, and weight loss. They also offer massage therapy with two on-staff licensed massage therapists – the perfect complement to chiropractic adjustments and stress relief.

The month-long anniversary celebration began with a kick-off week on April 24th. Patients enjoyed all natural, organic cupcakes, smoothies, and farm-to-table luncheon fare from Chef Jeff Hill of Bistro Off Broad in Winder. Existing patients received appreciation gifts, along with chances to win gift cards to area restaurants, discounts on supplements, and free one-hour massage therapy sessions.

AC Spine & Wellness Center is dedicated to creating a healthier world…naturally. Join them for new patient specials and free consultations all month.

More information at www.acspineandwellness.com.

For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

J.M. Tull-Gwinnett Family YMCA

(770) 963-1313

Vecoma at the Yellow River is an Amazing Venue for a Special Event

By Heidi Campbell As visitors drive up to the Snellville property surrounding Vecoma at the Yellow River, they completely forget that they are mere moments from the hustle and bustle of a metropolis.

Nestled quietly amidst the trees, this property is an ideal blend of eloquence, intimacy, and beauty. The grounds are pristine, and the reception hall is tastefully decorated with the elegance of light streaming through the exposed rafters and the charm of flowing table décor and unique antiques that add to the appeal.

The owners, Caroline Tucker and Judith Warren, a mother-daughter team, have worked together for twenty years – even during football season when they cheer for opposing teams.

Judith is a die-hard Georgia Bulldog fan, and Caroline cheers for her alma mater, Georgia Tech.

They put the school rivalries aside, however, and enjoy working together to create the perfect venue for weddings, retreats, anniversaries, company parties, and birthday celebrations. “This is a family business. My sons are fifth generation Atlantans,” Caroline explains, “and my two sons enjoy helping out with the business. Now they are dishwashers, but they are looking forward to running the business someday. My husband is licensed to be a wedding officiant. The whole family is involved.”

The deck of the main building overlooks the stunning grounds that border the Yellow River.

Wedding couples walk toward the water along a stone path between rows of seated guests where they say “I do” under a beautiful awning. “The best part of this property is that it is so secluded on the river, and there are seventy acres of forest around us,” Caroline points out. “There are places like this in Dahlonega, but with Vecoma you don’t have to drive all those hours to have a destination wedding!”

The property has been in the family since the 1920s. Caroline’s great-great grandfather, Harry “Cotton” Mather, was a successful business owner. As his furniture business grew throughout Georgia and Florida, Cotton and his wife, Venie, were able to see their dreams to fruition. They purchased the land along both sides of the Yellow River, and, by 1927, built a six-sided get-away in the forest. They named their retreat Vecoma, with the first four letters representing the first two letters of each of their names. Visitors can still see the original foundation and chimney when they visit the new reception hall, which was built in 1996. “Cotton passed the land on to his daughter, and then it was left to my mother,” explains Caroline. “We knew we didn’t want to sell the land. We’re conservationists, plus it was sentimental! We wanted to keep it in the family.”

Judith spent time on the property as a kid, and, in 1996, had the idea to build the venue.

Vecoma at the Yellow River is a full service venue for special occasions, employing close to twenty dedicated part time employees who work to make the events the best that they can be.

Vecoma provides the food and bar for all events. They have numerous bar options, from open bar to cash bar, and all options include a professional bartender for the event. The food is prepared by Vecoma’s executive chefs, Walter Reed and A.B. Bailey, who have been with Vecoma the entire twenty years. They use all fresh ingredients. The menu can be suited to satisfy nearly any palate. They offer brunch choices, traditional Bfare, Italian or Mexican selections, and their specialty, Southern cuisine. They can do sit down, plated meals for up to 150 guests with all indoor seating, or 250 if they add additional seating on the beautiful covered deck overlooking the river. They can serve up to 320 guests for those looking for a reception-style buffet.

Customers have the option to bring their own cakes, photographers, ministers, flowers, and music. “We have great recommendations for bakeries, and our in-house DJ Kirk Moten does a great job at a great price,” explains Caroline. “I’m the in-house photographer. I started doing the photos because I know exactly where all the picture-perfect spots are. There is no obligation to use me, but I offer great quality at a great price!”

Indeed the sample wedding albums and photos that are on display showcase the absolute magic of a Vecoma event: beautiful surroundings, complete joy, and vibrant colors. Caroline truly loves the work that she does. She says, “Every weekend is a heartwarming experience! After planning these events for months, I get to see these brides in their wedding gowns and take the Continued on page 22

Our Town

YMCA Summer Day Camps for ages 5-17

ymcadaycamping.com NBHA offers treatment for various mental health issues, including: • Attention Deficit Disorder • Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder • Adjustment Disorders • Anger Issues • Anxiety Disorders 4 Generalized Anxiety Disorder 4 Obsessive Compulsive Disorder 4 Post-Traumatic Stress disorder

4 Panic Disorder 4 Separation Anxiety Disorder 4 Social Anxiety Disorder • Bipolar/Mood Disorders • Depressive Disorders 4 Major Depressive Disorder 4 Post-Partum Depression 4 Seasonal Affective Disorder 4 Situational Depression • Disruptive Disorders 4 Conduct Disorder 4 Oppositional Defiant Disorder • Grief Counseling • Personality Disorders • Phobias • Schizophrenia & other Psychotic Disorders • Self-Esteem • Stress Management • Mood Disorder

TYPES OF SERVICES OFFERED

1. Outpatient services for children, adolescents and adults include: • Comprehensive Psychiatric Diagnostic Assessments • Follow-Up Psychiatric Assessments • Medication Education and Management Services • Individual/Family/Group Psychotherapy • Referrals to other health care professionals • Bariatric Surgery Assessments 2. Inpatient/Hospital Services 3. Consultation Services • Behavioral Health Consultations to Employers • Employee Assistance Program Services • Tele-Psychiatry Services to the State of Georgia various Behavioral Health Agencies.

Mehmood Mehd

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Mehmood Mehdi, M.D. Board Certified Psychiatrist www.neurobehavior.net

367 Athens Hwy Ste Loganville, GA 3005 New Main Location Opening Soon 770-554-2999 Office

367 Athens Hwy Ste 1050, Loganville, GA678-353-6979 30052 Fax www.neurobehavior.net 770-554-2999 Office • 678-353-6979 Fax 1026 Twelve Oaks Drive Ste A, Watkinsville, GA 30677 706-521-0999 Office • 770-675-6390 Fax

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For information on becoming an advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 9

New Year • New Ladies workout • New You!

The Village Corner German Restaurant & Bakery Gears Up for Events

By Heidi Campbell

770-985-6070

ladiesworkoutsnellville.com FB: Ladies Workout Snellville 2135 E Main Street • Suite 150 • Snellville, GA 30078 Ladies only • Les Mills Group Fitness classes • Athletic Training Package • Personal Training • Strength/Cardio Equipment • Child care

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Apple strudel, Black Forest cake, in-house brewed beers, freshly baked bread, schnitzel, giant pretzels, and delicious weekly specials are just a few of the popular menu items that keep patrons coming back to Stone Mountain’s Village Corner German Restaurant and Bakery.

The restaurant, serving all three meals every Tuesday through Sunday (with a special brunch on Sundays), is truly a family-run business. Hilde and Claus Friese have passed the torch to their son, Carl Friese, who is a graduate of Johnson & Wales Culinary school. “My mom still comes in and does the finishing on the wedding cakes,” says Carl, “but she and my dad are enjoying their retirement.”

The Village Corner’s dinner menu offers a host of traditional German fare, priced from $10.00- $21.00, including bratwursts and other sausages, quiches, roulade, and several seafood and vegetarian options. Their breakfast menu offers everything from German pancakes to omelets, while their lunch menu includes soups, Reubens, hamburgers, sandwiches, and salads.

“We always have weekly specials,” says Friese. “We listen to our regulars when we plan those specials. We always include new appetizers and entrees. These specials are great because it gives me the chance to get creative!”

The restaurant also boasts a brewery, consisting of four brewing tanks located behind the bar in the tavern. Friese brews six beers, including a pilsner, a Doppelbock, and a Hefeweizen, and a cider. “We are designated a brew pub, which means we can serve in-house. I’m still working on growlers, and hope to know something in the next few months since the laws have recently changed; but for now, we offer steins and flights,” explains Friese. “I’m looking forward to some new flavors for the summer, including a peach cider and a new IPA. People really like our seasonal selections and pilsners.”

The restaurant, voted “Best of Atlanta” numerous times over the years, is committed to the local community. Along with participation in the “Taste of Stone Mountain” each March, they also work to support the Friends of Disabled Adults and Children (FODAC). At Christmas, they donated some of the proceeds from the sale of their popular gingerbread men to FODAC. On top of that, they did a raffle for a giant gingerbread house, and donated all proceeds from the raffle to this worthy cause.

The restaurant has an event space for parties and other celebrations, and they have several special events coming up in the spring, including brunch for Mother’s Day. The Mother’s Day brunch will include bottomless mimosas and a live violinist and cellist. They also look forward to their yearly June event, usually around Father’s Day, which is an evening of Jazz Under the Stars. Friese says that they set up an outside stage to welcome Andrew Fazakerly – the pianist at the Fox and lead pianist at Corpus Christi Catholic Church – and his ensemble. “It is a great night,” says Friese. “We have tables set up outside, and we string lights. It is a night of wonderful live jazz. I look forward to it every year!”

More information at www.germanrestaurant.com.

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Movie Review: Beauty and the Beast (2017) Has it All: Music, Action, and a Worthy Heroine

By Heidi Campbell Once in a while a film comes along that crushes the barriers of critical reasoning and astounds audiences with heartwarming characters, hair-raising action, beautiful music, magical sets, and epic romance. Beauty and The Beast, released in March of 2017, was produced by Walt Disney Pictures and Mandeville Films. The film, which breathes new life into a timeworn fairy tale, raked in nearly half a billion dollars at the box office in its first month. The story incorporates all the elements that make fairy tales so engaging: a heedless royal in need of a moral overhaul, an enchantress who casts a spell, a virtuous hero, a host of personified inanimate objects, an evil villain, and a kind, single father who raises his daughter with unyielding love. Transformations weave their way into nearly every ounce of the film, and beautiful music scores transition, adding magic and meaning to the scenes.

The film wastes no time in transforming a French Prince, played by Dan Stevens, into the Beast – a just dessert for a man who cruelly casts away an old woman seeking shelter. The Beast, who struggles to adjust to his cursed, isolated castle life, becomes angry and withdrawn. His previous subjects, who have all been transformed into household objects, are his only company: a talking candelabra named Lumiere, played by Ewan McGregor; Cogsworth the mantle clock, played by Ian McKellen; a motherly teapot, Mrs. Potts, played by Emma Thompson; and Mrs. Pott’s son Chip the teacup, played by Nathan Mack.

Like all good fairy tale curses, this one teaches a lesson, but thankfully the curse doesn’t last forever.

The music in the film is at once beautiful, challenging, moving, and plot driven. In a tiny French village, a girl named Belle, played by Emma Watson, lives with her father Maurice, played by Kevin Kline. The audience quickly learns of her reputation through the townspeople as they sing “Belle,” which highlights the fact that she’s a little different from the rest: “But behind that fair façade/I’m afraid she’s rather odd/Very different from the rest of us/ She’s nothing like the rest of us/ Yes, different from the rest of us is Belle!”

Kudos to the producers of the film for creating a heroine in Belle. She is a self-proclaimed bibliophile and a fantastic role model for modern youth! She is a young woman who stands up for herself, loves her family, appreciates that beauty comes from within, and is proud of her intellect.

She is a strong-willed woman. When the evil Gaston, played by Luke Evans, tries to demand her hand in marriage, she’ll have none of it! “When we return to the village, you’ll marry me,” says Gaston. “Never!” she tells him boldly.

When Maurice returns from a delivery, he takes a wrong turn and ends up imprisoned by the Beast. Belle acts quickly to come to his aid, which is precisely how she finds herself in the castle of the Beast. The objects of the house quickly welcome her with excitement and humor.

“Cogsworth, look! A beautiful girl!” says Lumiere. “Yes, I can see it’s a beautiful girl you fool!

I’ve lost my hands, not my eyes!” responds Cogsworth. These two characters play off each other throughout the film with memorable wit.

Beauty befriends the castle’s characters and eventually the Beast as well. Belle begins to see a softer side of the Beast, and is overwhelmed by his enormous library and appreciation of Shakespeare. In her song “Something There,” Belle explores her emerging feelings singing, “There’s something sweet and almost kind/But he was mean and he was coarse and unrefined/ And now he’s dear and so I’m sure/ I wonder why I didn’t see it there before?” She has the endearing ability to look beyond the physical monstrosity of the Beast.

Belle seems to naturally transition into the role of a princess, even before Madame Garderobe, played by Audra McDonald, whips up a gown for her. The Beast, who up to her arrival was harsh and angry, completely transitions into a softer character. Belle has the power to soften his entire demeanor, and he shares his feelings in “Evermore” singing, “Now I know she’ll never leave me/ Even as she runs away/ she will still torment me/ calm me, hurt me/ move me, come what may/ wasting in my lonely tower/ waiting by an open door/ I’ll fool myself, she’ll walk right in/ and be with me for evermore.”

The audience is completely enamored with the couple as their relationship develops. While the world knows how the age-old story ends, there are several surprises to this rendition that bring the action to a wild climax that will shock and excite even the most prepared viewer. Good battles evil, and lessons are learned. Even the anticipated happy ending is happier than one expects. Love wins. The Beast transitions back into the handsome Prince, the staff is reunited in human form, and Beauty is rewarded for her moral virtue with a life beyond her dreams.

Belle, earlier in the film, asked “How Does a Moment Last Forever?” In the end, the reprise of that song answers that question: “Sometimes our happiness is captured/ Somehow, our time and place stand still/Love lives on inside our hearts and always will/ Minutes turn to hours,/ days to years and gone/ But when all else has been forgotten/ Still our song lives on.”

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This year Grayson’s varsity boys lacrosse team is like no other in the program’s seven year history. When asked what makes this team special, one of Head Coach Jake Schwab’s responses was because the “… majority of our players have been playing together since Grayson’s youth program.

They have come to know each other’s tendencies and play styles, which makes all of them play together better than those of past years.”

The familiarity with one another on the field has paid off greatly for the Rams, who finished with 10 wins (through April 21st) and topped their regular season performance with the school’s first lacrosse region championship in school history, which is also another reason why they are special. As a result, Grayson will host its first HOME playoff game against Northview in the first round of the lacrosse state playoffs.

“We are excited for our players who have accomplished this goal for the team,” said Schwab, who has been at the helm of the program for three and a half years.

The new region realignment this year landed Evans, Lakeside, Archer, and Greenbrier in the same class 6A-7A region 8 as Grayson. The Rams finished undefeated in region play with a goal differential of 50 points, while tallying 63 points and allowing only 13 goals.

Coach Schwab credits its defense as the team’s strength because “we have played pretty solid defense all year. However, each game our players showed us the potential they have going forward on both sides of the field, and it’s pretty exciting to see.”

With a tougher non-region schedule and 15 returners from the previous year, Coach Schwab challenged his players, which included only two seniors, to elevate their game. The young Rams responded behind the offensive play of junior attack Nick Losurdo. Named a Gwinnett County Super Six player, Losurdo has scored more than 70 goals this season and holds the school record for goals, assists, and points.

“He is an all-around phenomenal lacrosse player, and a tremendous athlete and student of the game,” said Schwab.

Junior defenseman Dylan Witt knows where to be on the field, according to his coach, and leads the team in forced turnovers, while sophomore goalie Nolan Hayes, who has started for the Rams two consecutive years, is averaging 13 saves per game and has kept them in a lot of games this year.

Other players who have had an impact on the team’s success are sophomore attack Michael Anderson, juniors Reece Morrow, the team’s top midfielder, Micah Maxie (defense), Sam Eck (attack), Ryan Brown (defense) and Luke Hagan (Faceoff), senior Trevor Fowler (LSM), and senior Jakob Braun, who will be playing at Shorter University next season.

“We push our players to treat each other like family, to learn from their mistakes, and to become students of the game,” said Schwab. “As a result, they are reaping some rewards for their individual and collective efforts.”

As with any good structure, a team needs a solid foundation to build on, and that support starts with Grayson’s administrative team.

“Our principal (Dana Pugh) and our athletic director (Brian DeBerry) have provided tremendous support and recognition to our team. They are advocates for our student-athletes and the game of lacrosse,” Schwab added.

Coach Schwab credits his assistant coaches for doing a remarkable job of improving the program every year, while bringing it to the next level and developing lacrosse players. A combination of coaching and player development have been the cornerstone for the Rams.

“I like seeing our guys grow, and I enjoy them being successful; but the true measure of this team comes from our assistant coaches,” said Schwab.

Assistant Coach Bobby Losurdo, a pioneer in helping to start Grayson High School’s lacrosse varsity program, makes everything happen offensively for the Rams by constructing the team’s offensive designs and plays. First year assistant coach Kris Frier, a very knowledgeable and skilled defensive player, leads the team defensively against the attack.

There is still some unfinished business left this season for the Rams as they will try to win their first playoff game in five previous attempts and to stay alive in the state tournament, which will be held in May. More information at www.graysonlacrosse.com.

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Try a New Genre: Top 6 Memoirs Provide Excellent Summer Reading

By Heidi Campbell Autobiographies are now passé. The telling of one’s story is now done in a relatively new genre – the memoir. Over the last decade, there have been some truly amazing memoirs published, many which have the power to completely change the reader. As an English teacher of nearly twenty-three years, I am always seeking high interest literature for my social-media crazed students. Here is a list of what I consider to be the top six, high-interest memoirs on the market.

My Lobotomy (Howard Dully) As humans, we have a natural morbid curiosity that compels us to read stories involving traumatic content. This memoir is the heartbreaking story of Howard Dully, who was the youngest victim of Dr. Walter Freeman – a doctor who performed ice pick lobotomies out of the back of his “medical” van. The proverbial evil stepmother comes to life in this tale of dysfunction, disappointment, and abandonment. This is a story that will enrage every reader, and one that is absolutely unforgettable.

Look Me In the Eye (John Elder Robinson) This New York Times Bestseller is told by a man who grew up with Asperger’s Syndrome, but didn’t know it until he was an adult. He is at once socially awkward and gifted, but wholly misunderstood.

He was seen as a social deviant – a kid with major behavioral problems. His story, which includes a dysfunctional family life, is one that truly helps the reader better understand the mind of a person with Asperger’s. He was, for instance, always expected to “look people in the eye,” but this is not something that came to him naturally. These are the kind of normalcies that he had to learn throughout his life, often times learning them too late. His life and talents eventually led him into business with the rock band Kiss, where he worked to create their legendary exploding guitars. This is an endearing, eye-opening memoir, which, as a teacher, truly helped me to better understand this syndrome.

Proof of Heaven (Eben Alexander) This New York Times #1 Bestseller is a fascinating read for anyone who has ever pondered what happens to us after we die. Dr. Eben Alexander is a neurosurgeon who sees life slip away on a regular basis. In his scientific mind, he has always believed that life simply ends – there is no afterlife. This belief, however, changed when he had a near death experience. He describes what he recalls from this event in vivid detail. His descriptions of his tour of another universe are thought-provoking, and certainly solidifies the beliefs of those who believe in an afterlife.

Same Kind of Different As Me (Ron Hall & Denver Moore) This memoir, also a New York Times Bestseller, is actually written by two men, offering their perspectives on a unique and unlikely friendship. Deborah Hall, the wife of Ron Hall, a wealthy Texas art dealer, runs a ministry for the homeless in Dallas, TX. She meets Denver Moore, a homeless man with a tormented past, and finds a way to bridge a lifelong relationship between this man and her family in a story that is poignant and uplifting. This is powerful, spiritual, and uplifting.

Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust (Immaculee Ilibagiza) This is a memoir of one woman’s struggle to stay alive after her entire family was massacred. When I say massacred, I do not mince words. The mass murderers in Rwanda used machetes to kill close to one million Rwandans. As I read this story about this modern day genocide occurring on our planet in 1994, I was embarrassed by the lack of media coverage this devastation received here in America. Ilibagiza’s bravery, as she hides in a tiny bathroom for over three months, will be a story I will never forget, particularly the tenacity of her human spirit. Parts of this story are very difficult to read, but it is a worthy, important read.

Brain on Fire: My Month of Madness (Susannah Cahalan) This harrowing New York Times Bestseller is a memoir about a journalist in her mid-20s, who wakes up strapped to a hospital bed and labeled violent and psychotic.

Cahalan recreates her story in journalistic fashion, relying almost solely on the medical staff and family members who witnessed her spiral into madness. She has no recollection of parts of the experience. She moves us through her horrifying tale with a perfect balance of science and compassion, and reminds all readers that we should never be satisfied with the opinion of one doctor. This is a frightening and triumphant story.

Look for additional Top Book Recommendations in future issues of Our Town, including “Top Authors,” “Top Beach Reads,” “Top Humor,” and more.

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2017 GIMMESHELTER BENEFIT CONCERT

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Dr. Mehdi of NBHA: Lends a Compassionate Ear to Patients

By Kim Hill When Dr. Mehmood Mehdi opened Neuro Behavioral Health Associates in 2009, it was the culmination of many years of preparation. Asked by his sixth grade teacher what he would like to do when he grew up, he replied that he wanted to be a medical doctor. As a child, he had witnessed his father suffer with medical issues and had seen how his doctor would take care of him and relieve his pain. He remembers visiting his dad in the hospital and hearing his father speak highly of his doctor and praising his care. This was very inspirational for the young boy, and he grew to think of the doctor as someone of great ability and power, respected not only by his father, but by all of his patients. “I got into medicine,” he says. “I think that was something in me.”

Regarding his choice of psychiatry, Dr. Mehdi explains, “I’ve always been a person who would be interested in other folks’ stories, and being there for them if they needed anything.” He had a big circle of friends and family who would reach out to him due to his “internal inclination” to be a good listener. “I really believe in the old phrase that ‘listening is an act of love,’” he says.

By allowing people to talk, and by listening emphatically and with patience, the healing process begins.

Dr. Mehdi attended the Dow Medical College in his hometown of Karachi in southern Pakistan, graduating in 1992, and completed an internship the following year. He became interested in research taking place in the United States, and moved to New York in 1994 where he did a year of training in internal medicine and learned about the American health system.

He then spent four years completing his psychiatry residency training at the state hospital in Washington, DC, providing care to a young patient population, and returned to New York to do a child psychiatry commission at Mt. Sinai. When he completed his training, he started practicing south of Memphis. He says his five years there was a very good experience as he was seeing patients from different social and mental health settings. He has been practicing psychiatry in the Atlanta area since 2006, and established Neuro Behavioral Health Associates (NBHA) in 2009, opening the Loganville office in 2014. He explains that neurology (how the brain works) and psychiatry go hand in hand. “In psychiatry we have a vast knowledge, and have to be able to understand the neurology component of human behavior.” When dealing with neurological diseases, Dr. Mehdi often collaborates with a neurologist to treat the patient.

An example would be a patient who suffers from hallucinations due to chemical imbalances in the brain from Parkinson Disease.

Dr. Mehdi works in different capacities to assist and to keep current on medical trends. He provides supervision and teaching to students of the Medical College of Georgia and to residents at Gwinnett Medical Center, works with the mental health center in Athens, and is medical director at Summit Medical Hospital.

NBHA offers many services to clients diagnosed with attention deficit disorders, anxiety disorders, bipolar/mood disorders, and depressive disorders. Dr. Muntzra Qadri joined the practice in 2016 to provide psychiatric services in the Watkinsville office. NBHA is moving to a larger facility within the same office complex to accommodate a growing practice. More providers will mean less waiting time and additional services, such as group counseling for teenagers and education for the families of the patients. Dr. Mehdi has an interest in bringing a treatment called TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation of the brain), a non-invasive procedure for patients who have chronic depression and who may have side effects from medication, or who just do not want to take medication.

Dr. Mehdi and the staff at NBHA want people to know this is a facility where they can be seen to become healthy and successful in their lives. Patients range in age from 5 years all the way to 70. Dr. Mehdi reiterates that compassionate hearing of a patient’s problem is the heart of his work. “First and foremost, listening is important,” he says. “Once we are able to listen to their problem with interest and attention, then half the problem is solved.”

More information at www.neurobehavior.net.

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Pet Perch: Top 5 Reasons Your Cat Does Not “Go” in the Litter Box

By Terie Hansen If you’ve owned a cat, you may have experienced a time when your cat eliminated outside of its box. This can be a sign that a problem exists. It’s best to get to the bottom of things quickly before your cat develops a preference for eliminating elsewhere. Here are the top 5 reasons your cat may be peeing outside of its box.

Urinary tract infection (UTI) – Feline UTI can have your cat feeling an urgency to urinate, causing your cat to associate the discomfort with using the litter box.

Not enough boxes – A good rule of thumb is to have one litter box per cat, plus one extra. So, one cat equals two boxes, two cats equal three boxes, etc. You get the idea. Cats can be territorial, so they don’t always like to share.

Dirty litter box – If the litter box is not cleaned regularly, then your cat may be choosing to eliminate elsewhere. Would you want to go in a dirty toilet? I didn’t think so! Scoop the box daily. Empty the litter box and thoroughly clean it weekly.

Change in environment – If you’ve had a major change lately, such as moving to a new home, the arrival of a new pet or new baby, or if there has been a change in your routine (new job, illness, etc.), then that change is probably causing your cat to be stressed.

Multi cat conflict – Cat fights or conflicts can also cause stress, therefore causing your cats to change their toileting habits for the worse.

The best approach is to prevent these problems before they happen by making your cat’s toileting experience as cat-friendly as possible.

Make sure your cat has multiple shallow litter boxes, and keep them clean. If you see your cat straining to urinate or excessively licking, then consult your vet as a UTI may be present. Keep your cat’s routine as predictable as possible to minimize stress. If you are experiencing conflicts between your cats, seek advice from your vet or a cat behavioral specialist. For more information, visit www.aspca.org and search “common cat behavior issues.”

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

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By Dr. Rodrigo Cruz I have been happily married for over twelve years. My wife Kelly knows that going shopping is not one of my favorite things to do. But I like to spend time with her, and sometimes shopping is the way to do it.

Every time I’m going shopping with her, I say to myself, “Okay, Rodrigo, this is going to be a good experience. You are going to spend quality time with your wife. Just have a positive attitude…” But just five minutes in the store, and it feels that the life is sucking out of me. Not sure why, but it happens every time.

A couple of months ago I told Kelly that we were going to spend the whole day together, regardless of what she needed to do. Well, she needed to go to a place called “Target.”

We got there, I parked the car, and we started unloading the kids. We had a back pack, snacks for the kids, and coloring books. It felt like a trip to Disney World. And as soon as we got out of the car, the kids started complaining: “I’m hungry; I’m tired; I don’t want to be here;” etc. So, I told the kids, “Guys, this is going to be a quick trip. Five minutes max. Just hang in there.” I looked at Kelly, very proud of my controlling the situation, and she gave me that look of “Are you kidding me?

Five minutes?”

Once we were inside the store, Kelly found a dress and asked me a very simple but loaded question: “Do you like it?” I’m not sure what I was thinking, but I answered, “I guess; it’s okay.”

(Guys, if your wife has something in the shopping cart and she asks “Do you like it?” the answer is always yes). But I have to be honest, right? She puts the dress down and just says, “Okay, we are leaving,” and walks out of the store.

My first reaction was to look at my watch and think, “Five minutes. Yes!” But then, I had to think what in the world just happened? What went wrong? What did I miss?

After some serious thinking, it came to me: the problem was in the vision. And not just in the simple concept of vision – which for me was to spend time with Kelly that day – but in the implementation of that vision. How can I live that vision out effectively and benefit my whole family? And that is precisely what I want to share with you today: how you can get a vision for 2017 and live into it.

We all have heard about the importance of vision. We need vision for our lives. The Bible says that without vision, people perish. And if we believe God created us to be people of purpose, vision is then God’s tool to help us reach that purpose. For me the vision is a picture of the future that produces passion.

God chooses to reveal his vision for our lives in so many different ways. In Scripture, there are plenty of examples of how God does that: a burning bush to Moses, a dream to Joseph, an angel to Mary, etc. But for the majority of people, God chooses less dramatic ways, often coming in the midst of our days.

I want to encourage you to not let your days go by like my day at Target. Seek God’s vision for your life and find the way to implement it effectively. You never know when God’s vision for you can impact the lives of others.

Rodrigo Cruz is the Lead Pastor of The Nett Church.

More information at www.thenettchurch.com.

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PAGE 21

Vecoma at Yellow River Continued from page 9

American Heritage Animal Hospital Continued from page 7

photos of a lifetime! I get to watch families reuniting for exciting events. I get to hear the toasts to the bride and groom. Weddings bring people together, and I love being a part of that!”

Although weddings are the most popular events held at Vecoma, they have numerous other events throughout the year. They host company Christmas parties, corporate summer picnics, rehearsal dinners, and wedding anniversaries. They can use their space and property for any occasion. “This past year, we had a one-year-old birthday party,” shares Caroline. “It was a wonderful event! We had lots of guests, balloons, face painters, and a DJ. We even had a petting zoo!”

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office is one that truly loves animals and treats them like their own, which makes it hard when they have to put an animal down. “I’ve had quite a few people come to me when they need to put their pet down because they have heard that I’m caring and compassionate about it,” says Dr. Cat about one of the most difficult parts of her job. “It is heartbreaking for all of us when the life of a pet is at its end.”

While there are sad days in her field, Dr. Cat has countless inspiring days as well. She recently had a man bring in his Pomeranian. The dog was completely weak and barely moving. When she looked closely at the dog’s skin, she realized that it was covered with fleas, which were making the dog anemic. She did not need to run any additional expensive tests; she simply administered a Capstar to kill the fleas. She kept the dog overnight, and the next day he was up eating and livelier. “I love being able to diagnose and treat these animals,” Dr. Cat says. “People come in thinking that they are going to have to put their animal to sleep, and I’m elated when a pet gets better.”

Dr. Cat enjoys helping the community, and donates her time, talent, and resources to three different Great Dane rescue organizations. She works with the fostered animals to provide medical care and to find loving homes, is a member of the Chamber of Commerce, and takes part in numerous local festivals. “Whenever I can, I like to teach people how to be better pet owners,” says Dr. Cat. Students benefit from the guidance of Dr. Cat as she works with three different student programs. She has an active Explorer program where high school kids come and shadow her work.

This opportunity, developed by the Boy Scouts of America, enables kids to really see if they want a career in veterinary science. She also has a Veterinarian Assistant program that helps students at the Animal Behavioral College get their clinic hours for certification. Finally, she provides clinic hours for Grayson Tech’s Veterinarian Tech students. Dr. Cat says, “I like to teach the students about animal care and what they should be doing. Students learn to draw blood and run heartworm and fecal tests.”

American Heritage Animal Hospital is a small practice with a big heart. Dr. Cat isn’t afraid to educate her clients along with her students. She encourages pet dietary health, and doesn’t shy from suggesting alternative treats such as baby carrots and green beans to help control a pet’s weight. “I believe in being completely straightforward with people,” Dr. Cat shares. “I will never run unnecessary tests, and I will always be truthful with what a pet needs.”

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