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On the Cover: Getting to Know Arthur Ratliff Photography
By Kristen Eleveld
Who doesn’t dream of traveling around the world? Most of us have hopes of seeing what’s out there –and one local couple is not only living this dream, but also making their living at it.
Since Arthur Ratliff was a kid, he loved taking photos. As the first one in his family and one of few in his community with a nice camera, he became popular with his friends and neighbors as he showed just how talented of a photographer he was. And since so few people had photos of themselves, they flocked to Arthur to get their picture taken by the expert.
It makes sense that Arthur would one day wind up with his wife, Denise Gunter, who he married in 2021. Denise also spent years honing her photography expertise as she made a name for herself with her artistry of choice: mixed media collages.
Both master gardeners, Arthur and Denise can be found at a local art exhibit – like the one in Tucker where Denise is currently showing some photos – or you might run into them in Spain, which is where one of their most recent adventures took them.
Though their final products are unique to each of these talented artists, their love for learning about places around the world sees them through many exciting journeys.
“We want to learn from other cultures and then share what we have learned from them with people here,” said Denise of what motivates them to keep seeking new places and events.
Of course, while you can view many of their amazing photographs and collages online, you will
also recognize some events and people from the greater Atlanta area. For instance, Arthur loved working on a project at the Mountain Park Library, where Congresswoman Lucy McBeth had donated several books. Arthur and Denise have become so well-known in the Tucker and Dekalb area that they often have business lined up for months at a time.
You will also see Arthur photographing some more traditional events, like weddings and baby showers. This works well, because he is looking to do more of those events in the coming months.
“I think my pictures are a lot different than the groups that come in with a large crew and looks like everyone else’s wedding,” said Arthur. “I get to know the people, connect with them, and be there for the whole process.”
For Denise, her photography and mixed media collages represent the opportunity to put a picture to the words she has read to describe some of her favorite places. For instance, as an art education major in college, she learned a lot about the Notre Dame Cathedral. But turning the corner in Paris and seeing the building itself was an entirely different experience. This experience also lends itself to the creativity that Denise brings to her collages.
“People like my unique perspective,” said Denise. “I love how collages let you meld two different ideas.”
And their love for their art does not end with the work they do. They have set a mission for themselves to help other budding photographers who show promise and just need some guidance – guidance that Arthur and Denise will gladly provide.
They don’t even charge for their expertise, because they consider it a service to the community to encourage new photographers to develop their skills. If you’re wondering how this dynamic duo can be part of your next event, just head to their website and fill out the contact form! Your memories will be captured in a way that lasts forever.
More information at https://www.arthurratliffphotography.com/
Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine — An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com
Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/NE DeKalb area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.
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IN THIS ISSUE
5 On the Cover: Getting to Know Arthur Ratliff Photography
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
Holiday Matters: Make Your Holidays Stress-Free
Thanksgiving Tips: How to Practice Gratitude 8 Health Matters: Older Adults Should Protect Their Health This Fall 9 One Man’s Opinion: We’re From Georgia AIM – We’re Here to Help
Gwinnett Tech Students Earn Seventeen Medals at National SkillsUSA
From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks
By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers @RyanTSauers
Hello, Our Town Community. Can you believe we are in November? Wow, it seems not long ago that I was writing about the beginning of a new year in 2024. Time flies, and we must be grateful for each moment. November is a great time to reflect upon our journey, express gratitude for the blessings surrounding us, and draw inspiration from the unwavering spirit of our community.
In this season of change, I encourage us to take a moment to count our blessings, no matter how small they may seem. Gratitude is a powerful force that can transform our lives. When we focus on the positive aspects of our existence, we build resilience and find strength in the face of challenges.
Our community has shown remarkable resilience over the past few years, which we should all be proud of. We have faced unprecedented times with courage and determination, supporting one another through thick and thin. Let us carry this spirit forward into the coming months, standing together, shoulder to shoulder, as we continue to grow and thrive.
As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop lower, remember that each day is an opportunity for growth and positive change. This is the time of year to set new goals and aspirations, whether big or small. It’s the perfect moment to take that step you’ve been putting off, to start that project you’ve been dreaming about, or to strengthen the bonds with your neighbors and friends.
As we learned during the pandemic, we can adapt, innovate, and support one another in times of need. The Our Town community exemplifies the strength and determination that lies within each of us. Let’s carry this energy into the months ahead, embracing challenges with open hearts and minds.
Continued on page 15
Holiday Matters: Make Your Holidays Stress-Free
By Tana Poncsak
As soon as the kids roam the neighborhood for candy on Halloween, many of us start thinking (and maybe obsessing) about the upcoming holidays. After all, there’s cooking to be done, presents to buy, and plans to be made all while still working and going about our daily lives. And while the holidays are supposed to be meaningful and fun, often they turn out to be tiring, disappointing, and stressful.
According to a December 2017 article in Medical News Today, some people can feel overwhelmed by the excess, expectations, and exchange and can become depressed during the holidays. The article goes on to say that a lack of time and money, credit card debt, and the pressure of gift giving can often contribute to stress during the holiday season.
As mentioned in this article and cited by many others as well, one of the main causes for holiday stress can be linked to our expectations. We watch the holiday movies and see images of the picture-perfect holidays, and that becomes what we strive for. Anything less misses the mark.
The answer can be as easy as keeping things simple and don’t over plan. But we all know that’s easier said than done. Here are a few things you can do to lower your expectations and keep things simple.
• Make a realistic list of the things you need to accomplish to make your holiday special and meaningful. This shouldn’t be a long list. Try to keep this list at three to six things. Then make a second list of the things you would like to accomplish but aren’t necessary to make your holiday complete.
• Try to simplify or delegate the things that need to be done to make the best use of your time. For example, you want to read the latest holiday novel, but you have no time. Try listening to the audio version while commuting to and from work. You may even be able to borrow it from the library for free using an app like Libby.
• Don’t like outdoor decorating? Delegate it to the professionals. Some local landscaping companies may offer outdoor decorating during the holidays.
• Don’t like to bake but need festive cookies? Leave the baking to your local bakery.
• Have company coming into town for the holidays, but no time to clean? There are a number of cleaning services in the area you can call.
• Need help wrapping? Hire a neighborhood teen to wrap your packages one afternoon.
• Short on time for cooking the holiday meal? Have it catered by a local restaurant. Or if that’s totally out of the question, try cooking some dishes using a pressure cooker or an air fryer and save the stove and the oven for dishes that need your extra attention.
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Health Matters: Older Adults Should Protect Their Health This Fall
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
With cold and flu season upon us, it’s time to protect yourself from those seasonal threats and other health risks. “During the holidays, our lives get very busy with family and friends,” said Dr. J.B. Sobel, chief medical officer for Cigna Healthcare’s Medicare business. “Before then, please take time to ensure you get the preventive care you need to stay healthy.”
Preventive care is critical for everybody, but particularly for older adults, and especially in fall when risks can increase. Recommendations vary based on age, gender, and health status, but the following are some Sobel says are the most common for seniors.
Thanksgiving Tips: How to Practice Gratitude
By Tana Poncsak
There’s a lot of chatter about how being thankful and practicing gratitude can help one live a healthier and a happier life. We hear about it in inspirational quotes on social media, discussed on podcasts, and we even read about it in various articles in magazines and on the web.
It’s November and the month of Thanksgiving, and while many will be reminded to give thanks as a result of the holiday, let’s look at some ways we can practice gratitude all year.
• Take a look at your values and how you spend your time. Perhaps those values have shifted along the way. Think about the things you value most and why you value them. Are you missing some special people in your life? Perhaps you need more time to yourself. Whatever it may be, time to yourself or more time for the special people in your life, think about ways to spend more time on the things you value in your life.
• We’ve all heard it before, but it bears repeating. Stop comparing yourself to others. It’s easy to do, especially with social media 24 hours a day, but it’s counterproductive. You’re unique, so be thankful for your uniqueness and learn to lean into it.
• Keep a gratitude journal. You don’t have to write a page every day. A few lines will do because being consistent is important. Just the act of writing something down can have a positive impact.
• Be generous about saying “thank you” when you’re out and about in the community. In a world filled with road rage and other bouts of anger, it’s refreshing to encounter someone with a gracious spirit.
• Make it a goal to send at least one thank you note or thank you email a week. Perhaps a coworker helped you with a big project or there’s a family member you haven’t spoken to in a while. Not only will they feel good about receiving the note, but you will feel good about making someone else’s day a bit brighter.
• Volunteer and help others any way you can. As people, we have a tendency to feel better about ourselves and other things when we’re helping others. And perhaps during the holidays is a great time to start. Volunteer in your church or your community. Help out a friend in need. Any small act could make a big impact.
• Spend some time reflecting, praying, or meditating on and for an attitude of gratitude. It takes time and focus to develop a habit, even good ones. We often have to constantly remind ourselves as we pursue new endeavors and being thankful is no different. Keep it up.
Hopefully, as you see and feel the positive power of gratitude, you’ll be motivated to keep practicing, even if it’s just for one more day.
care provider which vaccines are appropriate for you.
• Flu. This vaccine is administered annually, generally before the end of October, and is designed to match the latest circulating flu strains.
Vaccinations: There are several vaccines older adults need to consider to protect themselves. For example, flu and pneumonia are among the most common causes of senior deaths. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to vaccination. Timing and frequency vary, depending on your health history. Ask your health-
• Pneumonia. Administration varies based on health history. If you’re 65 or older and you’ve never had the vaccine before, you’ll likely need two shots administered a year apart.
• Shingles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends two doses of the shingles vaccine for healthy adults aged 50 and older, spaced two to six months apart, to prevent shingles and related complications.
• COVID-19. Ask your doctors about current recommendations for the prevention of COVID-19 infections.
• RSV. Earlier this year, the Federal Drug Administration approved two separate vaccines to address respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in older adults. RSV, a common respiratory infection, usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms but can be more severe in older adults and children. Talk to your doctor about whether you should get an RSV vaccine.
Continued on page 13
One Man’s Opinion: We’re From Georgia AIM –We’re Here to Help
By Bill Crane
While looking forward and embracing our future yet to come, I often find benefit in looking back. One of my favorite quotes by author/humorist Mark Twain speaks to, with more than a bit of tongue in cheek, the American fear of innovation and “things new.”
He said, “I am all for progress. It’s the damn change that I am against.”
In my lifetime and career, I began with news operations, shooting film with equipment weighing hundreds of pounds, and working with dot matrix printers, MS-Dos-based computers, preinternet, email, and texting. The early adopters had pagers and mobile phones that looked like monstrous walkietalkies, and began discussing sharing files and protocols on the internet, designed and intended primarily for academic research and advancing science.
The US Industrial Revolution and factories moved a predominantly male workforce away from farms, mines, foundries, forges, and repair shops and onto the assembly lines. Fear of business and job losses led to the creation of labor unions, various workplace benefits, and the many positive aspects of modern big business. Automation and robotics later came on the scene, which again brought the fear of the loss of jobs. But we instead saw the most robust period of economic growth in modern American history, including a handful of BALANCED federal budgets coming from Congress and the White House, despite a divided government in the mid-1990s.
Now, we smile and in some cases tremble a bit as the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sentience is becoming a reality for computers and much of the world around us, including the workplace. As someone who still says Please and Thank You to Alexa in my kitchen and at the office, I am admittedly NOT a technology pioneer. I was self-taught on MS-Dos and later the various iterations of Microsoft Windows. Still missing my beloved Blackberry, I have finally become reasonably adept at the multiple functions on my Android Smartphone.
But also, as a fan of the Terminator film series, there is a corner of my brain awaiting the word that Skynet has gone live and the age of man is about to be replaced by the age of computers. Thankfully, there are engineers, academics, and others leading the way here to ensure that not only does this not happen, but that Artificial Intelligence, like texting, email, the internet, Wi-Fi, and so many now-expected amenities of modern living, continue to free up and serve humanity, and not serve up humans
The Georgia Institute of Technology received a $65 million federal grant in late 2022 to develop teaching partnerships and models across Georgia, exposing middle and high school students to both the benefits (smart robots, drones,
and AR gaming) and the hard work involved (coding, system design, system security) of making AI and a wide variety of applications into reality. The federal Economic Development Administration grant connects and funds sixteen projects across Georgia, each working to develop a future workforce skilled in the smart technologies needed to deploy AI innovation within the manufacturing sector.
During the first week of October, and including National Manufacturing Day, Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (Georgia AIM) Week touched thousands of students, manufacturers, and educators as a Georgia AIM Mobile Studio rolled across Georgia, only days after the devastation brought by Hurricane Helene. In an environment where a dose of hope helped lift many spirits, the Georgia AIM Mobile Studio brought smiles, inspiration, and bright aspirations into classrooms and educators from Moultrie to Atlanta and Fort Valley to Athens.
“Georgia AIM Week allowed us to showcase the incredible partnerships with a range of organizations over the last two years,” said Donna Ennis, Co-Director, Georgia AIM, based within the Enterprise Innovation Institute at Georgia Tech.
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Gwinnett Tech Students Earn Seventeen Medals at National SkillsUSA Competition
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
At the National SkillsUSA Post-Secondary State Leadership and Skills Conference, hosted in Atlanta, Georgia from June 24 to 29, 2024, Gwinnett Tech students made an impressive showing. Out of the twenty-five Gwinnett Tech students who competed across fourteen contests accompanied by fourteen advisors, eighteen placed and thirteen earned gold medals.
Additionally, Gwinnett Tech had ten students named Skill Point Honorees. SkillsUSA recognizes competitors who achieve a benchmark score – typically 80% or higher – set by business and industry partners.
Dr. D. Glen Cannon, the president of Gwinnett Tech, emphasized that these competition results demonstrate the exceptional educational foundation of Gwinnett Tech students and their ability to apply their learning in real-world situations.
“The winners at both the national and state competitions,” Dr. Cannon said, “affirm that our students are well-prepared for the job market.”
The Gwinnett Tech 2024 national award recipients include: Gold Medalists:
• Harveen Banga, Meagan Cash, Sebastian Hoyas, and Keturah Polius Hazell (Health Knowledge Bowl)
• Anh Do (Technical Computer Applications, Skill Point Award)
• Duy Do (Related Technical Math, Skill Point Award)
• Iris Kim (Medical Math, Skill Point Award) Silver Medalists:
• Sharon Broady, Raquel Kangalee, and Shagufta Khan (Outstanding Chapter, Skill Point Award)
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Pet Perch: Exercise? Or Over Excitement?
By Terie Hansen
While there is no doubt that dogs need exercise, many dog owners turn to running and racing around in a yard or a park as the only form of exercise their dog gets. The problem is that if the only interactions you have with your dog are of high excitement, that is what you are patterning – a dog whose mind doesn’t know how to settle down; a dog that is always looking for the next high-energy engagement activity; a dog that typically demands attention from you on a pretty consistent basis. On the other hand, training burns a ton of energy, both physical and mental, and has many positive side effects such as creating a calm, relaxed state of mind. Your dog learns to focus. Your dog is learning valuable commands. Your dog has your undivided attention, so it is less likely to demand your attention at other times during the day. Your dog views you as the leader, which can significantly reduce and/or eliminate anxiety, stress, fear, and other negative states of mind and behaviors. All of which, in the long run, equal a well-trained dog! Moreover, if you’re going to spend time with your dog, what is the difference
Travel Tales: Travel News for 2025
By Pam Walker
I have written before about the ETIAS visa for European countries. But now there is another new visa you will need to travel to the UK starting in January.
On January 8, 2025, the UK will initiate a requirement for entry called the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). It must be completed for all inbound travelers to the UK from the US and elsewhere. Originated in 2023 for visitors from Middle Eastern countries, now US visitors must have one by January 2025, and Europeans in April 2025!
You can begin to process your ETA by November 27, 2024. It will be required for anyone planning to visit the UK, will have to be approved by the British Government before your trip, and will be linked to your passport “to ensure more robust security checks,” ETAs will also cost ten British Pounds or about $13.00 USD for stays up to six months. Multiple entries will be permitted on one ETA and expire when the passport expires. It will have a maximum of two years validity from the time of issue. So if you are planning on a visit to the UK in 2025, please access the following link to get your ETA! https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta
Starting in May of 2025, you will need the ETIAS VISA for thirty European countries. This visa will be valid for three years. The cost of the ETIAS is now 7 euros or approximately USD $8.00. The application website is: https://etias.com/ etias-application
Because of the world’s unrest and the large number of immigrants arriving without these permissions, governments worldwide are putting more restraints on the valid traveling public. Almost a million individuals enter the US daily through legal channels. We, too, have a visa program for visitors called ESTA. ESTA is an automated system that determines visitors’ eligibility to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). That said, only US Customs and Border Protection officers determine admissibility upon travelers’ arrival. The ESTA application collects biographic information and answers to
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if you spend fifteen to twenty minutes throwing a ball versus fifteen to twenty minutes training? Time is time, right? Simply doing sit drills burns both mental energy (because your dog needs to focus) and physical energy (because your dog is doing squats) and will tire your dog out. Down drills are push-ups for your dog. Recalls (coming when called) has your dog running back and forth, but in a controlled manner. Kennel drills also include push-ups because you will teach your dog to enter their kennel and lie down. Even duration commands such as Down and Place burn a tremendous amount of mental energy as your dog practices impulse control while holding those commands.
All drills are done with a leash until your dog consistently follow commands without engaging the leash. You can even use their food (not treats) as a reward. Doing these simple drills will burn tons of energy and sharpen your dog’s obedience skills. In a couple of weeks, you will be rewarded with a much calmer, better behaved dog.
I am not saying don’t play with your dog. I am saying, even if you did 50-50, or better yet, one out of every four interactions with your dog, you played and the other three you trained. The outcome would be a tremendous difference in
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Dose…A Word for Your Day
By Jane Bishop
When I was interviewed on a radio show, I enjoyed a fun and energetic conversation with the co-hosts. Near the end of the interview, one of the co-hosts remarked, “You have such an infectious energy. If we need a dose of Jane, how do we find you?”
“A dose of Jane” resonated with me as it describes my approach with life. If there is a skill, tool, lesson, or resource in my portfolio of life experiences that can help someone achieve their objective, I want to share it. I strive to listen, learn, and connect with others, so if a “dose of Jane” would be helpful, I offer to connect. However, I hesitate to initiate use of this phrase as I connect with others.
My friend Kim helped put this in perspective on one of our catch-up calls. She would text periodically with “I need to hear a little of Jane.” Our conversations are encouraging and energizing, and I have more in my “tank” after our phone visit. I shared the radio show comment with her, and she jumped on it immediately by describing how our conversations are meaningful to her. She thought that was a great description. And I quickly said to her, “And it’s always good to get a dose of Kim!”
Ponder this: our approach and attitude to life determines what “doses” we give others. In the book How Full is Your Bucket?, the authors, Tom Rath and Donald O. Clifton, Ph.D., use the metaphor of a bucket and dipper to describe how “even the briefest interactions affect relationships, productivity, health and longevity. Interactions with others either fill our bucket or drain our bucket. Whenever we choose to fill others’ buckets, we in turn fill our own.” I want to be a bucket filler more than a bucket drainer. And if a “dose of Jane” can do that, I’m all in with the phrase!
You have your own doses to share! Each person is uniquely created and gifted. Consider your characteristics, gifts, skills, and core values. Who would benefit from a dose of you? Consider who is in your life that you go to for a “dose of encouragement, support, etc.”? Only YOU can give out a dose of YOU! What are others missing by not getting a dose of you? “You were born an original. Don’t die a copy.” (John Mason)
So, stand on your story, embrace your gifts and skills, and offer a positive dose of “you” as you influence those around you.
More information at www.janebishoplive.com.
National SkillsUSA Competition
Continued from page 10
Bronze Medalists:
• Joshua McGee (Extemporaneous Speech, Skill Point Award)
• Mikayla Schorr (Baking and Pastry Arts)
Skill Point Awards:
• Rayyan Surani (Computer Programming)
• Drake Hamilton (Culinary Arts)
• Byron Jones (Pin Design)
The Gwinnett Tech SkillsUSA chapter received recognition for its contributions to students and the community. The chapter earned two awards: Level 1 Chapter of Distinction (Chapter of Excellence Program Quality Chapter) and Level 2 Chapter of Distinction (Gold Level-Winning Chapter). These titles are bestowed upon chapters that organize high-quality professional development, focusing on students’ personal, workplace, and technical skills. Additionally, our chapter participated in the President’s Volunteer Service Award, securing three Gold-level chapter awards. Notably, student Kayden Cash received the silver-level individual award. Individuals and teams must accumulate 500+ hours of volunteer work within twelve months to attain a gold-level award. For the silver-level award, the requirement is 250+ hours of volunteer work.
SkillsUSA’s mission centers on empowering its members to become worldclass workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. The organization contributes to enhancing America’s skilled workforce through structured programs in citizenship, leadership, employability, and technical and professional skills training. Furthermore, SkillsUSA plays a crucial role in establishing industry standards for job skill training in lab and classroom settings while promoting community service.
Gwinnett Tech offers over 140 degree, diploma, and certificate options that can be completed in two years or less.
More information at GwinnettTech.edu or 770-962-7580.
Hats and Heels Tea Party
By Victoria R. Crosby
I attended a fun event recently at the Norcross Cultural Arts Ballroom, the third annual Hats and Heels Tea Party organized by Lena Speights. Lena has a mission to help women business owners, especially women of color, to succeed, which is why she devotes so much time and energy into this event. The Hats and Heels Tea Party is open to everyone and is supported by a diverse population. It’s promoted as the “Girliest Fling of the Spring. A Sip and Shop experience with artisan vendors and handcrafted refreshments.”
Lena, a retired veteran, has her own business, What’s Poppin USA, a small business support network with a Do-It-Yourself approach. Her Facebook page states, “We give you the resources to help yourself, and when you can’t figure it out, we’re here to assist. We’ve got small business in the bag.”
What’s Poppin USA assists in most facets of business development, startup, identifying target market, brand development, social media navigation assistance, and much more
In addition to the Hats and Heels, Lena also offers Bossy Meet Ups for females, and those who identify as female, for business bonding and socializing with likeminded ladies in the community, to share ideas, complaints, and laughter, with light refreshments served during the ninety-minute meetings held in Lawrenceville. There is a small fee for registration. Lena also hosts Mommy and Me SERENTIPITEA events for mothers and daughters.
As my friend and I walked into the tea party event, we were greeted by Lena and a great big teddy bear dressed in pink seated on a couch. The seven foot bear was named Lady Ura of Bearimore, a name chosen by votes from the public.
There was a big mirror for trying on fascinators, and huge teacups, perfect props for photo ops. We had fun taking photos of each other in the teacups or next to the big bear.
There were raffle baskets and vendors selling amazing artworks, handbags, jewelry, clothing, fascinators, and much more, plus everything was very reasonable priced. The vendors put on a fashion show later in the afternoon modeling items from their booths.
A traditional British afternoon tea was served with delicious blueberry scones,
Continued on page 15
Health Matters
Continued from page 8
Health Screenings: The following health screenings are commonly recommended for older adults.
• Mammogram. According to the CDC, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women in the United States. Every woman is at risk, and risk increases with age. Fortunately, breast cancer can often be treated successfully when found early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends women 50 to 74 years old at average risk get a mammogram every two years.
• Colorectal screening. Colorectal cancer risk increases with age. Screenings can find precancerous polyps early, so they can be removed before they turn into cancer. The USPSTF recommends colorectal cancer screening for adults age 45 to 75. Though colonoscopy is the most comprehensive test, there are other options you may consider with the help of your provider.
• Bone density scan. USPSTF recommends women aged 65 and older and women 60 and older at increased risk be routinely screened for osteoporosis, a disease in which bones become weak and brittle. Screening may facilitate treatment that helps prevent fractures.
Continued on page 15
Holiday Matters
Continued from page 8
• You get the idea. Be creative and ask for help!
• Don’t overwhelm yourself and your family with holiday activities. Pick a few that are manageable and let the others go. And even with the hustle and bustle of the season, remember to make self-care a priority.
• With gift giving, it’s the thought that counts. Don’t feel like you have to spend a small fortune. A small thoughtful gift or handmade gift can be just as personal and meaningful than an expensive one.
• Don’t compare your holiday to the holiday of others. The season is not meant to be a competition.
• Be more thankful for the things you accomplish instead of sad about the things that you don’t get to on your list. You can look forward to the ones you didn’t get to for next year.
• Always keep in mind the perfect holiday doesn’t exist. There are always things that are out of our control.
• If loved ones can’t make it to your holiday celebration, keep in mind the hol-
INSPECTIONS ARE ALWAYS FREE
PREVENT EXPENSIVE REPAIRS
Early detection of roof damage can save you from expensive repairs or full roof replacements.
Addressing issues early helps extend the life of your roof.
idays are a relatively short period of time within a year, and there are another 300+ days in the year giving us plenty of other opportunities to spend time with loved ones. Plan something for later when the timing is better and everyone can be more relaxed.
At the end of the holiday, take some time to reflect. What went well? What didn’t go as well? Were there any surprises? And make notes for a head start on next year.
Have a safe and happy holiday season!
Pet Perch
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your dog’s overall behavior, equaling an amazing difference in your relationship with your dog.
Terie Hansen is the Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care. More information at www.gooddogcoaching.com
MAXIMIZE INSURANCE COVERAGE
A thorough inspection ensures all damage is documented, making it easier to file successful insurance claims.
Proper documentation increases the likelihood of getting full coverage for repairs.
One Man’s Opinion:
“Artificial Intelligence and smart technologies will be game changes for small to medium-size manufacturers, and learning these technologies now opens doors for our workforce.”
In Athens at the University of Georgia, on a sunny Homecoming weekend Friday, Ms. Ennis and others beamed on the STEM program lawn on UGA’s East Campus, demonstrating their wares. At the same time, students interacted with the AI technologies available in the mobile studio. I will have to put my favored Twain quote aside for the moment. I witnessed my favorite North Atlanta Trade School, located near the world famous Varsity, and my alma mater, UGA, and its much more nascent Engineering School, working collaboratively and voluntarily together on a successful project. In that world...anything is possible.
Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
Health Matters
Continued from page 13
• Eye exam. Routine eye exams can identify early signs of eye disease that are more likely as people age. People with diabetes, in particular, are prone to retinopathy, which leads to vision loss. It’s recommended that people with diabetes have annual retinal screenings.
• Mental health checkup. Many people experience seasonal depression during the fall. Mental health is strongly linked to physical health. Talk to your healthcare provider about your personal and family history. They can connect you with additional mental health resources.
To prevent unpleasant surprises, Sobel suggests talking with your healthcare provider, pharmacist, or insurer about preventive care costs. Fortunately, costs are often covered entirely by Medicare or Medicare Advantage.
Note: The information contained in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. (StatePoint)
Travel Tales
Continued from page 11
VWP eligibility questions, but our US Border Patrol makes the final decision regarding entry into our country.
Both the new ETA and ETIAS visas are quick and easy to obtain, so if you are traveling next year, please remember to do so, or you will be refused entry. Be prepared when you travel and ask your travel professional or airline what the requirements are before you travel. Good luck and happy travel in 2025 and beyond!
Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@walkeradventures.com
Remarks
The holiday season is just around the corner, and it’s a time when we can come together to spread love and joy throughout our community. Whether through small acts of kindness or larger charitable endeavors, let us remember the importance of giving and sharing. As we enjoy the warmth of our homes and the love of our families, we should also consider those who may be less fortunate and find ways to extend a helping hand.
In the spirit of giving, let’s also appreciate and support the local businesses that contribute to our community’s uniqueness. They have faced their share of hardships, and your continued support means more to them than you can imagine. This November, make an extra effort to shop locally, dine at our community’s restaurants, and celebrate the incredible small businesses around us.
As we embrace November, remember that we are an unstoppable force when working together. We must UNITE (come together), not UNTIE (drift apart). The letters of each word are the same, but by making one change in their order, they mean entirely different things.
I hope you have a blessed and wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. One that is filled with some downtime and enjoyment of all we have to be thankful for. Finally, and as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!
Hats and Heels Tea Party Continued
from page 13
chocolate covered strawberries, lemon squares, and many other tasty nibbles. There was a choice of a variety of hot teas, including Earl Gray and English Breakfast, with milk or lemon for the hot tea. For those who preferred a cold drink there was iced tea or lemonade. Tables and chairs were set up around the room so that guests could relax and enjoy themselves. Almost every lady attendee wore a hat or fascinator, some wore high heels, others were more comfortable in flat shoes. Sponsors included A Taste of Britain, Designs in Flowers, NX Vinyl, Brickhouse DesiyNYEs, and Savvy Empire Consulting.
The 2025 Hats and Heels event will take place on Sunday, May 11th from noon until 3 p.m. at the Aurora Theater in Lawrenceville.
More information at www.whatspoppinusa.com
Homework Help dedicates time each day to completing homework assignments, encouraging good study habits and freeing up more time at home to spend as a family.
Soccer SideKicks is 100% FUN and 100% skill based. Our Explorer program will include weekly soccer instruction for all Explorers. New to our Explorers program!
Karate teaches self-defensive, discipline and improves self-esteem. Karate is offered weekly at an affordable price.
