NOVEMBER 2021: (BLUE) Our Town Gwinnett Monthly Magazine for Gwinnett/NE Dekalb

NOVEMBER 2021 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

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

9 17 18 19

Thanksgiving Tips: How to Practice Gratitude Lilburn Co-op: Serving the Community One Family at a Time Hometown Brag: Dr. Meg Rithmire, BHS Class of 2000 Making a Difference: Meet the P4 Foundation

Scan to Read Digital Edition6

The Village Corner

German Restaurant, Bakery & Tavern We are a full-service bakery, restaurant, and tavern specializing in German cuisine.

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Before

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H e a lt H y • B e a u t i f u l • i n s p i r e d PAGE 2

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Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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Investment Advisor Representative offering securities & advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial, Gwinnett Tech & Cetera Advisors are not affiliated. Awards are not to be considered a guarantee of future results, nor as an endorsement by any client. Best of Gwinnett winners are chosen via voting and editors’ input, & opinions are vetted with the use of other available information. Pinnacle award rankings are based on growth, revenue, community service, & other criteria. Barron’s: based on total assets (AUM), revenue, & other factors.

Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 3

2021 babies are almost gone!

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Featuring Zupreem, Pretty Bird and Dr. D’s pelleted diets, laAvian seed diets along with our own mix, Fancy Feathers, of seeds specialized for parrots, cockatiels, parakeets, finches and Gouldian finches.

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Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

On the Cover: Celebrate the Season with Bill Rhodes Bakery

By Kristen Eleveld Halloween has come and gone and that can only mean one thing: it’s time for Thanksgiving and Christmas! Whether you plan to celebrate over a video call from around the world or get together with your loved ones around the table, there is one stop you’ll need to make to complete your holiday preparations: the Bill Rhodes Bakery.

Local patrons will remember this bakery as having a rich history since it was first built in the 1980s. In 2019, Lizzy Delapeta and her husband Darius took the reins as owners and operators of this community staple, and while they have faced a slew of renovation and COVID-related obstacles, they have overcome each of them to bring the bakery back to the Snellville community in a big way.

One of Lizzy’s favorite new features is the sprinkle wall, which is exactly what it sounds like: a wall showcasing the many colorful sprinkles that the store offers for decorating (and extra deliciousness). Stick around long enough and you may even see Lizzy or one of her staff pulling a container of sprinkles from the wall to add the finishing touch to a custom-made cake – or their famous petit fours.

While the bakery did temporarily close its physical doors during the height of the COVID pandemic, Lizzy and her team continued to serve the Snellville community by offering a service that allowed customers to order online and pick up their baked goods at curbside. Now that the doors are open again, Lizzy is excited to be able to show people more of the amazing desserts she and her amazing staff are making each day.

“We feel really lucky to be able to provide these services for people,” said Lizzy. “We’re excited that the store is open again so people can come inside and look at the cases full of their

favorite treats.”

As they approach the holiday season, the group at Bill Rhodes Bakery is looking forward to making some seasonal treats for patrons to enjoy. As Thanksgiving approaches, you will not want to miss the chance to try one of their famous pecan pies. But you’ll want to get your order in soon because these pies are hugely popular for the Snellville community and beyond. And as Christmas gets ever closer, you have to try one of the bakery’s best items: their Christmas fruitcake.

“Even if you don’t like fruitcake, you’ll like this one!” said Lizzy, who looks forward to offering these Christmas favorites to her customers.

“We all get excited for the Christmas season in the shop.”

Beyond the four walls of the bakery, you can also find the Bill Rhodes team at the Snellville Christmas tree lighting, where they will bring sugar cookies and decorations to let kids make their own custom design to take home with them. The tree lighting event, which features booths manned by several local businesses, offers participants the change to “buy” booth tickets in exchange for canned goods, which are then donated to the Southeast Gwinnett Co-op. This event gives the bakery the chance to give back to the community that has loved them throughout the years.

As more and more events begin to resume normal operations, Lizzy is also looking forward to being part of more community events, like Lilburn Daze, the Snellville Fall Festival, and any other opportunity she has to offer her services to her neighbors.

ankful f

or

B e Th

Celebrating 20+ Years Years Of Making Smiles Blossom!

“We want to be part of a lot of events and expand our participation within the community,” said Lizzy. “We might be busy, but we also work hard to make sure all of our customers have everything they need.”

If you’re ready to try these treats for yourself, this is the perfect time to head over to the Bill Rhodes Bakery in Snellville.

Whether you just want a little taste of pecan pie or you’re finally willing to try fruitcake, this bakery is the first and last stop you need to make.

More information at www.billrhodesbakery.com or call (770) 979-2253.

A ul if t u a Be le Smi

“Where “Where Smiles Smiles Blossom” Blossom”

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Feature Writers K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Tana Poncsak Emily Rubin Traci Sanders Beth Volpert Johansen

Contributing Writers

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Bill Crane Terie Hansen Bob Smith Jocelyn Wykoff

— An EndResultz Media & Communications firm www.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.

Entire contents copyright 2021 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

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IN THIS ISSUE 5 7 8 8 9 9 10 12 12 14 15 16 17 18 19

On the Cover: Celebrate the Season with Bill Rhodes Bakery From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks Going Green with Georgia Eco Wash Health Matters: Medicare Open Enrollment and You Getting to Know Blake Hawkins and Grayson Farmacy Thanksgiving Tips: How to Practice Gratitude From Germany to Computers: Meet Frank Rakoczy Community Member Spotlight: Meet Traci Sanders Silver Sneakers Program: Exercising at the Wellness Studio One Man’s Opinion: A House Divided The Balancing Act: 2020 Pet Perch: It is All in the Drills Lilburn Co-op: Serving the Community One Family at a Time Hometown Brag: Dr. Meg Rithmire, BHS Class of 2000 Making a Difference: Meet the P4 Foundation

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

Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

From the Publisher:

Prayer of Thanksgiving

Ryan’s Remarks

For each new morning with its light, For rest and shelter of the night.

For health and food, For love and friends.

For everything Thy goodness sends.

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

We have lived through nearly two years of unprecedented times, and it has impacted us differently. We may have been affected physically, emotionally, socially, spiritually, and/or intellectually.

I know (as do you) what month we are in, but when you think about it, it is hard to believe we are in November 2021. It seems like yesterday we were all saying good riddance to 2020 and that we couldn’t wait for 2021. And, yet time flies and here we are inching toward 2022.

Soon we will be celebrating Thanksgiving and all we have to be grateful for. I am thankful for you, our readers, and our advocates. I am grateful to our team, partners, the communities we serve, God’s blessings, and much more. Most importantly, I am thankful that our world is starting to get back to some sense of normalcy.

I have written it before and will write it again. Time goes so fast, and our time on this earth is so short that no day can be taken for granted. We must make every day count. We all have the same 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Therefore, what we do with this precious 168 hours each week makes all the difference.

How have you grown as a person during the pandemic? For example, have you grown physically, socially, spiritually, mentally, and/or intellectually? I know I have and I sure hope you have, too. And if you have not, it is never too late to start. You can be reactive or proactive in life, and I encourage you to choose the latter.

I challenge you to take the high road in dealing with others. Many people are at their emotional maximum, so be a blessing and do not push them over the top. Let us all focus on the many things we have in common and not our differences. As I like to say, let us become more UNITED, not more UNTIED. Have an excellent November and Thanksgiving holiday Our Town Gwinnett community. And as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

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PAGE 7

Going Green with Georgia Eco Wash

By Traci Sanders

Many businesses were hit hard during the pandemic and were forced to close, some permanently. However, several business owners chose to pivot and focus their time and resources on other options.

Ted Wright was an audio technician for a company that contracted with the Atlanta airport. His job was eliminated during the pandemic, and he was forced to find other income sources. Ted was born and raised in Lilburn and grew up fishing and hiking around the local parks and waterways. He has extensive experience in Commercial and Residential construction, knowledge of OSHA safety regulations, and an eye for detail. His wife Sandi was born on Long Island, New York and lived in Maui, Hawaii before making Georgia her home. She was born into an established family retail business, has a degree in marine biology, and has worked as a researcher for a few environmental organizations.

Not only do Ted and Sandi have experience in running successful businesses, but they both share a passion for animals, the environment, and the Lilburn community. They volunteer at pet rescues

such as Barkville Dog Rescue, Angels Among Us, and Canine CellMates. They also volunteer for transporting and fostering local dogs and have donated safety vests and road safety signs to community programs such as Come Clean Gwinnett. They are always looking for ways to contribute to their community and make a difference in the environment.

When Ted lost his job, he and Sandi saw it as an opportunity to do something different that would make a big impact. They came up with the idea of cleaning residential and commercial garbage bins and offering pressure washing services in a way that protects and preserves the environment. Thus, Georgia Eco Wash was born in January 2021.

The first three months were slow due to it being the winter season, but that gave Ted time to build the custom vehicle now used for their services. He bought a small 10-passenger school bus from an online auction, gutted it and installed shelving, water tanks, plumbing, and electricity. He also installed a solar-powered system to run some of the water pumps and designed all the graphics on the outside of the bus.

The business began gaining traction in April through word-of-mouth advertising and posting Continued on page 17

Health Matters: Medicare Open Enrollment and You

By Bob Smith, Health & Life Insurance Advisor

What do Annual Open Enrollment and Halloween have in common?

They seem to start earlier each year with Halloween candy on store shelves and Medicare health plan solicitations in mailboxes, TV, and radio.

Annual Open Enrollment (October 15 to December 7) allows individuals to learn plan designs approved by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS). Open Enrollment provides multiple opportunities: switch Advantage plans; terminate an Advantage plan; return to Original Medicare (not recommended); and select a drug plan (Part D).

Medigap beneficiaries can consider another prescription drug plan. No decision is necessary if a beneficiary is happy with his or her existing coverage as coverage will automatically roll over to the 2022 plan design.

Carrier marketing efforts have become more aggressive promoting plans with enhanced benefits that can include home health care, hearing aids, eyewear, and transportation. Reviewing Provider Networks and drug formularies (list of covered medicines) should not be overlooked when considering changing a plan. To aid in understanding changes, CMS requires each carrier to provide the Annual Notice of Change (ANOC) document. This alerts clients of their benefit changes from year to year, i.e., copay, deductibles, etc.

Other than allowable Special Election Periods (SEP), there are few exceptions to change coverage during a calendar year. It’s essential to be aware of the available options to avoid costly errors.

For example, when confirming drugs in the formulary, you may find one carrier categorizes a drug as a Tier 2, when the same drug is categorized a Tier 3 by another carrier. A carrier can also change the Tier designation of a drug from one year to the next. The difference may cost the patient significantly over the next year if not noticed when confirming plans.

Continued on page 16

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Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Getting to Know Blake Hawkins and Grayson Farmacy

By Kristen Eleveld

A lot of us have big plans to hit the local farmers markets, but when the weekend finally rolls around, we realize we just don’t have the time. We want to buy fresh, local ingredients, but fitting it into our busy schedule isn’t always easy.

Luckily for those of us living in Gwinnett, the Grayson Farmacy will soon be open to solve our problems.

Despite what the name may cause you to think of, the Farmacy will not sell medication, though it will offer relief of a different kind. The Grayson Farmacy is a year-round farmers market and general store that will offer locally produced wares as well as local produce, locally farmed proteins like beef, pork, bison, and lamb, and dairy products including milks and cheeses. It will give patrons the opportunity to check items off their grocery list as well as check out products and produce that may come from their own neighbors.

At the helm of the Grayson Farmacy is Blake Hawkins, a long-time business owner who felt the call to make a change from the restaurant industry to the more localized Farmacy. You will probably recognize several others as friends who have been assisting Blake with community connections, social media, manning the pop-up markets, and being part of the planning that goes into this kind of endeavor. Long-time friends Dan Schuster, Coral Lynn, Meyer Whittaker, and Gail Lane are well-known in Gwinnett as “go-to” folks when assistance is needed.

“I love making these connections right in our community and providing locally sourced goods of all types,” said Blake.

If you’re picturing the Farmacy to look like one of your favorite old country stores, you hit the nail on the head. Blake and his team have a vision of creating an atmosphere that makes you feel at home as soon as you park your car, complete with a big front porch that offers people the chance to sit and catch up with each other.

Located in the Railyard in downtown Grayson, the Farmacy will offer the perfect combination of shopping and socialization. The plans include a large walnut communal table that allows shoppers to sit down with their friends -- or even with the staff -- to discuss current events, favorite movies, Continued on page 13

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.

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. 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.

6. 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 Continued on page 22

Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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From Germany to Computers: Meet Frank Rakoczy

By Emily Rubin

It started with an interest in playing video games on computers in a mall in Germany. Frank Rakoczy was just thirteen years old when home computers were becoming popular, but he could not afford the high prices. A few years later, Frank saved every penny to buy his own used computer.

“The computer was some sort of special proprietary computer with some special parts, and it was not normal,” Frank said. “And I messed it up.”

Because he had spent so much money, Frank was determined to fix the computer. He read literature that he found at his library and started working on the problem. His research got him hooked, and after two sleepless nights, he managed to fix the computer by himself.

“Ever since then I’ve been looking into problems and I want to fix them,” Frank said.

Frank quickly picked up how to repair his own issues, and not long after he was fixing computers belonging to family, friends, and friends of friends.

Unfortunately, working on computers in the 80s was not a great way to make money, so Frank

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had to find a job to support his passion. He learned blacksmithing and worked with his father, even though he was not very interested in the job.

In his free time, Frank continued to read more and more literature on computers and gained a large amount of knowledge on the subject.

He began looking for computer repair job openings and became even more intrigued by computers. Frank decided to go to school to get a degree in computer science.

“Working on computers was not really my main job until I had the degree,” Frank said.

“But I always did it for friends and people I met who had computer problems.”

Frank was presented with many opportunities to show off his skills. One opportunity came shortly after he earned his degree.

Frank’s best friend was working in the cruise industry at the time and asked Frank to join him in the Canary Islands to start an internet café. Frank helped the locals with their computer needs while working at the café, but he was eager for a new opportunity.

While living on the island, Frank met a German man who was launching a start-up company in the United States and needed someone to be his in-house IT manager in San Jose, California.

“I said, ‘Of course I’m interested. I always wanted to live in the United States,’” Frank said.

“And that’s how I ended up here.”

The business was a success and in the early 2000s it expanded to Atlanta. Frank decided to take the chance and move to the south where he quickly felt at home.

After living in Atlanta for a while, Frank met the love of his life Elaine. The two met while Frank was working in a comedy club in Buckhead where Elaine was a guest. Elaine was a bridal consultant and needed help fixing her business computer.

“We started talking and talking turned into helping her with her computer and turned into love,” Frank said.

The two married on July 7, 2007 because 7 was always Frank and Elaine’s lucky number.

Frank started working for an Atlanta computer store and Elaine started working for an event space. When the pandemic hit, however, both of them lost their sources of income.

“Of course, everything got really, really complicated,” Frank said. “I never give up.”

Frank had the idea to start Grayson Computers, his own computer business. He offered to pick up computers, clean them, fix them, clean them again, and bring them back to his customers. He also offered to fix issues remotely by logging into customers’ computers from his home so no contact would need to be made.

He continues to offer his remote and mobile services, but he wishes to open a storefront in the future. Right now, Frank and Elaine are the only two working on Grayson Computers. Elaine helps with daily business needs such as answering phones and scheduling, on top of her own dried flowers business.

“The goals for Grayson Computers are to have a local store, employ some people, and focus on giving customers a trusted source and building long lasting relationships,” Frank said.

When he isn’t fixing computers, Frank can be found cooking German dishes for Elaine and their friends, rooting for the UGA bulldogs, and playing with his rescue dog Stella.

More information at graysoncomputers.com or call (404) 287-8402.

Gwinnett OBGYN Gwinnett welcomes OBGYN welcomes Dr. Jasmine Hawkins

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Afterwards, attended medical school at the University of she Mississippi Medicalmedical Center where she her bachelor’s in preshemedicine/biochemistry.

Afterwards, attended and theHawkins OB/GYN residency graduation in 2017.

Her and loveattended women’s health started as a senior school when Dr.joined Jasmine was born andupon raised in Medical Laplace, Louisiana Alcorn State University where in shehigh obtained her school at the University of Mississippi Center andforjoined the OB/GYN residency upon graduation she became interested in teen health advocacy andshe since then expounded as sheatcontinued to obtain knowledge in the field. bachelor’s in pre medicine/biochemistry.

Afterwards, attended medical school the University of Mississippi Medical Center in 2017.

Her love for women’s health started as a senior in high school when she became interested Hawkins is marriedresidency with 2 children, enjoys sports (especially baseball), traveling, cooking, James andDr. joined the OB/GYN upon graduation in 2017.

Her love for women’s health startedreading as a senior in Patterson high schooland whenin John Grisham spending andcontinued friends. teen health advocacy since then and expounded as with shefamily continued to obtain knowledge inthe thefield. field. she became interested in teenand health advocacy since then time expounded as she to obtain knowledge in Dr. Dr. Hawkins is married with 2 children, sports (especially baseball), traveling, cooking, reading James Patterson and Hawkins is married with enjoys 2 children, enjoys sports (especially baseball), traveling, cooking, John Grisham and spending time with family and friends. reading James Patterson and John Grisham and spending time with family and friends.

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PAGE 11

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Traci Sanders

By Beth Volpert Johansen

Eclectic interests and a variety of talents provide Traci Sanders with plenty to write about. As the next featured subject in Our Town Gwinnett’s series showcasing its feature writers, Traci tells a great story and offers others encouragement when it comes to telling their own stories.

The author of eleven published titles, Traci finds that writing for different types of outlets keeps her fresh and “in the know.” While her body of work spans from parenting to romance, it is the self-help genre that pulls her in and gives her an opportunity to help others realize their own publishing dreams in her daily work.

“I help women self-publish books,” says Traci. “It isn’t as easy as it might seem to establish a writing business; it’s a process.” Traci’s website (www.TraciSanders.com) and social media presence are nothing short of a complete cheer team for women. Whether you are a mama in need of some positivity or a writer in need of support, Traci has it all in a gentle and friendly format. And she has a great sense of humor, too!

As a former childcare center owner, Traci knows what it means to do all the jobs and keep her sense of humor. In fact, I’m pretty sure television host Mike Rowe could have included Traci in an episode of Dirty Jobs after fourteen years of daycare ownership (Mamas know!). After a time when she had potty-trained thirty kids, someone told her that she should write a potty-training book. So, she did. That was her first “help” book that bolstered her commitment to continuing writing for publication. “Funny thing is I am starting all over and may need to read my own book,” Traci says with a laugh. “We have been blessed with our first grandchild and also a five-month-old Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy, so the potty-training has begun again!”

Beyond the realities of everyday life, Traci finds her mind roaming to the stories yet to be told and those of the people she has interviewed throughout her career. “I often wonder what has happened to some of the people in the features I have written,” says Traci. “I think about them, but also look forward to the next interview so I can meet new people and learn about their dreams.”

One of the things Traci values about the shorter pieces is positivity. “My creative process is really good when I can get into a positive piece,” says Traci. “I love these pieces so much and have found that they have really helped me process the stress of this pandemic. Shining a light on the good things in the world has been very cathartic.”

Providing cathartic moments doesn’t stop at the written word for Traci. In her Rise Up, Mamas! podcast, Traci discusses “practical strategies that will inspire, educate, and empower real women through the rollercoaster journey of motherhood.” Strong enough to take on the tough topics, Traci offers real-world, tried-and-true insight based on her book, Rise Up, Mamas! in which she seeks to “help women get rid of mom guilt and embrace the greatest role you’ll ever play.”

Not unlike other writers, or even those who make a living behind the camera, Traci is far more comfortable promoting and instructing others. “Everybody has a story,” says Traci. “I coach women never to compare their story to others and think theirs isn’t worthy. Each of us is the author of our own story.”

To that end, Traci’s commitment to telling stories is strong. “Nobody has the same tone or pacing on their journey,” explains Traci. “I want to continue embracing the positive by going out and helping others tell their story.”

More information at www.TraciSanders.com

Silver Sneakers Program: Exercising at the Wellness Studio

By Tana Poncsak

For twenty-five years Angela Kelly worked as an executive assistant in an office environment. But after a car accident that caused her to have back problems, one of her doctors encouraged her to try yoga to help with the pain. She committed to 30 days, three days a week, and by the end of that time, she could touch her toes again and felt remarkedly better. So much better that she decided to become a yoga instructor.

While teaching yoga at the Wellness Studio at ProMotion Physical Therapy in Grayson, she was offered the opportunity to teach a Silver Sneakers Chair Yoga class. That opportunity ignited a passion in her for the Silver Sneakers Program and fueled her desire to help other senior citizens like herself.

“I just love it,” she said. “I’m a Sliver Sneaker person myself. I’m sixty-eight years old, and since Silver Sneaker attendees must be sixty-five and over, they are my people.”

Continued on page 14

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Getting to Know the Grayson Farmacy Continued from page 9 or whatever happens to be on their minds.

“This will not just be a place where you say hello and goodbye,” said Blake. “We want everyone to share their experiences and build real connections and relationships.”

Aside from the vast array of homegrown produce and hand-crafted wares, the Farmacy will also offer classes for all ages. Young children will have the opportunity to learn how to grow their own garden, while adults might enjoy trying a hand at a pottery class. The Farmacy hopes to not only give people the chance to learn about what it means to their community to buy locally, but also to give people the inspiration to try out their own cooking or crafting skills at home.

If this sounds like an environment you want to be part of, you can follow their progress (and participate in their famous Tomato Sandwich debate) on their Facebook and Instagram accounts, which are also the best way to get in touch with any questions or ideas.

“This will be a local, convenient, one-stop shop for everyone,” said Blake. “We are thrilled to be part of the Railyard with these other Grayson entrepreneurs.”

More information at www.facebook.com/GraysonFarmacy or www.instagram.com/graysonfarmacyblake

Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 13

Silver Sneakers Program: Continued from page 12 Silver Sneakers is covered by some Medicare supplements, but eligible seniors can also attend additional non-Silver Sneaker classes at the Wellness Studio with a monthly membership.

“I found my niche,” Kelly said. “Whether you’re sixty-five or you’re in your eighties, it doesn’t matter. We have so much fun in class, and we get to know one another on a personal level.”

It’s the comradery and the physical improvements that Kelly sees in the attendees that inspires her to do more.

“We’re all going through the process of getting older,” Kelly said. “We all have our aches and pains. We can stay as strong and as healthy as we want to be by doing simple exercises. I’ve seen dramatic improvements in the people who attend the classes.”

And according to Kelly, that’s the goal of the studio – to help people become stronger, more stable, confident, and live more productive lives. And she jumps at an opportunity to try to convince people to come to Silver Sneakers.

From the student’s perspective, Kelly said the consensus is that the Wellness Studio is a welcoming environment where they never feel intimidated or judged, and where they feel right at home when they enter the studio.

Of course, like many other places, the Wellness Studio had to make some adjustments due to the pandemic. Kelly said Amanda Pilz, owner and physical therapist, didn’t miss a beat. She, along with the rest of the staff, worked on how to get Zoom going, and after a couple of weeks, everyone got into a rhythm. And even though the Silver Sneaker students were at home, they were still able to spend that hour exercising with their friends.

“It was a real blessing,” Kelly said. “She (Amanda) is so committed to the health and strength of everyone, she did what she needed to do to keep things going.”

Kelly describes the Wellness Studio as a small studio offering personal and professional instruction in a welcoming environment.

“The people are cared for,” she said. “It’s a genuine warm and friendly environment, and in my opinion that sets it head and shoulders above the big-box gyms.”

The studio offers a number of Silver Sneaker classes that includes Zumba, chair yoga, Enerchi, and circuit training. Kelly said it doesn’t matter what your physical condition is, as long as you’re willing to try and make the commitment toward improvement. Anyone can do it. Kelly encourages anyone who is interested to visit the studio.

“You have to start somewhere,” she said.

More information at www.promotionpt.com.

PAGE 14

One Man’s Opinion: A House Divided

By Bill Crane

Over the years, I have had the honor and pleasure of assisting, staffing, and supporting both Democratic and Republican candidates and officeholders, from the US Senate and Georgia’s Governor’s office to sheriffs and local county commissions. There are certainly differences in philosophy and approach between the two major parties, but good people still exist and seek careers in public service on both sides of the aisle.

Georgia’s Republican Party had a long drought and ride to eventually becoming Georgia’s majority party. The Georgia GOP won its first statewide contest with US Senator Mack Mattingly in 1980. It would be November of 1992 before they would win statewide again with US Senator-elect Paul Coverdell and Public Service Commissioner Bobby Baker. During the rest of the 1990s, the state became redder, politically speaking, first with a GOP majority of its Congressional delegation in 1994, as Congressman Newt Gingrich swept into the Speaker’s office on the back of his Contract with America campaign. Other statewide wins would follow, and the Governor’s office began to become competitive. In 2002, then State Senator Sonny Perdue would score an upset win over incumbent Governor Roy Barnes, as then 8th District Congressman Saxby Chambliss ousted popular Democratic incumbent US Senator Max Cleland.

But beginning with the campaign for the presidency by US Senator Hillary Clinton in 2016, that GOP lock on the northern suburbs began to crumble. Demographic shifts were accompanied by a dramatic shift right on numerous social issues, chasing off moderates, independents, Libertarian, and many nonpartisan voters who had leaned or voted in close contests for the GOP nominee. During 2016, 2018, and most recently 2020, the GOP has witnessed its share of the vote in the top 10 most populous counties, all surrounding metro Atlanta, continue to decline. Among the top 10 in 2020, only Cherokee and Forsyth counties went red in the presidential contest. This would tell most political strategists and tacticians that the party might reconsider pitching that Big Tent so often described by President Ronald Reagan, with room available not only for Reagan Democrats and Libertarians, but fiscal conservatives, business folks (Chamber of Commerce Republicans) and Continued on page 20

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The Balancing Act: 2020

Annual Open Enrollment

By Jocelyn Wykoff

Dolly Parton is quoted saying, “Find out who you are and do it on purpose.” Three hundred eighty-seven days ago, I was handed this opportunity – although not many would recognize it as an opportunity. In fact, at the time, I considered it a failure. On September 30, 2020, I lost my job of nearly ten years due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Not only was our world in the middle of a health crisis, but now my family would possibly be faced with a financial burden.

I personally felt like a failure and worst of all, I had no idea what my next steps would be in the following days.

The Guilt This was the first time in my working life I was unemployed not by my own choice. The guilt and embarrassment I felt was overwhelming – I cried for days. How would I face my husband? My kids? Oh gosh, my mom? But more importantly, how would I face myself? So much of what I had deemed to be me was based on my success in my career.

The Anger As the initial wave of shock eased, anger soon replaced it. I was angry. Bitter. Why me? I had worked for so long and hard and had given up so many hours of family time to achieve my position. Had it gone unnoticed? Where were all my so-called work buddies? Was I not good enough?

At the moment I was giving myself my very own pity party. Because, what else was I supposed to do?

The Support Although initially it was blurred by many other stages of emotion, I was very lucky to have been surrounded by an amazing support system. My husband and kids loved me and allowed me space to process my new reality. My best friends picked me up, made me laugh, and forced me to get out of the house. And, my mom – well, she had a blanket made for me that said, “To my daughter: Whenever you feel overwhelmed, remember whose daughter you are and straighten your crown.

Always remember you are braver than you think, stronger than you seem, and loved more than you know.” I had a choice, I could continue feeling sorry for myself, or I could pick myself up, hold my head high, and put one foot in front of the other.

The Opportunity During my two months of unemployment, I did just that. I straightened my “crown,” dried my eyes, worked the stress out through grueling CrossFit workouts, and made a promise to myself: I would never give up and I would never let something, or someone make me feel like a failure again. I knocked the dust off my resumé and began rediscovering who I was, who I wanted to be, and how I was going to get there.

The Blessing A professional relationship made through my involvement with the Kiwanis Club of Monroe had blessed me with a new job! What I didn’t realize initially was that this new place would be not only a place to call my work home and pay bills, but also a place to heal and become stronger. For 326 days, I have been blessed with this new chapter in life that includes new and valuable friendships, personal growth, and a stronger spirituality. An opportunity once deemed as a failure has to date become one of my biggest blessings in disguise, and I’m thankful for the journey.

“For I know the plans I have for you declares THE LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” Jeremiah 29:11 Jocelyn Wykoff is a dreamer, believer, wife and mompreneur of the Wykoff Household.

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PAGE 15

Pet Perch: It is All in the Drills

By Terie Hansen

Sit/down/sit drills firm up your dog’s sit and down commands.

When you tell your dog to sit or down that is what your pet should do, and he or she should hold that command until told to do otherwise.

Oftentimes when owners give their dog the sit command the dog sits for a little bit and then either pops up or lays down. Follow through and have your dog do what you told him or her to do, not what your pet feels like doing. Allowing your dog to ignore your command gives your pet the go ahead to not listen to you at other times.

Let’s say you tell your dog to come to you, but in the past you’ve allowed your dog to do what he or she feels like doing instead of listening to you; then in that moment that’s exactly what your pet will do. Follow through to get what you asked for.

Here are some reasons why dogs don’t listen to their owners: 1. They weren’t taught the command in the first place! ***Your dog does not speak English! You cannot ask your dog to do something that you have not taught them.

2. The command was not taught properly and/or long enough. ***It takes a lot of patterning over weeks of time. Thousands of consistent repetitions for your dog to grasp a concept fully.

3. They weren’t consistently made to follow through and do the command. *** You give the dog a command and for one of the above reasons he or she doesn’t do it, and you don’t follow through to make it happen.

4. You haven’t maintained what you taught your dog. ***Even if you taught it and your dog knew the command(s) very well at one point, if you don’t use it enough your dog will lose it. Use the commands that you have taught your dog daily. Work them into your daily routine. It’s simple at that point. Use them when you’re making your breakfast or grabbing your coffee, before you go in or out of doors, at feeding time, before getting in the car, while watching TV, eating dinner, or inviting guests into your home.

These are all great times to insert a sit, down, or place command. Throw in some recalls while you’re walking your dog or playing in the yard. It’s all in the drills. Drills engage your dog and maintain a high level of performance, which makes your pet much more enjoyable to live with.

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

Health Matters Continued from page 8

PAGE 16

This article aims to provide insight as decisions can be complicated and, once made, can’t be changed for the calendar year unless qualifying for an SEP designation. Take time to consider options which a licensed agent, certified annually to represent plans with Medicare contracts, can be a vital part of a risk adverse strategy.

More information at BobCaresForYou.com or call 404.593.9663.

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Lilburn Co-op: Serving the Community One Family at a Time

By Traci Sanders

The pandemic took a financial toll on many families, leaving many without food and the basic life necessities, and unable to cover their monthly household expenses. Since 1994 Lilburn Co-op has been doing its part to remedy crises like this by bringing supplies and hope to thousands of families in need in the Lilburn, Stone Mountain, and Gwinnett County portion of Tucker.

This non-profit Christian ministry is funded through private monetary donations and sales of donated goods in its store, Lily’s Cloak. These contributions allow the Lilburn Co-op to provide nutritious food, tangible assistance, resources for economic empowerment, and spiritual growth through their church partners. The Co-op’s goal is to lift those in need into productive independence. Volunteers are also an integral part of the Co-op’s operations as they work in the food pantry, pick up and deliver food, sort donations, and help in the thrift store.

Lily’s Cloak is located in the Mountain Park area of Gwinnett and is open Monday through Saturday. “You’ll feel like you’re in a consignment store, but at thrift store prices,” a representative from the Co-op shared. “We offer everything from women’s, children’s, and men’s clothing to household items, toys, and collectibles.” Lily’s Cloak provides free clothing every six months to families in need.

Kay’s Pantry is one of the sub-programs of the Co-op. Bi-weekly they provide food to families in need who are unable to receive full food stamps through the Department of Family and Children Services.

The Lilburn Co-op also provides emergency financial assistance (up to $250) one time per year to eligible families. This money is typically used to help cover rent, mortgage, utilities, and car expenses such as car payments, insurance, and simple auto repairs.

The Co-op has plans to build a 3,500 sq. ft. market-style food pantry in the near future, where

community members can shop with dignity while enjoying a warm, inviting atmosphere with a friendly staff.

The pantry will be free of charge and will offer nutritious food options as well as showering and laundering facilities for those who are experiencing temporary homelessness. The future site will also house a meeting room for empowerment workshops that focus on self-sufficiency and growing stronger as a community.

The projected cost for this building is $400,000, so donations are greatly needed and appreciated. The Co-op is asking for donations in increments of $115 to cover each square foot of the building.

The Lilburn Co-op is certainly doing its best to live up to its mission statement of Strengthening the Lilburn Community by Providing Food and Resources for Lasting Empowerment.

More information at https://lilburnco-op.org/ or call 770-931-8333.

Going Green with Georgia Eco Wash Continued from page 8 in local Facebook groups. By the end of April, Ted and Sandi started advertising on Next Door and gained even more customers. They were averaging 6-8 jobs per week by the end of June, and have since serviced around 75 residential homes and 5 commercial entities, many of whom have contracted with Georgia Eco Wash for monthly and bi-monthly cleanings.

The couple also builds and donates custom shelves out of recycled wood pallets to be used as art displays at Citizen Exchange gallery in downtown Lilburn. Ted enjoys making new things out of recycled materials, and a few of his pieces can be found at the Ritz Carlton at Reynolds Plantation in Eatonton.

This husband-and-wife team are on a mission to provide cleaning services in the Metro Atlanta area that are safer for pets and the environment. Customers can receive hot and cold pressure washing, garbage bin cleaning, graffiti removal, and house washing without the use of harmful chemicals.

Ted and Sandi offer discounts to their customers and donate a portion of their proceeds to local fundraising efforts. “We believe garbage bin cleaning services and home maintenance services can be eco-friendly and pet-friendly and will become more commonplace in the future,” Ted stated, “and we’re excited to expand and grow with that trend in the community.”

More information at http://www.georgiaecowash.com/.

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PAGE 17

Hometown Brag: Dr. Meg Rithmire, BHS Class of 2000

By K. Coats

When choosing which novels to cover in class, language arts teachers try to be deliberate with their choices. Something meaningful and appealing. Something unique. Something the students will like. Moreover, as much thought as teachers give to those novel choices, they aren’t usually anticipated to be life-changing. Well, for Brookwood class of 2000 graduate Dr. Meg Rithmire, that is exactly what happened. She remembers, “I started thinking about China because I had a project in my senior year at Brookwood on a book called Waiting by Ha Jin. The author lived in our community at the time and worked with our class. I am so grateful to him for caring enough about high school students to share his work and insights, and to Ms. Collins for pushing her students to see the world through literature.”

The “Ms. Collins” Dr. Rithmire refers to is Brookwood High School retiree Jolinda Collins. “I have always been a dedicated reader,” Dr. Rithmire says, “and she worked so hard to push students to express their best ideas about what they read and encountered.” In addition to AP Literature, Dr. Rithmire also credits AP Government for introducing her to politics.

After high school, Dr. Rithmire began a journey that would eventually lead her through Emory University before landing a position as a F. Warren McFarlan Associate Professor at Harvard. “I am a professor at Harvard Business School,” she explains, “where I primarily teach MBA students.

My research and teaching focus on politics and the economy, and my regional focus is Asia and China. I teach about globalization from a wide range of perspectives, and my current research is about China’s domestic politics and US-China relations.” She credits both her school as well as her community for her interests. “I benefited a lot from growing up in the Atlanta area around a diverse group of people, and I am glad it grew more diverse as I grew up there,” Dr. Rithmire says.

“I am sure my interest in Asia and the world comes from encounters with people who had lived such different lives from mine. I am grateful I encountered them. I also got a great education at excellent public schools.”

Another area Dr. Rithmire credits her success to is debate. “I started as a freshman and continued throughout high school, competing nationally and attending summer camps at the University of Michigan,” she remembers. “I did the fast talking, sort of crazy kind of debate, not the polished speech making. We did serious research. I learned to use a college library at fourteen. Nothing had a bigger impact on my development than debate. I also participated in a lot of volunteer organizations and student government.” No doubt, this also came in handy when defending her thesis, one of Dr. Rithmire’s proudest accomplishments.

Reality can take some of the wind from one’s sail when pursuing one’s passions, and China

was no exception for Dr. Rithmire. “I started studying China when the world, and many in the US, had a lot of excitement and hope for what was happening there,” she recalls. “My first trip to China was in 2001, and people in China were also so optimistic.” But the funny thing about optimism is that it has an ebb and flow as reliable as the tide, as Dr. Rithmire discovered. “The optimism has subsided, both for me and within China,” she explains. “The research I do now is much more constrained by politics and logistics, and the conversations I am a part of are more depressing. I still feel it is important for people like me, who have spent a lot of time trying to understand China’s nuances, to contribute to these conversations. But the last several years have required me to think more about my role in the US and in US-China interactions, and it is not always exciting.”

But while the dynamics with her first academic love might have shifted over the years, Dr. Rithmire’s drive is as admirable as ever as she strives for the holy grail of academia – tenure. Should she achieve that goal, which no doubt she will, Dr. Rithmire won’t be resting on her laurels for long. “I’d like to take some time to think about how I would use the incredible privilege of a permanent job to take on some projects that would really be otherwise impossible,” she says. “And ideally ones that would benefit society in some way.” Since she credits her own community with part of her success, it seems only natural that she would want to give back.

But Dr. Rithmire is not waiting for tenure to come around before giving back. “In my new community in Massachusetts,” she says, “I am taking the moments of turmoil in the last couple of years – the pandemic, the racial reckoning – to figure out how I can be a part of building a stronger, fairer local life. Right now, I am enjoying working with an organization that distributes fresh food to needy residents.” Furthermore, she is also taking the time to savor the smaller joys as well. “I have two wonderful children, ages 7 and 3,” she adds. “They take up a lot of time! I enjoy mountain biking with my son, hiking with both of them, beach trips, cooking, normal things!”

While most of Dr. Rithmire’s professional work is directed towards her academic colleagues, she has written articles for The Washington Post and The Atlantic concerning China and its global role. She has also contributed to a book of essays called The China Questions.

Our Town Gwinnett Magazine and the community would like to thank Dr. Meg Rithmire for her work and wish her the best as she pursues tenure at Harvard. You make us proud.

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Nov ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Making a Difference: Meet the P4 Foundation

By Beth Volpert Johansen

Solid foundations are critical for strength. It doesn’t matter whether the subject is a physical structure or the more delicate family structure.

At a time when crisis hits, a structure is only as solid as its foundation. When a family takes the very brutal hit of a childhood cancer diagnosis, their support system may need to be shored-up with the kind of specialized love and care provided by the P4 Foundation.

The P4 Foundation works directly with children and families impacted by childhood cancer to provide support, hope, and faith-filled encouragement – as well as tips for health and wellness – before, during, and after treatment. Completely funded by donations, the P4 Foundation is the result of one very strong young man, Gino Vizzi, who, when faced with his own diagnosis of an extremely rare childhood cancer, chose to strengthen his support system, as well as offer help and hope to others who were faced with their own challenging childhood cancer.

When Gino and his family heard the initial diagnosis, they reacted in a variety of ways. David Vizzi, Gino’s dad, described the moment of impact as the worst moment of his life, but seeing his son rally from a position of absolute vulnerability gave him pause to consider his son’s “servant heart.”

“We were at the hospital with Gino – as a family – to support him,” describes David, who also serves as the foundation’s president. “He saw this one little girl by herself whose mom was the sole provider for her four children. Gino thought about how he had all of this support and this girl was facing this treatment on her own.”

With the full support of his family, his Mill Creek Baseball teammates, and the community, Gino thought about how to help families facing a diagnosis of childhood cancer. “There was no stopping him,” says David. The family learned of Gino’s diagnosis on September 9th, 2014 and they

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launched their efforts in November of the same year. “My wife was a rock; I fell apart,” admits David. “The foundation gave me a focus to get out of the negativity of his illness.”

With the idea that no parent should ever have to hear the words of a diagnosis and no child should have to fight alone, Gino began to pour himself into finding a way to fight his own battle as well as support and help lead others along a path with which his family had suddenly found themselves.

Some of the areas of need that the P4 Foundation addresses include: extensive treatment costs, gas, groceries, utility bills, helping to afford fun activities, and, with a sobering acknowledgement, funeral and memorial expenses.

Continued on page 22

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PAGE 19

One Man’s Opinion: A House Divided Continued from page 14 even the many RHINOs now so often derided by longtime GOP activists. The “GOP Grassroots,” as they are called, received their most recent and significant landscaping around the creation of the Tea Party in 2010.

Without too heavily stereotyping, much of this group remains enthralled with former President Donald J. Trump, and the most popular applause line on the campaign trail this cycle involves some variation on “Stop the Steal,” referring to numerous unproven and outright fraudulent election conspiracy theories and allegations of wrongdoing or nothing doing by Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensberger, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp, and Lieutenant Governor Geoff Duncan in the aftermath of the November 2020 General Election.

During the November 2020 General Election, the GOP lost one Congressional seat, came in second in one of the US Senate contests, and picked up seats in the State House and State Senate. It was not an election cycle for statewide Constitutional offices. But other than the Trump contest lost to Joe Biden by a few hundred votes less than 12,000, Georgia’s GOP had an excellent

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night. Apparently, an evening they may choose to replay over and over straight out of the majority.

Georgia’s GOP, once a proponent of leaner government, greater transparency, running government more like a business, and leaving room for a broad array of opinion and points of view, has devolved almost into a mono-syllabic chanting society, looking backward versus forward, and conducting a never-ending series of circular firing squads, often with its well-established officeholders and incumbents taking that fire. Go figure.

This should be a year for re-calibrating, potentially broadening appeal, and solidifying power for Georgia’s GOP, but as President Abraham Lincoln once said about our nation, a house divided against itself cannot long endure. The current GOP rank and file appear more intent on taking out each other than taking on a powerful ticket topped by incumbent US Senator Raphael Warnock (D-Atlanta), and most likely vote-getting goliath Stacey Abrams in a rematch with Governor Brian Kemp. If the GOP doesn’t change direction and start looking forward instead of backward, they will have only themselves to blame for what may become devastating losses up and down the ballot next fall.

Crane is the senior political analyst with WSB Radio and TV and owns the full-service communications firm, CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com

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PAGE 21

Meet the P4 Foundation Continued from page 19 With his family and community still firmly in his corner, Gino is completing his college degree in biology. He was recently accepted into Life University School of Chiropractic which will allow Gino to complete his personal goal of helping to take care of himself and others in the most innovative and healthy ways available. “Gino is driven to be able to help others financially, spiritually, and emotionally,” says his dad. “His ability to impact the lives of so many people is a testament to his strength.”

As Gino is moving into a new phase in his education and career, the P4 Foundation is embarking upon a “facelift” that will further expand the ability to impact lives. “We are working towards shifting the focus from Gino to shedding light on the impact of a childhood cancer diagnosis,” explains David. “The current pandemic has pointed out that even though people are dealing with all things Covid-related, cancer has not stopped.”

In order to grow the reach of the foundation, the Board has worked closely with many sponsors to tell the stories of exactly how important the work has become. The website and social media presences are being updated, and a new video spotlighting the children and their families who have found a home in the P4 Foundation has been produced. “Even though we had to stop doing events

for a while, the work continued,” says David. “Our partners have been incredible in helping us impact the daily lives of our families.”

Each posting is a testament to the bravery among those who fight their diagnosis of childhood cancer each day. Reading the stories gives a great deal of perspective to everyday life, even in the face of pandemic. Every smile shows that empathy is strong among the youth of our community, and it takes just one determined person to make a world of difference. Good luck at school, Gino!

More information at www.P4Foundation.org or Facebook and Instagram.

Thanksgiving Tips Continued from page 9 act could make a big impact.

7. 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.

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PAGE 23

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