OCT 2017: Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Monthly Magazine

OCTOBER 2017 Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Lawrenceville Snellville Lilburn Stone Mountain Tucker

Meet the team at Mainstreet Guns & Range, where safety comes first.

See story on page 5

11 12 13 17

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Cara Sullivan & Family Stay Connected with Snellville Commerce Club Battle of Five Forks: Family Night of Fun for a Great Cause Getting Schooled with Parkview Teacher of the Year Matt Moon

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PAGE 4 OTG-BLUE FP 4C 2017-10 ToOCT become PS0139 MECH FLAG.indd 1an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

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8/30/17 5:14 PM

On the Cover: Safety First: Meet Jim and Genny Hornsby of Mainstreet Guns & Range

By Daidra Annis Jim and Genny Hornsby are native Georgians who spent their career in the garment business, serving customers internationally from showrooms in New York City, Dallas, Chicago, and Atlanta. When retirement came calling, the Hornsby’s instead chose to embark on a new career in the retail firearms industry. Jim has always had an interest in guns, so in 2001 the Hornsby’s started their new business working gun shows, and quickly became one of the largest gun show retailers in the Southeast. Then, in early 2013, Mainstreet Guns and Range opened in Lilburn. Nearly five years later, with an inventory of approximately 3,000 guns, they currently host the largest selection of guns in the region.

The state of Georgia is favorable to gun rights, and of course, a lot of customers collect firearms as a hobby or for leisure use. But what also brings many customers to their door is a heightened awareness of crime, and the growing desire to protect themselves. Purchasing a firearm can be an intimidating experience, but the Hornsby’s take a lot of pride in their facility, and strive to create a positive environment where all shoppers are comfortable. It might seem like minor details, but the clean, crisp showroom, tasteful animal décor in the hunting area, and even the pristine restrooms were designed to be especially positive for women. Currently, about 38% of Mainstreet’s customers are women, which makes Jim and Genny very proud.

Mainstreet Guns and Range focuses on customer relations and training. The on-site gun range is frequently remodeled to make sure it is not just appealing, but also safe for all customers. There is a classroom on-site where customers can register for day-long gun safety courses taught by employees that are NRA-Certified Trainers. Customers can also try out a firearm

before purchasing, thanks to a selection of 120 rental guns. In addition, they have a large selection of like-new firearms. Whether the guns come to the store via buy, sell, or trade, each weapon is inspected and tested to ensure safety and performance. Used guns are a great option for new gun owners since they offer a lessexpensive, but still high-quality firearm.

With a full-time compliance officer (unusual for a retail establishment), and regularly scheduled ATF inspections, the Hornsby’s and their staff have earned the trust and respect of their customers over the last five years. Community involvement is also important, and you can meet the team and grab range passes and gun safety information at the Mainstreet Gun and Range booth at most community events in Lilburn and Snellville.

More information at mainstreetfirearms.com

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PAGE 5

Four Agents - One Team One Goal 100% Customer Satisfaction • Sold 90% of properties listed in 2016

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Our Town Gwinnett/NE DeKalb Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com Editor Catherine L. Osornio Cover Photographer Amadorphoto Distribution Coordinator

DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers

Daidra Annis Heidi Campbell Dana Harvey Kim Hill J. Rice Joanna Shackelford Karla Socci Somers Michelle Watson Contributing Writers Chris Buckley Terie Hansen Javier Munoz Amy Ney Carol Wood

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm 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 2017 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

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

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

IN THIS ISSUE “Exceptional coffees and teas complimented with house made breads, sweets and savories.”

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5 7 8 9

On the Cover: Mainstreet Guns & Range From the Publisher: An Acronym We SHALT Remember Making a Difference: S.O.S. Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen Home of Hope: Offers Lasting Hope to Homeless Mothers and Their Children October Photo of the Month: Watching the 2017 Solar Eclipse One on One with DS Murphy Inspections Community Member Spotlight: Meet Cara Sullivan & Family Get Connected with Snellville Commerce Club Battle of Five Forks: Family Night of Fun for a Great Cause Character Counts: Up Close with NG3 Parkview The Raymond Family: Catalysts for Change in Downtown Lilburn Parkview is over the “Moon” with their 2017-18 Teacher of the Year Learning Lessons: How to Read Faster Pet Perch: Gadgets and Gizmos for Your Pet Money Matters: Don’t Bank Your Retirement on Your Business Getting to Know: Diamond in the Rough

10 10 11 12 13 15 16 17 851 Oak Road 18 Lawrenceville GA 19 (470) 268-7430 20 beansandbutter.com 21 To become an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

From the Publisher:

American Heritage Animal Hospital

An Acronym We SHALT Remember

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

Most people are very much the same. We all eat and drink. We all sleep.

We all live and die. We all seek to be loved. And, we all have different emotions. It is what makes us human. What we have in common (UNITE) is far greater than anything that makes us different (UNTIE). With that said, I want to focus on an idea from a book by Laurie Jones. It is the word/acronym SHALT. SHALT stands for: Sad, Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired.

How many times have you said something or written something you later regretted? How often have you acted in an “out of character” manner and wished you could get a “do over”? If you are like me, you have done so, and this information should prove helpful.

If you are sad, it is best to postpone a decision until you are in the right frame of mind. You will be glad you did. Second, many of us get grumpy when we are hungry. So, if you have not eaten, wait until you are no longer hungry and you will think more clearly and communicate more effectively.

How about when we are angry? In the world of social media, it is easy to fire off a tweet, post, text, or email in seconds. You know the drill – when someone makes you mad, blast them right then for the whole world to see. Of course, this is not the best thing to do. Like sadness, anger is an emotion that will settle itself in time. And you should wait until that emotion is gone so you calmly respond to what you are facing. In youth sports, there is often a 24-hour rule after a game. This means if you are upset with your child’s playing time, etc., you must wait 24 hours before talking to the coach. If you still are angry after that time has passed, then it is a real emotion and it’s okay to begin the conversation. However, in many cases, the emotion dies down before 24 hours, and you are glad you did not react on adrenaline. Time has a way of making us think more clearly in what we say and write. Every time I have reacted in the moment, I later kick myself for getting baited (when I knew better) and should have waited.

How about when we are lonely? Maybe you have not had a lot of time around people in recent weeks, or are just bored in life. When you have a lonely mindset, it is not a good time to make decisions on important matters because you are out of balance and need to be centered. It is easy to feel everyone else is getting something that you are not, or feel they are in a better place than you are. Such thoughts creep into our heads when we are lonely. Social media such as Facebook can seem like the ultimate “highlight reel” of others’ lives and can lead to us feeling even more alone (Note to reader: such highlights are not “everyday life,” but can sure seem that way).

What about when we get tired? After all, in our rapidly moving world, we ALL get tired at some point.

This is a time you feel great stress and need to rest. You know... chill out. So, do not communicate something you will later regret because you’re worn out. It will come across the wrong way. Instead, get some rest and approach everything with a fresh perspective. This is why we tell people to get a good night’s sleep and things will look better in the morning.

So, there you go. You have my take on the SHALT rule and how it helps us better understand our emotions and when we should/should not communicate. What about you? What “SHALT” you no longer do when you are not in the right frame of mind? Let’s also focus on what we SHALT do to make a positive difference in our community each day, week, and month. How can we bring people together? How can we help people find common ground? How can we listen more and talk less? The Our Town community always seeks to UNITE and grow together.

Finally, I thank you for your kind feedback on my column each month. I shalt continually work hard to make it better. Until next time, I wish you a great October. And, as always, thank you for continuing with me... on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

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PAGE 7

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Making a Difference: S.O.S. Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen

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Tom and Diane Wargo have a great love for pets, which is why they founded both a pet supply store and a pet soup kitchen. They have been serving the pet owners and pets of Gwinnett County for twenty years.

Daffy’s New and Used Pet Supplies (Daffy’s) and S.O.S. Daffy’s Pet Soup Kitchen (S.O.S.) are located at 134 S. Clayton Street in Lawrenceville. Daffy’s has a large selection of pet supplies that includes dog and cat food, animal crates, leashes, flea and tick prevention, rabbit supplies, and much more. S.O.S. allows families and their pets to stay together during hard times.

Many families have to give up their pets when they experience a job loss or economic crisis. Some Gwinnett citizens who are particularly fond of their pets go without food to make sure their pets get proper nourishment. Daffy’s and S.O.S. make it a little easier for families to provide for everyone, so no one, whether human or animal, has to go without food.

In order to receive free food from S.O.S., families must qualify. To apply, pet owners may come to the pet food bank on Saturdays or apply online. The S.O.S. pet food bank is located in the lower parking lot behind Daffy’s. All pets need to be spayed or neutered and have their rabies shots up to date, though there is a 45-day grace period.

S.O.S. provides nearly a million pounds of food throughout the state. There are no residency requirements. Anyone with a pet is welcome to apply for assistance. S.O.S. has never run out of food, and they have set the model for the approximately 200 pet soup kitchens across the nation.

But that is not all the Wargos are doing. They are expanding their services as more businesses and service providers continue to partner with them. One major development worth noting is the new pet boutique they are opening not far from their current location. The new store will have a kit and cat room.

Many studies show that playing with cats provides relaxation and coping abilities for those with autism, PTSD, or dementia, and other issues. Playing with the kittens will also help the animals get socialized before being adopted.

S.O.S. has a regular need of committed volunteers for sorting food or unloading it, along with other tasks. There is something for everyone of every capability. To volunteer, apply online. Their volunteer coordinator, Briana, will be in touch to schedule an interview.

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Home of Hope: Offers Lasting Hope to Homeless Mothers and Their Children

G E NE RAT E

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By Heidi Campbell Homelessness is a sad reality for too many families in the Gwinnett County area, and there are not nearly enough programs to help all the people impacted by rough times. According to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Gwinnett County has the 3rd highest total homeless population in the state of Georgia. The Gwinnett County Public Schools reported that in May of 2016, there were over 1,900 homeless students enrolled in their school system. One program, Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, works to help young, homeless mothers in the Gwinnett area. “We transition homelessness into hope,” explains Executive Director Maureen Kornowa, “and turn hope into a home. This is a program that implements lasting change.”

The Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter is a transitional living program for homeless children and their moms between the ages of 18-25 years of age, as well as young women who have aged out of the foster care system. By providing free room and board, the program is designed to keep the family unit together and to end the cycle of homelessness two generations at a time. Since June of 2014, Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter has transitioned thirty-seven families out of homelessness by recognizing that just because a mother is homeless doesn’t mean she doesn’t love her children. The program provides love and life skills to help mothers live on their own. “We tell them when they come to live here that their past doesn’t define their future,” says Kornowa. “We let them know that they can do anything and be anything, and we are going to help them get there.”

The prospective families are interviewed carefully to ensure they are a fit for the program. The interview team looks for a spark of desire – someone who is willing to do hard work and be disciplined in working the program.

Kornowa explains that the plan is one of tough love, but it is also full of love.

Continued on page 14

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DS Murphy & Associates, Real Estate Appraisers & Consultants, has spent the last two decades building effective working relationships with real estate agents by providing industry-leading customer service and relevant continuing education for realtors. It was a natural extension of their real estate appraisal and consulting services when they founded DS Murphy Inspections (DSMI) in 2017.

There are many inspection companies to choose from, but DSMI was founded by individuals with a long history in real estate and construction. Scott Murphy, the company’s CEO, is also Chairman of the Georgia Real Estate Appraisers Board. Executive Vice President Steve King and his son Ryan bring with them four generations of construction, real estate sales and brokerage, appraising, and inspection experience.

When you work with DSMI, you get people who care about helping real estate agents keep the sale once it enters into contract. In a recent continuing education class for real estate agents, Steve King pointed out that the number one reason contracts on houses are canceled is that the inspection report scares the buyer away. The solution, he says, is a realtor-centric report that is easy to understand and that doesn’t use alarming language, but still informs and educates the buyer about his or her new home.

Most houses are going to have problems. There is no need for a buyer to think a contractor is needed for every minor problem. The realtor-centric inspection report DSMI provides makes it easy for all parties involved to have a clear but simple understanding of a home’s issues. Rest assured, however, that if a repair is major enough to require a contractor, DSMI’s report will make that known.

In addition to purchase inspections (typically ordered by the buyer), DSMI provides an Inspection Consultation, a thorough inspection conducted in the presence of the homeowner and the realtor that gives them an idea of what to expect to see in a buyer’s inspection. Sellers are able to find out about their home’s problem areas before they list it, so that they are not suddenly caught off guard by the buyer’s inspection. It also gives the seller a little extra time to get the most major repairs done, instead of feeling rushed to get them done in order to meet closing deadlines.

King shares what information to look for in a home inspector. Look for one who is certified. Home inspectors are not required to be licensed in the state of Georgia, so certification by the American Society of Home Inspectors or the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors is very important.

DSMI is a member of both, and all of its inspectors are certified with one or both agencies. Ask what the turnaround time on the report is. According to King, it should take 24 hours or less to get your report, and the report should include a summary for ease of understanding. Finally, ask whether the inspector provides more than just the basic home inspection. DSMI also provides mold, pool and spa, dock, chimney, and radon inspections, but many inspectors do not provide these services.

According to King, the goal of a home inspection really should be to “help educate the buyer, not beat up the house.”

More information at dsmurphyinspections.com

To become an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Cara Sullivan & Family

By Daidra Annis If you live, work, or play in the Parkview community, you have probably heard of, worked with, or personally know the Sullivan family. Cara and Matthew Sullivan find community service to be very rewarding, and for them, it’s simply a part of life. Cara says, “Communities are better when people are involved,” and she is always looking for anything she can do to raise awareness for the non-profit programs that she supports. One of the best ways she does that is when searching for and working with volunteers. She doesn’t just put people to work; instead she explores what people like to do and in what areas they are able to serve. In doing so, she unlocks the passion that allows everyone to do their very best work for the organization. You don’t have to serve on a board, or chair a committee to make a difference. Cara firmly believes that anything you can do will make your community stronger. She certainly puts that belief into practice every day, and the Parkview community is better today because of it.

When the Sullivans moved to the Parkview area from Lawrenceville seventeen years ago, Matthew and Cara didn’t take long to put down roots in their new hometown of Lilburn. After their second son was born, Cara left her teaching job, but continued to serve as a volunteer at the schools her sons attended.

Cara and Matthew have continued to serve their community in many capacities throughout the years: first as leaders for Cub Scout Pack 564 and Boy Scout Troop 580. Cara works with the middle school youth at St. John Neuman Catholic Church. In addition, Matthew and Cara have always supported the athletic pursuits of sons, Alex and Sean. Both boys ran track and cross country at Parkview, and are now attending the University of Georgia.

For the past twelve years, Cara has served with the Gwinnett Parks Foundation, whose purpose is to raise awareness for and seek volunteers to serve our local parks. The Foundation also serves as a facilitator for fundraising monies generated by tournaments and various events hosted at the parks. The Foundation partners with business leaders and community members twice per year to keep our parks clean and tidy for residents to enjoy. “Parknership” Days take place each year in March and October, with the fall event always being a joint effort with the Gwinnett Days of Service. This month’s Parknership Day will take place on October 21st at DeShong Park in Stone Mountain.

The Georgia Chapter of the Scleroderma Foundation is another place where Cara has found she can make a difference. After her mother-in-law was diagnosed with this autoimmune disease, Cara had to find a way to help. Patient Support Seminars are hosted by the chapter to help educate and support patients Continued on page 12

JobChange?

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Cara Sullivan Spotlight Continued from page 11

Get Connected with Snellville Commerce Club

and families. The annual Golf Tournament at Reunion Country Club and the 5K race (affectionately called Hiking and Hotcakes) are two events that help raise both awareness and much needed funds to combat Scleroderma. With $150K raised in five years through the Hiking and Hotcakes event, the Georgia Chapter is certainly making a difference in the lives of those affected.

The Parkview Cluster Foundation (PCF) is beginning its fourth year of service, and Cara serves on the executive board as the vice president, as well as, serving on the Grant Selection Committee. The PCF is designed to support and enrich academic programs in the classroom, and provides much needed funds for teachers to offer an experience that surpasses their students’ imagination. Since 2014, the Foundation has awarded over $37,000 in grants to the various schools within the cluster.

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President Theodore Roosevelt once said, “This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in.” If anyone knows this to be true, it’s the civic leaders and business owners of the community.

In Snellville, these two groups have found a way to connect – through the Snellville Commerce Club.

Since the Commerce Club’s conception in 1984, local entrepreneurs and other members of the community have been forging relationships pivotal for the growth and development of the city. But by 2011, the city of Snellville had experienced so much growth that a certain community spirit was missing. Thus, the Snellville Tourism and Trade organization (STAT) was created, which in turn, opened the door for Commerce Club members to really get involved with city programs and events in ways they hadn’t before.

Barbara Bender, a member of the club since the early 2000s, describes it as simply, “good community involvement.” Each month, members meet for an hour over lunch. To an outsider, this may look like a typical luncheon of mingling city officials. However, what’s happening at the table is the cultivation of relationships that only strengthen the roots of a growing, evolving city.

As Bender puts it, “It’s a chance to talk one-on-one with other business owners and gives you a support network. You can meet fellow community members and get a pulse of what’s happening in the city.”

It’s also the reason she ran for city council in 2005 and now serves the community as Mayor Pro Tem. “I decided to run in ‘05 through encouragement from other club members,” she says. And she’s been dedicated to serving the community in big ways ever since.

True to the Commerce Club’s core, each month they bring in guest speakers from every corner of the city. From Chief of Police Roy Whitehead to local nonprofit spokespersons, and from city judges to professors at Gwinnett Tech, club members get plugged in to the community.

Commerce Club members also reach out to the city in philanthropic ways. Along with donations to local nonprofits, Toys for Tots, and even deployed military, the club offers scholarships each year to deserving Brookwood and South Gwinnett High School seniors who are involved in DECA or FBLA. In that way, they honor the city’s emerging leaders who exhibit community involvement, work experience, and Continued on page 14

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Battle of Five Forks: Family Night of Fun for a Great Cause

By Amy Ney “Sometimes I felt as though I was talking to the wall” is a sentiment commonly shared by parents of teenagers, and with NG3 Parkview’s board member, Robert Lynch, it was the same. “I knew if someone could reach the players and their friends, someone they respected and who respected them, the words and advice would go further. Really, NG3 was an answer to our heart’s plea,” said Lynch.

NG3 is a nonprofit organization set up to teach character in student athletes. Parkview Director Javier Munoz came to Parkview three years ago to speak truth and “do life” with players. “I’m on the field during practice. I am at games. We meet before school to discuss things like how to respect self and others, how truth is an integral part of Team. We do service projects because stepping outside self to serve others is a terrific way to make not only our community better, but also ourselves.” Munoz takes it a step further for interested students. “We meet in our home. We eat together—players love to eat—and we can have more in depth conversations and they can have healthy interactions with my wife and kids; this is a safe environment that reinforces what they see at home. For others, this may be one of the few examples they see of healthy relationships and home.” Parkview Athletic Director Nick Gast agrees. “NG3 is investing in student-athletes and we see the positive influence.”

NG3’s support comes from community. Community members contribute financially, and volunteers come alongside Munoz to coach, teach, and feed players. Gast said he’s seen how NG3 has grown at Parkview. “It has been exciting to see how much it’s grown. Participation seems to grow weekly.” Lynch and his wife, Wendy, began serving on NG3 Parkview’s board early on. “We have two children, neither of whom is at Parkview right now. But we believe in what Coach Munoz is doing. We whole-heartedly believe it makes our kids’ friends, our teams, our school, and our community better. That why we support it. We just need more help.”

Again this year, Parkview and Brookwood chapters of NG3 will face off on October 29th to compete for the Battle of Five Forks Pajama Run. Lynch explained, “We want this to be a community event where the whole family can come, dressed in family-appropriate pajamas. This year they can even be Halloween themed.” The race registration can be purchased online. Supporters of NG3 Parkview can register at ng3. org/parkview, and Brookwood supporters should register at ng3.org/brookwood . Or, runners can sign up at the event. Registration opens at 6:00 p.m. Munoz said he would be encouraging his athletes, friends, and neighbors to be there. “Brookwood will show up. The football coach, Jones, will challenge (Parkview’s coach) Godfrey. It’ll be loads of fun. A DJ, a costume contest, face painting, and other fun activities will make it a great community event.”

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Home of Hope Continued from page 9 She says that while they “hold their feet to the fire,” the plan really works. “One young woman came in and wanted to be a nurse,” recalls Kornowa. “She came in as a 21-year-old with three children. When she left here, she had graduated from a CNA program and was working in an assisted living community and transferred to stable housing.”

Once a family moves into the Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, a stay typically lasting anywhere from three to twelve months, they are quickly set up with an apartment in one of the houses.

Within 72 hours, the children are enrolled in school or daycare, and the mom is set up with a life plan.

Within the first thirty days, the mothers are required to secure employment, and they must save 30-50% of each paycheck, which represents their eventual rent. Case managers help the mothers with school related issues, and moms are required to attend classes on weeknights covering topics like resume building, HIV awareness, and Finance 101. While moms are learning life skills, their children attend Kids Club, where they enjoy supervised activities with volunteers from the community.

The program requires $987,000 to keep its doors open each year, which makes raising money a continuing effort. In March, they had one of their annual fundraisers, the Sip and Swine BBQ festival, which is a Kansas City BBQ Society cookoff at Coolray Field. This event raised more than $50,000.00 for the

charity. The president of the board of directors, Mr. Brand Morgan, hosts an annual wine auction to raise funds, and, in the fall each year, they host the “Power of One” luncheon to honor someone who gives to the community. “I like to recognize good people from other non-profits,” shares Kornowa. “It costs a candle nothing to light another candle.”

The Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter is always in need of monetary donations, and Kornowa hopes to raise enough money this year to begin filling an additional twelve rooms that were recently renovated. In addition to monetary donations, they also welcome summer camp scholarships for their children, food drives, household supplies, “bed in a bag” sets, and volunteers to help with Kids Club and weekend meal donations.

The week before they opened the new program on the campus of Home of Hope at Gwinnett Children’s Shelter, Kornowa found a nest outside the front door. This nest, which actually sits on a table in her office, has become the logo that appears on brochures and signs. “We use the nest,” she explains, “because although masterfully built, nests are a transitional place to live. They are where fledglings learn how to fly before they leave the nest. It is a perfect metaphor for what we do here.”

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Character Counts: Up Close with NG3 Parkview

By NG3 Director Javier Munoz Christian Malloy is a senior at Parkview High and has been involved with NG3 for the past two years. He is a running back and corner back for the football team, and runs track in the spring. He is an excellent student and a leader to his teammates and community.

Javier Munoz (JM): What does NG3 mean to you?

Christian Malloy (CM): NG3 is a place of fellowship to me. It’s a place we can talk about anything so we can better ourselves, and a place where we learn to have great character and grow into a man. Coach Munoz teaches us how to be a great person, son, husband in the future, and a servant of God. NG3 has been big in my development and has really made me grow as a person.

JM: What is the most memorable moment you have had with NG3?

CM: The most memorable moments of NG3 have been the multiple community service jobs we’ve done. We have painted houses, cleaned out the house of a hoarder, and helped open a new church. You always get a great feeling in your heart after you do something like that. Usually, it’s your first time doing this type of work, but you get to work with people and have a great time and know you are only helping them because you care, and out of the goodness of your heart.

JM: What would you tell someone who has never heard of or experienced NG3?

CM: If I were to tell someone about NG3, I would tell them it is a commitment and one that is an easy choice to make. It’s truly a great experience you can have with your friends and your NG3 leader. You will create a bond like no other. NG3 will bring together great people who have a common goal, “Do what you say, serve others, and bring change.” This mission statement is what we are based on, and through our time together we learn to become stronger Christians and live our life serving the Lord.

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Snellville Commerce Club Continued from page 12 academic achievement.

Nothing would be possible without the woman behind the scenes, Kelly McAloon, Executive Director of STAT and official emcee for Snellville Commerce Club. Bender admits, “Kelly’s a whirlwind – she just never stops! She wants every event to be bigger and better than before.” Things like the Snellville Christmas tree lighting, The Taste of Snellville, and even the Snellville Farmers’ Market have exploded under her leadership. And she’s able to bring local business owners and community members together to make them all feel part of this exciting growth.

The Commerce Club’s biggest challenge? Driving membership. A city’s growth is contingent on its leaders. Luckily, in the last six months, the club has welcomed a new crop of members. “We’re always looking for that next generation of leadership to come along,” says Bender.

It is clear Snellville still values that small-town feel, and civic leaders like Bender and McAloon are the driving forces behind fostering the kind of community involvement necessary for the future. The Commerce Club is just one essential component to that vision.

The good news is that membership is open to anyone. Perhaps you would like to be engaged in the community and make good things happen. Snellville’s Commerce Club is waiting for you to get connected.

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The Raymond Family: Catalysts for Change in Downtown Lilburn

By Joanna Shackelford Lately, residents winding through the neighborhood streets of downtown Lilburn can hear the steady drum of hammers and the active buzz of workmen. The changing face of Old Town Lilburn is slowly trickling into the residential realm as young families discover an affordable and quaint alternative to the mainstream suburban-planned communities of Gwinnett.

The Raymonds are one such couple. In search of the same small-town feel they experienced from living in Tifton, Mark and Alex settled on downtown Lilburn. The decision was easy.

Some of their friends had already set down their roots just down the street. Talk of exciting new developments on Main Street conjured visions of downtown Norcross. The local public schools maintain a good reputation, and the walkability to Lilburn Park and the Greenway Trail all helped to seal the deal.

“We liked the idea of being in a walkable community – walk to friends’ homes, the park, restaurants – it feels more like a small town here,” says Alex.

Securing a home was only the beginning, though. With the help of their future neighbors and longtime friends, they found a house they could eventually call home. But not without some major renovations and a huge dose of patience.

The Raymonds took their newly purchased 1963 brick ranch of 1,050 square feet with a sinking subfloor and years of water damage, and ripped it down to the studs to begin the process of making it their own. By closing in the carport and restructuring the overall layout, they added major square footage, a new master bedroom and bath, and an open concept kitchen, dining, and living area.

“We love the kitchen the most,” admits Alex. “Everybody congregates in here. We love that it’s so open.”

In keeping with their eagerness to support local businesses, the Raymonds chose RFS Cabinets, a local downtown Lilburn company, to design and install their entire kitchen. The space is impressive. The white shaker cabinets, farmhouse sink, and enlarged island that overlooks an airy family room are all reminiscent of an episode on HGTV’s Fixer-Upper. A huge butcher block island countertop adds warmth and community to the space.

The front of the house also received a major facelift. By closing in the carport, the main entrance was transformed into an inviting gable front porch at the end of a flagstone footpath. Finally, after painting Continued on page 22

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On Tuesday, September 5th, Matt Moon was named, for the second time in the last ten years, Parkview High School’s Teacher of the Year.

Moon, who teaches Algebra II, is dedicated to the school and his community. He not only teaches math, but he also finds time to serve as the math Department Chair, is the head coach of the JV Softball team, is the organizer for the annual Senior Picnic, and is the co-textbook coordinator for the school.

Moon is married to Brittnee, also a Gwinnett County Public Schools employee, and the couple has a dog named Odie. Moon grew up in Dacula, and graduated from Dacula High School in 1998 before attending University of Georgia (UGA), where he majored in Math Education. When it was time for student teaching, he was assigned to Collins Hill High school, but a last minute change of plans landed him at Parkview High School, where he has been since he graduated from UGA in 2004. He was thrilled to begin his job as a full-time teacher, after spending nine years working at Kroger. “I started at Kroger when I was sixteen, and by the time I was eighteen I was the front end manager,” recalls Moon. “I even worked there throughout my student teaching experience. I enjoyed my Kroger experience, especially when I became a trainer and helped open the fuel centers; but I was really ready to use my degree!”

Ever since third grade, Moon knew he wanted to teach. He recalls, “I had a third grade teacher who was absolutely charismatic. I knew then that I wanted to teach, although I thought I might be a history teacher. That changed in high school when I had a fantastic calculus teacher who truly developed my passion for math. I love teaching Algebra II because it takes all the foundation from Algebra I and actually applies it and becomes more hands-on!”

Anyone who enters Moon’s classroom instantly sees that he is not only a serious bulldog fan, but he is also a creative, innovative educator. His room is decorated with ceiling tiles that represent math history lessons, which help kids better understand why they need to learn math. He also has numerous student construction projects around his room, and many of those have also been put on display in Parkview’s media center. “The replica of the Parkview baseball stadium was amazing,” says Moon. “That student did everything to scale. These hands-on activities really help kids make connections.”

The close-knit community is Moon’s favorite part of teaching at Parkview. He has enjoyed opportunities to spend time with students and teachers off campus by chaperoning numerous trips and events. “I’ve totally enjoyed traveling with Mr. Murphy to Europe,” says Moon. “And my trips to Paris Island, Alaska, and California with the ROTC cadets have been amazing. I love getting to watch these kids have these Continued on page 22

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Learning Lessons: How to Read Faster

By Carol Wood The ability to understand what is read is one of the most important skills for a student to have to be successful in school. Since so much of what students learn is done through reading textbooks, outside reading, notes, or written work, it is essential for them to perfect this skill. There are several simple strategies that middle and high school students can be taught, then subsequently drilled and practiced, to improve their rate of reading, along with their comprehension. These strategies – appropriate for students whose levels of reading abilities are on or above their grade level in school – are previewing, skimming, and clustering.

When the reading assignment is long and heavy and a student needs to have a general idea of the content, previewing is helpful. Students can obtain as much as half of the comprehension in less reading time. To preview, read the entire first two paragraphs of the content. Then read only the first sentence of the next successive paragraphs, followed by entirely reading the last two paragraphs.

Previewing gives a quick overall view of long unfamiliar material.

For short and light reading, skimming is effective in obtaining a review of the material that is to be read.

To skim, pretend your eyes are like magnets being drawn to only the key words in each line of text. Move your eyes fast across each line on each page. Skimming will give a good idea of the content in about half the words read and in less than half the time it would take to read each word of the passage. Remember, however, that previewing and skimming will only give a general idea about the content and only about 50% comprehension.

The last strategy is clustering, which can help students increase their speed and comprehension. Most of us learned to read by looking at one word at a time, which is ideal when words have a special meaning or for reading a contract. However, word by word reading is not ideal for reading faster. Clustering trains students to look at a group of words at once. To cluster, train your eyes to see all of the words in clusters of up to 3 or 4 words at a glance, which is not something your eyes will do naturally. You must practice consistently to improve this technique. Pick something light to read and do so as fast as you can, concentrating on seeing 3 to 4 words at once, rather than one word at a time. Then, reread the piece at a normal rate, word by word, to determine what information was missed the first time. Try a second passage and read by clustering the first time and then rereading again at a normal rate, word by word, to see what was missed. Practice doing this about 15 minutes each day with different reading passages and this technique will improve. Not only will a student’s rate of reading increase, but so will his or her comprehension.

With sufficient practice of previewing, skimming and clustering, students will be able to handle more reading at school in less time, and perhaps, they may even begin to enjoy reading more!

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By Terie Hansen We love our pets and we love technology. So, it’s a natural leap to pair the two together.

Automated feeders, waterers, and many more new products are flooding the market these days, making our pet’s lives more interesting and our lives easier and more fun. Here are just a few: Petcube: Watch, listen, and talk to your pet remotely. Imagine being able to check in and interact with your pets while you are away at work. Petcube has versions that also dispense treats as well as have a built-in laser pointer so you can play with your pet anytime from anywhere!

GoPro Fetch: Capture the world from your pet’s point of view. It’s a GoPro mounted on a harness that your pet wears, allowing you to see what your pet has been up to all day! It’s washable and water-friendly, so feel free to take it to the beach or pool to get some awesome water shots.

TabCat: This GPS tracker helps you follow audio and visual cues to find your cat, or it can train your pet to come home on demand, giving indoor/outdoor cat owners peace of mind. iFetch: This fun, interactive toy allows your dog to play fetch on demand. Fido drops a tennis ball into the chute and the iFetch shoots it out 10-30 feet. It’s available for large and small dogs. For added fun, the iFetch Frenzy will keep your dog guessing. Sparky drops the ball into the top and the ball randomly bursts out of one of the three chutes at the bottom.

PetChatz: A bit like the Petcube, but with additional features that allow you to not only see your pet, but Fluffy can see you, too! A special ringtone signals your pet that you are calling. It can dispense treats and record videos of your furry family member.

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Money Matters: Don’t Bank Your Retirement on Your Business

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Investing in your own business makes sense; many businesses achieve significant growth each year. However, when you consider that many small businesses fold every year, it becomes clear that banking your retirement solely on the success of your business might not be the best idea.

There is no guarantee that your business will continue to grow or even maintain its current value. If your business is worth less than you are counting on at the time you retire, you could be forced to continue working or sell it for less than what you were expecting.

Diversification helps manage risk Business owners often assume that their businesses will be their main source of retirement funds, but that strategy could be riskier than you think. It’s generally not wise to put all your eggs in one basket. Broadly diversifying your assets may help protect against risk.

Diversification involves dividing your assets among many types of investments. Putting all your money into a single investment is risky because you could lose everything if the investment performs poorly — even if that investment is your own business. Of course, diversification is a method used to help manage investment risk; it does not guarantee a profit or protect against the risk of investment loss.

Consider what would happen if you were planning to rely solely on the sale of your business to fund your retirement, only to have the U.S. economy fall into a recession about the time you planned to retire.

If a recession occurred when you planned to retire, it could affect the sale of your business or the income it generates for you.

Likewise, there is no assurance that a larger competitor won’t overtake your market, or that demand for your business’s goods and services won’t weaken because of new technology, rising energy prices, consumer trends, or other variables over which you have no control.

Your business is almost certain to provide some of the money you need to retire. By building a portfolio outside of your business, you are helping to insulate your retirement from the risks and market conditions that can affect your business.

Chris Buckley is a Financial Advisor at Waddell & Reed, Inc. More info can be obtained via phone 404434-5034 or email ccbuckley@wradvisors.com

"I love doing what I do. It's a certain type of reward you get when you know that you have an impact on students—we ALL have an impact and play a vital role. It's fun seeing the little ones get in in the morning. You're the first person and last person from GCPS they see each day. You're not just a driver, you're an encourager and counselor.

We’re singing a new tune… and we hope you’ll join us. The Little Gym has teamed up with Kindermusik to create new,

Training is in-depth. They walk you through it and if you have questions, they'll go back and go over anything again. Trainers are patient and stay with you throughout. They give you the tools you need to be a successful driver."

Deborah Shelton Team Leader, Duluth

Interested?

Call 678-225-7670

Apply to posting #48340 at GCPSjobs.org

Children newborn through 4 years can now sing, dance, and learn through Kindermusik music and movement classes at The Little Gym! Classes provide a sensory rich environment, complete with music, movement, and fun to help your child learn to march to the beat of their own drum!

Try a class for FREE! The Shoppes at Webb Gin www.thelittlegym.com/snellvillega 770-982-0901

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To become an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

Getting to Know: Diamond in the Rough

By Michelle Watson Diamond in the Rough, Inc. (DITR) is an organization that strives to empower girls of all ages and from all walks of life.

Nicole Steele has been working with young people for over twentyfive years, volunteering with programs including Junior Achievement and the Boys & Girls Club. In 2004, Steele founded DITR to meet the changing needs of girls. Since its inception, the organization has served nearly 5,000 youth and families, and has operated with a waiting list for the past eleven years.

DITR has something for girls ages 4 -18. As Steele puts it, “All girls are at-risk.” She tells how it is not any one thing that puts a girl at risk. It isn’t just her skin color or ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or her neighborhood. With the many challenges and pressures facing young girls today – from technology, social media, and peer pressure – all our youth are at risk. As a result, many girls may lack confidence or doubt their abilities.

Steele intends to dispel the misconception that the need for mentoring is only in the inner city. She says suburban places need mentoring and services. So, when God told her to stay and minister in Gwinnett County, she obeyed.

Over the past twenty-five years, Steele has seen a shift in society that affects both girls and boys. With the growth of social media and technology, there is an extreme amount of pressure on today’s youth. There is an assault on their self-esteem. DITR works to build up girls’ confidence and teach them they are not the sum of their body parts, and they are not to be objectified. Steele says the DITR programs help girls find their voice and shine.

The main focus of DITR is group mentoring. Groups are divided by age and grade. The program runs through the school year from September to May, with events held at Cannon Church in Snellville.

Three or four mentors are assigned to every group of twelve to thirteen girls, giving the girls a chance to learn from several different role models and each other. It also lessens the pressure on mentors who may otherwise feel they have to bond with each child.

Other DITR programs include CROWNS College and Career Coaching Program and CORE Leadership Program. These help build leadership skills and provide exposure to opportunities to serve.

DITR does not focus on the girls and forget about the rest of the family. They want to provide opportunities for the girls to bond with their families and create memories. They offer FREE parent workshops monthly, and have a Diamond Dads program to support dads, as well as a single parent component called Solitaires that reaches out to both single moms and single dads. DITR hosts father/daughter dances and mother/daughter retreats and teas, as well as other enrichment activities for the family.

Steele sums up the mission of DITR in one statement, saying as a community, we can “invest now or pay later.” She says our society is too often reactive, always bent on fixing things and pouring in resources on the back end; but prevention is key to truly helping girls build character and keeping them from being victims.

DITR’s success can be contributed to a modest staff and over seventy-five volunteers. Steele says everyone has a role to play. Not everyone can commit to mentoring every Saturday, but business professionals and other community leaders can invite DITR representatives out to speak or share the organization’s vision and join in partnership.

Steele says the significance of DITR’s name is that no two diamonds are the same. They come in different shapes and colors. “They are a mirror of what we are in God’s eyes,” says Steele. “We are all beautiful, brilliant, and full of potential. Once girls know who and Whose they are, it’s a game changer, and the sooner that light goes off, the better.”

More information at www.ditr.org.

Our Town

DeKalb Psychiatric Associates 2711 Irvin Way, Suite 211 v Decatur, GA 30030

Neil A. Kahn MD v Adult and Geriatric Psychiatry Brittany Burchfield PhD v Adult and Child Psychologist

Accepting new patients Medicare and most major insurance plans accepted Call 404.501.0001 for more information and to schedule appointments

To become an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 21

Atlanta’s Premier J U N K R E M O VA L S E R V I C E Commercial & Residential Moving & Deliveries Available Junk Removal: Household Items, Appliances, Furniture, Fencing, Trees, Yard Waste & Debris

Teacher of the Year Continued from page 17 experiences they will likely never get to do again!”

Moon enjoys the opportunity to impact a student. He recalls one student from years ago who came to his class as a freshman with no fundamental math background. He was able to work with this hardworking student, in class and after school, to get through Algebra I. Moon realized that the student’s biggest hang up was that he wasn’t a good test-taker. “He would freeze up with anxiety when the test was put in front of him,” explains Moon. “So, for the rest of Algebra I, we got rid of all paper and pencil tests for him. He just had too much anxiety, and needed to learn some coping techniques. In the meantime, he would come in after school, and I’d give him each problem, and he’d work them on my whiteboard. By the time I had him as an Algebra II student, he had learned to cope with his anxiety and could take tests again! Individualizing my assessments made all the difference, and there is nothing better than the ‘ah-hah’ moments when they really catch on! Seeing this kind of growth is just phenomenal!”

Downtown Lilburn Continued from page 16

Clean Outs: Free Attics, Garages, Estimates Basements, Storage Units, Offices, Construction Sites

678-973-9594 • Norcross, GA WeHaulStuff.com

the 1960’s brick to a desirable gray, the home renovation was complete. The Raymonds had succeeded in converting an old house into a modernized ranch fit for a growing family – all for a fraction of the price it would cost anywhere inside the perimeter with similar neighborhood amenities.

The Raymonds are just one of about eight young families who have moved to the Old Town Lilburn area in the last three years, embarking on major renovations. They all share a similar vision for their neighborhood and downtown Lilburn. “We want to support local spots and hope there’s more to come,” says Alex.

Already, she and Mark enjoy walks to the park two to three times a week. Alex often carts the kids to programs at the new Lilburn library. For special events like Food Truck Tuesdays, Concerts in the Park, and Fourth of July Fireworks, they pack up the stroller and amble over while everyone else battles for parking spots.

The allure is there. Now it’s time for Main Street to give them what they want. More.

“A coffee shop, pizza place, taco joint – we’re not asking for a lot,” says Mark. Casual, affordable restaurant options would bring more people to the area. But as any city planner knows, that kind of change takes time. City council members talk of upcoming possibilities for a Main Street makeover. Residents, new and old, are hopeful as they see the potential Old Town Lilburn has.

“Whatever happens, I hope they keep the character of Old Town,” says Alex. Her advice to city planners? “Be intentional about the way you develop.”

The Raymonds, along with their friends and neighbors, represent a catalyst for change in downtown Lilburn and its surrounding neighborhoods. They also all share the same hope that their story will become one of many so that Old Town Lilburn can thrive once again.

October Events in Snellville on the Towne Green!

Last FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY of the season!

Oct. 6 • 4-8 PM Cousins Maine Lobster Truck Exotic-Que • Gyro Chef Mediterranean Hole in the Wall • Tex’s Tacos Tracy’s Tasties • Philly Conection The Patty Wagon Not So Famous Cookie Truck • Kona Ice

FUN AND GAMES WITH DJ LEE FROM 4-8 P.M.

PAGE 22

Fall Festival

Oct. 21 • 12-6 PM COME JOIN ALL THE FAMILY FUN!

ALL DAY ACTIVITY PASS ONLY $10 (Includes: Inflatables, Bungee Jump, Train Ride, Hay Rides and Mini Golf ) • 12 p.m. - Mountain Top Polka Band • 2:30 p.m. - Costume Contest (Register by 1:30 p.m.)

• 3:20 p.m. - Dog Costume Contest (Register by 2:30 p.m.)

• 4 p.m. - Trunk or Treat (First Baptist Church in Front Parking Lot) • 4 p.m. - Banks and Shane (Towne Green Stage) • Snellville Senior Center Craft Show in Conjunction with Fall Fest

www.SnellvilleEvents.com

To become an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

Our Town

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

t s e f r e b o t Ok 2017 6655 James B Rivers Dr. Stone Mountain, GA 30083

(770) 498-0329

Hours Of Operation: Tuesday - Friday 9am-10pm Saturday 8am-11pm Sunday 10am-9pm Closed Monday

German Dancers Live German Music Games and Prizes

Saturday Oct. 7 Saturday Oct. 14

G e rmanRestau rant.com

Don’t let pain keep you from doing what you love!

Visit your local BenchMark Physical Therapy.

Our licensed physical therapists are musculoskeletal experts who are trained to identify the source of your pain or injury and recommend treatment to get you feeling better and moving better, faster.

Let our team focus on your full recovery so you can focus on what matters to you.

Call your local BenchMark today to set up an evaluation.

BUFORD I-85 • 2815 Buford Dr, Ste 102 • Buford, GA 30519 • (770) 271-4413 GRAYSON • 2065 Grayson Hwy, Ste B • Grayson, GA 30017 • (678) 376-0213 LAWRENCEVILLE • 455 Philip Blvd, Ste 160 • Lawrenceville, GA 30046 • (678) 985-0238 LILBURN • 1227 Rockbridge Rd, Ste 402 • Stone Mountain, GA 30087 • (770) 925-9210 SNELLVILLE • 2050 Scenic Hwy N, Ste A • Snellville, GA 30078 • (678) 344-7197 **COMING SOON** SNELLVILLE — CENTERVILLE HWY 124 3641 Centerville Highway, Ste 400 • Snellville, GA 30039

Our Town

To become an Our Town advertising partner visit OurTownGwinnett.com or call 678-825-2049

PAGE 23

A T H E N S

O R T H O P E D I C

C L I N I C

TREAT. RECOVER. EXCEL. AthensOrthopedicClinic.com | (706) 549-1663 Athens . Covington . Greensboro . Jefferson . Loganville Madison . Monroe . Royston . Snellville