OCTOBER 2021: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

OCTOBER 2021 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville Hamilton Mill

Up Close with Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville, see story on page 5.

12 13 15 21

One on One: Tenijah Hamilton, SGHS Class of 2010 Silver Sneakers Program: Exercising at the Wellness Studio Community Business Spotlight: Up Close with Cutting Edge Painting From Germany to Grayson Computers: Meet Frank Rakoczy

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On the Cover: A Barking Fun Time at Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville

By Kristen Eleveld

Every dog owner wants to make sure his or her dog is safe and happy every day, and for local pups, there is no better place to make this happen than at Camp Bow Wow in Lawrenceville.

For the last six years, Camp Bow Wow has given local dog owners the opportunity to leave their pooches in the best hands as they go to work or school. In fact, one can even argue that the dogs are getting the best deal out of this, because Camp Bow Wow does not skimp on the services they offer their furry friends.

The latest such service in a long line of others is the camp’s enrichment program, which is designed to offer dogs – referred to onsite as “campers” – one-on-one time with a counselor.

They might head to the ball pit to play catch for a while, enjoy blowing some bubbles together, or even snuggle up with a counselor to listen to a story. This, of course, is on top of the wide range of services Camp Bow Wow already offers, including the ability for dog owners to check in on their pups during the day with a real-time livestream and the chance for each dog to be groomed as often as needed.

“A lot of people got dogs during the COVID shutdown,” said Kathy Stone, owner of Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville. “Now that they are going back to work, they bring their dogs to camp – and we love it!”

As always, Camp Bow Wow continues to screen new campers to make sure they are a good fit for the camp. Dog owners will have the chance to bring their pups to try out camp for three hours or so, watching them as they learn to navigate the ins and outs of camp while meeting new canine buddies.

“If the dogs aren’t happy, camp is not happy!” said Kathy. “We want to make every single camper feel safe and secure while they’re here.”

Now that much of the world is getting back into the swing of things, the staff at Camp Bow Wow is excited to be able to host and participate in more events. One event that Kathy and her team are looking forward to is PAWfest 2021, which takes place in October on the Lawrenceville Lawn.

Moving forward, Kathy is excited to continue the growth that Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville has seen over the summer, including hiring some new staff members. If you’re at least 16 years old and think working with puppies all day long sounds like a dream job, get in touch with Kathy. She may have just the opportunity you’re looking for.

“Business is booming. We have so many new dogs here!” said Kathy. “We are excited to be back and offering the community a place for their dogs to be cared for while they work.”

If you think your pup needs to check out this camp, just head to their website and fill out an application. A staff member will get back to you about your next steps, and soon your best buddy will be living the good life at Camp Bow Wow Lawrenceville.

More information at www.campbowwow.com/lawrenceville-ga or call (770) 995-3500

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Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett /Walton area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers.

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On the Cover: A Barking Fun Time at Camp Bow Wow From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks Learning Lessons: Teaching Little Hands to Make a Big Difference Hot Springs National Park: 100 Years of Vacation Memories Leaders Are Human, Too Giving Back: Green Financial Charity Golf Classic One on One: Tenijah Hamilton, SGHS Class of 2010 Aurora Theatre – Staging Creativity in Gwinnett Silver Sneakers Program: Exercising at the Wellness Studio The Gift of Stories Community Business Spotlight: Up Close with Cutting Edge Painting Spice Up Your Life with The Herb Gal Inspire Your Whole Family with Kid Explorer Community Member Spotlight: Meet Traci Sanders Home Improvement Ideas: Five Simple Indoor Projects Plan for your Future with Kent Suter One Man’s Opinion: The Gift of a Job Tips for Creating an Edible Garden: Anytime and Anywhere From Germany to Grayson Computers: Meet Frank Rakoczy Getting to Know: Elena Diaz and Family

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From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

Hello everyone, happy October. This month I decided to spend time talking about individuals and organizations that desire to communicate their brand and story. Everyone has a brand. Thus, the question is NOT if you have a brand but what do you do with your brand? You see, your brand is not defined by what you say it is, but is indeed characterized by what others say it is. To that end, successful individuals/organizations work hard to develop their brands through effective communication. Always remember that building a strong, recognizable, and consistent brand takes time, effort, and commitment. And, it requires a deliberate, purposeful, and intentional strategy. We live in a constantly connected world, making it vital to keep your name and story in front of people through mediums they look forward to using. Our Town Gwinnett is a great choice (with many channels) to help you achieve your local marketing and communication needs.

To help simplify this subject, I have developed a BRAND acronym. A BRAND can be considered the Baseline (measurement) of one’s Reputation, Attributes, Name, and Distinctiveness.

Reputation is all you or your organization stands for. Attributes are the characteristics others use when describing you. Your Name suggests something (good, bad, or indifferent) when one hears it. Your Distinctiveness answers the question, “What makes you unique?” Or, “So What, Why You, Who cares?” You see price is price. Value is about your brand. Thus, value is = goods/ services + price + you (your brand). Nobody else can be you. Only you can be you. This is what your brand is all about.

Once you know what your brand is, you can determine the ways you want to purposefully grow, change, re-frame, promote, and/or strengthen your current brand position. So, how do you define your brand? Does it matter? You bet! Remember, we all have a brand and there is no better time than now to address it.

Thank you, as always for your support and continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN.

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Learning Lessons: Teaching Little Hands to Make a Big Difference

By Tanisha Turner

In today’s world, it is important to take purposeful steps to help children grow up to be compassionate and generous human beings. Children who learn the value of giving back at a young age are better able to develop a sense of empathy and citizenship. In addition, research shows that young children who have high prosocial skills – or behaviors meant to benefit another – are also among the most cognitively ready for school.

While teaching young children the joy of giving back can seem overwhelming for parents, helping to instill these attributes in your little ones may be simpler than you think.

A study conducted by two Harvard anthropologists, John and Beatrice Whiting, observed the altruistic practices of children of six different cultures. Their findings indicate that, regardless of culture, gender, or socioeconomic status, the most significant differentiating variable is that children assigned more household responsibilities are more helpful and giving.

Encouraging children to contribute to the well-being of the family at a young age – by taking care of the family’s pets, helping parents care for younger siblings, and performing household chores – teaches them the importance of giving back, and, more importantly, the sense of fulfillment derived from helping others. Parents can use the following tips to help nurture selflessness and generosity in children at home: 1. Model kindness to your child and others. Let your child see you offering to help a neighbor or co-worker and express to him or her the happiness you feel when helping others.

2. Remind your child how helping benefits others. Include your child in simple activities by asking for help. For instance, you might say, “Who wants to be my special helper today and help carry laundry to the washer? We won’t have clean clothes without you!” Or, “The dog looks hungry. I bet he’d really appreciate it if you gave him his food and water.”

3. Acknowledge helpful behavior. Show your appreciation and explain why it was helpful to you. For example, rather than just saying “Thank you,” instead say, “Thank you for helping me carry the dishes to the kitchen without being asked. That saved me a lot of time.”

4. Encourage giving. If another child doesn’t have a toy to play with, suggest that your child offer up a toy so they can both have something fun to play with.

5. Avoid rewarding generosity. Avoid material rewards for helping and giving behaviors.

Treats for good deeds may work in the short term, but over time children may become less generous when the rewards stop.

You may also consider taking your child with you to volunteer for a nonprofit organization.

Choosing volunteer activities that are age-appropriate is important. Children as young as 3 years old enjoy participating in group activities and are able to follow directions.

Think through the following questions to help select a volunteer opportunity that is right for your family: Does the organization have experience working with children and families?

Will the organization staff welcome my child’s participation? Is there a specific job that my child can do successfully? Can the organization help my child understand how his or her efforts benefit others?

Compassion and generosity are important traits for every person to have. Helping young children learn the joy and fulfillment of lending a helping hand to others will empower them to make a difference in the world, both as children and adults.

Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway.

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Hot Springs National Park: 100 Years of Vacation Memories

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

For 100 years, Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas has provided a peaceful and enjoyable getaway for millions of Americans. Initially established in 1832 as Hot Springs Reservation, it is the oldest federally protected site in the national park system. And as Hot Springs National Park celebrates its centennial year, there is no better way to celebrate the anniversary than to visit, take in the sights and sounds, and reflect on its legacy.

As its name implies, the park is known for its thermal springs, breathtaking mountain views, and an abundance of hiking and biking trails. It’s no wonder nearly 1.3 million people visited in 2020. The spring water that flows on the southwestern slope of Hot Springs Mountain is formed by rain that takes about 4,400 years to travel roughly 6,000 feet into the Earth before reemerging at more than 40 hot springs.

Most of the springs are capped to prevent contamination and are the only such springs that are managed for both public health and consumptive use. However, there are plenty of places to interact with the natural flowing water, like in Bathhouse Row’s bathhouses. While the hot springs are the main attraction, here are a few things you may not know about the park and the town: * The springs produce thousands of gallons of water. There are several locations throughout the park at which consumers can bottle their own water directly from the springs. Between 600,000 and 800,000 gallons of water is produced each day, emerging at an average temperature of 143 degrees F/62 degrees C. * Hot Springs is also a town of lakes. A trio of lakes surrounds the Hot Springs area. Lakes Ouachita, Hamilton, and Catherine share the same water, but are separated by dams. These clear waters offer thousands of acres of recreational fun to fish, swim, float, sail, and enjoy time on a party barge. The shorelines offer beautiful space for camping and picnics. * It was the first location for Major League Baseball spring training. Before Major League Baseball retreated to Florida and Arizona for spring training, the greatest players in the game prepared for their seasons at Hot Springs. For much of the last century, baseball legends like Babe Ruth, Cy Young, Honus Wagner, and Satchel Paige trained there and “boiled out the alcoholic microbes of winter” in the local thermal baths, believing in the healing powers of the water. The Hot Springs Baseball Trail will take you to important locations in the town’s rich history with America’s pastime. * It was a hotbed for illegal gambling. At one point in its history, Hot Springs had the largest illegal gambling operation in the country. While those days ended in 1967, you can now treat Hot Springs like a small-town Las Vegas at the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort. Today, Oaklawn continues to be one of the nation’s leading Thoroughbred racing facilities and has a world-class casino. * It was neutral territory for gangsters. Gangsters didn’t just hang out in Chicago and New York. Many came to Hot Springs to take advantage of the bathhouses. Al Capone even had a suite in the Arlington Hotel, which is located near Hot Springs National Park. If you want to learn more about the history of gangsters in this area, you can visit the Gangster Museum of America.

Times have changed a lot since Hot Springs National Park was established 100 years ago.

Many are looking forward to what the next century holds, and both the park and the city hope to expand and preserve their legacies for future generations. (BPT)

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Leaders Are Human, Too

By Jeanet Wade

Leading a business is a challenge under any circumstances. It’s a juggling act of managing strategies, projects, and teams. It’s tracking the moving parts and changing priorities, and it’s supporting and up-leveling people. In a year that has dished up one rollercoaster after another, it’s natural for us to feel that we have to do more, be more, and take more than ever onto our already full plates.

I see so many leaders who are rising to that challenge in astonishing ways. They’re taking care of business and the people their business depends on, using every feature of technology and every ounce of creativity they can corral.

Some of my clients have even commented that this remote work thing isn’t all bad. In fact, it can be super-productive. Their teams are head-in-the-game focused, rising to the challenge of using technology to cover the functions that their shared workspaces once filled, and joking about the one-minute commute from bedroom to office and the new “business on top, party on the bottom” dress code.

But I believe that this pandemic is going to prove – perhaps faster and more definitively than I expected when I first read it – that what John Naisbitt wrote in Megatrends: Ten New Directions Transforming Our Lives will be absolutely prophetic: “The most exciting breakthrough of the 21st century will occur not because of technology, but because of an expanding concept of what it means to be human.”

I included that quote when writing The Human Team, which is about the importance of bridging the gap between nature and nurture, before I’d ever heard of COVID-19. As the pandemic has unfolded, I’ve watched the effects on leaders and teams and have seen how true those words are in this emerging business environment.

Here’s what leaders have to remember, especially now: just because you’re the leader doesn’t make you less human. And to harness the brilliance of your team, you have to embrace your own humanness as well. You have your own unique brilliance, and if you aren’t bringing that full and authentic brilliance to the team, you’re making yourself the weakest link in the chain. But to do that you have to take care of more than the business and the people who make the business possible. You have to take care of you.

Now this isn’t an article about self-care, and I’m not going to recommend that you make sure you eat good food, take long walks, and sit in a bubble bath with a glass of wine or a cup of tea now and again. Self-care is important, physical health is important, and if you love bubble baths, please enjoy them liberally. But just as I discovered after nearly a decade as a Certified EOS Implementer® and more than 500 sessions in my “Business Laboratory,” employing nurturing activities in the workplace won’t serve any purpose if the team’s basic human needs aren’t being met, and no amount of nutrition, exercise, and relaxation will keep a business leader at his or her peak performance if one’s needs aren’t being met as well.

As we seek to master “remote leadership,” it is easy to become isolated and to give up our peer group meetings or the happy hour time with other entrepreneurs and business leaders.

We might find ourselves pouring all our energy into our work – clients and team – without giving ourselves permission to ask, “Who am I, where am I, who are my peers, what is it going to take for me to be my best, and how are my needs being met?”

I’m finding that The Six Facets of Human Needs™ – which is how I’ve defined those universal human needs that, much as Maslow’s Hierarchy illustrates the requirements for an individual to self-actualize, provide a framework for the requirements of a group of people to realize their potential as a business team – are just as applicable to business leaders as they are to the teams they lead. So, before you put on those tennis shoes or pour your glass of wine or cup of tea, give some thought to this list of needs and how you can make sure you’re meeting them for yourself as well as your team.

1. Clarity We need to be clear on the bigger vision, the expectations, and the requirements. Without clarity we feel uncertain and confused. Give yourself focused time to get clear on your core values and priorities and what part you need to play in the business to move forward most easily and powerfully.

2. Connection We need a sense of belonging, solidarity, and community. Without connection we’re isolated, insecure, and easily threatened. Plug into your support network and find ways to connect at a human level to your peers and team.

3. Contribution We need to feel that what we do matters. Without contribution we feel insignificant and disengaged. Finding ways to contribute to your community as well as to projects within your business can bring it home for you just how important your unique brilliance really is.

4. Challenge We are wired to strive for something greater. Especially in crisis, we need structured and

Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

healthy challenges. This might be the perfect opportunity to learn a new skill or to take over a project in an area where you will have the encouragement and support to succeed.

5. Consideration Everyone needs to be seen and regarded as a whole person. Without consideration from others, we feel invisible. Regardless of their role and status, leaders need to surround themselves with people who honor their humanity and recognize their inherent worth. Hopefully you have the consideration of your team, but ensure that you’re building a peer “tribe” of people who value you just for who you are.

6. Confidence Confidence gives us the ability to trust ourselves and the world around us and to move through, even embrace, risk and failure. It’s natural that you’ll doubt yourself sometimes, but make a daily practice of being grateful for both successes and failures, acknowledging your gifts, and allowing yourself to celebrate your unique, brilliant, human self.

In crisis or any other time, to be a truly effective leader, and to get the best out of those you lead, you can’t be afraid to be fully human, embracing both your unique brilliance and your universal human needs. As this year winds down, I remind myself and my clients more often than ever that it’s okay to be human. In fact, the most important thing we can be is human. Just remember that you are a human being, not just a human doing, and to be your best self requires more than nurture or self-care. It demands that the needs that come with being human are being met for you as well as for your team.

Jeanet Wade is the ForbesBooks author of The Human Team: So, You Created a Team But People Showed Up! More information at www.thehumanteambook.com

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PAGE 11

Giving Back: Green Financial Charity Golf Classic

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

Green Financial Resources LLC (GFR) in Duluth, founded by Roger Green almost thirty-four years ago, recently hosted its 18th Charity Golf Classic and Dinner. On a hot, gorgeous day at The River Club in Suwanee, participants enjoyed a great day of golf while helping to raise over $53,000 to benefit the Auditory-Verbal Center, Inc, (AVC).

Michael Green, Roger’s son, was diagnosed as being deaf as an infant. With a cochlear implant, and the training he received from Auditory-Verbal Center as a child, he does not use sign language to communicate, and his speech is clear. Michael works as a Client Service Manager and Investment Advisor in the family business. He holds Bachelor’s in Accounting and Finance from Mercer University and a Master’s in Finance from Georgia State.

“I enjoy seeing people pull together to do good for others,” said Roger. These golf tournaments have become a celebrated tradition with his clients, staff, and family. The tournament has supported many charities through the years, but for the past few years that support has gone to AVC. Roger’s wife and COO, Laura Green, and Client Service Manager Kelly Schmidt have taken the lead on organizing and carrying out the planning details for all of these tournaments/dinners from the very beginning. Roger’s niece, Taylor Sloss, who joined GFR in 2017 as Laura’s part-time Marketing Assistant, took a lead role coordinating the multitude of details and pursuing sponsorships.

Through the years, that effort has helped Green Financial collect over $550,000 that went directly to local charities. GFR staff does most of the soliciting for donors and sponsors, saving the charity the effort and bringing them new sources of potentially ongoing donations. GFR’s advertising connections, such as Our Town Gwinnett Magazine, have also helped to bring awareness to these wonderful non-profits and the services they provide.

To cap off the overall success of the golf tournament’s fundraising, on September 21, 2021, Roger Green won the national Invest in Others Community Service Award. Along with recogni-

One on One: Tenijah Hamilton, SGHS Class of 2010

By K. Coats

Of all the graduates from Gwinnett County Public Schools interviewed for the Hometown Brag column, Tenijah Hamilton has definitely traveled the farthest. In fact, if you traveled any farther, you’d be on your way back to the States! Having lived in New Zealand, Tenijah’s perspective of the world has a lot of variables, which she’s found can make “home” all the sweeter.

Tenijah attended both Meadowcreek High School and South Gwinnett High School (SGHS) where she graduated in 2010. She attended the University of West Georgia and graduated in 2015 with a degree in mass communications and creative writing. And despite living across the globe, she is now back home living in Grayson. Her current job is Program Manager at NOVA on PBS. She is also a host and producer at BirdNote where she runs a podcast on conservation called Bring Birds Back. Tenijah also has plans to ensure her creative writing degree is used. “I wrote a children’s book!” she says. “It’s still a draft, but in a time when I wasn’t writing at all and I was feeling uninspired, it helped me to find a little more magic. I’d love to publish it one day.”

During her time in Gwinnett County as a student, Tenijah was involved with the Meadowcreek theater program, but acting was far from her goals. “When I was at Meadowcreek,” she says, “I was pretty involved in theater, only so much as I made friends with the real theater kids and was pretty content being an extra and a stagehand.” But once she arrived at SGHS, she seems to have found her groove being part of DECA, mock trial, yearbook, and literary competition.

When it comes to influential teachers, Tenijah confessed she had many. “My favorite teacher was without a doubt Mr. [Heath] Gibson,” she admits, though she adds that AP Literature and Composition might have been her favorite class. “I loved the lit timed writing activities we did every Friday,” she recalls, “and I came across some of my most influential and memorable texts in [that] class.” Some of those novels included Their Eyes Were Watching God, The Stranger, and Crime and Punishment.

Between living abroad and the confines of the pandemic, Tenijah has come to embrace and savor the small joys in life. Some of those joys many can agree with. “I really love the Snellville Farmers Market,” she says. “It always gives me a little bit of a Stars’ Hollow feel a la Gilmore Girls.” And you won’t find many who disagree. The Snellville Farmers Market does show Snellville at its best.

PAGE 12

tion for his focus on doing good in the community, Roger’s win results in the Auditory-Verbal Center receiving another check for $50,000.00 from Invest in Others!

Roger Green is an Investment Advisor Representative providing securities and advisory services through Cetera Advisors, LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA), broker/dealer, and member FINRA/SIPC. His office is located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy NW, Duluth GA 30096.

More information at RogerSGreen.com.

Other small joys can be accomplishment-based such as learning to make biscuits from scratch. And Tenijah reminds us all that sometimes you have to leave your comfort zone to learn what matters most.

“I have traveled a lot in the eleven years since I graduated high school, and it has been a great privilege, and one from which I learned a lot – a lot about myself too – that no matter where you go, there are things from the ways and the places you were raised that stick with you no matter what corner of the world you find yourself.” And in this, each place has left its mark. “Customs may be different globally, but my kindness is from Georgia. My smart mouth is from New York City.

And though I’ve luckily been disabused of any misguided notions about American Exceptionalism, grape jelly is the supreme match for peanut butter on a sandwich, and we may not have hobbits or universal healthcare, but we will forever have that over New Zealand.”

And grape jelly isn’t the only thing that has altered over the years.

Tenijah says, “My ambitions only extend as far as I feel I am fulfilling my purpose and being purposeful with my life. What I’ve learned is that the things that I wanted at 18...changed. They evolved. And contrary to what I may have thought as a teenager, that really is the best-case scenario. I want to make the people in my life proud, I want to live a life of happiness, health, and love with my partner Ryan, and I would like to officially learn to drive!”

But while those goals may be straightforward, that doesn’t mean Tenijah isn’t juggling a lot professionally. “I manage NOVA’s very first youth facing program, The NOVA Science Studio,” she explains.

“The NOVA Science Studio is a program that aims to empower youth – especially those that are underrepresented in STEM – to tell engaging science communication stories about the issues that matter to them. In my role, I manage strategic planning, creative direction, and rollout for the program.” So, whenever you see the NOVA series on PBS, know that a little of Gwinnett is behind the scenes.

Tenijah would like to give a shout out to “my four siblings! Two other SGHS grads, one a rising senior and another an incoming freshman. Go Comets!”

Thank you, Tenijah, for your hard work with the NOVA series and in your conservation efforts for our bird populations. We here at Our Town wish you the best and look forward to seeing your children’s book in print. And thank you as well for reminding us to savor the small joys, especially biscuits from scratch and grape jelly.

More information about Tenijah Hamilton on Linkedin or on Twitter @teniiijah.

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Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Aurora Theatre – Staging Creativity in Gwinnett

By Beth Volpert Johansen

The idea of sustainability is certainly one that has cemented itself into the post-pandemic world.

Finding a way to make good things perpetual has become paramount to the survivability of various enterprises. The Arts are no different. Hit hard by the pandemic, stages and those who perform on them across the globe have been pressed to put creativity to new tests.

From the Aurora’s earliest days in 1996, co-founders Anthony Rodriguez and Ann-Carol Pence have maintained a commitment to the creativity of artists and the community that supports them. The theatre’s mission statement includes the understanding that theatre’s future depends on many factors, but few are as important as an outreach to a new generation of theatergoers.

During the pandemic, Anthony had to consider several potential scripts for the new direction of regional theatre. “Our options were not like the ones my colleagues in California could consider,” explains Anthony. “We had to ask ourselves what were the things we could actually do.” What they did was to press forward. They moved outdoors and called upon the resources located in the culturally-rich Gwinnett County. Celebrating their 25th Anniversary, Christmas Canteen would become the “show that must go on” in the face of Covid-19 restrictions. “We held the canteen at the Sugar Hill Bowl with 500 in attendance in the 2,000-seat venue,” says Anthony. “It was cold, but it was beautiful!”

Following what turned out to be a successful Holiday Season, the creative team began to seek and support various shows at the theatre and in the community. “We have been able to hold a concert on the new lawn in Lawrenceville and have had great success with comedy nights at

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.”

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.

Continued on page 14

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PAGE 13

The Gift of Stories

By K. Coats

There’s a lot of talk about things that all humans do. Academics refer to them as “universal norms” because they occur across the globe and across cultures without influences from one another. One of these that seems to take shape the earliest is story-telling. There’s a magic in it that is unlike anything else. And the best thing about story-telling is anyone can do it. Some might be more adept at it than others, but no one asks for your certification or credentials. No one is issuing story-telling licenses. There is no one stopping you.

When families get together, it isn’t long before the stories start popping up. And what’s neat is that they aren’t always new. There’s a comfort in old, repetitive stories as well. And one of my favorite things about stories is that one leads to another. They string along, and we sit back and soak them up. Stories let us relive past experiences or learn about the experiences of others.

Honestly, it’s the closest to time travel we’ve gotten.

Since becoming a parent, stories have become even more important. My kids love to hear stories about themselves as babies; but even more so, they love to hear about stories from my

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PAGE 14

childhood. Sometimes they’ll ask for specific stories. “Mom, tell us the story about you and Aunt Alena and the Vegemite!” The stories become as familiar to them as their own experiences. And many years from now, when I’ve gone on to my reward, my kids will know that story well enough to tell their own children. “Do you want to hear about the time Grandma and Great Aunt Alena tried Vegemite?”

I can tell you a family story as far back as my great great grandmother. She passed away a long time ago, but I still know that when she was sixteen, her youngest sister was born. She was so excited that she ran out to the road by their house, stopped cars, and told everyone she saw that she had a new sister. My great grandmother told me of how she and her brother schemed to sell some hay in town so they could get some money to go to the cinema, and it was her job to distract her grandmother (my great 3x grandmother) from going outside to see the absent brother. My grandfather passed away only a few years ago, but I remember his story of how he played with the German POWs as a little boy during WWII as they worked the fields. There are so many stories I’ve learned over the years, and it’s those stories that keep my loved ones near even when they’ve gone. Truth be told, it’s the greatest gift they could have given me.

So, as we begin to gather again and see loved ones we’ve missed, in addition to your signature potluck item, don’t forget to bring your best stories to share. Dust off old ones. Share those stories and give the gift of a memory passed down. And cherish each one you hear because that story will endure when pictures fade. It will anchor us in the minds of others and live longer than anyone can predict. *To those curious about the “Vegemite story”, here it is. Growing up my sister had heard about the Australian product called Vegemite. She’d heard how Australians were the only ones who could stand it, and she really wanted to step up to the challenge. While in college, I found some at an international market and brought it home to her. We toasted a slice of bread for each of us and put a thin layer across it. My little brother, about six years old at this time, stood by and watched. My sister went first and took a bite of the bread. Apparently, her initial experience was mostly toast because she nodded and said, “It’s not that ba…” The end of that word never came because she started gagging, having finally hit the actual Vegemite layer. I tried my slice with similar results. We both turned towards our brother who decided it was a good time to start running. Needless to say, no one went back for seconds.

Silver Sneakers Program Continued from page 13

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.

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Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Community Business Spotlight: Up Close with Cutting Edge Painting

By Kristen Eleveld

We’ve all been working from home for a while now, and many of us have embarked on some home projects, such as updating the paint in the kitchen, to pass the time. If you’ve been thinking about changing up some of the colors in your home, you don’t want to use just anyone. You need a company that knows what it’s doing and cares about its clients. You need Cutting Edge Painting.

Founded seven years ago, Cutting Edge Painting has made a name for itself throughout its hometown community of Grayson and the greater Gwinnett area. While this company certainly brings a high level of expertise and knowledge to every paint job, it is the incredible level of customer service that keeps customers coming back.

This client-first mentality is the philosophy of owner Nathan McMichael, who has been the sole owner since 2016. Nathan believes that treating customers well isn’t just a good idea, it’s the only way to do business. He extends this philosophy to his own crew members as well.

“When I hire someone for our team, I am not just looking for experienced painters,” said Nathan. “I am looking for people who have great character and who understand what it means to serve.”

The service for each Cutting Edge Painting client goes above and beyond. In fact, the reviews speak for themselves. Nathan always invites people to leave a review whether they are happy with his work or not, and he finds that an overwhelming majority of the feedback he receives is positive and shows just how satisfied his customers are. His team members are often commended for their dedication to a job well done.

“Every client is paying for more than just a paint job – they are paying for an experience,” said Nathan. “We are going to give you quality work and stick with your project until it’s done.”

If a client finds that a project did not live up to his or her expectations, Nathan encourages the client to reach out to him and his team so they can make it right. He is always ready to listen to a customer issue and fix a problem, even if the project was already completed.

For Nathan, this business is about creating relationships. He knows his clients are spending money to make their home or business better, and he wants to deliver in every way.

“When I do work for a customer, we’re really there to build a relationship based on trust,” Nathan said. “I want to show people that we are a quality company that can really meet their needs.”

Cultivating relationships doesn’t end with the customers. The team at Cutting Edge Painting has been active in the community for several years, and just launched a new program that is designed to identify individuals or organizations in need and then provide a solution for them.

Cutting Edge Painting decided to call this the REACH Initiative, which serves as an acronym for their core values: Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Character, and Honesty.

Through the REACH Initiative, Nathan and his team have been able to meet a variety of needs in the Grayson area, whether it’s donating painting services for a local family or working with small businesses and charities to give them some much-needed building updates. Each summer, they ask for nominees through their social media accounts, and then choose a recipient at the end of August.

“It’s pretty awesome to be able to give back like this,” said Nathan. “Being part of the community is always important to us.”

If you want to check out Cutting Edge Painting in person, take a look around Grayson. Nathan and his team are currently working with the city to paint several buildings, and you’ll be able to see his handiwork in several local businesses as well. Thanks to the incredible service they provide to customers who happily spread the word, Cutting Edge Painting has made itself a household name for the entire Grayson community.

As for Nathan, his priority is to continue to use his skills and his incredible team to make their neighborhood a better place.

“God’s blessed me with this company,” said Nathan. “Painting houses is great, but I want to do more and have more purpose. I want to give back, pay it forward, and pass it on.”

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PAGE 15

Aurora Theatre Continued from page 13 Ironshield Brewing,” says Anthony. “We have done lots of smaller shows and had new and exciting artists approach us with ideas for events.”

One program, called Aurora Welcomes, has been established to encourage new partnerships.

The idea is to draw from the diverse community to provide a steady stream of culturally rich entertainment. “Our expanded spaces will allow us to partner with a variety of folks looking for space to perform and best reach audiences,” explains Anthony. “This is key to the success for the arts and will leave a legacy for the theatre in which it is owned and embraced by the people who live here.”

As the Aurora begins to test new waters, they keep their community in mind, knowing that things have changed for everyone. “We are in the middle of our summer camps now,” says Anthony. “The groups are smaller, but the campers are having a great time even while keeping safety and with cleanliness protocols in mind.”

Additionally, the younger set are becoming stronger stakeholders in community theatre.

“We have a robust partnership with Georgia Gwinnett College and will continue to grow,” says

PAGE 16

Anthony. Outreach to students has come very close to the theatre home. Several of the Aurora family served on an advisory board that guided the School of Performing Arts establishment at Central Gwinnett High School. “The proximity is great and we are looking forward to seeing the future of performing arts,” Anthony adds.

While the pandemic caused many to halt in their tracks, it has been through creativity that new possibilities occur. For Aurora, the possibilities keep presenting themselves as people begin to attend live shows again, and the dynamic of performer and audience is restored for the benefit of both. “There are so many arenas for expression in this post-pandemic,” says Anthony. “We are very excited to be seeing people in event situations. People want to be out again.”

For events, the new Aurora has been planned with a variety of audiences and attendees in mind. “There will be space available for uses beyond performance,” says Anthony. With five performance areas, the Aurora’s new capacity will be a good fit for weddings, corporate gatherings, and other more social bookings that will benefit from the new flexible spaces.

Ultimately, it is the Aurora supporters’ wish that the theatre will bring a strong and creative vibe to an already vibrant community. “We are coming back bigger and better than ever!” says Anthony with contagious enthusiasm. And from the smile on his face, it’s not an act!

More information at https://www.auroratheatre.com/

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Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Spice Up Your Life with The Herb Gal

By Kristen Eleveld

Some of us seem to be born with a green thumb. For others, it’s a miracle if we can keep a plant alive for more than a day. If you’re looking to expand your floral horizons, you might want to consider learning more about herbs – and for that, you need The Herb Gal. A few years ago, Julia Jensen Wilkinson, aka The Herb Gal, would have told you she wasn’t that interested in growing anything. She thought plants were cool, and she was always into biology, but she had never really considered how biology related to plants. Then, after retiring from a modeling career and moving to Naples, Florida, she began working for the Naples Botanical Gardens – and it was love at first sight.

“I fell in love with the chemistry and ecology of plants and how essential they are,” said Julia.

“Plants give us a lot of things that are often overlooked.”

Inspired by the greenery she’d seen at the botanical gardens, Julia decided to try her hand at growing her own herbs.

After moving back to Gwinnett County to be closer to her family, Julia decided she would open a business focused on growing herbs and showing others how they could try to do the same.

While her business is new, Julia has already made a name for herself at the local Snellville and Lilburn farmers markets.

These markets have given her the opportunity to not only sell her herbs to her local community, but also create connections with other vendors at the market.

“It’s so cool to meet the community,” Julia said. “I love making connections and learning what people’s lives have been like through the last few years.”

Along with selling a variety of amazing herbs to her clientele, Julia also encourages everyone to try growing herbs for themselves, even if it’s just to season their favorite meal.

“Anyone can grow herbs!” said Julia, who noted she still does not consider herself a houseplant person. “There is a little extra magic to grabbing your own oregano from your garden instead of buying it at the store.”

Julia is also exploring the uses of herbs for other purposes, like getting better sleep or soothing indigestion distress.

Thanks to the research she has been able to do through her biology studies at Georgia Gwinnett College, Julia has had the opportunity to understand that herbs can have a powerful effect.

After she graduates, Julia isn’t sure exactly which path she will take, but knows she wants to help educate people on how plants benefit them and to give them resources on herb maintenance and care. Currently, she and her husband are working on a website that will allow people to have access to a lot of information they could use to grow their own herbs at home. Beyond that, Julia envisions a life filled with biological research and other educational opportunities, which she also hopes to use to encourage people to learn more for themselves.

In the meantime, you can find The Herb Gal at the Lilburn Farmers Market on Friday afternoons, and at the Snellville Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. If you want to check out more of what Julia is up to in between markets, head over to her personal Instagram (@trap. queen.medusa) and her business Instagram (@the.herb.gal), where you can access photos, stories, and tips and tricks for understanding just how amazing herbs can be.

More information at https://theherbgal.com/

Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Inspire Your Whole Family with Kid Explorer

By Kristen Eleveld

If you have kids in your home, you’re probably well-acquainted with the craze that is YouTube and YouTube Kids. Due to the recent pandemic, these apps have gotten more use than ever and continue to grow in popularity. Now, thanks to one local family, there is a way to turn your child’s favorite activity into a learning opportunity – and you might learn something, too.

A couple of years ago, Bubba and Elizabeth Fulcher sat down with their kids at the dinner table to discuss an exciting event from that day. Their kids had met a police officer at the grocery store and had the chance to ask him a ton of questions. Bubba noticed how engaged the kids were when they had the chance to ask the questions themselves, rather than listen to someone else teach them. He and Elizabeth realized there was an opportunity to create content that wasn’t just made for kids, but made by kids, too.

“With so many kids, teachers, and parents suddenly switching to digital learning at home, we wanted to think of ways to support their teaching and learning,” said Elizabeth. “We wanted to become a resource for them during a difficult time.”

Bubba works as an Atlanta-based filmmaker while Elizabeth homeschools their three children, so the Fulchers were able to take advantage of their industry knowledge and scheduling flexibility. After deciding to create their own videos and content, and then figuring out which topics to cover and how to make the information appealing to kids, they began trying out different ideas until they found the perfect fit – and the Kid Explorer channel was created.

“We really focus on educational content for kids,” said Bubba. “But it’s not just another video – it’s kids teaching kids, which is what makes it so appealing.”

The Fulchers had been working on content for a while, but it was a series of videos surrounding the most recent presidential election that allowed their business to take off. They produced a series of short videos that outlined a lot of processes and questions: how a citizen can become the president, what it looks like to vote, and other related topics. This series gained the attention of multiple people and Kid Explorer began to grow in popularity.

Kid Explorer covers more than just important political processes. If you’re looking for a great way to get your kids or class moving, you will want to check out their Kid Fit Go! workout videos. Or you might catch up with Broadcast Cal, the host of Kid History, who covers topics like how to say the Pledge of Allegiance and ten fun facts about Independence Day (you might have caught this video at a Braves game during one of their opening ceremonies). You can even get kid-certified reviews of local vacation destinations or popular books. There are dozens of videos that cover a wide range of fun, informational topics that kids of all ages will enjoy.

Now, Kid Explorer has expanded beyond videos, offering supplemental material and blog posts that allow kids, parents, and educators to go above and beyond for learning and teaching.

They also offer video courses that focus on specific topics, like economics, nutrition, fitness, history, and creative writing. You can even join their Kid Explorer Club, which gives you access to all of their courses for a low fee, and the chance to interact and offer feedback on what topics you might want to see covered next.

“Kids’ attention spans are getting shorter,” said Elizabeth. “But with Kid Explorer, you can use a short video and educational materials to make subjects more engaging for every child.”

Moving forward, Bubba and Elizabeth are excited to let their kids have even more input into the video topics, along with the opportunity to pursue their interests and share them through Kid Explorer. They are also looking for schools that can use their material in the classroom to enhance the learning process in a fun, educational way.

“Making these videos can be a lot of work, but it’s a really cool bonding experience as a family,” said Bubba. “The kids are really involved, and Elizabeth and I look at this as a fun process for the whole family.”

“I love connecting with people who have been impacted by our videos,” added Elizabeth.

“Our motto is to inspire kids to explore, discover, and create wherever they are, and it’s great to see how this has positively impacted students.”

If you’re ready to explore with Kid Explorer, it’s easy. Find them online or on YouTube. Be warned, though – once you start watching these videos, you may find it hard to stop.

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PAGE 17

EXPLORE ALL THAT’S

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Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

Community Member Spotlight: Meet Traci Sanders

Home Improvement Ideas: Five Simple Indoor Projects

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.”

Continued on page 22

There is no need to go out and buy all new furniture and décor or undertake a major renovation to give your current interior a fresh look and feel. Small tweaks can make just as big of an impact. Spruce up interior spaces with these five simple do-it-yourself projects that can be tackled over a weekend.

1) Restore and Reorganize Décor: An easy way to give your living space a mini makeover is to reinvigorate existing décor. Start by repairing any damaged or broken decorative pieces such as frames, vases, or display items using a gel control applicator. Providing a precise, clean, and controlled application on a variety of materials including plastics, wood, rubber, metal, ceramics, and more, this gel adhesive is perfect for uneven or vertical applications and sets in just 30 seconds for a completely mess-free repair. Finish up by finding new homes for your prized décor pieces for a completely new look.

2) Update Bathroom Hardware: Nothing dates a bathroom more than an outdated faucet. Give your vanity a facelift by swapping out old fixtures with updated designs to help revitalize the sink. But do not stop there.

Replacing stained or worn-down caulk can give the entire bathroom a fresh look while preventing future moisture damage. Make sure to use a siliconized sealant when doing this.

3) Brighten Interior Walls: Whether you want your space to feel more spacious, a bit brighter, or even more soothing, a new paint color can do the trick. Everything from earthy, jewel tones to natural, more neutral aesthetics are trending this year. When selecting your color, sticking within the shade family of one of your longtime favorite colors will help guarantee the color brings you joy for years to come. Looking to ease in? Give an accent wall a shot!

4) Repair Holes in the Drywall: Before you start painting a room, make sure you take the time to repair any nicks, dents, or holes in the drywall for a polished and professional finished result. Whether the damage is small from a picture frame nail or anchor, or as large as doorknob damage, wall repair patches come in different sizes and make repairing holes in drywall fast and easy. Just apply and paint for a completely mess-free repair in minutes.

5) Upgrade Lighting If your ceiling is still sporting a decades-old light fixture, revitalize it with something a little more modern. The same goes for lampshades and light fixtures. Swapping these out with new, upgraded looks is a simple and budget-friendly way to update any room in an afternoon. To complete your lighting update, consider replacing your current light bulbs with LED bulbs, which will provide a cooler light while helping reduce your energy bill. (BPT)

By Beth Volpert Johansen

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PAGE 19

Plan for your Future with Kent Suter

One Man’s Opinion: The Gift of a Job

Paying for long term care is probably not one of your family’s favorite topics to discuss at the dinner table. But as uncomfortable as it can be to make financial preparations for the end of your life or for the life of a loved one, making plans now can not only ensure that you don’t have to worry about it again, but it could also have huge financial ramifications for you and your loved ones.

If you’re wondering what long term care (LTC) is, think of it as the financial needs associated with the ongoing care that many people receive at the end of their lives. Whether this means round-the-clock nursing care or staying in a memory care facility, studies show that 70% of people will eventually need long term care.

Fortunately for the people of Gwinnett, we have an expert in Norcross who can help us find exactly what we need.

Meet Kent Suter, a local financial professional who specializes in retirement planning, life insurance, and, of course, long term care insurance.

“Long term care insurance is not one of those topics you wake up thinking about every day,” said Kent, “but those who have taken care of a loved one for an extended timeframe and have felt firsthand the emotional, physical, and financial toll it can take on a family understand the realities.”

But rather than offer traditional “use-it-or-lose-it” long term care insurance, Kent specializes in showing people a hybrid approach that provides benefits no matter the outcome. This approach not only offers world class LTC protection, but is also undergirded by a life insurance policy. If you never use the policy for long term, your family will instead receive a death benefit upon the passing of the insured. This plan can cover both spouses with equal benefits, which can have tremendous advantages.

Family is an especially important topic to Kent and has become the basis of his inspiration for working in this industry. Before he and his wife had their four children, Kent attended seminary and worked as a youth pastor at a local church for several years and now loves helping families prepare for their financial future.

For Kent, the draw to his job is similar to the goal he held as a youth pastor: he wants to help Continued on page 22

It did not feel like Christmas morning or even a birthday the late afternoon that I received my first job offer. It was 1974, I was 13, and before the end of that year, I was paying Social Security taxes. I didn’t entirely understand what FICA was until a few years and jobs later, but I did get in my early gigs that Uncle Sam and others were always going to take a piece of whatever I earned. Like many of my era, working as a teenager was considered a rite of passage. There were the kid jobs, paper route, selling greeting cards and Christmas paper, mowing lawns, and later jobs with a paycheck.

I was fortunate to host a local TV talk show aimed at teens for WSB-TV before I aged out with braces and pimples at 17; but at the same time, I had “real’ jobs.” My mother returned from a trip to the dry cleaners during my bicycle transportation years to tell me that the Bike/Lawn Mower Repair shop next to the dry cleaners was expecting me to show up Saturday morning and to become an “apprentice mechanic.” Handy or mechanically-inclined are two phrases never used to describe me. However, the owner was patient, I think a bit lonely for company, and he paid me to tighten brake and gear cables on bicycles and occasionally rebuild gunked-up Briggs & Stratton lawnmower engines.

In the years that followed, I would clean gutters, wait more tables, and work in catering and fine dining restaurants, put in long hours at Winn-Dixie on every imaginable assignment from stock clerk and cashier to cleaning restrooms and tossing old produce, bread, and dairy products at the end of each shift. Several summers were also spent in the family newspaper business, initially as copy boy, then back-issues archivist and errand-runner, and finally as a courier, running ad copy and proofs back and forth to advertising clients across a five-county service territory. I learned life lessons with each of these gigs, though easily waiting tables was the profession that taught me the most about dealing with the various types of people in this world. For many of those summers, I had two jobs at the same time.

Employment and the experiences that follow are a GIFT from any employer. They don’t have to hire you, or anyone for that matter. IT IS NOW TIME to accept this gift and take a job, and there are literally millions to choose from. The federal benefits pandemic assistance gravy train is soon ending. The moratorium against evictions and bans on foreclosure for non-rent payment have ended or been lifted. It is time to put that nose back to the grindstone, or if you are unfamiliar with that saying, to simply begin again expending effort towards funding the roof over your head, the car at the curb, and the mobile phone always at arm’s reach.

I also worked for quite a few jerks along the way. It is from some of them that you often learn the best lessons. One particularly self-important assistant manager during the Winn-Dixie years was dressing me down over some trivial shortcoming on that day. He looked me square in the

By Kristen Eleveld

By Bill Crane

Continued on page 22

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Tips for Creating an Edible Garden: Anytime and Anywhere

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff

People have become more healthconscious in the last year, seeking relaxing activities and projects that give them a sense of accomplishment.

According to the National Gardening Association, 67% of Americans are growing or planning to grow their own fruits, herbs, and vegetables in 2021. More than 18.3 million new gardeners are trying their hand at growing their own flowers or produce.

While growing your edible garden can be exciting, there are a few things to consider before you start. It can all feel a bit overwhelming, but with tips from Garrett Magee, the design mastermind behind the landscape design firm Manscapers, you can create the ultimate edible garden, no matter the time of year or where you live. Here are a few suggestions to help your garden sprout.

1) Think about what you already eat Before you start digging, plan your edible garden by looking inside your fridge to see what kinds of produce you buy from the grocery store. By growing fruits and veggies you like, you do not have to worry about them going to waste. If you have kids, grow the fruits and veggies they enjoy, too.

2) Start small When building your edible garden, start small by growing plants out of a window box or small garden bed. As you get more comfortable, slowly expand and scale up the following year.

Fruit and vegetable gardens are typically low maintenance, but they are never no maintenance, so be patient and stay on a regular schedule. You’ll develop your green thumb in no time.

3) Grow a vertical garden if you live in a big city If you live in an urban environment or don’t have a traditional backyard, every square inch of space is precious. However, that does not mean it’s impossible to garden. Focus on growing your produce up rather than out with tools like a garden trellis, which works well for supporting high-climbing plants like cucumbers.

4) Go green For the quickest turnaround on your homegrown crops, focus on leafy greens like lettuce, kale, spinach, and herbs. These vegetables are easy to grow, whether in a window box or a big backyard garden. Plus, you can continuously harvest them throughout the season. Important tip: when harvesting leafy greens, use scissors to cut off the outer leaves at the base of the stem. That way, they can grow new leaves in the center.

5) Find more ways to incorporate fruits and veggies into your life Growing an edible garden can help you to eat more of the fresh produce you love. However, you can also incorporate fruits and veggies into your daily routine with a Naked Juice smoothie.

Naked Rainbow Machine is a sip-able rainbow made from the juices of apples, mangos, bananas, kiwis, blueberries, blackberries, and red beets. “Beets are not only one of the ingredients, but also my favorite superfood,” says Magee. “They are a great end-of-season vegetable and can be planted at the end of spring or from June to September.” (BPT)

From Germany to Grayson 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 had to find a job to support his passion. He learned blacksmithing and worked with his father, Continued on page 22

Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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PAGE 21

From Germany to Grayson Computers Continued from page 21 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.

Plan for your Future with Kent Suter Continued from page 20 people in need.

“The burden for long term care tends to fall on the adult child who lives closest to their parents,” said Kent. “I know so many people who didn’t look into long term care until it was too late. LTC insurance not only has an incredible impact on the individual, but also the loved ones who are trying to care for them.”

Part of Kent’s passion comes from his own life as a father. His youngest son was diagnosed with Down Syndrome at birth, which showed Kent, his wife, and their other three children a perspective they had never known before.

“As an agent who knows and understands what it feels like to deal with special needs in their family, I hope that my practice can continue to develop in this area,” said Kent. “Special needs families already carry a tremendous load every day. The last thing most of them want to think about is a financial roadmap and LTC protection. That’s where I come in.”

Kent added, “Like wearing a bicycle helmet, you hope you never have to use long term care, but if you do, you’ll certainly be glad you have it. It might not change the length of your life, but it can definitely impact the quality of your life for the better.”

More information at kent@jfgatl.com

PAGE 22

Getting to Know: Elena Diaz and Family

By Beth Volpert Johansen

Retirement has kept Literacy Specialist Elena Diaz exceptionally busy. Her life has taken on a new storyline from the day she stepped away from her duties at Lovin Elementary School in Lawrenceville.

Some of her storyline is deeply rooted in her earliest years as a child in Cuba. Yet, her future tales and her family’s future are strongly tied to the Atlanta area.

To say that the written word is precious to Elena is an exceptional understatement. The value of communication, in all forms, is cherished. “Although I was only eleven when I left, those memories are pretty clear and have shaped a lot of who I am,” Elena says. She knows that her love of reading could not have been fully realized had her family not left the beautiful island. “I remember my sister having to work at a young age in horrible conditions before we left,” Elena recalls. “She didn’t have the opportunity to complete her education; but once we left Cuba, she was able to learn about the banking industry and eventually retired as a banking vice president.”

Passing along the love of literacy was second nature to Elena. Her daughter, Helen, is the media specialist at Lovin Elementary. “I love to go back and volunteer,” says Elena. “Working with books and reading good stories is very much a passion.” Sharing the love of books with her daughter has come full circle from the days of reading together. “When I started the book room when Lovin opened years ago, I had to beg, scrimp, and scour to find books,” she says. “Now, helping Helen reorganize to make it better – I still love it at Lovin.”

Preserving stories is also something Elena finds crucial to keeping her heritage alive. “Cubans are not free to write their stories while they are in Cuba,” explains Elena. “It isn’t until artists, poets, and writers have left the country that they are able to realize that creative side of themselves.” She explains that most of what is available to read is still very much slanted towards the government. “My family and friends who remain in Cuba have been posting on social media as best as they can,” says Elena. “We hear how horrible the conditions are and how much they are suffering, but even those posts are few and far between.”

Elena’s heartfelt words tell some of their story: Cuban exiles, as a whole, have done so in search of freedom and to have a better life for their families. They want jobs, a place to live, and to have their basic needs met, for their children to have choices and opportunities, and to not fear that speaking their minds, or going to church, or anything the government sees wrong can land them in jail or cause them death. In reading some of what those there say about wanting, they don’t talk about leaving the island. They talk about having the freedoms there, of rebuilding Cuba so its people can thrive.

According to Elena, preserving the stories of Cuba and the Cuban people is reliant upon oral histories. “Our older generation, the ones who really know what it was like before the Communist government, have valuable stories to tell,” explains Elena. “In so many ways, it is worse now than it was before with censorship. People are terrified to speak out, to write anything. Even with the Internet, it isn’t a safe thing to do.” Thinking about her own family, how she grew up loving words and stories and passed that love on to her children, has Elena Diaz thinking hard about the generations of Cuban history that are slowly aging away. “If I have one piece of advice for those who have emigrated from Cuba, it would be to tell their stories – to keep the oral history alive for generations to come.”

One Man’s Opinion: The Gift of a Job Continued from page 20 eyes, and said, “You can do anything you want, anywhere you want, with anyone you want...this is America. OR you can be here, get paid well, and work for me. IF you are here, you are going to do it the way I tell you to do it, OR you won’t be here. We clear?”

Yes, he was a jackass, but he also reminded me, in an at-will employment state, even IF I know a better way, unless I’m the boss, I still need to follow the manual and take direction. THAT is part of real life. Those lessons don’t always come from home and mom and dad or even school anymore. They come from working and the school of life. Go get a job and get schooled.

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

Meet Traci Sanders Continued from page 19 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

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Oct ’21 Our Town Gwinnett

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