OCTOBER 2023: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

OCTOBER 2023 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town

Up Close with Precious Hands Home Care Services, see story on page 5.

GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Lawrenceville Snellville Loganville

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October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

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CIVIL • CRIMINAL ESTATE PLANNING & WILLS 3050 Amwiler Road Suite 200-C Atlanta, GA 30360

167 Lee Street Jefferson, GA 30549

404-228-2629 Email: info@wblegal.net PAGE 4

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On the Cover:

Finding the Right Care with Precious Hands Home Care Services

By Kristen Eleveld “The precious gift of caregiving; that’s what we’re here to do.”

These are the words Rolande Lauture, owner of Precious Hands Care Service, used to describe the business that was an answer to a calling placed on her life.

In August 2020, Rolande felt God was urging her to open her own home care business. At first, she was hesitant – everything about the year 2020 was fraught with uncertainty, and she already had a career.

But, always willing to be faithful, she responded by telling God that if this was something He wanted her to do, then He had to show her the way, and she would follow. Rolande applied for a business permit from Georgia in 2020 and completed the process on her own, eventually leaving her full-time job to pursue this business.

“God said, ‘Trust Me, step by step, and I will lead you,’” said Rolande, who moved to Georgia from Haiti when she was thirty-five years old.

“Even now, when I am not sure what to do, I call on the name of God and He always directs me.”

So, what does answering a call from God look like? For Rolande, it meant opening up a business centered on giving seniors and homebound people the guaranteed care and compassion they needed. From a young age, she had felt drawn to help people who could not help themselves.

Precious Hands Home Care Services continues to reflect that desire as they work to create a relationship with each client and family she helps.

The process is simple: if you or a loved one need nursing care, personal home care, or companionship, you give the team at Precious Hands Home Care Services a call. They will set up a time to meet with you and learn more about what you need. Once you decide to move forward, a nurse will conduct a physical assessment to determine the best care level

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

for you. From there, services begin as often as you need them. Some clients prefer a set schedule and time; others keep their services more flexible to suit their needs. Whatever your day looks like, the Precious Hands Home Care Services team can make it work. Their only requirement is that clients receive at least four hours of services per scheduled shift in the best way for you and your needs.

And when this team says they are available, they really mean it. Care is offered twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

During a last-minute emergency, a care team member is usually able to get to a client within four hours or less, meaning you won’t have to wait days to receive care if your other options have fallen through.

In Rolande’s mind, this is all part and parcel of treating others the way you would want your own loved ones to be treated.

“We want to provide each client the best care with love and compassion because it’s what we are in this world to do,” said Rolande. “We care for them like they were our own family.”

Continued on page 9

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Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

— An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/Walton area.

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

Entire contents copyright 2023 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Publisher/Owner Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com

Photography Emil Powella Photography

Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultz.com

Distribution Coordinator Holly Cooks

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultz.com

Cover Story Feature Writer Kristen Eleveld

IN THIS ISSUE

Feature Writers Victoria R. Crosby Tana Poncsak Traci Sanders

Contributing Writers Jane Bishop Jason A. Black Bill Crane Terie Hansen Tanisha Turner Pam Walker

5 On the Cover: Finding the Right Care with Precious Hands Home Care Services 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 8 Get Ready for Soups and Ciders – It’s Officially Fall!

8 Pet Perch: Exercise? Or Over Excitement?

9 Holiday Travelers are Booking Earlier This Year 10 Legal Talk: Got Arrested?

10 Community Spotlight: Gwinnett Technical College’s Automotive Technology Program 13 Expert Tips to Organize Your Home for Fall 13 Learning Lessons: Helping Young Children Understand Differences 14 One Man’s Opinion: Georgia to Get Quite a Kick 14 Meet GCAA: New Academy Helps Students Re-Engage in Learning 15 SOMEDAY… A Word for Your Day 15 Seen in Gwinnett: Emil’s Photo of the Month 17 One Man’s Opinion: Knowing When it’s Time to Go Home 17 Getting to Know Quinn Windows 19 Celebrating Fifty Years of the Georgia Film Office 21 Moms Helping Moms: MESH moms Builds Connection and Community 21 Partnering Up with the Snellville Police Department 22 One on One with Atlanta Botanical Gardens 22 Career Corner: How to Attract the Best Candidates for Your Business 23 Travel Tales: Visit Saudia Arabia?

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From the Publisher:

Ryan’s Remarks

By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanTSauers

@RyanTSauers

Wow, it is October and fall is here.

Can you believe it? That means we are also in the final quarter of 2023, and the holidays will be here before we know it.

The holidays always tend to bring times of busyness and stress. With that in mind, I have written an article that I hope can help all of us.

In our fast-paced world, getting caught up in the whirlwind of social media updates, texts, calls, invitations, and constant notifications is easy. The Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO) has become a prevalent concern, leaving many of us feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and perpetually dissatisfied. But don’t worry, because today we’re going to discuss ways to overcome FOMO and embrace the present moment.

Let me explain. FOMO is that nagging feeling that you’re missing out on something better, more exciting, or more critical happening elsewhere. It can be triggered by seeing friends’ posts about their vacations, parties, or achievements, or simply by the relentless stream of information vying for your attention. But here’s the bottom line: FOMO is a construct of our minds. It is not real, and it’s time to regain control over it. So how do we do that?

First, we need to define our priorities. What is our “WHY” and what truly matters to us in life? So, the first step in conquering FOMO is to clarify our values and priorities. What are our long-term goals and dreams? If we knew we had one more day to live, would we be worried about missing out on something? By having a clear vision of what’s essential, we can filter out distractions and focus on what aligns with our values. And always ask yourself, is this something that will make any difference ten years from now?

Second, we must limit social media time. Social media platforms are fantastic for sharing information but are a breeding ground for FOMO. Such platforms make it easy to focus on things that don’t matter and where we can waste a lot of time. They are also a place where we can get caught up in comparing our lives with other’s lives. So, I recommend we take control of our digital life by setting specific times to check our accounts. Reducing our screen time helps alleviate FOMO and improves our overall mental well-being. I say that being “constantly connected” Continued on page 11

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Get Ready for Soups and Ciders – It’s Officially Fall!

By Tana Poncsak Change is good, right? Many say change is inevitable. And when the seasons change, the weather isn’t the only thing that changes. You may also notice a difference in food, clothing, routines, and activities. And after the hot days of summer, fall is often a welcomed change!

Here are some easy things you can do to embrace the fall season.

Food When it comes to food, fall is generally the season to pull out the recipes for warm, hearty soups and stews, and to replace your frozen concoctions with warm teas and hot apple cider.

Relish in the taste of seasonal vegetables and enjoy the robust flavors of roasted acorn and butternut squash. And don’t forget the pumpkin!

For the home Make some small changes to the decor in your home to celebrate the season. Change out your sofa pillows with some that have fall colors or themes.

Add a fall wreath to your front door.

Replace summer smelling candles for some with autumn fragrances such as apples and cinnamon. Or fill your home with the smell of autumn with a big pot of hot apple cider simmering on the stove.

Activities With the cooler temperatures, people still want to get outside and enjoy

the cooler weather. Fun fall activities include: Apple picking – We’re lucky in that apple picking is just a short drive away. And with those apples, you can bake my grandmother’s Apple Cake – a family favorite.* Take in a nearby festival or chili cook off – Many metro areas hold festivals to celebrate the community and welcome the season.

It won’t be long before the greenery of summer will give way to the beautiful colors of fall. Take a hike or a drive and enjoy the scenery.

And for those sports fans, there’s always plenty of football!

Happy fall y’all!

*Nanny’s Apple Cake

Ingredients: 2 eggs 1 1/4 cup vegetable oil 3 cups all-purpose flour 3 cups chopped apples 1 cups sugar 1 cup brown sugar 2 tsp vanilla flavoring 1/4 tsp salt 1 tsp cinnamon 1 tsp baking soda 1 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Beat eggs, add sugar, vanilla flavoring, and oil. Beat three minutes Mix all dry ingredients together Mix ingredients together -- the dry and the egg, sugar, and oil mixture Add the chopped apples, then add chopped pecans - mix all ingredients thoroughly Pour into a greased Bundt pan or cake pan Bake at 350 degrees for one hour and 15 minutes or until cooked through Top with a dusting of powdered sugar Serve topped with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

Pet Perch: Exercise? Or Over Excitement?

By Terie Hansen While there is no doubt that dogs need exercise, many dog owners turn to running and racing around in a yard or a park as the only form of exercise their dog gets. The problem is that if the only interactions you have with your dog are of high excitement, that is what you are patterning – a dog whose mind doesn’t know how to settle down; a dog that is always looking for the next high-energy engagement activity; a dog that typically demands attention from you on a pretty consistent basis.

On the other hand, training burns a ton of energy, both physical and mental, and has many positive side effects such as creating a calm, relaxed state of mind. Your dog learns to focus. Your dog is learning valuable commands. Your dog has your undivided attention, so it is less likely to demand your attention at other times during the day.

Continued on page 16

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Holiday Travelers are Booking Earlier This Year

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff Although the summer travel season just ended, Georgians are already beginning to lock in their holiday travel plans. In fact, according to a new AAA survey, 69% of residents are already planning to take a holiday vacation. More than half of them (55%) booked holiday plans earlier this year due to higher travel prices. Three-fifths of holiday travelers (61%) say they plan at least one flight during the holiday season.

“Whether you plan to book a flight, cruise, or visit a theme park, it’s best to get ahead of the holiday rush and finalize your plans now,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA – The Auto Club Group.

“This will help ensure you get the itinerary you want at a competitive price. While it’s possible that those who wait until the last minute could catch a lower rate, their preferred options may already be gone.”

Thanksgiving Travel Two-thirds of Georgia travelers (66%) are planning a trip with at least one overnight stay for Thanksgiving. The busiest travel days will be Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday. Consider booking a flight on Sunday or Monday before Thanksgiving and Saturday after the holiday. Airports should be less busy, and flights should have more availability.

Christmas Travel The timing is spread out for Georgians planning a Christmas trip.

Only 10% have already finalized plans, as a fifth waited until September (20%), with more waiting until October (38%) and November (19%) to book. Regardless of what date Christmas falls on, most travelers depart two to four days before the holiday. Since Christmas Day falls on a Monday this year, travelers should expect the busiest days at the airport to be Friday and Saturday before the holiday.

AAA’s Advice for Booking a Flight • Book early for the best combination of availability and price. Most travelers want to skip layovers and get right to their destination.

That means nonstop flights will fill up fast, especially those going

cross-country and internationally.

• Book a direct flight that leaves early in the morning. Afternoon and evening flights are more susceptible to delays/cancellations due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. Connecting flights multiplies the risk of something going wrong.

• Consider traveling a day or two earlier than planned. Even if you face delays, you are still likely to arrive on time.

• If your flight has connections, build between flights in a couple of hours. This way, if your first flight is delayed, you are less likely to miss your second one.

Flight Concerns One-third of Georgians (34%) say they are less likely to fly this year because they’re concerned about flight delays and cancellations. AAA urges travelers to consider travel insurance, which provides financial compensation if your flight is affected by covered reasons like severe winter weather, which can ruin your plans.

“Given recent challenges with air travel, we are seeing more and more passengers opt for travel insurance,” Haas said. “Travel Insurance is such a valuable resource for air travelers because it provides financial benefits for lost or delayed luggage, flight cancellations, and flight delays of as little as three hours.”

More People are Gifting Experiences Instead of Presents AAA travel advisors say they’re seeing more people gift travel experiences to loved ones instead of presents. That means those people are already thinking about the holidays. “I just booked travel for one family who’s surprising their children on Christmas morning with a trip to Disney World, leaving later that same day! That family was sure to book early to get exactly what they wanted,” said Cady DeBlois, a travel advisor for AAA. YOLO (You Only Live Once) is Replacing Bucket Lists After three years of a pandemic, many travelers are tackling their bucket lists now! “I’ve had travelers tell me, ‘I don’t know what my health will be in five or ten years, let’s go abroad this year,’” said Jodi Abata, AAA travel advisor, who frequently books international trips for members. “There seems to be a sense of adventure from more people now.

They don’t want to delay travel any longer.”

Europe, Cruises, and Theme Parks Sell Out in Advance European travel is booming this year, and the holidays will be no exception. AAA travel advisors say touring Christmas markets in Europe is extremely popular, and itineraries sell out in advance. River cruises are also in high demand during the holidays, along with Caribbean cruises.

Theme parks are a holiday favorite among families with kids when students are on winter break. DeBlois added, “I’ve already booked theme park vacations for Christmas 2024! That’s how eager many families are to get their holiday plans on the books.”

More information at AAA.com, or follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Precious Hands Home Care Services Cont’ d from page 5 Rolande and her team work hard to cater to each client’s individual needs. There is no one-size-fits-all philosophy to be found here. They work with clients as much as they can on everything from scheduling to the needed level of care.

“Each time you have the opportunity to impact someone’s life, it gives you a sense of fulfilling your purpose on earth,” said Rolande. “It’s a personal fulfillment and it’s also my calling to help and to put a smile on the face of the seniors and medically frail community.”

If you want to learn more about how these services can help you, give them a call at 770-837-8569 or head to their website and fill out their online form. Someone will be back with you in twenty-four hours to discuss your needs.

Rolande said it best: “We are passionate about the care we offer – Jesus loves everybody, so that’s what we’re here to do.”

More information at precioushandscare.com/contacts/

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

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Legal Talk: Got Arrested?

Jason A. Black, Esq, Partner, Weinstein & Black Have you ever been arrested?

It has been my experience as a former law enforcement officer and now as a criminal defense lawyer that many people are lost when it comes to knowing what to do immediately after someone is arrested. The most questions I answer are: What are the charges?

Has the person been booked into the jail? Is there a bond?

When someone you know is arrested, there is a process that must occur for one to be able to be released from custody. This process requires the person to be transported to the jail, searched, and booked in on the charges that he or she may be facing. While that seems simple, the next part is where most people get lost. Depending

Community Spotlight: Gwinnett Technical College’s Automotive Technology Program

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff Gwinnett Technical College’s Automotive Technology program has been approved by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) for a five-year accreditation. This accreditation assures students receive a quality education in automotive technology which is current with emerging technologies and requirements in the automotive industry. In addition, the accreditation assures potential employers that graduates have completed the program and have the ability and knowledge to make immediate contributions to their organization.

Gwinnett Tech is one of eleven public colleges in Georgia to hold this level of certification. “The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence is recognized throughout North America and Canada for industry-leading technician training and certification,” states Automotive Technology Program Director Bob Baumann. “Our instructors are all Master ASE certified, which demonstrates our exceptional automotive knowledge and experience. Becoming an ASE Education

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on the charges, he or she may be afforded a preset bond and be eligible to be bonded out immediately. For the more severe crimes, including family violence and violent felonies, the person must go before a judge to determine whether bond is appropriate.

So, how do you navigate this process? The following are some tips and suggestions to best help your friend or loved one.

• Check the jail’s website. Sheriff’s offices post current inmate lists showing the pending charges and bond amounts. If it does not show the bond amount, you can always call and inquire the status/amount.

• If there is a bond set, do you do a property bond or a cash bond, or do you use a bondsman? u Property Bond: you put your property up as collateral. u Cash bond: pay the full amount of the bond in cash. u Bondsman: pay a percentage of the bond (this is nonrefundable to you) • If there is no bond, you will need to seek legal counsel.

Some charges require a Superior Court Judge to set the bond in the state of Georgia and is only triggered by a Motion for Bond.

The key here is understanding that this process is sometimes lengthy, so have patience. It is always best to seek the help of a lawyer in criminal actions, if possible.

Disclaimer: This is not intended as legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Jason Black is a Partner at the law firm of Weinstein & Black. More information at www.wblegal.net or call (404) 228-2629.

Foundation Accredited program is a long and rigorous process that is difficult to achieve. Being ASE accredited ensures our students receive the most up-to-date and relevant automotive education. This gives our students the best opportunity to enter the automotive industry and enjoy a long successful career.”

Dr. D. Glen Cannon, president, states, “The automotive industry is consistently growing and looking for a highly skilled and trained workforce. Here at Gwinnett Tech, we are dedicated to providing our students with a quality education that will allow them to excel in the automotive industry. This accreditation will help students feel confident and assured they will be workforce ready upon program completion.”

More information at GwinnettTech.edu or call 770-962-7580.

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Ryan’s Remarks Continued from page 7 will drain the life out of all of us. So be purposeful, deliberate, and intentional with your time.

Third, we must cultivate mindfulness in our lives. Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment. So, we must engage in activities encouraging mindfulness, such as meditation, yoga, prayer, or simply walking in nature. These practices can help us appreciate the beauty of the present and reduce the anxiety associated with FOMO. Fourth, we should focus on quality over quantity. Remember that the quality of our experiences matters more than the quantity. So, my advice is instead of trying to attend every event or accept every invitation, focus on the activities and relationships that bring genuine joy and fulfillment to our lives. In addition, we must live with gratitude and contentment. We must shift our mindset from scarcity to abundance by practicing grati-

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

tude. I suggest we make a daily habit of listing the things we are thankful for. This will help us remember how much we have to be thankful for and decrease feelings of FOMO. Finally, it is important to disconnect to reconnect. We should take occasional digital detoxes to fully reconnect with the real world and the people around us. Engage in meaningful conversations, enjoy face-toface interactions, and savor the moments from which technology often distracts us.

The fear of missing out is a common modern-day struggle, but it doesn’t have to control our lives. By defining our priorities, limiting screen time, practicing mindfulness, and embracing gratitude, we can learn to appreciate the present moment and live a more fulfilling life.

Remember, life is happening right now, and it’s beautiful in its own unique way. Life is a present. Life is the present. Life is being present.

Thank you as always for your support as we work to make a difference in lives. And also, and as always…thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!

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Expert Tips to Organize Your Home for Fall

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff From the walk-in closet to the kitchen pantry, catch-all spots make all the difference in daily routines – but only if they’re kept neat. Family organizing expert Jessica Litman, also known as “The Organized Mama,” is on a mission to help families declutter and stay organized. She’s sharing her pro tips for getting your home in shape for this busy time of year.

Clear Away Cabinet Clutter: ‘Tis the season for autumn chili, stew, and other comfort foods. That means it’s also time to put your essential slow cookers and pans where you can reach them so that food prep will be hassle-free. “When the weather starts to cool, I swap out summer cookware for winter bakeware,” says Litman. “I put the grilling items in the back of the cabinet and pull the turkey roaster and baking dishes to the front.”

For added storage, Litman recommends using a shelf rack or vertical organizer to keep cutting boards and pie pans easily accessible.

Prep the Pantry: Create a system that gives grab-and-go snacks and cooking necessities a home. This will help keep the kitchen tidy amid busy work and school schedules. “Do a pantry cleanout,” Litman says.

“Remove everything from the area and wipe down the shelves. Take the canned goods you didn’t eat and donate them to a local food bank.”

Use a combination shelf liner and new containers to restore order to the space. Measure the shelves, cut the liner to length, and then lay it flat.

The shelf liner is durable, waterproof, and designed to keep surfaces dry, while making them easy to wipe clean. Use the measurements to determine what size bins will best fit the area. Store crackers, cereal, oats, and

Learning Lessons: Helping Young Children Understand Differences

By Tanisha Turner Does it ever seem like “why?” is your child’s favorite word? It’s completely natural for children to ask a lot of questions, and young children are particularly curious about differences – why another child’s skin is lighter or darker than their own, or why some people speak another language. As children notice these differences, talking openly about them and encouraging acceptance will help them develop an appreciation and respect for others.

Young children learn about differences through a two-step process. First, they must learn to recognize the traits and customs that make them unique. Then, with a little guidance, children will be able to recognize and embrace what makes others special. Following are five at-home activities to help children understand and appreciate differences.

• Share Your Family History. Show pictures of family members and talk about each person. Children love and remember stories, so share a favorite story or something you remember about each person. This builds your child’s awareness of family history and culture.

• Create a Self-Portrait. An art project is a fun way to help children

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pasta in clear labeled containers, and put spices and seasonings in a slim organizer. “Set up items similarly to grocery store shelves by placing like items together,” Litman suggests. “When you do this, it’s like you are shopping in your pantry instead of hunting for things.”

Out with the Old: Before pulling out your fall wardrobe, declutter the piles of “stuff” from the closet. This will make your space seem more extensive and more organized. “Remove clothes from this past season,” Litman recommends. “Look through each garment. If you didn’t wear it, donate, toss, or sell it.” Now that there is more room, hang an over-the-door shoe rack for rain boots and work shoes and use a closet organizer to store accessories, such as belts, purses, and scarves. Litman also recommends dry cleaning winter jackets now, so they’re ready to wear when cold weather comes.

Find Balance in the Bathroom: Whether it’s the primary bath or the kids’ washroom, make the most of your space by organizing everything into different categories, like towels and haircare. Once everything is grouped, you can decide what will be kept based on the available areas.

Use a tray on the counter and bins in pullout drawers.

Litman says to wipe and line surfaces, especially under the sink, before putting essentials away. Antimicrobial agents inhibit mold and mildew growth to protect the liner and will catch makeup smudges and water spills to give the area an extra clean feeling. She also recommends waiting until after the organizing process to buy bins and caddies so you know exactly what you need. Once these organizing projects are complete, your home will be ready for all the fun fall festivities and family gatherings. (StatePoint) understand their unique traits. As you point out different physical features, like hair length and eye color, ask your child to draw him or herself accordingly. Afterward, ask your child to draw his or her best friend or a family member, asking similar questions about the person’s appearance. Have your child name a few similarities and differences between the two drawings.

• Listen to Music. Play music from your family’s country of origin or your region of the United States, and share favorite songs you sang as a child. Then play music from other cultures or parts of the country and ask your child to identify the similarities and differences.

• Read a Book. Reading to children is one of the best ways to introduce them to people of different origins worldwide. Characters and storylines are great starting points for discussions on diversity, so look for books that have characters that your child can identify with, even though they may have different appearances or customs. Some suggestions include It’s Okay to Be Different by Todd Parr (ages 4-7) and The Crayon Box That Talked by Shane Derolf (ages 4-7).

• Think Outside the Box. Look for opportunities for your child to interact with children from different countries and cultures. Visit museums, festivals, ethnic restaurants, and other places that will help your child learn about various customs and cultures firsthand.

One of the best ways to help young children understand and embrace all forms of diversity is to speak openly and honestly about the differences between people. When your child points out someone who is different or as you’re doing the above activities together, don’t shy away from the topic and remind him or her that appearances have nothing to do with what’s on the inside. With a little guidance, your preschooler will grow into a kind, accepting person who understands that diversity makes the world a better place.

Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway.

More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com or 770-5130066

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One Man’s Opinion: Georgia to Get Quite a Kick

By Bill Crane In 1972, the then-United States Olympic Committee (USOC) relocated its headquarters from New York City to Colorado Springs, Colorado. In the following decades, twenty-five amateur sports federations and training programs (each privately financed) also relocated their athletic training programs, athletes, and training staff to Colorado Springs.

In 1978, a federal statute, the Ted Stevens Olympic and Amateur Sports act, was enacted, creating a federally chartered nonprofit corporation that does not receive federal government financial support (other than for a select set of Paralympic military programs). The renamed United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee (USOPC) received exclusive rights to use and authorize the use of all Olympic-related images, marks, and trademarks. The USOPC then licenses those rights to sponsors and selected manufacturers as their primary revenue source, along with television broadcast rights to telecast the Winter and Summer Olympic Games every four years and related national and international trial competitions that precede each Olympic and Paralympic Games. Most other countries in the world, all of the Eastern Bloc, and our major sports competitors are funded by their governments, in all or part, with gifted athletes often used as props or elements of propaganda campaigns between Olympic Games.

During the late 60s and early 70s, the National Professional Soccer League, and later the North American Soccer League, were attempting to launch a national professional soccer league across America. The Atlanta Chiefs were Georgia and the southeast’s entry in that league, including a season in 1973 as the Atlanta Apollos. Metro Atlanta and Georgia more successfully launched soccer as an amateur youth sport at the time,

which continues growing to this day. I played on YMCA and AAA high school soccer teams from early elementary through high school. I met many of the Atlanta Chiefs, attended a few of their player training camps, and even met global soccer star Pelé at an exhibition game. Those years of play instigated my soccer fandom, which lasts through today.

Several other attempts at a national professional soccer league came and went until Major League Soccer (MLS) established a twenty-nineteam league (twenty-six in the U.S. and three in Canada). The MLS is a men’s professional soccer league sanctioned by the United States Soccer Federation (USSF) and headquartered in Midtown Manhattan, not too far from the headquarters of Major League Baseball and the NFL. The league and MLS team owners operate under a shared revenue model, and all teams have a salary cap on their rosters.

Many youth soccer players from earlier decades are also continually fueling that fan base for the sport across the nation. Following that earlier example by the USOC relocating from New York to Colorado Springs, the headquarters of the USSF will be relocating from Chicago to Atlanta, thanks in large measure to a $50-million pledge and gift from Arthur Blank.

U.S. Soccer plans to construct the nation’s first ever purpose-built and designated National Training Center for soccer, to be utilized by all twenty-seven of U.S. Soccer’s National Teams, as well as additional facilities for U.S. Soccer’s nine Extended National Teams (ENTs), including teams with athletes who have Cerebral Palsy, the Deaf and Power Soccer National Teams, and including locker rooms and training facilities designed to maximize accessibility for those players.

In 2026, Atlanta and the Mercedes-Benz Stadium will play host to the FIFA World Cup Soccer Championship. The World Cup has a larger fan base and typically draws more international visitors than the Olympic Games. Though foreign-born players, mainly from Latin America and Europe, continue to fill the rosters of most MLS teams, often identified as the most skilled players, the U.S. has continually been upgrading the caliber of play and talent of our home-grown stock. Atlanta United operates a farm team system and a second franchise, frequently including a higher percentage of native-born American players. These new stateof-the-art U.S.-based training facilities coming to Atlanta should only expand the number and depth of those American players.

The USSF headquarters and training center will require a large swath of land, leaning more towards a suburban or ex-urban site with interstate and quick airport access. The economic boon will later be measured in Continued on page 22

The program began in October 2022 at a temporary location. The ribbon-cutting marks the official opening of the new, permanent campus. Among the students who have found their learning home at GCAA is Shamyiah Lewis, who spoke at the event. Shamyiah moved to Georgia from New York

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff halfway through her senior year. She felt out of place As the 2023-24 school year begins, in a traditional high school, and decided to drop out. students confronted with challenges Then she discovered Gwinnett County Acceleration that have sidetracked their educational Academies and hit her stride. aspirations have a new opportunity to “At first I was a bit nervous,” said Shamyiah, who earn their diplomas through a flexible, recently completed her diploma requirements and is personalized course of study. planning to study filmmaking in college. “But the On Tuesday, September 26, a ribteachers, they were really welcoming and they helped bon-cutting ceremony was held to introout a lot and I was able to get real comfortable.” duce Gwinnett County Acceleration “We are so proud of all that Shamyiah and her Academies (GCAA), which is working classmates are accomplishing,” says GCAA Director in partnership with the public school Hashima Carothers, a former college basketball standdistrict to offer a flexible, personalized out who emphasizes a team approach to education. curriculum to students who did not “We are looking forward to other students joining her succeed in traditional schools. The at our new campus. We are so grateful for the support event featured Gwinnett County Public Schools Superintendent: Dr. of Dr. Watts and his colleagues in helping us to make these young peoCalvin Watts, GCAA educators, and their students. ple’s dreams a reality.”

“We are so excited to work with Dr. Watts and his colleagues to The Gwinnett school is part of a growing nationwide network of provide an option for young people who need a non-traditional path Acceleration Academies that operates campuses in Florida, Georgia, to their high school diploma and the brighter future it can bring,” said South Carolina, Texas, Kansas, Nevada, and Washington State. The Executive Vice President and Co-Founder of Acceleration Academies, academies re-engage students who have struggled in traditional schools Mark Graves. “As our growing number of graduates can attest, having for a variety of reasons, including the need to work full-time or care for the chance to pursue a personalized path to graduation enables young young children; the need for more one-on-one attention; or a desire to people to, as our motto says, #OwnYourSuccess.”

Continued on page 22 PAGE 14 Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

Meet GCAA: New Academy Helps Students Re-Engage in Learning

SOMEDAY… A Word for Your Day

By Jane Bishop We all have a Someday. Often, the word has infiltrated our vocabulary to the point the brain processes it as an actual future date. When I polled a group of friends to complete the sentence “Someday I will…” responses included, “…start exercising; get more organized; be able to do what I want to do; take a trip to Alaska; organize my family pictures.” This demonstrates they each have a Someday.

Check your calendar. Where is Someday? Whether you prefer to plan every part of your day or choose to go with the flow, someday will not show up. Someday is an unspecified time in the future, so it is not on any calendar. Yet, it occupies valuable brain space in our thinking.

Someday consumes energy without producing tangible results. It keeps us in neutral, unable to move in any direction, and may even hinder us from being responsible. Someday also fuels procrastination. What is the cost of continually waiting for Someday? It may cost better health, realized dreams, clarity, contentment, and living4ward.

It is possible to remove the Someday embedded in our vocabulary and thinking and how we view it as an actual future date. This requires

Seen in Gwinnett Emil’s Photo of the Month

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

interrupting the neural pathway (i.e., habit) that has been established. One technique to begin the interruption is to practice “start and replace.”

Start with a different “day” word: Monday, Tuesday, today, etc., and replace Someday with that word. For example, I will schedule time on Thursday to organize my family pictures. That simple replacement begins to interrupt the default of Someday and replace it with placing the thought, idea, or dream on the calendar, so it becomes a reality while beginning to create a new habit. Is it really that simple? Yes. However, for it to become embedded as the new neural pathway, it takes time.

In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear defines habits as the “small decisions you make and actions you perform every day.”

He went on to share about research from Duke University where they found that habits make up about 40% of our daily behavior, adding that many of these “happen in our unconscious brain because we repeated them enough to happen without conscious thought.” Practicing start and replace for thirty days will interrupt the current habit of Someday. However, it must be practiced for a minimum of ninety days for the new habit to become part of your unconscious thoughts.

Harvard-trained scientist Dr. David Bach supports this. In his research on rewiring the brain, he found that a process had to be repeated at least two hundred times to interrupt the pattern and direct it to a new pathway.

As you practice start and repeat consistently and develop a new habit, enjoy the significant lessons and simple pleasures you will experience.

More information at www.janebishoplive.com

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Pet Perch Continued from page 8 Your dog views you as the leader, which can significantly reduce and/ or eliminate anxiety, stress, fear, and other negative states of mind and behaviors. All of which, in the long run, equal a well-trained dog!

Moreover, if you’re going to spend time with your dog, what is the difference if you spend fifteen to twenty minutes throwing a ball versus fifteen to twenty minutes training? Time is time, right? Simply doing sit drills burns both mental energy (because your dog needs to focus) and physical energy (because your dog is doing squats) and will tire your dog out. Down drills are push-ups for your dog. Recalls (coming when called) has your dog running back and forth, but in a controlled manner. Kennel drills also include push-ups because you will teach your dog to enter their kennel and lie down. Even duration commands

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such as Down and Place burn a tremendous amount of mental energy as your dog practices impulse control while holding those commands.

All drills are done with a leash until your dog consistently follow commands without engaging the leash. You can even use their food (not treats) as a reward. Doing these simple drills will burn tons of energy and sharpen your dog’s obedience skills. In a couple of weeks, you will be rewarded with a much calmer, better behaved dog.

I am not saying don’t play with your dog. I am saying, even if you did 50-50, or better yet, one out of every four interactions with your dog, you played and the other three you trained. The outcome would be a tremendous difference in your dog’s overall behavior, equaling an amazing difference in your relationship with your dog.

Terie Hansen is the Owner of Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care.

More information at www.gooddogcoaching.com

Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

One Man’s Opinion: Knowing When it’s Time to Go Home

By Bill Crane I first had the pleasure of meeting U.S. Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky in Scottsdale, Arizona, roughly six months into his first term. McConnell was energetic, vibrant, quick-witted, and thoughtful in his public policy position statements.

McConnell is now the U.S. Senate Minority Leader and has led the GOP Senate Caucus since 2007. While still a brilliant political strategist and tactician, the Senator is clearly missing a step after a fall and reasonably severe concussion that resulted this spring. Though given a conditional clean bill of health by the U.S. Senate physician, McConnell is pale, appears fragile, speaks slowly, and in a softer timber. In addition to the two highly documented “freeze” moments, some of his public speaking has occasionally been non-sensical.

That said, Mitch McConnell is a friend, a fraternity brother of mine from another school, and I have had the opportunity to have supper a few times with the Senator and his wife, Elaine Chao, a former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and former Director of the U.S. Peace Corps. Love or loathe their politics, this power couple is devoted to our nation, and both are decades-long public servants.

Power and fame are two very highly addictive as well as fleeting circumstances in life for some. Letting go of either voluntarily is challeng-

Getting to Know Quinn Windows

By Kristen Eleveld Every home needs quality windows that not only have the right look, but also offer protection from weather without wearing down too quickly. For many people, figuring out which window is the best for them while staying within their budget may seem like an impossible task.

That’s why those in the Tucker and surrounding areas are turning to the experts at Quinn Windows to meet their needs with quality service.

Started in 1980 by Charles Quinn, Quinn Windows has continued to become a household name for many in the community as they offer their knowledge in windows and doors to every client in need. Today, Quinn Windows is owned and operated

by Conor Quinn, who began learning his family’s trade at an early age.

Starting as a window installer, Conor now leads the team in working with clients to help them find what they are looking for.

“Our goal is to tell clients exactly what we think they need,” said Conor. “We won’t try to upsell you for profit. We always want your windows and doors to be the right fit for your home.”

While the word “windows” is in the business name, Quinn Windows can also help you replace your doors and shutters. Just tell them what you want to work on and they can help you discover what you need. Whether you are looking to upgrade your out-of-date windows or are looking for a fresh new look for your front door, Quinn Windows can help you find exactly what you need.

The process is simple: once you decide to replace or update your windows or doors, just reach out to the team at Quinn Windows. True

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

ing, and perhaps even harder for those who become accustomed to that life is knowing when it is time to go home.

I started this column discussing Senator McConnell, though the effective service warranty and date of expiration on President Joe Biden has been blinking red hot for well over a year now. Yet McConnell (81) and Biden (80) appear as young pups next to Senator Charles Grassley (R-Iowa) at 89. Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) is 83 and announced that she will again be seeking re-election as a member of the House Democratic Caucus in 2024.

I don’t believe in term limits, and there is almost no place where more value is placed on seniority than on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. Still, when senior moments become daily or weekly occurrences, it also becomes time for self-evaluation and medical assessment.

Congressional staff often tend to be closest, even making policy decisions in the White House or on the Hill for aging and failing elected officials. But that is NOT representative democracy. There is some incredible staff in government at all levels, but staff members’ desire to maintain their own power and position does not justify propping up public servants who also endanger their own health by staying past their effective expiration dates. No matter how much coddling you might receive from staff and some party officials, public life is no picnic. The hours are long, and the schedules are demanding.

Here in Georgia, Senator Johnny Isakson resigned when his Parkinson’s Disease had too fully compromised his ability to serve. And for several years after his diagnosis, he put in ten miles every day on a treadmill. Senator Saxby Chambliss, after receiving a cancer diagnosis, decided not to seek re-election and to focus on his family and remaining time, which thankfully has likely been years more now due to stepping back to that lighter and less demanding lifestyle and schedule.

I am not suggesting that we codify age limits, particularly as modern medicine and new treatments slow, or in some cases, roll back the clock advancing. But as with periodic tests for the re-issuance of a driver’s license primarily about keeping our roadways safe, we need to consider basic fitness and competency tests for continuing service after a benchmark birthday, such as 75.

Continued on page 19 to their commitment to excellence, nearly all of the staff at Quinn Windows has experience working on an installation team, meaning they can advise you with next steps using their industry knowledge and experience. From there, it’s just a matter of creating a plan. A Quinn Windows team member will reach out to you with a timeline and quote to help you make the decision that’s best for your home.

One important thing to Conor and his team is that this process is meant to be a no-pressure situation.

While the team is always standing ready to help, they do not want anyone to rush into their decisions, and they encourage their clients to take their time in considering how they want to proceed.

“We’re a family business, but we can provide a high level of service,” said Conor. “We are able to give a more personal touch to every project.”

If you have been thinking of upgrading or updating your windows, doors, or shutters, there is no time like the present. You can schedule a consult with Quinn Windows today to talk with their experts about which of their many products and services will best suit your needs.

Not sure what you want? No problem. Quinn Windows has a showroom with over sixty doors and windows on display, and anyone is welcome to browse the options available. From there, all you have to do is let the team do what they do best. Once you approve the quote they send, they will order the materials and set up a time to complete the installation. It’s quick and easy, and soon you will be enjoying a much needed update to the windows and doors of your home.

Give Quinn Windows a call today at 770-939-5634 to set up your installation consult.

More information at www.quinnwindows.biz

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Celebrating Fifty Years of the Georgia Film Office

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff As the State of Georgia celebrates fifty years of the Georgia Film Office, Governor Brian P. Kemp recently announced another blockbuster year for the film and television industry as productions spent $4.1 billion in Georgia during fiscal year 2023 (FY23). The Georgia Film Office, a strategic office within the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), reported that the State of Georgia hosted 390 productions, represented by 31 feature films, 55 independent films, 241 television and episodic productions, 40 commercials, and 23 music videos, between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023.

“Georgia remains a global leader in film, TV, and streaming productions,” said Governor Kemp.

“Those who benefit most from the significant growth we’ve seen in this industry over the past couple of decades are hardworking Georgians who fill the many behind-the-camera jobs that come with each project. That’s why we’ve worked hard to attract these and other opportunities for those who call the Peach State home.”

Georgia’s thriving entertainment industry continues to welcome exponential infrastructure growth, including new studios and accompanying stage space. According to a recent report out of Los Angeles, Georgia has now surpassed New York as the state with the second-highest amount of soundstage footage in the U.S. and is poised to become No. 1 if the growth continues as projected. Film support service companies, including these soundstage campuses, are not eligible to receive the film tax credit. Spending on facility construction does not qualify for Georgia’s film tax credits. To qualify for that credit, productions must utilize tax-paying Georgia-based vendors.

In FY23, BlueStar Studios continued construction on a new $180 million film and TV production facility in Forest Park. In Douglasville, Great Point Studios’ new facility Lionsgate Atlanta, is investing $200 million to construct a 500,000-square-foot, full-service film studio and modern entertainment complex.

Athena Studios, a $60 million investment in Athens, opened its doors in January with 120,000 square feet of purpose-built space ready for TV and film production. Electric Owl Studios in DeKalb County opened its 140,000-square-foot production facility that is the world’s first groundup LEED Gold-certified studio campus in June, and NBCUniversal signed a long-term partnership with Gray TV, which is constructing more than one million square feet of stage space at Assembly Atlanta in Doraville.

This infrastructure boom is the result of decades of investment in Georgia’s entertainment industry, which started fifty years ago.

Recognizing the success of 1972’s Deliverance, which was filmed in Rabun County in northeast Georgia, former Governor Jimmy Carter established the Georgia Film Office to attract more productions to the state, which would help local economies through hotel nights, spending,

and encouraging tourism.

“The real impacts of the film and television industry in Georgia reach beyond the red carpet, improving the lives of thousands of Georgians and contributing to the state’s overall economy,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Georgia leaders have consistently invested in the state’s long-term success. In creating the Film Office fifty years ago, they realized the significant impact the entertainment industry could have here. Today, this is a Georgia industry with small businesses in communities across the state realizing the return on that investment. We thank Georgia’s leaders for continuing to recognize the value that film and television productions bring to Georgia.”

Georgia-lensed films continued to shine with fans and at the box office. Black Panther: Wakanda Forever became the highest-grossing movie with a female superhero as the lead at the U.S. box office, overtaking female-led superhero films Captain Marvel and Wonder Woman. The success of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever is the latest example of the high-earning films attracted to Georgia. Of the top lifetime-grossing films of all time, Georgia was home to three of the Top 10: Avengers: End Game, Spider-Man: No Way Home, and Avengers: Infinity War. “We talk about the amount spent on a production, but we’ve also seen the enormous impact a project may have years, even decades after it has shot in our state – and that’s nearly impossible to quantify,” said Georgia Film Office Director Film Lee Thomas. “We know that tourists flock to Covington not only because of recent projects like The Vampire Diaries, but also because five episodes of The Dukes of Hazzard were shot there four decades ago. In just a few seasons, The Walking Dead helped transform Senoia from six storefronts to more than 150 small businesses downtown. In Hall County, an enterprising local fishing charter company began offering Ozark tours of the filming locations for more than $300 per person due to high demand and limited space. Beyond the direct spend, it may take years, even decades, to understand the complete economic impact of a project on an area.”

In addition to working with studios and communities to bring productions to Georgia, the Georgia Film Office provides multiple resources for local businesses and talent to list their services to industry decision-makers, such as the Georgia Reel Crew™ database, which is a searchable, online directory of crew and support services; the Georgia Reel Scout™ database of local properties available for filming; certification and a searchable map of Georgia Camera Ready communities; information on open stage space; and other information that links Georgia assets with industry representatives.

Gaming, esports, and other interactive entertainment projects such as mobile games, virtual reality, augmented reality, and console and PC game development are also part of production growth in the state but are not included in the film industry’s direct spend totals.

To view video clips of recent productions’ experiences filming across the state, visit the Georgia Film Office’s YouTube page.

For an overview of some of the productions currently filming in Georgia, visit “Now Filming in Georgia.”

One Man’s Opinion Continued from page 17 I am a big believer in the many values of proven performance and experience, but there comes a time when the best leaders realize it is time to step aside or focus on shaping and building that next leadership team. At least to my knowledge, none of us live or can perform at near-optimum levels in perpetuity. To slightly misquote “The Gambler” song by Kenny Rogers, “You got to know when to hold’em, know when to fold’em, know when to walk away, and know when NOT to run.”

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

Thank you, Senator McConnell, President Biden, and others, for your decades of public service. Please consider making the intelligent choice before a stroke or, possibly worse, make that selection for you. It is time to plan for your successor, organize your affairs, and then take the long road home.

Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane.

More information at www.CSICrane.com

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Moms Helping Moms: MESH moms Builds Connection and Community

By Traci Sanders Ask any mom about the challenges of motherhood, and you’ll hear words like sleep deprivation, stress management, keeping the kids entertained, and more. But one thing that nearly every mom goes through but rarely talks about—whether out of guilt or the fear of being judged—is the feeling of isolation. Being home with little humans who demand your time, attention, and energy daily can be physically and mentally taxing. However, many moms worry they will appear ungrateful, selfish, or weak if they mention needing help or needing more human interaction than what their children provide.

A new organization serving the greater Atlanta area aims to address this challenge and build a supportive community for new mothers.

MESH moms is an independent, secular, in-person group for mothers that launched in July 2023 to connect and empower women during pregnancy and the duration of the early childhood years.

One of their primary goals is to help moms put all those fears, insecurities, and struggles to rest.

The group was founded by two friends, Martina Stellmaszek and Juliana Caspari, who are moms of seven children combined. They’re dedicated to combating the isolation and overwhelm that many new moms experience. “Motherhood is challenging enough; no one should have to go through it alone,” Juliana shared.

Both women are former executives who decided to use their corporate skills and advanced business degrees to create this entrepreneurial venture to help local moms.

“We wanted to provide a safe in-person space, as well as online, where moms could connect, share experiences, and receive guidance,” Juliana explained.

The club is open to and aims to provide a friendly, welcoming environment for mothers from all backgrounds and parenting styles.

MESH moms organizes playgroups based on children’s ages and developmental stages. Workshops on breastfeeding, sleep training, potty training, and postpartum mental health are also offered. Resources such as cooking classes are already on the calendar for next year.

“We believe that by coming together,” Juliana added, “we can create a powerful network that helps women navigate the challenges of motherhood and build lasting friendships along the way.”

Some of the regular meet-up activities include stroller walks, baby hangouts at the park, mobile baby playground meet-ups, luncheons, moms’ nights out, and more. Some are scheduled weekly, and others occur monthly. Seasonal events such as outings to pumpkin patches, annual holiday parties, and kids’ carnivals are also on the calendar.

Since the group is in its infancy and looking to grow, the founders are offering membership for just $1 per month to the first 100 members.

The second 100 members will receive a 50% discount, and the third 100 members will receive a 25% discount.

MESH moms is open to pregnant, foster, or adoptive moms, whether they work or stay home. The online portal even offers a resource to assist moms in acquiring quality child care and gently used baby gear for those in need. A members-only private chat is available for moms to feel safe asking sensitive questions, though no medical advice is administered.

Whether you’re about to embark on your motherhood journey, in the early stages, or in the trenches with the toddler years, MESH moms has a place for you.

More information at www.meshmoms.com

October 2023 Our Town Gwinnett

Partnering Up with the Snellville Police Department

By Kristen Eleveld “We want you to know we’re on your side.” This is what Snellville Police Chief Greg Perry said when asked what message he wanted to send to the Snellville community. Chief Perry, along with his team of officers, has worked tirelessly over the past two years to let the people of Snellville know that the police are not just concerned with safety alone – they want to partner with each citizen of Snellville to create a community that knows it can trust and rely on its officers in every way. That’s why Chief Perry has not stopped taking opportunities to not only reassure the community, but to back up his words with actions all year long.

If you live in Snellville, you already know that the Snellville Police Department prioritizes being an active part of its community, participating in many local events, and inviting residents to learn more about the police department. One favorite event for both the department and the neighborhoods it serves is the Faith & Blue weekend, in which the Snellville Police will partner with local churches and enjoy a barbecue with anyone who wants to take part. The details for this fall event are still in the works, so just keep an eye on the Snellville Police Department Facebook and Instagram accounts to stay up to date!

For the kids in the area, the most anticipated event would likely be Halloween. Aside from the usual joys of dressing up and eating your favorite candy, Chief Perry and his team make the holiday even better by handing out candy to kids in neighborhoods all over the city.

“Giving out candy at Halloween is important to us for two reasons,” said Chief Perry. “One, we love to interact with our community and help the kids enjoy their Halloween. And we also want kids to get to know us and to know that what we want more than anything is for them to be safe.”

Chief Perry and the Snellville Police Department operate on three core tenets: 1) Consistently seek out criminals and others that endanger our community members. This saves lives. 2) Everyone is a leader. Work each day to improve yourself and your team. This creates success and safety. 3) Seek out opportunities to help our community. This builds solid relationships and trust.

With these tenets in mind, the Snellville Police Department has sought to deepen the relationship with its community through one of its most significant resources: education. Community members are invited to join the Citizens Police Academy, a nine-week course that gives participants a chance to learn more about the role of police officers and the challenges facing their community. Firearm safety, motor vehicle traffic enforcement, and DUI investigations are only a few of the topics covered by this course. Once you graduate, you become part of the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association, which works with the community to raise donations and resources that allow the Snellville Police to continue giving back.

At Christmastime, you will likely run into an officer or two shopping at the local Wal-Mart with a child. This is Snellville PD’s “Shop with a Cop” program, which uses donations from the community to fund shopping trips for children in need during the holidays. Officers volunteer to shop with children who have been identified as someone who could benContinued on page 23

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One on One with Atlanta Botanical Gardens

By Victoria R. Crosby As you enter the Atlanta Botanical Garden (ABG), not only do you see beautiful flowers, shrubs, and trees, but different sculptures and works of art that intrigue and delight, with a view of the Atlanta skyline as the backdrop. The exhibits change seasonally, so there is always something new and fun to see as you stroll through the gardens.

The latest exhibit at the Atlanta Botanical Gardens is called Trolls: Save the Humans. The Trolls look a bit scary at first, but these vast sculptures are made from recycled materials.

Inspired by folklore and created

by Danish artist Thomas Dambo, they can be viewed and enjoyed by people of all ages. Dambo gave a recent lecture at the ABG, titled “Trash Trolls and Treasure Hunts,” and signed copies of his book with the same title. The book talks about his adventures and includes photos and poems about his journey in his home city of Copenhagen on his cargo bike, dumpster diving for items to use in his first small installation, and how he eventually gained international recognition as the leading recycling artist in the world.

Each of the six humungous trolls has a name and a different personality, which is recognizable by their facial expressions. The Trolls will travel to other botanical gardens nationwide, but this is their debut appearance.

Like most of our gardens this year, the ABG suffered from a deep freeze at the end of last December. Some plants didn’t make it, and some are very slowly recovering. However, this won’t affect a visitor’s enjoyment of the flourishing plentiful plants that survived.

A Japanese garden within the gardens is a place for quiet reflection and meditation, and there is a beautiful display of lights and music during the Christmas holidays. Orchids are on display inside the Fuqua Orchid Center, with annual special exhibits. The Longleaf Restaurant in ABG offers full-service dining and has excellent reviews.

Membership in ABG has many perks and special events, including discounts at the gift shop, cocktails in the garden, musical events, previews of exhibits, and classes for adults and children. It’s a lovely place

Georgia to Get Quite a Kick Continued from page 14 the hundreds of millions of dollars. And though I have personally been a soccer fan and player since about age eight, the entire state is about to get a big Kick out of this coming soccer wave heading for metro Atlanta and north Georgia. Play ball!

Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane.

More information at www.CSICrane.com

Meet GCAA Continued from page 14

for taking photos of weddings and other special events.

Part of the permanent collection, and one of my favorite features in the garden, is a very large sculpture called Earth Goddess. Her head is covered with different flowers and plants, changing with the seasons.

There are also two large glass sculptures by Dale Chihuly in different parts of the gardens.

The Atlanta Botanical Gardens first opened in 1976, and there are two locations, 1345 Piedmont Avenue, NE, in Atlanta, and 911 Sweetbay Drive, Gainesville, GA., which opened in 2015.

The Gainesville location is smaller, but is a little gem! A recent exhibit featured nine large fiberglass sculptures of Mexican artists, including Frida Kahlo. Ricardo Soltero, an artist from Los Angeles, created these colorful sculptures. They represent Dia de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead, but it is a celebration of life, not death. These celebrations are part of Mexican and Latin American culture and include a celebration of the Monarch butterflies, which migrate to Mexico from Canada and the US every winter.

There is also a wonderful children’s garden and playground, including Fairytale Fridays at 11 a.m., where young children can come dressed as their favorite fairytale characters and participate in a fairytale parade.

More information at www.atlantabg.org

Career Corner: How to Attract the Best Candidates for Your Business

By Our Town Gwinnett Staff As most business owners know, top-notch talent is one of the most valuable assets your enterprise needs to thrive. With one in four U.S. adults currently looking for a new job, the right people are out there; it’s just a matter of connecting with them.

According to CareerBuilder, here’s how to make your company attractive to job seekers and how to leverage tools to find them. One good idea is to make room for growth. The same survey found that when it comes to what’s most important to job seekers, it’s “good salary/benefits and interesting work.” So give potential employees confidence that working for you will allow them to take care of their finances, provide for their families, and do work they are proud of.

Before posting the position, seek industry insights to ensure your compensation package is competitive. Also, ensure that you’re offering a clear path for growth. During the interview process, let candidates know you will invest time and energy in seeing them develop professionally.

“Employers must get creative in their approach to skill development and training to fill the existing skills gap and accelerate promotions,” says Kristin Kelley, chief marketing officer of CareerBuilder.

• Find your purpose: A people-oriented, purpose-driven work culture can help you attract great job candidates and retain employees.

“Companies with a powerful mission who value their employees will stand the test of time. Creating an environment where people can thrive is equally important,” says Kelley.

• Be flexible: If the nature of your business allows for it, consider embracing new technologies that enable you to implement flexible work experiences, such as remote or hybrid work. Giving your employees the option to work from home is a critical benefit that will attract talent, plus it could potentially broaden your pool nationwide or even internationally.

• Turn to easy-to-use hiring platforms: Finding the best fit for a position can be highly labor-intensive and time-consuming. However, hiring software featuring industry-leading technology can make the process smoother and more efficient.

Talent acquisition is just one of a business owner’s many priorities.

With the right mindset, strategies, and tools, you can quickly attract the best candidates for your business and bring them on board. (StatePoint)

accelerate their studies to graduate early and move forward with plans for college, military service, work, or athletic careers.

Acceleration Academies provide a blend of independent online study and in-person academic, social, and emotional support to meet such needs. Like all public school programs, GCAA is free of charge and open to students up to age 21 who want to earn their high school diplomas. Education Week featured the network due to its success in re-engaging students after the Covid pandemic.

More information at Accelerationacademy.org PAGE 22 Become an Advertising Partner: Info@OurTown Gwinnett.com or 678-825-2049

Travel Tales: Visit Saudia Arabia?

By Pam Walker Every August, I attend one of the largest travel shows on earth in Las Vegas.

Vegas is not my favorite place to be during August, but in reality, I never am outside the meeting rooms in the Bellagio and Aria hotels. This year was no different.

Aside from 3,000 travel advisors from all over the world, there are representatives from government tourist offices, hotels, and attractions, as well as folks from all the major cruise lines. Every year they tell us the latest and greatest news of upcoming events and products.

One such player “new to the game” is the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. It was only in 2019 that the Saudi Minister of Interior and Foreign Affairs issued the first tourist visas to visit the Kingdom. It is now the second biggest tourist destination in the Middle East. Obviously, not many US citizens traveled there during the Pandemic, but now the push is on to receive visitors from all over the world.

I have long been fascinated with the history of the Middle East. Not only does it encompass many religions, but there is an amazing network of Nabatean ruins dating from the 3rd Century BC. It wasn’t until the Roman Empire annexed it in AD 106 that the power of this ancient culture ceased to exist. They carved homes and temples into the sandstone, which can be seen today. The most famous ruin to date is Petra in Jordan.

But now there is the Alula area in Saudi! Archaeologists have just

started excavating various places in the Saudi desert, such as the ancient town of Hegra and the ancient oasis in the midst of this desert wasteland.

It is a vast area filled with history and rare rock forms. It is so unique that there are now five deluxe hotel companies that have built hotels there, all blending in with the desert architecture.

In all the Saudi government has spent over $15 billion in structuring this fantastic place, and I, for one, have to go and see the things that they have done. Yes, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is still a conservative Muslim country, but they are letting down their barriers as they want to share their history with the world.

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at pam@ walkeradventures.com

Snellville Police Department Continued from page 21 efit from the program, and they take kids to pick out their favorite items.

If this sounds like a group you want to be part of, there’s more good news – the Snellville Police Department is looking for officers who are passionate about working with their community to make it as safe as possible. Just head to www.snellville.org/police-department to learn more about what it means to be part of the Snellville PD. For Chief Perry, working with excellent officers is what makes his job great. “Their group is the best group by far,” he said. “They truly have hearts of service. It’s an honor to come and work with them and FOR them every day.”

It’s easy to keep up with all the places and events you can hang out with the Snellville Police Department. Just check out their Facebook and Instagram pages to hear all the latest news, including safety tips and important community updates.

“I love the people I work with and the community I serve,” said Chief Perry. “Regardless of your rank, you’re an officer first, and you can impact people’s lives in a positive way.”

More information at https://www.facebook.com/Snellville.Police, or www.snellville.org/police-department

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