SEPTEMBER 2019: (GREEN) Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Monthly Magazine

SEPTEMBER 2019 Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Our Town GWINNETT

Grayson Dacula Loganville Lawrenceville

Up Close with McKinley Community Care, see story on page 5.

13 13 14 18

Road to Recovery: The Quinn House Community Spotlight: The Heart of What Matters Fun on the Farm with Brynn Pennington In Defense of the Modern Teenager

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On the Cover: Caring the McKinley Way: How One Organization is Changing Lives for Local Seniors

By Kristen Eleveld Many families have had to deal with the ensuing complications of caring for an aging or medically frail relative. It can be difficult to know exactly what type of care your loved one needs, and how you find it. But at McKinley Community Care, you can be rest assured that your loved one is in capable hands during the day.

Founded ten years ago, McKinley Community Care started as a way to give senior adults more opportunities during the day in a safe and loving environment, while also giving their caregivers the support and flexibility they so desperately needed.

“We want to make each day fun and full of love,” said Aysha Cooper, who owns the facility. “This is not a day care – this is a place where we can provide safe and fun activities for everyone in the building.”

There is no shortage of activities to be found at McKinley Community Care. They run the gamut of new adventures both on and off the campus. Whether it is taking a trip to the Five Forks library branch, meeting some furry friends for pet therapy, or gathering for a weekly devotional, each participant at the center has a variety of ways he or she can connect within the group.

On top of the many outings and exciting undertakings, McKinley stands out as being one of the only adult daytime care centers that also offers medical services. With a full-time nurse on staff, McKinley can accept seniors who need medical attention during their stay. In fact, 70% of those at the center struggle with a cognitive impairment. Having medical staff on hand ensures a safe and nurturing environment that allows seniors from all walks of life the chance to create new friendships and experiences.

The center even provides periodic wellness checks and occupational and physical therapy

“Dr. Simmons is proud to offer Botox and Dermal Fillers. Call the office to schedule your consulta

services. In the future, they hope to add podiatry and dental services – everything a senior may need but may have trouble accessing with limited independence.

“Our goal is to meet the needs of the entire family,” said Aysha. “Caring for an aging loved one can be difficult, and we want to offer support to the caregiver as well as the loved one who uses our services.”

Continued on page 13

isJohn honored to beIV, we are committed to providing you with the high AtDr. the Simmons dental office of W. Simmons, comprehensive dental care, focused on both the function and beauty of your smile. A one of only nine dentists improving in patient care and comfort are our primary concerns. We are proud to run a practice that treats ea Georgia to have passed the kind, gentle, and caring manner, just like family. We offer a full range of the latest cosmetic a rigorous required to long-lasting, earn procedures thattesting concentrate on ensuring brilliant results you will love, and others

Cosmetic Dentistry The cosmetic procedures we offer can dramatically enhance the appearance of your smile. We offer a wide selection of procedures that can correct almost any dental imperfection.

• Porcelain Veneers • Teeth Whitening • Dental Bonding • Gum Recontouring • Dental Implants • All-Porcelain Crowns

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Compassionate Dentistry Our superior services can recapture the health, functionality, and youthful appearance of your natural smile. Our practice focuses on providing Before After long-lasting results and promoting overall dental health.

Hexcellent e a lt H y • B e a u t i f u l • i n s p i r e d Our Town Gwinnett

accreditation from the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry.

His state-of-the-art equipment and updated technology allow him to affordably serveDENTAL CARE AND COSMETIC DENTISTRY D.M.D., P.C. • SUPERIOR his patients by providing healthy, beautiful smiles. Our experienced team provides five-star service, personalized care, and an extraordinary commitment to your health and well-being. Please join our Call for an Appointment family by scheduling a new patient exam.

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We use the latest techniques and state-of-the-art technology to deliver a full suite of general and cosmetic dentistry services with a patient and friendly touch.

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Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine

Publisher/Owner Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultZ.com Creative Director Elsie Olson Elsie@EndResultZ.com

Editor Catherine L. Osornio Editor@EndResultZ.com Cover Photographer Marcie Reif Photography

Drs. Vic Koehler, Beau Upshaw and Stewart Helton

770-466-0474 www.CreeksideDentistry.net 3238 KRISAM CREEK DR. • LOGANVILLE, GA 30052 Member of the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry ADA,GDA, Hinman Dental Society

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We want you to feel good about your visit. We place your concerns and needs above our own and focus everything on your well-being, happiness and comfort.

}

Social in Social in your life. your inlife.

Put more Social

Senior Care with Love

Put more

Put more

Love

Distribution Coordinator DeeDee Chapman Feature Writers Pearl Aidoo Heidi Campbell K. Coats Kristen Eleveld Kim Hill Ron Lambros Amy Ney Traci Sanders Beth Volpert Johansen Contributing Writers Bill Crane Tanisha Turner David Walker

— An EndResultZ Media & Communications firm 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 2019 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

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Read Online: OurTownGwinnettOnline.com @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett @OurTownGwinnett Join the Our Town Community Forum:

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Our Day Center offers fun activities, delicious meals, weekly outings, and companionship. We have licensed nursing staff who ensure your loved one receives the health related care they need. At Our Day Center offers fun activities, delicious McKinley Community Care, we provide exceptional senior care meals, weekly outings, and companionship. with love.

5 On the Cover: Caring the McKinley Way: How One Organization is Our Day Center offers fun activities, delicious meals, weekly We have licensed nursing staff who ensure Changing Lives for Local Seniors McKinley Community Care provides Music & Memory and outings, and companionship.

We have licensed staffrelated who care Rehab Therapy. your loved one receivesnursing the health 7 From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion ensure your loved one receives the health related care they need.Care At Funding and available. they need.

At transportation McKinley Community 8 Legal Talk: What Happens in a Will Contest McKinley Community Care, we provide exceptional senior care HOURS: Monday through Friday 7am – 6pm we provide exceptional senior care with love.

your life.

IN THIS ISSUE

9 Learning Lessons: Lifelong Learning is All About Balance

with love.

Corner: Great Scott, Great Wolf, Great Fun McKinley Community Care provides Music To schedule a10 visit,Crane’s call McKinley Community Care provides Music & Memory and 678.691.1610 & Memory and Rehab Therapy.

12 How Two Teams Combined for the Ultimate Staffing Experience Rehab Therapy.

1567 Janmar Road Day is Resort-Style Living 12 SuiteEvery 200 Funding and transportation available.

Funding and transportation available.

Snellville, GA 30078 13 Road to Recovery: The Quinn House info@mckinleyga.com Monday through Friday 7am – 6pm HOURS: Monday throughHOURS: Friday 7am – 6pm 13 Community Spotlight: The Heart of What Matters www.mckinleyga.com To schedule a visit, call

678.691.1610

1567 Janmar Road Suite 200 Snellville, GA 30078 info@mckinleyga.com www.mckinleyga.com

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Fine Dining with Even Better Service Fun on the Farm with Brynn Pennington Teacher Talk: Four Ideas to Celebrate a Teacher You Were Made to Bloom: Meet Michele Yarbrough In Defense of the Modern Teenager Cecil Flowe: A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Football

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Our Town Gwinnett

From the Publisher: One Man’s Opinion

By Ryan T. Sauers

@RyanSauers

@RyanTSauers

I hope everyone is off to a great September. I do many things each week and meet many people locally and across the country. One of th hope everyone is off to a great September. I do many things each week and meet many people locally and across the country.

One of the common themes I encounter centers around the “seeming” lack of time people feel they have. We say, “Where did the time go?” Or, that we have been “buried, covered up, slammed, swamped,” etc. It may seem our world moves faster each day. However, is this true? Apple, Amazon, and Google did not make the clock go faster. We do indeed have more information at our disposal than ever before. But one fact remains: we have 24 hours each day of time. No more and no less. Time is not our enemy.

In contrast, what we do with our time (if not used correctly) is the enemy.

Why wait to do something you dream to do (job, trip, book, hobby) for “one day.” Why NOT now? There are people I know who live their lives in a chaotic state and claim that everything is a disaster. They say “one day…,” and one day becomes decades.

It is simply the worldview some have come to accept. Please do not go down this road. I encourage you to look at life’s challenges and reframe them. The “mental model” you choose to use in making sense of your life/situation/world around you makes all the difference.

If you want something bad enough you will find a way, and if you don’t, you will find an excuse. So, anyone reading this in print or online, I challenge you to quit making excuses, focus on what matters, and make each minute matter.

I am thankful for the Our Town Gwinnett community. Our goal is to provide you with some downtime where you can recharge your batteries and read about positive happenings in the community.

I wish you a wonderful September. I thank you for your valuable time and attention when reading this column each month. And, as always, thank you for continuing with us on the journey of my town, your town, Our Town!

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PAGE 7

Legal Talk: What Happens in a Will Contest

By David Walker

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We recently completed a trial in a will contest case where we represented a 95-year-old lady who left her 7-figure estate to friends and charities rather than to her next of kin. These relatives only visited occasionally and were not her caretakers. Some were even cut out of the will. After a four-day trial, the judge upheld the will.

There can be numerous grounds for contesting the will. The main three are as follows: was the will witnessed properly, was the testator of sound mind, and/or was undue influence used to influence the testator?

The will must be witnessed by two people. A notary is not required in the state of Georgia, but can be of benefit so that the witnesses are sworn in ahead of time and may not have to go to court later.

The testator must be of sound mind when the will is signed.

This means he or she remembers relatives and assets. The distribution plan must be reasonable.

The general purpose of a will must be understood.

The will must be signed voluntarily and by the testator’s own free will. It cannot be the product of undue influence. The court looks at several things in making this decision. Some of these include whether the testator has a strong mind, made unusually large gifts to nonfamily beneficiaries, and whether the testator was isolated from his or her other relatives. Participation in the planning of the will, or having other financial dealings with the testator, can be an indicator.

If the court finds the will was signed and witnessed properly, then the burden of proof is on the person contesting the will to establish one of the grounds for contesting the will.

Every case is different as they relate to will contests. A person can be of sound mind if they are forgetful in general, in the hospital, taking medications, old, even have been diagnosed with dementia. Their mind is sound if they show basic understanding of their assets, relatives, and purpose of the will.

Our firm is active in the preparation, probate, and litigation of wills, and we have had good success in these areas.

More information at https://www.walker-law-firm.com/

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Our Town Gwinnett

Learning Lessons: Lifelong Learning is All About Balance

By Tanisha Turner Children start learning from the moment they are born, soaking up information from observing, discovering, and eventually exploring the world around them. Research shows that the first five years of a child’s life hold the most potential for development. During this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for learning, parents, caregivers and educators can help children build a foundation for future success by providing a rich balance of learning experiences.

“The first five years are the best time to engage children’s minds and help them develop skills that will allow them to thrive later on in life,” says Gloria Julius, Ed.D., vice president of education and professional development at Primrose Schools.

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to teaching and learning, so an ideal learning environment for young children balances purposeful play with nurturing guidance from adults and offers a variety of experiences.”

Learning occurs as children play freely and interact with their environment, as well as through guidance and modeling by adults. Childcare and preschool environments that blend both approaches to learning while balancing different skills and subjects – from science to music to lessons in kindness – help ensure every child reaches his or her full potential.

Of course, learning is not limited to the classroom. The following fun at-home activities also nurture important skills and developmental areas for little ones. Best of all, you can do them together!

Exercise decision-making and critical thinking skills by playing with puzzles together. Let your child try out different pieces rather than showing him or her the right ones.

Build language and literacy skills by writing a story with your little one. Let your child add the illustrations and contribute to the storyline.

Develop important motor skills by tossing a ball with your child or chasing each other in a game of tag. Being active together helps children build a love for physical activity.

Explore science and nutrition by planting a fruit and vegetable garden together.

Your child’s natural curiosity will spark questions and exploration as the planted seeds grow and transform.

Model important character traits for your child, such as compassion, kindness, and generosity. Volunteer at your local animal shelter or share veggies from your garden with a neighbor so your child can witness and learn firsthand the joy of giving back.

Every experience can be a learning opportunity for children. Encourage them to explore, observe, investigate, and ask questions. Allow lots of time for play and provide guidance along the way to take learning to the next level.

Tanisha Turner is Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.

PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com.

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PAGE 9

The Heart of What Matters

Crane’s Corner: Great Scott, Great Wolf, Great Fun

By Bill Crane

Beverly D’Amico RN, MSN, GRS Life Coach & Grief Recovery Counselor TheHeartofWhatMatters.com 770-896-3871 TheHeartofWhatMatters@gmail.com

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Among the many benefits of somewhat late in life, re-boot parenting – I was forty-six when my youngest was born – are the extended opportunities to experience the joys and wonderment as seen through the eyes of a child. My firstborn is now twenty-six and will be teaching 4th graders this fall in Gwinnett County. Her half-sister and my youngest, Olivia, will be entering 5th grade.

Heading out on summer vacation, Olivia, her best friend Alexus, and I headed to LaGrange, Georgia and the new Great Wolf Lodge and Water Park. Great Wolf is part of a mid-western chain of now twelve family resorts located across the country. The Great Wolf Lodge, Atlanta/LaGrange opened Memorial Day weekend of 2018. Just off I-85 south, the lodge sits freshly painted and nestled one exit north of the Kia Sorrento manufacturing plant.

At roughly half the cost of a Disney or Universal stay and with much lower costs of travel, a family suite or similar large room, with fridge and microwave (including the water park and a large number of other free kid-friendly amenities), is offered in a much more protected, secluded and safe family setting, seemingly most ideal from the toddler to pre-teen sets.

This location smartly operates several business lines and revenue streams simultaneously: a summer camp (dayside), a conference center, season passes for nearby area residents, and the fullservice family lodge and resort. There are ten restaurants on property from a Dunkin’ Donuts and Ben & Jerry’s to a sit-down dining room with linens and a full-service menu.

The centerpiece of the resort is an enclosed 100,000 square foot water park, with water at a surprisingly constant 74 degrees. Kids who can swim at most any level are as a result safer, and trained lifeguards are always present. The pool and water park close at 8 p.m., minimizing noise and late-night teen or older high jinks that are often a challenge at other family resorts. The cleancut, well-trained staff was another highlight, and judging from the accents highly dependent on the local labor pool, but all also apparently graduates of the Chick-fil-A school of guest courtesy and deference.

Olivia has blossomed into a strong swimmer, but that took some patience and a few years of instruction by a gifted swim teacher. Conquering fears can take some time, and though this was far from our first water park or rodeo, Olivia was still largely clinging to the kiddie slides, or the almost ubiquitous Lazy River nearby. This trip was complicated by a blister tear under the big toe after one too many trips around the Lazy River sans swim shoes on day one.

Thank God for good friends with big smiles and some prior experience at the resort. By day two, there was no water slide we were unwilling to conquer. Triple Thunder Otter Run racing and the River Canyon Run were other conquests to be had. Clinging hands and slow steps of trepidation up the four floors of stairs became “Can we do that again?” followed by a dead sprint up the same staircase. Ol’ dad’s legs were going to give out long before the enthusiasm to climb every mountain.

The last two challenges were single rides, flume-style. The more visually intimidating is called The Wolf Tail. You load in what appears to be a glass casket, in a standing position. The young ride operator instructs you to fold your arms across your chest, or perhaps to pinch your nose if water shooting up same bothers you in any way, and to cross your legs at the ankle and lock your knees straight.

After a brief 3-2-1 countdown, the bottom of the casket drops away and the rider takes a direct vertical plunge of 75-100 feet before exiting the building into a loop to slow your descent, and then a long shoot flume at the bottom. If not for the crossed legs and locked knees, you might also exit the ride with another memory – reminiscent of the Great Wolf out front baying at the moon – with a certain O w- o w- o w-w o oho o sensation from all that water. Great memories, Great Wolf, great fun. We’ll be back.

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

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PAGE 11

BEST BEST BEST BEST

United in Excellence: How Two Teams Combined for the Ultimate Staffing Experience

By Kristen Eleveld

Every Day is Resort-Style Living

By Our Town Staff

Your life prior to retirement probably felt busy and complicated, full of endless tasks that A few years ago, two successful staffing agencies were you had to attend to for the past thirty years. working to provide excellent employees to meet the needs You had to mow the yard, find a plumber, cook of their community. While they were technically competiand clean, etc. There was never enough time to tors, the owners of these two companies, Brian McBride pursue your passions and hobbies. and Bobby Robinett, often relied on each other for ideas The premier Life Plan Community of Park and resources, and even collaborated on projects. As time Springs wants you to live life the way you’ve went on, they quickly realized they were stronger together dreamed and at the pace you it choose.

All of When comes to finding the perfect When itroof comes to finding than on their own. They decided to combine forces and their homes, cottages, and villas are maintefor your home we have a HUGE selection for your home we have a work as a team – creating one of the most dynamic duos of nance-free so you to have more time do what the When it comes the perfect roofperfect roof When itfinding comes toto finding the staffing agency industry. enjoy. With an extensive variety of ameniofhome brands colors to choose so and colors to c offrom, brands for you your home we have a HUGE selection your weand have a HUGE selection “We’re like a big family,” Bobby said of their workplace ties, no twofor days are the same. Enjoy the walking trails on the 61-acre campus, play a round we can make your house look perfect.

Alldistinguished can make your house atmosphere. “We support each other and we work hard to put a personal touch into everythingof brands colors to choose from, so of 18 holesand withbrands private access tocolors Stone Mountain Golf Club, dinewe at one of five of and to choose from, so we do.” dining venues, or spend time with other neighbors by joining a few of the numerous clubs and of our roofs come with one of the best of our roofs come with o can make houseyour lookhouse perfect.

Allperfect. All weyour can make look It’s easy to feel like family when your team members stay with you for a long time – and thatwe social groups. warranties in the industry and we use warranties in the industry is exactly the case at United Staffing Service. They have multiple team members who have servedof our roofsof come with come one the best ouris available roofs with one of the best A fitness center to keepofyour joints strong and your balance at peak performance. with the group for at least a decade, and a few more who are celebrating twenty years at Unitedwarranties above standard roofing materials. above standard m Trainers will an exercise program to your needs and wants. Or join aroofing club inhelp thebuild industry and we tailor-made useand we warranties in the industry use Staffing Service. Both Brian and Bobby credit much of their success to their excellent team. like the running group where you have a community to keep you healthy. above materials. above standard roofing materials.

“We have a great staff,” said Brian. “We wouldn’t be where we are without them.”

Dostandard you have the roofing travel bug but are worried about the safety of your home? Park Springs’ gated With a terrific team on board and their shared leadership experience, Brian and Bobby have community offers complete security, and the maintenance team will keep your home looking worked together over the last three years to make United Staffing Service the best staffing agency spick and span for your return. Feel free to make that week-long trip into a month-long experiin Gwinnett. Their secret to success, aside from a wonderful crew to work with, is their goal ence! Just remember to take pictures to show your neighbors.

Certified Professionals Certified Professionals of treating each client and employee in a personal, family-centered way, and a commitment to At the Park Springs Wellness Clinic, members can receive comprehensive care without ever consistently superb service. leaving Directed by a full-time, boardacertified geriatrician and nurse practitioner, the When it comes to your home you need a campus.

When it comes to your home you need Certified Professionals Certified Professionals “Our clients appreciate consistency,” said Brian. “No matter what types of circumstances arise, Wellness Clinic is open five days a week and offers a multitude of services covering almost every they know thatWhen our teamitis comes committed toitcompany getting the job done successfully.” is home fully andacertified company that ofisdaily fullywellness. insured and certified aspect The continuum of care is so comprehensive as to serve the needs of your home you needinsured ayou need Whento comes tothat your The clients of United Staffing Service have also come to know and expect that United Staffing Assisted Living, memory care, skilled nursing, respite care, and rehab. The clinic also offers a probefore you let anyone put your hardyou earned before letfrom anyone earned company is fully insured and company that is fully insured and certified Service does not do anythingthat halfway.

With prior experiences incertified corporate staffing agencies, gram Dementiaput Careyour Mattershard (DCM), the global leaders in dementia care culture change.

Brian noticed that many corporate staffing companies were more concerned with sending out a Park Springs is the only US-based care provider with level 1 DCM accreditation. home atanyone risk.

Perimeter Roofing weHere at Perimeter Roofing we at risk. before youbefore let anyone put yourHere hard earned you let putat your hardhome earned Life at Park Springs is resort-style living every day. Don’t you think it’s time to make the move?

Continued on page 14

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Our Town Gwinnett

Road to Recovery: The Quinn House

McKinley Community Care Continued from page 5

By Ron Lambros

Another goal for the center is to prevent seniors from being isolated from their community.

Aysha, who recently wrote a book for entrepreneurs called Passion and Strategy Go Hand in Hand, firmly believes that if senior citizens can get out and participate in their community, they should be given the chance.

If you think your loved one may benefit from these incredible services, the center offers a free trial to give you and your loved one the chance to see how the day-to-day operations work. It’s a four-hour trial, which gives you a glimpse of everything on campus, and helps you and the center determine exactly how they can help the senior in your life.

McKinley Community Care believes so strongly in giving seniors their best quality of life that they made it their motto and mission to go above and beyond.

“We want to educate people and help them understand why this is such an important service,” Aysha said. “We’re all about enjoyable activities, good food, and creating a community full of love.”

More information at https://mckinleyga.com.

When I first heard someone mention The Quinn House, I envisioned a picturesque Bed-and-Breakfast Inn in the North Georgia Mountains, or a venue for wedding receptions or special occasions.

I was never so wrong!

For almost thirty years, The Quinn House has been a haven for the lost, the desperate, and the misguided, and those seeking compassion, a caring community, and a fresh start. And, for almost thirty years, they have found it there.

Founded by Carrol and John Quinn, The Quinn House has grown, as have the needs of those who seek its services. Though long deceased, the Quinns’ vision and mission continues today with a small, but dedicated staff, board of directors, and numerous volunteers, who work diligently and skillfully to continue the dream the Quinns envisioned.

Among an impressive number of resources and services offered, the ministry is most proud of its drug and alcohol rehabilitation and housing for men, its food distribution programs, and its Christmas project for kids.

Community Relations Director Pat Smokes says, “We are a ministry, not a business. What we offer is direction and guidance for living a Christ-like life, learning responsibility and structure, making good choices, and becoming a vital member of a ‘family.’” And no one can argue with its success.

“The food distribution program gave out close to a million pounds of food last year,” she says.

“We work in cooperation with the Atlanta Food Bank, Kroger, Publix, Sam’s, Target, and other corporate sponsors, for both food and financial assistance to run our programs. And God continues to bless us as we help others.”

Smokes adds, “In addition to helping hundreds of families, we know that senior citizens run low on money toward the end of the month, so we give them food to help them make it until their next Social Security check arrives. The line forms all day long, and we simply walk up to the car, give them food, and off they go – appreciative and relieved for another month.”

The Quinn House drug and alcohol rehabilitation and housing center for men is located in an unassuming, renovated home in Lawrenceville. You have probably passed it a dozen times, and would never imagine the life-changing work going on inside. Walking through the front door, there is an air of peace and calm, which belies the chaos that is often happening in the men’s lives who temporarily reside there. There are offices with volunteers answering the phones, all of whom have been through the program personally. There is also a wall with pictures of the success stories in the individual portraits of those who made it through the program. But it wasn’t always easy.

“Make no mistake about it, our program is very rigid,” Smokes emphatically states. “We have very strict rules, structure, and demands; but if you really want to, you can overcome your addiction with God’s help and our direction.”

I met James, one of the success stories. Like many who have gone through the program, he works in the ministry’s thrift store. “The men go through a 40-day program,” he explains. “At the end of the 40 days, if you’re clean and show commitment to recovery, you can stay at the house for up to six additional months at no charge. Food and shelter, along with solid Bible study, are provided. I’ve seen men leave with apartments, jobs, and transportation, all because they could Continued on page 16

Community Spotlight: The Heart of What Matters

By Beth Volpert Johansen Perspectives on loss and grief range from the most minor life change to the complexities that surround the most painful losses known to humans. Anything that represents loss – becoming an empty nester, dealing with illness, or losing a loved one to divorce or death – can cause conflict within a person. The perspective or view of the loss is what can change over time. But what if it doesn’t change? What should a person do?

Outreach comes in many forms. Of course, for outreach efforts by anyone to be effective, the offer must be accepted. As with any population at any given time, there are those in need of outreach and those who are ready and more than fully capable of providing that outreach. Coaching a life and getting to the heart of what matters are exactly the kinds of endeavors in which Beverly D’Amico specializes. In fact, her outreach is aptly named The Heart of What Matters.

As a nurse with an Air Force background, Beverly has been bringing health and healing to oth-

Our Town Gwinnett

Continued on page 17

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United Staffing Service Continued from page 12

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certain number of resumes than taking the time to find a good fit for each position. At United Staffing, both Brian and Bobby believe in the value of sending only the resumes they think meet their clients’ needs. Their recruiters pride themselves in making a good match between client and employee.

At the end of the day, it’s all about providing people with new opportunities to embark on a new career that may literally change their life.

“The biggest reward is to hear from someone we helped who is now in a successful career,” Brian said. “I’ve heard from people years later who were given a chance by our company, and it changed their entire career track.” He added, “It’s about quality, not quantity. We want every match to be a good one that works for everyone involved.”

If you are looking for a staffing company whose commitment to excellence and dedication to serving all types of industry never wavers, then you found it in United Staffing Service. With three local offices and another one on the way, you won’t have to go far to learn exactly how they can help you thrive.

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Are you looking for excellent service, food that is always good, and an atmosphere that can’t be beat? Your search is over! Metro Café Diner in Stone Mountain has all of that to offer and more.

Founded in 2006, the Metro Café Diner has spent the last decade making a name for itself, both in the Gwinnett area and at its sister location in downtown Atlanta, which opened in 2007. Muzo Saritas, who owns and founded the diner, dreamed of a place where guests could have a lot of options for every meal in an environment that fostered good conversation over excellent food.

“We serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day,” said Muzo. “Whether you’re coming home from work in the evening or just starting your shift at dinnertime, we have all the options you want.”

Muzo is no stranger to the restaurant business, having worked in the industry since 1988.

And he places a high priority on giving guests an experience that goes above and beyond with every visit. To that end, they recently completed a renovation of their Stone Mountain restaurant location. The diner is quickly becoming popular for its new, fresh look, complete with authentic Italian tiles and a mouth-watering cake display in the center of the dining room.

What is the Metro Café Diner’s secret to so much success? According to Muzo, the answer is simple: His team members love their jobs, and they do them well. Several have been part of the diner since it opened in 2006, and every member of his staff works hard to make guests want to return to dine with them again.

“The team really shows ownership of the restaurant,” Muzo said. “They run the restaurant so well, I feel like I can be a guest there, too.”

If you go to Metro Café Diner, you can not only expect to be dazzled by the fresh look and Continued on page 17

Fun on the Farm with Brynn Pennington

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Pine Lane Horse Farm has been offering riding lessons and equine education for local youth for the past twenty years. Barn manager Brynn Pennington began her riding career here at the tender age of eight, being mentored by the farm’s owner, Kevin Jewell. Brynn graduated from George Walton Academy and went on to earn her Master’s degree in Physical Education. Just one year into teaching, she realized her heart was devoted to the equestrian program. She created an in-depth training program for Pine Lane Farms and was hired to care for fifty horses and to oversee training the riders.

Brynn educates local children on the care of horses and riding fundamentals, of course, but her mentoring qualities extend much further into core life skills such as building self-confidence, giving back to the community, and being kind to others.

Her students call her Ms. Brynn, and she affectionately refers to them as her “barn rats.” She provides a safe and loving place for these youngsters to learn and develop character.

Private lessons are offered at Pine Lane Farms for $40 per session, and Ms. Brynn even offers camp and private lessons when school is not in session for just $80 per day. The camp hours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and campers ride at least twice per day, learn general horse care, and work alongside other students on various tasks to encourage team-building skills. Students are welcome to visit the farm anytime to help with chores or simply socialize with others.

Ms. Brynn hosts sleepovers and other group activities outside the barn to create a sense of family with her students. Recently, one of her students, who is also a Loganville High School cheerleader, was participating in a car wash fundraiser. Ms. Brynn brought horses, trucks, and

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Brynn Pennington Continued from page 14

The Quinn House Continued from page 13

trailers to be cleaned by the cheerleaders to support them in their mission.

One of Ms. Brynn’s younger students, ten-year-old Mariella, who has been attending Pine Lane Farms for the past seven months, described Ms. Brynn as “friendly, appreciative, and loving.” Her favorite thing to do is hang out at the barn with Ms. Brynn and her friends. Mariella’s mother, Shannon, said her daughter suffered a devastating blow to her confidence and joy of riding last year when her own horse died unexpectedly. Shannon began to worry that she’d never see the light in her little girl’s eyes again. They decided to try out Pine Lane Farms and felt right at home from the first lesson. Ms. Brynn took Mariella under her wing and helped her rediscover her love of riding.

In this day and age when kids are addicted to screens and technology, it’s comforting to know there is a place they can go to connect with peers and have real conversations, receive unconditional love and gentle guidance, and experience a sense of belonging that contributes to something bigger than them. Brynn Pennington is definitely deserving of a spotlight for providing this safe haven for our local youth.

More information at https://www.facebook.com/pinelanefarm/.

save up money to begin again.”

Smokes also manages The Quinn House Thrift Store, which provides revenue for the ministry programs. She personally gives haircuts to the men, as well as oversees the worship services held weekly in the store chapel. As much as she loves the store, her heart is for the children of the families needing assistance, especially at Christmas. “Last year, we provided Christmas for over 2,000 children!” she says. “Schools, businesses, and corporate sponsors, all voluntarily gave to the children. It was incredible! I hope we do more this year. We just need more volunteers and those willing to adopt a child. There’s nothing like it! Many of these children have no father in their life. The Quinn House offers them a ‘family’ and a Heavenly Father they can trust and believe in. You just see God in everything we do, and I’m blessed to be a part of it all.”

As Pat walked back to her office and I was leaving, I spotted a framed picture of Carrol and John Quinn on top of a bookcase, overlooking the store. I had to smile and whisper, “Did you ever imagine all this?” I think the Quinns would be pleased, very pleased!

More information at thequinnhouse.com.

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Teacher Talk: Four Ideas to Celebrate a Teacher

By Our Town Staff Whether it was a kindergarten teacher who demonstrated kindness and compassion, a sixth-grade teacher who encouraged you not to give up when things were hard, or a high school teacher who inspired your lifelong love of reading or learning, most people can remember a teacher who made a difference in his or her life.

A recent survey commissioned by Staples found that three out of four Americans reported having had a favorite teacher, and over 83% said that a teacher had a meaningful impact on their life. These days it’s easier than ever for students to stay in touch with their former teachers, thanks to social media, but that hasn’t always been the case. According to the survey, less than a quarter of baby boomers have stayed in touch with any of their teachers, while 66% of younger Americans have stayed connected to some of their former teachers.

The survey also found that since graduating, nearly one-third of respondents said they hadn’t thanked an important teacher, but wished they had. If there’s a teacher who made a difference in your life or the life of your child, here are some ways you can thank them.

1. Express yourself. If you’re currently in school, or your child is in school, take a moment to write an email or handwritten note to express your appreciation for what they’ve done for you or your child. Include enough detail so they really know what they mean to you and your family.

Or, even better, tell them in person.

2. Enjoy a blast from your past. Look for your teacher on social media sites so you can send a message to thank him or her, no matter how many years have gone by. You can ask your school’s alumni group or reunion committee for assistance locating favorite teachers.

3. Contribute. Add to a teacher’s success by investing in extra school supplies. Many teachers Continued on page 19

The Heart of What Matters Continued from page 13

ers for more than thirty years. “My love is to help women,” says Beverly. “We get bogged down in what we are supposed to be and forget about what we can become.” Combining her love of nursing and her passion for strong psychological strength and health, Beverly has brought her years of experience to her own outreach to the community in and around Gwinnett, and well beyond. “I have clients all over,” says Beverly. “With technology, it is so much easier for people all over the world to seek and receive therapy.”

Beverly’s mission statement from her website reads: “Our mission is to bring balance to individuals in five key areas of their lives: Finance, Relationships, Emotions, Spirituality and Health.

We believe living a life to the fullest means striving for balance in all of these key areas. We’ve searched out the best tools to help bring out the changes you desire that will uncover the Truth behind the myths so that you can begin to live a balanced life and reach your full potential right now!”

“A person can have a total shift and change in their perception of their lives by something perceived as positive or negative,” Beverly says. “A major change, like the loss of a loved one, which is painful, to winning the lottery, which looks like a great thing on the outside, is still change.”

She goes on to explain that no matter the positive or negative perception, change makes a life often vastly different than it was before the catalyst moved things, people, emotions, lives – in a word, stress.

“Emotions are attached to everything we think or do, and stress comes with plenty of emotions,” she adds. “You think you are in control of your life and then things break down.” Beverly explains how, as humans, we tend to be three different people: the “regular” you, the “dreamer” you, and the “negative” you. The negative you is the protector. By being negative – not trying to move beyond a stagnant position – we are protecting ourselves from further pain of movement in any direction. But, as the adage says, nothing ventured, nothing gained.

Learning to move beyond pain is where The Heart of What Matters can help. “We need to verbalize how we feel – have someone really hear us,” she says. “As an Air Force veteran nurse, my own PTSD led me down this road. I needed something that could transform my life.”

Beverly’s own recovery was a path that included a program called F.R.E.S.H. that addressed each of five areas: Finance, Relationships, Emotions, Spirituality, and Health. From her first workshop, Beverly felt she had found a safe environment to practice healthy new skill sets that helped her reach her highest potential by revealing hidden patterns and cycles that were keeping her stuck in the routine of stress that she had developed.

“We need to deal with the truth of who we really are and stop telling ourselves we can’t achieve our goals for one reason or another,” explains Beverly. “The F.R.E.S.H. Awareness Workshop™ allows us to teach clients how to utilize new life tools, learn, participate and collaborate with one another. The Fresh Awareness Workshop™ deals with the uniqueness of an individual’s HEART!” More information at www.theheartofwhatmatters.com

Our Town Gwinnett

Metro Café Diner

Continued from page 14

delicious meals, but you will find that the staff takes a genuine interest in you – and, of course, your order.

“Guests feel at home here,” said Muzo. “Many of our staff know the guests by name, and they even know their regular orders. Guests can tell that they will have a good meal as soon as they walk in the door.”

“Customers are not customers to us – they are guests,” added Ashley Lirette, who has been part of the Metro Café Diner team from the beginning. “We always want to give them a great experience that leaves them feeling like they are a part of the family.”

Families are another priority for the Metro Café Diner – they even have the Easter Bunny visit every spring, which is a fun experience for the guests and staff alike. Along with being a major sponsor for all of Parkview High School’s sports programs, they are constantly looking for new ways to reach out to their community and invite them to a great dining experience.

So if you’re looking for wonderful food, dozens of menu options, and quality customer service, make sure to stop by Metro Café Diner – that’s all they know how to offer.

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

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You Were Made to Bloom: Meet Michele Yarbrough

By Traci Sanders I’ve connected with many women from all walks of life in my writing career and entrepreneurial journey.

My favorite connections are always with women who uplift, encourage, and support other women. Why? Because it’s such a rare thing to experience, especially in the business world.

From a young age, a spirit of competition is fostered in women with phrases such as: “That’s pretty good, for a girl,” or “A woman’s place is in the home,” or “This is a man’s world.” Women compete with other women based on beauty or domestic skills. They compete with men to demonstrate strength, knowledge, or competence.

That’s why it’s so refreshing when I discover women like Michele Yarbrough. Rather than competing with other women, she has dedicated a great portion of her life to inspiring and encouraging them.

For twenty-one years she ministered to preschool families about parenting principles, based on a variety of tools such as the book Screamfree Parenting, which educates parents on connecting with their children through the power of calm. As a mom of three, ages 24, 21, and 16, and a former preschool ministry director, Michele developed a passion for encouraging and supporting women in all seasons of their lives.

In another realm of her career, Michele enjoys working at Epiphany Boutique in Athens. As a Bachelor of Science major in Fashion Merchandising from Eastern Kentucky University, she is thrilled to be using her credentials to help others again, now that her children are older. Michele sees it as retail ministry and is provided with many opportunities to speak to women and encourage them through her position at Epiphany.

Michele is also the founder of www.youweremadetobloom.com and creator of Bloom Boxes – beautifully designed boxes filled with encouraging notes, journals, candles, keychains, and more – all made by women in business and intended to lift the spirits of those who receive them.

Bloom Boxes are primarily available in two varieties: one for women in general, and one Continued on page 21

In Defense of the Modern Teenager

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It happened again. A group of older people had a complaining session about “young people today” on the internet. The young person didn’t value something the same way that the older person did, so that meant the whole generation was doomed. But that’s the way it’s always been, hasn’t it? We can go pretty far back to find the evidence of the older generation complaining about the younger one: Socrates to be precise.

I’d be willing to bet that those same folks complaining on the internet had their fair share of criticisms from their elders as well.

So why is it that this tradition rivals baseball as America’s favorite pastime? As a teacher who works exclusively with this age group, I firmly believe it comes down to a couple of major elements.

Older folks usually don’t complain about individuals. They complain about the whole generation. So one element is that people often have a preconceived notion about how “the youth” behave. Anyone who acts like this notion confirms that idea, and anyone who doesn’t is the individual exception.

People loathe the group but like the individuals. This isn’t limited to this generation, however. We can all recall wholesale labels about young people; and, again, I’d wager that most of us felt those labels were inaccurate at best.

The other, larger, reason that today’s youth seems to get a particular amount of ire boils down to one basic fact – the world of our own youth is gone, and this new world of today’s youth is disorienting. It’s frustrating to say the least, and they don’t seem to share that frustration. It’s almost like the people who were accused of witchcraft in the Middle Ages just because they were odd and showed no remorse or discomfort in their oddity.

We see these young people with more phone apps than we can name doing more transactions, Continued on page 21

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Our Town Gwinnett

Teacher Talk Continued from page 17 use their own money to enhance the classroom, or to help students who cannot afford supplies.

Nearly a third of survey respondents reported that a teacher had bought them school supplies when they couldn’t afford them or helped them out with lunch money. Not sure what to get? Buy a few extra items from your child’s supply list or pick up a gift card so the teacher can select what would be most useful for the classroom.

4. Make your appreciation public. Share your appreciation for a teacher with the world by posting a message, photo, or video on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Successful vlogger and cofounder of parenting website WhatsUpMoms, Elle Walker, publicly thanked a teacher who made a big impact on her life. Walker surprised her high school media teacher with a special thank you for helping her get where she is today. A formerly shy and awkward high schooler, Walker was able to break out of her shell with her teacher’s encouragement, starting with doing the morning announcements at her school. Now she reaches millions of parents through her social channels.

Make and take the time to thank the important teachers in your life and the lives of your children this year, as we proceed in this new school year. (BPT)

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PAGE 19

8/6/19 10:15 AM

Cecil Flowe: A Legacy of Faith, Family, and Football

By Ron Lambros After thirty-two years of coaching, Cecil Flowe slowly strolled the hallways of Parkview High School in Lilburn one last time. Walking out the door, he was leaving behind a legacy – some might call it a dynasty – of excellence in the hallowed records of Georgia High School Football. And who could doubt his accomplishments? Amassing an incredible 198-56 record in his coaching career, Coach Flowe took the Panthers to six State Championships, winning four titles, three of which were part of a 46-0 consecutive wins record, including three perfect 15-0 seasons in twenty-three years.

So, why walk away from such a successful career? Why leave the accolades and recognition of being one of the premier coaches in the State of Georgia? His answer was simple. “I was tired,” Flowe said. “And I didn’t get in the game to achieve personal accolades. I got in the game to build young men.”

Consulting his peers, his beloved wife, Penny, and his children, Shelby and Patrick, he knew it was time to leave the game.

The Flowes moved to Cumming, but the coach soon realized that retirement wasn’t for him. He accepted the Defensive Coordinator position at Kings Ridge Christian School, and then became the Assistant Head Coach/Offensive Line Coach at North Forsyth High School, where he currently coaches.

Flowe was back on the sidelines!

His schools may have changed, but his priorities haven’t.

“I never was just about the team. I wanted to establish a total program, a culture that produced young men to be leaders.”

Among those leaders was his own son, Patrick, who coached alongside his dad at North Forsyth before recently accepting a teaching/coaching position in Warner Robins. “Patrick grew up around the football program at Parkview, from ball boy to

student athlete,” Flowe said. “He was my son, but he had to earn his way onto the game field.”

Patrick excelled and was good enough to play four years at Georgia Southern as a Linebacker, starting as a true freshman.

When asked what distinguished Patrick from other coaches he could have selected, Flowe was quick to respond. “I wanted to have the opportunity to see him take what he learned and give back to the kids and program. His ability to get kids to understand is outstanding, and he never stops researching about the game to give back to the kids.” Sounds a lot like his Dad. Coaching hasn’t always been easy for Cecil Flowe and his family. “I was gone all the time!” Flowe credits his wife, Penny, also an educator, as being incredibly understanding and supportive. “The wives of coaches are heroes!”

Flowe also experienced the tragic death of his mentor and close friend, Chuck Mize, in 1993, which profoundly impacted his life. But it was the death of Parkview student, Jessie Smith, who died of a rare form of brain cancer in 1997, that solidified the coach’s highest priority and calling. “I finally understood what God’s plan for me was in coaching and why Chuck had died. He [God] had given me a platform, and showed me what He had planned for me to do. It was so much more than football.”

Coach Flowe continues to openly share his faith and build character in his players, teaching life-lessons along with the Xs and Os of the game. They are many, but they boil down to two simple truths: “You are not promised tomorrow. GET SAVED!” and, “Believe in yourself!”

No one can argue that Cecil Flowe has achieved true success in life, nor wonder why he continues to be loved and respected wherever he coaches. He personifies a quote from the great UCLA Basketball Coach, the late John Wooden, who said, “I am just a common man who is true to his beliefs.”

I believe Coach Wooden would be proud of you, Coach Flowe. I know we are!

More than 30 Years of Helping People with their Money Roger S. Green, MSFS, CFP® Green Financial Resources, LLC

With more than 30 years of experience helping people with their money through the tough times and the good times, and teaching retirement planning classes since 1997, Roger is highly qualified to assist with all of your financial and investment planning needs.

Financial Strategies for Successful Retirement (FSSR) A class designed to put you in control of your financial future

Sugarloaf Campus Three Tuesdays October 1, 8, & 15, 6:00-9:00pm Personal planning consult included after class ends. Course tuition of $149 covers you and a guest.

Registration: call Gwinnett Technical College at 770.995.9697 or go to www.GwinnettTech.edu/CE. FSSR will be found under the Hobbies and Personal Enrichment section.

Pu t th is te

Special Free Class - Medicare Supplement Seminar

am to work f

! ou y or

If you are 65 or older, on Medicare, or enrolling for the first time, the Medicare Supplement Plan options can be confusing and the wrong decisions costly. We have partnered with a local firm that assists in making those decisions offering a free educational seminar.

To RSVP, call our office at (770) 931-1414.

Thursday, September 12, 1:00-3:00pm - Sugarloaf Campus Unable to attend class? Call 770.931.1414 today to schedule a no cost consultation. www.RogerSGreen.com Investment Advisor Representative offering securities & advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial, Gwinnett Tech & Cetera Advisors are not affiliated.

Awards are not to be considered a guarantee of future results, nor as an endorsement by any client. Best of Gwinnett winners are chosen via voting and editors’ input, & opinions are vetted with the use of other available information.

Pinnacle award rankings are based on growth, revenue, community service, & other criteria. Barron’s: based on total assets (AUM), revenue, & other factors. Office located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy, Ste 140, Duluth, GA 30096.

PAGE 20

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Our Town Gwinnett

Modern Teenager Continued from page 18

Meet Michele Yarbrough Continued from page 18

communication, monitoring, and business than we can imagine, and on more than one level we feel a bit left behind. And in the end, it isn’t really the youth who we are frustrated at; it’s the ever-changing technology.

Well, this senior literature teacher has some very good news for the older people out there.

I’ve worked with teenagers for going on fourteen years now, and I firmly believe we are in good hands. Here’s why.

Today’s young people, as a whole, are brilliant in ways I didn’t think their age group was capable of achieving. I have seen more teenagers developing their own businesses, taking leadership roles, and participating in community events than ever before. They are almost always multi-tasking. And while that has its own detractions, of course, the idea that they are absorbed in their phones wasting time is inaccurate. They are also excellent sources for information, and if they don’t already know it, then they often know where to look. They naturally fact check, and many will examine multiple news sources when forming opinions on current events. Once upon a time, I used to have to tell my students what had happened in the world. Now they will inform me which news source said what. They ask questions and are not content with half-impressions.

All their achievements are particularly impressive when one considers the historical backdrop they inherited. This is a generation who never lived through 9/11 or the events at Columbine in 1999, but those episodes have been like a shadow over their shoulder their entire lives. They’ve never known a time without active shooter drills, Amber alerts, and a constant news feed vying for their attention. So the idea that they have persisted and worked for a hopeful future while shouldering such emotional and historical baggage is even more impressive. This generation’s hope is inspiring, and they are not ones to accept “no” easily when it comes to what they want to accomplish.

So in the end, today’s youth are not worse than any other generation of teenagers to come before them. They are resilient and, on the whole, bright and optimistic. They are born leaders who question everything. Having them in my classroom keeps me on my toes, and I love it. I love their curiosity and unwillingness to settle. Their insatiable thirst for context and understanding makes me hopeful for what kind of world we’ll have with them at the helm. So yes, the teenagers of today don’t act like the ones from generations past, and they shouldn’t. It’s a different reality than what we had, and they’re adapting and improving upon what they were given. I’d wish the kids good luck, but I know better. Today’s teens are masters at making their own luck. Well done, kiddos.

for teens or college students. The specific contents of these boxes are listed on the website.

Customized boxes for church events or other organizational events can be ordered by emailing Michele. Bloom Boxes are shipped all over the United States and are not subscription boxes.

Michele’s philosophy is that every woman deserves to be celebrated anytime, not just on special occasions. Bloom Boxes are meant to make women feel loved, supported, and encouraged, giving them a sense that they are not alone in their struggles.

Michele takes this a step further by allowing visitors of her website to nominate deserving women in their communities to obtain a Bloom Box for free. Michele chooses one winner per month. These nominations are often theme-based. This month’s theme is all about supporting wives of policemen and firemen.

What an example of not only God’s love, but love and appreciation between women! Michele’s prayer is that every woman lives her life in full BLOOM! I’m sure women all over the country would attest that Michele Yarbrough deserves her very own Bloom Box. More information at https://www.youweremadetobloom.com/

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PAGE 21

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Become an Advertising Partner: Visit OurTownGwinnett.com or Call 678-825-2049

PAGE 23

MORE THAN

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For more than 900 patients annually, Gwinnett Medical Center’s Total Joint Program isn’t just a place where they receive advanced, highly-specialized care. It’s where the journey to living their best, pain-free life begins.

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