AUG 2013: Our Town Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Magazine by Our Town Gwinnett Magazine

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town

August 2013

Lilburn l Lawrenceville l Snellville l Grayson l Stone Mountain

Meet Kathy Coots, President of Coots Realty, and Her Family

5 On the Cover: Getting to Know Kathy Coots 8 Lilburn Farmers’ Market: Organized and Organic 15 Side by Side: On the Frontlines of Brain Injury 16 Tips For Becoming a Superstar Student 18 Q and A with: John Williams/Owner of Unlocked Fitness

STONE MOUNTAIN GA PERMIT #1037

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“Christa’s Story” Ever since I was born, I was a very sick child. My mother always had to rub my belly until I fell asleep it was so bad. I don’t think I ever had a day or night without my stomach hurting. Every time my stomach hurt I thought that I was dying. I went to the doctor every week so that they could take blood and see what was wrong. They NEVER found anything, I almost felt like they thought I was lying or going crazy. I was always scared to go to friends houses because I knew what would happen. Every time I got stressed or scared, my stomach reacted with a horrible feeling. All the doctors did was give me more medicine to take. Every first day of school was very stressful. I cried and cried because I knew I would get sick during the day. I would check out at least 3 days a week because of my stomach. Me and the school nurse actually became good friends because I visited her so much. Everything new upset my stomach, school, meeting new people, over the summer camps, sleep overs, everything a kid should be doing. I started to get better when I visited a new doctor. He gave me vitamins and such, which I wasn’t to happy about, all I was thinking was “Oh great more pills to take.” But I soon found out that I wasn’t hurting as much as I use to. After a year we moved so I ran out of the stuff he gave me and I got ill once again. I started to get worse as we looked for solutions. After about four years we found an Ad about Dr. Gravante. We set an appointment and she knew exactly what to do. We got some directions and after the second day I was already starting to feel better. I knew it would take longer than one month of a lot of shakes and medicine, but with great encouragement all around, the program got easy to stick too. It was pretty hard watching everything you eat, and tempting to see restaurants every time you were in the car. But I’m glad to say that it’s worth it. Thanks to Dr. Gravante I don’t think I would be here right now. I’m enjoying my life, playing with my friends, and not getting stressed out so much about the little stuff.

Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by Monday, June 15. for Your Evening Appointment! We’re looking forward to meetingCall you Today at our Summer Open House!

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These results may not be typical. Results with products may vary from individual to individual. These nutrition recommendations are provided solely to support good nutrition with the intent of supporting the physiological and biochemical process of the human body and not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended by Dr. Gravante is not intended as a primary therapy for any disease. Prior to starting any diet, nutrition or exercise program, you should consult with your medical physician.

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Gwinnett Family Lifestyle News M agazine

— An EndResultz Company

Publisher Ryan T. Sauers Creative Director Elsie Olson Director of Sales Kari Green Contributing Writers Dr. Jeanette Altieri Glenton Ashby Taylor Burns Terie Hansen Amy Hentschel Kristin McCabe Julie Mills Ashton Pike Ryan T. Sauers Chrissy Thomas Pam Walker Carol Wood

Our Town is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town 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 2013 by Our Town. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.

Our Town Monthly 1227 Rockbridge Road Suite 208-171 Stone Mountain, GA 30087 info@endresultz.com www.endresultz.com

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On the Cover: Getting to Know Kathy Coots One Man’s Opinion August Calendar Lilburn Farmers’ Market: Organized and Organic Crossword Puzzle Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon Will My Child Be Ready For Elementary School? Experience Counts! What Type of Dog Is Best For Your Family? Improve Your Brain Function A Senior Moment: A Short Term Stay Side by Side: On the Frontlines of Brain Injury Tips For Becoming a Superstar Student Ways to Help Prevent Backpack Injuries Question and Answer with: John Williams/Owner of Unlocked Fitness

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Our Town

On the Cover: Getting to Know Kathy Coots By Ashton Pike Kathy Coots, President of Coots & Company, part of Keller Williams Realty-Atlanta Partners Northeast, is an active member in the Brookwood community and a devoted mother and wife. Kathy is an Atlanta native who was born at Crawford Long Hospital, lived in the metro Atlanta area, and graduated from Stone Mountain High School. After graduation, she transferred to middle Georgia, Florida, and South Carolina with her mortgage employer. Moving to South Carolina proved to be a good move professionally and personally. She met her husband, Darien Coots, on a blind date on an uncommonly lucky Friday the 13th in November 1992. They married in 1994, and Darien, Kathy, and D.J., Darien’s son, became one happy family. A corporate relocation brought them back to Georgia in 1995, and their family was complete in 1996 when their daughter, Kailyn, was born. Kathy is a dedicated real estate consultant for Keller Williams Realty. She fell into realty when she sensed the subprime mortgage industry was headed for a decline, and she needed an exit strategy. “As I helped a longtime friend who was relocating to the community find a home, I realized through that process I had found my passion”, Kathy states. Wanting to affiliate with the best realty company, Kathy researched and decided to join Keller Williams Realty – Atlanta Partners “…because of their culture and the training they offered new agents.” Licensed in 2006, Kathy has not only survived one of the worst real estate markets, she has thrived. The majority of Kathy’s business happens in and around the Brookwood, Parkview, and Grayson clusters of Gwinnett County Schools. Residing in Flowers Crossing at the Mills, she is an active member in the community and can relate to buyers who want to live in the area. Having raised a family and having gone through the different stages of buying houses helps her understand what other families, couples, or singles are looking for in a home. “Regardless of what you sell, you have to believe in your product. My product happens to be real estate in this community. Being active and having a good understanding of the how/what/where and when of this area helps me

do my business better,” Kathy says. Within the neighborhood, Kathy enjoys playing tennis and bunco, and serves as President on the Board of Directors for Flowers Crossing at the Mill Homeowners Association. She also serves on the PTSA for Brookwood High School. When Kailyn was younger, Kathy assisted with Brookwood Football Association’s cheerleading program, was an Assistant Troop leader and ‘Cookie Mom’ for Kailyn’s Girl Scout Troop, and taught Sunday school at Cannon UMC. Kathy currently helps with the nursery at Grace Fellowship. Kathy’s daughter, Kailyn is a rising senior at Brookwood and a LUG leader for middle school girls at Grace Fellowship. Kailyn wants to become a Realtor once she graduates college, and Darien, Kathy’s husband, is currently enrolled in a pre-license course. Having this job allows Kathy to spend time with her family, stay involved and have fun in the community, and help other families with their real estate needs. “That’s a win-win,” Kathy explains. “Nothing could make me happier. I don’t really think about retirement because this career is so awesome that I don’t feel like I will want to ever truly retire. I’ll just take a back seat to the younger Coots and let her sit in the driver’s seat.” For more information on Kathy Coots or her real estate business, please visit www.KathyCoots.com, www.KathyCoots.info, www.BrookwoodHomesForSale.com or www.HomesGrayson.com

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PAGE 5

CP SIDE 1

One Man’s Opinion

Familiarity with the area is essential.

By Ryan T. Sauers Well, Gwinnett, can you believe it is August? Time moves fast, and it seems as if the summer has merely just begun. However, a new time of year is here. School is starting again, football (my favorite sport’s season) is on the horizon, and fall will be here before we know it. Our Town Magazine, in printed and online form, continues to connect people across the county. I am honored to have so many new people joining our rapidly growing team. New additions include Kari Green in sales, Dave Skillen in photography, and Taylor Burns and Stacye Carroll as feature writers. The best part of meeting the new members of the team is that they are somehow connected to the magazine. Everyone (whether advertiser, reader, writer, etc.) knows someone else in this community. It is a small world. These stellar individuals add to the list of our tremendous existing team. Thanks to all of you. Also, a special thanks goes to many of our writers who graduated from Brookwood High School and are heading to college. KUDOS to: Hank, Stefanie, Ashton, and Allie. You all are tremendous individuals, and I know you will each do incredibly well at the collegiate level. We will soon be expanding our website,Sales social media, page count, and more as we Rep: increase the number of stories, advertisers, and photos. So stay tuned. Growth is a great problem. Gwinnett, I am here to tell youSales thatPH theRep: economy is getting better. This is great news. Kathy Coots, who we profile on thisPH August cover, is a super person, and she will be sharing information in upcoming issues about the housing market in our community. So, keep the emails and calls coming and the word of mouth going. We live in a closely connected community. And remember: this is a great town, your town, OUR TOWN. More at www.ourtownmagvideo.com

Final Visual

We utilize the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to exceed your expectations. More importantly, I listen and that means I find solutions that are tailored to you. Call me or visit my website to learn more about how I can help you with your real estate needs. I appreciate the opportunity to earn your business.

Kathy Coots keeping your best interest at heart.

770.654.8972 www.KathyCoots.com

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August Calendar Blind Date August 1-4 Norcross Cultural Arts And Community Center, Norcross www.lionhearttheatre.org Theatre, Thurs Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm 770-885-0425 Brown Bag Concert August 2 Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn, Lawrenceville www.gwinnettparks.com Lunchtime Concert, 11am-1pm 770-822-5450 Lilburn Farmers Market August 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Downtown Lilburn www.lilburnfarmersmarket.org Lilburn, Farmers Market, 4pm-8pm, 678-667-2592 Suwanee Farmers Market August 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Town Center Park, Suwanee www.suwanee.com Farmers Market, 8am-12pm, 770-945-8996

Lawrenceville Farmers Market August 3 In Front Of Parking Deck, Lawrenceville www.lawrencevillefarmersmarket.com Farmers Market, 8am-12pm, 404-395-4215 Back To School - Movie In The Park August 3 Grayson Park, Grayson www.cityofgrayson.org Free Movie Night American Idol Live! August 4 Arena At Gwinnett Center, Duluth www.gwinnettcenter.com Live Performances, 7:30pm, 770-813-7500 Grayson Farmers Market August 7, 14, 21, 287 Grayson City Park, Grayson www.facebook.com/graysonfarmersmarket Farmers Market, 4pm-8pm, 678-697-6331

Duluth’s 3rd Annual City Council Chili Cook-Off August 15 Duluth Town Green, Duluth www.duluthga.net Chili Cook-Off, 6pm 770-9149101

Eastman’s Gun Show August 24-25 North Atlanta Trade Center, Norcross www.northatlantatradecenter.com Gun Show, 10am–5pm, 770-279-9899 Moonlight And Music Concert Series August 30 Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn, Lawrenceville www.visitlawrenceville.com Outdoor Concert Series, 8pm 678-226-2639

Intergalactic Bead & Jewelry Show August 18 Gwinnett Center-Convention Center, Duluth www.gwinnettcenter.com www.beadshows.com Jewelry Show, 10am, 770-813-7500 Atlanta Chinese August Moon Festival Celebration Performance M*A*S*H August 31 August 22-25, 29-31 Performing Arts Center At Gwinnett New Dawn Theater, Duluth Center, Duluth www.newdawntheatercompany.com www.gwinnettcenter.com Theatre, Thurs-Sat 8pm, Sun 2pm www.cacpgatlanta.org 678-887-5015 Mid-Autumn Festival, 7pm, 770-813-7500

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Every Friday evening downtown Lilburn becomes a hub of activity with homemade goods and delicious food. Now in its fourth season, the Lilburn Farmers’ Market is one of the biggest events of the summer that never fails to draw a crowd. Mandy McManus is the market coordinator, and she runs the weekly market with the help of her mother and several members of the Lilburn Woman’s Club. “The market is a great way to bring the community together and support local businesses,” Mandy says. “It’s also just a great way to spend a summer afternoon in the sun!” With the help of Mayor Johnny Crist, they organized the first Lilburn Farmers’ Market when the city council approved the measure as a way to draw more attention to the downtown area. Mandy says that the market started as an idea proposed by Mayor Crist when they worked together on a park committee. Since space for a booth is only ten dollars per week, the potential to make money is great, especially since many vendors depend on farmers’ markets for their livelihood. Vendors at the Lilburn Farmers’ Market come from all over the state to sell their various goods, and the market is essential to their growing businesses. In addition to helping local industries flourish, the market is also involved in community outreach. The Lilburn Woman’s Club has a regular booth at the market where people can seek advice on senior planning and receive counseling for issues such as domestic violence. They also operate a free community lending library with hundreds of different books available. There is also another booth available to a different charitable organization each week as a fundraising and community awareness opportunity. Farmer John, as he likes to be called, operates a produce stand and has been a figure of the Lilburn Farmers’ Market since its first season. A self-professed “founding father,” he is proud to be a part of the success of the market, which he attributes to the organization becoming a “social event” in the community. He credits himself with having a pivotal role in the market’s inception when he brought some of his prized strawberries to the city council. According to Farmer John, when asked how his strawberries grew so large, he facetiously replied that they had grown under his outhouse! All jokes aside, the Lilburn Farmers’ Market is a wonderful opportunity for artisans and growers all over Georgia. Stalls from McDonough, Monroe, Woodbury, and other distant localities sell delicious fruits and vegetables that do not grow in our region of the state, giving Gwinnett the opportunity to buy an amazing variety of organic produce. Other booths sell more specialized products such as Papparadelle’s Handmade Pasta. Operators Mike and Shelly Moller have also been involved in the market since its first year, and both agree that it substantially contributes to their business’ success. “We’ve been doing farmers’ markets for about nine years now, and there initially weren’t that many in Atlanta,” Mike says. “The people here that organize it and help set-up are great, and everyone is part of this kind of family atmosphere.” Other artisanal products ranging from organic honeys and jams to handmade birdhouses and candles demonstrate that the Lilburn Farmers’ Market isn’t just about the food. The market showcases crafts and trades that are important to society and provide an income to those who are doing what they love. Almost as impressive as the vendors’ commitment to their products is the diversity of the market. Greek, Italian, and Mexican food are available, as well as barbeque, cakes, pastries, and more. No two booths are the same, and with so many unique products, the only problem is deciding what to buy. The last week for the Lilburn Farmers’ Market for the season will be August 30th, so don’t forget to visit before it’s gone!

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Our Town

Bhutan – Land of the Thunder Dragon

Fall in Love with your body again!!

By Pam Walker When I was invited to visit Bhutan, one of the “top emerging destinations of the world” (per Condé Nast and several other publications), I jumped at the chance, though it wasn’t easy to get there. The trip involves an overnight stay in Bangkok or Delhi. Druk Air (Dragon Air) flies daily from both cities and into Paro, the main entry into the country. Bhutan is a tiny country measuring 110 miles north to south and 200 miles east to west. In Bhutanese the country is called Druk Yul, meaning Dragon Land. Its name, adopted in 1907 when the country was founded, stems from an ancient Buddhist legend about a land where the dragons lived. The first king of Bhutan was elected through an archery contest, which is now, of course, the national sport. On any day you can find teams of young men totally absorbed in this national pastime. But Bhutan is more than dragon legends, dragon kings, and archery. Bhutan is a wonderful green space where you can hike high mountains, visit beautiful temples, go mountain biking, or just get to know the wonderful people, most of whom speak English. There are a myriad of birds for bird watchers, flora and fauna like nowhere else on earth, and beautiful sights around every corner. Best of all, this very young country has adopted a social plan called “Gross National Happiness” that is measured by the output of the people every year. There is very little poverty in Bhutan and the people are content and grateful to Druk King No. 5 and his father and grandfathers before him. I didn’t find any Thunder Dragons, but I did find a wonderful happy country that is one great adventure after another. It truly is a top emerging travel destination. Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel advisor and can be reached at pliwalker@earthlink.net.

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Will My Child Be Ready For Elementary School? By Kristin McCabe, Primrose School of Five Forks More and more parents are recognizing the importance of enrolling their children in preschool to help develop the right foundation for success in elementary school and beyond. The best programs go beyond mastering basic academic skills by supporting the development of happy, confident, and well-rounded individuals. Research shows that from birth to age 5, changes and growth in all areas of development are rapid. Children form strong neural connections during this time as a result of the experiences they encounter. The quality of those early interactions determines how children will continue to learn and form relationships, which strongly influences their future success and happiness. “Informed parents look for preschool, pre-K, and kindergarten programs that take a balanced approach to developing motor, social-emotional, creative, and academic skills,” said Dr. Gloria Julius, vice president of education for Primrose Schools. “It takes quality instruction, a well-rounded curriculum, and a positive teacher relationship to prepare a child to succeed.” Academics: It’s important to go beyond concentrating only on basic math and reading skills. Academic success requires learning how to think critically, use mathematical concepts, express curiosity, and develop competence in all language skills including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Technology: In today’s technology-rich world, children need to have a grasp on technology as a tool for creative expression and problem solving. Computers equipped with developmentally-appropriate educational software and online resources should be integrated into the classroom. Physical Development: Children who participate in daily physical activity develop basic motor skills like throwing, jumping, and balance that help them become healthy adults. Physical activity also creates neural connections that support academic achievement. Music and Art: Young children naturally engage in “art” or spontaneous creative

play, but when educators involve children in music and art activities regularly from an early age, they are also promoting cognitive and emotional development. Social-Emotional Development: Preschool programs should focus on supporting the development of social and life skills, as well as executive function, which has received a lot of attention lately from researchers who say that it will help a child establish positive relationships and make a successful transition to elementary school. Will your child be ready to enter elementary school? Selecting the right child care or preschool program is a critical step in helping your child succeed. Plan to tour schools at least one year in advance so you have plenty of time to apply and enroll your child.

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Experience Counts! By Chrissy Thomas, RN, BSN

I started About Face Skin Care in 2002. Having been involved in my practice for over a decade, I can reflect on what my experiences have taught me. I am very proud of the quality of service and consistent results I have been able to offer my clients and the excellent staff that has been by my side. With this being said, I have advice to offer to anyone seeking any anti-aging treatment. From treatments as simple as facials to those as invasive as cosmetic surgery, always remember“EXPERIENCE COUNTS!” Always talk with friends or acquaintances about their experience with a practice. A client should never feel rushed or unsure about a provider or the office he or she is visiting. If this is the first time you have thought about seeking products or services in the anti-aging arena, let your provider know. If you feel like you are being forced into making a decision too fast, or if it seems like you aren’t sure of what you are getting into, walk away. You should never be cornered into the “buy today or pay more” schemes. You aren’t buying a car. Clients should be encouraged to take materials home to review and to ask more questions if they want. We often encourage a second consultation to give clients time to think about treatment options. Picking someone that you have heard positive feedback on is probably a safer bet than randomly choosing a place. Check into the “experience” of the provider. Many people are surprised that it takes very little time and preparation to set up shop doing invasive procedures such as Botox and Juvederm treatments. Not only do you need to ask how long someone has been performing these treatments, you need to ask how many they are doing. Just because someone was certified to do injections 10 years ago does not mean they are doing them 8 hours per day. Choose someone who has been working long enough with the particular treatment you are seeking to deal with any negative effects that may arise. Ask to see some photos of the provider’s actual clients to see if the result is what you would expect. I always like to show new guests the photos of our NonSurgical

Facelift clients. Although we have hundreds of satisfied customers doing this procedure, it is important to know that this is the degree of correction a new customer is seeking before starting the treatments. A long lasting relationship should be the goal of all providers in this industry. Clients also need to tell the provider if they are not happy. Most undesired outcomes can be corrected. Always let the provider know if you expected a different result. Good communication goes both ways. A problem cannot be fixed if the provider is not aware of it. Although it can be scary to trust someone with your appearance, following these few simple rules can make the process much safer. If you are interested in discussing any of the treatments and products please let us know. We look forward to seeing you! Chrissy Thomas is owner of About Face Skin Care. www.aboutfaceskin.com.

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What Type of Dog Is Best for Your Family? By Terie Hansen Thinking of getting a dog? Do your homework! Most people choose their breed based on aesthetics, or they go to a shelter and pick the cutest one. Keep in mind that this is a commitment that lasts on average 15 years! That’s a long time to live with a dog that doesn’t work with your lifestyle. In truth, choosing the wrong dog can be stressful and costly with any number of things going wrong. If you choose a high energy dog and you work long hours with little time to properly exercise him, you have a recipe for disaster. Any number of behavioral problems can arise: excessive barking, digging, chewing, nervousness, separation anxiety, and aggression. How much time can you allot to walking the dog each day? Most dogs need two good daily walks. Long hair or short? Grooming a long haired dog can be time consuming and costly, running anywhere from $35-$100 every 4-6 weeks. Low, medium or high energy? Within any breed you can have different energy levels. Are you a couch potato? Choose low energy. Like to jog or bike daily and looking for a partner? High energy would be a fit. Do you already have a dog or other pets at home? Consider what would be a good fit for them. Puppy or adult dog? While a puppy may be more work on the front end, you can get them started on the right path with training. If you choose an adult dog, they may come with some built in bad habits. Consult with a trainer straight away. Don’t make the mistake of thinking behaviors will work themselves out. They usually get worse if left unaddressed. Make a list of pros and cons of the different breeds, and be honest about your real life restrictions or limitations. You may change some of your habits in the short term, but you will most likely fall back to your old habits in the end. Be fair to you and, most importantly, to the dog! Terie Hansen is a Professional Dog Trainer, Pet Sitter & Owner at Good Dog! www.gooddogcoaching.com

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Do you remember going back to school in the fall and how hard it was to “get back into the swing of things?” Some of us may feel that way all the time! In this month’s article, I want to share with you what changes we can make that will improve our brain function and help “get us in gear.” According to the Huffington Post, we should incorporate walnuts, olive oil, dark berries, fatty fish, coffee, spinach, dark chocolate, avocados, water, wheat germ, eggs, beets, and garlic into our diet. These brain super foods help promote blood flow which, in turn, allows for efficient delivery of oxygen to the brain. They are a great source of omega 3 and have been shown to slow brain aging. They also stimulate mental activity and improve focus and decision making. It is so important to feed our brain in the mornings. It is starved for nutrition after a long night of sleep and has to be fueled up to work properly! A brain-healthy breakfast can be a shake with your favorite fruits and vegetables, a pita with scrambled eggs (I love salsa!), or, if the morning traffic report pushes you out the door, even a handful of nuts and berries. When it comes to improving brain function, one of the healthiest things we can do is exercise. There are benefits to almost any type of exercise. If you’re older and haven’t exercised in a while, there’s something for you, too: Try: Touching your finger to your nose and alternate hands Walking in a straight line, heel to toe, and then walking backwards heel to toe Dribbling a ball and alternate bouncing the ball from one hand to another. Practice with your non-dominate hand which will stimulate the brain Doing crossover exercises such as touching your right hand to your left knee and vice versa Sitting on a stability ball and bouncing. This simple motion will increase blood flow and stimulate brain function One-legged exercises such as standing on one leg and reaching up with alternating hands

Ea • e

By Julie Mills

These simple activities increase your coordination, balance, blood and oxygen flow, and improve your cognitive skills. Did you know that nearly half of those ages 12 to 21 do not participate in vigorous physical activity on a regular basis? Fewer than one-in-four children report getting at least half an hour of any type of daily physical activity and they do not attend any physical education classes. This is outrageous! Our brains can also benefit greatly from getting plenty of sleep. We have to let our bodies and brain recharge and the only way to do that is through a good night’s rest. Sleep is a necessity for our nervous system to work properly. Too little sleep diminishes our ability to concentrate. It also leads to impaired memory and physical performance, and reduces cognitive ability. Prolonged sleep deprivation can also have a direct effect on our personalities, such as producing erratic mood swings. Deep sleep coincides with the release of growth hormones in children and young adults. Many of the body’s cells show increased production and reduced breakdown of proteins during deep sleep. Since proteins are the building blocks needed for cell growth and for the repair of damage from factors like stress and ultraviolet rays, deep sleep may truly be “beauty sleep.” Activity in parts of the brain that control emotions, decision-making, and social interactions is drastically reduced during deep sleep. This suggests that this type of sleep may help maintain optimal emotional and social functioning. Want a better brain? Eat right, exercise, and get some snooze. I feel a nap coming on. Julie Mills is Owner of Body Of Health and Life LLC. www.bodyofhealthandlife.com.

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Helping Families Find True Solutions

Dear Amy, My mother has fallen many times over the last year, and a few months ago she broke her hip. She had surgery and got thru it well. The doctor said that she really shouldn’t go home and would need to have therapy at a local nursing home. I signed the admission paperwork and they transferred her directly from the hospital. They told me that her Medicare and supplemental insurance would cover her for 100 days, and then she would move to a private pay status. She began therapy and has done ok, but she started to get depressed and did not want to participate during her sessions. At her recent care plan meeting, they talked about discharging her in a week or two if she continued to not make progress. I’m super confused! I was under the impression that she would keep getting therapy for 100 days and then stay at the nursing home long term. They are now telling me that they do not have an open bed and I need to find alternative placement or take her home. Please help me figure this out. Thank you for any help you can give. Janet - Snellville Dear Janet, I know that senior care can be overwhelming and when you receive a lot of information all at once during a stressful time, it can be confusing. Let me explain a few key points. Medicare will pay 100% for the first 20 days. After that you or your supplemental insurance pays a co-pay in the amount of $148/day. As your mother gets her skilled nursing or rehab services, the staff is charting and documenting her progress compared to her goals based on her previous level of functioning set at admission. Often a senior will either become non-compliant or simply plateaus with therapy. At that time, based on Medicare guidelines, the decision will be made to discontinue covering the cost of care. Your family does have the right to appeal that decision. If your mother is no longer progressing or is refusing therapy, then she will be discharged from Medicare under the 100 day window. During most admission meetings, it is usually explained that there are private pay long term beds, but there is no guarantee that one will be open at time of discharge. In Atlanta, generally, there are very few open beds and the cost ranges from $6-8,000/month. We encourage families to consider next steps and create a “plan b” in the event that discharge is inevitable. I hope this clarifies Medicare more for you. I am also including a link to a wonderful booklet that explains Medicare in great detail. You are welcome to call me and we can discuss what your mother’s “plan b” might look like now. http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/10153.pdf God Bless, Amy Amy Hentschel, founder of Senior Provisions LLC, offers 20 years of experience to the senior market, helping to guide families through the maze of senior care. Senior Provisions offers personalized planning and referrals at no cost to families. For more information, call 678-925-0223.

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Baseball Is Similar to Life – Part 2

Getting to Third Base By Glenton Ashby College, graduation, and the empty nest make up the third base in our illustration of baseball as life. This can be a difficult stage. Sending kids to college brings changes to both home and financial life. Home life changes because children are not there all the time while in school. Your financial life changes because you may have a whole new set of college-related expenses: everything from tuition, room, and board, to college loan costs and travel costs. After they finish college, kids may be around more than you want if they are still living at home. In this case, ground rules need to be set up that include some financial contribution if they have income. This helps keep the parent-adult child relationship on a proper footing, while allowing the adult child to develop financial independence. Continued on page 14

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Side by Side: On the Frontlines of Brain Injury “Genuine Senior Care”

By Taylor Burns Since the year 2000 there has been one Atlanta nonprofit organization dedicated to rehabilitating those with traumatic brain injuries. The Side by Side Brain Injury Clubhouse in Stone Mountain has been a fixture of the downtown historic area for years, and has helped dozens of victims work their way back into society. I met with Executive Director Cindi Johnson to discuss Side by Side’s history, and how it has given back to those in the most horrible medical situations. Side by Side began in the basement of an office building and grew slowly before moving in 2004 to its current location. It adopted the “clubhouse model,” originally designed in the 1940’s for people with mental illness but later adapted to benefit those with brain damage. The clubhouse, one of 25 around the world, works as a small community where members and their caregivers can network and give each other support. Members can come and go from any clubhouse, and staff from all of the clubhouses meet annually to discuss methods and progress. The staff prepares members for work and for living in society to the degree to which they are able. Side by Side is divided into three “units,” allowing members to help maintain the building. The kitchen unit makes food, shops, and cleans-up after meetings are done, while the maintenance unit oversees grounds keeping. Members in the business unit help staff organize activities, seek donors, and keep in contact with other members. All members have an active role in Side by Side’s growth. Daily meetings are held for members and their caregivers, and there are also weekly activities outside of the clubhouse. Cindi maintains that the “interdependent model” on which the clubhouse is founded helps rehabilitate members, and this would not be possible without help from organizations such as the Shepherd Center and Emory Healthcare. Their referrals have increased Side by Side’s membership by over 25 percent, but lack of staff and finances have stalled further expansion. Though Side by Side and other clubhouses seek increased governmental funding for those with traumatic brain injuries, Cindi says that the nine full-time staff and the three administrators, as well as various interns, need more help from donors and volunteers within the area. Dekalb County and some local EMC’s have helped, but many members attend Side by Side on scholarships and need additional support. As one of seven clubhouses accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, Side by Side offers exceptional care, and, therefore, needs adequate finances to cover members’ expenses. Some of the most generous donations have come from local businesses and clubs in the Lilburn and Stone Mountain areas. The Lilburn Woman’s Club has sponsored events and referred members, and the Stone Mountain Rotary Club has sent volunteers and donations. The clubhouse’s silent auction in March was largely comprised of gifts from businesses around the Stone Mountain and Lilburn historic areas, and the outreach from local people continues to be one of Side by Side’s most valuable resources. If you are interested in volunteering or donating, contact Side by Side at (770) 4699355, or visit the clubhouse at 1001 Main Street in Stone Mountain. The work done at Side by Side directly benefits the lives of so many people throughout the community, and being a part of such a generous organization is an incredibly rewarding experience.

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Tips For Becoming a Superstar Student By Carol Wood 1) Know that you are UNIQUE and SPECIAL!! There is no one just like you! Always try to do the best you possibly can with the talents and skills you have been gifted with. 2) Set short term and long term academic goals. Decide that you will work toward these goals. Your reward will be better grades, a brighter future, and/or the satisfaction of knowing that you did all that you possibly could. 3) Arrive to class on time and prepared with pencil, paper, books, completed homework assignments, and a good attitude. Read before coming to class. You are preparing for a future that is to be fulfilling and prosperous. 4) Listen carefully to your teacher’s explanation of topics. Ask questions when you are confused. Answer questions, even when you are not asked. Take notes. 5) Keep a course notebook, even if one is not required. Organization is essential for learning. 6) Use class time wisely. When given free time at the end of class, start your homework. This is an excellent time to make sure you understand the assignment, and if not, you can ask your teacher for clarification. Do not just sit and wait for the bell to ring. 7) Rework all questions you miss on tests and quizzes the same day they are returned to you. Ask your teacher for assistance if necessary, and bring the missed questions to your next afterschool tutoring session if one is scheduled. 8) Never go on to the next subject or concept until you have mastered the previous ones. Learn from an exam or test after you take it. 9) Get up as early in the morning to study and review material since your mind is rested and easier to fill with information. Do not put off homework or study until late in the evening when the mind is “full” and tired. 10) It is important to have silence when studying. Listening to music or television forces your brain to do two things at once. Non-lyrical melodic music is best if you insist on having something playing. Return to the same place to study every day,

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equipped with a good table or desk and necessary supplies. DO NOT study on the sofa or bed! 11) Do not allow any interruptions, such as phone calls or text messages from friends, while you study. 12) You need to have good lighting with all your resource materials close by. 13) ALWAYS begin study sessions with the material that’s most challenging to you. 14) Obtain the phone number of someone in your class so that you can get assignments and class notes if and when you are absent. 15) Find a “study buddy” to meet with to prepare for quizzes and major tests. This is usually not your best friend, but rather someone you are acquainted with, share the same goals with, and who is responsible. 16) Do homework every night that it is assigned. If you have no homework assignments, review the day’s notes from each class and outline them. This will help you organize your thoughts so you can learn more and do so efficiently. 17) Remember, you have been successful if you have tried your very best! Carol Wood is Owner of Total Learning Concepts www.totallearningconcepts.com.

Getting to Third Base Continued from page 14 Once you are a full-time empty nester, you may find that some expenses disappear completely. Make sure your financial plan is adjusted to put those extra funds to productive use. Focus on paying down any debt. Then work on maximizing retirement saving if you are nearing retirement age. At the same time, begin to work out how you want to live. Be realistic about what your regular expenses will be before you plan those “retirement activities.” Consider the possibility of retirement coming earlier than planned as a result of job loss or disability. Finally, think about long-term care insurance, especially if you are in your fifties. Even if you don’t need it at the moment, at least explore the costs involved. Now you’re rounding third and heading for home. Prepare yourself! Glenton Ashby is the founder/owner of Halcyon Financial Planning, LLC, a fee-only financial planning and Registered Investment Advisor firm. www.HalcyonFP.com.

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

Our Town

Ways to Help Prevent Backpack Injuries

The Right Foundation for Learning and Life.

By Dr. Jeanette Altieri As most parents know, backpacks are a back-to-school necessity. As practical as they are, backpacks have become a leading cause of back and shoulder pain for millions of children and teenagers. Students are simply carrying backpacks that are too heavy. For younger children, this may even have serious long term health implications. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends carrying no more than 10-15% of your child’s body weight. Therefore, a child weighing 100 lbs. should carry no more than 15 lbs. in his/her backpack. Most kids are carrying 20-30 lbs.! Choosing the right pack and wearing it properly is a must. Regular spinal checkups and a few simple preventative measures can also keep your child injury free. Find the right size The backpack should never be wider/longer than your child’s torso and should not hang more than 4 inches below the waist. Choose a lightweight pack with adjustable, padded shoulder straps Non-padded straps are uncomfortable and place unnecessary pressure on the neck and shoulders. Use BOTH straps Lugging a heavy backpack on one shoulder causes an uneven shift of weight, which can lead to neck/muscle spasms, low-back pain, and poor posture. Use a lightweight pack with padded back and/or lumbar cushion An ergonomic design provides increased comfort and support for the spine. Don’t over pack Keep heavy items at the bottom, close to the body, and remove unnecessary items. Encourage your child to report any pain or discomfort they have. Lifting Tip Put the backpack on your desk and then slide your arms into the straps to reduce stress off the back. Dr. Alteri specializes in Pediatrics/Pregnancy at AC Spine & Wellness Center in Lawrenceville. www.acspineandwellness.com.

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Question and Answer with: John Williams/Owner of Unlocked Fitness By Ryan Sauers

John Williams is the owner and operator of Unlocked Fitness, a performance training facility in Snellville, GA. He sits down with Our Town to discuss training and sports in Gwinnett. Our Town: You’re relatively new to Snellville, right? How long has Unlocked Fitness been around? John Williams: We just held our Grand Opening for Unlocked in April, but I’ve lived and trained athletes in Gwinnett County for 8 years, and I’ve been in the industry for almost 20. OT: What level of athletes do you train? JW: We work with all levels. We’ve got some clients who are just regular people, looking to get in better shape. But we also work with serious athletes: kids in high school who want to maximize their performance and maybe earn college scholarships in their sport; professional athletes; and even Olympic level athletes. OT: Oh, wow. Can you give us any names of the professional athletes you’ve worked with? JW: (chuckles) Sorry, we definitely have some confidentiality rules here. I can tell you that I’ve worked with players from the Braves, the Falcons, and the Hawks, as well as some out-of-town teams. All together my athletes have won over 14 medals, accumulated 3 world championship titles, and set 2 national records. But that’s all I can really tell you. OT: Well, it was worth a shot. What kind of training do you do? Do you only train individuals, or do you work with teams, too? JW: Some of both. We work with individuals, of course, but sometimes we’ll

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work with full teams in high school sports or adult sports, as well. Many coaches see the benefits in training their athletes off the field. OT: What are the benefits? JW: We’ve seen huge reductions in injuries in the teams we’ve worked with. You can have the most talented athletes, but when they’re hurt, the whole team hurts. Preventing injuries is so important in team sports. We’ve also seen some great results in increased performance and stamina. OT: Why would an individual, who isn’t on any sports team, work with a personal trainer, as opposed to just joining a regular gym? JW: When you work out at the gym, you tend to do the same thing over and over. You’re getting exercise, but you aren’t challenging your body. You aren’t working towards a goal. At Unlocked, we set challenging but realistic goals for our clients. We push them much harder than they would push themselves, and they are usually surprised to learn how much they really can do. OT: What’s different about Unlocked Fitness? What do you do that other personal trainers don’t? What do you offer that’s unique? JW: We stress not only maximizing performance, but injury recovery, and, more importantly, injury prevention. We do some of this through electrical muscle stimulation (EMS). OT: What is electronic muscle stimulation? JW: Electric muscle stimulation is the process of using an electrical signal to excite a nerve which in turn causes a muscle to contract or “fire.” Because of a variety of reasons, our ability to activate or fully contract these muscles may be compromised, so by using EMS we can positively influence that behavior. OT: What’s next for Unlocked Fitness? JW: Our main objective is to advance sport performance through advanced training of the athlete and quality education for coaches and parents.

For more information call 678-825-2049 • ourtownmag.org

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