JUNE 2013: Our Town Gwinnett/NE Dekalb Monthly Magazine

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town

June 2013

Lilburn l Lawrenceville l Snellville l Grayson l Stone Mountain

Meet Members of the Brookwood Sports Association

5 On the Cover: Brookwood Sports Associations: All About the Community

9 A Senior Moment: Decisions to Consider 13 A Dynasty Renewed: Parkview High School Girls Soccer Are State Champions

18 Chaplain’s Corner: Friendship Makes All the Difference

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When: Thursday, June 20th from 6:00-7:30 PM Where: at our office - 2176 Oak Road, Suite D, Snellville, GA 30078 Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by Monday, June 17th.

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Family Lifestyle News M agazine

— An EndResultz Company

Publisher Ryan T. Sauers Creative Director Elsie Olson Cover Photography Tracy Sammon Contributing Writers

Susan Cadley Craig Camuso Richard Carlin, M.D. Dr. Louis Cavallo Reverend Tom Elliott Terie Hansen Amy Hentschel Ayana Knowles Stefanie Lamp’l Kristin McCabe Julie Mills Pam Walker Carol C. 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

IN THIS ISSUE

Our Town

5 On the Cover: Brookwood Sports Associations: All About the Community 6 One Man’s Opinion 7 June Calendar 8 Boredom Busters for Family Trips 9 A Senior Moment: Decisions to Consider 10 If You Had No Medication, What Would You Do to Heal?

10 Are You Nurturing Your Dog’s Fears?

11 Help and Prevention for Knee and Joint Pain 12 Travel to Give Back!

13 A Dynasty Renewed:

Parkview High School Girls Soccer Are State Champions

14 How to Calm and Encourage a Stressed-Out Student 15 Summertime & All the Time…Protect Your Eyes 15 Gossip: Don’t Mess Up Cute 16 Thinking About Selling Your Home?

18 Chaplain’s Corner Friendship Makes All the Difference

678-825-2049 info@endresultz.com www.endresultz.com

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Our Town

On the Cover

Brookwood Sports Associations: All About the Community

By Craig Camuso

football teams have been competitive, traveling all over the county to play other associations.

One of the strongest fabrics that binds the Brookwood community is the active and Bethesda Park is a very active area throughout the year, but especially in the spring, successful youth sports associations. The baseball, football, basketball, soccer, and, where it also houses the area’s baseball fields and soccer complex. lately, lacrosse programs all seek to provide a positive playing experience for the youth Since 1987, the Brookwood Athletic Association of Baseball and Softball (BAAB) who participate in the many leagues that are offered. For nearly three decades, that has moved thousands of boys and girls through its system. Matt Norman, the current has certainly been the case.

BAAB president, leads a group of 18 board members who organize not only spring, “We want to provide boys and girls with an opportunity to develop good sportsbut fall seasons as well. manship and physical fitness in addition to teaching skills and techniques of the game “There are few experiences I’ve enjoyed more than watching my children as well as of football and cheerleading,” says Tony Chavis, the president of the Brookwood those of my friends ‘grow up’ through BAAB,” says Norman, who has three boys of Football Association (BFA), which was founded his own currently playing at BAAB. “The most in 1994. “But not only learning the sport, we rewarding are the ones where you are able to see hope they learn teamwork, have fun and leave joy and accomplishment in a child’s eyes when the program with positive memories that can they practice hard to achieve a goal no matter help them down the road in their lives.” how big or small. The lessons learned on an BFA oversaw 350 football players and 235 athletic field go way beyond sports.” cheerleaders from ages 5 to 13 during the 2012 The 2013 spring season, which began in season. Chavis has been involved with the February, produced 921 participants in baseball Association for 8 years, and, with three boys and softball. playing, his involvement has been extensive.

For Norman, getting involved in the leaderHe’s headed the 26-member Board for the last ship at BAAB was a gradual process. But knowfour years. ing his children would be involved for many “The Board works hard to try and do things years convinced him a larger role was calling. “I Brookwood players (l to r): Ray Gann (lacrosse), Sara Camuso the right way, but it’s [the] volunteers that really wanted to have a positive influence on my kids make it successful for our kids,” he says. “Not (cheerleading), Davis Camuso (baseball), Mary Margaret Dyer (soccer), and show them the value of creating change only coaching, but trainers, team moms and Caroline Pagoaga (lacrosse) and Quincy Jenkins (football) through participation, not just sitting in your Adults (l to r): Tony Chavis (Brookwood Football Association), chair and watching the tremendous amount of dads, and so many more are important.”

And while most teams play their home games Heather Spyke (Brookwood Basketball Association) and Carlos Pagoaga work someone else is doing.” at Bronco Field at Bethesda Park, Brookwood’s (Brookwood LaCrosse Association) Continued on page 17

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PAGE 5

One Man’s Opinion

By Ryan T. Sauers Wow, time flies. Can you believe it is already June? It seems like we were just ringing in the New Year. This is our team’s third Our Town Magazine and the experience has been nothing short of amazing. It is everything I had envisioned and more. Our community is stronger than you will ever know. Our Town Magazine is blessed with strong support, super feedback, and more. Thanks, Gwinnett. The good news is we are only beginning and have so much to do. The sky is the limit of where we can go together. We are in the process of overhauling our website to make your online experience better, so pardon our progress. Also, we will continue to invest in the magazine and improve it every way possible.

Summer is here, and that means many of our educators and children have a much needed break from school. To those in the private sector this means less time in traffic.

By the way, my sincere appreciation goes out to our great educators. We are fortunate to live in a county with such a strong school system. Summer has always been my favorite time of the year. The days are long and the weather is nice. Beaches, vacations, and swimming begin to come to mind.

Thanks to our new and current advertisers and writers who are growing with us.

And thanks to my great Our Town team. Also, we are offering an incentive to anyone who brings us a new advertiser. Email me for more information if you have a lead.

In this issue, we have some great stories as our focus is on providing you with great content. This is what a reader wants, right?

You will continue to see good news in this publication. With the recent devastation in Oklahoma, I am again reminded that we all need to hear about good people, events, and news. So, enjoy this June issue of Our Town. Have a great month and beginning of summer.

And remember: this is a great town, this is your town, and this is OUR TOWN!

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June Calendar

Peachtree Corners Festival June 9, 2013 The Corners Parkway & Woodhill Drive Gwinnett Braves Vs. Rochester Red Wings Peachtree Corners June 5, 2013 www.peachtreecornersfestival.org Coolray Field Family Friendly Festival, Lawrenceville Sat 10am-6pm 770-335-5317 www.gwinnettbraves.com Dance & Arts Showcase Presents AAA Baseball Tues-Thurs 6:05pm, “Dance Thru Outer Space” 678-277-0300 June 9, 2013 Performing Arts Center At Gwinnett Ctr Wera Cycle Jam Duluth June 6-9, 2013 www.gwinnettcenter.com Road Atlanta www.danceandarts.com/#/dance_recital Braselton Dance Recital, 11am, 1:30pm, 4pm, www.roadatlanta.com 770-813-7500 The Exciting Sport Of Motorcycle Racing 1-800-849-RACE Atlantafest 2013

Kiss 104.1 Family Soul Fest June 1, 2013 Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain www.kiss1041fm.com www.stonemountainpark.com Ultimate Family Fun, 2pm-10pm, 770-498-5690 Real/Unreal/Surreal June 1, 2013 Kudzu Art Zone Norcross www.kudzuartzone.org Exhibit 11am-4pm, 770-840-9844 Onion Man’s Summer Harvest Festival Keep It Legal!

June 1-9, 2013 Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center Norcross www.lionhearttheatre.org A Collection Of Short Plays, Fri-Sat 7:30pm, Sun 2pm 770-885-0425 Whistle Stop Farmers Market June 4, 2013 Buchanan Street At Thrasher Park Norcross www.norcrossfarmersmarket.com Farmers Market - Voted One Of The Top 5 In Georgia, 4pm-8pm, 770-448-2122

Norcross Summer Concert Series June 7, 2013 Thrasher Park Norcross www.aplacetoimagine.com Live Concert: Bridges: Ultimate Eagles Tribute Band 7:30-9:30pm, 678-421-2025 Locomotive Celebration June 8-9, 2013 Southeastern Railway Museum Duluth www.srmduluth.org/About/Events.shtml Festival, 10am-5pm, 770-476-2013

June 12-15, 2013 Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain www.atlantafest.com www.stonemountainpark.com The Southeast’s Largest Christian Music Fest! Wed 6pm-10pm; Thurs, Fri, Sat 9am-11pm, 800-783-8839 770-498-5690 Romeo And Juliet June 12-16, 21-23, 28-30, 2013 New London Theatre Snellville www.newlondontheatre.org Theatre, Fri & Sat 8pm, Sun 2:30pm 770-559-1484

Bluesberry Festival & Brewfest June 15, 2013 Downtown Historic Norcross www.aplacetoimagine.com Blues Festival, 4pm-10:30pm 770-448-2122 A Night At The Wax Museum June 16, 2013 New Dawn Theater Duluth www.newdawntheatercompany.com Theatre, Sun 2pm 678-887-5015 Best Of The Best Invitational June 21-22, 2013 Suwanee Sports Academy Suwanee www.suwaneesportsacademy.com Basketball – Boys 10U-13U 678-541-0179 Juanes June 26, 2013 Arena At Gwinnett Center Duluth www.gwinnettcenter.com Latin Concert 8Pm, 770-813-7500 www.ticketmaster.com Moonlight And Music Concert Series June 28, 2013 Gwinnett Historic Courthouse Lawn Lawrenceville Free Live Music, 8pm 678-226-2639 www.visitlawrenceville.com

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By Kristin McCabe You load everyone into the car and within minutes you hear, “Mom, are we there yet?” Road trips with young children can be a little bumpy. According to Dr. Gloria Julius, VP of Education at Primrose Schools, pre-planning can help take the anxiety out of summer travel.

Plan ahead. Prepare a week before departure. Build excitement and anticipation with a countdown calendar. Tracing the route on a map, or researching your location on the internet, gives your child a greater sense of control. Also, research familyfriendly stops along the way.

Go to the library. Check out books on CD. If you can’t find CDs, check out the book and record it. If your child doesn’t get car sick, take some books with you. Here are a few suggestions: Arthur’s Family Vacation by Marc Brown Clifford Takes a Trip by Norman Bridwell Hello Ocean by Pam Muñoz Ryan Pack surprises. Pack stickers, playing cards, crayons, activity books, and other travel games.

Stop frequently. Take breaks. Even though you want to get there, stop to stretch and use the restroom. At lunch, consider choosing a restaurant with a playground to burn energy.

Make a Scrapbook. Save ticket stubs, postcards, and brochures. Your family will be able to relive the memories for years. Use a spiral notebook and a glue stick.

Create a Scavenger Hunt. Make a list of items to look for along the way: a yellow house, cow, purple car, etc. Have an alphabet hunt looking for letters A to Z on signs.

Sing songs. Take your family’s favorite CDs or iPod with you. Include some of your own music along with children’s songs.

Summer vacations can make an impression that will last a lifetime.

To learn more about Primrose School of Five Forks, visit them at 3030 River Drive in Lawrenceville, or call (770)985-0028.

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ACROSS 5. “Spy vs. Spy” magazine ACROSS 1. Depart suddenly 57. Bubkes 27. Debut of March 3, “Mona ___” 1. Depart7. suddenly 58. Mathematician6. “To your health!”

1923 Mozart’s “L’___ del Cairo” 7. “Mona11.___” 62. Schuss, e.g. 7. Flexible 28. Wood sorrels 14. “L’___ Seed-like 11. Mozart’s del Cairo” 63. Nonexistent 8. Anger 29. Chest muscle 9. NY Springs 32. Car accessory 15. Persia, now 14. Seed-like 64. Deserved 10. Kind of recording “___ any drop to drink”: Coleridge 15. Persia,16.now 65. “Absolutely!”

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DOWNabbr. ___ angel but Love”: 18. Successful Shakespeare runners, for short Tennis 20. “Star 22.

Trek” rank:great Abbr.Gibson 1. Welfare, with “the” Shoefor fashion 21. Likely24. venue 2. 20-20, e.g. 23. Not just “a”39. Forbidding 24. Literally, “king” 27. Accompanies tails Jackman, abbr.

3. Coffeehouse orders 40. Comrade in arms 25. Checker, perhaps ManGibson of many words 4. “Aladdin” prince 22. Tennis30.great 45. Fold, spindle or mutilate 26. “How ___!”46. Ammonia ligand 24. Shoe 31. fashion Mountaineer’s tool 5. “Spy vs. Spy” magazine 27. Debut of March 3, 1923 27. Accompanies 32. Fan tails 6. “To your health!”

47. Auditory 28. Wood sorrels 30. Man of words 7. Flexible 33.many Appear 48. Searched for gold 29. Chest muscle 31. Mountaineer’s tool acceptable8. Anger 49. Wuss 36. Computer 32. Fan 41. “C’___ la vie!”

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Ring bearer, maybe In-flight info, for short 52. Security 24.

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Our Town

A Senior Moment: Decisions to Consider

By Amy Hentschel Dear Amy, My father passed in January, and my mother, who is 84, is still in pretty good health. But I have noticed that she is more forgetful. I’m not sure if she is just still adjusting to my father being gone, or perhaps she has dementia and I didn’t know about it. I worry about what will happen to her if her memory really starts to decline.

I noticed last week that she left her medication sitting out on the counter from the morning, and when I asked her about it she got defensive and told me she was just about to take it. I’m really worried about what else she might be forgetting. She gets upset about the idea of having strangers come into the house. How do I approach her about getting some help in the home?

Kathy-Lilburn, GA Dear Kathy, First of all, I am so sorry for the loss of your father. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your mother. I’m assuming that they had been married for many years, and it is a hard adjustment for a spouse to lose a partner in life. They have been propping each other up as support and working together over the years as a team. My first thought as I was reading your email was that perhaps your mother has had some memory loss for a while and your dad had been helping her function throughout her day. Now that he is gone, coupled with the additional stress of his death, she may be not able to get through her day as easily. I first recommend calling her family doctor and making an appointment for her with you. It can be a general checkup that gives the doctor an opportunity to ask her some questions about medicine, nutrition, and overall mood. He then can assess her degree of memory loss and safety. Call the doctor’s office in advance of the appointment, and let them know your concerns.

Because of her distrust of strangers in the home, homecare may not be the best option.

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programs for memory loss, keeping in mind her future care needs. After her doctor makes an overall assessment, bring up your concerns to your mother in a loving way.

She might get defensive, but approach the subject of moving as an opportunity for her to be around other ladies her age and to give up the stress of maintaining a house alone. I suggest that you start with a tour and lunch, and let her know that this is just about gathering information and finding out what options are out there. If she is very resistant, and the doctor feels that she is still safe at home, table the issue for now. At least you have planted the seed and begun the conversation. Keep checking in on her regularly, and let me know if you have any other questions. My home assessments include safety checks and I introduce a third party to help with future conversations.

You are not alone and I will keep you in my prayers.

God Bless!

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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If You Had No Medication, What Would You Do to Heal?

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WE DEVELOP YOUR CHILD’S Contact information: EXCELLENCE! Bruno Kalonji – Head Coach •SOCCER 678-789-2961 Visit our website: www.kalonjisoccer.org

PAGE 10

Throughout my massage therapist education, I learned that massage therapy has been around for literally thousands of years. Yet it has only been since the invention of vaccinations that massage has not been considered a mainstream form of pain relief.

In this day and age, most people consider massage therapy as “pampering” instead of a form of therapy. However, a painful area can experience relief with simple touch.

When we got hurt as kids, we ran to mom and all she had to do was give us a kiss and we felt better. It’s simple: touch sends a “pleasure and comfort signal” to the brain, which, in turn, relieves the pain. Touch also gets to the root of the problem instead of masking it with medication. It releases trigger points and contracted muscles. Wouldn’t you want a more permanent solution to your pain than popping pills all day?

Another form of natural healing can be found with herbs and homemade remedies.

Look at vinegar. It is packed with essential amino acids and healthful enzymes, and contains the healthy goodness of apples concentrated into one teaspoon! It has been proven to cure a variety of ailments.

I encourage you to look at how many medications you have in your medicine cabinet. We have them for everything from headaches to toe fungus -- literally from head to toe! Why? Most of the time, our aches and pains are a result of our own abuse and lifestyle.

Working too hard and eating unhealthy foods are common examples. Here are some simple but impactful tips to help: 1. Get into a stretching routine. Notice your posture and be mindful of the strain you put on your body. Concentrate on those areas that are causing pain. Most of the time, if you stretch on a daily basis, you can relieve back, shoulder, and neck pain.

2. Drink an abundance of water. If we do not have water to lubricate our joints and help our muscles become more pliable, they will draw up and cause pain.

3. Plan ahead. Prepare boxed meals and put them in a cooler for those crazy days when you have to run around non-stop. This will help you stay away from the drivethru and save you money at the same time.

4. Incorporate raw fruits and vegetables into your daily diet. These will give your cells what they need to help the body work optimally and to help improve immune function. Drink a breakfast shake full of fruits and veggies.

5. Get moving! This does not mean you have to join a gym. Just do an activity you love. This might include gardening, walking, helping out at a local shelter, using exercise CD’s, or just dancing around the house to your favorite music.

6. Go to bed at a reasonable time. Sleep is crucial to good health. Our bodies need time to recharge, especially as we get older.

Continued on page 17

Every great soccer player is born out of excellence.

“Excellence is not an act but a habit. The

By Terie Hansen things you do the most are the things you will do best” ~ Marva Collins When we see people get frightened, our first impulse as humans is to comfort them.

At Kalonji Soccer, we“Everything employ a unique We might tell them, will betechnique okay,” or, “Don’t worry about it.” We might that promotes repetition to achieve en-their hand, pat them, or stroke their put our arm around them, give them aphysical hug, hold durance, mental discipline, flexibility and agility head, all in an effort to soothe them and make them feel better. All of these generally while building mental determination. work because we can use reason and logic with most humans.

When a dogour is fearful of something someone, what is our first impulse? To do During camp, your child willorlearn, thepractice same thing, right?

This is because we are human! But the funny thing, though, is and gain the skills that will increase that the dog is NOT human!

So when we stroke, pat, hug, kiss, and speak in soothing their opportunity to grow into tones to our dogAnwhen he is in a frightened state of mind, what he understands is, “I Elite Soccer Star! like you being frightened,” and, “Keep feeling that way.” You are nurturing the very behavior you don’t want.Contact information: Kalonji Since this is clearly notBruno your intention, how do you help relieve his fears? One word: Head Coach desensitization. He needs more exposure to that person or thing that he is afraid of. It’s the same for people. “Do678-789-2961 the things you fear, then the death of fear is certain” - Brian Tracy. No truer words were ever spoken.

To be continued… Visit our website: Terie Hansen, Professional Dog Trainer, Pet Sitter, and Owner at Good Dog! Coaching & Pet Care, may be www.kalonjisoccer.org reached at 404-422-9832 info@gooddogcoaching.com www.gooddogcoaching.com.

Are You Nurturing Your Dog’s Fears?

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

Our Town

Help and Prevention for Knee and Joint Pain

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By Dr. Louis Cavallo Pain in any joint can be frustrating as it affects our daily lives and activities. No matter what the cause is, being proactive is key because the sooner you address the problem, the better.

One of the major causes of joint pain is improper movement in the joint. A joint’s job is to move; but all joints are susceptible to becoming “fixed” in their range of motion. For instance, the knee needs to rotate and glide back and forth. But if it gets stuck at any point, the abnormal motion begins to create inflammation and pain to alert you that there is a problem. Most doctors treat this with anti-inflammatory drugs, covering up the problem and eventually leading to arthritis and joint replacement surgery.

One way to avoid this is by correcting the movement of the joint and restoring normal motion. Correcting the underlying cause eliminates the pain and helps avoid more serious problems in the future.

Another treatment we use is natural Supartz injections. Supartz is sodium hyaluronate, which is the lubricant and shock absorber in your joints. If this is depleted, the joint becomes inflamed and eventually arthritic. By using Supartz we are able to give the body back what it needs to protect and cushion the joint. This is like taking a vitamin that you are deficient in. Cortisone/steroid injections, on the other hand, mask the problem, which can lead to arthritis. Steroids also come with side effects, such as weakened tendons and osteoporosis.

Here are some other ways to protect your joints: maintain a healthy weight, get moderate exercise, wear supportive shoes, stretch, and eat more veggies to supply the vitamins and minerals needed for joint health.

To learn more about natural joint therapy, contact AC Spine & Wellness Center, 770-513-8922, or visit www.acspineandwellness.com.

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Travel to Give Back!

By Pam Walker Have you ever wanted to travel and give something back? I know that I have! Several years ago I helped build a clinic in a small town outside of Lhasa, Tibet. Another year I helped put in a pump for a well in the Andean Highlands of Peru.

There are many organizations that help others in the world: Doctors without Borders, Volunteer Vacations, the Sierra Club, and National Geographic, to name a few. The “hot” thing in travel these days is “VOLUNTOURISM”. These trips include everything from building a monastery in Mustang, to collecting butterflies in the Amazon. On many of these trips you pay for the opportunity to stay in a local village in humble surroundings, get up at dawn, eat with the locals, and work until sundown. Some trips last for a few days, while others last for two weeks.

Only a few organizations reward you for the honor of traveling with them. One such organization is GiveGetGo. This great little company not only gives you 50% back in charitable tax receipts, but they spend half the days working and the other half learning about the country and visiting with the people. Volunteers have built an orphanage in Tanzania and a school near Antigua, Guatemala.

GiveGetGo says, “From landscaping to nailing down boards, volunteers will benefit from the overwhelmingly good feeling that comes with seeing results of one’s own efforts. Interact with the children and know that your contribution will change the lives of so many.”

Future plans are for projects in India and South America and possibly Tibet. So join the trend to give back, and feel good about you and your next vacation.

Pam Walker is a Virtuoso travel consultant and can be reached at Walker Adventures pliwalker@earthlink.net. You can follow her travels by visiting www.pamwalkers.blogspot.com

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Our Town

A Dynasty Renewed: Parkview High School Girls Soccer Are State Champions Q and A with Head Coach Judson Hamby

By Stefanie Lamp’l Our Town Mag (OTM): What contribution did the four freshmen playing on the team make to the girls’ varsity soccer team at Parkview?

Judson Hamby (JH): I knew that the freshman class coming into Parkview was going to help us this year. They are great group of girls and at one point during the season all 4 freshmen girls were starting for us. Katie Hickman and Emma Carlson scored probably 50% of our goals this season.

OTM: What were your realistic expectations for this team going into this season?

JH: Every year the program sets high expectations on the field and in the classroom. Our goals going into the season included winning the Region and getting into the second round of the playoffs.

OTM: You have now won four state championships. How does this one compare to the others?

JH: We are very excited for the team and for the school. Every year it is always different when it comes to winning a state title. Any time you play for a championship, it’s a huge blessing and experience that the players and I will never forget.

OTM: What were you thinking when the championship game against Harrison went to Penalty Kicks?

JH: Going into the State Finals and playing Harrison, we knew we were going to

face a very disciplined and well-coached team, and they definitely did not disappoint.

I was very proud of my players for their preparation the last month during the playoffs on kicks. Megan Wiley, our goalkeeper, did a great job in that moment taking risks, and that is exactly what you need to do in those shootouts.

OTM: With a young roster and a 2013 state championship, do you think expectations will be too high for you to repeat in 2014?

JH: The program will celebrate this memory until September, and at that point the 2014 season will bring new goals and new challenges. The players and the staff do a good job every year of moving forward, focusing on the now, and motivating the players to raise the bar even more.

OTM: What characteristics and traits would you use to describe this year’s championship team?

JH: The team really played like a team. Each game we had key players step up in massive moments to help us be successful; but everyone did their job. They aggressively went after every challenge we faced and ultimately believed nothing could stand in their way. They were extremely disciplined and very coachable.

OTM: Based on all of the Parkview Girls soccer success in the last decade, is there a culture of winning that is expected?

JH: In setting up a program, you have to have foundational standards that will never be broken. We have been blessed with great coaches in the history of this program: Karl Bostick, Mark Albertus, and Todd Yelton before me. They laid the foundation of discipline and hard work. We have been blessed with super senior classes over the years that have done everything possible to model excellence and reflect what the program should look like to the younger program. The seniors every year, including the 2013 senior class, have always laid their heart and soul on the field every game to raise the bar for the program.

OTM: What is one thing you could share with Gwinnett County readers that they would not likely know about Parkview Girls soccer?

JH: They are brilliant students in the classroom, which carries over on the field. We have won the NSCAA Academic Award for high team GPA, twelve years in a row.

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How to Calm and Encourage a Stressed-Out Student

By Carol C. Wood

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It’s summer so your student is likely to be much more relaxed now than a few weeks ago, and so are you! Since there are many weeks before the next school year begins, now is a good time for parents to plan on how to prevent their student from experiencing an overwhelming amount of stress when classes begin again. Here are a few suggestions: • Remind your student that if he/she has worked to the best of his/her ability and acted in a responsible way, then this is enough for you. Grades are not as important as effort and the amount of responsibility and accountability the student accepts for him or herself.

• Reassure your student that you are happy if he/she has worked to the best of his/ her ability. You may be surprised to know that many students have cried in my office and confided in me that they are stressed because they feel they have disappointed their parents. Some students will even stop trying because they believe that nothing they do is good enough for their parents.

• Encourage your student to take on a course load that aligns with his/her own academic and career goals and abilities. Have realistic expectations based on academic levels of achievement.

• Remember, your children are different from you, and it is important to accept, appreciate, and encourage their differences. Don’t force your interests on them; rather allow and encourage them to express and pursue their own career interests and objectives. This will foster increased confidence, self-esteem, and motivation in your children.

• Assure your student that you are willing to locate a trained educational professional to teach him/her efficient and effective study skills methods and/or course The Avenue WebbDoing Gin so will send the message that he/she content if your student desires assistance.

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GA • DO NOT compareLawrenceville, your children academically to one another or to other stul www.urbanflats.net 678.344.2022 dents. Rather, recognize them as the individuals they are and applaud their admirable and positive traits and skills.

• Encourage your children to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses only in academic areas in which they excel and/or have the greatest interest. Additionally, encourage your student to take no more than two AP courses during any given semester.

These are college level classes and they can become an overwhelming source of stress for high school students when juggling their other courses, athletics, and extracurricular activities.

Lastly, here are a few personal additional recommendations: • Find activities to participate in this summer and on weekends that provide fun and enjoyment for the entire family. Doing so reinforces that family is important, enriches relationships with parents and siblings, and helps put in perspective the balance between quality of life and character building and academics.

• Provide and support opportunities to participate in some sort of physical exercise which will allow the reduction of anxiety and an increase in endorphin levels. Also, provide and support opportunities to participate in extracurricular activities, such as drama and art, since doing so can provide your student with a therapeutic emotional outlet.

• Provide opportunities for your student to enrich and practice his/her faith. Doing so will help keep priorities in perspective and provide a source of strength, comfort, and hope for the future.

Carol Wood is Owner of Total Learning Concepts.

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Our Town

•

Gossip: Don’t Mess Up Cute

By Susan Cadley

As I was standing in line behind a young girl at a museum recently, I noticed the statement on her t-shirt. It read: “Pretty is as pretty does. My Mama said, Don’t mess up cute by acting ugly”.

What a powerful statement for young girls to embrace. It opens the door to clear communication and integrity in their lives. When we communicate clearly and honestly, we have a greater chance of receiving what we desire and we deepen our relationships. Otherwise, gossip keeps us skating on the surface of relationships and life.

When I find myself listening to someone talk about another person, and the conversation moves into the gossip realm, I find myself: 1) defending the person being gossiped about; 2) feeling very uncomfortable; and 3) wanting to exit the conversation quickly.

Gossip is a passive form of problem solving as well as a false and temporary ego booster. Gossip creates a false sense of power over someone and it can point toward insecurities, fears, and wounds. Gossip is a teacher. It points out where one’s growing edge is. And, it’s like any other addiction that feeds the ego: we need more and more as it will never fill us up because it doesn’t stick. Only inner integrity sticks.

If someone is gossiping to you about someone else, be assured he/she will at some point talk about you. Why not stand in your inner integrity and stop gossip in its tracks?

Here are some ways to handle gossipmongers: 1) Either exit the conversation, or change the subject.

2) Make a suggestion that the gossipers need to take their issues directly to the person they are gossiping about. This is clear, truthful communication that gets us out of a messy triangular discussion.

2) Take the most direct approach. Tell the gossiper you don’t feel comfortable discussing someone else without that person being present. There is a chance the gossiper will get angry with you because you are not colluding with him/her. However, you will lose an acquaintance, not a real friend. A real friend shares his/her feelings about what you said, and he/she will stick with you to work things out. An acquaintance won’t.

So don’t mess up cute! You’ll keep your inner integrity intact, and you’ll feel good right down to your soul.

Susan Cadley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor, is available for couples/adult individual counseling and creativity workshops in Suwanee, GA 678-296-1278, www. coachingforyoursoul.com.

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By Richard Carlin, M.D. Summer is almost here and with the increased likelihood of us going outdoors, our eyes will be exposed to the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays have been linked to macular degeneration, while UVB rays are associated with cataracts, pterygiums (growths that start on the conjunctiva and can grow across the cornea), wrinkles, and skin cancers. Most damage occurs over the years, but some can occur more quickly. UV exposure is influenced by the time of day. At noon the dose can be 10 times greater than the dose at 9:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. Do you remember your sore, gritty eyes after a day at the beach? That was a corneal burn from ultraviolet exposure. Wearing sunglasses protects the eyes and the sensitive skin around them.

The same risk applies when using tanning beds, so be sure to protect your eyes from indoor UV light as well.

Here are some things to keep in mind: • Select wraparound sunglasses that block 100 percent of UVA and UVB rays.

• Wear a broad-brimmed hat in addition to sunglasses.

• Don’t rely on contact lenses alone. Even if your lenses have UV protection, you need sunglasses, too.

• Don’t be fooled by clouds. The sun›s rays can pass through haze and thin clouds.

Sun damage to the eyes can occur anytime during the year, not just in the summertime, so be sure to wear sunglasses whenever you›re outside.

• Never look directly at the sun. Looking directly at the sun, including during an eclipse, can damage the eye›s retina from solar radiation.

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Thinking About Selling Your Home?

By Ayana Knowles Thinking about selling your home? Call an agent and do it today! Right now homes are in short supply, so buyers are grabbing them fast. Take a quick look around your community and you probably won’t see many “For Sale” signs. Don’t wait until you have competition from your neighbors. If you’re the only house for sale in your neck of the woods, this means your home will get a lot of buyer traffic and your home will sell fast. According to GAMLS homes in Snellville priced from $275,000 to $300,000 sold in 61 days, and homes priced from $225,000 to $250,000 sold in 52 days! What are you waiting for?

We are in a seller’s market. This means there are very few homes available for purchase, yet there are hundreds of people who want to buy a home. Therefore, sellers have the advantage. Today’s buyers know that the competition is stiff, so they are attending open houses with pre-approval letters and earnest money in hand. These buyers are taking advantage of the great first-time buyer programs and interest rates that are still in the 3’s and 4’s.

Are you trying to sell without an agent? Did you know that typically homes sold by real estate agents sell for nearly 43 percent more than the typical “For Sale by Owner”?

Ironically, most homeowners who choose to sell their homes themselves are trying to save on the commission. The reality is, these homeowners would have walked away with more money had they let an agent do the hard work for them! When you’re ready to sell, I’m on your side for much more than putting a sign in the yard. I get your home sold for the most money, in the least amount of time, and with the least hassle for you, through my knowledge of: • how to set a price that will attract the most buyers • features buyers expect from the homes in your neighborhood • marketing techniques that will bring the most buyer traffic to your home Thinking of buying? Start the process now. Have your lender review your finances and provide you with a valuable pre-approval letter which tells the amount your lender will loan you for the purchase of a home.

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Our Town

Brookwood Sports Association Continued from page 5 The Brookwood Basketball Association (BBA), like other sports, offers opportunities for children of all ages. This past winter, 512 boys and girls from ages 6 – 18 participated in one of the many divisions. From co-ed leagues for younger players, all the way up to high school age, the BBA partners with local schools, Brookwood Elementary School, Crews Middle School, and Five Forks Middle School, to offer competitive, yet fun, basketball. The championship games for many of the divisions are played at the Brookwood High School gym, which is a treat for the players.

“Without the dedicated support of our schools, there would not be a BBA,” says Heather Spyke, the Association’s president, who is in her third year on the board.

“Their partnership is just another example of the strong community spirit that exists throughout the Brookwood area.”

BBA also runs a fall league that begins in August and, just like the other sports, volunteers are always in need.

Established in 2002, the Georgia Futball Club has experienced tremendous success.

Georgia FC competes against other clubs within the state through the Georgia Youth Soccer Association. Playing matches at Bethesda, the Georgia FC operates under the Club System utilized around the world in which every player in each age group has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The system begins with a recreational league, and subsequently allows players with higher skill sets to advance through the system to play at a very high level that is consistently being updated to meet the needs of its players.

One of the fastest growing sports in the county is lacrosse, and the Brookwood Lacrosse Association is doing its best to keep up with the pace. Formed in 2011, over 300 players have participated in the program since its inception. Teams run from the 1st through the 12th grade and compete in two leagues, depending on age.

Like football, baseball, and soccer, the league plays its games at Bethesda Park. In just a few short years, the BLA is making its mark. “When it comes to sportsmanship from our players, coaches and parents, we are the best in the county,” commented Carlos Pagoaga, the BLA president. “There is a tradition of excellence at Brookwood

both on and off the field, and while lacrosse is a relatively new sport for this cluster, our teams are quickly becoming competitive.”

All of the association heads agree that parent involvement is what makes their organizations thrive. In addition to the support of the school system, the willingness of local businesses to participate in the sports is vital. “Local businesses are instrumental in many different ways,” Norman says. “From team sponsorships to the services they provide, we would not be nearly as strong without the dedication and support of a multitude of generous and giving local business leaders.”

The associations and their leaders envision a bright future as well. Spyke would love to see a new facility be constructed that is dedicated to youth basketball and Pagoaga wants to continue to grow the number of players for lacrosse, especially in the younger age groups.

Each association has a website where interested parents can learn more about these highly successful youth sports programs: Football – bfabroncos.com, Baseball – baabonline.com, Basketball – brookwoodbasketball.com, Lacrosse – broncolax.com, Soccer – georgiafc.com

What Would You Do to Heal?

Continued from page 10 7. Cut out most processed, fried, and sugary foods. They drain the body and cause illness.

8. Use natural remedies when you can. There are multiple books and websites that have wonderful ideas.

Next time you reach for a pain reliever, sinus medication, or stomach meds, take a look at what you are doing to cause these conditions. Take the time to remedy the situation naturally before running to the medicine cabinet. Try to prevent issues by taking the steps now to stay healthy. Remember to use massage therapy when needed to work out those burning, chronic aches and pains.

Spend the time and effort on your well-being. You are worth it!!

Julie Mills, CMT, is owner of Body of Health and Life LLC, for more information visit www.bodyofhealthandlife.com

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Our Town

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

PAGE 17

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I have a friend I have known for many years. We met at Salem Campground where our family vacations every July, and we have been friends ever since. Throughout elementary and high school, he was always around.

When my father died, I was about 20 years old. I remember how my friend was there, comforting me, standing alongside me in my grief, listening patiently when I wanted to talk, and just being there like any good friend would.

I’ll never forget during my third year of college when I was struggling with what to do with my life. I had decided to no longer pursue the pharmacy profession. As I was talking with my friend about my future, he suggested that I pray and ask, “God what do you want me to do with the life you’ve given me?”

When I later went to seminary, he supported me. When I got married, he was in my wedding. He has been a constant part of my life.

He’s the kind of person who has always been there for me and has helped me talk through all the major decisions of my life. Though I haven’t always been the best of friends to him, he has always accepted me as I am. Our relationship is open and honest. I trust him with my life. Through his friendship, life, and example, he has always inspired the best in me.

My friend’s name is Jesus! And he wants to be friends with everyone!

You know, friendship is a special thing. Friends are there for each other through thick and thin, always picking up where they left off, and loving unconditionally.

Jesus is all that and more!

The way to know Jesus’ friendship is by prayerfully spending time with him, just talking and listening to him, like you would with any other friend.

Jesus said, “I call you friends” (John 15:15).

And Jesus’ friendship makes all the difference in the world!

The Reverend Dr. Tom Elliott is Senior Pastor of Cannon UMC, Snellville, Georgia.

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

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