Our Town Magazine April 2011 Issue

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town April 2011

Lilburn l Lawrenceville l Snellville l Grayson

Meet the new generation of Family Tradition See cover story on page 5

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Melinda’s Story Please with

Lost

3 0 Pound

join us for this One Night Only My name isCelebration Melinda Franklin. I have been a

Before

Call Today for Your Appointment!

After Please RSVP at 678.990.9400 by 678.990.9400

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over $3,000 in ofGive-aways, chiropractic patient Dr. Gravante’s for several years. Last year in May I went to see my medical doctor for a yearly check-up and was diagnosed with Type II Diabetes and high cholesterol. This was not a huge shock to me as I have a history of diabetes in my family and I was several pounds overweight. They advised me to see a dietitian and start checking my blood sugar twice a day. I was leaving to go on vacation so I immediately implemented some diet changes and started a walking program. When I returned from vacation, I made an appointment with Dr. Gravante to find out more about her Program. She started me with a 28 day cleanse and gave me the proper supplements that I needed to help heal my metabolism.

In one month we were able to see good progress, so I stuck with the program which was very easy. On my follow up visit to the dietitian I had already lost the 20 pounds she wanted me to lose so she didn’t need to see me anymore. On my follow up visit to my medical doctor, my blood sugar was much improved and my cholesterol numbers were totally fine but we decided I needed to start on some medication to help my fasting blood sugar.

Within 6 months I had lost 30 pounds and gained lots of lean muscle which helps me to continue to burn more fat.

Dr. Gravante was there every step of the way encouraging me and monitoring my progress. My blood sugar numbers continue to be much better with my dietary changes. I even did okay over the holidays!

I would encourage everyone with health or weight issues to make an appointment to see Dr. Gravante. She truly desires to help everyone live their life to the fullest!

Are you ready to feel better and get healthy?

Monday, June 15. …. Open Call Dr. Gravante today!

We’re looking forward to meeting you at our Summer Evening House!

Lorraine Gravante, D.C.See our website for a complete listing of workshops.

The Center for Natural Healing and Weight Loss 1790 Presidential Circle, Suite A Snellville, GA 30078 www.drgravante.com

678.990.9400 www.drgravante.com

NUTRITIONAL WORKSHOPS at Dr. Gravante’s office 7:00 PM April 13th & 26th May 11th & 24th Please call to reserve your seat!

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 the human body and not to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or condition. Be advised that any nutritional program recommended byOur Dr. Gravante is not PAGE and biochemical process of For Advertising information Callcure 770.222.2699 • ourtownmagazine@bellsouth.net

Town 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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PAGE Page 3

APRIL 2011 IN THIS ISSUE…

The Gwinnett Area’s Family Lifestyle News Magazine

Our Town

Lilburn

l

Lawenceville

l

Snellville

Publisher/Editor

Counselor’s Corner: Are You Afraid to Be Happy?.................6 Calendar of Events.....................................................................7

Chef Jennifer Hill Booker Cathy Bruce Susan Cadley, LPC Sagdrina Jalal, BS Ed, CPT DeNita McGuinn Shayla Ortiz Dr. Deva Prather Ryan T. Sauers Carol Chandler-Wood

Norma Flores

Cover Photography D. Flores and

Grayson

Contributing Writers:

D. Flores

Graphics

l

About the Cover.........................................................................5

Design

Our Town Jules Williams

Fitness: Detoxification.................................................................8 Finance: Halcyon Times - SOS...................................................9 Education Corner: Repeat First Grade?....................................11 Wellness: Reflexology................................................................12 April Crossword.........................................................................12 Crossword Key...........................................................................14 Relationships: Do Dogs Make Us Healthier?............................16

O ur T own M agazine , I nc .

P.O. Box 644 l Snellville, Georgia 30078 Telephone: 404-824-5396 www.OurTownMag.org For reader comments or questions, please E-mail us at life@ourtownmag.org

Recycling..................................................................................16 Business: Great Leaders.............................................................16 Pet Page: The Flea Issue..............................................................17

Our Town is published and direct mailed monthly to prestigious homes in the Gwinnett Area.

Opinions expressed by the editorial 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.

Recipes......................................................................................18

Entire contents copyright 2011 by Our Town. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without prior written permission from the publisher.

introducing Gentle Chiropractic If you have hesitated visiting a Chiropractor, perhaps you did not know how effective gentle chiropractic can be at treating:

Headaches Neck Pain l Stiffness l Arthritis l Backaches l Hip Pain l l

Arm and Leg Pain Bursitis Painful Joints l Shoulder Pain l Numbness and Tingling l Sports, Auto and Work Related Injuries l l l

SCOTT CHIROPRACTIC NEUROLOGY CENTER 2200 Fountain Drive, Snellville (Next to Kaiser Permanente)

770-972-9160 Appointments are Limited

Page 4

Hi, I’m David Futral, Doctor of Chiropractic at Scott Chiropractic Neurology and Rehab Center. Perhaps gentleness in chiropractic is a new concept to you. It was to me, before I began the eight years of college training necessary for my doctorate degree. But during those years, I learned the precise location where light pressure can bring great relief to chronic and acute pain.

Our office specializes in gentle, but powerful non-force techniques in addition to traditional methods. We also offer physiological therapeutics, exercise rehabilitation, nutrition with healthy weight loss and massage therapy.

In addition to my Doctorate, I am a Board Certified Chiropractic Neurologist, along with Dr. Jane Scott, who has served the community since 1988. We are the only Chiropractic Neurology Group in Gwinnett County and the surrounding area. We use the latest techniques and technologies, attending Chiropractic Neurology Seminars to keep up with the newest research and discoveries to better serve our patients. To experience these gentle but powerful techniques, call for a consult and exam today.

Dr. David Futral

Scott Chiropractic Neurology and Rehab Center

To Introduce You to Our Office Please Accept this Special Offer

COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION & EXAM

Call to Reserve your Appointment Today

Excluding Medicare, Medicaid and Tricare/Champus

www.SnellvilleChiropractor.com

Offer expires 5/31/2011

770-972-9160

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Our Town Magazine

ABOUT THE COVER career in full swing, Dana made time to create her own family. “I have a son named Jared who’s 14, my son Brock who is 11 and my daughter Alexis who is 4.”

When asked if she is a very busy woman, she quickly responds without hesitation, “I am…there is never a dull moment.” When Pete Pike decided to sell Pike Nurseries in 2004, Dana decided to take some time off and dedicate herself to her family. It was during that time that Dana and her husband Jeff realized they were destined to adopt their daughter Alexis and complete their family.

By Shayla Ortiz

S

pring is finally here, we can now breathe a collective sigh of relief that the brutal winter is officially behind us. The blooming trees and sprouting floral buds give homage to the month of April and commence the new season. Now is the time to start sprucing up our gardens and refreshing our curb appeal; Dana owner of The Family Tree Garden Center couldn’t agree more. Dana Pike-Van Vlake a Georgia native is the daughter of Pete Pike founder of Pike nurseries. This remarkable woman has taken the reigns of the family business and has made it blossom once again.

From an early age, Dana recalls gardening always being intertwined with her life. “Growing up in a retail garden center we all had a job to do.

Around ten years old my first job was to pull all the red wagons making sure to clear out the parking lot; my grandmother was also part of the business and I would help her in the green house with the cuttings,” she says with a nostalgic tone. During her high school years in Tucker High Dana would tend to the cash register after school and the weekends. “My father always found a job for us to do,” she says with a chuckle. In 1987 Dana went on to graduate from the University of Georgia with a degree in Marketing and Advertising; without skipping a beat her dedication for the family business once again wooed her back to Pike nurseries. “Gardening is in my blood and I’ve never thought of doing anything else. The older I got the more my appreciation and love for plants grew. I’ve worked in all the different facets of the business, whether it was working the store, handling the marketing or dealing with operations and budgeting; there was a little bit of everything,” she said.

Dana married her husband Jeff shortly after graduating. “We’ve been married for almost 20 years, coming this April,” she says with pride. With her

The enterprising attitude that has characterized Dana is now being conveyed in the realization of her own dream. In 2010, the lack of garden centers in the area ignited Dana’s dormant passion for her own business. “We decided to open The Family Tree Garden Center in Snellville last year because the community really needed it. The company we sold Pike Nurseries to decided to close this store, so there wasn’t a nursery in this area. The people really missed it,” says Dana with a twinge of sadness.

The deserted vacant lot was a blessing in disguise for Dana because the same place that once became the manifestation of her fathers dream and hard work; was soon to become the place where Dana’s vision would come to fruition.

“I love my business,” says Dana with an accomplished smile as she guides me through the garden center. She admits that the business is a family affair. “My husband after working for IBM as an IT for several years, now works with me.” Staying true to form Dana’s children also take part in the business. “My kids help out in the summer time and during spring break. Last year they potted up trees and unloaded trucks; they do whatever needs to be done. It’s good to bring up a family in a family business,” she says assertively. Her devotion is evident as you enter the store; the country home atmosphere envelopes you and the strategic merchandising entice you to stroll through the intricate gift shop.

“We enjoy the plants, we love planting, and we love the public,” she says as she shows me to the garden.“I wanted to share my love for gardening while helping others to beautify their own homes and the community. We want everyone from the novice gardener to the experienced landscaper to find what they need here.” To Dana, gardening is a family event and The Family Tree Garden Center plans to host a number of special activities for all ages. Weekly seminars, kids programs, how-to demonstrations, and special events are all being planned to provide a festive, family-friendly atmosphere.

“With all Dana has accomplished one might ask how Mr. Pike feels about her success.

“My father missed the business and needed something to do because retirement isn’t always a fun thing, so he comes in to work everyday. He still trains me daily and is happy to pass on the legacy,” she says with great passion; a legacy that Dana wants to share with the community. Perhaps Maria Rodale from the Organic Gardening Magazine said it best, “The best plants come with a story.”

Writer, Shayla Ortiz

Our Town Magazine

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Page 5

Total Family Care for Children to Adults • High Blood Pressure • Diabetes • Cholesterol • Osteoporosis • Arthritis • Depression / Anxiety • Preventive Health

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Office Hours: 8:30am - 5pm, Monday through Friday Greater Gwinnett Internal Medicine Associates 1608 Tree Lane, Bldg. C, Snellville, GA 30078

Dr. Larry Kang, MD Diplomate American Board of Family Medicine Accepting New Patients

Most Insurances Accepted Walk-Ins Welcome!

678-344-4472

Counselor’s Corner

Are You Afraid to be Happy?

“Whoever is happy will make others happy too.” ~Mark Twain

Why Advertise in Our Town?

Our Town is the only direct mail community publication that stands out from the rest with beautiful covers of local families in an OVERSIZED format.

Our Town has a long shelf life. With informative articles, calendar of events,

and monthly crosswords, all designed to keep OT in your home and on the coffee table all month long!

Our Town is affordable! Take advantage of our full color, larger ads at

competitive prices. OT also offers reasonably priced, professional ad design!

Our Town is delivered directly to your target audience.

We mail to homeowners and businesses in your own neighborhood. Folks who shop, dine or use your services without having to travel far. and operated. We are small, but wear many hats, and are proud to service our clients personally!

Page 6

W

ebster’s Dictionary defines happy as “well being and contentment”. When is the last time you experienced this feeling and shared it with others? We are all creatures of habit and when someone asks us how we are we may give them a pat answer of fine or head in a diatribe of despairs we are encountering. Stop and think about your happiness quotient and how willing you are to share this feeling with others.

In his book “What Happy People Know”, Dan Baker’s research concluded that happy people keep their expectations attainable and unhappy people set up unreasonable expectations. He also discovered that “happy people are pretty good about appreciating what they have; they don’t spend a lot of time looking at what they don’t have”.

Our Town is locally owned

404-824-5396

By Susan Cadley

l

life@ourtownmag.org

Some reasons people keep their happiness to themselves is they do not want to make someone else that might be having challenges feel uncomfortable or jealous. Or perhaps there is a superstition lurking that “if I acknowledge I am happy,

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something terrible will h a p p e n ” .

Others feel selfish if they share their happiness, again putting others needs before their own.

If any of these descriptions ring true for you, consider becoming more authentic with yourself and others.

When we keep this feeling hidden, we are not sharing all of who we are. Additionally, if we are willing to share our happiness, even in the midst of another persons troubles, we offer hope that happiness is within reach. Happiness comes and goes, just as all emotions do. When the happiness wave come along, ride it and share it with others so they too can know it’s available and will crest for them as well.

Susan Cadley, LPC, CSC, Licensed Professional Counselor & Certified Soul Coach is available for couples/ adult individual counseling, Soul Coaching workshops, and book studies in Suwanee, GA. She may be reached directly and confidentially at 678-296-1278; www.coachingforyoursoul. com.

Our Town Magazine

APRIL Calendar Academy April 01 – 10, 2011 Aurora Theatre 128 Pike Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30045 www.auroratheatre.com/new/ Inspired by Goethe’s Faust, this New York Musical Theatre Festival awardwinning show is a coming of age story about boys learning to become men. A lesson for all ages.

Diary of Anne Frank April 01 – 17, 2011 New London Theatre 2485 East Main Street SW, Snellville, GA 30078 www.newlondontheatre.org/ Stone Mountain Park’s Lasershow Spectacular™ April 2, 2011 Stone Mountain Park Memorial Lawn U.S. Hwy 78 East., Stone Mountain, GA 30087 www.stonemountainpark.com/ The show features 45 minutes of spectacular fireworks, lights and laser effects all choreographed to great music. Relax on the lawn and enjoy an evening out as Stone Mountain is transformed into a natural amphitheater.

67th Annual Easter Sunrise Service April 3, 2011 Stone Mountain Park U.S. Hwy 78 East, Stone Mountain, GA 30087 Stone Mountain Park www.stonemountainpark.com/ Experience serenity and peace as the Stone Mountain Ministerial Association presents two simultaneous, non-denominational Easter service at the top of Stone Mountain and at the base of the mountain on Memorial Lawn.

Stone Mountain Park’s Spring FUN Break April 04 – 09, 2011 Crossroads, 5900 Spout Springs, Flowery Branch, GA 30542 www.stonemountainpark.com/ Say good-bye to winter and a big hello to spring at Stone Mountain Park’s nineday kid’s festival, Spring FUN Break.

Our Town Magazine

Happy Easter!

Tracking History Scavenger Hunt Day Camp April 05 – 07, 2011 Gwinnett Historic Courthouse 185 West Crogan Street, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 www.gwinnettcounty.com Give yourself a break during Spring Break. Our three day camp runs Tuesday thru Thursday. Scavenger Hunt, tours, craft and sack lunch will be provided each day

to job searching. Learn six steps to planning and organizing your search, goal setting, and how to create a personal branding statement.

3rd Annual Ride Benefits The Challenged April 6, 2011 Creative Enterprises 701 Hi Hope Lane, Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.ceisite.com/ Motorcycle poker run!

Gwinnett Senior Golden Games April 13 – May 25, 2011 Rhodes Jordan Park 100 East Crogan St., Lawrenceville, GA 30043 www.gwinnettseniorgoldengames.org/ We provide seniors 50 years of age and older with an opportunity to participate in a variety of sports. Event locations varies throughout all Gwinnett County Parks. Please see website for details.

Gwinnett Braves vs. Durham April 07 – 10, 2011 Coolray Field One Braves Ave., Lawrenceville, GA 30043 gwinnett.braves.milb.com The Atlanta Braves AAA affiliate, the Gwinnett Braves, plays baseball in their 10,000 seat state-of-the-art Coolray Field on Buford Drive in Lawrenceville, less than 5 minutes from I-85 and the Mall of Georgia.

“ABC’s of Planning a Family Reunion” April 8, 2011 Simpsonwood Conference and Retreat Center 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, NW, Norcross, GA 30092 Planning session on ‘how to’ successfully host a reunion in Gwinnett County.

Overview of facilities, reunion vendors, complimentary lunch and more.

Reservations required.

Atlanta SCRABBLE Club April 09 – May 14, 2011 Centerville Community Center 3025 Bethany Church Rd., Snellville, GA 30039 Put your skills to the test and make new friends.

2nd Annual Run for Food 5K April 16, 2011 Southern Gwinnett Cooperative Ministry 1200 Athens Highway (Highway 78), Grayson, GA 30052 www.segwinnettcoop.org/ This is a fun, family event. Prizes will be awarded to the Top Overall Male, Top Overall Female, and Overall Fundraiser.

Charity Knitting April 16, 2011 Centerville Community Center 3025 Bethany Church Rd., Snellville, GA 30039 Clicks and Sticks serves knitters of all experience levels. Fund charity knitting opportunities, educational sessions, and more.

Free Shredding & Electronics Recycling Event April 16, 2011 10am - 2pm Gwinnett Bible Chapel 3729 Five Forks Trickum Rd. Lilburn www.Shred-green.com Free document shredding and electronics event. Donations accepted to benefit FCA Missions. No Tv’s or appliances will be accepted.

32nd Annual Grayson Day Festival\ April 30, 2011 Grayson Park 475 Grayson Pkwy, Grayson, GA 30017 www.cityofgrayson.org/ St. Matthew’s Car Show 2011 May 21, 2011 Vines Botanical Gardens 3500 Oak Grove Rd. Loganville www.stmattscarshow.com See website for registration and details.

Organized Your Job Search April 9, 2011 Centerville Community Center 3025 Bethany Church Rd., Snellville, GA 30039 Be ready to step onto center stage with your next career move. Learn how to take a strategic and organized approach

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Page 7

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Detoxification:

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Ancient Practice

or

Current Cure?

By Sagdrina Jalal

D

etoxification dates back to ancient the ancient Greek and Egyptian practice of body purification. It was seen as a way to promote wellness and create a closer spiritual connection. Today, cleansing is an alternative health practice that raises eyebrows and peaks curiosity.

Cleansing is the process of limiting certain foods and or adding certain nutrients to your diet. Some who cleanse abstain from foods such as processed foods, meat, sugar and caffeine. Others consume detoxifying drinks or take nutritional supplements. There are also plans that incorporate all of these practices. Cleansing is generally done for a set period of time; from a few days to a couple of weeks. It is believed that by doing so it is possible to rid the body of certain toxins and optimize health.

One approach is to target certain organs in the body such as the liver or colon. Others cleanse by concentrating on certain systems of the body such as the digestive or lymphatic systems. There are those who use cleansing to jump start a new eating plan. Those who practice cleansing claim to have more energy, clearer thinking, and even weight loss. Some even report an elimination of symptoms such as headaches, joint pain, and depression.

Critics of detoxifying plans state strong objections.

Scientific studies do not support the benefits reported and many medical experts question if the toxins even exist. It’s also known that the body has its own very sophisticated detoxification system. Disrupting this system by extreme fasting or eliminating nutrients for an extended period can be quite harmful.

The debate about the effects of cleansing continues. Those who feel they have been able to address health concerns by detoxifying stand in firm support of its benefits. Those who question the practice feel equally strong about the potential hazards. The result has become a matter of choice.

For more information about cleansing check out the following websites: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/colon-cleansing/AN00065http://altmedicine.about.com/cs/dietarytherapy/a/DetoxBasics.htmhttp:// www.ehow.com/how-does_4925391_colon-cleansers-work. html

By Sagdrina Jalal, BS Ed, CPT, Fitness Consultant, Inner Strength Fitness, 404-271-0071 www.innerstrength-fitness.com

Page 8

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Our Town Magazine

FINANCE Halcyon Times– Helping you enjoy smooth financial sailing.

By Glenton Ashby

...---...SOS...---...

T

he title above includes the Morse code representation of the international distress signal S-O-S, commonly referred to as “Save Our Souls”.

To avoid financial distress you may find yourself in the situation of having to “Save Or Sink” or “Salvage Our Savings”.

$

Given all the economic turmoil of the last two years, saving must have greater importance for everyone. And saving is different than investing. You cannot invest money you do not have so you have to be saving before you can start investing.

Saving can be viewed as short-term and safe. Investing is long-term and there is some level of risk.

So where you put savings will usually be different from where you put investments.

0

Saving is how you build a cash emergency fund (usually 3 to 6 months of living expenses) and a cash financial cushion. The emergency fund should, of course, be for emergencies. The cushion can serve as a way to meet needs that fall outside your normal monthly expenditures. Saving is also how you set aside money in a safe, low-risk place for near-term goals.

No amount is too small for beginning a program of regular saving. If you doubt it is possible, start with a small amount and prove to yourself it is possible. The objective is not to save a huge amount. And it is not a competition with anyone else. You are responsible for your own financial well-being, so save in the context of your personal situation. Show yourself that you can spend less than you earn.

Spending less than you earn is the key to saving any amount of money and to accumulating wealth in the long term. Determine your emergency fund and cash cushion goals and get started.

To go along with this, I also recommend setting up, or considering, an automatic withdrawal to your savings account(s). That way you don’t have to work as hard to be disciplined in your saving.

$

In addition to regular saving, I highly recommend having a savings account for large non-monthly or irregular expenses such as annual or 6-month insurance bills, annual renewal bills or vacations. Add up all your known non-monthly expenses, divide by 12 and save that amount each month. When the irregular bill comes due money will be available for that payment. This is not a true savings account but rather a holding account, but the principle is the same – you are setting aside money for a near-term need. And if you don’t have to spend all of what you set aside, those funds can become savings.

There are a variety of places to put savings and earn some level of interest while preserving safety and accessibility. These include local bank savings accounts, on-line bank savings accounts and CDs (certificates of deposit). As your savings program establishes itself, you should give consideration to the type of return you can get on your money. Even if an interest rate is low, some return is better than none. The higher an interest rate or return you can find, the better. Once you have attained your emergency fund and cash cushion goals you can begin to work on your investing goals.

A disciplined savings program is step one in protecting yourself against financial distress and part of a firm foundation for your financial house.

Feedback and topic suggestions are welcome – email HalcyonTimes@HalcyonFP. com, or comment at www.HalcyonFP.com/halcyon-times. Tweet @halcyonplanning.

Glenton Ashby is the founder and owner of Halcyon Financial Planning, LLC, a fee-only financial planning and Registered Investment Advisor firm. Visit HalcyonFP.com.

Our Town Magazine

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Page 9

Page 10

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Our Town Magazine

EDUCATION Corner

Repeat First Grade?

?

FIVE FORKS ACADEMY 3079 Five Forks Trickum Road

We are a curriculum based day care environment implementing “Creative Curriculum” in each age group.

Dear Carol, y daughter’s teacher has suggested she repeat 1st grade next school year. Her dad and I have mixed feelings about this. What do you think we should do? Mrs. B

Dear Mrs. B., This is a tough decision and one that requires much thought. There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to have her repeat the 1st grade; her birth date, achievement levels in reading, writing and math, and her emotional resiliency.

If your daughter was born in April or later, she is considered to be a ‘young” 1st grader and could be developmentally immature, even though she is not chronologically young for 1st grade.

Students who are developmentally immature often have difficulty finishing their class work, staying on task, sitting in a desk for lengths of time, and using their fine motor skills, such as writing with a pencil. These areas will naturally improve as she grows older. I would not use developmental immaturity as the only factor for retention. Just like puberty, developmentally maturity occurs when a child’s body clock is ready, and this could happen before 2nd grade begins. However, as a consequence for developmental immaturity, your daughter may have had difficulty learning new information this year, which brings us to another factor to consider.

Lilburn, GA 30047

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Be sure to mention you saw this ad in Our Town Magazine!

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Your daughter’s levels of ability in reading, writing and math are most important to consider when deciding whether to promote her to the 2nd grade. If achievement scores indicate she has below grade level skills, in order to promote her, she MUST improve these skills over the summer and during the next school year as a result of tutorial sessions with either a professional or you. Investing your time and money to enable her to improve in abilities is one of the most important decisions you can make on behalf of her overall well-being. If you allow her to begin 2nd grade with below level abilities, you have not only risked her school success, but also, her confidence and self esteem. I would strongly encourage you to not take this chance because it could take years to undo the damage done academically and emotionally, which leads us to the last factor to consider.

Some children are more emotionally sensitive than others. I have heard many successful adults say, “I was so dumb I failed kindergarten”. It seems that no matter how old they are or successful they have become, they never forget that they repeated a grade. It takes a very resilient person to not be affected by grade retention, so you have to decide if your child will suffer too much emotionally to being retained.

Therefore, I recommend that if your daughter is developmentally immature for her age, behind in achievement abilities, you are not able to improve her skills up to 2nd grade levels or higher prior to the beginning of school, and she is emotionally resilient, I would have her repeat the 1st grade.

Otherwise, I would promote her on to the 2nd grade. Remember, the most important factor in your decision to promote her, is her levels of reading, writing and math abilities. Do know that it is in the early school years that your daughter’s academic foundation is formed and her self esteem developed.

You may e-mail Carol Woods at ccwood@bellsouth.net or visit company’s website, www.totallearningconcepts.com.

Our Town Magazine

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Page 11

Reflexology: Another Wellness Alternative

I

f you’re a regular reader of my column, you know how much I love and use alternative wellness options for health and wellbeing. I’ve written about Yoga, Pilates and one of my favorite treatments – acupuncture – as a means of relieving tension, training the mind to focus, and creating strength and balance in the physical body. This month, I’m sharing my experience with reflexology.

In the 1990s, I’d heard a lot about reflexology as I worked in various wellness centers and Yoga studios. This alternative method for treatment of pain and illness throughout the body focuses on applying pressure to specific points on the feet and hand. According to reflexology theory, the bottoms of the feet and the palms of the hand are like a map of the entire body. Each point corresponds to a gland, organ, nerve or muscle. By applying pressure to these individual points, theoretically, the natural function of these glands and organs will be improved, tense muscles will be relieved, and circulation will improve.

Uh huh. Right. Okay.

Back then, I taught high impact classes, ran daily, lifted weights, and swam hard. I was strong, fit and in pain. My knees hurts, my arches ached and I had knots the size of baby fists between my shoulder blades.

In 2005, I stopped lifting weights and focused on Yoga and Pilates as my strengthtraining regimen – and I felt better. In 2006, I started getting regular massage – and I felt better. In 2008, I stopped running – and I felt better. In 2009, I started monthly acupuncture sessions – and I definitely felt better. So of course, I had to do something new in 2010 to keep moving in the direction of feeling good. Reflexology.

One day after a Yogalates class, the students and I hung around chatting about wellness and treatments we’d tried and liked. Angi Reid, a student in the class, informed us that she was a certified reflexologist and one of her clients was a member of our staff. That night I asked the staff member about her experience with reflexology and she raved for five minutes. I had to try it!

At my first appointment, Angi gently began touching my toes and asked if I had any ailments or pain anywhere. The only one I could think of at the moment was my big toe, which had been numb for three days from wearing super high heels while Salsa dancing (I won’t be doing that again anytime soon). She started kneading the soles of my feet and working methodically along the edges of my toes.

“OUCH!” I yelped, as she pressed into a section of my sole.

“Hmm. Do you have some pain going on in your right shoulder or neck?”

Oh yeah, I’d forgotten to tell her about the kink in my neck from sleeping weird the night before.

“OHHH, that hurts,” I complained as she moved to another section of my foot and, again, I felt discomfort and pain.

“Hmm, is your lower back hurting on the right side?”

Oh yeah, I’d forgotten to mention that I’d pulled a muscle in my lower back getting up too quickly from an odd position.

Long story short, she worked out three of my kinks in that one 40minute session. And the feeling came back in my big toe (you know, the one I injured Salsa dancing in heels). I’m hooked, and Angi is now AYM’s reflexologist!

Althea Lawton-Thompson, Certified Fitness Expert, is the owner of Aerobics, Yoga & More Fitness Studios in Lilburn, GA & the Fitness Coordinator of the Johns Hopkins Youth Obesity Program in Baltimore, MD. See classes & workshops she offers at www.AYMFitness.com.

Page 12

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

WELLNESS

?

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1. Aloof 4. Golden Triangle country 8. Do, for example 12. Chimney channel 13. Arm bone 14. “One of ___” (Willa Cather novel) 15. Music note 16. Government takeover 18. Colleage 20. Provide, as with a quality 21. Absorbed, as a cost 22. “Malcolm X” director 23. Butterfly, e.g.

24. Assignment 26. Highlander 28. Cap 29. Bad lighting?

30. Building additions 31. Amount to make do with 32. Whole bunch 35. Above 38. Crystalline solid 39. Kind of column 43. Bluecoat 44. “O, gie me the ___ that has acres o’ charms”: Burns

45. Ancient meeting places 46. Aftershock 48. Amigo 49. ___ lab 50. Hoisted, nautically 51. Prevents 54. Stopping instrument 56. Fair-sized musical group 57. Dietary, in ads 58. Enormous birds of myth 59. Hawk 60. Donald and Ivana, e.g.

61. Black 62. Costa del ___

?

Down 1. Disease 2. Take into custody 3. Lasting 12 months 4. Ill-gotten gains 5. Healing plant 6. ___ probandi 7. Chucklehead 8. Extremely 9. make obsolete 10. Serious injury 11. Holds high 12. Soccer

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40

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Across

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11

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9

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35

5

15. La ___ 17. “Agreed!”

19. Dusk, to Donne 23. ___ Verde National Park 25. “General Hospital,” e.g.

26. Old songs 27. Aquatic plant 30. Blows it 31. ___-mutton 33. Bean 34. Slogans 35. Suitable for the stage 36. Moth 37. Run 40. Fifth, e.g.

41. 1598 edict city 42. Bakery supply 44. Bound 45. “I see!”

47. Lemonade brand 48. Poem 51. Unit of noise 52. Music style 53. Irish lad 55. Mr., abroad

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RELATIONSHIPS

Do Dogs Make Us Healthier?

(copyright 2009 Cathy Bruce)

A

fter a terrible and restless night of trying to sleep and my analyzing thoughts about a work situation keeping me awake, I rolled over in bed to stroke my two senior dogs lying curled up beside me. Part of what had kept me awake was my blood pressure was up and I realized as I stroked my resting dogs that it had a significant calming effect on me. One of my dogs has been with us for 12 years and remained quietly resting as I stroked her side and the other dog is 10 years old. As I stroked my 10 year old dog she immediately rolled over for the obligatory belly rub…. her absolute most favorite thing in the whole world. I had to smile.

I started thinking about that tactile behavior we humans do in stroking our dogs. I think for the most part we do it because it makes us feel good. I know in that moment I started to feel better and it felt like my blood pressure started to go down. There are some really neat research studies being done these days about the effects of the human and animal bond. I had the pleasure of meeting and speaking with Dr. Rebecca Johnson from the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction (ReCHAI) in Columbia, MO last month (http://rechai.missouri.edu/). They are currently working on some very exciting research studies that analyze the positive effects that animals have on a human’s health. Those effects are even wider reaching than just

Our Town Magazine

making us feel good. The actual measurable health effects and benefits are amazing. Among some of the many positive health benefits of owning a dog are lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, lower stress and lower depression. For me, this makes me appreciate the animals that I have even more.

So back to the stroking behavior….while it is wonderfully beneficial for us humans, we do need to realize that our tactile behavior towards our pets should be monitored. Not all dogs “enjoy” being petted and I know with certainty that had I chosen in that moment in the early hours of the morning to stroke my youngest senior dog, 8 years of age, he would have moved to go over to the other side of the bed! Is this because he doesn’t like me? No! He does like me….especially when I have dry

roasted chicken for him! The point is that he likes his space and as a puppy he was a show dog and was touched ALL the time, so though he is used to being petted and is able to tolerate it from pretty much any person, he does not necessarily “enjoy” it. If I did not understand where he is coming from then I might take it personally. I have plenty of dog training clients who rescued dogs from situations where the dogs were conditioned not to enjoy the benefits of a relationship with a human. They were either abused by humans or had a traumatic situation early on in life. Those dogs may never fully enjoy being touched by a human but with patience and love they may come to tolerate it.

Bottom line, our animals make us feel good and that is a wonderful thing.

We also need to respect who they are and how they feel. It must be a two way street. So stroke your dog today, if he/she is okay with it, enjoy the positive feelings that come from that experience and thank your dog for having a great impact on your health.

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Page 15

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BUSINESS Great Leaders Share Common Characteristics

By Ryan T. Sauers

What Happens To Paper You Recycle?

By Kathy Perkins

H new.

ave you ever wondered what happens to the paper you recycle? Dropping it off in the recycling bin is just the first step in a multi-stage process that could ultimately lead the paper back into your home in the form of something

Step 1 Before the paper can be recycled, it must be gathered together. Individuals may leave their paper for their curbside pickup program, or they may take everything to a public drop-off location or recycling center.

Step 2 After the paper has been gathered together, it must be sorted by type. For example, magazine paper and cardstock have different properties than regular office paper, and therefore must be processed separately.

Step 3 Once the paper has been separated into categories, the actual recycling process can begin. First, the paper is chopped into small pieces and blended with water.

This process, which is called pulping, turns the paper into a shapeless mush which can then be reformed into something new. During this stage, bleach or dye may be added to change the color of the paper.

Step 4 Next, the pulp must be screened and drained. The pulp is poured onto a flat screen to set its shape and allow the excess water to drain. Once the paper is dry, it is ready to be made into a new product, such as office paper, greeting cards, or paper towels.

Finally, the paper that you dropped off in the recycling bin ends up back on store shelves as something new. By purchasing products made from recycled content, you can support the recycling process from beginning to end. It’s estimated that about half of the paper Americans purchase is later recovered for recycling.

Kathy Perkins is a co-owner of Shred-Green an Atlanta shredding company offering secure document destruction and storage. Shred-Green is committed to environmental responsibility, recycling all shreds and using state-of-the art, energy-efficient shredding equipment. For more information, visit www.shred-green.com

Page 16

The word leadership is thrown around today in every aspect of life. There are so many definitions of leadership that it gets confusing. So, the first thing to remember when discussing leadership is that any person that has “good intentions” to do things but exhibits “no actions” in doing them – is not a leader. It is as simple as that. Leadership requires action. Here is an example: Jack Smith (the parent of little Johnny Smith on the youth baseball team) constantly complains about the job “Coach Bob” is doing. Jack Smith tells everyone – what Coach Bob should be doing, what he should change, what is wrong with the team etc. One day, after hearing enough talk, Coach Bob walks up to Jack and says, “Jack, I hear you have a lot of great ideas – why don’t you join me as a coach to help us improve? Jack quickly replied, “Oh, no – Coach Bob – you do not understand.

I am not a coach. You are the coach. You see, I don’t like to make the “tough calls” but am quite comfortable sitting over here and telling everyone what is wrong.”

With that in mind lets focus on five common characteristics of great leaders…

Great leaders are authentic. You know who they are and what they stand for. They are consistent and transparent. Simply stated, they are not “wishy-washy” nor do they talk out of “both sides of their mouth.” They are true to both themselves and others and what you see is what you get.

Great leaders are patient. Patience is a virtue and a seemingly lost art in today’s busy world. The best leaders exhibit a degree of patience that is not often seen in today’s world. The by-product of such patience is incredible – as such leaders tend to get the very best efforts from others.

Great leaders are dedicated. You see in life there are four basic groups of people. The first group is not committed to much of anything. The second group is somewhat committed to things. The third group is mostly committed to things. And, the final group is the one, consisting of leaders, who are completely committed to things. You can always count on them to get the job done. They never give up and always stay the course.

Great leaders are appreciative. Leaders encourage others to accomplish things because they “want to” not because they “have to” and show genuine appreciation for others. They are empathetic to other people’s issues in life. In addition, they are quick to thank and acknowledge others for their good work.

Great leaders are honest. They do what is right. Period. They operate with the utmost degree of honesty and ethics in how they live their lives each and every day. These are the people you can count on to tell you the truth and not simply what you “want to hear.”

There are other common characteristics of great leaders that I will cover in future columns. But for now, remember this. Anyone can stand on the “sidelines of life” and complain. Anyone can cut corners and tell “half-truths.” Anyone can be “somewhat committed” to a project. Anyone can “fly off the handle” and/or berate someone else. And, yes, even great leaders do these things sometimes. The difference is that top leaders don’t do them as often – and when they do – they quickly learn from their mistakes.

Have you spent time thinking about the type of leader you are? Would you like to improve? Have you spent time thinking about the kinds of people you surround yourself with? If not, there is no better time than now to take a look at the subject of leadership. We are here to help, if you need us individually or organizationally.

Also, to learn more about our proprietary L3 program, as it relates to Leadership, please visit our website.

Ryan T. Sauers is President/CMO of Sauers Consulting Strategies. He has a Masters degree in Organizational Leadership; is a Certified Meyers Briggs Practitioner and is a Certified Marketing Executive. His company is in the business of growing small business. It consults in the areas of sales performance, marketing strategies, and leadership development. For more info on how we can be of service please visit www.ryansauersblog.com or www.sauersconsulting.com

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PET PAGE

PETS OF THE MONTH

“The Flea Issue”

W

hen I moved to Georgia from Massachusetts about seven years ago, one of the first differences I encountered in veterinary practice was the amount of discussion centered on fleas and flea prevention. Unlike the Northeast where fleas are a seasonal problem, Georgia pet owners deal with this problem year round. The South is a paradise for fleas as it rarely gets cold long enough to stop their life cycle. Clients are often amazed that I can find fleas on their pets in December, January and February and I am equally amazed when they call me about a severe infestation during the winter months.

Most clients will have used a flea product on their pet but cannot understand why they still have such a problem. The main reason is because most of the products purchased only target one portion of the flea life cycle, the adult. Effective adult killing products, or adulticides, kill fleas before they can reproduce. The problem lies in the fact that some adulticides are only effective for a few days while others are partially effective up to four weeks. Adulticides that are labeled for monthly protection are usually less effective by the third week due to bathing, not being applied correctly or genetic susceptibility of the flea. Those fleas not killed off by the adulticide continue to reproduce and the eggs, larvae and pupae remain in the hardwoods, carpets and rugs. Imagine a flea lays 50 eggs a day, or about 1500 eggs a month. It takes 3-8 weeks for those eggs to be converted into adult fleas.

Bella is a 4-year-old Golden Retriever, but she rarely retrieves, so we just call her the “golden dog.” Bella has turned into a foodie and loves to run, swim, hike, go on road trips, and get pampered - just like her mama!

Duke is my mom’s 4-year-old German Shepard and is a complete mama’s boy!

He’s a perfect combination of loyal and goofy, will play fetch all day if you let him, and absolutely loves the snow. We rescued Duke when he was 6 months old, and he has been a loyal companion ever since.

Insect Growth Regulators, like lufeneron, methoprene and pyriproxifen, are a group of drugs that target this portion of the life cycle and prevent eggs and larvae from becoming adult fleas. Lufeneron, in particular, is ideal because it is not susceptible to wearing off the pet or to problems with application as it is ingested monthly. This product can be given alone to both dogs and cats for superior flea protection or in combination with an adulticide in cases of severe infestation. In dogs, lufeneron is combined with milbemycin (Sentinel ®) and given monthly for excellent prevention of fleas, heartworm disease and intestinal parasites.

While your average flea outbreak can be controlled by treating only your pets, you may need to employ other tactics to resolve a severe flea infestation. Remember, if you only treat your pets they are effectively the “exterminator” for your house, as only the fleas that bite your pet will be affected.

That is why it is important to also treat your environment including spraying the yard and vacuuming/washing all pet bedding. Also, remember to treat every pet in the household including all outdoor cats every month all year long.These simple measures will lead to flea free environment and pet.

Article by: Dr Deva Prather Of Village Vets

SEND IN YOUR PET FOR OUR “PET OF THE MONTH!” Send to: PO BOX 644 Snellville, GA 30078 or life@ourtownmag.org

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Page 17

RecipeS Whole Wheat ‘Sugar and Spice’ Waffles Makes: 4 10-inch waffles Prep Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

3cups whole wheat flour 1 tablespoon baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon ginger ¼ teaspoon nutmeg

¼ teaspoon ground cloves ¼ teaspoon ground allspice 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar 1 egg + 2 egg whites, well beaten 1½ cups low fat milk 1½ cups water ¼ cup, melted butter Pan spray

In a large bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and ground cloves. Stir in the brown sugar and set the bowl of dry ingredients aside. Mix the beaten eggs, milk, water and melted butter together and add by thirds to the flour mixture. Beat the combined ingredients until you have a smooth batter. Pour onto hot waffle iron and cook until Sugar and Spice Waffles are golden ground and tender. Serve with Warm Berry Compote.

Recipe provided by: Chef Jennifer Hill Booker Please free to contact Chef Jennifer at: www.yourResidentgourmet.com www.ChefJenniferBooker@gmail.com

Page 18

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