HOLIDAY 2025 EDITION Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine
Our Town GWINNETT
Grayson
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Dacula
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Lawrenceville
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Up Close with Run the Reagan, see story on page 5.
Snellville
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Loganville
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Seen in Gwinnett Emil’s Photos of the Month
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On the Cover:
Gwinnett’s Premier Road Race Returns to Snellville in 2026 By Jenna Cooper
The annual Run the Reagan road race is a longstanding tradition for the community in Snellville, and it will return for its 31st year on February 21, 2026. The event features a half-marathon, timed and untimed 10K and 5K races, and a 1K fun-run down Ronald Reagan Parkway, but the impact extends far beyond the finish line. All proceeds (after expenses) from the event sponsorships and participant fees are donated to organizations that give back to the community, averaging around $65,000 in contributions each year. Beneficiaries for 2026 will be the Lilburn Co-op, the Brookwood Schools Foundation, and the South Gwinnett Cluster Foundation. “Run the Reagan is such a great community event. We love to see all the people who come out to spend time with their families, get some exercise, have fun, and give back to Snellville,” said the organization’s president, Kelly McAloon. In the early 1990s, Vietnam War veteran and active community member Parks Mann founded Run the Reagan as a charitable organization, hosting the first race shortly after Ronald Reagan Parkway opened. At the time, proceeds from the event benefited the Gwinnett County Clinic until its closure, and have since been designated each year to other local charities that help the community and support the event through volunteering and promotion. Fueled by Mann’s dedication to serving the
community and his commitment to charitable causes, Run the Reagan has been a successful event every year since its founding, even during the challenging years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020, Run the Reagan received a proclamation from the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners in recognition of its contributions to the community. Now, what started as a small charitable organization has evolved into a premier event in Gwinnett, offering family-friendly entertainment and attracting between 1,500 and 1,800 runners throughout the county and beyond. On race day, attendees can expect inflatables for kids, a live DJ, school bands and cheerleaders, and a variety of vendors providing goods and services. “It’s a great opportunity for businesses to get their name out there as a vendor or give back to the local community by sponsoring the event,” said McAloon. “We are very excited to have Piedmont Eastside returning as a great partner and title sponsor for our 2026 race.” The event offers sponsors of all sizes the opportunity to promote their businesses through meaningful contributions and invites vendors to connect with the community through food, crafts, sports apparel, games, and more. To bring the race to life, however, it’s the combined passion of the volunteers, board members, sponsors, and dedicated leaders that makes it pos-
Holiday Edition 2025 Our Town Gwinnett
sible. The event requires the time and energy of over 200 volunteers, the approval of the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners for the use of the road, as well as the planning and recruitment efforts of Run the Reagan board members. “I’m all in,” said McAloon. “I believe Run the Reagan is such a worthy cause because it benefits so many different people in our community, and as president, I am 200% committed to seeing it continue to grow and thrive as a Snellville tradition.” More information at https://runthereagan.net/
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Our Town Gwinnett/Walton Community & Family Magazine
— An EndResultz Media Company EndResultz.com Our Town Gwinnett is published and direct mailed to select homes in the Gwinnett/Walton area. Opinions expressed by the writers and staff are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Our Town Gwinnett reserves the right to edit and/or reject any editorial or advertising content. Our Town Gwinnett is not responsible for errors in advertising beyond the cost of the space or for the validity of claims made by advertisers. Entire contents copyright 2025 by Our Town Gwinnett. Reproduction in whole or in part is forbidden in any media without written permission from the publisher.
Publisher/Owner Dr. Ryan T. Sauers Ryan@EndResultz.com
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Cover Story Feature Writer Kristen Eleveld
IN THIS ISSUE
Feature Writers Jenna Cooper Victoria R. Crosby Tana Poncsak Traci Sanders
Contributing Writers Jane Bishop Bill Crane Dr. Jenny Reesman Tanisha Turner Pam Walker
5 On the Cover: Gwinnett’s Premier Road Race Returns to Snellville in 2026 7 From the Publisher: Ryan’s Remarks 7 Pet Perch: Protect the Trees and the Pets 9 Learning Lessons: Tips on Raising a Child to Work Well with Others 10 Precious Hands Care: Five Years of Compassion and Commitment 10 One Man’s Opinion: Town of Tucker Becomes a Growing City 12 Stone Mountain Author Brings Elvis Encounters Close to Home 12 What We’re Grateful for This Holiday Season 12 Travel Tales: Eating My Way Through Colombia 13 12 Small Ways That Make the Holidays Feel Like Home in Our Community 13 Small Acts, Big Holiday Joy 14 It’s Never Too Early to Start Thinking About New Year Goals 15 Gwinnett Tech Cybersecurity Students Win National 2025 SkillsUSA Competition 15 Pacing…A Word for Your Day
Seen in Gwinnett — Emil’s Photos of the Month, see page 4
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From the Publisher:
Ryan’s Remarks By Dr. Ryan T. Sauers
@RyanTSauers
@RyanTSauers
As the year winds down and the holiday season fills the air, it’s the perfect time to reflect on what truly matters—the incredible connections we share. The people, businesses, and organizations around us are the heartbeat of this publication, and we are deeply grateful for every reader, partner, and story that makes it all possible. A strong network of relationships is the foundation of everything we do. It’s in the way neighbors come together to support one another, how local leaders and organizations step up to make a difference, and how local businesses contribute to the character and vibrancy of our area. These organizations —big and small—play an essential role in shaping the unique identity of our towns and in supporting the livelihoods of so many. At Our Town Gwinnett, we believe in focusing on the positive. We aim to highlight the good happening around us—the stories of families, businesses, people, and organizations creating connections, solving problems, and inspiring change. We take pride in being a voice for family-friendly, uplifting local news that reflects the heart and soul of Gwinnett and its surrounding areas. This holiday season, we celebrate such stories found almost nowhere else—stories that showcase the beauty of gratitude and the incredible power of people working together. Our Town Gwinnett isn’t just a publication; it’s a celebration of everything that makes our area unique. Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Your support inspires us to keep sharing stories that uplift, connect, and celebrate the vibrant spirit of where we live. As we approach 2026, let’s carry this gratitude forward, building a place where kindness thrives, businesses flourish, and connections deepen. Together, we can continue creating an environment we proudly call home. Thank you for being an integral part of our story. I wish you a blessed holiday season filled with gratitude, warmth, and meaningful moments of connection. And, as always, thank you for continuing with me on the journey of my town, your town, OUR TOWN!
Pet Perch: Protect the Trees and the Pets By Dr. Jenny Reesman, DVM The holiday season is in full swing. We celebrate Christmas in our house, so our tree is up, covered in more ornaments than I can count any more. The nativity scene placed lovingly in our sunroom, the stockings hung by the fireplace, and the wreath on the door. The fence that used to keep our toddlers away from the tree still stands, protecting our fir and the presents beneath it from our household of curious pets. One cat in the tree causing it to crash onto the floor was one time too many for me! I don’t spend much time on social media, but I have seen enough Instagram videos (thank you, teenage daughter!) of the excited pets, often the large happy Golden, small furry feline, or a small dog leaping for the shining prize on the high branch. Yep…down comes the tree. Though entertaining and funny for a lot of viewers, these videos bring back vivid memories of our tree crash. My cat was caught in the branches; the ornaments shattered on the floor. I was lucky the tree and a few ornaments were the only casualty. Then there was the ornament eating Lab that came in just before the holiday one year. Yep, plucked the ornaments off the tree like forbidden fruit and swallowed them whole! An ER visit, endoscopy (luckily!), and thousands of dollars later, he was back to his old self.
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Holiday Edition 2025 Our Town Gwinnett
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Learning Lessons: Tips on Raising a Child to Work Well with Others By Tanisha Turner Cooperation is an essential life skill that allows children to make friends and work successfully with others. The definition of cooperation is simple enough – combining energies to work toward a common goal. But teaching it can be challenging as it requires a combination of character attributes, such as respect, honesty, patience, and thoughtfulness. Every parent wants his or her child to exhibit these skills, but they are tricky lessons to teach since young children are naturally focused on themselves. The good news is that cooperation can be learned over time through purposeful activities and frequent encouragement from parents and caregivers. We know that children primarily learn character through imitation. They listen, observe, and learn cooperation skills by watching their caregivers’ and parents’ words and actions. When your child sees you working happily with others, he will sense the joy you feel and want to experience that joy, too. By practicing cooperative skills in front of your child, you teach behaviors that will ultimately help your child succeed. Here are some ways you can model cooperation: • Listen carefully to others to understand what they are saying. • Share or take turns when more than one person wants the same thing. Start at home with family conversations that allow everyone time to talk. • Compromise when you have a serious conflict. • Do your part of a shared task and do the very best that you can. When you complete your task, ask others how you might help them complete their work. • Show appreciation for what people contribute to a group or team. • Encourage others to do their best. • Include everyone and make everyone feel needed. Help your child recognize that everybody has something valuable to offer in a group. In addition to serving as a role model, it’s essential to teach your child cooperation intentionally. Use the following everyday activities as opportunities to encourage your child to cooperate with family and friends: • When you read a story with your child, point out times when the characters cooperate with each other. Discuss how the characters feel and how much easier it is to accomplish the task when they work together. • Schedule household chores at times when all family members can work together to finish them.
Holiday Edition 2025 Our Town Gwinnett
• Praise your child for her attempts to help, and refrain from redoing the chore when she’s finished. Help her see the fun of working together to accomplish a goal. Talk about how much faster the chores were completed than if mom or dad had to do it alone. Point out how cooperation with chores allows for more time for family fun. • “Catch” your child sharing or helping someone and show your appreciation. Encourage the behavior but refrain from giving material rewards; they are unnecessary. Children should learn the joy of helping others without expecting something in return. By taking advantage of these moments and creating learning opportunities for your child, you will help him understand the importance of cooperation. Working together becomes fun for children as they develop an understanding of the skills and techniques needed to achieve a common goal. Tanisha Turner is the Owner of Primrose School at Sugarloaf Parkway. More information at www.PrimroseSugarloafParkway.com or 770-5130066.
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Precious Hands Care: Five Years of Compassion and Commitment By Victoria R. Crosby In a world where genuine compassion is often hard to find, Precious Hands Care stands as a radiant example of what it means to serve others with heart and purpose. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic by Rolande Lauture, the agency was born from a calling, one centered on compassion, integrity, and respect for every individual in need of care. As it celebrated its fifth anniversary in October 2025, Precious Hands Care continues to touch lives across Georgia with unwavering dedication and love. From the very beginning, Rolande envisioned more than just a home care agency. She sought to create a sanctuary, a place where those who cannot serve themselves are treated with dignity and grace, and where families find peace knowing their loved ones are in skilled, caring hands. Based in Grayson, Georgia, Precious Hands Care now serves clients in more than thirty counties, including Gwinnett, DeKalb, and Walton. The agency’s mission is clear: to provide exceptional, personalized care to individuals of all ages, whether they are medically frail, recovering from surgery, or simply in need of daily support and companionship. A Comprehensive Approach to Care What makes Precious Hands Care unique is its structured, multi-level approach designed to meet clients exactly where they are. The first level features Personal Care Assistants (PCA), state-certified professionals who provide hands-on help with essential daily activities: bathing, hygiene, dressing, and companionship. The second level includes Certified Nursing Assistants (CNA), trained to monitor vitals and support those requiring a higher degree of non-medical attention. The third level of care extends to advanced CAN support, offering post-hospitalization assistance, meal preparation, and errands, bridging the gap between personal and medical care.
One Man’s Opinion: Town of Tucker Becomes a Growing City By Bill Crane Settled back in 1892, Tucker was a prosperous town in east central DeKalb County. Along the main rail line heading east out of Atlanta, it had a Main Street, prominent local businesses in the same family for generations, like Cofer Brothers and Matthews Cafeteria, and its own high school and middle schools named for the town. The Tucker Tigers were a regional high school powerhouse, and without much of a plan, the unincorporated community steadily grew. In Georgia, by the early 2000s, initially due to concerns about the quality of service delivery by several urban metro Atlanta counties, a land rush of sorts began to create new cities to gain more local control over functions like public safety, planning and zoning, parks and recreation, roads, and public works. Sandy Springs, in north Fulton, was first followed by a practical Gold Rush of communities racing through the rigors of campaigns and later referendums to create and charter new municipalities, primarily in Fulton, DeKalb, and Gwinnett counties. Tucker, Georgia, although long considered by many as already a city, began efforts to officially become one in 2013. After more than two years and hundreds of volunteers and civic meetings, Tucker residents voted to incorporate as a new Georgia city by a 74 percent margin. Following some annexations, Tucker’s borders expanded well beyond the unincorporated town to include the
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For those who live independently but desire safety and social connection, companion services bring reassurance through medication reminders, light assistance, and fall prevention. At the highest level, licensed nurses (LPNs and RNs) deliver specialized medical care for clients with complex health needs (pain, Medication management, wound care, Trach Care). More Than Care—A Calling The care process begins with a compassionate phone consultation, followed by an in-person assessment to understand the client’s unique situation. With flexible rates tailored to each family’s budget and a minimum of five hours per service, Precious Hands ensures quality remains accessible and personalized. But the agency’s reach extends beyond home visits. Rolande and her team actively engage the community through free senior activities, wellness events, and social gatherings in assisted living and rehabilitation centers. From bingo with prizes to memory challenges, manicures, and skill-building workshops, these programs help restore a sense of joy and belonging among seniors who might otherwise feel isolated. A Mission Rooted in Hope At the heart of it all lies Precious Hands Care’s mission: We are dedicated to surpassing our clients’ expectations and boosting their hope, self-respect, and self-confidence while providing guaranteed care their way. We achieve this by meticulously assessing their unique needs and then selecting qualified, trustworthy, and compassionate personnel to meet those needs. One recent review read: “I have had Precious Hands for two weeks now with my aunt. I have used other agencies before but nothing comes close to Precious Hands. They are kind, caring and very attentive. I highly recommend this agency for your loved ones.” As Precious Hands Care reached this meaningful milestone, its story serves as a reminder that genuine care begins with empathy and that a single vision, guided by faith and purpose, can change countless lives. More information at www.precioushandscare.com retail and office district around Northlake Mall, east to the affluent subdivision of Smokerise, and DeKalb County’s eastern border with Gwinnett County. There have been more than a dozen of those new cities over approximately the same period, yet their successes vary widely. Tucker stands out. It offers low taxes, only modest increases in millage rates, and higher service levels across the city. YET NONE OF THIS happens by accident. It requires a plan and strong community leaders. Frank Auman, the founding Mayor of Tucker, has spent a decade working with the Tucker City Council, administration, and thousands of Tucker residents in place-making as well as creating a depth of purpose in building out the City of Tucker. A versatile trail system now provides access to new and improved parks. Abandoned or underused parcels and buildings have been redeveloped. A Community Improvement District in the city’s northeast was renamed and revitalized as the Tucker Northlake Community Improvement District. The aging Northlake Mall was transformed into a major back-office employment hub for non-medical staff of Emory Healthcare. New parks dot the landscape on each side of the downtown, and along that railroad spine, and while Tucker Days are still one of the premier community celebrations each year, dozens of more community events mark the calendar year-round. Tucker isn’t a perfect Shangri-La, but citizen satisfaction there appears high—from a neighboring community perspective, it seems that only the newly popular sport of Pickle Ball has the local government in any kind of vexing ongoing “pickle.” Mayor Auman has said, time and again, that he wanted to build a strong foundation for a city where “One can live, work, play and pray for the length and breadth of one’s whole life.” Having known Frank since our college days, I will admit to being a trifle biased, but I have to say that he and his talented team have done precisely that… and then some. Recently, the city celebrated the 10th anniversary of the referendum, which allowed the municipality to charter and form. The Tucker
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Holiday Edition 2025 Our Town Gwinnett
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Stone Mountain Author Brings Elvis Encounters Close to Home
Travel Tales: Eating My Way Through Colombia
By Jenna Cooper
By Pam Walker
Victoria Crosby is an author, poet, mother, radio host, teacher, and — perhaps above all else — an Elvis fan. In her latest book, Close Encounters of the ELVIS Kind, Crosby draws from her own lifelong connection to Elvis Presley to weave together education and narration as fictional characters encounter factual moments from his life. A resident of Stone Mountain, Georgia, since 2021, Crosby was born and raised in England in a household of musicians and began writing poetry as a little girl, inspired by the poems her father often wrote for special occasions. She didn’t catch the wave of Elvis fandom until the 1960s, but soon fell in love with his music and movies. “In many ways,” Crosby said, “Elvis inspired me to come to America.” Enamored with American music, films, and culture, Crosby moved to Long Island, New York, at the age of 19. There she worked as a writer, radio show host, music festival manager, and teacher — roles that all seemed to lead to uncanny Elvis-related encounters of their own. Her inspirational poetry landed her a guest spot on a local radio show, Oasis, which led to her role as a co-host and, ultimately, host. The name of her retired co-host? George Pressley. As the manager of a local outdoor music festival, Crosby tapped into her family’s musical roots, hiring the lineup of musicians that included Elvis tribute bands and even Elvis’ first bass guitarist, Scotty Moore.
Colombia—yes, in South America. Yes, the place where the famed drug lord Pablo Escobar hailed from. Yes, the place where wonderful coffee comes from. I have been there several times, but in my career of adventurous travel, Colombia was a little too “adventurous” for my clients. That is, until recently. There has been an upsurge in tourism to Colombia, with big cruise lines docking along its coast. Now river cruises are plowing Colombia’s famed Magdalena River. More people are losing their fear of being in a drug war and wanting to taste the beauty of this lovely country. Located on the Caribbean coast at the northern tip of South America, Colombia is only a two plus hour flight from Miami. Bogotá, the capital, is a bustling city on the front ranges of the Andres. The coffee region of Armenia and Medellin are a little further south. But on the shores of the warm Caribbean, there is Cartagena, one of my favorite cities in the world. Historic Cartagena de las Indias dates from 1533 when Spanish conquistadors came looking for emeralds and gold. It was also a prime target for pirates for the same reason. In the early 1700s, the Spanish built a fortress to protect the city and its people from the pirates. The fort is still there, as is much of the city’s colonial beauty. Today, the largest cruise ships in the world stop in Cartagena for its history and shopping. The city is also filled with amazing restaurants. Three of the best restaurants in Latin America are located there, as are many Michelinstarred restaurants. The restaurant Celele, which sources all its offerings from local fishermen, artisans, and peasant associations, is now number 6 on the list of Latin America’s Best Restaurants. The recent announcement of Four Seasons Hotels opening a new location there in 2026 is a harbinger of things to come in this great city, as well as for the rest of Colombia. Colombia has long boasted of producing the world’s best coffee. But now local sourcing is coming of age. El Chato in Bogotá is number 3 on the “Best” list. Leo, also in Bogotá, is number 10. There are many more on the list from Medellin to Barranquilla. The food scene in Colombia is really coming of age. But attention, foodies: the easiest access to amazing meals, shopping, and a beautiful history close to US shores is Cartagena, Colombia, “the Gem of the Ocean.” No, not the patriotic song of history, but a true gem of food and culture all inside a historic fort in beautiful and very safe Colombia. Pam Walker is a Virtuoso Travel Advisor. More information at http:// walkeradventuresltd.net
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What We’re Grateful for This Holiday Season By Our Town Gwinnett Staff As the year ends and our community settles into the holiday season, our staff took some time to reflect on what we’re most thankful for. While everyone shared different moments and memories, one common theme kept emerging: we’re grateful for the people who give this area its heart. We’re grateful for educators—from preschool teachers to high school coaches—who pour patience, encouragement, and creativity into young people every single day. They plan lessons long after school hours, celebrate student successes as if they were their own, and help shape the next generation with a steady hand and a generous spirit. We’re thankful for first responders, nurses, and healthcare workers who work nights, weekends, and holidays without complaint. While many of us gather with loved ones, they spend their days ensuring safety, health, and peace for the rest of the community. Their dedication is steadfast. We’re so very thankful for small business owners and local entrepreneurs who keep our towns alive. They open early, stay late, hire local workers, support school fundraisers, and help create the friendly, familiar atmosphere that defines our community. Their presence keeps our economy strong—and our neighborhoods lively. We’re grateful for the volunteers, faith groups, nonprofits, and service organizations that step up where they’re needed most. Whether they’re handing out warm meals, providing support during tough times, tutoring students, or raising awareness for vital causes, their impact reaches far beyond what
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Pet Perch Continued from page 7 As we are near the holidays, I have these conversations with countless clients. Utilizing a play yard gate like we do, attaching the tree to the wall with string and hook, and keeping tinsel off the tree (yep, it’s like kitty candy for some!) can all help keep your pet safe during the holiday. Keeping lit candles out of reach from those curious cats and always under supervision is also important to avoid burnt paws or possibly a flame lit candle falling over. We wish all of you a happy and blessed holiday season, and a safe one for you and your pets! Dr. Jenny Reesman is proud owner of Brookwood Animal Hospital https://www.brookwoodanimal.com/
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12 Small Ways That Make the Holidays Feel Like Home in Our Community
Small Acts, Big Holiday Joy
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
The holidays tend to amplify everything—the lights seem brighter, the music feels warmer, and even the smallest gestures carry more meaning. Throughout our community, it’s often the quiet, humble acts of kindness that define this season more than any decoration or big event ever could. Talk to people around our area, and you’ll hear story after story. There’s the retired couple who bake dozens of cookies and pack small boxes of them for neighbors on their street every December, keeping a tradition alive simply because “it makes people smile.” A group of coworkers who, without fanfare, chipped in to help a colleague facing holiday expenses they couldn’t manage. Or the group of teens who decided their winter break wasn’t just for sleeping in. They spent afternoons volunteering at local nonprofits, loading shelves, sorting toys, and handing out warm meals. A local business owner shared that a customer came in, purchased several gift cards, and quietly asked for them to be given to families who needed some extra help. Another resident mentioned that her neighbor left a small potted plant and a note that said, “Hang in there. You’re doing better than you think.” Not expensive or elaborate, but it meant more than the giver probably realized. That’s the beauty of this time of year: kindness doesn’t have to be big to be meaningful. The holidays bring plenty of hustle—shopping, schedules, school concerts, events, travel, planning. But hidden within these busy days are small chances to brighten someone’s season. A friendly wave in traffic. Returning a stray shopping cart. Holding the door longer than usual. Dropping an extra can or two into a donation bin. Checking on a neighbor who’s been quiet. These gestures often take just seconds, but their impact can last far beyond December. And something remarkable happens when kindness shows up consistently—it spreads. One good deed inspires another. A smile shared between strangers lifts the mood of an entire space. A simple act of generosity sparks a chain reaction. It’s never about the size of the act. It’s about the heart behind it. This season, we encourage you to slow down just enough to notice the good happening all around our towns and neighborhoods. It’s easy to miss when life gets busy. But when you catch it, it reminds you that there is far more kindness in our community than we sometimes realize. And who knows? Noticing it might even inspire you to add your own small act to the mix. Because at the end of the day, the holidays aren’t defined by the biggest tree or the most gifts. They’re shaped by the quiet moments we create for one another. And across our community, those moments are everywhere—you just have to look.
The holidays are filled with big traditions, but much of the magic comes from the small, familiar things that make this season feel like home. In our area, you’ll discover many of these little moments—charming reminders of why this time of year matters so much. Here are twelve of our favorites: 1. The first night you see twinkling lights across our neighborhoods, marking the unofficial start of the season. 2, Peppermint mochas and seasonal treats from local coffee shops that somehow taste a little better when enjoyed close to home. 3. School concerts filled with excited students, proud families, and a few brave kids belting out solos with everything they’ve got. 4. That one cozy sweater you’ve had for years—the one that only comes out in December and instantly makes you feel festive. 5. Candlelight services and community gatherings that bring people of all ages together under one roof. 6. Traffic that gets a little busier, but feels a bit friendlier, too—with drivers letting others merge and waving as they go. 7. The scent of fresh-cut trees, riding home in pickup beds or tied carefully to car roofs. 8. Local restaurants adding holiday specials, giving families an excuse to take a night off from cooking. 9. That neighbor with decorations so over-the-top they could probably be seen from space—and everyone secretly loves it. 10. Receiving a handwritten holiday card, often sprinkled with glitter that somehow stays on your kitchen counter until March. 11. Kids counting down the days, asking, “How many more sleeps?” with pure excitement. 12. Those quiet late-night moments, when the house is still, the lights glow softly, and the warmth of the season settles in. These small joys aren’t flashy or extravagant. But taken together, they create a warm, familiar feeling that makes the holidays feel like home—no matter which part of our community you live in. Enjoy your holiday season, Our Town!
Elvis Encounters Close to Home Continued from page 12 After moving to Georgia, she began using her experience as an educator to help audiences discover — or remember — lesser-known facts about the global superstar, like his role in saving the USS Arizona Memorial, his generous support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, or his honorary citizenship in Budapest, Hungary. Crosby’s natural writing style as a poet usually takes the form of rhyming verse, but this work of prose is her first published departure from that style. “I decided that if I was going to write short stories, I wanted to write about Elvis,” Crosby said. “They say write what you know.” Her book brings together a collection of six fictional short stories, all inspired by real people, places, or events in Elvis’ life. From a story set in Elvis Presley Park in Budapest to an encounter with Elvis’ mother in Tupelo, Mississippi, Crosby hopes that audiences will learn something new and perhaps connect with something that resonates in their own lives. At the end of the book, readers can find a list of resources related to elements of the story or Elvis’ legacy, including websites and phone numbers for St. Jude’s, the Circle G Foundation, the National Domestic Violence Hotline, and more. The book is dedicated to her late friend, Will Hutchins, who appeared in two Elvis movies and whom she bonded with at a radio conference over their mutual admiration for the King. “According to Will,” Crosby said, “after meeting Elvis, life went from black and white to technicolor.” Close Encounters of the ELVIS Kind is available in paperback at Books & Brew in Tucker, Georgia, as well as hardback and e-book through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.
Holiday Edition 2025 Our Town Gwinnett
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
What We’re Grateful for This Holiday Cont’ d from page 12 most people ever see. We’re thankful for families—in all their forms. Parents making memories with children, siblings reconnecting, grandparents sharing stories, and friends who feel like family. The holidays often bring people closer, and throughout our community, you can feel that sense of closeness. And above all, we’re grateful for you—our readers. You welcome this publication into your homes each month. You share your stories, celebrate your milestones, support your neighbors, and remind us why telling local stories matters. The trust and warmth you give us fuel our mission more than you realize. Gratitude doesn’t eliminate life’s challenges, but it sharpens our focus on what’s good. As we reflect on the year, we recognize so much goodness—in the people, places, and shared moments that define this community. As the lights sparkle and gatherings start, we hope you find your own reasons for gratitude. From our team to your family, we wish you a peaceful, joyful, and meaningful holiday season.
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It’s Never Too Early to Start Thinking About New Year Goals By Our Town Gwinnett Staff Every December, right around the time the leftover pecan pie finally disappears from the fridge, a funny thing happens. People start looking ahead. Not in a dramatic “new year, new me” kind of way—just little glances. Quiet checks of the calendar. A mental note about something they meant to start… sometime. And honestly, those small, early nudges matter more than the big January declarations. On a recent Monday afternoon, we asked a few neighbors around town what they’re thinking about—not committing to, not announcing on social media—just thinking about for the new year. “I’m not waiting until January 1,” laughed Maria, a longtime educator we bumped into at the Lilburn Public Library. “If I wait that long, I’m already behind. I’m starting my ‘walk-every-morning’ plan now
while the weather still cooperates.” Over in Snellville, James, who runs a small auto repair shop off Highway 78, said he’s been adjusting his business hours after realizing how much time he was missing with his kids. “Goals don’t have to be complicated,” he told us while closing the shop for the day. “For me, it’s family dinners twice a week. That’s it. Two non-negotiables.” And at a Lawrenceville coffee shop, Chloe, a recent college grad home for the holidays, said she’s hoping to get a better handle on her finances. “I’ve been watching my friends jump into real adult life,” she said. “I realized I should probably know what a budget actually is. So that’s my January mission—figure out where my money is
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Gwinnett Tech Cybersecurity Students Win National 2025 SkillsUSA Competition
Pacing…A Word for Your Day
By Our Town Gwinnett Staff
“Runners, you are 30 seconds from starting!” With these words, my adrenalin accelerated with excitement and anticipation! Lost in visualizing my starting line plan, I was brought back to reality with these additional words: “Due to lightening in the area, the race is suspended for 30 minutes.” Wow! How would this impact my race? Gathered with hundreds of runners in a parking deck, I focused my mindset on my plan. It was important to stay relaxed, enjoy the moment, and view this as part of the adventure. Establishing a specific pace at the beginning that would help me accomplish my goal had not changed; only the timing of the start. Pacing is critical as it sets the stage for the body to be efficient in using the fuel at the rate necessary to reach the goal. Learning to pace myself during a race is one of the most critical skills to learn. Pacing impacts a fine margin between success and failure. Start too fast, fuel burns out before end of race. Start too slow, and your goal may not be achieved. Establishing the pace for me involves: trusting my preparation, being patient, and not allowing myself to compete with other runners and be derailed from my pace. As the year draws to a close, the importance of intentional pacing becomes even more apparent. The final months often bring increased demands—yearend projects at work, holiday gatherings, and personal reflections on goals set earlier in the year. Without mindful pacing, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, rushed, or depleted just as the finish line approaches. Embracing a steady pace allows for sustainable progress, clearer decision-making, and greater enjoyment of moments that matter most. Pacing at year end is about allocating energy and attention where they are most impactful. By resisting the urge to sprint through these final weeks, you’re more likely to finish strong, celebrate achievements, and enter the new year with renewed enthusiasm rather than exhaustion. Three Tips for Practicing Pacing 1. Prioritize and Plan: List your key tasks and commitments, then identify which are most important or time sensitive. Focus your energy on these priorities and defer or delegate less critical items. 2. Build in Rest and Reflection: Schedule short breaks throughout your day and set aside time each week to reflect on your progress. This helps maintain energy levels and provides perspective for any necessary course corrections. 3. Set Realistic Expectations: Be clear about what you can accomplish before year end. Communicate with others about your limits and celebrate small wins along the way to sustain motivation and momentum. By practicing good pacing, you can end the year on a high note and start the new year feeling refreshed and energized. More information at www.janebishoplive.com
Gwinnett Technical College’s cybersecurity students earned national gold medals at the 2025 SkillsUSA Post-Secondary State Leadership and Skills Conference, held from June 23rd to 28th in Atlanta, Georgia. The college’s Cybersecurity program, accredited by both the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), is one of the largest in the state, with over 1,100 students currently enrolled. This year’s competition highlighted the strength of Gwinnett Tech’s hands-on training and academic excellence, as students competed against top talent from across the country in leadership, health occupations, trades, and technology. Two Gwinnett Tech students earned Gold Medals in Cybersecurity at the national level: • Garret Stand, Cybersecurity • Mathias Sosa, Cybersecurity In addition to individual accolades, the Gwinnett Tech SkillsUSA chapter was honored with two prestigious chapter awards: • Level 1 Chapter of Distinction – Chapter of Excellence Program Quality Chapter • Level 2 Chapter of Distinction – GOLD Level-Winning Chapter These awards recognize chapters that demonstrate excellence in developing students’ personal, workplace, and technical skills through high-quality programming and community engagement. Dr. D. Glen Cannon, president of Gwinnett Technical College, praised the students’ achievements: “Our students’ results at this competition continue to prove that their educational foundation is exceptional and that they can apply their learning in real-world situations. The winners at both the national and state competitions confirm our students are also ready to compete in the realworld job market.” He added, “With metro Atlanta emerging as a national hub for cybersecurity innovation, our students are not just winning medals—they’re preparing to lead in one of the fastest-growing sectors in the region.” SkillsUSA’s mission is to empower its members to become world-class workers, leaders, and responsible American citizens. Through its structured programs, SkillsUSA enhances the quality of America’s skilled workforce and helps set industry standards for job training. Gwinnett Tech offers more than 160 degrees, diploma, and certificate options that can be completed in two years or less. More information at www.GwinnettTech.edu.
It’s Never Too Early Start Continued from page 14 going besides iced lattes.” These aren’t resolutions scribbled dramatically in a planner. They’re daily goals—the kind people quietly set as the year winds down and routines slow just enough for reflection. Across our towns—from the moms chatting in line at Publix, to the retirees meeting for breakfast at the Waffle House, to the high school seniors planning their final semester—everyone seems to be doing a little bit of recalibrating. Not huge reinventions. Just tweaks. Adjustments. Gentle course corrections. And maybe that’s the real magic of this season. There’s something about late December that gives people permission to dream without pressure. To plan without perfection. To think about who they want to be next year… while still standing firmly in the life they’re living now. So, if you’ve been feeling that subtle nudge—that “maybe I’ll start soon” thought—see this as your sign that you’re not alone. Everyone around you is probably doing a little early goal setting too, even if they’re not saying so. Start small. Start slow. Start now if you want. Or wait if you need to. There’s no deadline on becoming a better version of yourself. Just a willingness to begin—one step, one plan, one slight shift at a time. And whenever you start, we’ll be cheering you on.
Holiday Edition 2025 Our Town Gwinnett
By Jane Bishop
One Man’s Opinion Continued from page 10 Together celebration in early November was well attended and featured multiple local dignitaries—from the DeKalb County government and School Board to members of the Georgia General Assembly, as well as leaders from neighboring cities. A brief ceremony was followed by a Georgia/Florida game watch party and, still later, by a live concert by artist Michelle Malone, in one of the city’s newer parks. Throughout the day, young children, older couples, singles, and seniors of a wide variety of demographics visited, mixed, and mingled, all celebrating their community. Any other city would be proud to create or celebrate a day like that one. And that First Family of Tucker, the Aumans…must have a City Planner or two in the bloodline. Youngest daughter Grace postponed her wedding plans until after the mayor (her dad) finished his second term in office. She has known her fiancé since childhood, yet these nuptials were not planned until decades later. And this fine young man’s name is—Tucker! You done good, Frank…you done real good. Bill Crane owns the full-service communications firm CSI Crane. More information at www.CSICrane.com
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