CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING Real WOMEN

Proverbs 31 Woman
Meet Anita Parks Higgins

OURcard Members
Save more with OURcard

Let it be “Your Style of Success”

Ladies of State Farm Agency

What is Surviving?
Meet Donna Whitten
Historic Past Exciting Future

www.visitbuford.com
Live • Work • Play
Shopping • Dining • Entertainment
Home of the Award Winning Buford City Schools
and Buford Wolves
 In this Issue

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING Real WOMEN 6 22 38

From the Editor 2

Things We Love 3
Proverbs 31 Woman
Anita Parks Higgins

OURcard Members
Let’s Talk
4 Future woman to look for!
Save more with OURcard

What is Surviving?
Donna Whitten

5 Count your many blessings

Volume II
6 Proverbs 31 woman – Anita Parks Higgins
7 Thanks to our cover models!
Editor-In-Chief:
Lori Samples Duncan 8 Makeover at Studio 93
(ld@woman2woman.sc) 9 How do I get that “just left the salon look” at home?
10 Gwinnett Woman loves Gwinnett men! Meet Coach
Project Coordinator: Dexter Wood
Beth Green
Health & Wellness
Contributing Writers: 13 Balancing the body through science and nature
Pastor Mark Crumpton
Lori Samples Duncan 15 Georgia among worst for childhood obesity
Marcia Dykes 18 Mobility makeover
Charles Gettig
Beth Green Family Stuff
Melodee Hicks
Toni Kelly 20 Self-defense or self preservation?
Julie Manley
Melissa A. Probst Professional
Wendy Rouleau
Tyler Ryan 22 OURcard members
24 Let it be “your style of success”
Publication Layout 26 Sex-trafficking fight goes beyond street
and Ad Design: 29 Up the stairs...a portrait of Wendy Rouleau
Melissa Wates 30 Simply Amazing

Photography: Services
Portraits by Wendy
Clark Berry Photography
32 Making the most of a maid service
34 Taxes: Are you proactive?
36 The American dream. Take two.
Woman 2 Woman Enterprises
PO Box 85282
Lexington, SC 29073
Celebrating the Survivor in you!
(803) 808.0866 38 What is surviving?
www.woman2woman.sc 39 Sugar Cookie Dolls & Jewels
Look us up on Facebook! 40 Celebrating...Life
Every effort has been made to ensure
the accuracy of this publication. How- Business & Web Directory 42
ever, the publisher cannot assume re-
sponsibility for errors or omissions. No
part of this book may be reproduced in A Personal Note 43
any manner whatsoever without written
permission. © 2010

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 
From the Editor

T hank you for choosing to take the time to read this edition of Gwinnett Woman. I am con-
tinually amazed at how blessed I am to share my thoughts and referrals to the women of
Gwinnett. We believe the businesses in these pages are the best of the best. Each business you will
see featured has made a personal commitment to you, the Gwinnett Woman, to provide you with
quality products and services, and I invite you to call them or go in and give them your business.
Without their support, Gwinnett Woman could not continue to share such valuable information
with you.

I would love to see you at the Fashion Show this year where proceeds will benefit Street Grace. Keep
a close eye on our website for more details.

It’s a new year, and love is in the air. My very own valentine just so happened to be born on Febru-
ary 14, so I am doubly blessed to share that day with him. I hope you find yours filled with love and
laughter. Schedule a portrait sitting with Wendy Rouleau at Portraits By Wendy to capture the love
in your family and home, or a special session of just you. Dress up and give the pictures as a gift to
your valentine.

Gwinnett Woman has joined OURcard and would like to encourage you to read about them in this
edition on page 22 to see if this is a service you personally or your business could benefit from.
In times of economic hardship, it is always nice to get a little extra something back or give a little
something extra back.

We are bringing you for the first time ever the “Future women to look
for!” segment. This is about a young woman who is very talented and
extremely important to me. I would like to hear from our readers about a
woman on the rise in your own life or neighborhood. Email us and we may
feature her in the next edition.

It has been my privilege to work in Gwinnett as al-

ways. I want to challenge each of you to do something
kind for someone today, and everyday. I wonder what
would happen if we all decided to perform just one
Happy Spring!
random act of kindness a day.

May God bless and keep you,

Lori Samples Duncan
ld@woman2woman.sc (Look us up on Facebook!)

Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that
acknowledge his name.
—Hebrews 13:15

 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

 Things We Love about Gwinnett
Things we love!
by Lori Samples Duncan

H ere are some of the things we love:

We love Sugar Cookie Dolls &

in the best salad ever (with honey mustard, of
course). See Tanner’s article and ad on page 36.

Jewels! Call or visit www.sugar- We found 5 more gator

cookiedolls.com to order your
very own Georgia Bulldog doll
or Georgia Tech doll–great gifts
and great keepsakes! See their
article on page 39.
The Prison Bird, a children’s book by Lynn Floyd
Wright – find it online at www.amazon.com or
at a bookstore near you!
OURcard – local savings for local residents!
Read the article on page 22 to learn more about
OURcard and how you can become a member
and start saving today!
We love Done Rite Lawns for all of our lawn
care needs. See their ad on page 33 to contact
them about getting your lawn done right!
Furniture truly fit for a queen! This set is by
AICO Designer series Villa Valencia with mar-
ble bed posts and ac-
cents. Call “The Amaz-
ing Furniture Guy” at
(678) 656-2262 to get
yours! Read more on
page 30.
We love Tanner’s Grille and Bar, especially the
chicken fingers–biggest and best in the world!!!
They’re fresh, crispy, available in regular or Buf-
falo style, and served on a platter with fries or
haters! Imagine that
in Bulldog and Yellow
Jacket country! Meet
Shane and Sherry Cof-
fey pictured with Shawn
and Jessica Johnson. The photo was taken last
September, and their guide was Anthony.
We love cute babies! Meet Elizabeth McCall
Green pictured at 6 months old at her home in
Atlanta, Georgia. Her parents
are Laura and Philip Green.
She was born on July 14, 2009
at Piedmont Hospital in At-
lanta. Beth Green is her very
proud Mimi!
We love college signing day! Congratulations to
the following Buford students:
Football: Jessel Curry – Auburn; Kolton Hous-
ton – Georgia; Du’Von Millsap – South Caroli-
na; Shaun Artz – South Alabama; Jerome Davis
– Kent State; Mitchell DeWalt – North Green-
ville; Tyshawn Holley – Albany State; A.J. Cun-
ningham – Albany State; and Andrew Swope
– Hutchinson.
Baseball: Eric Eck – Wofford; Jeb Dills – Gordon
College; and Cameron Crawford – N. Georgia.
Softball: Alysha Rudnik – Ga. Tech.
Tennis: Audrey Marlette – North Georgia
Soccer: Jacey Chandler – South Alabama.
Cross Country: Matt Johnson – Augusta State

Quick tips to get your home ready for Spring!

• Change out your curtains for lighter ones to let the sun shine in.
• Does your living room need a quick, cheap makeover? Rearrange your furniture!
• Declutter and organize your home by using bins and baskets.
• Sweep your porch or deck and get rid of any dead potted plants.

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 
Let’s Talk
Future woman to look for!
by Lori Samples Duncan
I would like to introduce you to our first ever
Gwinnett featured “Future woman to look
for” — Brianna Leigh Samples. Brianna is a fif-
teen year old student at Mill Creek High School,
where she sings in the chorus. Miss Samples is
also a member of the Flowery Branch Church
of God, where she is an active member of the
youth group. With a sweet voice like an angel,
Bri sings in the church choir, at senior assisted
living homes, and “on demand” for friends and
family.
A shining young lady on the outside, she also
radiates from within. Brianna is a very skilled
and talented artist, who enjoys challenging her-
self with different shapes and forms. When a
few of her friends and families were asked for
a word or phrase to describe her, they said the
following: “Easy to talk to and caring,” “good
at motivating me and others,” “sweet spirited,
genuinely kind,” “funny, honest, thoughtful and
loving.” Not bad for a fifteen year old!
Being a teenager in today’s world can be chal-
lenging, at best. Brianna is principled and true
to her belief in her heavenly father. A brief look
at her Facebook page is representative of her
faith, as it is peppered with motivational lyrics
 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
Being a teenager in today’s
world can be challenging, at
best. Brianna is principled and
true to her belief in her
heavenly father.
and quotes that attest to her belief in the anchor
that holds. Perhaps most telling into her per-
sonality is the way she answered the following
photos by Portraits by Wendy
question, “Who inspires you most?” Brianna
replied, “My Nana because she makes selfless
sacrifices for the people she loves, and no mat-
ter what happens, she always knows what to do.
She never loses her faith in God, and she helps
me to remember to always believe in Him. She
is just a good person.”
I have had the honor of watching Brianna grow
from a feisty little girl into a beautiful young
woman and I know that the future holds amaz-
ing things for her. We can’t wait to see what new
things you conquer in the future!

Count your many blessings
by Pastor Mark Crumpton
D o you remember this song, “Count Your
Blessings”?
“Count your blessings, name them one-by-one,
count your many blessings; see what God has
done”
It would do us a wonderful service if we would
remember it more often and there are many
people who desperately need to remember it
right now.
‘Stop looking at what you
don’t have and start looking
at what you do have...’
I know right now many people and many fami-
lies are feeling the stress, pains, and hurt of a
very tough economy; but look around you, you
ARE blessed. I know that I can’t see in your
home and life right now. As you read this, you
may think to yourself, “If he only knew what we
were going through.” Well I may not know what
you are going through, but I do know that you
ARE blessed! When you woke up this morning,
and realized that you were alive and breathing,
you should have realized that you have been
blessed with a new day. What will you do with
this new day? How will you spend it? Will you
waste it looking back at yesterday and fail to see
the beauty of today? Will you squander it wor-
rying about tomorrow, which may never come,
and fail to enjoy today?
Phil 4:4 & 4:6
4
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Re-
joice. KJV
6
Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about
everything. Tell God what you need, and thank
him for all he has done. NLT
Let’s Talk
I heard a story a while back that really made
me stop and think. It was about a man who
had tragically lost his leg in an accident, and
as you can imagine he was very distraught and
depressed over his loss. Until, someone said
to him “Stop looking at what you don’t have,
and start looking at what you do have” as they
pointed out just how much he still had. He still
had his life, his family, and his other leg. At that
Pastor Mark Crumpton pictured with his wife,
Natalie, and daughters Meghan and Emmaly
moment his whole attitude changed and for him
a new day had begun.
Look around you at what you DO have and stop
focusing on what you don’t have or what you
have lost. Look at your children, your grand-
children, your spouse, you family, your friends,
your life and the blessing of this day. I challenge
you to stop what you are doing right now and
literally “Count Your Blessings, Name Them (ie:
Natalie, Emmaly, Meghan) One-by-One, Count
YOUR MANY Blessings, See What God Has
Done!”
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten
Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish,
but have everlasting life. (KJV)
Pastor Mark Crumpton, Lexington Church of God
1228 S. Lake Drive, Lexington, SC, www.LexCOG.com
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 
Let’s Talk

Proverbs 31 woman – Anita

Parks Higgins
by Lori Samples Duncan

“S ome people come into our lives and quick-

ly go.
Some people move our souls to dance.
child of God has governed her life, and even if
one was not aware of her faith, it is evident that
she is a daughter of the Most High. She has her
They awaken us to new understanding with the father’s eyes. Anita is a mother, grandmother,
passing whisper of their wisdom. wife, sister, auntie, friend, and a professional.
Some people make the sky more beautiful to gaze She has made her career with The People’s Bank
upon. in Buford, Georgia.
They stay in our lives for awhile, leave footprints
in our hearts, and I chose Anita for our “Proverbs 31 woman” be-
We are never, ever the same.” cause I believe she exemplifies each of the char-
— Anonymous acteristics of that woman—a wife of character,
a devoted homemaker, a generous neighbor,
We meet some people and we are touched an influential teacher, an effective mother, and
by them. We meet other people and we are an excellent person. Is she perfect? I dare say
changed by them, so that our lives are never the none of us are. We are flawed by the very fact
same. I don’t remember the precise moment I that we are human. But, Anita is pretty close.
met Anita Parks Higgins, as it rather feels that She’s been a mentor for many young girls in our
I have simply al- home church throughout the years, as well as
ways known her. I her own daughters and family members. She
have fond memo- taught Sunday School, and she loved the kids
ries of beautiful like they were her own. I remember as a little
harmonies created girl sitting in her class and being awestruck by
by her, her sweet her beauty (true story), and as an adult, I now
sister, Myra, and a know that her radiance was a God thing. While
friend singing in she is a striking woman, it was the godliness in
church with voices her that made her so beautiful to me.
that could surely
rival angelic choirs. Even though my time with her is limited as the
A lovely woman on years have passed and I had a family of my own,
the outside accred- I still admire her greatly. I can only hope to one
Anita Parks Higgins ited to good genes day reflect upon my life and be regarded by
and a keen fashion young women the way so many think of Anita.
sense, Anita’s real beauty lies within. Her sweet So, Anita, “thank you for giving to the Lord, I
smile is endearing and holds untold powers of am a life that was changed…thank you for giv-
mending broken hearts and lightening the load ing to the Lord, I am so glad you gave.”
of others.

As a talented artist, Anita has made walls come
alive and brought smiles to hundreds upon hun-
dreds of children with patient hands that used
the canvas of a church room or hallway to paint
a picture of God’s creation. Loving kindness
permeated every deed I have experienced with
Anita. Her long ago decision to be a committed
Do you know a Proverbs 31 woman?
If you know a Proverbs 31 woman and would like
to share her with our readers, please submit your
entry to ld@woman2woman.sc for consideration in
our next issue.

 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

 Let’s Talk

Thanks to our cover models!

by Lori Samples Duncan

A special thanks to Wendy Rouleau for our

cover photo shoot. Three very special
women are featured on this edition of Gwinnett
Woman—three generations of women who were
raised in Gwinnett County, and Buford specifi-
cally. Elaine Samples, Patsy Samples and Maggie
Day are the three cover models for this edition.
Gwinnett Woman’s goal is to provide women of
all ages and backgrounds with viable informa-
tion to allow them to make good educated deci-
sions about every need their family may have.

All three of these women are incredibly special to

me because they are family. Maggie is my lovely
little grandmother (center). She has taught me a
lot about being a strong independent woman.
She has raised seven children and worked tire-
lessly to do it. She is an original Steele Mag-
nolia. I know, as do the rest of her family, if we
need her, she is always there and willing to do
anything she can to help each of us.
Patsy Samples is my mother (right). She is also a
strong woman and a role model to her children.
Her faith, her strength of character, her love of
her children and grandchildren are an inspira-
tion to me. She is one of the most compassion-
ate people I have ever had the privilege to know.
When someone needs something, she is first in
line to offer help. She has personally taught me
how to be self sufficient. What a testimony to
a mother. Isn’t that what God gave us children
for? To teach them how to be adults. I love you,
Mama. I hope I make you proud.
Elaine Samples (left) is my baby sister, a lovely
woman who after years in the fast pace legal
side of Real Estate made a career change and
photo by Portraits by Wendy
is now with Habitat for Humanity. I think that
says it all. Elaine is a genuinely caring person.
She has worked with non profits such as Project
Open Hands and Trinity House-Big Bethel and
various other charitable organizations for years.
She is my best friend, and I am her biggest fan.
I am so proud of all she has accomplished, and
her ability to see the beauty in people is amaz-
ing to me.
I wanted to share these three generations of
women with you, because they are so special to
me. They helped shape who I am today. We want
to know about the amazing women in your life.
For a chance to win a makeover and possibly be
on the cover of an edition of Gwinnett Woman,
send us a 300 word or less entry about them to
ld@woman2woman.sc.

Meet one of the few guys on our team – our staff writer!
Tyler Ryan is a freelance writer from Columbia, SC. He writes for several
monthly publications, newspapers, and television. In addition, Tyler is a morn-
ing radio host, television talent, and is the president of The Tyler Ryan Group,
a full service marketing agency. Contact him at tyler@tylerryangroup.com

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 
Let’s Talk

Makeover at Studio 93
by Marcia Dykes

O ur model was Michelle. She has very long,

thick hair. Her natural color was bright-
ened by using a shade of deep, golden sahara.
We used a brilliant copper to brighten her ends.
By leaving out existing
blonde pieces, a natural
highlighted look was
achieved. Six inches was
cut from her length and
long layers were added
all over. More piecey lay-
ers were added to frame
her face which gave her
a softer look.

photos by Portraits by Wendy

We used a brilliant copper to

brighten her ends.
For Michelle’s makeup, we used a line we carry
in the salon called Cara Cosmetics. It was cre-
ated by a makeup artist from Florida.
We used concealer and foundation to cover the
redness in her face to give her a smooth ap-
pearance. We used a blonde eyebrow pencil to
fill in her brows. Because Michelle has hooded
eyes, eye shadow was used to create the appear-
ance of a crease and her upper and lower lash
line were well defined. Black mascara, pinkish
blush, cameo lip liner, and a warm pink lipstick
were used to complete her look.

Featuring Introducing the “New” Bb Thickening Serum!

Now Offering The New Keratin Hair Smoothing
Treatment In Addition To Our Other Hair Services
Located In Historic
Downtown Buford
Visit Our Web Site: ee
t

www.studio93salon.com Ma
in
Str
Hi
ll
Str
ee
t

770.614.9693
ay

93 E. Main Street • Buford

Lee

hw

Ha
Hig
Str

BEST OF GWINNETT
m
ilto
eet

rd

n
fo

Mil
Bu

Hig 985 lR
hwa oa

Tues. & Thurs. 9:30am-8:00pm

y 20 - d

2005, 2006, 2007 & 2008

Buf
ord
Driv
e
Wed. 9:30am-5:00pm • Fri. 9:30am-6:00pm 85

Sat. 8:30am-4:30pm

 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

 Let’s Talk

How do I get that “just left the

salon” look at home?
by Julie Manley

I t all starts with the right products—like a

foundation for a house—you don’t want to
spend all of your time building body into your
hair just to have it all fall in an hour. Everyone’s
hair can benefit from using the right products
for their hair type. You don’t want to use some-
thing too heavy or it will work against you and
weigh your hair down.
What are your favorite products?
That’s hard…Studio 93 exclusively uses Bumble
& Bumble products. We love the results we are
able to achieve layering certain products to-
gether to meet each individual clients needs.
Whether you need volume, body, shine smooth-
ness, humidity protection or curl enhancers,
we can prescribe the perfect combination of
products to meet everyone needs. But to answer
your question…my personal favorite is Bumble
& Bumbles Thickening Spray, a little at the roots
can help you have more volume all day!
Is it necessary to spend a lot of
money purchasing the best hairdryer
and flat iron?
Hairdryers and flat irons are the two main tools
you need to help achieve the look you desire for
everyday hair. You don’t have to spend a lot of
money on your hair dryer. Blow drying takes
practice, but most importantly, you need to con-
trol the direction of the airflow. Keep the nozzle
that came with the dryer—most people throw it
Everyone’s hair can benefit
from using the right products
for their hair type.
away or throw it under their sink—the nozzle
directs airflow down your hair shaft to reduce
frizz and achieve more shine. I do however rec-
ommend investing in a high quality solid ce-
ramic flat iron, or over time, you will damage
your hair.
Once I have the right tools and
products, what’s next?
Ask your stylist how you can adapt his or her
process of styling to your individual time limits
and skill level. For example, your stylist may use
a round brush or curling iron to achieve some
soft body, but it may be easier for you to blow
dry and then use some Velcro rollers. The most
important aspect to achieve the look you want is
though communication with your stylist.

Spring your body into action!

We’ve been hiding under layers all winter, but now that Spring is on its way, here are a few
tips for getting your body ready:
• If your skin is still dry from the winter, try a head-to-toe moisture treatment. It’s time to
get smooth legs for wearing shorts!
• Your feet have been hiding all winter. Go get a pedicure, or give yourself one!
• It’s warmer outside, so take advantage of the weather by walking or running for exercise.
• Take some time to enjoy the sun, but remember to wear sunscreen! Try sunless tanning
products or bronzer to give yourself a sun-kissed glow.

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 
Let’s Talk
Gwinnett Woman
loves Gwinnett
men!
C oach Dexter Wood is the current Ath-
letic Director of Buford City Schools.
We’re pleased to name him one of the first
local ‘good guys’ to be featured in Gwinnett
Woman.
W2W: Coach Wood, we are so excited to
be talking with you about the Buford Foot-
ball Program. It would seem that Buford
folks bleed Green and Gold. Tell us about
your family.
Coach Wood: I have been married to my
wife, Martha, for 33 years. I have two chil-
dren (a son and a daughter) who are both
married, and I have three grandchildren.
W2W: You obviously have been successful.
Tell us how you will continue to build on
your success?
Coach Wood: My philosophy of success
is quite simple: get the right people on the
“bus,” get them in the right “seats,” and then
you can take that “bus” anywhere you want
it to go. So, my main job as athletic direc-
tor is to make sure I have the right kind of
teacher/coaches, and then I help equip and
support them.
W2W: What do you feel are some of the
most outstanding things about the school
and the Buford Athletic Program?
Coach Wood: Probably that as a relatively
small school of 825 students that we offer
so many sports teams for our students. Our
participation rate is also very high, which
means that sports is important to our
school and community and that our sports
teams are the type of programs that kids
want to be a part of. It is also pretty spe-
cial that our football team has won six state
championships in the last ten years, includ-
ing the last three in a row, that our softball
team has won three state championships in
10 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
About Coach Dexter Wood
Personal
• Martha Wood, wife of 33 years
• Ryan and Erin Wood, son and daughter-in-law,
Durham, NC
• Rachel and Jeff Norris, Daughter and son-in-law,
at UGA working for Campus Crusade for Christ
in campus ministry
• Grandchildren: Samuel-7, Ellie Kate-3, Abigail-1
• Hobbies of golf and fishing
• Member of Perimeter Presbyterian Church, Duluth
Education
• University of Alabama, 1973, General Business
• Jacksonville State University, 1982 & 1991,
graduate degrees in Health and Physical Education
Playing Experience
• High School All-American in football and
basketball in Ozark, Alabama
• Football Scholarship to University of Alabama,
1969-1973, playing for the legendary Paul Bear
Bryant
• Three-year letterman as a receiver
• Played in Orange, Cotton, and Bluebonnet bowl
games
Coaching Experience and Honors
• Retired as head football coach in 2005 from
Buford High School. (31 years as a high school
coach, 30 as a head coach)
• 30 year record: 257 wins, 92 losses, 3 ties (16th
in all-time coaching wins in Georgia football
history)
• 5 Consecutive State Championship Game
appearances: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004
• 3 State Championships: 2001, 2002, 2003 at
Buford
• 2 State Runners-Up: 2000, 2004 at Buford
• Set State of Georgia consecutive win streak record
at 47 games in 2004 at Buford
• Alabama Wiregrass Sports Hall of Fame, 1996
• 5 State Coach of the Year Awards
• State of Georgia Athletic Director of the Year, 2005
• GACA Shorty Doyal Award 2004 (statewide
award for coaching leadership)
• 2005 Winning With Character Award (statewide
award for moral character and influence as
a coach)
• Coached All-Americans: Eric Zeier-UGA, Scott
Sisson-Ga. Tech, Tim Wansley-UGA, PK Sam-
New England Patriots, and Darius Walker-
Notre Dame

Coach Wood and his son, Ryan (2000-2003)
2003 State Football Champions
a row, and that our girl’s basketball team is the
defending state champion.
W2W: What values do you try to instill in your
coaches?
Coach Wood: Our sports mission statement
lists four core values: integrity, excellence, team-
work, and leadership. In addition, we desire to
have coaches that possess the 3-C’s: competence,
connection, and character. We aspire to be com-
petent in that we work hard to expertly know
the skills and schemes necessary for excellence
in each sport. But, competence is no good if we
cannot connect with the players.
A quote about coaches that I love
says, “players do not care about
how much I know until they know
how much I care.” Finally, we as-
pire that all our coaches have the
kind of character that is not only a
role model to the players, but goes
beyond that in wanting to make a
difference in their lives.
W2W: Tell us what your vision is
for your athletic program this up-
coming year.
Coach Wood: To continue to build
excellence in all our programs.
Let’s Talk
...we aspire that all our
coaches have the kind of
character that is not only a
role model to the players
but goes beyond that in
wanting to make a difference
in their lives.
W2W: What accomplishment are you most
proud of as Buford Athletic director?
Coach Wood: Number one, it is in the type of
teacher/coaches I have been able to hire (again,
the 3-C’s). Number two, it is in the number
of sports teams we have added to our athletic
program over the last few years, therefore giv-
ing more opportunities for our students to par-
ticipate. Some of the new sports added are: Boys
and girls soccer, competition cheerleading, girls
golf, volleyball, fast-pitch softball, and swim-
ming. We also have added all these sports at the
middle school level. I am also personally hon-
ored to be inducted into the Georgia Athletic
Directors Association’s Hall of Fame in March.
W2W: What accomplishment are you most
proud of personally?
Coach Wood: Most definitely, my family. A
scripture verse sits prominently in my office
next to pictures of my family that reads, “I have
Coach Wood and his family
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 11
Let’s Talk
no greater joy than this, than to hear of my chil-
dren walking in the truth.” Of course, I am in
the grandchildren stage-of-life, and it is pretty
awesome for my wife and I to be able to enjoy
them so much!
W2W: How can the Buford community help
the athletic program become more successful?
Coach Wood: One of the big issues that we are
facing is the funding of our athletic programs.
The economy has impacted us tremendously.
Attendance at contests is down, fund-raising
monies are down, and corporate sponsorships
have diminished. Our sports boosters club is
A great player is one with
great natural athletic skills
and develops those skills on a
year around basis. I think one
of the things that we do best
at Buford is to help our
players reach their full
athletic potential through
our strenuous strength,
conditioning, and explosive
movement program.
also having a difficult year meeting its budget.
So, the community could really help our athletic
program in a couple of ways: come out and at-
tend our contests which helps us with gate re-
ceipt monies and adds excitement to our games,
and then support our booster club fund-raising
efforts, such as the annual golf tournament on
May 1st, the historic Buford 5K Run on June 5th,
and visiting the concession stands at our athletic
events.
W2W: Any thoughts on what makes a great
team player or great athlete?
Coach Wood: A great player is one with great,
natural athletic skills and develops those skills
on a year around basis. I think one of the things
that we do best at Buford is to help our players
12 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
reach their full athletic potential through our
strenuous strength, conditioning, and explosive
movement program. We offer daily PE classes
in the weight room where we work hard on im-
proving the overall skills of our male and female
athletes.
W2W: What is the best piece of advice you were
ever given?
Coach Wood: It was by my college head foot-
ball coach as I met with him to tell him I was
going into coaching for my career. He told me
to always try and surround myself with people
better than me and to always have a plan for ev-
erything. I used that advice during my 30 years
as a head football coach.
W2W: What female has played a major role in
your success?
Coach Wood: There is no question that my wife,
Martha, has been the key reason for any success
I’ve had as a coach and Athletic Director. She
is a retired educator and coach herself, so she
completely understands kids and competition.
But mostly, she has great insights and common
sense that allowed me to bounce many critical
decisions off of her. Martha is also a great wife
and Mom. I never worried about my family be-
ing loved and cared for.
W2W: How do you feel that the program has
encouraged personal growth in individuals at
the next level beyond sports?
Coach Wood: I feel that the kids who have
played sports here at Buford have learned many
life lessons that have helped them at the next
level. They have learned how to work a process
within a team framework to accomplish high
goals. They have learned how to strain and work
hard at practices. They have learned to under-
stand that every member of a team has an im-
portant role to fulfill in order to achieve goals.
They have learned to respect each other, their
coaches, and opponents. So, its mostly intan-
gibles that they carry with them.
Know a local “good guy” to feature?
Please send us a detailed essay explaining why you
feel your nominee deserves to be featured as our
next “good guy.” Emails can be sent to our editor at
ld@woman2woman.sc for consideration.
 Health & Wellness

Balancing the body through science

and nature
by Tyler Ryan

“B alancing the body through

science and nature.” It’s this
balance that Gayle Mack says holds
the key to the success to the wellness Because everyone’s
center in Buford called Body and
Nature. With a Doctorate in Natu-
balance is a little
ropathic Medicine from Southern different, it all starts
College of Naturopathic Medicine,
a Doctorate in Bio-Energetics from with the Meridian
the Academy of Bio-Energetics, a Assessment...
Board Certification in Korean Hand
Energetics and Laser Therapy, and
armed with computer based assess-
ment systems, Gayle helps find that Gayle Mack
balance for clients. Her training and
experience go well beyond the many letters is a computer based assessment system that is
which follow her name, and her commitment designed to recognize disturbances in the body.
to finding the balance in life for her clients con- From there, Gayle creates a custom assessment
tinue well beyond any framed documentation. of the body’s pathways, called meridians. The
computer assessment, coupled with Gayle’s in-
The individual care that is given at Body and terpretation, will determine what in the client’s
Nature begins with the very first moment you body is out of balance. Once this is determined,
spend at the 4319 South Lee Street location. remedies including nature, science, homeo-
Because everyone’s balance is a little different, it pathic remedies, and nutrition all help regain
all starts with the Meridian Assessment, which the equilibrium in the body.

“Balancing the body through Science and Nature”

• Meridian Assessment
• Lymphatic Drainage
• Cold Laser & High Frequency
• Korean Hand Energetics
• Emotional Balancing
• Homeopathic and Natural Remedies
• FarInfra Red Sauna
• Ionic Foot Soak
• Enzyme Therapy
Gayle Mack NMD, DBE, BCBS
• MetaBalance Systems Weight-Loss

678.482.1878 www.bodyandnatureweb.com
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 10:00am-1:30pm and 3:00pm-6:00pm 4319 South Lee Street, Suite 200
Wednesday: 3:00pm-6:00pm by appointment Buford, GA 30518

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 13
Health & Wellness
You can even finally overcome
the “yo-yo” dieting...
Some of the services that clients
are offered at Body and Nature
include Lymphatic Drainage,
which helps combat cellulite, sagging
skin and GI issues. By cleansing cellular debris,
metabolic waste, viral infections and other im-
purities from tissue, the lymphatic drainage
procedure filter the toxins, leaving skin smooth
and healthy. The anti-aging properties can di-
minish laugh lines, lift and tighten the skin, and
even lift eye lids. You will feel transformed with
this safe, non surgical face lift.
Cold Laser Therapy is also available, which in-
creases cell and tissue repair. Clients of Body
and Nature can reach inner peace and ease
in daily life through the voice assessment and
“You WILL get results − rapidly and noticeably.”
Go From This...
Get Started Now!
3380 Holcomb Bridge Rd • Norcross.GA 30092
www.wickedtraining.com
14 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
emotional CPR found with the Emotional De-
toxification. Gayle’s training and certification
in Korean Hand Energetics has taught her that
every part of the body can be treated through
the hand. Using this non-needle acupuncture
treatment, she can resolve blocked energy that
relates to pain in the body.
You can even finally overcome the “yo-yo” diet-
ing that plagues millions with the MetaBalance
System of weight loss. The program hinges on
you learning about your own body, and under-
standing the impact of specific eating habits.
Through this understanding, you can achieve
long term weight stability.
There are many other services that clients can
enjoy while visiting Body and Nature, including
the farinfra red sauna, enzyme therapy, and the
very relaxing ionic foot soak.
You can learn more about Gayle Mack, and the services
offered at Body and Nature, but logging onto www.
bodyandnatureweb.com or their location, at 4319 South
Lee Street, Suite 200 Buford GA 30518.
To This...
404-454-0232

Georgia among worst for childhood
obesity
C hildhood obesity continues to be an epi-
demic in Georgia. Our state has the third
highest rate of overweight and obese children
in the country, with more than one in three
children ages 10 to 17 considered overweight or
obese, according to a recent report by Trust for
America’s Health and the Robert Wood John-
son Foundation.
Obese children are more likely to suffer from a
whole host of chronic medical conditions, in-
cluding asthma, gallbladder disease, pneumo-
nia and Type 2 diabetes, and have risk factors
for cardiovascular disease, such as high blood
pressure and high cholesterol, typically only
found in adults. Overweight or obese children
also have a 70 percent chance of becoming
overweight or obese adults.
Poor health outcomes impact academic success,
too. Illness and injury can take children out of
school, and poorly managed chronic diseases,
such as asthma and diabetes, can distract them
from school work.
Childhood obesity has economic consequences
as well. As obese children are more likely to be
hospitalized, their parents have to miss work
to care for them, reducing family income and
worker productivity. Childhood obesity-related
healthcare in the U.S. costs an estimated $14
billion a year, according to researchers at Thom-
son Reuters.
“We know that healthy children with healthy
habits are more likely to be healthy adults,” said
Seema Csukas, M.D., Ph.D., Medical Director
of Child Wellness at Children’s Healthcare of
Atlanta. “Poor health outcomes not only im-
pact the child and his future, they also have se-
rious economic consequences for government,
business and families. As a children’s hospital,
we are all too aware of the consequences of
obesity.”
Health & Wellness
A recent Centers for Disease Control and Pre-
vention (CDC) report suggests community
strategies, such as encouraging breast-feeding
and improving physical education standards,
can positively impact childhood obesity rates.
Our state has the third
highest rate of overweight
and obese children in the
country, with more than one
in three children ages 10 to
17 considered overweight
or obese...
Breast-feeding exclusively for the first four
to six months followed by a combination of
breast-feeding and age-appropriate food for the
first year is thought to promote an infant’s abili-
ty to recognize internal hunger and satiety cues.
In Georgia, only about 33 percent of mothers
breast-feed their infants for the first six months,
according to the Division of Public Health.
Physical education is another important com-
ponent to combating childhood obesity. Studies
show that physical education increases students’
level of physical activity and improves overall
physical fitness. While most states, includ-
ing Georgia, require some physical education,
only two (Louisiana and New Jersey) meet the
weekly recommended amount of physical activ-
ity (at least 150 minutes for elementary school
students and at least 225 minutes for middle
and high school students) by the National As-
sociation for Sport and Physical Education and
American Heart Association.
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 15
Health & Wellness
Childhood obesity is a complicated is-
sue with no single solution. It is, how-
ever, preventable and there are many
ways parents can encourage their chil-
dren to lead healthier lifestyles. Family
participation is noted to be one of the
most effective ways to tackle childhood
obesity.
Children’s has developed a well-
ness website to encourage families to
adopt healthier lifestyles. MyFamily-
HealthSpot.org features personalized
meal planners, fitness and nutrition
trackers, health information and ac-
tivity ideas. Here, children can take an
active role in their own health. Educa-
tional games, child-friendly recipes and
reward points encourage kids to be ac-
tive and eat more fruits and vegetables.
As part of their child wellness strategy,
Children’s also has joined the Georgia
Children’s Health Alliance (GCHA)—a
statewide collaboration uniting pub-
lic, private, not-for-profit, business
and community sectors, and pediat-
ric health experts to create healthier
futures for children. GCHA focuses
on healthy births, childhood obesity,
and child abuse and neglect. March of
Dimes Georgia Chapter, Children’s and
Prevent Child Abuse Georgia serve as
the lead agencies for GCHA.
‘With more than 2.5
million children living
in Georgia, we have to
tackle childhood obesity
as a statewide issue
to ensure the health and
well-being of our
children,’ Dr. Csukas said.
16 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
Help keep your child active by
following these guidelines:
Infants (ages 12 months and younger) should:
• Interact with parents and/or caregivers in daily
physical activities that have them exploring
their environment.
• Be placed in a safe area that allows physical
activity and does not limit movement for long
periods of time.
• Take part in physical activity that helps develop
movement skills, such as crawling, pulling up
and walking.
Toddlers (ages 12 to 36 months) should:
• Take part in at least 30 minutes of daily,
structured physical activity and at least 60
minutes of unstructured physical activity
each day.
• Develop movement skills that are building
blocks for more complex tasks, such as kicking
a ball or running.
Preschoolers (ages 3 to 5) should:
• Take part in at least 30 minutes of daily,
structured physical activity and at least 60
minutes of unstructured physical activity daily.
• Develop movement skills that are building
blocks for more complex movement tasks, such
as throwing, catching, hopping or standing on
one leg.
Children and adolescents should:
• Take part in at least 60 minutes of
age-appropriate physical activity daily
• Most of the daily physical activity should be
moderate or vigorous aerobic activity.
• Part of the daily physical activity should include
muscle-strengthening activity at least three days
a week. Another part of daily physical activity
should include bone-strengthening activity at
least three days a week.
• Take part each day in a variety of
age-appropriate physical activities designed
to achieve optimal health, fitness and
performance benefits.
These guidelines for children are adapted from the National
Association for Sport and Physical Education and the U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services 2008 Physical
Activity Guidelines for Americans.* A full list of guidelines is
available at www.myfamilyhealthspot.org.
Specialized care can mean
quicker recoveries.

In addition to having dedicated pediatric specialists and

equipment designed specifically for kids, Children’s
offers streamlined care. For instance, if your child had
a CAT scan that needed further evaluation, we can call a
pediatric specialist directly, which could save you days,
possibly weeks, of stress and uncertainty. So the next time
your doctor recommends a specialist, ask to see a pediatric
specialist. For more information, visit us at www.choa.org

©2009 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Some physicians and affiliated
healthcare professionals who perform services at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta are independent
providers and are not our employees.

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 17
Health & Wellness
Mobility makeover
by Beth Green
W 2W: Tell us a little about Johnson’s
Pharmacy and how it came to be.
Anthony Johnson: Johnson’s Hometown Phar-
macy is really the result of a “local boy does
good” scenario. I was born, raised, and edu-
cated in Buford. My very first job was actually
in this pharmacy. At that time, the pharmacy
Our biggest asset is the
fact that we are a local,
hometown pharmacy. We
are part of the community
and we endeavor to treat
our customers as friends
and family.
was owned and operated by Bill Anglin and was
called Anglin’s Drug Store. I started out working
in the soda fountain. I dipped ice cream, made
milk shakes, and prepared outstanding coke
JOHNSON’S HOMETOWN PHARMACY
Old Fashioned Customer Service
85 E Main Street, Buford, GA 30518
18 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
floats. My favorite was called a nut sundae—ice
cream topped with pineapple, strawberries,
caramel, chocolate, whipped cream, chopped
walnuts, and a cherry—a weeks worth of calo-
ries! Those early years working for Mr. Anglin
really wet my appetite for pharmacy. I was able
to see the contribution that pharmaceutical care
made to the community. As a result, I decided
to enroll in pharmacy school at the University of
Georgia. After graduation, in 1979, I practiced
for a short time in a hospital pharmacy and then
for a number of years in chain pharmacies. Dur-
ing those various times, I never got away from
my roots in independent pharmacy. About
fourteen years ago, I came back to work for Mr.
Anglin, and after his retirement in 2006, I pur-
chased the pharmacy and renamed it Johnson’s
Hometown Pharmacy.
W2W: Tell us what types of mobility equipment
you carry.
Anthony Johnson: We carry a wide range of
mobility aids: crutches, canes, walkers, rollators,
transport chairs, wheelchairs and a few electric
scooters. One of the most diverse and useful
products is a relatively new product called the
conversion wheelchair. It looks like a traditional
wheelchair, but the large wheels can be removed
Caring for You and about You
• Compound RX’s
• Support Hose
• Ostomy Supplies
• Home Health Care
(770) 945-9501 Supplies
Fax (770) 932-6169 • Crutches
• Wheelchair Sales
We Bill Medicare/ and Rentals
Medicaid Direct • Bubble Packaging
Monday - Friday 8am - 7pm
• Watkins Products
Saturday 8am - 5pm • Cemetery Flowers
 Health & Wellness

by pushing a single button and you are left with a
transport chair which is much lighter and easier
to handle. All of these products have undergone
quite a transformation over the last few years.
The consumer no longer wants a sterile alumi-
num looking product. They want to be able to
choose from a variety of colors and styles. We
now have mobility aids of various colors (red,
blue, green, pink) and all types of designs (flow-
ers, paisley, “red hat”), as well as many differ-
ent accessories (pouches, baskets, cup holders)
available.
W2W: How does offering these products help
assist local patrons with their mobility needs?
Anthony Johnson: The majority of people who
use mobility aids are elderly and the most prev-
alent cause for use is osteoporosis. Other causes
may include dizziness, which can result from
blood pressure and heart medication, muscle
weakness, and orthopedic issues. It is estimated
that after age 85, nearly ⅓ to ½ of seniors will
suffer a fall which often results in immobility.
Using various mobility aids will help alleviate
the impact of immobility, increase indepen-
dence, the quality of life, and improve the health
and emotional status of the individual.
W2W: What types of issues do you feel the
products and services that Johnson’s offers can
help your customers with?
Anthony Johnson: We try to be extremely
sensitive to the needs of our customers. Most
customers who come into our store for medi-
cation, mobility aids, or other durable medical
equipment would rather spend their money on
other things. Our pharmacists and technicians
try to spend time with the customer. We answer
their questions as best as we can and try to al-
leviate those feelings of anxiety and insecurity.
Our goal is to make the experience as easy as
possible for the customer. Johnson’s Hometown
Pharmacy is Medicare accredited and will bill
Medicare where appropriate, so that our cus-
tomer does not have to deal with confusing and
difficult paperwork.
W2W: Aside from being a locally owned phar-
macy, what can you tell our readers that will
help them choose Johnson’s?
Anthony Johnson: Our biggest asset is the fact
that we are a local, hometown pharmacy. We are
part of the community, and we endeavor to treat
our customers as friends and family. For a small
independent, we offer a wide variety of products
and services. In addition to the other services
and products mentioned, we do prescription
compounding and unit dose packaging, and of-
fer stormy supplies, diabetic shoes, and some re-
spiratory supplies. We strive to meet the diverse
needs of our community.
W2W: What is your vision for Johnson’s in the
future?
Anthony Johnson: I believe the future is very
bright for pharmacy. I have invested in tech-
nology, which should free our pharmacists and
technicians from many routine dispensing ac-
tivities in order to provide more patient inter-
action and expansion of clinical services. With
the aging of our community, we also need an
expansion of durable medical equipment and
mobility aids. In the very near future, we are
also expanding our compounding capabilities,
especially in the area of bioequivalent hormonal
replacement therapy.

Getting in shape for Spring!

• Spring is all about color, so take advantage of colorful fruits and vegetables.
• Rethink your workout.Take a break from the gym and use the warmer weather as
motivation to exercise outside.You’ll also gain your daily dose of Vitamin D from the sun!
• As further motivation for working out, buy a new workout wardrobe. Lose the sweat
pants from winter, and show off the new body you’re working towards.
• Take time to clear your mind. Use the warmer weather for outdoors yoga or meditation.
• Use your lunch breaks to their fullest potential by walking around your workplace. Both
slow and fast walks will increase weight loss.

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 19
Family Stuff

Self-defense or self preservation?

by Charles Gettig

I n today’s world we face many dangers that

must be dealt with in order to live a long
healthy life. People in society must learn not Everyone wants to get in
only to defend themselves against the criminal
element but also the toll taken on our bodies shape and get healthier...the
in daily life, such as obesity, disease, stress and toughest part is taking the
aging. Everyone wants to get in shape and get
healthier and essentially be happier. The tough- first step.
est part is taking the first step. I recommend you
begin a program that offers the benefits of opti-
mal health, self-defense and personal develop-
ment which has a regimen with which you can So……What is Choi Kwang-Do? (pronounced
have fun. If you have fun, you’ll stick to it. choy – kwan – doe)

My name is Charles Gettig. I am a 4th Degree
Black Belt and Head Chief Instructor at the
Choi Kwang-Do Martial Arts Studio. Along
with my partner and Chief Instructor Gene
Kerley, we have a studio located in Buford. My
wife, Jennifer Gettig, is a 2nd Degree Black Belt
and Chief Instructor. She is an integral part of
running the school and teaches Choi at many
day care centers throughout the area. We are a
family oriented business. Our program is con-
sidered the “Martial Art for Life.” People of all
walks of life can practice this new exercise work
out alternative that is NOT the stereotypical
“karate” class.
It is a unique martial art based on scientific
principles and developed to promote optimum
health, fitness and self-defense, not winners in
sports competitions.
Choi Kwang-Do was developed by Grandmas-
ter Kwang Jo Choi between 1978 and 1987 and
has proven to be the most effective martial arts
system in the world. Choi Kwang-Do’s natural,
easy-to-learn, sequential movements maximize
your body’s force-producing capabilities, but
more importantly, they increase opportunities
to enhance your health. It’s a unique program
based on modern scientific principles from hu-

IT
TRY FOR
W
NO 24.99
$
www.bufordckd.com
1620 Buford Hwy. (across from K-mart & Kroger), Buford

20 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women


(left to right) Chief Instructor Gene Kerley and son with
Head Chief Instructor Chuck and Jennifer Gettig and daughter
man anatomy, physiology (the branch of bio-
logical sciences dealing with the functioning of
organisms), psychology (the science of mental
life), kinesiology (the branch of physiology
that studies mechanics and anatomy in relation
to human movement), neurophysiology (the
branch of neuroscience that studies the physiol-
ogy of the nervous system) and biomechanics
(human movement science).
Choi Kwang-Do is not designed for competi-
tion and does not follow the intensity of sports
training. The system is meant for all individuals
who want to learn real-life, practical self-de-
fense skills and achieve a greater level of health
and well-being, not people solely interested in
winning trophies. Because it’s a non-contact,
non-fighting, non-competitive art that stresses
mental, physical, emotional and social devel-
opment, Choi Kwang-Do promotes non-vio-
lent resolutions to conflict, practical solutions
to cardiovascular improvement, and enjoyable
methods of exercise. In addition, with competi-
tion removed, students can continually develop
– not against each other, but with each other.
With a progressive system from White belt to
the highest level of 9th Degree Black belt, Choi
Kwang-Do always offers you something new
and challenging to learn, experience and enjoy.
Since developing Choi Kwang-Do, Grandmaster
Choi has taught the American military at Fort
Benning, Georgia, the largest infantry training
Family Stuff
People of all
walks of life can
practice this new
exercise work
out alternative
that is NOT the
stereotypical
‘karate’ class.
center in the U.S.; the U.S. Rangers; Georgia law
enforcement officers; narcotic agents; and tens
of thousands of dedicated Choi Kwang-Do stu-
dents around the world. Our training is based
on individual needs, capabilities, skill levels and
age. Our students range in years from 3 to 90,
and some of our instructors are over 70. Since
our primary goals are to prevent or reduce ill-
ness and disease and to promote optimum
health and longevity by minimizing degenera-
tion of body and mind, we also welcome those
with limitations, such as individuals who use
wheelchairs, amputees, the blind, and those
with maladies such as heart disease, diabetes,
arthritis, multiple sclerosis and osteoporosis.
Everyone is welcome at Choi Kwang-Do. Classes
are especially popular for women and teen girls
looking to get in shape and also empower them-
selves with the confidence of the self-defense
skills developed in each class. Choi Kwang-Do
is a unique way to improve the mind and body
together to achieve optimal health, self-defense
and personal development. Our school believes
in improving our community through its peo-
ple. We hold “Stranger Danger” self-defense
seminars for many schools. Self-defense classes
for women and teens are very popular as well as
seminars for active, older adult communities. If
you would like to find out more of what we can
do for you, please feel free to contact one of our
locations at 770-271-8822 or email at getchoi@
bellsouth.net.
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 21
Professional

OURcard members
by Tyler Ryan

T hey say that “Necessity is the mother of

invention.” The ebb and flow of the econ-
omy forces consumers to reevaluate how they
spend money and forces companies to rethink
their marketing strategy to maintain the rela-
tionship with the scrutinizing customer. In an
effort to bring the two together, partners Brian
Leonard and Gene Kerley invented an interest-
ing new approach called OURcard.
As the economy begins to show signs of life,
consumers are still looking for deals, and busi-
nesses realize to remain competitive, they must
continue to offer them. Moreover, small mom
and pop stores find it hard to compete with the
large discount chains. OURcard CEO Gene Ker-
ley believes that 0-4% of traditional marketing
has an impact on the consumer. Not only does
this represent an ineffective, costly expense for
small business, it also means that the consumer,
by not taking advantage of the information, is
not befitting by the business’ efforts to build the
relationship.
The OURcard program is distributed free
to consumers, on a wallet or keychain card,
through various outlets in the community.
Once the consumers sign up for free online at
...consumers are still
looking for deals, and
businesses realize to remain
competitive, they must
continue to offer them.
www.ourcardmember.com, this will give them
access to special offers from the local business
who have become members. They will also
receive select emails promoting special offers
made by those businesses.
Businesses who participate in the OURcard
program have access to a personalized landing
page at www.ourcardMember.com. The mer-
chants have full control over their message, of-
fers, and overall marketing, which according to
CFO Brian Leonard, is delivered to the small
business at “fraction of the cost” of traditional
marketing.
According to President of OURcard Gene Ker-

Get instant savings with OURcard when you visit our

Business Members. It’s a win-win for everyone!
No more clipping paper coupons!

To get OURcard or become a business member,

call 770-271-1113
or visit www.ourcardmember.com

5014 B U Bowman Dr. • Ste 400 Buford, GA 30518

22 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women


ley, OURcard “exists to partner with small busi-
ness owners…” in an effort to create a long rela-
tionship with customers, who are located within
blocks or a couple miles of their store. OURcard
is projecting that over 200,000 households in
the first year will be enrolled in the program, all
of whom will be looking for those savings and
offers that can change daily with the program.
The program, from both the consumer and
business side of the fence seems to be built on
a solid concept.
The OURcard program is
distributed free to consumers,
on a wallet or keychain card,
through various outlets in the
community.
The model of OURcard allows small busi-
nesses, with limited budgets, to maximize their
marketing dollars, while providing consumers
much needed savings and special offers.
There is more information, for both businesses
and consumers at www.ourcardMember.com.
Happy shopping!
Professional
Why should you become
an OURcard member?
Simple. You want to save money, and
OURcard gives you instant savings. When
you visit our Business Members, the card
(not a credit card or points card) gives
you immediate discounts and other ben-
efits. Our goal is to rebuild our smalltown
communities by connecting Consumer
Members to Business Members. You use
the card to get savings, the businesses gain
loyal customers.
It’s a win-win for everyone! No more clip-
ping paper coupons!
Planning a date night on a budget? Scan
our deals at local restaurants and save in
style. Want to find a new salon? Your hair
and your wallet will thank you for having
OURcard.
Wish your favorite businesses were
OURcard members? Once you’ve reg-
istered, just let us know and we’ll work
to bring them into the network. The
OURcard community is always growing!
Register at www.ourcardMember.com!
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 23
Professional

photo by Clark Berry Photography

(left to right) Kelly O’Brien, Agent; Connie Shealy, Agent; Theresa Miley, Agent; Sandy Khan, Agent; Terri Brock, Agent;
Amy Masincupp, Agent; Wanda Witherspoon, Agency Field Executive; Denise Thomas, Agent; Marilyn Wilson, Agent; Misty
Stathos, Agent;Veronica Isaac, Agent; Andrea Ulmer, Agency Field Executive; and Morgan Faulkenberry, Agent

Let it Be “Your Style of Success”

Ladies of State Farm Agency

T here is no one quite like you. Your style is

a reflection of the people you care about,
the places you’ve been, and the experiences you
If you want to build a successful career while
balancing work and family, helping others, and
giving back to your community, you can do that
have gathered along the way. It’s about putting too! Who says you can’t have it all?
yourself in a position to make a difference in the
lives of those your touch along the way.

Running your own business isn’t easy. Nothing It’s not just about earning
worthwhile ever is. But State Farm® agents are
driven—driven to do work that matters and a living. It’s about building
helps people. It’s work that contributes to your
community in positive ways and puts you at the
something great, expanding
center of important events. your earning potential, and
It’s not just about earning a living. It’s about
giving back.
building something great, expanding your
earning potential, and giving back. Few things
are more fulfilling and energizing than doing Makeover yourself in a new career as a State
meaningful work that makes a difference in the Farm® Agent! Who says you can’t have it all?
lives of others. That’s what being a State Farm® This is Where Dream Meets Opportunity!
agent is all about!

24 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

“Let Me Introduce
you to the
State Farm® Agency
Opportunity
“

www.sfyourstyle.com

Nicole Billings-Turner, CLU CDR CIR

Southern Zone Agency Recruiter

Call 770.418.5614 today and ask

Nicole about becoming a State Farm agent!

Mobile: 770.313.6056 | nicole.billings-turner.jius@statefarm.com

LIKE A GOOD NEIGHBOR, STATE FARM IS THERE.®

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 25
Professional
Sex-trafficking fight goes beyond
streets
by Tyler Ryan
T he mere thought of it turns the stomach,
makes you shake your head in disbelief and
weep for the young souls that are involved and
can’t find their own way out, the sex trafficking
of children and young adults. Yes, you read it
correctly. Children as young as ten and eleven
are being exploited everyday. Another scary fact
before we discuss the good news. Two-hundred
to three-hundred young girls are trafficked a
month, IN GEORGA. Over the last decade, law
enforcement has targeted those who take ad-
vantage of these young people, making arrests,
and large scale investigations into others, but it
takes more than criminal investigations to fight
what almost seems to be like digging a hole at
the beach.
Children as young as ten and
eleven are being exploited
everyday...two-hundred to
three-hundred young girls
are trafficked a month, IN
GEORGIA.
These kids are often victims of abuse, are out-
casts at school, have hard home lives, and these
pimps appear as heroes, swooping in to save
them, only to make them even bigger victims.
I promised good news, right? It was these facts
that led the congregation of the North Avenue
Presbyterian Church to ask their leader, Rev.
Scott Weimer, how they could become part
of the cure. What they came up with is Street
GRACE (Galvanizing Resources Against Child
Exploitation), which is a non-denominational
alliance of churches and faiths that have made
26 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
the eradication of the sexual exploitation of
children in Atlanta their mission. To put it in
the words of Street GRACE, they “Create an
aligned, powerful, highly-resourced movement
of churches united with public, private, and so-
cial sectors to bring the abolition of child sex
slavery and exploitation in Atlanta.”
Street GRACE turns to the over five-thousand
churches in Atlanta to come together and create
a network that shares the same goal. By sharing
all the strengths and resources they work to-
gether to combat the commercial sexual exploi-
tation of children, which GRACE calls CSEC.
In the time that has followed, Street GRACE has
seen the growth of the program from their Pres-
byterian congregation to faiths including Jews,
Muslims, Christians, and even non-believers.
Street GRACE is now led by Cheryl DeLuca-
Johnson of the 12Stone Church in Gwinnett
County, who came to the group with a strong
background working with addiction treatment
programs. In addition, she has a specialization
in women’s issues, and has held several posi-
tions at Metro Atlanta Recovery Residences.
With this strong leadership background, and
the help of all those involved, Street GRACE
has created a database of information available
to churches, with best practices, service provid-
ers, evaluations, and more to be more effective
in their respective efforts. They have created a
Church Mobilization Guide, which provides
framework, structure and strategy for the suc-
cessful eradication of CSEC. In addition, Street
GRACE tackles issue advocacy and aware-
ness. Through effective lobbying, community
wide organized awareness campaigns, and the
sharing of information and recourses of all the
churches involved, Street GRACE has become a
strong advocate for the victims of child sexual
exploitation in Atlanta, and eventually, around
the country.
 Professional

Ok, one more fact I would like to point out, as

you read these words and think “boy, stuff is bad
in Atlanta…” in May, Gwinnett police raided a
bar, and found a 15 year old girl stripping. I will
...she is involved in building
pause for a moment for you to re-read that line. community awareness,
In that case, 2 adults were arrested, and the girl
was returned to her mother. It’s these instances
mobilizing churches to the
that don’t surprise DeLuca-Johnson. It is a com- cause, and supporting those
mon occurrence, or perhaps something we
would rather doesn’t happen outside of the big non-profits giving direct aid
cities. Sadly, CSEC isn’t only happening in the
big cities.
to victimized and at-risk
children.
How can you make a difference? Get involved.
Street GRACE has a very informative website,
you can learn about the program, and if your and was instrumental in the changes that reno-
church or place of worship wants to get in- vated their women’s program.
volved there are even downloads for the plans
of action, and other information. Login to www. She has also served on Drug and Alcohol Advi-
streetgrace.org to find out how YOU can help. sory boards, worked with World Hope Interna-
tional on women’s issues in Sri Lanka, and vol-
Meet Cheryl DeLuca-Johnson unteered therapeutic services with Red Cross.
Cheryl DeLuca-Johnson is the Executive Direc-
tor of Street GRACE, a non-denominational She has been mar-
alliance of churches dedicated to the eradica- ried for 26 years
tion of the commercial sexual exploitation of to Ernie Johnson
children in Atlanta. As such, she is involved and they have four
in building community awareness, mobilizing children: Eric (24),
churches to the cause, and supporting those Maggie (22), Mi-
non-profits giving direct aid to victimized and chael (20), Carmen
at-risk children. (16). Her youngest
two children are
Cheryl is a Licensed Professional Counselor from orphanages in
(LPC) with a background specializing in wom- Romania and Para-
en’s issues, specifically women and addiction. Cheryl DeLuca-Johnson guay, respectively.
Prior to Street GRACE, Cheryl held several po-
sitions at Metro Atlanta Recovery Residences

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 27
 GALVANIZING RESOURCES

AGAINST
CHILD EXPLOITATION

HARSH REALITY... in Georgia

between 200-300 young girls
are SEXUALLY “trafficked...” EVERY month.

Join the fight...

against the Commercial
Sexual Exploitation of Children

• Volunteer
• Tell Others
• Become an Advocate GALVANIZING RESOURCES
AGAINST CHILD EXPLOITATION
Visit www.streetGRACE.org
to learn more. 607 Peachtree Street NE
Atlanta, GA 30308
Tel: 678.990.9513
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE. Email: info@StreetGRACE.org

28 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women


Up the stairs...a portrait of Wendy
Rouleau
by Beth Green
W endy Rouleau, owner of Portraits by
Wendy, has a charming yet unique por-
trait studio in Historic Buford. It is located in a
large loft space on Main Street, hence the name
of her newsletter, “Up the Stairs.” A combination
of studio and gallery, your eyes are drawn to ev-
ery photograph displayed as a work of art...
When you go ‘up the stairs’
to her studio, your eyes will
be drawn to photography that
tells the story of her subjects.
I am amazed how this wife and mother can
juggle her personal life with such a burgeoning
career and her charity work. Yet I have never
witnessed her without a smile on her face or a
kind word for someone.
When you go “up the stairs” to her studio, your
eyes will be drawn to photography that tells
the story of her subjects. Wendy says, “Life is a
story. I think of all the stories I could tell about
my family and many of yours. I’ve shared the joy
of your new additions, watched them take their
first steps, listened to detail of their big games.
And sadly hugged you when a loved one was
lost. These moments define who we are—they
are our story. Last year has been a challenging
one for many of us...and future chapters are un-
certain, but what is certain is that we must live
for today.”
She considers a photo session a chance for fami-
lies and individuals to tell their story. “Last year
it surprised me how many sessions included the
whole gang...Grandma, Grandpa and everyone
down the branch. These were very special. Yes,
Professional
they said it was difficult, someone thought they
were too fat and someone else thought they
were too busy, but they knew they had put it
off for too long. This was especially true for one
client who lost her father before they were able
to proof their family session. How precious do
you think those images are to her? Make this
the year to tell your family story. Remember,
NO EXCUSES!”
It doesn’t matter if you are taking those por-
traits of the whole family, hoping to capture that
graduating senior, just starting your family, or
if you need to update your head shot for a busi-
ness card. Wendy’s keen attention to detail, her
ability to see the beauty in all people, and pho-
tograph it in just the way you want to display
it makes Portraits by Wendy more than unique.
They are heirloom pieces.
Please take the time to browse through the
portraits in this magazine, from front to back
cover—they’re by Wendy. If you look closely,
her work is obvious. It’s that fine detail, the look
she has coaxed from the subjects, the window to
the personality. Her study of Brianna in “Future
Women to Look For” is case in point. Wendy
has studio sessions she does for high school
seniors called “The Edge.” No ordinary senior
portraits for these girls, these are cutting “edge”
studies of the transition of closing the door on
high school and opening the next phase, wheth-
er college or career.
Wendy is an award winner as well, from 2007
and 2009 from the Professional Photographer’s
Association. She was also nominated for 2009
“Woman of the Year” for Best of Gwinnett. This
woman is the consummate wife, mother and
photographer achieving her life’s dream through
capturing yours.
Delight in her work at www.portraitsbywendy.
com and no excuses, book an appointment!
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 29
Professional
Simply “Amazing”
M ike Merrick, owner of Merrick Furnish-
ings, LLC, is quickly making a name
for himself in the furniture industry. And that
name is “The Amazing Furniture Guy.”
Mike, Renee (wife) and Chloe Merrick
“I sell name brand residential furniture and bed-
ding throughout North Georgia and beyond,”
says Mike. “My business goal is simple—sell
furniture at the lowest prices possible and treat
customers with the highest respect and courte-
sy.” This formula generates trust that ultimately
leads to repeat sales.”
However, Mike’s winning formula has a unique
twist. He keeps his prices at minimum by cutting
overhead costs. “I offer factory-direct furniture
to your door,” says Mike. “I maintain streamline
warehouse and office operations. As a result, I
pass my cost savings onto my clientele.”
Mike’s clientele includes homeowners, home
30 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
builders, staging professionals and interior
decorators. In return, “The Amazing Furniture
Guy” participates in charity and community
activities. He recently signed with a major in-
‘My business goal is simple
— sell furniture at the
lowest prices possible and
treat customers with the
highest respect and courtesy.
surance carrier to offer discounted furniture to
greater Atlanta fire and flood victims.
Mike admits he did not champion the title “The
Amazing Furniture Guy.” Mike states satisfied
clients bestowed the title. “It’s catchy...so I ad-
opted it as my motto.”
Amazingly, Mike never thought he would own a
furniture business or the honorary title of “The
Amazing Furniture Guy.” Less than four years
ago, Mike was a successful public relations pro-
fessional and spokesperson for a Detroit auto-
maker.
“I expected to retire in the automotive industry,”
says Mike. “My vision was working 30 years and
receiving a gold watch upon my retirement.
However, God had a different plan for my fam-
ily. Plus, the sinking economy forced a lot of
good talent to jump ship.”
After retiring from the automotive business,
Mike decided to embrace his father’s trade.
“Thurman (my dad) is a seasoned furniture
dealer with over 35 years of experience,” says
Mike. My father built his business on excellent
customer service, honesty and low pricing.”
 Professional

Mike integrated his father’s ideals with market-

ing knowledge gained in the automotive busi-
ness. “Women are critical decision makers when
it comes to car purchasing. In fact, over 80% of
all vehicle purchases are determined or influ-
enced by women. Moreover, women are a driv-
ing force behind family furniture purchases.”
“If a woman is not happy with the product or
quality of service, there is no sale,” says Mike.
“And yet many businesses do not take into ac-
count the needs and preferences of female pa-
trons.”
Mike gained a unique perspective with women
in the business environment. The public rela-
tions profession is mostly women. Additionally,
my automotive directors and mentors were fe-
male,” Mike explains. “They shared the business
culture and ethos of today’s women.”
“In my PR role, I participated in numerous di-
versity groups and wrote women’s articles on
behalf of my female bosses. I learned enough
about women to earn my stripes—and a pay-
check,” laughs Mike. “My wife and daughter also
keep me in line.”
Mike’s automotive career is over, and a grow-
ing furniture business is now his focus. “Like
my father, I am dedicated to my customers by
selling top quality home furniture and bedding
‘If a woman is not happy
with the product or quality
of service, there is no sale,’
says Mike. ‘And yet many
businesses do not take into
account the needs and
preferences of female
patrons.’
at the lowest prices possible. And my primary
goal is understanding the needs of every cus-
tomer—including the many women who are
making key furniture decisions for their homes
and families.”
Mike “The Amazing Furniture Guy” owns Merrick
Furnishings, LLC in Buford, Georgia. He sells all types
of home furniture and bedding from value-oriented to
premium furniture brands. He encourages Gwinnett
Woman readers to contact him with their furniture
needs at (678) 656-2262 or mrmerrick@comcast.net.
Mike sells by appointment only. More information can
be found at www.theamazingfurnitureguy.com.

ERRICK
F ,
URNISHINGS LLC
“Lowest Priced Furniture
in Atlanta...and the Universe!”

Name brand furniture factory

direct to your door and home of...

The AMAZING Furniture Guy!

Call for AMAZING quotes! 678.656.2262 | www.merrickatlanta.com | Buford, Georgia

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 31
Services

Making the most of a maid service

by Melodee Hicks

T hink maid service is unattainable? Think

only the rich have maids? Think again.
Maid service today can be very affordable and
Ask for a “Pay-in-advance
Discounts”
Most maid companies need the cash flow. Once
make your life so much easier, helping you you find a service you like, ask them if they offer
have time for more important things like fam- a discount for paying in advance.
ily, sports and just plain relaxing. Here are some
helpful hints if you are seeking to hire a cleaning
company:
Maid service today can be
Do your research first
Make sure you get quotes for maid service. very affordable and make
Many franchise services are a lot higher priced your life so much easier.
than privately owned services. Get at least three
quotes.

Find a company that has a good
reputation
There are excellent websites that rank service
companies and give consumer testimonials
such as www.BeanPool.com, www.ServiceMagic.
com and www.Kudzu.com.
Choose a company that has
insurance
This protects you in case of any damage or theft
to make sure your home and belongings are
covered while the maid service is there.
Make sure you tidy up your house
before your cleaning day
Put things away before they get there. Pick up
dirty clothes, toys, bathroom counters, and do
your dishes. This way, the maids spend their
time cleaning your home. All maids have an al-
lotted time to spend on your home. They have
a schedule of customers for the day. They hon-
estly can’t spend all day at your house unless you
pay hourly, of course. So tidying up before they
get there will help get your house cleaner in the
long run.

Serving All of North Metro & Downtown Atlanta

770-993-7075 • www.maidyourday.com
Maintenance/General Cleaning: Bed Rooms, Living Areas, Kitchens, Bathrooms, Windows
Detail/Initial Cleaning: Everything above plus deep washing and wiping down of all
baseboards, window sills, blinds, shutters, ledges, door jams, woodwork, and stair
banisters, plus light fixtures Visit our website
or call us
Additional Services: Refrigerator and Oven Cleaning, Sweeping Porches and for special offers!
Garages, Laundry (no ironing)

32 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

 Services

Ask what cleaning products they use

Everyone’s preferences are different. Letting
them know what you like only ensures you get
more value from your service. Don’t be afraid
to request something specific, as far as cleaning
products.

Look for different payment options

You should be able to choose cash, check or
credit card as your method of payment.

Good customer service

Make sure the customer service person or per-
son you speak with is pleasant and helpful when
you call.

Recurring appointments
If you desire a regular cleaning schedule, ask
for recurring appointments—the same day and
time each time so you can know when to expect
your maids. Don’t be afraid to request
Ask for the same team each time
something specific, as far as
You deserve to feel comfortable with your maids, cleaning products.
and maids work much better and more efficient
when they are cleaning houses they “know.”

Make early appointments

If you prefer to be home when your house is it is best to have an 8:00am or 8:30am appoint-
cleaned, keep in mind your appointment time ment. That will be the first appointment of the
will become less exact as the day goes on. If you day. First appointments are much more exact,
have to have someone there at a specific time, and you’ll fee much better about your service.

DoneDRone
ite LR ite Lawns
awns
770-530-7186
770-530-7186
Call for Call
on-site
for written
on-site
estimate.
written estimate.

All types of
AllLawn
typesCare
of Lawn Care

All work guaranteed!

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 33
Services

Taxes: Are you proactive?

by Melissa A. Probst, CPA

T ax planning is an integral part of under-

standing your personal finances and your
own unique tax situation. This is especially
true and even more critical if you own a small
business. Your personal and your business tax
situation and liabilities are very closely linked
to one another. Do not be shocked or surprised
when their tax return is completed. Consult a
professional, understand your options, and plan
ahead to minimize your tax liability and elimi-
nate surprises.
Preparing a tax return is as simple as reporting
what has already taken place. Did you take ev-
ery legal avenue available to you during the year
in order to minimize your tax liability? Off the
shelf software or “the tax people” may or may
not be able to fully help you. Tax laws are always
changing. Making sure that you take advantage
A thorough evaluation of your
income and deductions can
pinpoint situations that you
can use to your advantage.
of every one is a complex and time consuming
task. This is what a Certified Public Accountant
is trained for.
Bear in mind the distinction between different
types of tax professionals. There are book keep-
ers, there are companies that hire seasonal em-
ployees to do your taxes, there are off the shelf
software packages, and there are CPA’s. CPA’s

Small Business Specialist

Melissa A. Probst
Certified Public Accountant
•Certified QuickBooks ProAdvisor
Installation • Initial Setup • Training
•CFO Services
•Bookkeeping
Over 10 Years of Accounting Experience •Financial Statement Preparation
•Tax Services
Planning & Advice

Full service accounting for all your

small business and individual needs Individual Tax Returns
•Tax Planning & Advice
•Tax Notice Assistance
•Simple Tax Returns
Call for an appointment today •Complex Tax Returns
(678) 714-8052 •Multi-State
•Small Business Income
•Personal Income
Member American Institute of CPAs, Georgia Society of CPAs, •Capital Transactions
Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
QuickBooks and QuickBooks ProAdvisors are registered trademarks and/or •Rental Income
registered service marks of Intuit Inc., used with permission.

34 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women


must have an accounting degree, pass the CPA
exam, take at least 40 hours of professional edu-
cation each year to stay current, be accredited,
licensed, and insured. This is a very rigorous
process, and rightfully so. A CPA is trained to
work with you to make informed decisions that
will benefit your unique financial situation.
Do you typically owe taxes with your return?
Do you know what events have been happening
to cause this, or what portion of your income
is being taxed? A thorough evaluation of your
income and deductions can pinpoint situations
that you can use to your advantage.
If you always get a large refund, you are really
“loaning” the IRS money. You can decrease your
withholding amounts, which will result in larger
paychecks during the year, as opposed to a large
refund at tax time.
Accessories  Bedroom  Childrens Furniture  Dining Room Furniture
Home Office Furniture  Hot Tubs and Spas  Living Room Furniture  Mattress Sets  Tables
50-80% Less Than Traditional Stores
Services
If you own a business, the income (or loss) from
the business will have a direct affect on your
personal tax liability. If the business is profitable,
asset purchases can decrease the net income re-
ported on the tax return. If there is a loss, you
run the risk of losing some of your itemized
deductions.
Do you put off preparing your income tax re-
turn until the last minute? Are you concerned
that you are going to owe money to the IRS,
or perhaps wondering how large a refund you
A CPA is trained to work
with you to make informed
decisions that will benefit
your unique financial situation.
will receive? Taxes are inevitable, but you can be
proactive and take the uncertainty out of your
tax situation. Work closely with a tax profes-
sional to make sure that you are getting the most
benefit for your unique situation. Tax planning
is an ongoing process and it is the most impor-
tant action that you can take to minimize your
tax liability.
Atlanta's Best Kept Secret
ATLANTIC
®
BEDDING AND FURNITURE
(678) 270-6218
ATLANTA
www.atlanticbeddingandfurniture.com
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 35
Services

The American dream. Take two.

by Tyler Ryan

O wning your own successful business is a

dream a lot of us share…not one many of
us see to reality. Imagine the hard work and little ...it was time for Rick Tanner,
luck that goes into doing it twice. And we’re not
talking two different great ideas…we’re talking and Mike Chartrand,
about one great idea. believing that to get it right
In 1986, Rick Tanner and his partner Mike “CT” you must keep it in the
Chartrand opened Tanners, a chain that by the
mid-nineties would see stores all over Atlanta. family, brought in nephew
It was the consistent food and service that made Jeremy Heeren to help
Tanners a favorite. In 1997, Rick sold the fran-
chise, and looked forward to much needed and realize the American dream
deserved rest. It was then, that the famous res- of owning a successful
taurant chain, was forced to close its doors.
business...AGAIN.
It turned out that the new company, in its de-
sire to make even more profit, changed recipes,
switched to cheaper frozen products, and the
magic that had made Tanners the success was had ever happened to him. Since the stores car-
gone. Tanner says it was the worst thing that ried his names, it was his friends and neighbors

(left to right) Chuck Tanner, Jeremy Heeren, and Mike Chartrand

36 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

 Services

Rick Tanner’s Grille & Bar Since 1986

LIFE’S HARD. EAT GOOD. Rotisserie Chicken • Chicken Fingers • Wings
Chicken Lips • BBQ Ribs • Pulled Pork • Veggies
33 Buford Village Way, Suite 317 • Buford, GA
(In Buford Village – Intersection of Hamilton Mill & Buford Hwy.)
770-271-TOGO (8646)

Book our Back Room for any Occasion!

We CATER for All Occasions!

Churches • Schools • Offices • Reunions
Also Located at: Pickup or Delivery & More!
5810 Bond St.
Cumming, GA Make Your
770-205-5512 Reservations Now for Large OPEN EVERY DAY:
In Vickery Village Shopping or Small Parties 11am - 10pm
Center at Post Rd. & Major Rd.

who would waste no time in telling how things
has changed. The doors closed soon after, and
the grills that had filled so many bellies with
great food were shut down.
A few years later, it was time for Rick Tanner
and Mike Chartrand, believing that to get it
right you must keep it in the family, brought
in nephew Jeremy Heeren to help realize the
American dream of owning a successful busi-
ness…AGAIN. Tanner’s once again fired up
the grills, dusted off the recipes, and began to
spread the word that Tanner’s run by TANNER
was back in business.
Fresh veggies like green beans with real hock,
macaroni with homemade cheese sauce, the
world famous chicken and prices that range
items. Chicken Lips seem to jump off the page
as you scan. Not to worry, there aren’t chickens
running all over Georgia that can’t whistle. Ac-
cording to Chartrand, Chicken Lips are fried
egg rolls full of fresh chicken and cheese. Speak-
ing of chicken…there may be signs somewhere
about all of the frozen burgers some places have
served. Tanner estimates that since 1986, they
have served over one hundred and fifty MIL-
LION chicken fingers.
Rick, CT, and Jeremy are now also bringing
their fresh recipes, family atmosphere, and even
Chicken Lips to Buford Village, as they open a
second Tanner’s location, at the corner of Ham-
ilton Mill Road and Buford Highway in Buford.
They’ve even added a few more touches, like a
selection of micro-brews to the proven food and
atmosphere Rick and the family have crafted
over 20 years.

Tanner estimates that since You can download a copy of the menu at www.
tannerschicken.com, and the promise of the
1986, they have served website is near. Until then, turn off the com-
puter, head to Buford, or the location at 5910
over one hundred and fifty Bethelview Road in Cumming at the Vickery
MILLION chicken fingers. Shopping Center. Grab a table, and ask Rick to
cook up some Chicken Lips.

from $6-$9 is all among the tradition that
Tanner’s has brought back. A lot of the dishes
folks enjoyed twenty years before appear on the
menu again, along with some new, interesting
Tanners is located at 5910 Bethelview Road, Cumming,
GA 30040, and 33 Buford Village Way, Buford, GA
30518.

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 37
Celebrating the Survivor in you!
What is surviving?
by Tyler Ryan
S urvival isn’t a “live or die” thing. It’s
a mental thing. You can continue to
breathe and not survive. These are the thoughts
of Donna Whitten who, nine years ago at the
age of 39, was diagnosed with breast cancer.
Perhaps Donna is not your average woman who
survived this devastating experience. The way
she handled daily life and beyond might raise
an eyebrow or two.
Sadly, Donna’s diagnosis is not unusual. She
did everything she was always told to do. She
checked her body often and had scheduled
mammograms. The tests were clear. Several
weeks after one of these exams, she noticed a
discharge while she was in the shower. Her Gy-
necologist told her it was probably nothing. No
family history of cancer, no reason for alarm.
Thankfully he ordered tests to be sure. Within
three weeks, her life was changed forever. She
had a mastectomy and was now someone bat-
tling breast cancer.
The whole process left her in a fog. She was a
39 year old mother and wife and fighting this
potentially deadly disease. As she relates the
story, she was stunned after hearing the news
from the specialist that her biopsy revealed a
stage 0 DCIS and a 6-7 cm mass in her breast.
It happened so quickly, she didn’t even consider
bringing her husband to the appointment with
the doctor. Her thoughts later were, “How do I
tell him? How do I tell my daughter?” She did
tell her husband but her daughter?...that would
prove to be quite a but harder. A mother’s in-
stinct is to protect her children. A teenager has
enough to worry about, right? But Ashleigh,
whose faith in God was already planted by her
mom, knew God was in control.
The three weeks between the diagnosis and the
mastectomy seemed like an eternity. Donna
kept working and tried to put it out of her mind
as much as possible. The big “what if ’s” domi-
nate your mind. It was late at night, when the
family was asleep and the work was done, that
it hurt. Donna spent many nights crying out to
38 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women
God and praying. In those nights alone, she real-
ized this wasn’t a matter of living or dying—that
is God’s choice. It is a matter of how you LIVE.
Can you survive and continue on, accepting His
will or simply give up?
The day before the procedure she wore a t-shirt
that had a red circle with a line through it over
the breast that was
to be removed. After
the initial shock from
onlookers, those sad
faces would turn to
smiles and laughter.
That, in a nutshell, is
Donna Whitten’s ap-
proach to life.
Donna Whitten Over the next few
months, there were
bad days, but to Donna, the good ones stand
out over time. Her parents, who had not spo-
ken for forty years, found peace and were able
to communicate their concerns over their
daughter at the hospital. A friend bought her
a bra and a prosthetic so she could get back to
work and keep busy. Her family wouldn’t even
have Thanksgiving dinner until she was out of
the hospital. She knew the prayers of her entire
church were lifted up for her and being an-
swered.
Two weeks after the procedure she was back at
work. She was proving to herself and the world
that she would not only survive this ultimate test
of faith and character, but live life to the fullest.
Over the last nine years, she has lived a normal
life. She is still checked routinely by her doctor
but her tests are clear. She has learned some very
valuable lessons which she shares with us: “pay
attention to your body and don’t be afraid to
question your doctor!” Donna also lives in the
NOW. The “I’ll do it when...” needs to be TO-
DAY. Don’t wait for the “ifs” and “untils” and
“maybe somedays”. We never know when we
will run out of them. For Donna Whitten and
her family, life is to be lived every day.

Sugar Cookie Dolls & Jewels
by Toni Kelly
I am a 39 year old stay at home mother of two,
running a successful cottage industry, and
here’s my story:
About six years ago, I was in desperate need
of some “me time” so I struck up a friendship
with a glue gun, and before you knew it, a fairy
doll was born! Sadly, my grandmother passed
away around that time. While helping my mom
clean out my grandmother’s closet, I had an “ah
ha!” moment. You see, my grandmother was
anything but typical. She was foxy! She always
had her hair beauty shop perfect, makeup flaw-
lessly applied, wearing something fancy and due
to a height complex, she ALWAYS wore heels.
Of course, she would be carrying a matching
...when someone orders a
pink ribbon doll from my
website, I donate $5 to the
Susan G. Komen for the
Cure organization.
handbag and wearing all the right accessories.
I guess just looking into her closet and seeing
all of her things together like that made me re-
ally reflect on her personality. I thought about
how she would dress everyday as if anticipating
something special would happen. She was so
happy, funny and positive. It’s hard to explain it
exactly, but I left my grandmother’s house that
day feeling somehow inspired.
I ended up inheriting a vast collection of cos-
tume jewelry, fabric, handbags, shoes, etc.
When I say vast, I mean that she apparently
NEVER threw anything away. It has something
to do with growing up during a depression;
I guess we could all learn a lesson from that!
Anyway, with my newfound inspiration, I start-
ed incorporating those inherited items into my
craft projects. It was like a floodgate was lifted
Celebrating the Survivor in you!
and all this creativity came flowing out. I started
making lots of little whimsical dolls and orna-
ments with her costume jewelry and other odds
and ends. The reaction that I received from my
family and friends was just enough to make me
decide to start my own
business that I named
Sugar Cookie Dolls. I
named it that in honor of
my late grandma, Mar-
garet Cooke Milam, also
known as “Cookie.”
In the summer of 2005,
I was diagnosed with
breast cancer. Luckily, it
was caught before it had
spread. That experience “Imagine Angel”
left me with a strong Pink Ribbon Item
sense of “so glad to still
be here” and with a strong urge to tell every
woman that I know to get a mammogram. It
also gave my creations a new and important
focus. I started adding a pink ribbon to most
of my dolls and when someone orders a pink
ribbon doll from my website, I donate $5 to the
Susan G. Komen for the Cure organization.
In January of 2006, I started making jewelry. I
would have never pictured myself as a jewelry
designer. It just sort of accidentally happened.
That’s when my business became Sugar Cookie
Dolls & Jewels. I have recently been incorporat-
ing some of my Grandma Cookie’s jewelry into
my jewelry creations.
People tell me that my pixie dolls make them
feel happy or that seeing what I have created
makes them laugh. People tell me that what I’m
doing has inspired them. That to me is the big-
gest compliment that I could receive. I guess my
goal is to remind women to get a mammogram
and to also encourage everyone to celebrate
their life! Be Happy! Stay Positive!
To learn more or to purchase from Toni’s collection,
visit www.sugarcookiedolls.com.
www.gwinnettwoman.sc 39
Celebrating the Survivor in you!
Celebrating...Life
by Wendy Rouleau

I t was just an idea several years ago when I

got an e-mail with a simple ”help!” in the
subject line. It was from someone whom I’d
never met before with a very special request.
Share with us a special story…whether it is
yours or one of a dear friends. We want to give
this experience to a woman so that she knows
her family and friends are there with her during

Sometimes even
the most difficult
times in our lives
are times that need
to be captured
and celebrated.

difficult times and embrace it,

photos by Portraits by Wendy
The Lee Family
It read, “I have a unique situation in that I will
be starting a new chemotherapy drug soon and
I was hoping to have pictures of myself with my
two kids (ages 6 and 14) and husband taken be-
fore losing my hair again.” Of course I called her,
and we found the first appointment available.
capture it and cherish it.
Please forward all entries to
wendy@portraitsbywendy.com.
One will be selected to come
experience a Relationship session with Wendy
Rouleau of Portraits by Wendy and receive a
16x20 portrait. Their story will be shared in the
next issue of Gwinnet Woman in hopes of in-
spiring others to take a moment to Celebrate….
family, love, and life.

What happened next was so unexpected, and it

changed me as a photographer, an artist and a
mother forever. I shared in the celebration of a Portraits by Wendy
family—the Lee Family—and their special mo- Historic Buford
770-831-0922
ment to just be together and experience their
www.portraitsbywendy.com
love for one another.

Sometimes even the most difficult times in our

lives are times that need to be captured and cel-
ebrated. For that moment, they forgot that Mom pictured left:
was sick and they remembered that they are a Wendy Rouleau
family that shares a unique relationship. We
want to Celebrate that—Celebrate your family!

40 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 41
Business & Web Directory
Accountant
Melissa A. Probst, CPA.................................................................................................................34
Consumer Discounts
OURcard........................................................................................................................................22
www.ourcardmember.com
Furniture
Atlantic Bedding and Furniture..................................................................................................35
www.atlanticbeddingandfurniture.com
Merrick Furnishings, LLC...........................................................................................................30
www.merrickatlanta.com
Healthcare
Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta...............................................................17, Inside Back Cover
www.choa.org
Insurance
State Farm......................................................................................................................................25
Lawn Care
Done Rite Lawns...........................................................................................................................33
Maid Service
Maid Your Day..............................................................................................................................32
www.maidyourday.com
Martial Arts
Choi Kwang-Do Martial Arts Studio..........................................................................................20
www.bufordckd.com
Pharmacy
Johnson’s Hometown Pharmacy.................................................................................................18
Photographer
Portraits by Wendy.......................................................................................................................41
www.portraitsbywendy.com
Physical Trainer
Wicked Training............................................................................................................................14
www.wickedtraining.com
Resources
Buford Business Alliance.............................................................................................................23
www.visitbuford.com
City of Buford...................................................................................................Inside Front Cover
www.visitbuford.com
StreetGrace................................................................................................................................28
www.streetgrace.org
Restaurants
Rick Tanner’s Grille & Bar...........................................................................................................37
Salon
Studio 93 Salon................................................................................................................................8
www.studio93salon.com
Wellness Center
Body & Nature...............................................................................................................................13
www.bodyandnatureweb.com

42 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

 A Personal Note

T his January 5th marked the five year anniversary of my precious father’s death. I cannot ex-
press in words the grief that began to overtake me at his passing. I could write pages filled
with imagery and metaphors and still you would read them without comprehending the depth of
my pain, unless you have lost a parent. I felt as if I were drowning in a sea of sorrow, consumed
by the pain, and unable to understand how people were still smiling around me. Simply put, I was
lost…

Shortly after his death, another close friend of his passed

unexpectedly, and I attended the funeral out of a sense of
loyalty for my father, though it was very difficult. The min-
ister spoke eloquently of the man we had called friend for
many years. Then he made a statement that even through
my tears I knew would change my life. “When someone
dies, you can become bitter, or you can become better.”
Truth is, I have no idea what the minister said afterwards,
because I recognized myself in the bitter part of that sen-
tence. In that moment, I began to reflect upon the legacy
my father had left with me, one that included an inherent
love of life and family. And it suddenly occurred to me that
I had allowed the death of this amazing man to plant a seed
of bitterness in me. How disappointed with my daddy be if
he knew that I had chosen bitter over better?

Make no mistake: my father was not perfect, for he was

human. Kind and gentle, he was everything a father was
supposed to be. He did not take lightly his responsibilities toward his family, as provider, teacher,
mentor, example, protector and patriarch of our very large family. Hour after hour, in the scorch-
ing Georgia sun, he would tend to the soil, nurture the plants, and sit on the bucket at the end
of the row, water hose in hand, literally
watching his garden grow, providing fresh
fruits and vegetables for his family and for
so many others in the community. I daresay
his vegetable soup was famous in those parts
and there was hardly a Sunday to go by that
dozens of people didn’t stop by for Sunday
dinner, some invited, others just dropping in
“to see what Lonzo had cooking.”

Saturday nights meant singing and

playing the guitar with the family from
grandmother on down. He would sing
those songs of his childhood, even
change the words to include “Lori” so
I would know he was singing for me.
Sure not to exclude anyone, he would
go down the line until every little
name (brothers, sisters, cousins) was
used in his lyrics, eliciting a smile on
each face. An animated storyteller,
we’d laugh as Daddy told us funny
stories about fishing, hunting and
even turtle “grabbling”…

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 43
A Personal Note

An avid outdoorsman, I remember one particular

camping trip where he wrapped a snake around my
arm, almost sending my dear mother into cardiac ar-
rest. Just a little girl, I thought it was super cool—it was
just a little water moccasin. And besides, my father
was right there—nothing could harm me with Daddy
near, for he was my ultimate defender and protector.
I still smile when I think of my mother screaming his
name and his responding laughter booming across
the water as he took the snake away and placed it
back into the water.

For page after page, I could share with you my memories of him, each one of which would be
filled with childlike admiration and unwavering love, but I would like to close with this thought:
my father taught me to believe in God’s love.

It isn’t that he said to me, “Lori, God loves you with uncon-
ditional love,” but more that he demonstrated to me the way
in which fathers are supposed to love their children—with
a patient, steady love that remains constant and strong, no
matter what storm is passing. I never felt judgment from
him, even when I was wrong. I never had to feel ashamed
to him, because I knew he was able to look past the mo-
ment and still be proud of who I was. My father loved me
in spite of my failures, much the way my heavenly father
loves me. During the 32 years that I was blessed to have
him, this was the greatest gift my father gave me.

My earthly father did an incredible job of fathering.

When his life here was over, my heavenly father stepped
in. With His help, I was able to use the most painful time
of my life for inspiration to become better. As a result,
Woman 2 Woman was born. I know that my daddy is
proud of me. He always was. This magazine, and every
other one I create like it, is his legacy—his legacy of
love.

Thank you for allowing me to continue his legacy. God

Bless each and every one of you.

Your friend,
Lori Samples Duncan
ld@woman2woman.sc (Look us up on Facebook!)

Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all
your soul and with all your strength. These command-
ments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts.
Impress them on your children. Talk about them when
you sit at home and when you walk along the road,
when you lie down and when you get up.
—Deuteronomy 6:5-7

44 Celebrating, Motivating and Educating Real Women

www.gwinnettwoman.sc 45
Specialized care can mean
quicker recoveries.

In addition to having dedicated pediatric specialists and

equipment designed specifically for kids, Children’s
offers streamlined care. For instance, if your child had
a CAT scan that needed further evaluation, we can call a
pediatric specialist directly, which could save you days,
possibly weeks, of stress and uncertainty. So the next time
your doctor recommends a specialist, ask to see a pediatric
specialist. For more information, visit us at www.choa.org

©2009 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Some physicians and affiliated
healthcare professionals who perform services at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta are independent
providers and are not our employees.
Celebrating, Motivating, Educating, and Inspiring Real Women

www.gwinnettwoman.sc
Call To Advertise With Us woman2woman@woman2woman.sc
(803) 808-0866 P.O. Box 85282 | Lexington, SC 29073
Look us up on Facebook!

“We know what an exceptional business you are,

let us help you get that message to Gwinnett women”