January/February 2023

Caring for Kids

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta announces Arthur M. Blank Hospital, a new state-of-the-art hospital to open in Brookhaven in 2024. 26

Area Fitness Listings

Our list of area gyms spans traditional gyms, group classes, boot camps, yoga and Pilates and more to help you find a place that fits your needs.

Staying Fit Over 40

Dacula native Betsy Weiss, mom of two active boys, shares her fitness journey and what inspires her to stay fit.

Tips from the Pros

Local industry experts share health and fitness tips for the new year.

Berry Healthy

Legacy Sports Complex

New 15,000-square-foot facility for sports and fitness training opens in Suwanee.

Smoothies

Kick-start your new year goals with three delicious and healthy smoothies from Suwanee’s Planet Smoothie.

Dates

for

Fitness

Lovers

Check out seven active date ideas to help you get your sweat on with your sweetie!

Six upcoming 5Ks and half marathons to mark on your calendar for a healthy and active new year.

Good for the Soul

Four alternative new year goals that will help improve your overall well-being.

Healthy Cells

Suwanee’s The DRIPBaR offers IV drips and shots that may aid with energy, immunity, and recovery.

Jonny Venters and Dustin Chovanic, owners Legacy Sports Complex

PHOTO BY PAUL PERDUE

Co.

PHOTO BY KARL LAMB

A Healthy New Year!

OW THAT the holidays are behind us, it’s time to start fresh. I don’t know about all of you, but the end of 2022 really did a number on me. I overbooked, overextended, and overcommitted. I feel as though one night I tucked my little toddler into bed and the next morning she woke up a 7 year old with a basketball schedule and social calendar that rivals most adults I know. Add a 4-yearold brother with his own busy schedule and you’ve got one tired mama. But, I know most of you can relate, so let’s take a moment to acknowledge all the superhero parents in our community. We’ve got this!

As we enter 2023, I’m committing to making a change. For me, that means sometimes saying no in order to save my sanity. That means planning ahead and being prepared – not flying by the seat of my pants. And it also means taking better care of myself by prioritizing sleep, making better food choices and, of course, getting more exercise. This year, I don’t want to put myself last. After all, if I take good care of myself, I’ll be better able to be there for my family.

For our 2023 Fitness Issue, we wanted to explore health and wellness from all angles. We wanted to find ways to care for our physical fitness, nutrition and mental health, as well as foster healthy relationships (check out our fun fit date ideas on p. 34). For ways to to focus on your physical fitness, turn to our Fitness Guide on p. 26, where you’ll find a list of area gyms in our community spanning traditional gyms, group classes, boot camps, yoga and Pilates and more. We also spoke with Betsy Weiss (p. 30), a local mom

of two active boys who has a great fitness success story that we hope will inspire you on your own health journey. For your mental health, we highlighted four nontraditional new year goals on p. 40 that don’t focus on physical fitness, but instead offer ways to help improve your overall well-being.

On p. 32, Planet Smoothie suggests three delicious and healthy smoothies that will help kick-start your new year goals!

We also met up with the team behind Legacy Sports Complex , a new state-of-the-art facility that focuses on sports and fitness training that opened in Suwanee this past December. Owners Dustin and Amber Chovanic and Jonny and Viviana Venters wanted to create a place here in our community that offers high-quality training and amenities for competitive athletes. At the same time, they wanted families to feel comfortable hanging out or getting in a workout of their own. Learn more about the complex on p. 20, and be sure to stop by their grand opening on January 21, where professional athletes will be on-site signing autographs. There will also be cash prize contests, food trucks, a DJ and more!

We’re also excited to introduce our readers to Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s new hospital, Arthur M. Blank Hospital , on p. 12. This new state-of-the-art hospital offers a number of innovative advances in pediatric healthcare. The planning that went into the $1.5 billion project is tremendous and will make a huge impact for families in our community. Plus, it’s located in nearby Brookhaven, which makes it Children’s most accessible hospital for Gwinnett families.

Congratulations are in order for our friends at Suwanee Beer Fest ! The popular local festival was voted the No. 1 Beer Festival in the country in USA Today’s 2022 Best Beer Festival contest. The highly anticipated St. Patrick’s Day weekend event returns to Town Center Park on March 18 with samples of more than 350 craft beers from over 100 breweries along with festival games, food trucks, entertainment and more! Learn more on p. 60, then mark your calendar because tickets officially go on sale on January 13 at noon.

It’s our hope that this Fitness Issue will help encourage you to put yourself first this year. As a community, we do such a great job of taking care of each other that sometimes we forget to put that same energy into ourselves. And that’s not a bad thing, we just want to make sure our tanks are full so we can be at our best for the people we love. On that note, we hope your new year is happy, healthy and full of fun adventures!

CARTER, MANAGING EDITOR Alicia@suwanee magazine.com

a note from our managing editor

ALICIA

COVER: Legacy Sports Complex Owners Dustin & Amber Chovanic and Viviana & Jonny Venters photographed on December 7th by Paul Perdue.

Local mom Betsy Weiss competing in a recent Dirty Spokes trail run. Read her inspiring story on page 30.

PHOTO BY RICK RANTAMAKI

ANGELA VEUGELER

President / Editor-in-Chief angela@suwaneemagazine.com

RANDALL VEUGELER Vice President and Publisher

ALICIA CARTER Managing Editor

AMY KIMBALL-NIEPMANN Ad Manager ads@suwaneemagazine.com

JULIE PERDUE Executive Sales and Business Development julie@suwaneemagazine.com

Published by VEUGELER DESIGN GROUP 554 W. Main Street, Suite 200 Buford, GA 30518 SuwaneeMagazine.com

For SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES or BACK ISSUE ORDERS, call 678-482-2270.

For ADVERTISING INQUIRIES, call 678-482-2270, or email info@suwaneemagazine.com.

Suwanee Magazine is published bi-monthly by Veugeler Design Group. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2023 Veugeler Design Group. The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Alicia Carter at Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com.

BACON US HUNGRY!

BEST

WITH A presentation as tempting as its taste, the savory bacon flight appetizer at unWine’d and Tap perfect pairing with the beverage of your choice. A thick-cut slab of bacon, homemade chicharrones, and four dipping sauces come together to create a uniquely delicious treat for the tastebuds. 991 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, 470-326-5004, unwinedandtap.com

A Fashion Make(r) Over

BEST NEW BOUTIQUE

BEST TO-GO LUNCH

SUWANEE'S NEWEST boutique, MAKE[R], aims to bridge the gap between shopping locally and getting creative. The shop is more than just a shop, it offers handmade goods local to Georgia, a zero-waste refillery, communitytaught workshops and weekend popups. During our last visit, we scooped up some handmade soap from Sincerely, Roots, a clean skincare company whose soaps are made with natural and organic ingredients. 340 Town Center Ave., Suwanee, themaker.community

- Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

Healthy Choices

ONE OF Suwanee’s newest restaurants, Flaming Iron Asian Grill offers fresh, healthy and customizable meals for busy people. We love the customizable bowls. Simply pick your protein, choose your base (rice or salad), add your favorite toppings and then finish off with a tasty sauce. I’m partial to the balsamic shrimp salad, which includes grilled shrimp, red radish, edamame, cucumber, apple, purple cabbage, sweet corn, sesame seeds, croutons and balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

1000 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee, flaming-iron.com

Snapshots of the food, shops, events and more we’re loving around town.

- Tiffany Belflower, Event Director

- Tiffany Belflower, Event Director

APPETIZER

INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

BY: Bill and Cindi Porter, AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS

Q: IS A DIVIDED CONGRESS GOOD OR BAD FOR MY PORTFOLIO NOW THAT THE MIDTERM ELECTIONS ARE OVER?

History would indicate that it is good news. During the past 80-year stretch of the stock market, which includes each of the 20 years that preceded a midterm election, the market experienced a negative drawdown. This year was no exception. However, there is an equally consistent history for positive results in each of the 20 years which followed those midterm elections. We are just beginning to enter one of those post midterm years now. The average rate of return for the S&P 500 for those post-midterm 20 years has been 12.30%.1

“It is no exaggeration to say that midterm elections are one of the best historic buy signals for equities we have,” wrote Jim Reid, a market strategist for Deutsche Bank in an article for The New York Times titled "Why Wall Street Loves Gridlock in Washington. "1 Seemingly in agreement, Warren Buffet just purchased 9 billion of stocks in the past few months.2

In addition, in the post midterm years which have resulted in a divided Congress (like now) the stock market has performed even better. In those years with a divided Congress, the S&P 500 has averaged 17.50%1 As Fortune Magazine recently reported, “Stocks historically perform better under a divided Congress.”3

-

George Smith, LPL Financial portfolio strategist echoed those sentiments, “Markets don’t react well to uncertainty so political gridlock is normally a favorable outcome as new measures from the administration are thwarted by the opposing party.”4

Historical returns are not a guarantee of the future. However, while the world is ever-changing, this market pattern has been uninterrupted and consistent for the past 80 years. You may want to discuss this with your trusted advisor. ■

- Written by Bill Porter

1 https://www.nytimes.com/2022/11/08/business/wall-street-midterm-elections-gridlock-washington.html

2 https://www.wsj.com/articles/berkshire-hathaway-bought-9-billion-in-stock-in-third-quarter-11668445013

3 https://fortune.com/2020/11/04/stock-market-2020-election-results-divided-congress-house-senatedemocrats-republicans-us-economy/

4 https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2022/11/06/stock-market-outlook-midtermelection/10606588002/

Markets don’t react well to uncertainty so political gridlock is normally a favorable outcome as new measures from the administration are thwarted by the opposing party. ”

GEORGE SMITH, LPL FINANCIAL PORTFOLIO STRATEGIST

Arthur M. Blank Hospital will open in Brookhaven in 2024, giving Gwinnett residents more accessibility to exceptional pediatric healthcare.

Caring for Kids

Children's Healthcare of Atlanta announces Arthur M. Blank Hospital, a new state-of-the-art hospital to open in Brookhaven in 2024.

By Alicia Carter / Renderings Courtesy Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta

IN OCTOBER 2020, Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta announced plans for a new state-of-the-art hospital located at the northeastern corner of North Druid Hills and I-85 in Brookhaven. The hospital is the largest healthcare project in Georgia history, and will provide greater access to specialized pediatric healthcare for children and their families. The new hospital, which is slated to open in 2024 and will replace Children’s Egleston Hospital, has been named Arthur M. Blank Hospital following a generous $200 million donation from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. The donation is the largest in Children’s history and the single largest naming gift to a freestanding pediatric hospital.

⊲ Noted Atlanta philanthropist Arthur M. Blank is known to many as the co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the Atlanta Falcons, Atlanta United, Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and more. Many may not know, however, that Blank is one of Children's biggest supporters, and has previously donated nearly $10 million to the pediatric healthcare organization in addition to being actively involved with patients in various activities and fundraisers since 2001.

In a press release announcing Arthur M. Blank Hospital, Blank stated: “It’s a great honor for me and my family to be connected to Children’s, and a great honor for us to be connected to a system that has dealt with research, illness and disease for the most precious commodities that we have in the world, our children. Children’s is one of the greatest pediatric hospitals in the United States. The work they are doing right here in our backyard will make a difference forever, and that’s very meaningful to me, my family and our associates.”

The 1.5 million-square-foot hospital, spanning more than 70 acres, will include one tower with two wings and will focus on cardiac, hematology, oncology, and transplant services, as well as house additional operating rooms, specialty beds, and diagnostic equipment to meet patient needs. In short, it is a huge leap forward that will enable Children’s to continue its mission to help children overcome medical challenges and get back to what’s most important: being a kid.

A family-first approach

⊲ According to Children’s, the transformative $1.5 billion project combines “inviting and innovative, healing and high tech,” and is designed specifically with kids and their families in mind. The hospital’s impressive list of features includes more than 400 patient beds, allowing Children’s to treat more kids as the region grows. The hospital’s layout also takes advantage of the researchproven healing effects of nature with 20 acres of greenspace offering exposure to nature and miles of walking trails. In addition, more than 75 percent of patient rooms will have therapeutic views of the garden. Groundbreaking innovations include 3D printing capabilities to design lifesaving treatment options, a Special Care Unit for the treatment of patients with highly infectious diseases, three cardiovascular operating rooms, and an inpatient dialysis unit.

As monumental as these advancements are, the most thoughtful and encouraging element of Arthur

M. Blank Hospital is that it was truly designed with children and their families at the forefront. The new hospital will include more family-friendly spaces, including larger, private rooms so parents can comfortably stay with their children. Extra thought was put into patient and family amenities throughout the hospital, including kitchenettes, child life activity rooms, laundry facilities on every floor, dedicated sleeping rooms, and a business center to help normalize a family’s routine as much as possible during their stay. The hospital’s planned playgrounds, playrooms, libraries, and school-support spaces will allow for kids to feel like kids.

As the parent of a child with complex medical needs, I know firsthand how important it is to have access to a prestigious hospital like Children’s. At the same time, I’ve also experienced the loneliness and stress that an extended stay at a hospital brings. I’ve been the mother who has spent weeks in a hospital room sleeping on a recliner to a symphony of beeps and aroundthe-clock vital checks. I’ve snuggled up next to my son with a laptop in hand, trying to sneak in some work before rounds. I’ve purchased many meals from the cafeteria and walked the halls among the other parents, patients and families. Through it all, the team at Children’s has always been exceptional. This new hospital is a testament to their dedication to not only the health and wellbeing of the children they serve, but also their families, who will remain by their child’s side throughout their stay.

In fact, the team at Children’s went above and beyond to anticipate patient needs by constructing a mock hospital to help plan their design. Utilizing an empty, 114,000-square-foot

The 1.5 millionsquare-foot hospital, spanning more than 70 acres, will include one tower with two wings and will focus on cardiac, hematology, oncology, and transplant services.

WHERE YOU TAKE THEM MATTERS

No matter how small or tall, Children’s is here.

Whether your child is learning to walk or learning to drive, their growing body needs special care. Children’s has unparalleled expertise because we only treat kids and teens. From the simple to the complex, injuries and illnesses that a ect kids and teens should be treated by a pediatric specialist, not an adult provider. No matter their age, take your child to the specialists at Children’s.

Visit choa.org to learn more.

©2021 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

warehouse, Children’s built one of the largest, full-scale hospital mock-ups in the country — made entirely out of cardboard. Once the mockup hospital was constructed, the team ran a series of tests and simulations with more than 400 of their operational leaders, clinicians and, perhaps most importantly, patient families to help inform the design of Arthur M. Blank Hospital. No detail was too small or too large

to consider, from the distance between operating rooms and the Emergency Department to smaller details like the exact contents of cabinets in a patient room. The cardboard hospital enabled the team to test and then retest every inch, ensuring that no stone was left unturned to the benefit of patients and their families.

A bright future

⊲ Georgia is fortunate to be

Arthur M. Blank Hospital was designed to take advantage of the healing effects of nature. There are 20 acres of greenspace and more than 75 percent of rooms will have views of the garden.

home to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, one of the greatest pediatric hospitals in the country. The announcement of Arthur M. Blank Hospital is a promise to Georgia families that Children’s will continue to provide the best, most advanced pediatric care possible for generations to come. While we all hope to never need these services for our children, knowing that we have exceptional and accessible pediatric healthcare so close to home helps us all rest a little easier. ■

For more information about Arthur M. Blank Hospital, visit CHOA.org/give.

FROM CYCLING AND GROUP WORKOUT CLASSES TO PILATES AND RUNNING, THERE ARE A NUMBER OF WAYS IN GWINNETT TO KICK-START YOUR HEALTH — IT’S ALL ABOUT FINDING WHAT WORKS FOR YOU.

CREATING A LEGACY

NEW

STORY BY ANGELA VEUGELER / PHOTOS BY PAUL PERDUE

LEGACY SPORTS COMPLEX opened its doors in December 2022 with the goal of offering a five-star sports and fitness experience to area families.

Owners Dustin and Amber Chovanic and Jonny and Viviana Venters share the same vision for Legacy: to create a place in Suwanee that offers highquality training and amenities for competitive athletes, while also being a fit for younger kids and a place where the whole family feels at home working out or hanging out. Both the Chovanic and Venters families have children and live in the Suwanee area. Dustin and Jonny know what it feels like to compete at the highest level — Dustin as a professional MMA and Muay Thai fighter, National Karate Champion and kickboxer, and Jonny as an MLB player for the Atlanta Braves, Tampa Bay Rays, and Washington Nationals.

Legacy Sports Complex offers specialized training for local athletes in baseball, softball, soccer, football, wrestling and lacrosse.

Legacy Sports Complex owners Jonny and Viviana Venters and Amber and Dustin Chovanic

We want to create a championship culture here... to give all our athletes the ability to have the experiences of college and pro athletes right here in Suwanee.”

- Dustin Chovanic, Owner Legacy Sports Complex

The Chovanics also own and operate Legacy MMA, a martial arts after-school and summer camp program with five locations in the area. Prior to starting Legacy, Dustin was a partner in Georgia Fitness and opened the Pro Center inside the facility, where high school athletes from several Gwinnett County schools trained. Years later, he wanted to recreate what they had in the Pro Center but take it to the next level. And, Suwanee was the place he wanted to do it.

“I grew up on a karate floor and in a gym,” Dustin says. “I got into training and opened gyms around the country which led me here. Atlanta was a really big nest for fighting. I’d come up here to train with some of the top fighters in the area. I fell in love with the Suwanee/Buford/ Sugar Hill area. I’ve never felt at home anywhere before this community. Suwanee is everything to me. I want these kids to be able to come in and have mentorship that helps them succeed in life.”

Jonny grew up in Florida loving sports and spent most of his time in the gym and on the field. “I was fortunate enough to play professional baseball for 15 or 16 years,” he says. “We moved to Georgia my rookie year with the Braves. We fell in love with Georgia and the Suwanee area; it’s such an awesome place.”

- Dustin Chovanic, Owner Legacy Sports Complex

Both families saw the need for a facility like Legacy in the Suwanee area. “The main thing for us was the location,” Viviana says. “We and other families have been driving kids everywhere for training — there was nowhere in our backyard like this. Now there is somewhere for families to go in Suwanee.”

“We wanted to create a facility with the integrity of where we live,” Dustin says. “We wanted to match the culture and intensity. We don’t live in a place that lacks championships. That’s why the quality here is second to none. We want to create a championship culture here. My passion is really the kids. I wanted this facility built with the younger kids in mind, not just the middle or high schoolers. We want to give all our athletes the ability to have the experiences of college and pro athletes right here in Suwanee.”

Local high school athletes work on strength training with a Legacy trainer.

Specialized Sports Training

⊲ Legacy offers group training, private training, an adult boot camp, batting cages, golf simulators, sports medicine and physical therapy. Specialized training is available for baseball, softball, soccer, football, wrestling and lacrosse, with plans to add additional sports such as basketball. They have memberships for individuals, families, and teams and memberships are customizable depending on a client’s needs. The regular memberships include strength training and speed and agility classes as well as some specialized sports training.

Specialized classes at Legacy for football include wide receiver training.

I want these kids to be able to come in and have mentorship that helps them succeed in life.”

“We have everything from individual training and team training to travel ball teams, which is a mixture of athletes from different areas,” Dustin says. “For baseball, for example, some kids are coming in for individual training and some come in with their team. They may want to use the batting cages or the turf because it’s raining outside. A particular kid might want to work on hitting and another work on pitching. Some want speed and agility; some just want strength. We have built programs that allow us to work at different levels. Whether your kid is just learning baseball, playing travel ball, getting ready to play at the collegiate level, or is a professional player and wants some time to train, we want to service what your needs are and offer different levels of the sport you are looking for.”

Several local teams already use the facility to train. “It’s a huge thing for coaches in the area if they have a kid and something is bothering them that they know they can send them here and get good care and training, get stronger, get physical therapy and work at whatever sport they are playing,” Jonny says. “I think it’s such an invaluable thing to have it all in one place. That’s why I drove an hour to train because some days something would bother me and I would go get it treated and also get my workout. Having it here in Suwanee is invaluable to local athletes. Kids can work with trainers on how to get back to the sport.”

Speed and agility classes help athletes of all ages increase performance by focusing on improving acceleration, flexibility, balance and agility.

Legacy offers batting cages as well as specialized training in hitting and pitching.

Amenities & Recovery

⊲ According to Amber, the complex was “designed by family for family.” Dustin continues, “We want to make it comfortable for the moms and families and also offer a five-star experience. The facility is temperature controlled with a parent viewing area upstairs. Our equipment is second to none; it is the highestgrade equipment. We wanted to make sure the athletes were safe and protected with what they were training on, so we installed a professional caliber beadless turf. We have a full arena netting system so it will stop a baseball, golf ball or football. Outside we have the basketball courts, the sand pits, and the pull-up stations.”

Knowing that injuries and therapies are a part of sports, Legacy also has a physical therapist on-site and offers cryo chambers as well as hyperbaric chambers, and is working to have a full professional lab.

Legacy Sports Complex invites the public to come check out the facility for the grand opening on January 21. Professional athletes will be on-site signing autographs, there will be three $10,000 cash prize contests, food trucks, a DJ and more.

“We feel so fortunate to be here and to be part of this,” Jonny says. “When we walked in the doors and saw this place and heard Dustin explain his vision, we were blown away. When you hear Dustin talk, he talks about

the kids and the community and those are things that are important to us. We want to be here spending time with the kids and being part of this community, and we are excited to see where it goes from here.” ■

⊲ Legacy Sports Complex is located at 4305 Brogdon Exchange in Suwanee. For more information call 678-541-5054

LegacySportComplex.com.

Athletes bring it in for a team huddle after a speed and agility class.

AREA FITNESS LISTINGS

WHERE TO GET FIT IN 2023

FOR THIS year’s Fitness Guide, we compiled a list of area gyms spanning traditional gyms, group classes, boot camps, yoga and Pilates and more. We have so many options to get fit right here in our community, it’s just a matter of finding a place that fits your needs. Whether you prefer to lift weights on your own or enjoy the camaraderie of a group class, there is a local gym for you!

STAFF PICK: Georgia Fitness Sugar Hill

Locally owned and operated, Georgia Fitness is focused on modernized solutions with the community in mind. 245 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 100 Sugar Hill, GA 30518, 678-765-8999 georgiafitnessgyms.com/sugarhillga

ATL Fitness 24/7 Buford Fitness Center 4450 Nelson Brogdon Blvd, Sugar Hill, GA 30518 678-541-5011 atlfitness247buford.com

Anytime Fitness 302 Satellite Blvd Suwanee, GA 30024 770-400-0989 anytimefitness.com

Bodyplex Fitness 3808 Braselton Hwy Buford, GA 30518 770-749-7539 bodyplex.com

Buford Family Fitness 2685 Buford Hwy, Buford GA 30518 770-945-6955 bufordfamilyfitness.com

City Park Gym 625 E Shadburn Ave Buford, GA 30518 770-945-6761 cityofbuford.com/park

E Center @ Sugar Hill 5019 Broad St NE Sugar Hill, GA 30518 770-831-7413 ecenteratsugarhill.com

Fitness 1440 4949 Lanier Islands Pkwy Buford, GA 30518 770-945-1004 fitness1440.com/buford

LA Fitness 6025 Cumming Hwy NE Sugar Hill, GA 30518 470-202-9109 / 3420 Buford Dr NE, Buford, GA 30519 678-714-5075 lafitness.com

Life Time Johns Creek 11555 Johns Creek Pkwy Johns Creek, GA 30097 770-495-7800 lifetime.life

Physique Refinements

Personal Training Studio 425 Buford Hwy Suite 206, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-765-2413 physiquerefinements.com

Planet Fitness 1404 LawrencevilleSuwanee Rd Lawrenceville, GA 30043 678-878-3730 planetfitness.com

Workout Anytime Suwanee

2133 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd, Suite 1 Suwanee, GA 30024 678-323-1595 workoutanytime.com/ suwanee

GROUP CLASSES

YouFit Gyms

2855 LawrencevilleSuwanee Rd, Suite 500 Suwanee, GA 30024 678-745-3334 youfit.com

Orangetheory Fitness

5019 W. Broad St NE, Suite 107/109, Sugar Hill, GA 30518 678-786-4120 orangetheory.com

Peak Strength and Fitness Peak offers a collection of private and group training for fitness and athletics, competitions, social outings and lifelong friendships. 5007 B U Bowman Dr, Buford, GA 30518, 678-315-4819 peakstrengthand fitness.com

Redline Athletics

1839 Buford Hwy NE Suite 200 Buford GA 30518 Redlineathletics.com

Stage 3 Fitness

2456 Main St Duluth, GA 30097 678-430-8054 stage3fitness.com

Straight Blast Gym

1605 Buford Hwy N.E. Suite N, Buford, GA 30518 770-277-8741 sbgatlanta.com/locations/ sbg-buford

Turnedup Fitness

1620 Buford Hwy NE Buford, GA 30518 706-765-3429 turnedupfitness.io

STAFF PICK: Legacy Sports Complex

This brand-new 15,000-sq.-ft. facility is temperature controlled and offers state of the art training equipment, beadless turf, five batting cages, arena netting, mats, and parent viewing area. Offering both individual and full team training and serving ages five through adults. Legacy offers group speed and agility and strength training as well as specialty training in baseball, softball, golf, football, wrestling and lacrosse, with plans to add basketball in the near future. 4305 Brogdon Exchange, Suwanee, GA 30024, 678-541-505, legacysportcomplex.com

30 Minute HIT

3105 Peachtree Pkwy, Suite 104, Suwanee, GA 30024 678-771-5224 30minutehit.com

Amrack Fitness

4296 Old Suwanee Rd #12 Buford, GA 30518 678-835-8337 amrackfitness.com

Aspire Personal Training for Women

1120 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 110, Suwanee GA 30024 678-926-3897 aspireptforwomen.com

Buford Elite Sports Training

4729 Nelson Brogdon Blvd NE, Sugar Hill, GA 30518 770-318-0944 Bufordelitesports training.com

FAST Training & Athlete Development

105 Satellite Blvd, Suwanee GA 30024 404-386-1017 fasttad.com

Fit Frenzy Studio

922 Gainesville Hwy Buford, GA 30518 678-736-0523 fitfrenzystudio.com

Impact Performance

372 Swanson Dr Lawrenceville, GA 30043 404-630-1876 impactperformancegym.com

Muscle Thru Unlimited

3280 Hamilton Mill Rd #306, Buford, GA 30519 470-939-4313 msclthru.com

KICKBOXING

STAFF PICK:

9Round

9Round offers a 30-minute whole body HIIT workout based on kickboxing. 9Round works with all fitness and skill levels, and most members start without any kickboxing experience. The 9Round workout changes every day, a trainer is always included, and there are no class times! A new round starts every 3 minutes, so you can work out on your schedule. Sign up for your free first workout and start kickboxing today! 310 Town Center Ave, Suite A1, Suwanee, GA 30024, 678-288-4877 9round.com

Bangkok Boxing Fitness

4470 Satellite Blvd Duluth, GA, 30096 470-448-3148 bangkokboxingfitness.com

Shape Up Kickboxing

7380 Spout Springs Rd Flowery Branch, GA 30542 770-967-1700 shapeupkickboxing.com

BOOTCAMPS

STAFF PICK: Camp Gladiator

Tired of the typical boring fitness routine or need help with nutritional guidance? Camp Gladiator makes working out the best hour of your day and provides easyto-follow meal plans that work. Brian and McKenzie Lamb host outdoor and online group workouts for all ages and all fitness levels as well as nutrition coaching. Each workout is designed to be a fun, engaging, and full-body challenge that differs each day. All you need is a bottle of water and a positive attitude, and they’ll help you hit your goals! Camp Gladiator currently offers morning and evening workouts at Suwanee Town Center Park five days a week in addition to other locations around Gwinnett and the greater Atlanta metro area. 330 Town Center Ave, Suwanee, GA 30024, 682-554-2654, campgladiator.com

Burn Boot Camp Suwanee 3255 LawrencevilleSuwanee Rd Suwanee, GA 30024 678-730-0032 burnbootcamp.com

Fit Forward Bootcamp 5700 Cumming Hwy NE, Sugar Hill, GA 30518, 678-861-1880 fitforwardbootcamp.com

yoga/pilates

STAFF PICK: ToLife! Yoga and Pilates

ToLife! Yoga and Pilates is a boutique fitness studio opened in 2017 by motherdaughter team Marilyn Hildebrandt and Kari Dees in downtown Buford’s Tannery Row. ToLife! offers intimate and specialized classes in yoga, Pilates, kettlebells and more that focus on proper technique and overall wellness. 554 W. Main St Building B, Suite 150, Buford GA 30518, 470-279-4183 ToLifeYogaandPilates.com

Bodies In Motion Yoga

1630 Buford Hwy NE, Suite 5, Buford GA 30518, 770-712-0147 mindbodyonline.com

Alkaline Wellness Center

Performance Power Yoga

150 E. Crogan St, Lawrenceville GA 30046 678-861-4374 performance poweryoga.com

Urban Pilates

686 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Suite 135 Suwanee, GA 30024 678-335-5566 alkalinewellness.com

CROSSFIT

STAFF PICK: CrossFit

AXAT Axiom Athletics

Filled with top-notch equipment needed for any CrossFit-style workout, with plenty of space for larger groups. 50 Satellite Blvd NW, Suite F, Suwanee GA 30024, 770-880-5637 axiomathletics.com

4325 Suwanee Dam Rd, Suite 600 Suwanee, GA 30024 770-235-1917 facebook.com/urbanpilatesstudio No

CrossFit

4260 Creek Park Dr Suite AB, Suwanee GA 30024 770-783-0753 noexcusescrossfit.com

South Hall CrossFit

5370 Lanier Islands Pkwy, Suite 9 Buford, GA 30518 678-932-1030 southhallcrossfit.com

STAYING FIT OVER 40

Dacula resident Betsy Weiss, age 49 and mom of two active boys, shares her fitness journey and what keeps her motivated.

INTERVIEW BY ANGELA VEUGELER

Tell us a little bit about your fitness journey.

Almost six years ago I decided I wanted to change. I wanted to get healthier and feel better. I was about to turn 44 and I wanted to get back to a healthier and more active lifestyle. I’ve always been active and would have considered myself a healthy person. Two babies later, and with a busy work schedule, I had gained a lot more weight and been too inactive for where I should be. So, I decided to make some changes. I started off slow. I started with spinning. Being a

Physician Assistant in women's health,

I always tell my patients it’s a circle. You exercise and you feel better. And when you feel better, you want to do better. You want to eat better, you want to exercise and have more energy. Working in the medical field, I knew I would have to certainly cut my calories and I cut a lot of calories. It’s never easy. Within nine months I lost the majority of my weight, about 60 pounds. Over the rest of the year, I lost a total of 80 pounds.

How do you fit in workouts and what does a typical week look

like as far as working out? I have a full-time job and two young children. I am up every day by 4:15 a.m. to go put in two hours at the gym. I believe (for me) cardio and weight training are equally important. I warm up with light cardio, and either an hour spin or some combination of rowing, biking or running, and then do an hour of weight training.

I do at least one trail race a month and an endurance workout each weekend. I don’t advocate this to everyone, but I rarely take a day off. Not saying that’s a good thing but it’s what I do. Everyone has to find what

Betsy Weiss stays fit with a mixture of weight training, cardio and participating in at least one trail race a month.

works for them. It might be four days a week or two days.

Isn’t it incredibly hard to get up that early every day?

always set

goals

fitness

Spartan Race.

Some mornings I don’t want to get up. Then I think, if you don’t get up today, it will be harder to get up tomorrow. There are going to be hard days, but those hard days I think to myself, “If I get through this, all it does is make me stronger.” The hard days are what make you better.

What do you do to stay motivated?

Initially my motivation was sort of selfish. I wanted to be better, to be healthier. I wanted to look better and feel more confident. When you feel that way you want to continue to be the person you’ve created. I like the way I feel and I like the way I look. I love working out, running and biking. It also helps me keep my sanity with a super busy life. It gives me my “me time” and helps me get ready for my day.

Also, I truly believe and hope that my kids see how hard I work in life to create change and better myself. That it inspires and instills in them to work hard and know they have the power to make change. I like to set goals, so I keep setting goals for myself. At first it was get back into running, do my first race. The goals eventually got bigger and bigger. I was going to Orange Theory 5-6 days a week. I got back into running, added the races. I felt really good about myself. As women, we want to do what makes us feel better, what gives us more confidence. A half marathon was my first big race. Then I started getting into trail running which I really love. Next was the sprint triathlon at Lake Lanier. Now I’ve done two of them and made big improvements. In total I’ve done four half marathons, two triathlons and over one hundred road and trail races plus my first

I always set 3-4 goals from a fitness perspective every year, it helps me stay focused .

You have had some injuries and setbacks in your journey to stay fit. How do you handle those?

I tore my hamstring a couple of years ago. I was in pain and knew I had to do something different. I took time off from running but really got into biking. Biking is a fabulous way to get in shape without putting a lot of stress on your body. I also had a torn ACL 30 years ago and was always fine until I tore my meniscus in April 2022. When that happened my running really suffered because I was having some pain in the knee and my stability was pretty much gone. I decided to have my ACL repaired this past November. I was scared. I knew I needed to accept I was going to make some changes. I found that it’s not focusing on what I can’t do, it’s focusing on what I can do. I can lift upper body weights, do core strengthening, an AssaultBike (also called an AirBike, you can work out your legs but also get a really good arm workout and cardio). It sucks and it’s hard, but I get some cardio in every day. I’ve had to get creative.

I have gotten through four weeks, it will be at three to four months before I can jog and bike.

What accomplishment are you most proud of as far as health and fitness? Competing in the Spartan Race was one of my biggest accomplishments.

Do you have any advice for readers looking to get fit and make some lifestyle changes? Just get moving.

I don’t care if it’s 10 minutes a day today, and 12 minutes tomorrow, just keep building. Start with something

you like to do. If you like to walk, walk. If you like to dance, do a Zumba class. As far as diet, I believe in moderation. If you deprive yourself and it’s too hard to keep up with, you won’t keep up with it. Life is about sustaining. Know what your triggers are. If you know you are going to have a super busy day and come home exhausted, plan out what you are going to eat so you don’t eat the bad things.

Health and fitness aren’t accidental, it takes work and planning. You have to really watch your simple carbs, focus on your lean protein, and more vegetables. Especially for women as we get older, we have to watch what we are eating and drinking. Alcohol can be one of the biggest problems as far as losing weight. You have to watch your portion sizes.

Read more of Betsy's story online at suwaneemagazine.com

I

3-4

from a

perspective every year, it helps me stay focused.”

Betsy competing in her first Spartan Race.

TIPS FROM THE PROS:

Kari Dees

CO-OWNER

TOLIFE! YOGA AND PILATES

Find a form of exercise that you enjoy doing! Exercising shouldn't be painful, and it doesn't have to feel like a chore. That old saying "no pain, no gain" is the worst mindset for longevity. Find something that makes you feel good physically and mentally, and you will be much more likely to stick with it! Also, unpopular opinion...but motivation is not the most important factor to getting, and staying, fit. Yes, you need motivation to start, but after that what keeps you going is habit. Healthy choices become healthy habits and you won't feel the need to "find the motivation" anymore. tolifeyogaandpilates.com

Justin Taylor

COACH AND OWNER, IMPACT PERFORMANCE GYM

The key to staying fit into the new year is a strong, encouraging community. Working out as a community helps you stay motivated with accountability and purpose, which can lead to greater results. People tend to stay on track when they are enjoying the workouts and building camaraderie with the people they work out with. Three quick tips to reach your goals: 1) Plan your day the night before which includes your meal plan and workout schedule. 2) Read a quote or affirmation every day that will help fuel your drive towards your goal. 3) Enjoy the process! Make sure you find ways to love what you do. impactperformancegym.com

Stephanie Wolfe

MCHC, NBC-HWC MASTER COACH/NATIONAL BOARD-CERTIFIED HEALTH & WELLNESS COACH, OWNER, THE WHOLE FOOD HEALTH COACH

You may recognize the S.M.A.R.T. acronym known around the world representing Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Relevant, and Time-bound goal setting. I added the E and the R for myself long ago to stand for Excited and Rewarding, because I find that we don’t stick with anything very long if it’s boring and where there is no return for our efforts. As with any journey, first find the spot that declares, “You are here.” Start from there to plan your route towards where you want to go. Every successful journey begins with a single step. After that it is just putting one foot in front of the other until you reach your intended destination. Knowing where you are going will help you know when you arrive!

wholefoodhealthcoach.com

BERRY HEALTHY SMOOTHIES

Kick-start your new year goals with these

three

delicious and healthy smoothies from Suwanee’s Planet Smoothie

For more than a decade, Planet Smoothie in Suwanee Town Center has been mixing up delicious and satisfying smoothies for locals looking for a healthier option for food on the go. Made with f resh fruits and greens, smoothies are a great way to help you meet your new year goals since they offer a lower calorie, lower sugar, and higher protein portable snack or meal replacement option. We recently asked owners Karen Hendrix and Kristin Scott to share three smoothies to help kick-start a healthy new year.

PB Blues

Not only is peanut butter a filling and protein-packed food, it also contains nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, iron, selenium and vitamin B6. Planet Smoothie’s PB Blues combines peanut butter with blueberries, which pack a health punch of their own with a healthy dose of fiber, vitamin K and manganese. One cup of blueberries provides 24 percent of the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C.

20 OZ: 43 grams of protein 430 calories

Fiji Island Breeze

The Fiji Island Breeze is like summer in a cup and transports us to the sand and waves during these cold winter months. This tasty smoothie is filled with antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals to keep your body nourished. Plus, the coconut water and pineapple will help keep you hydrated, making for an extra refreshing treat.

Polka Dot Bikini

The Polka Dot Bikini smoothie contains ingredients that are universally loved, plus universally healthy! This smoothie combines strawberries (antioxidants!), bananas (potassium and fiber!), and nonfat milk (calcium!), and is topped off with Planet Smoothie’s fat burner blast to help balance blood sugar, increase metabolism and fight fatigue. Sounds like a good combo to us!

DATES FOR FITNESS LOVERS

BY LIZZY JAMES

HEN MOST people think of date night, they think of things like going out to eat, catching a movie, or even just a romantic candlelit dinner at home. However, if you’re someone who loves getting up and moving, that kind of date might seem a tad bit mundane. Did you know it’s actually SUPER easy (and fun!) to get in a great couples workout while also spending time with the one you love?! From a sunset cuddle on a view-packed mountain to an adventurous rock climbing date, we’ve got you covered!

Go For a Hike

Fitness Level: 5/10 Romance Scale: 8/10 (higher if you pack a picnic) ⊲

First date jitters? Hiking is an excellent time to talk and get to know each other without feeling the pressure. Plus, taking in the sights along the way helps fill in any moments of awkward silence. Looking for a hike close to home? Head to the East Palisades on the Chattahoochee River for a great, scenic hike! The trail climbs to several lofty peaks with outstanding views of the river, especially come sunset — trust us, don’t forget your hammock!

ACTIVE DATES TO HELP YOU GET YOUR SWEAT ON WITH YOUR SWEETIE!

Take a Couples Yoga Class

Fitness Level: 7/10

Romance Scale: 7/10

⊲ There are SO many great (and romantic!) benefits of taking a couples yoga class. From stretching your levels of trust to strengthening your communication, couples yoga can have a positive effect on your relationship that extends far beyond the physical benefits. Many yoga studios, like our friends at To Life! Yoga and Pilates in Buford, offer couples yoga classes on and around Valentine’s Day! 554 W. Main St., Suite 150, Building B, 470-279-4183, ToLifeYogaandPilates.com

GO Indoor Rock Climbing

Fitness Level: 8/10

Romance Scale: 6/10

THROW SOME AXES

Fitness Level: 5/10

Romance Scale: 3/10

If you’re into adventure, are all about trying new things, and love a physical challenge, rock climbing could be the perfect activity date for you and your sweetie! Looking for a place to climb? We recommend our friends at Adrenaline Climbing in Suwanee! Perfect for climbers of all levels, simply walk in and get climbing after a short orientation. 460 Brogdon Road, Suite 100, 770-271-1390, AdrenalineClimbing.com

⊲

⊲ Axe throwing is a great way for couples to learn a new skill, have fun and keep fit — we’re talking a great workout for your lats, shoulders and core! While the sport is growing increasingly popular, most people still don’t know much about it, or haven’t tried it before, so it can earn you serious date points for creativity and open mindedness. Try Axe Master Throwing in Sugar Hill: 225 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 103, 404-692-3667, AxeMaster.com/sugar-hill

⊲ For those competitive couples who keep each other going, why not take a spin class together? While it might not be the most romantic activity on our list, you could up the ante in the romance department by booking a couples massage to ease those tired muscles afterwards. We recommend checking out Real Indoor Cycling in Suwanee for a fun and unique take on a spin class. 3550 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suite 108, 7770-899-6136

Level: 6/10

⊲ There is something so romantic about dancing in the arms of your sweetheart, isn’t there? Signing up for dance classes can be fun, sexy, and a date night that can become a weekly tradition! Art is Motion offers class packages that will teach you and your partner dances such as salsa, ballroom, and even swing dancing. Try one of their two locations: Norcross (1560 Indian Trail Road, Suite 109) and Buford 4965 Lanier Islands Pkwy., Suite 102). For more information, call 678-577-2823 or visit ArtisMotion.org.

⊲

Sprint Condition

Six upcoming 5Ks and half marathons to mark on your calendar for a healthy and active new year. BY

ALICIA CARTER

IT’S NO SECRET that running is a terrific form of exercise. The benefits are plenty: Running improves your cardiovascular fitness, which reduces the risk of conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and strokes. It’s also an excellent way to lose weight and improve your mental health. Plus, it’s an opportunity to get outside and soak in some of that crucial vitamin D. While many people opt to run, jog or walk alone, running can also be a fun social activity. In fact, there are many local running groups that cater to all fitness levels. (Not sure where to start? Check out Big Peach in Suwanee for a list of their weekly group runs.) Once you hit your stride, sign up for one of the many 5Ks taking place around town. Don’t be intimidated: 5Ks are for runners (and walkers) of all levels. And as an added bonus, many benefit amazing local organizations, so all that running and walking will be for a great cause!

Chilly Willy 5K, 10K, and Half Marathon

Saturday, January 14, 8:30 a.m.

⊲ Race through the sweet city of Sugar Hill with this annual 5K, 10K and half marathon. All participants will receive a Chilly Willy long-sleeve race shirt! Half marathon participants will receive a custom finisher medal and a long-sleeve tri-blend shirt with “half marathon” down the sleeve. 5K and 10K participants may purchase a finisher medal for $7 and will receive a cotton long-sleeve shirt. Awards will be given for the Overalls, Masters, Grand Masters, Senior Masters, and the five-year age groups. For more information visit RunSignUp.com.

Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint 5k and fun run

Saturday, February 11, 9 a.m.

Suwanee Half Marathon and Old Town 5K

Sunday, February 19, 7:30 a.m.

⊲

The Rotary Club of Buford/North Gwinnett hosts the 12th annual Suwanee Sweetheart Sprint 5K and Fun Run at Suwanee Town Center. The race is a Peachtree Road Race qualifier and boasts tons of fun, including medals for each age group, fastest dog, most senior finisher, and a Valentine-themed costume contest. Proceeds support Rotary Club of Buford/ North Gwinnett scholarships and other charities. For more information visit SuwaneeSweetheartSprint.com.

The Suwanee Half Marathon has been an annual tradition since 2015. This year, races will take place on Sunday, February 19, with the half marathon beginning at 7:30 a.m. in front of City Hall and the Old Town 5K starting at 7:45 a.m. The 9th annual event is presented by Performance Race Services along with the City of Suwanee, and will benefit the Suwanee Public Arts program. For more information visit SuwaneeHalf.com.

⊲

Suwanee Beer Fest Beer Chaser 5K

Saturday, March 4, 11 a.m.

⊲ The Suwanee Beer Fest Beer Chaser 5K returns to Town Center Park for its third year with its beercentric twist on the traditional 5K. This timed, Peachtree Road Race-qualifying event is perfect for experienced runners and newbies alike. Just choose the ticket that best fits your running style — either non-stop or with beer stops. All 21+ runners will cheers together with a full beer at the finish line. For more information visit SuwaneeBeerFest.com/beer-chaser-5k.

Suwanee Kiwanis Shamrock 5K

Saturday, March 18 8 a.m.

⊲ The Suwanee Kiwanis will host its 11th annual Shamrock 5K at Suwanee Town Center to raise funds for their Don Lee Memorial scholarships. Last year, race proceeds assisted in awarding scholarships to three local high school students. The 3.1-mile course begins at City Hall at 8 a.m. T-shirts and goodie bags will be available for registered runners, and prizes will be awarded for top male and female runners. For more information visit Suwanee.com.

Care for Cops 5K

Run/ Walk Saturday, March 25 8 a.m.

⊲ Taking place at Suwanee Town Center, this annual 5K supports Care for Cops, a nonprofit organization that has provided financial assistance to more than 90 families of fallen Georgia officers since 1999. Runners will receive a T-shirt and medal, and there will also be a DJ blasting fun music and photo ops provided by True Speed Photography. For more information visit Care4Cops.org.

Good for the Soul

ALTERNATIVE NEW YEAR GOALS

WELL-BEING.

BY ALICIA CARTER

TRADITIONALLY, NEW year goals focus on the physical, such as working out more or losing weight, but there are other important goals we often overlook this time of the year. While our health and fitness should always remain a top priority, it’s important to also take steps to maintain our overall wellbeing. From practicing gratitude to removing the clutter from our lives, we’ve compiled five alternative new year goals that are truly good

Start a gratitude journal.

GRATITUDE IS currently a big wellness trend, and for good reason. Studies have shown that regularly giving thanks can help people sleep better, lower stress, and improve interpersonal relationships. One easy way to do this is by keeping a gratitude journal. Varieties of these journals can be found in bookstores, boutiques, and online, and many offer a simple daily prompt that allows you to take a few minutes each day to jot down what you’re grateful for. They are sometimes referred to as a “five-minute journal” because that’s all the time it takes. Honestly, you don’t even have to buy a journal; try keeping a spiral-bound notebook by your bed and write down 3-5 things you’re thankful for each night before bed. It’s as simple as that!

THAT WILL HELP IMPROVE YOUR OVERALL

Make a seasonal donation.

YOU’VE HEARD of spring cleaning, but why not continue that momentum throughout all four seasons? This year, make it a goal to clean out the clutter and donate clothing and unused items at the beginning of each season. Not only will you make more room in your home by removing old items that you no longer use, you’ll also be contributing to those who may be in need. Donation bins and stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army , and many other local consignment stores and shelters make it a super simple process to donate used clothing and other items.

Locally, North Gwinnett Co-op’s Second Blessings Thrift Store accepts donations of clothing, shoes, and housewares for families who have been affected by fire or other disaster. It is also open to the community for shopping and serves as a funding stream for the co-op to continue all of its important work in our community. Learn more at NorthGwinnettCoop.org.

Print the photos from your phone.

TAKE A second to look at the camera roll on your phone. How many photos are there? 1,000? 2,000? Currently, I’m walking around with more than 5,000 photos on my phone. While some may be screenshots or other non-photo related images, the vast majority are photos — photos of my precious kiddos, my family and friends, and more. That’s more than 5,000 memories sitting on my phone that would be gone in an instant if I were to lose my phone or damage it. While it’s important to regularly transfer your photos off of your phone and onto an external hard drive to keep your phone working optimally, those memories are still doing you no good sitting on that hard drive. There are a number of apps (like Snapfish!) that will print your photos each month for only the cost of shipping. So this year, let’s all take the time to print those precious photos and fill up photo albums we can look back on from time to time.

Give yourself a break from social media.

IN A world that is so connected, sometimes it’s important to disconnect — from social media, that is. Social media has become ingrained in our lives. From the time we wake up to the time we lay our head on our pillow, we are constantly checking Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or some other social media platform. It’s so intertwined with our daily lives that it’s almost like we’re on autopilot as we scroll through our feeds. But is 24/7 access to social media actually good for us? In a recent Healthline survey, 25 percent of participants said they feel social media has a negative effect on their mental well-being, and 53 percent said they feel that cutting down on that usage could help. More and more people are saying that social media makes them feel negatively about their own lives. After all, comparison is the thief of joy, and we’re really only seeing people’s highlight reels. Studies show that taking regular social media breaks (between 5 and 10 days) can positively affect our mood, reduce our anxiety, and improve our sleep. So, what can you do instead of scrolling? Take a walk. Read a book. Try a new recipe. The options are endless!

Healthy Cells

Suwanee’s The DRIPBaR offers IV drips and shots that may aid with energy, immunity, and recovery.

What is The DRIPBaR?

Your health depends on the health of your cells. Intravenous nutrient therapy can help boost your cellular health by saturating your cells with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants. The DRIPBaR was created with the goal of helping people obtain their best health using advances in IV therapy.

What are some benefits to IV drip therapy?

IV drip therapy gives your body the essential nutrients it needs at the cellular level making them immediately available for your body to use. Benefits include accelerating the healing process; helping to decrease or reverse the signs of aging; providing your body with a boost of natural energy; aiding in recovery when you're not feeling your best; and fighting certain illnesses and diseases by boosting the immune system.

What are your top selling drips?

The DRIPBaR has several top-selling drips, including the “Soother” for relaxation, the “Shield” for immune support, the “Powerpack” for increased energy, and the “NAD+” for anti-aging.

Why not just take vitamins by mouth?

IV vitamin therapy can ensure the cells obtain nearly 100% of the nutrients that are provided versus only about 30% of nutrients that might be absorbed through oral supplementation.

What are the benefits of a membership?

The DRIPBaR’s memberships are designed to get you results. It takes at least 90 days of consistent monthly drips to feel a noticeable difference. Memberships create

accountability, consistency, and results. The DRIPBaR ensures you are getting exactly what you need each time you come in to make sure you are working toward your goal. Membership prices are 20% to 25% less than individual drip prices.

What if I am short on time and cannot commit to a 30-45 minute session?

The DRIPBaR offers IM Quick Shots and IM Single Shots that will give your body many benefits in just five minutes. The IM Quick Shots are designed to target certain goals of weight loss, athletic support, energy and immunity boost, and beauty needs.

⊲ The DRIPBaR is located at 4369 Suwanee Dam Road, Suite 102, in Suwanee, and is open Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. For more information call 470-722-2493, visit thedripbar.com/suwanee-marketplace, or follow them on social media at @thedripbarsuwanee. Book appointments through their website or The DRIPBaR app.

Wilmoth, LMFT, Thrive Forward Therapy

3 Tips to Help Your Kids Reach Goals and Be Successful

GOOD GOAL setting can be a pathway to resiliency and success. However, without guidance kids and teens tend to live in some unhelpful extremes when it comes to goal setting. I often see teens set too many goals at once, leading them to feel stressed out and overwhelmed. While on the other end of the continuum, I see some kids and teens who prefer not to think about their future or set goals off of short-term desires. We are not born knowing how to reach goals; rather it is a skill to be cultivated, especially in developing and maturing minds that are still learning time management, responsibility, and perseverance skills. When kids reach their goals, it can be quite the confidence boost, but on the flip side, falling short of their goals can be defeating and over time may even lead to a sense of failure and avoiding goals. The more parents, caregivers, teachers, and coaches help kids learn how to successfully set and reach goals, the more they can build confidence to achieve their life dreams even in the face of adversity.

Here are a few tips to help kids with goal setting:

Find motivation.

⊲ Encourage your kids to set their own goals or share their input. Think of the times you have been most motivated to reach a goal; it was likely a goal you set for yourself to get something you really wanted. The same is true for kids and teens. When your kids tell you something they really want, help them develop a plan to reach the goal. For example, if your kid wants to learn to play an instrument, help them break down the steps and skills they need to play and develop a goal to achieve each step. If you are getting angry or repeatedly asking your teen or kid to work harder toward a goal, this could be a signal your teen is not interested in the goal and a new strategy or change of goal might be helpful.

Set realistic goals.

⊲ Goals are usually challenging and take effort to reach, but if kids and teens have to frequently sacrifice sleep, their well-being, play time, or social connections to accomplish a goal it is probably not a very realistic or helpful goal. Help kids and teens break down a larger

Jennifer

goal into sub-goals that can be reached in more realistic and manageable ways. Try to start with small goals to develop skills needed for success such as knowing their limits, time management, or organizational skills before moving on to larger, more long-term goals.

Notice effort.

⊲ Show your support by noticing the effort your kids put toward reaching their goals. If you focus on the effort more than the outcome your kids will tend to do the same, which can help build the skills of perseverance and resiliency. Their thoughts could sound more like, “I know I can get this if I just keep practicing” instead of “I knew I couldn't do this and I would let everyone down.” Even if the outcome is not what you or your teen were hoping for, they still learned helpful skills along the way that they can use to try again and build their confidence.

 It can really make a difference when parents help kids develop skills to better reach their goals. Remember, kids are still learning and will most likely not reach their goals on the first try, but with your encouragement they will hopefully find confidence to try again. Success is often felt when kids and teens have developed the resiliency and confidence to go after their hopes and dreams. ■

JENNIFER WILMOTH, LMFT

Jennifer

Wilmoth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Thrive Forward Therapy in the Suwanee area with over a decade of experience. She received her Masters of Family Therapy from Mercer University School of Medicine. She works with families and individuals dealing with a variety of concerns. She specializes in working with couples who want to improve their relationship, teens experiencing difficulties at home or school, children experiencing behavioral or relational concerns, anxiety, and depression. Learn more at ThriveForwardTherapy.com.

A Tale of Two Cities

TWO CITIES PIZZA CO. BRINGS NEW YORK-STYLE THIN CRUST AND CHICAGO DEEP DISH PIZZAS TO SUWANEE.

By Alicia Carter / Photos by Karl Lamb

HERE’S PERHAPS no food more universally loved than pizza. There’s also probably no food debate more heated here in the States than which style of pizza reigns supreme: New York-style thin crust or Chicago deep dish. Lucky for us, we can have the best of both worlds under one roof at one of Suwanee’s newest restaurants, Two Cities Pizza Co. Combining their entrepreneurial spirit and love of food, longtime friends Zach Greves and Sean Spurlock opened the original Two Cities location in the suburbs of Cincinnati in 2016. The restaurant has

received a number of accolades since opening, including a spot on Yelp's List of the Top 100 Places to Eat in 2021. Just a few months after opening, the restaurant was even voted the best pizza in the Queen City — no small feat for a pizza joint located in the ’burbs. While the food is exceptional, Greves and Spurlock put just as much thought and care into the design and overall atmosphere of the restaurant itself.

Following the success of the Cincinnati location, Greves and Spurlock brought their concept to Suwanee in March 2022. Greves, a fan of Chicago deep dish pizza, and Spurlock, who prefers the thin,

Two Cities Pizza co-owners Sean Spurlock and Zach Greves

foldable New York-style slices, wanted to bring a touch of those classic northern pizzerias to the South. While developing the menu, they met with restaurateurs at pizza spots in Chicago and New York, and developed different dough recipes for each style of pizza.

“We make everything in-house,” Spurlock says. “The process and the ingredients for the New York and the Chicago pizzas are completely separate. What we've found is that some places will say they have a deep dish on their menu or a stuffed crust pizza, but they're using the exact same dough for their thin crust. They're using the same cheese. They're using the same sauce. At Two Cities, the dough, the cheese, and the sauce for our New York pizzas and Chicago pizzas are all different. We make the dough fresh in-house every day, and if we don’t make the product in-house, we’re sourcing it directly from New York or Chicago.”

Explore the Menu

⊲

The menu includes several kinds of New York-style and Chicago deep dish pizzas, along with gluten-free and vegan options. Standouts include New York’s Finest, featuring pepperoni, bacon, sausage, yellow onions, green peppers, mushrooms, mozzarella and a classic red sauce. The Cabbie is like a comforting baked potato on a pie, with mashed potato, bacon, red onions, scallions, mozzarella, chipotle aioli and a garlic crema drizzle. Miss Brooklyn is a good-looking white sauce pizza with goat cheese, red grapes, bacon, mozzarella, a balsamic drizzle and a hearty helping of arugula on top. On the Chicago side, The Wrigley Pie is an ode to the Windy City with mushrooms, spinach, red onions, feta, whole milk mozzarella and a chunky red sauce.

The menu also includes a variety of salads, appetizers like parmesan fries and fried pickles, and a handful of kids’ menu options. Don’t miss out on the Bootleg Bread, an addictive cheesy bread baked with garlic and herbs and served with Two Cities’ famous ranch.

Make it a Night Out

Two Cities offers patrons a laid-back dining experience with first-class food and service. Don’t miss out: the restaurant offers half-priced pints on Tuesdays and halfpriced bottles of wine on Wednesdays.

Two Cities’ bar program is also top-notch and features several cocktails, frozen drinks and wines. The beer selection includes a variety of Chicago and New York brands as well as local beers like Ale of Two Cities Pale Ale, brewed exclusively for the restaurant by Suwaneebased StillFire Brewing.

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The rooftop bar will soon be covered offering shade and fans in the summer and dropdowns and heaters in the colder months.

Two Cities invites patrons to make it a night out with half-priced beer pints on Tuesdays and half-priced bottles of wine on Wednesdays. For a meal with a view, take advantage of the rooftop bar. If it looks familiar, it’s because the rooftop was designed to look like a Chicago L train, a clever way to transport patrons to Chicago and round out the entire experience.

“The rooftop seats 100 people, and we’re currently in the process of having it covered,” Greves says. “In the summer there will be shade and fans, and in the colder months we will have dropdowns and heaters. There will be roughly 15 TVs playing all the games. It's a great place to sit down with friends, have a drink, watch a game, or even host a big party.”

Greves and Spurlock note that Friday and Saturday nights are their busiest, so they encourage guests to take advantage of their waitlist option online. You can put your name on the list and receive an estimated wait time, then just show up to the restaurant when it’s your designated arrival time. Delivery is also available.

A Personal Touch

When designing the Suwanee restaurant, Greves and Spurlock made sure to include touches of the Big Apple and the Windy City. Guests are greeted by a New York

City yellow cab out front and the interior features a Wrigley Field sign hung on an ivy-covered wall. If you look closely at Two Cities’ logo, you’ll notice the Empire State Building and the Willis Tower, formerly the Sears Tower, standing in for the I’s in the name. “We just really love those buildings,” Greves says. “They're iconic, and we personally feel connected to them, too. Things like that are really fun to be able to include — those little details. It's just a really fun concept.”

The restroom includes a New York subway platform and train car complete with graffiti on the walls. It’s a duplicate of the restroom at the original location, which won Cintas’ America’s Best Bathroom Award in 2021. While the Cincinnati restroom is modeled after New York’s City Hall Station, the Suwanee restroom took inspiration from the fittingly named Flushing Station, a real station in Queens.

Patrons will feel like they have stepped inside a real New York subway in Two Cities’ bathrooms, which were modeled after a real station in Queens.

It’s clear that Greves and Spurlock have put a lot of thought into Two Cities Pizza Co., and Suwanee is lucky to have a great pizza restaurant that is family-friendly, while also offering a firstclass dining experience with a five-star level of service. When you eat at Two Cities Pizza Co. it’s like being transported to that neighborhood pizzeria where the regulars catch up over drinks at the bar and families bond over slices of their favorite pizza. And that’s perhaps what Greves and Spurlock are most proud of.

“Pizza is the perfect communal food,” Greves says. “It's so fun to literally break bread together. It's a very fun business to be in because we get to see people at their best. They're coming in to celebrate and they're coming in to enjoy each other’s company with good food. And sharing a pizza is a very fun way to do that.” ■

⊲ Two Cities Pizza Co. is located at 3433 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road in Suwanee. Open Tuesday-Thursday 4-11 p.m.; Friday-Sunday 11 a.m.-11 p.m. For more information, call 678-889-2625 or visit TwoCitiesPizza.com/suwanee.

Zach Greves said he wanted the restaurant to transport diners to both Chicago and New York City.

PARTY HACKS with

NATALIE GARRETT Contributing Writer

Worth a Tackle

BIG HACKS FOR THE BIG GAME

Happy New Year, friends! Hopefully you’re finding some time to relax and decompress as you work through that holiday hangover. Cheers to 2023! Now that we’re diving into January and February, we can set our sights on the goal line. Not only figuratively, but quite literally… because it’s almost time for THE BIG GAME! AKA, the next opportunity to rally around the Southern trilogy: food, friends, and football. Since this is more of a casual festivity, I’m digging into my playbook and pulling out some super simple ways to elevate your watch party. Efficiency is key when there are buzzworthy commercials and a can’t-miss halftime show on our hosting hands, amirite? Ready… Set (the table)... Hike!

Super Snacks:

Soup-er Bowl Dinner: Homemade vegetable, chicken noodle, white chicken tortilla, loaded potato, broccoli cheddar… are you feeling all warm and comforted yet? Soup is a real winner in the winter season. Not only can it be an economical dish that yields large portions, but you can turn this main course into a potluck style affair by letting guests bring their favorite. Just make sure to provide plenty of bowls and spoons so everyone can try the various kinds!

PRO TIP: Grab a pack of yellow napkins and label them “Penalty Flags .” You’ll need napkins anyways, and these will guarantee at least one good chuckle from the group!

Suwanee Magazine's official party queen shares insights on making your next event a smashing success!

Nat

Champion Chips:

We often just throw the chips in a bowl and move on with the party, right? Well hold up, because I suggest stepping it up a notch. First, snag some brown paper bags (i.e. the old school lunch sacks). Next, on the front of the bag, run a piece of white tape straight down the center. Then, cut some smaller strips of white tape and add those horizontally across the vertical strip, mimicking the lace on a football. Now you can fill each bag with chips so attendees have their own pre-portioned (and festive!) serving, ready to grab and go.

Games… on AND off the TV

Chili

Cook Off:

Another idea for the competitive type… charge an entrance fee that’s presented in the form of chili. Then the group can duke it out all the way to the endzone over who makes it the most delicious. Plus, it’s always fun to explore other people’s twists on this age-old recipe. And again - your fellow fans are pitching in, which takes some of the culinary pressure off of the host.

There’s plenty of competition already happening on the big screen, but try spicing up your shindig by incorporating a little friendly competition of your own. Do a quick search for Super Bowl Bingo on the ol’ trusty Pinterest and check out the options! Some are more commercial themed while others include more technicalities of the game, so choose a template that fits your crowd the best. You’ll just need to print out the cards and provide some writing utensils, then you’ll be on your way to singing B-I-N-G-O.

Or, another way to approach football bingo is to select a customizable printable template instead of a premade design. This is where things can get interesting! Before kickoff, pass out the blank cards and have each party goer fill in the spaces themselves. They could write anything from a touchdown to a pizza advertisement to an announcer mentioning the weather. Those who think they hold the most knowledge of the sport will probably be confident they can hit bingo pretty quickly… but only if they play their cards right.

CULTIVATION BREWING CO.

Cultivating a Community

BY: LIZZY JAMES / PHOTOS BY BROOKE WOMACK PHOTOGRAPHY

ultivation Brewing Co. began when owners Britt, Tate, and Paul bonded over their love of craft beer and desire to develop deep roots in the historically rich area of Norcross. Britt and Paul worked in the area with their landscaping business and wanted

the brewery to be a nod to growing and cultivating something from the ground up (hence the name, Cultivation!). Since opening, they have planted the seed of their passions into a place for the community to build new memories and connections while simultaneously enjoying unique, quality-craft recipes.

We had the chance to catch up with co-owner Britt Lancaster to hear more about how Cultivation Brewing Co. is making waves in the Georgia craft beer community.

How did you get involved in the craft beer industry? We entered the craft beer industry because we all had a deep love and passion for craft beer. Like most, we started out homebrewing on the kitchen stove or over a turkey burner and eventually graduated to a larger scale pilot system that we still occasionally use in our brewery today.

Why Norcross? We have lived within the city limits of Norcross for over 20 years, and have a lot invested

in the community. We not only love the city, but we also operate a few other businesses in addition to the brewery here. We saw an opportunity to combine our passion with our community, and bring craft beer to Norcross, because there were essentially zero craft breweries within 10 miles from us.

What is the story behind the name Cultivation? Our partners have a long background in the green industry and felt the name was a perfect bridge to the beer industry while also paying homage to our roots. Cultivation is a word that honors the process and the details of developing this establishment we call home. It’s about how we aim to create and nurture relationships with each person that steps through the door.

What has the community support been like? The community support has been nothing short of amazing and very humbling. The relationships and genuine friendships we have created could not be traded for anything. Today, everyone seems to talk about community support and involvement, which could not be more evident than within our brewery and taproom.

What sets Cultivation apart from other Georgia breweries?

The atmosphere of Cultivation is very unique. You can enjoy wonderfully crafted beer among friends, family, youngsters and pets with an openair concept. Live music, events and food trucks are always a plus. There is something for everyone here, and all are welcome at our brewery.

What is your best seller in the taproom? Our best sellers include our Chancellor Kolsch Style Ale, any of our freshest IPAs (of course), our Simple Habits Farmhouse Ale, and all of our Fruited Seltzers and Sours. Keep on the lookout for our limited seasonal bottle releases, like Stowaway Barrel Aged RIS and Muscadine

Cultivation Brewing Co. invites guest to enjoy the atmosphere among friends, family, youngsters and pets in their large outdoor space.

Cultivation Brewing Co. Owners Britt Lancaster, Paul Bennett and Tate Clements

Flora blended with local grapes, hand-picked from a local vineyard right here in Norcross.

If you could recommend a seasonal beer for people to try this winter what would it be? I would definitely recommend the Peanut Roaster Peanut Butter Stout or our Stowaway RIS if you’re looking for a delicious winter warmer.

Are you currently hosting any events in the taproom? We host weekly events almost every day of the week. Tuesday evenings we host a community night that features discounted brews served by one of our owners behind the bar. Community has been everything to us since day one, so we wanted to designate a night just for that. We also have food trucks, live music, and trivia during the week as well! ■

⊲ Cultivation Brewing Co. is located at 650 Langford Drive in Norcross. For a complete beer list and to stay up to date on everything Cultivation, visit CultivationBrew.com or follow them on social media.

STILLFIRE BREWING SETS THE MOO'D INTERNATIONALLY

SUWANEE'S LOCAL BREWERY MEDALS AT THE 2022 INTERNATIONAL BEER CUP IN TOKYO, JAPAN FOR THEIR POPULAR IMPERIAL STOUT DARK MOO'D

By Lizzy James

N JUST three years, the StillFire Brewing team in Suwanee has created over 100 new and innovative craft beers and seltzers. A few standouts received national attention as the brewery took home medals from notable competitions such as the Suwanee Beer Fest Brew Battle, the Can Can Awards, the U.S. Open Beer Championship and even the country’s largest beer contest the Great American Beer Festival Competition. Now, the brewing team can add an International medal winner to their growing list of awards.

Each year, The Craft Brewers Association of Japan hosts its annual international beer competition, The International Beer Cup (IBC), in Ota City, Tokyo, Japan. In 2022, American craft brewer participation was a success, with U.S. breweries winning 35 awards in total, including five gold, 14 silver, and 16 bronze. Amongst the 14 silver medalists was Suwanee’s own StillFire Brewing.

Brewmaster Phil Farrell decided to throw the team’s hat into the ring at the 2022 International Beer Cup and came home a silver medalist with the brewery’s popular Dark Moo’d Milk Stout. No stranger to receiving awards, this 10.8% ABV beast is a rich and creamy, full-bodied imperial milk stout that has previously brought home a silver medal in the 2021 Can Can Awards and a bronze medal in the 2021 U.S. Open. The competition in Japan was fierce as judges saw 1,111 entries from 268 breweries in 16 countries including Australia, China, Colombia, Denmark, Spain, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, The Netherlands, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, the U.S., Vietnam, and Japan.

Ultimately, the 69 international beer judges favored Dark Moo’d and the StillFire Brewing team came out as silver medalists in the British-Style Imperial category. “We are ecstatic to be bringing home an international medal to the brewhouse,” says Phil Farrell. “Dark Moo’d

taproom

Dark Moo’d features notes of chocolate and luscious flavors of coffee, caramel, dark fruit and toffee. This big, dark beer is silky smooth, with none of the boozy burn you might expect from a 10.8% stout. Those looking to try this multi-award winner can visit the StillFire taproom for a glass or take it to go in 32 oz. crowlers. ■

has been a popular beer among patrons in the

and now has fans in several different countries!”

“We are ecstatic to be bringing home an international medal to the brewhouse. Dark Moo’d has been a popular beer among patrons in the taproom and now has fans in several different countries!”

- Phil Farrell, Brewmaster StillFire Brewing

STILLFIRE BREWING JANUARY & FEBRUARY EVENTS

2022 Battle of the Brewers

JAN

StillFire Brewing's brewers have created four new beers that will compete to see which beer will reign supreme. Stop in and try all four between January 3rd and Super Bowl Sunday and cast your vote for the best beer. The winning brewer will take home an awesome trophy and all of the bragging rights that go along with it!

JAN

Great StillFire Roaring ’20s Party

StillFire's taproom becomes a speakeasy with special champagne mocktails and live jazz music all day featuring a piano player 3-6pm and Radio Kings 4-piece band from 7-10pm. There will be prizes for best dressed.

JAN

21

FEB

Dude 21 Charity Event

Celebrate the life of Chandler Patterson and support the Dude 21 Foundation. A portion of proceeds from beer sales will be donated to the charity.

Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos

The Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos return to StillFire for a ridiculously fun all-request sing-a-long music and comedy show that is definitely not for kids. Seating is first come-first serve. $5 cover starting at 6pm.

FEB

Beads & Beers Mardi Gras Party

New Orleans comes to Suwanee on February 18th with Beads and Brews, StillFire's annual Mardi Gras celebration. Get to the taproom for live music from a jazz sax player from 3-6pm and Atlanta Craw Daddies 2nd line band from 7-10pm, New Orleans cuisine, a make your own mask crafts table, the special release of Mardi McFly King Cake Ale and a Hurricane Sour on draft with hurricane glasses for sale, beads and prizes for best dressed. Laissez le bon temps rouler!

18

JAZZ/SWING BAND

For more information, go to StillFireBrewing.com/Events.

FEST IS #1!

T WAS more than just the luck of the Irish when Georgia’s Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest was recently voted the No. 1 Beer Festival in the country in USA Today’s 2022 Best Beer Festival contest. Taking place on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, the festival doubles as the largest craft beer festival in Georgia and one of the most highly anticipated St. Patrick’s Day weekend events in the state. Boasting a selection of more than 350 craft beers from 100+ breweries, the festival draws an annual attendance of more than 6,000 craft beer fanatics from across the country (including Florida, Tennessee, Illinois and even California and Washington) to experience the ultimate celebration of American craft beer. Attendees come dressed head-totoe in St. Paddy’s green with kilts, shamrocks, green beards and more, making for a truly unique beer festival experience.

Event organizers spend an entire year planning the event down to the smallest detail. “Being officially voted the No. 1 Beer Festival in the country is a testament to the community and culture surrounding Suwanee Beer Fest,” said Tiffany Belflower, Suwanee Beer Fest’s event coordinator. “For 11 years,

each aspect of the festival, from the breweries, beer, games and entertainment to the vendors and sponsors, has been curated to create an experience that has become what many feel is ‘Suwanee’s Favorite Day.’”

The annual ode to craft beer is also a communal experience where likeminded people gather together to enjoy an afternoon exploring and learning about beer — while also having a really great time. Over the past decade, the festival has hosted an impressive musical lineup that includes nationally recognized cover bands like Departure and Slippery When Wet, as well as a variety of festival games such as axe throwing, giant beer pong and cornhole. The festival is also known for its annual Homebrew Contest, a competition whose winners have gone on to open their own successful Georgia breweries, including Jekyll Brewing and Social Fox Brewing.

While Suwanee Beer Fest may make headlines for its incredible selection of craft beer, event organizers put just as much thought behind their philanthropic efforts. To date, Big South Productions, the metro Atlanta-based event production company behind Suwanee Beer Fest

and its sister events, including Suwanee Wine Fest, the Beer Chaser 5K and the Spooky Spirits 5K, has given more than $170,000 to local charities and organizations through proceeds raised from its events. One such nonprofit is Cooper’s Crew, a local organization dedicated to finding a cure for Clear Cell Sarcoma formed in memory of local North Gwinnett student Cooper O’Brien. Cooper’s Crew works to fund research for treatment options for Clear Cell Sarcoma and grant scholarships to local students facing a tremendous amount of adversity. Their work has been instrumental in the founding of The Clear Cell Sarcoma Foundation, whose mission is to make Clear Cell Sarcoma survivable through education and scientific research.

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miss

store for the 2023 “Best Beer Fest in the Country ” Mark your calendar, Suwanee Beer Fest makes its way back to Town Center Park on March 18, 2023.

Tickets officially go on sale January 13, 2023, at noon. To purchase tickets and for more information, visit SuwaneeBeerFest.com. ■

Don’t

out on a chance to see what shenanigans are in

“Being officially voted the #1 Beer Festival in the country is a testament to the community and culture surrounding Suwanee Beer Fest... an experience that has become what many feel is ‘Suwanee’s Favorite Day.’”

- Tiffany Belflower, Event Coordinator

THE LATEST FROM IN AND AROUND SUWANEE

Children’s Book Written in Honor and Memory of Friends

BUFORD RESIDENT Madi Taylor recently self-published a children’s book, All That We Need, in honor of her friends Grant and Mary Drayton Godbee, who passed away in a tragic accident in 2020. The book follows King Griff and Queen Marie, whose lion tribe awoke one morning to find their best friends had passed away, much like Madi. The lion tribe thought they would be lost without their friends, but the smallest cub reminded everyone the lessons their King and Queen taught them: To have hope and courage. The book tells a story of hope in tragic times while also honoring the memory of her good friends. All That We Need is available for purchase on Amazon.com.

HOLBROOK SUGAR HILL CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING

ON NOVEMBER 10, Holbrook Sugar Hill celebrated its grand opening as “the sweetest place to live.” The event featured live music, food and drinks, and “golden ticket” giveaways. Located within walking distance to Sugar Hill’s vibrant downtown, Holbrook is Gwinnett’s newest senior living community that is reinventing assisted living and memory care services. Holbrook Sugar Hill promotes socialization, wellness, and activities in a sophisticated environment that inspires its residents to fully embrace their next chapter of life. With six locations across the Southeast and more on the way, Holbrook’s modern approach is catching on, with more and more people seeking out this refreshing take on senior living. Holbrook Sugar Hill is located at 5135 W. Broad St. in Sugar Hill. For more information call 404-445-7777 or visit HolbrookLife.com.

Think You Have the Cutest Pup in Suwanee?



THE ANNUAL Suwanee Magazine Cutest Pup Contest returns for its 10th year! The winning pup will receive a variety of amazing prizes to primp, spoil, and feed your pup, PLUS a feature in the 2023 March/April issue of Suwanee Magazine. Submit your photo and entry between January 9 and January 20. Then tell your family and friends to vote for your cute pooch daily from January 23 to February 1. Details are available at SuwaneeMagazine.com/Cutest-Pup-2023.

Suwanee Wine Fest Donates To Annandale Village

THE 9TH annual Suwanee Wine Fest returned to Town Center Park on November 5, 2022, treating attendees to samples of more than 150 wines from around the world. Each year festival organizers partner with a local nonprofit as their benefiting charity. This year a portion of proceeds benefited Annandale Village, a residential and nursing facility in Suwanee that provides life assistance to adults with developmental disabilities and acquired brain injuries. Following the festival, Suwanee Wine Fest was excited to donate more than $4,500 to Annandale Village to help support its award-winning programs and services. For more information about Annandale Village, visit Annandale.org.

MILL CREEK HIGH SCHOOL WINS FIRST STATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

The Mill Creek High School Hawks won the first state football title in school history with a 70-35 rout of previously unbeaten Carrollton on December 10 at Georgia State's Center Parc Stadium, giving Gwinnett its third straight state champion in Class AAAAAAA. The Hawks' 70 points broke the state record for most points scored by one team in a state final, according to Georgia High School Football Daily records, besting the old mark of 62 set by Valdosta in 1971 and Warner Robins in 2020.

Mill Creek set the pace early in the game by scoring on running back Cam Robinson’s 66-yard run and on

an 88-yard return of a blocked field goal by Jamal Anderson. Five of the Hawks’ touchdowns were 48-plus yards. The Hawks ran for 406 yards, threw for 191 yards, and had 660 yards in kickoff returns. Congratulations, Hawks, on your historic win!

THE NEXT STOP HOSTS HOLIDAY DINNER FOR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

 WHEN PEOPLE with special needs turn 22 years old they age out of special education services. The school bus stops coming and they are faced with limited opportunities and a tough transition into adulthood. That’s where The Next Stop steps in. Located in Suwanee, Georgia, The Next Stop provides opportunities for adults with special needs to socialize, enjoy recreation, and continue to learn three afternoons a week.

“My husband and I founded The Next Stop in 2006 and opened our doors inside Suwanee Sports Academy in September 2007,” says Vicki LaRoche. “We love that our members meet inside a ‘community’ building. We serve adults with special needs who can participate successfully within small groups and meet the set requirements. We have four invaluable employees, but most importantly, we have 4-5 devoted volunteers each day who facilitate activities and mentor our members.”

On December 9, The Next Stop hosted a dinner where members prepared 24 pans of lasagna along with

cookie bars for dessert. That night, they served 273 lasagna meals for family and friends. According to LaRoche, the highlight of the evening was a musical performance presented by The Next Stop’s members titled "Believe” that was written, choreographed, and directed by The Next Stop’s music therapist.

“It’s amazing what can happen when someone believes in you,” LaRoche says. “Recognizing this, The Next Stop always encourages our members to attempt new things, respond to questions, and express their thoughts. We model patience and engage without judgment. We believe that when in a safe and secure environment, our members can thrive.”

For more information about The Next Stop, visit TheNextStop.org.

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A Post-Holiday Purpose for Those (Formerly) Live Christmas Trees

ONCE THE magic of Christmas has passed — the presents have been opened and the decorations have been put away — it’s time to decide how to properly discard of the once majestic Christmas tree. Give your tree a new sense of purpose through the City of Suwanee’s “treecycling” campaign, which is part of Keep Georgia Beautiful’s annual ‘Bring One for the Chipper’ program. Last year, mulch from nearly 1,200 former Christmas trees was spread in Suwanee parks.

Area residents may drop off their former living Christmas trees at Sims Lake Park, located at 4600 Suwanee Dam Road, through January 7. Volunteers will be available to assist with unloading from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. on Saturday, January 7. Decorations, lights, and stands should be removed from all trees prior to donating. ⊲

Adult and teen volunteers are needed to assist January 7. To volunteer, contact Nicole Schnepper at nschnepper@suwanee.com or 770-904-3379. For more information visit Suwanee.com.

PHOTO BY MELISSA MANDERSON

Greater Atlanta Christian School Collects 22,500+ Cans for Can-A-Thon

SUPPORTING THE 11Alive/Salvation Army Can-A-Thon has been an annual school-wide tradition at Greater Atlanta Christian School for the past 10 years. The GAC community came together in the fight against food insecurity in the Gwinnett County community and beyond.

22,563 non-perishables were collected and delivered to the Salvation Army on Friday, December 2nd.

On Can-A-Thon collection day, each school level's service and leadership groups lent a hand collecting, counting, boxing, packing, and delivering food. On-site at Salvation Army, the GAC Concert Choir serenaded volunteers with spirited Christmas music while student leaders unloaded boxes and presented the donations for the 11Alive/ Salvation Army Can-A-Thon. It truly was a school-wide collaborative effort that made this donation possible.

⊲ For more information on Greater Atlanta Christian School, visit GAC.org.

RAINBOW VILLAGE AWARDS OVER 23K IN MICROGRANTS TO HELP LOCAL FAMILIES OVERCOME OBSTACLES

IN 2017, Rainbow Village established its Women’s Giving Circle as a means for women with a passion for philanthropy and volunteerism to connect while increasing awareness about family homelessness and promoting the concept of “giving” of one’s time, talent and treasure. In 2020, the group established its “Be the Change” Microgrants Initiative to benefit members of the nonprofit’s Aspire Residential and Thrive Alumni Programs. Over the last two years, the group has raised and awarded $16,800 to help current residents and alumni overcome obstacles in the path to achieving their goals. On December 7, Women’s Giving Circle members, community guests, Rainbow Village staff and microgrant applicants gathered at the Duluth Festival Center to celebrate the holidays, the organization’s many victories over the course of the last year, and bestow a series of small grants to deserving recipients at its largest grand total to date: $23,650.

“This has become one of my favorite nights of the year,” said Rainbow Village CEO Melanie Conner. “As I looked around that room, I thought to myself ‘THIS is what the holidays are all about –coming together to bestow gifts and bring joy.’ Only these microgrants bring more than joy. They bring meaningful change. The finish line is in sight for many of our resident applicants. They’re nearing the end of our program, but they have a hurdle to clear before they can get there. These microgrants help them pay off medical bills, student loans, business license application fees and so much more that may have been weighing them down or keeping them from saving what they need to pursue self-sufficiency.”

Marking the top honor for the night, the Barbara Howard High Achiever Award was bestowed upon a very deserving Adrian K., who has been a resident of Rainbow Village for a little over a year. Named in honor of the late Barbara Howard, this award reflects Howard’s energy, enthusiasm and inspiration. In addition to being the owner of Georgia-based food processing company, Susanna’s Kitchen, for 55 years, Howard and her husband were prolific philanthropists. She supported Rainbow Village in a wide variety of ways including serving as the capital campaign chair to aid in building the Duluth campus. Her hard work and dedication helped the organization raise over $6 million to provide housing for families experiencing homelessness.

The Rainbow Village Women’s Giving Circle is a diverse, dynamic and generous group of women engaged in an exciting venture of strategic philanthropy. Gatherings are held quarterly and often involve a speaker, food, beverages, games, prizes and fun. The kickoff meeting for 2023 will be held in March. For more information and to register on the Women’s Giving Circle, go to rainbowvillage.org/womens-giving-circle.

Adrienne K. received the Howard High Achiever Award

CREATING CLOSER community is a big part of what we do here at Suwanee Magazine. That’s why we’re proud to bring you The Faces of Suwanee. Suwanee is a great community with great people. We’ll be featuring conversations we have with members of our community as a way of telling the story of Suwanee, one smiling face at a time. The Faces of Suwanee shines a light on the people who live and work here. You can read all of the interviews at TheFacesofSuwanee.com, and even nominate someone you think should be featured on the website. Be sure to follow Suwanee Magazine’s Facebook page where we’ll be sharing new Faces of Suwanee interviews regularly.

JEFF AND CRISTINA OLIVER

OWNERS, POSTAL PLUS

Everyone in town seems to know the husband-and-wife team behind Postal Plus, Jeff and Cristina Oliver. Longtime residents and business owners in Town Center Park, the Olivers have spent 27 years creating and making incredible print products for so many of us! We recently caught up with them to find out what they love most about Suwanee.

Interview by Julie Perdue

PLEASE TELL US A LITTLE ABOUT YOUR FAMILY. Jeff and Cristina: We have two children ages 39 and 38, three grandkids, two girls and one boy ages 4 months to 4 and a half years old. They all live close by. We love being grandparents!

TELL US ABOUT YOUR CURRENT AND PAST CAREER. WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT IT?

Jeff: I ran a lumber yard for 20 years and decided at one point that I needed to go into business for myself. We researched this type of business and decided to go out on our own and not be a franchise. We are a true mom-and-pop business. We love our customers. They are very supportive. Cristina: I studied biology in college and was a stay-

at-home mom when we started our business. Every day is different, and we never know who will come through our door. We are now seeing our third generation of customers!

WHAT ARE A COUPLE OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS IN OUR COMMUNITY? We love Milpa Cantina, a new Mexican restaurant. We also love Tequila Mama.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED OR WORKED HERE? Jeff: We now live in Brookhaven. We have been in business for 27 years in Suwanee. We have spent most of our lives here, almost 40 years. Cristina: I am from Costa Rica. I moved to Georgia in 1982 and we got married here.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUWANEE Jeff and Cristina: The people. They rally behind others and are genuinely nice. We love the people who work for the city because they make us feel that we are welcome and that we matter.

WHAT CURRENT OR FORMER BUSINESS, OR PLACE, MAKES YOU FEEL THE MOST NOSTALGIC?

Jeff: The old post office on Main Street. We remember Horace Cook. Since we were not a franchise and didn’t have the training, we learned so much from the post office and threw our business together in two weeks!

IF YOU COULD TAKE ANYONE TO LUNCH, DEAD OR ALIVE, WHO WOULD THAT BE? Jeff: Anthony Bourdain, a famous chef.

WHAT TYPE OF MUSIC DO YOU LIKE AND WHAT ARTIST/BAND WOULD YOU LIKE TO SEE?

Jeff: I would like to have seen Elton John back in the day when he was young. I would also love to see Cher. Cristina: New country and classic rock. I’d like to see Brett Eldredge. I love to listen to Bocelli as well.

WHAT IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACE YOU HAVE EVER BEEN?

Jeff: The British Virgin Islands. When you see it in person, it’s just beautiful! Cristina: It is so difficult to say. There are so many places to see. The Grand Canyon is one.

WHERE WOULD YOU GO? Jeff: Any mom-and-pop restaurant in Italy.

WHAT WAS THE FIRST MOVIE YOU REMEMBER SEEING IN A THEATER? Jeff: The Sand Pebbles with Steve McQueen in 1966.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO A CROWD OF PEOPLE?

Jeff: Be nice. Cristina: Just try to be kind and grateful.

WHO IS THE MOST INTERESTING PERSON YOU HAVE EVER MET IN SUWANEE? Jeff and Cristina: It is hard to define the most interesting person. We meet so many people and have learned lots of cultural things, especially regarding food. We’ve been invited to our customers’ homes for dinner. We are so grateful for those opportunities.

WHERE WOULD YOU LOVE TO TRAVEL TO? Jeff and Cristina: We would love to visit every state in North America and would love to go to Greece. We close the week of Thanksgiving and that’s when we travel.

TELL US SOMETHING INTERESTING ABOUT YOU THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW. Jeff and Cristina: We met when we were both 15. We met through friends.

WOULD YOU RATHER SING TO A CROWD OF 50 PEOPLE OR SPEAK TO A CROWD OF 500?

Cristina: Oh, speak! Jeff: I agree!

F For more The Faces Of Suwanee interviews, go to TheFacesOfSuwanee.com

Hit the Trail...

PHASE 1 OF THE SUGAR HILL GREENWAY IS OPEN FOR THE COMMUNITY TO ENJOY!

Grab your four-legged friends, your best running shoes, and LEGS go out to the greenway! The first leg of the Sugar Hill Greenway is open and ready for feet to hit the ground running. Five out of the planned 16.5-mile trail is now complete and will connect Downtown Sugar Hill to neighborhoods, schools, and parks. Within the Sugar Hill Greenway is a trail with a paved path intended for shared use by pedestrians, bicyclists, wheelchair users, joggers, and other non-motorized users.

Greenway Entrance Points:

CORNERSTONE PARK: At the corner of West Broad Street and Church Street this downtown park is the start of the Greenway. Begin your walk at mile zero and head down Church Street to Level Creek Road to enjoy the trail.

E.E. ROBINSON PARK, NORTH: Enter the woods just beyond Sugar Hill Elementary School. The path leads through the park to Peachtree Industrial Boulevard (PIB). Parking is available in the lower lot closest to PIB.

E.E. ROBINSON PARK, SOUTH: As you continue south on PIB, you will enter the park where there is parking, a splash pad, park trails, and other amenities.

PIB ENTRANCE AT GWINNETT CHURCH: Continue south along PIB out of E.E. Robinson Park, South until you near Gwinnett Church then follow the trail that heads into the woods up the hill. This section features a paved trail that travels through dense trees and greenery to Level Creek Road.

GOLD MINE PARK: Cross Level Creek Road and enter Gold Mine Park where you will find parking and

restrooms. Enjoy an overlook of Simmons Mine, an inactive mine from the 1800s through the early 1900s. You can either take the sidewalk on Level Creek Road back to Cornerstone Park or continue through the woods to Whitehead Road. This densely forested section of the trail crosses Level Creek where you will travel over several boardwalks and bridges. Turn right and use the sidewalks to return to Downtown Sugar Hill or continue south to Bethany Church.

BETHANY CHURCH TRAILHEAD: As you head south, walking along Whitehead Road, the trail goes down the hill, through a swampy wetland, and follows a creek under the road to a parking area in front of Bethany Church. This ends phase 1 of the Greenway.

Hit the Gym...

⊲

FOR THOSE cooler days this winter, drop by the E Center to get your exercise in. The E Center is located at 5009 West Broad St. in Downtown Sugar Hill and has a basketball court, an indoor six-layered padded walking and running track, treadmills, bikes, ellipticals, row machines, free weights, and a multi-use strength gym. It’s also known for its variety of classes tailored for every age, workout preference, and fitness level.

E CENTER HOURS: Monday-Saturday, 7 a.m. -9 p.m. and Sunday, noon-6 p.m. Open gym costs $2 per person. The gym is available for open play MondaySaturday, 7 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday, noon-6 p.m.

ON THE SCENE

Holly Jolly Day Friday, December 2nd TOWN CENTER PARK PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE AND LANNY FARMER

Suwanee Wine Fest

Saturday, November 5th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY JON ROGERS, SAWYER STROMWALL & ANGELA VEUGELER

BY REED WILSON

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