Duluth Life • Winter 2023/2024

2023 WINTER

WI LD CAT COR N ER Exciting Things Happening at DHS

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H O L I DAY E V E NT S Frosty Fun, Deck the Hall and More

AC T I V I T Y G UI D E Winter Fun for the Whole Family

MAYOR & CI T Y CO U N C I L Mayor – Nancy Harris City Council Post 1 – Jamin Harkness City Council Post 2 – Marline Thomas City Council Post 3 – Lamar Doss

IN THIS

City Council Post 4 – Manfred Graeder

IS S U E

City Council Post 5 – Greg Whitlock

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FROM THE MAYOR

CIT Y STA FF

4

WHAT IS YOUR DUTY AS T REE OWNER?

5

PROPERTY TAXES

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OCCUPATIONAL TAX CERT IF IC AT E RENEWAL

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PUBLIC SAFETY AMBASSA D ORS

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STREAMS AND BUFFERS AN D EASEMENTS. . . OH MY!

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WILDCAT CORNER

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ACTIV ITY GUIDE

City Manager – James Riker Assistant City Manager/Finance – Ken Sakmar Assistant City Manager/City Clerk – Teresa Lynn Economic Development & Marketing Director – Chris McGahee Community Development & Engineering Director – Margie Pozin Chief Judge & Court Administrator – Charles Lewis Barrett, III Chief of Police – Jaquelyn Carruth Public Works Director – Audrey Turner

O UR OF FICES WI L L B E C LO S E D F O R THES E UP CO MING H O L I DAYS November 23 – Thanksgiving Day November 24 – Day after Thanksgiving December 22 – Christmas Eve December 25 – Christmas January 1 – New Year’s Day January 16 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

I MP O RTA NT C ONTAC T I NFO City Hall – 770.476.3434 Public Safety – 770.476.4151 Public Works – 770.476.2454 Municipal Courts – 770.623.2771 Bunten Road Park – 770.814.6981 Duluth Festival Center – 770.497.5291

MAI LI N G A DDR ES S City of Duluth 3167 Main St., Duluth, GA 30096 Magazine Design – Accent Creative Group Cover Photo – Dustin Grau Photography

T HA NK YOU, DULUTH Over these last 16 years that I have served as Mayor of Duluth, I was part of a team that reinvented Duluth. We used best practices found in other successful developments plus we added our own creative touches. Our focus on public safety, providing quality services, improved aesthetics, rehabilitating neighborhoods through code enforcement, adding public art and nurturing city-wide economic development have been important to our success. Sometimes risk taking was necessary to spur new downtown development and you trusted us to do this well. We have hosted numerous special events, festivals, dignitaries, and patriotic ceremonies making sure we reached every culture and generation within our reach.

BE T H E CHANGE YO U W IS H T O SE E IN THE WO RLD - M AHATMA GANDHI

We have won awards in numerous categories and received public recognition for jobs well done. The work was worthwhile, exciting and consuming; it produced both tangible and intangible results. And, we did it all together as a true collegial team. Thank you for giving me the honor to serve as your Mayor.

Keep in Touch,

DULUTH LIFE | 3

W HAT IS YO U R D U TY AS A T RE E OWN ER?

BY MARCUS HEAD

WHY D I D I T FA LL?

Duluth has an abundance of neighborhoods with mature trees that make them aesthetically enjoyable places to live. However, these trees can become a source of conflict between neighbors if they aren’t managed. This summer’s weather brought Duluth severe storms with high winds and heavy rain. Those conditions caused trees to fall or break.

If a healthy tree falls because of severe weather, it is considered an “Act of God.” In this scenario, the tree owner is very unlikely to be held liable or negligent.

A few questions should be asked about your responsibilities as a property owner with trees.

On the other side of the issue, if an owner knew or should have known the tree was dead, diseased, or decayed, they may be held liable for damage to property owned by others and responsible for the clean-up. It is important to know the condition of your trees to avoid liability and be a good neighbor.

WHO OWN S T HE T REE? The owner of a tree is the person or party who owns the property where the tree is rooted. If the tree base is on a property boundary, the ownership is shared and both property owners have an interest in the tree.

The property owner with the tree(s) has a duty to maintain them so they don’t become a hazard to others and their property. Georgia applies a “reasonable person” standard to knowing whether a tree is hazardous. If a property owner with trees has any doubt about their condition, a certified arborist can evaluate a tree for diseases and decay and provide documentation.

Any portion of the fallen tree that lies on your property is YOUR responsibility to clean up and remove.

In other words, if your neighbor’s healthy tree is blown down by weather onto your property, the owner/neighbor is NOT responsible for removing the tree from your property.

D O ES T HE OWN ER K N OW A B O U T T HE HA Z A RD OUS T REE? If you believe a neighbor’s tree is a hazard because of disease or decay, talk to them and explain how it poses a threat to your property.

It is best to document the notification to that neighbor to meet the standard of “knew or should have known.”

This notification is often done with certified mail. Duluth Code Enforcement does not have a certified arborist on staff.

When addressing the City’s ordinance related to trees, we apply a layperson’s perspective to determine if a tree is hazardous.

4 | DULUTH LIFE

PROPE RT Y TA XE S 2 023 P ROP ERTY TAX PAY ME NTS AR E D UE IN FULL BY D E CE MB E R 15 , 2 02 3 •

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Tax bills were mailed directly to homeowners on September 1. If you have an escrow account through your mortgage lender, you may contact them to ensure payment is scheduled. If you are a new property owner and did not receive a City of Duluth 2023 tax notice, call 770.476.3434 or email taxes@duluthga.net.

Any unpaid taxes from prior years were added to the 2023 tax bill. Current amounts due can be found online at www.duluthga.net/payonline by using only the parcel number OR last name to look up your account.

Questions? Visit the website or email the Property Tax Officer at taxes@duluthga.net and indicate the map/parcel number in the subject line.

CRYSTA L H UN TZIN G ER Property Tax Officer

HO M ES T EA D TA X RELI EF GRA N T ( HT RG) •

If there is a credit showing on your tax bill, a one-time “Homestead Tax Relief Grant” credit has been applied in the amount of $117.92 for 2023. HTRG was funded by the State of Georgia to reduce this year’s tax bill for eligible homeowners.

S E NIOR/H OM ESTE AD E X E MPTIO NS •

Qualified exemptions reduce the tax amounts due. All exemptions must be applied for with the Gwinnett County Tax Commissioner’s office prior to April 1.

TAX

DULUTH LIFE | 5 DULUTH LIFE | 5

OC CUPAT I ON AL TAX CERT I FI C AT E REN EWAL The annual renewal season for City of Duluth Occupational Tax Certificates runs from January to April of each year. Renewal notices for 2024 are mailed at the end of December, and the grace period for payment without penalty is April 30. Mail postmarked by April 30 will be considered on time; penalties and/or interest will be assessed beginning May 1, 2024.

The expiration date on the license is January 30, 2024. If you are required to have an updated license for permitting in other locations, please submit your renewal information as soon as possible. Due to high volume during renewal season, the timeline for processing can take 10-14 business days.

Your business adds social, economic, and human value to our community, and we wish each and every one of you much success in the new year. Email any questions to the Occupational Tax Officer at occtax@duluthga.net.

NA NCY SA M U E L Occupational Tax Officer

2 024 O CCUPATION A L TA X R EN EWA L T I M E L I NE RENEWAL LETTERS MAILED

D E C . 31 , 2 02 3

PAYMENT DEADLINE WITHOUT LATE FEE

J AN. 30, 2024

LICENSE EXPIRATION, RENEWAL DUE DATE 6 | DULUTH LIFE

AP R. 30, 2024

INTEREST PENALTY ASSESSED (MONTHLY)

M AY 1 , 2 02 4

LATE FEE ASSESSED

JUN . 1 , 2 02 4

LICENSES DEACTIVATED FOR NON-PAYMENT BEGINS

JUN . 1 5, 2 O 2 4

NOTICE OF VIOLATIONS/ CITATIONS ISSUED

SE P. 1 , 20 24

P U B LI C SA F ET Y A M BAS SA D O RS RES P O NS I B I LI T I ES:

PU BLI C SA F ETY AM BAS SADO R S Are you interested in making a positive impact on your community? The Duluth Police Department is excited to announce a new opportunity for individuals with good communication skills and a desire to serve in Public Safety. We are currently seeking full-time Public Safety Ambassadors to play a crucial role in serving our community.

While this is not a law enforcement position, Public Safety Ambassadors will be able to respond to calls for service that don’t require a Police Officer. As a Public Safety Ambassador, you’ll be the first point of contact for those in need of assistance, providing support and referring city services. The primary goal of the program is to provide a more efficient and effective means of reporting certain calls for service, allowing sworn police officers to focus on policing efforts within the city.

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Stalled/Abandoned Vehicles/Road Hazards

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Traffic Direction

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Monitor Security Cameras

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Private Property Accidents

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Lost/Found Property

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Transportation of Equipment, Message boards, and Trailers

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Standing by for a Wrecker to Tow an Impounded Vehicle

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Minor Property Damage Where No Crime is Alleged

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Animal Calls for Lost or Found Pets

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Community Outreach Events

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Other Calls of a Non-Emergency, Low-risk Nature

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And more!

SAFETY AM BAS SA DORQI NSUCALULI FDIEC AT( B UI OTNSNOT

H OW T O APPLY Interested in becoming a Public Safety Ambassador? Visit www.duluthpd.com for job requirements and application details.

Q UEST IONS? For any questions about this job opportunity, please email CommunityOutreach@DuluthPD.com.

LI M I T ED T O ) : •

Be 18 years old or above

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Possess a High School Diploma or GED

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Hold a valid Georgia driver’s license

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Successfully pass an interview, background check, psychological examination, polygraph test, and drug screening

N O T E:

This is a non-law enforcement position, and Public Safety Ambassadors will be unarmed.

DULUTH LIFE | 7

S TRE A M S A N D BUFF E RS A N D E ASE M EN TS . . .

Oh My!

Many folks living in Duluth have a stream or drainage way running through their property. Some of these are courtesy of Mother Nature, while others are courtesy of your developer/builder or the City of Duluth’s drainage infrastructure system.

What exactly does it mean to have a stream running through my property?

If your property has a stream running through it, it also has a stream buffer. A buffer is an undisturbed natural strip of land along the waterway that serves three main functions.

First, the buffer protects the stream from adjacent land uses so that they do not encroach into the waterway.

Second, it improves water quality by cleaning pollutants from stormwater runoff before it reaches the stream. It also slows stormwater runoff before it reaches the stream, allowing it to infiltrate into the soil, reducing the speed and volume of water, and thereby reducing the potential for erosion and flooding.

Third, the buffer protects delicate habitats and ecology that thrive in and around the stream environment.

How do I know where my buffer is?

Duluth’s buffers are measured from the top of the stream bank. In Duluth, our undisturbed stream buffers are 50’ from the top of the stream bank, with an additional 25’ setback where all impervious surfaces are prohibited.

8 | DULUTH LIFE

What can I do (or not do) to my buffer?

Buffers are only effective if they remain undisturbed. That means you cannot remove trees from or place permanent structures (such as decks, sheds, walls, or fences) within the buffer limits. Doing so will compromise the buffer. If enough people do so, the problem compounds and could lead to flooding, severe erosion, loss of stream habitat, and degradation of the stream and its water quality. It also leads to fines and requests for corrective action from the City as buffer impacts (without an approved variance from the City) are illegal. The first 50’ of the buffer cannot be disturbed or trimmed of vegetation, nor can it be home to permanent structures. The next 25’ cannot have permanent structures erected within it.

What if my buffer is disturbed?

Many property owners unknowingly disturb their stream buffers. Once the City is aware of a buffer encroachment, it is our obligation to make sure the situation is rectified. There are ways to reestablish your buffer after a disturbance.

First, you must remove any permanent structures such as walls, fences, decks, and sheds. Then, you will need to stabilize the ground and replant the buffer. The new growth will take years to function fully, but some improvements will be immediate. If enough property owners work to reestablish their buffers, they can repair stream damage, such as downstream flooding and erosion, over time. Your downstream neighbors will thank you.

The GA Department of Community Affairs has an excellent resource to help property owners reestablish their backyard buffers.

We encourage you to check it out by scanning the QR code here!

What if the waterway in my yard is not a buffered stream?

Not all waterways are streams. Some are ditches or swales put in place to drain the land and/or allow an outfall for the City’s drainage systems. Ditches and swales are open channels that typically convey water from one stormwater system to another. They do not have buffers. They can be public, private, or a combination of both. They can lead from closed (underground) systems to natural streams and waterways or from one natural or open system to another.

What do I need to know about having a drainage ditch in my yard?

If you have a ditch on your property, it is your responsibility to maintain it and keep it well-graded, stabilized, and clean, whether it is private (yours or your HOA’s) or public (the City’s). If the ditch has an easement around it, you may not plant trees or erect permanent structures in that easement.

The easement is there to allow for access and possible maintenance (if underground structures are also present).

The easement may be public (dedicated to and accepted by the City) or private (maintained by your HOA).

Do I have to maintain all of the drainage easement in my yard, even if I do not see a ditch?

The drainage easement is still your property. It just comes with some restrictions. If you do not see a ditch, your plat will likely indicate there is a drainage pipe under the ground along that easement. In this case, you still need to maintain the property and keep from erecting permanent structures or trees within the easement. If a pipe needs maintenance, the City will inspect and repair it, provided it is a public structure.

Some neighborhoods have private drainage infrastructure that the City does not have access to and does not maintain.

In that case, your HOA will maintain and repair underground pipes. The pipe will usually end at a headwall or flared end section and may outfall/daylight into a ditch or a stream.

This is the point where the closed system becomes an open channel (or open system) and where the property owner takes over the maintenance.

How do I know if I have a drainage easement?

When you purchased your property, you likely received a plat. All recorded easements should be shown on that plat.

Generally, drainage easements are shown on your plat as “DE”, and they are typically 10’ or 20’ wide. Of course, there are exceptions to this. Sometimes, a drainage easement (DE) will share space with a sanitary sewer easement (SSE).

Sometimes, an easement (DE or SSE) will be split between multiple properties, with a portion on your land and a portion on your neighbor’s land. And sometimes, an easement (DE or SSE) will change direction or width depending on its use and the location of any infrastructure leading to/from it or under the ground. Check out an example of a plat with a drainage easement above.

What if I have more questions?

If you have a question specific to your drainage easement or stream buffer, please reach out to the Stormwater Department at 770.497.5311 or sw@duluthga.net. We are happy to assist and educate in whatever way we are able.

Clean and healthy waterways are the most important natural resources we have.

If you see trash and debris in the channel, as the property owner, it is up to you to remove and clean up those potential obstructions before they become problematic and block the channel, creating a flood.

DULUTH LIFE | 9

t a c d l Wi

R E N R CO U P C O MI NG PE RF O RMANCE S Duluth High School’s Wildcat Theater invites you to their production of the holiday classic A Christmas Carol based on the novel by Charles Dickens. Catch one of their three performances on Friday, December 8 at 7pm, or on Saturday, December 9 at 3pm and 7pm. This is a lively show for all ages.

ets k c i T t Ge

The following month you can experience the powerful 70’s musical, Godspell. The theater department will perform a shortened one-hour version competition piece for viewing on either January 19 or 21 at 7pm. The full-length production with all the songs will be performed on January 26 and 27 at 7pm.

CTAE S T U DE NT OF THE Y EA R

FOOTBA LL

SaraKay Leatherberry was nominated for her excellence in Healthcare Patient Care Pathway by her teacher Meghan Fowler and Dr. Davidson.

Duluth Football was named the High 5 Team of the Week at the end of August and this season marks the first 3-0 start for the Wildcats since 1985.

HISPAN IC HERITAGE M ON TH TAILGATE September 15: Student groups HoPE and Juntos worked with the Parent Center to host our 2nd Annual Hispanic Heritage Tailgate to kick off Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15th to October 15th).

TEACHER OF TH E Y E A R Kelly Lamelas was honored as our 2023-2024 Teacher of the Year.

PA RKS A ND RE CR E ATIO N STAFF Director – Kathy Marelle Assistant Director of Recreation – Jason Rogers Assistant Director of Parks – John Keating Assistant Director of Athletics – Brandon Davis

Program Department Beth Anne Woodruff Will Marvel

Parks Craig Corley Kevin Hayes Blake Birdsong Garin Butler

PARKS AND RE CR E ATIO N A DVIS ORY B OAR D Alexis Server David Jones Mark Carter Janice Wheeler Sharon Parris Mary Odum Ryan Marcinik Curt Lindner Annette Mcintosh

SEE A PROGR AM You Like?

ACTIVIT Y Guide

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Z U M BA BA L L E T & DA NC E F I T NES S & YO GA R I S E F L AG F O O T BA L L E NR I C H M E NT C O U R S ES J U NI O R /T E E N T E NNI S A D U LT T E NNI S P I C K L E BA L L AC T I V E A D U LT E V E NT S

Want to register right now? Simply take out your smart phone and scan this QR Code to automatically be sent to our registration page!

DULUTH LIFE | 11

ACTIVITY GUIDE

Z U M BA F I T & FA B U LO U S !

It is never too late to start working out again! This class is geared toward people 50+ and will improve your heart, stretch muscles and get your body moving.

Fee: Resident: $35, Non-resident: $40 4-Week Session. No Class December 22, 25; January 15

Z U MBA ( 18 & UP)

The Zumba program fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away.

Our goal is simple: we want you to want to work out, to love working out and to get hooked. Zumba Fanatics achieve long-term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exciting hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life!

Fee (1 class/week): Resident: $35, Non-resident: $45 Fee (2 classes/week): Resident: $55, Non-resident: $65 6-Week Session.

DAYS

T I ME

DAT ES

LOCATION

Thurs

7:00 - 8:00 pm

Jan 18 - Feb 22

Bunten

Sat

9:30 - 10:30 am

Jan 20 - Feb 24

Bunten

Thurs

7:00 - 8:00 pm

Mar 7 - Apr 11

Bunten

Thurs

9:30 - 10:30 am

Mar 9 - Apr 13

Bunten

12 | DULUTH LIFE

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

LO C ATI O N

Mon/Wed/Fri

9:00 - 10:00 am

Jan

Bunten

Mon/Wed/Fri

9:00 - 10:00 am

Feb

Bunten

Mon/Wed/Fri

9:00 - 10:00 am

Mar

Bunten

Mon/Wed/Fri

9:00 - 10:00 am

Apr

Bunten

ACTIVITY GUIDE

BALLET & DANCE TI N Y BA LL ERINA AND ME BALLE T (AGE 2 WI T H PAR ENT PARTICIPATION)

This class is designed for the youngest ballerina to become accustomed to the structure of a ballet class while having the comfort of a parent present. The curriculum is similar to the 3-5-year-old ballet class. The goal is for the ballerina to have learned basic ballet skills and be confident in a class without their parent.

Fee: Resident: $39, Non-resident: $49 6-Week Session. No Class January 14; February 16, 18; April 6, 8

DAYS

T I ME

DAT ES

LOCATION

Sat

9:00 - 9:30 am

Jan 6 - Feb 17

Bunten

Sat

9:00 - 9:30 am

Mar 2 - Apr 13

Bunten

BA LLET/ TA P/ J A Z Z (AG E S 6 -10 )

This ballet/tap/jazz combination class is designed to develop coordination, musicality, flexibility and strength while having fun.

Fee: Resident: $54, Non-resident: $64 6-Week Session. No Class January 14, February 18, April 8

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

LO C ATI O N

Thurs

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Jan 4 - Feb 8

Bunten

Thurs

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Feb 29 - Apr 11

Bunten

FA I RYTAL E BAL LE T (AGES 3-5)

Our Fairytale Ballet class is designed to capture your child’s imagination.

Your child will learn the fundamentals of ballet with this creative themebased class. We strive to constantly keep your child engaged and have a creative learning experience every week.

Fee: Resident: $54, Non-resident: $64 6-Week Session. No Class January 14; February 16, 18; April 6, 8

DAYS

T I ME

DAT ES

LOCATION

Sat

9:35 - 10:20 am

Jan 6 - Feb 17

Bunten

Thurs

5:00 - 5:45 pm

Jan 4 - Feb 8

Bunten

Sat

9:35 - 10:20 am

Mar 2 - Apr 13

Bunten

Thurs

5:00 - 5:45 pm

Feb 29 - Apr 11

Bunten

DULUTH LIFE | 13

ACTIVITY GUIDE

YO GA 10 1 (AG E S 18+)

FITNESS & YO GA

New to yoga? Our 4-week Yoga 101 series is designed to help you safely start a yoga practice and understand more about incorporating yoga into your daily life. Classes will focus on safety and alignment, using props, coordinating breath with movement, and practicing mindful relaxation.

Fee: Resident: $49, Non-resident: $59 4-Class Session. No Class January 15

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

L O C ATI O N

Mon

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Jan 8 - Feb 6

Bunten

Mon

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Feb 19 - Mar 11

Bunten

Mon

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Mar 25 - Apr 15

Bunten

P OWER YO GA (AG E S 18+)

Power Yoga focuses on building strength, endurance and burning calories!

With an emphasis on flowing from one pose to the next, power yoga moves at a more challenging pace while linking your breathing to the different motions of your body. A power yoga class may seem more like an aerobics or dance class and less like a relaxed one. Power yoga still requires mindfulness and focus on the breathing patterns of traditional vinyasa flow yoga.

Fee: Resident: $49, Non-resident: $59 6-Class Session. No Class December 28, January 15

YOGA FOR S ENIO RS (AGE S 55+)

Increase your flexibility, mobility and balance using poses, breathing techniques and props in this class for adults 50+. Chairs will be available for support while sitting or standing. You can choose between Tuesday or Thursday or you can take both the Tuesday and Thursday classes.

Fee (1 class/week): Resident: $24, Non-resident: $29 Fee (2 classes/week): Resident: $48, Non-resident: $58 4-Week Session.

DAYS

TI ME

DAT ES

LOC ATION

Tues

10:00 - 11:00 am

Nov 28 - Jan 2

Bunten

Thurs

10:00 - 11:00 am

Nov 30 - Dec 28

Bunten

Tues

10:00 - 11:00 am

Jan 9 - Feb 6

Bunten

Thurs

10:00 - 11:00 am

Jan 11 - Feb 8

Bunten

Tues

10:00 - 11:00 am

Feb 20 - Mar 11

Bunten

Thurs

10:00 - 11:00 am

Feb 22 - Mar 21

Bunten

14 | DULUTH LIFE

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

L O C ATI O N

Wed

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Jan

Bunten

Wed

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Feb

Bunten

Wed

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Mar

Bunten

Wed

6:00 - 7:00 pm

Apr

Bunten

R ISE F LAG FO O T BA LL C O M ES TO DU LU T H, GA BRIN G IN G C OMP E TI TI V E F U N TO BU N T E N R OA D PA R K !

Calling all young athletes in Duluth, Georgia! Get ready to experience the excitement and thrill of competitive flag football as Rise Flag Football makes its grand debut at Bunten Road Park in January 2024.

With a mission to create a vibrant and inclusive community, Rise Flag Football is set to revolutionize youth sports in the area.

As a brand-new organization, Rise Flag Football is eager to make its mark by providing a top-notch flag football experience for children from Pre-K to 8th grade. Emphasizing the values of teamwork, sportsmanship and personal growth, this co-ed league welcomes participants of all skill levels to join the action-packed fun.

One exciting aspect that sets Rise Flag Football apart is its commitment to outfitting players in Under Armour-sponsored uniforms. Every young athlete will feel like a professional as they take the field in high-quality, stylish uniforms, boosting their confidence and adding to the overall excitement of the game.

But Rise Flag Football is not just about the competition; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and community engagement. With a strong focus on being heavily involved in the local community, Rise Flag Football aims to create a fun and supportive atmosphere for young athletes. Beyond the games, the organization will organize special events, community outreach programs and educational workshops to enhance personal development both on and off the field.

So mark your calendars and get ready to witness the rise of youth flag football in Duluth, GA. Rise Flag Football at Bunten Road Park is set to ignite the local sports scene starting January 26, 2024. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity for your child to be a part of the action!

For registration information and to learn more about Rise Flag Football, visit uariseflag.com or contact duluth@uariseflag.com. Let’s rise together and make flag football in Duluth legendary!

Starting on January 26 and running through March 8, Rise Flag Football games will light up the Friday night skies at Bunten Road Park. This prime time slot guarantees an electric atmosphere, allowing friends, families, and the local community to come together and cheer on the rising stars of Duluth.

DULUTH LIFE | 15

ACTIVITY GUIDE

ENRI C H M E NT CO U RSES

MEDIC A RE C A N B E A MAZE ! LE ARN HOW T O N AVIGAT E MED ICAR E PLANS Is Medicare puzzling? For most people, the answer is yes. This course assists the attendee in understanding the many facets and particulars of Medicare. You will gain a foundation of Medicare Part A, Part B, Part C (Medicare Advantage) and Part D (Prescription Drug Plan) and Medigap plans (aka Medicare Supplement plans). Areas include: when and how to apply, how it interacts with private insurance, deductibles and what factors to consider in choosing the right plan. The course will also cover whether you should contribute to your HSA account after you move to Medicare.

Additionally, we explore how to evaluate if you should stay on an employer plan at age 65 or move to Medicare and continue working at your employer (did you know this is a growing trend?) and how your Medicare choices/costs affect your retirement funds.

This is an education-only course provided by Robert Cox, RICP© CFF© “The Retirement Educator,” a Retirement Strategies Specialist and Certified Financial Fiduciary.

DAYS

T IME

DAT ES

LOCATION

Tues

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Nov 14

Bunten

Sat

10:00 - 11:00 am

Nov 18

Bunten

Tues

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Feb 20

Bunten

Note: Course is free but registration is still required to ensure adequate class materials are prepared for class.

16 | DULUTH LIFE

B ES T AGE T O S TA RT YO U R S O C I A L SE CUR IT Y B EN EF I T S Each person’s situation is different. This course is a great resource for anyone who plans to retire in the next 15 years. Topics include: how your benefits are calculated, what COLAs are and how they’re calculated.

We explore spousal and ex-spousal benefits, survivor benefits, potential taxation of benefits, early retirement and delayed retirement strategies.

It’s possible to increase your lifetime benefits by over $125,000 or more with the right strategy. Attend only one session.

This is an education-only course provided by Robert Cox, RICP© CFF© “The Retirement Educator” a Retirement Strategies Specialist and Certified Financial Fiduciary.

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

L O C ATI O N

Tues

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Nov 28

Bunten

Tues

6:30 - 7:30 pm

Jan 30

Bunten

Sat

11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Feb 3

Bunten

Note: Course is free but registration is still required to ensure adequate class materials are prepared for class.

A N N U I T I ES 10 1 – P ERS O NA L P ENS I ON OR SA F E GROWT H

Annuities can deliver safe growth or lifetime income and are an excellent tool for many people, but is it right for you? In this educational–only seminar, you will learn more about different annuity types: Immediate, Deferred, Fixed Index and Variable Annuities. We will evaluate the pros and cons of different annuities and how they best fit an individual’s retirement needs.

Additionally, you will learn how to identify market risk vs. no-market risk annuities, lifetime income riders, enhanced benefits, surrender charges and surrender periods, and free annual withdrawal percentages. Also, examine LTC riders; some double the yearly income payouts.

Instructor: Robert Cox a Retirement Strategies Specialist and Certified Financial Fiduciary

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

L O C ATI O N

Thurs

6:30 - 7:30 pm

April 23

Bunten

Note: Course is free but registration is still required to ensure adequate class materials are prepared for class.

MINIMIZING TAXES IN RE TIRE ME NT

For middle-income and higher-income households, taxes are likely to be one of your highest yearly expenses. We explore how drawing down your IRAs or 401ks (voluntarily or thru RMDs) creates taxable income, thus making your Social Security Benefits more taxable (aka The Social Security Tax Trap).

You will learn how the Provisional Income calculation determines how much your Social Security benefits are taxable. We demonstrate the value of a ROTH IRA and how if used correctly can mitigate the taxation of your Social Security Benefits. Learn “Tax Bracket Harvesting” and how that is key to efficient ROTH IRA conversions. Also, we cover what happens when one spouse passes and the tax/financial implications for surviving spouse.

This education-only course is provided by Robert Cox, RICP© CFF© “The Retirement Educator,” a Retirement Strategies Specialist and Certified Financial Fiduciary.

D U LU T H S O C C ER AC A D EM Y

Duluth Soccer Academy is proud to partner with the City of Duluth Parks and Recreation! We are excited to offer various opportunities to kids as young as two to learn and play the game of soccer in a safe and fun environment.

JUN IOR ACADEM Y (AG ES 2-1 2) This is a 6-week program with 1-hour sessions once a week designed to foster player development on Saturdays or Sundays. Multi-program and multi-family member discounts are available Fee: Starting at $85

DAYS

TI ME

DAT ES

L OCATION

Thurs

6:30 - 7:30 pm

April 9

Bunten

Note: Course is free but registration is still required to ensure adequate class materials are prepared for class.

RECREATION AL SOCCER L E AG U E (AG ES 4-11) Duluth Soccer Academy is proud to offer a recreational soccer league for ages 4-11. For more information on league play dates and times, visit DuluthSoccerAcademy.org.

For questions, please contact DSA at info@duluthsocceracademy.org or call 770.847.7162.

DULUTH LIFE | 17

ACTIVITY GUIDE

JUNIOR/TEEN

T EN NI S WINTER

YO U T H T ENN I S (AG E S 8-14)

Learn basic stroke production and how to keep score. A student may take this class several times as lesson plans will change from session to session and new skills will be added.

Fee: Resident: $70, Non-resident: $80 6-Week Session.

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

L O C ATI O N

Mon

5:30 - 6:30 pm

Jan 8 - Feb 12

Bunten (Kenny)

Mon

5:30 - 6:30 pm

Feb 26 - Apr 1

Bunten (Kenny)

I 9 S P O RTS i9 Sports is committed to Helping Kids Succeed in Life Through Sports®. All programs are designed to be fun and convenient for busy families, as all programs are one day per week with practice and games back-to-back. Programs are offered year-round at Bunten Road Park and, based on the season, include t-ball/baseball, soccer, basketball and after-school multi-sport clinics. Boys and girls ages 3-15 are taught sportsmanship values alongside skills and drills every week. I9 Sports focuses on FUN and safety, The Way Youth Sports Should Be®. For more details about the programs offered at Bunten Road Park, please visit the City of Duluth website at duluthga.net and check out the Athletics tab under Parks & Recreation.

J U N IOR US TA For information about USTA Leagues, visit: tennislink.usta.com

“ L I L S P ORT ” I TE NNIS (AGE S 4-7 )

Introduction to tennis in a fun, professional environment.

Fee: Resident: $55, Non-resident: $65 6-Week Session. January 15 or February 20

Register: i9sports.com

DAYS

TI ME

DAT ES

LOC ATION

Mon

4:45 - 5:30 pm

Jan 8 - Feb 12

Bunten (Kenny)

Mon

4:45 - 5:30 pm

Feb 26 - Apr 1

Bunten (Kenny)

18 | DULUTH LIFE

For questions, call 470.655.6370.

ACTIVITY GUIDE A D ULT INT ERME D IATE TE NNIS (AGES 18+) Drills to improve strokes, stamina and playing strategies.

Fee: Resident: $70, Non-resident: $80 6-Week Session. No Class September 4

DAYS

T IME

DAT ES

LOCATION

Mon

7:30 - 8:30 pm

Jan 8 - Feb 12

Bunten (Ben)

Mon

7:30 - 8:30 pm

Feb 26 - Apr 1

Bunten (Ben)

ADU LT

TEN NIS WINTER

S E NIOR ROUND R O B IN PLAY (AGE S 50 +) Join us as we play round-robin tennis all year round.

Annual Fee: Resident: $30, Non-resident: $50

DAYS

TI ME

LOCATION

Mon/Wed/Fri

9:30 am - 1:00 pm

Bunten Tennis Courts 3 & 4

Call 770.814.6981 for additional info.

W H AT IS SE NIO R PLAY ?

USTA Senior Leagues – 40+, 55+ & 65+ ALTA Senior Leauges – 45+

A LTA & U STA LE AGU E

For information about ATLA leagues, visit: www.altatennis.org

DULUTH LIFE | 19

ACTIVITY GUIDE P I C K LEBA LL 10 1 (AG E S 18+)

P IC K L E BALL

Intro to Pickleball is a structured, fun class to learn basic strokes, rules and scoring through demonstrations, drills and practice. Learn key fundamentals and develop basic skills, so you’re ready to participate in the sport. Please wear tennis shoes or court shoes. Paddles and balls will be provided. Little to no experience required!

Fee: Resident: $80, Non-resident: $90 4-Week Session.

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

LO C ATI O N

Tues

10:00 - 11:00 am

Jan 3 - Jan 24

Bunten Gym

Tues

10:00 - 11:00 am

Feb 7 - Feb 28

Bunten Gym

Tues

10:00 - 11:00 am

Mar 14 - Apr 4

Bunten Gym

P I C K LEBA LL 10 2 (AG E S 18+)

This skills & drills level 2 pickleball class is for advanced beginners to intermediate players. This class can be repeated as often as the player would like. Clinics will start with warmups and then move on to play situations, skill development and the topic for that week’s class, concluding with gameplay in front of the pro.

Fee: Resident: $80, Non-resident: $90 4-Week Session.

OP EN P LAY PICKLE BALL (AGE S 1 8+)

Come out and enjoy pickleball open gameplay! This is for all skill levels but will not include training time. Players will play round-robin games of pickleball.

Annual Fee: Resident: $30, Non-resident: $50

DAYS

TI ME

LOCATI ON

Mon/Wed/Fri

6:00 - 8:30 pm

Bunten Tennis Courts

Tues/Thurs/Fri

8:30 - 11:00 am

W.P. Jones

20 | DULUTH LIFE

DAYS

TIM E

DATES

LO C ATI O N

Tues

11:15 am - 12:15 pm

Jan 3 - Jan 24

Bunten Gym

Tues

11:15 am - 12:15 pm

Feb 7 - Feb 28

Bunten Gym

Tues

11:15 am - 12:15 pm

Mar 14 - Apr 4

Bunten Gym

ACTIVITY GUIDE B R IDG E L ES S ONS (AGES 50+)

Join the exciting game of Bridge! The 6-week course will teach you gameplay vocabulary, gameplay and strategy.

Fee: Residents: $60, Non-residents: $70 Workbook: $10

DAYS

T IME

DAT ES

LOCATION

Mon

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Jan 8 - Feb 12

W.P. Jones Lodge

Mon

10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Feb 26 - Apr 1

W.P. Jones Lodge

ACT IVE ADULT SIPS, STRO KES, AND SOU P S ( AG E S 5 0+ )

ACTIVE A DULT EV EN T S

Please join us on Friday, February 2 for our Active Adult Luncheon: Sips, Strokes and Soups!

Join in the fun by painting one of several pottery choices. We will supply all the necessary supplies including a buffet luncheon with homemade soups with all the trimmings!

Fee: Residents: $8, Non-residents: $10

AC TIVE A DULT YO UR FAVO RITE TRIVIA ( AG ES 5 0+ )

Please join us on Friday, April 12 for your favorite trivia games! Prizes will be awarded by team!

Fee: Residents: $8, Non-residents: $10

BOOK C LUB ( AGES 50+)

Join us the 4th Wednesday of each month for Book Club at W.P. Jones Lodge. Catering towards those 50+, Book Club will meet at 2:00pm.

There is no charge to join the book club but a reservation is required.

Call 770.814.6981 to register and get more information on what we are reading.

AC T I V E A D U LT GA M ES (AG E S 5 0 +)

RENT Event!

FO R YO UR

Interested in renting out event space for birthday parties, wedding showers, baby showers, etc? The Bunten Road Park Activity Center Large Room and the W.P. Jones Lodge are available for renting! Call 770.814.6981 to find out more information.

If you are privileged to be 50+ and someone who enjoys gameplay competition, this is for you! Join us at the W.P. Jones Lodge every Wednesday and Thursday from 10am-2pm. On Wednesdays, we host various games, including Mahjong, Checkers, Backgammon and Scrabble, to name a few. On Thursdays, we host Social Bridge games.

Annual Fee: Resident: $20, Non-resident: $30 Please register at the Bunten Road Park Community Center office or by calling 770.814.6981. Reservations are required weekly for Social Bridge.

DULUTH LIFE | 21

D U M PS T E R CAR D S To use our dumpster service, you’ll need a City of Duluth Dumpster Card, which must be renewed annually. Cards can be obtained Monday - Friday between 7:30 am and 4:30 pm at the Public Works facility (2450 Main Street). If you still have trips left on your 2023 card, they remain valid until January 28, 2024

Scan Here

Starting from Monday, December 11, 2023, you can apply for your 2024 Dumpster Card by visiting the Public Work Office or by scanning the QR code to the right and completing the online application. If applying in person, please bring a current utility bill or an equivalent monthly statement, such as a mortgage or bank statement, credit card bill, or insurance statement, as proof. Tax bills, if under 60 days old, are also accepted. Driver’s licenses are not valid as proof. If applying online, ensure you attach a recent utility bill when completing the application; you can do this by taking a photo with your smartphone and by scanning it.

DE CE MBER

N OV E MB E R

2 // DECK THE HALL

12 // DULUTH FARMERS & ARTISAN MARKET

16 // COOKIES & COCOA WITH SANTA

26 // DULUTH FARMERS & ARTISAN MARKET

18 // NIGHT AT THE RED CLAY

Learn more at duluthga.net/events

22 | DULUTH LIFE

Don’t miss our monthly live music lineup: DuluthGA.net/DuluthLive

WINTER ACTIVITIES IN DOWNTOWN DULUTH FOR ALL AGES! NOV. 18 Live Ice Carving

NOV. 24 Mini Golf

DEC. 21 Toboggan Tunnel

DEC. 30 Inflatable Wonderland

NOV. 18 Roller Skating

NOV. 26 Whoville Popup

DEC. 22 Toboggan Tunnel

DEC. 31 Noon Years Eve

NOV. 19 Roller Skating

DEC. 10 Winter Games (18+)

DEC. 23 Toboggan Tunnel

JAN. 2 Jack Frost Magic

DEC. 27 Snow Playground

JAN. 2 Live Ice Carving

12-5PM • PARSONS ALLEY

2-6PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

12-6PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

NOV. 20 Roller Skating

4-8PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

2-8PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

2-5PM • PARSONS ALLEY

1-4PM • ACTIVITY LAWN (Registration Required)

DEC. 19 Snow Mazing

NOV. 21 Love the Butterfly

2-8PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

NOV. 22 Love the Butterfly

2-8PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

12-5PM • TOWN GREEN

12-5PM • TOWN GREEN

DEC. 20 Snow Mazing

2-8PM • TOWN GREEN

2-8PM • TOWN GREEN

12-7PM • TOWN GREEN

2-5PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

12-8PM • DOWNTOWN

11AM-1PM • PARSONS ALLEY

4-7PM • PARSONS ALLEY

5-7PM • PARSONS ALLEY

DEC. 28 Snow Slide

4-6PM • ACTIVITY LAWN

DEC. 29 Inflatable Wonderland

Learn More

12-8PM • DOWNTOWN

DULUTHGA.NET/EVENTS

December 2 2-7PM • Downtown Duluth WELCOME TO

WHOVILLE!

Giant Snow Slide Crafts • Live Music

12-5PM • DOWNTOWN DULUTH

Playground BIERGARTEN • OOMPAH MUSIC • AXE THROWINGReal Snow Pictures with Santa COSTUME CONTEST • OKTOBERFEST GAMES

LEARN MORE:

LEARN MORE: DULUTHGA.NET/EVENTS duluthga.net/events

AND MORE!