The following reports were filed by the Gwinnett County Police Department between October 3, 2019 and October 17, 2019.
• Officers responded to forced entry residential burglary calls in the 300 block of Crystal Downs Way in Suwanee, 3400 block of Harvest Ridge Lane in Buford, and 1900 block of Millwater Court in Dacula.
• Nonforced residential burglary was reported in the 500 block of Level Creek Road in Sugar Hill and in the 4100 block of Thompson Mill Road in Buford.
• A nonforced nonresidential burglary occurred in the 5600 block of White Road in Buford.
• Homicide - non family/gun took place in the 5800 block of Kendrix Ridge Drive in Sugar Hill.
• Police responded to calls about sexual battery in the 5000 block of Pass Court (2 reports) and in the 2900 block of Buford Drive in Buford.
• Sodomy occurred in the 3300 block of Coles Creek Drive in Buford.
• A person was arrested for indecent exposure in the 3300 block of Buford Drive.
• Officers responded to the Mall of Georgia in the 3300 block of Buford Drive in regards to a rape that took place.
• Four reports of robbery were filed for the 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford.
• Motor vehicle theft occurred in the 5700 block of Austin Garner Road in Sugar Hill, 3900 block of Shadow Loch Drive in Suwanee, 5600 block of White Road in Buford (2 vehicles), and 2700
block of Sardis Drive in Buford.
• Vehicle break-ins happened in the 3200 block of Buford Highway, 4200 block of Sandy Branch Drive, 4300 block of Sandy Branch Drive, 3100 block of Lauren Nicole Lane, 3200 block of Copper Creek Lane (3 reports), 2700 block of Hamilton Mill Road, 3200 block of Sardis Church Road, 3100 block of Victoria Park Lane, 2200 block of Satellite Boulevard, 1900 block of Satellite Boulevard (2 reports), 3300 block of Buford Drive (2 reports), 3200 block of Buford Drive (4 reports), and 1600 block of Mall of Georgia Drive. Buford addresses.
• Reports for theft by taking were filed for locations in the 6000 block of Cumming Highway in Sugar Hill, 4600 block of Deep Creek Drive in Suwanee, 500 block of West Garner Street in Buford, 4100 block of South Lee Street in Buford, 3900 block of Sudderth Road in Buford, 2500 block of Hamilton Mill Road in Buford, 3400 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 1500 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford, and 2900 block of Buford Drive in Buford.
• Theft by deception occurred in the 5700 block of Cardigan Trace in Sugar Hill, 1700 block of Horizon Parkway in Buford, and 1900 block of Buford Mill Drive in Buford.
• A call about theft of services was responded to in the 3400 block of Ridge Road in Buford.
• Shoplifting took place in the 3300 block of Buford Drive, 1700 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard, and 3200 block of Woodward Crossing Boulevard. Buford addresses.
• 2nd-degree criminal damage to property was reported in the 3200 block of Buford Drive in Buford and in the 1900 block of Lily Stem Trl in Auburn.
• Arrests for DUI were made on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard at Little Mill Road in Buford, 4900 block of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard in Sugar Hill, and Buford Drive at Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford.
• Officers responded to battery calls in the 400 block of Whitehead Road in Sugar Hill, 500 block of Level Creek Road in Sugar Hill, 4100 block of South Lee Street in Buford, and 2100 block of Suttonwood Way in Buford.
• Simple battery was reported in the 5000 block of Bathgate Court in Sugar Hill, 400 block of Thunder Road in Buford, Buford Highway at South Lee Street in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3300 block of Sardis Bend Drive in Buford, 2500 block of Morgan Haven Lane in Buford, and 1900 block of Lily Stem Trail in Auburn.
• Police filed reports for simple assault in the 3400 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 4300 block of Blue Smoke Trail in Hoschton.
• Aggravated assault with a knife or cutting tool occurred in the 500 block of Clover Drive and in the 2900 block of Buford Drive. Buford addresses.
• Police filed a report for aggravated assault with a gun for a location at Braselton Highway & Hamilton Mill Road in Buford and a report was filed for aggravated assault - other weapon in the 5000 block of Columbus Court in Auburn.
Investigation results in arrest for 26 counts of sexual exploitation of children
Staff Reports
Flowery Branch man charged with 26 counts of sexual exploitation of children.
On October 17 a search warrant was executed at the home of Steven Joseph Robertson, 27, located on Compass Drive in Flowery Branch. Investigators seized multiple electronic devices from the residence that were reportedly used to obtain 26 videos of children engaged in sexually explicit conduct with adults. The release states Robertson allegedly uploaded the videos between May and June of 2019.
The case remains under investigation by the Sheriff’s Office and Georgia ICAC Task Force.
Restaurant Inspections
The following restaurant health inspection scores were pulled from the Georgia Department of Health from October 5, 2019 to October 22, 2019.
• Arbor Terrace at Hamilton Mill; 3581 Braselton Highway, Dacula; 97
• Arbor Terrace at Hamilton Mill Independent Living; 3577 Braselton Highway, Dacula; 97
• Dairy Queen Orange Julius Mall of Georgia; 3333 Buford Drive, Suite 1069, Buford; 96
• Firehouse Subs; 3350 Buford Drive, Suite A120, Buford; 91
• Friends House; 3300 Hamilton Mill Road, Suite 110, Buford; ................................................. 90
• Great American Cookies/Marble Slab Creamery; 6323 Grand Hickory Drive, Suite 100E, Braselton; ....................................................................................................................................... 100
• Gyro City; 3465 Braselton Highway, Suite 170, Dacula; 91
• Hacienda Bar & Grill; 1500 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Suite 100, Suwanee, re-inspection 81
• Jack’s Old South BBQ; 6323 Grand Hickory Drive, Suite 100A, Braselton; ........................... 99
• Level Creek Elementary School; 4488 Tench Road, Suwanee; 100
• Longhorn Steakhouse; 2700 Old Winder Highway, Braselton; ................................................ 90
• Luigi’s Pizza Restaurant of Dacula; 2300 Liam Avenue, Suite 211 & 212, Dacula; ................ 81
• Movie Tavern; 2855 Lawrenceville Suwanee Road, Suwanee; 73
October 21, 2019 — Buford Board of Education Chairman Phillip Beard called the October meeting of the Board of Education to order at 7 p.m. at the Buford City Schools Central Office. Following the Pledge, the agenda and September 23, 2019, meeting minutes were approved.
The Board approved old technology from BES, BA, BSA, and BMS to be put into surplus. Three pay requests for the new BHS were approved to be payable to Breaux & Associates, Endless Polls, and FieldTurf USA Inc. Eleven field trip requests, four fundraiser requests, five community service projects, and one new club were presented to the Board. The Board voted to approve all of the requests.
In the principals’ reports, BES reported an enrollment of 375 and 75 daycare. They
Teacher of the year announced for Buford District
Staff Reports
October 23, 2019 – Dr. Robert Downs, Buford City Schools Superintendent, announced the district’s Teacher of the Year today.
The 2020 Buford City Schools Teacher of the Year is Maggie Pruitt, who teaches Special Education at Buford High School. “I do not envy the difficult decision our esteemed panel of judges had to make in selecting who should be the 2020 Teacher of the Year,” Buford City Schools Superintendent Dr. Robert Downs said. “The dedication these outstanding educators show for teaching makes it very clear that this is more than a job for them, it’s their passion.”
Lindsey Allen, Buford High School’s principal, remarked, “Mrs. Pruitt gives
have been celebrating Wolftober this month and will participate in Red Ribbon Week next week. Next month they will have the theme of “Wolves are thankful in November.” BA’s current enrollment is 1,179. BA recently participated in CHOA’s Cape Day, the Fall Festival, testing, and International Night. Next week they will celebrate Red Ribbon Week and show their support of the bus drivers with bus safety. BSA has an enrollment of 805. They also participated in CHOA’s Cape Day, the Fall Festival, held parent conferences, and had plenty of testing. This week they will practice bus safety and next week will participate in Red Ribbon Week. BMS’s current enrollment is 1,222. They recently completed Benchmark testing, Iowa and PSAT testing, Overtime has started, basketball got started, CC will hold awards banquet, Comp Cheer will be at State on November 2, the band recently held their concert at the PAC. Chorus will put on a concert tomorrow night at 7 p.m. at the PAC. BHS has an enrollment of 1,526. Fine Arts have been busy with the play “See How They Run” running for three days at the PAC, One-Act Competition will take place soon, the Fall Chorus Concert is on October 28, and 25 students will participate in Athens for Chorus. Buford was selected for the game show High Q. The Quiz
Bowl team will compete on October 25 but the episode does not air until November 3. Athletics is moving into the postseason. Buford football is ranked #1 in all polls for AAAAA, Volleyball are region champs and will participate in the Elite Eight at home, Softball defeated Ola to make their 15th consecutive appearance at the Elite Eight in Columbus, and Comp Cheer will compete on October 26. Wrestling, basketball, and swimming all got started today.
The Board voted to purchase another school bus at the approximate cost of $72,000 from Yancey. Several major events have been booked for the Arena. On November 21, the Arena will play host to the Red, Blue, & You. First responders will gather to honor late cancer victims. Buford will host basketball playoffs in late February while Buford will host the GHSA State Gymnastics meet for all classifications. Dr. Lacrecia Smith gave a quick update for the Diversity and Inclusion Program.
Mr. Beard went around the room to see if anyone would like to stand up and speak. Four candidates for the two seats are Matt Peevy, Lien Diaz, Melissa Ferris, and Daren Perkins. They each gave a short speech asking for votes. With nothing further, Beard adjourned the October Buford Board of Education meeting.
everything she has not just prepare her students for life after high school, but she pours into them all the love she has to give.”
He added, “This year might be a little tough
Buford City Schools
Twila Minshew – Buford
Laura Laws – Buford Senior Academy
Lauren Larson – Buford Middle School
Maggie Pruitt – Buford High School
for her because she is extremely humble and does not like to have attention on her. We know she will represent our school and district well at the state level.”
L-R Buford City Schools Assistant Superintendent Melanie Reed, Maggie Pruitt and Superintendent, Dr. Robert Downs. Photo - Buford City Schools
Buford High School Principal, Lindsey Allen and Buford’s Teacher of the Year, Maggie Pruitt. Photo - Buford City Schools
The Vote 2019
Staff Reports
The City of Sugar Hill Sugar Hill voters for the Sugar Hill General Municipal Election will cast their ballots at the Sugar Hill Community Center located at 1166 Church St. on Election Day. The municipal voters will elect three seats of the City Council: City Council – Post 1, City Council – Post 2, and City Council – Post 3. City Council – Post 1: Incumbent Brandon Hembree is seeking re-election and has an opponent, Marjorie Prophete.
City Council – Post 2: Incumbent
Meet the candidates running for the 2019 Buford Board of Education
Joseph Parks
The City of Buford and it’s citizens will have an opportunity to cast their ballots on November 5 for two city school board seats that are up for election.
The first of two seats, previously held by Beth Lancaster, has two candidates running for the seat, with Lancaster deciding not to seek re-election due to work obligations.
Matt Peevy, a Buford City School
Marc Cohen is seeking re-election and has an opponent, Amber Chambers.
City Council – Post 3: Incumbent
Susie Gajewski-Walker is running unopposed.
The City of Suwanee Voters for the Suwanee General Municipal Election will cast their votes at Suwanee City Hall located at 330 Towne Center Ave. on November 5.
The municipal voters will elect three seats of the City Council: Mayor, Post 1, and Post 2.
Mayor: Incumbent Jimmy Burnette runs unopposed and is expected to serve the city for the following term. He has been serving as the city’s mayor for the past eight years.
Post 1: Incumbent Doug Ireland is
alumnus and UGA grad, spoke with the North Gwinnett Voice about his family, and the continued growth he sees in the community that he is ready to help with. With his daughter currently in the school system, he is motivated to continue the spirit of excellence within the system’s teachers, and students. Peevy is also looking to expand the budget to keep up with the growth of the schools, as well as, maintain infrastructure and maintenance of the buildings. He wishes for current Buford students to have the same experience he had when he attended.
His opponent, Lien Diaz, is a 14 year resident of Buford, with four children in the school system. She is currently the Director of Educational Innovation and Leadership at Georgia Tech.
seeking re-election and has an opponent, Heather J. Hall.
Post 2: Incumbent Dick Goodman is seeking re-election and has an opponent, Laurence “Larry” Pettiford.
The City of Buford
On November 5, Buford residents who are registered to vote will cast their ballots at Buford City Hall located at 2300 Buford Highway for the Buford General Municipal Election. The municipal voters will elect three seats: the City Commissioner – Post 1, and two School Board Member seats.
City Commissioner – Post 1: City Commission Chairman, Philip Beard, runs unopposed.
Buford Board of Education Seat #1: Incumbent Daren Perkins is seeking
According to her website, she is running for equality and respect for both students and teachers. She couldn’t be reached for comment.
The other seat, currently held by lifelong Buford resident Daren Perkins, is also up for election.
re-election and has an opponent, Melissa Ferris Ozkan.
Buford Board of Education Seat #2: Beth Lancaster who currently holds the seat is not seeking re-election. There are two candidates running to fill the seat, Matt Peevy and Honglien “Lien” Diaz.
Perkins, seeking re-election to his 15th year of service, believes his experience is key to continue the growth and enrichment of the students in the community. On the Buford City School System’s website, it states that he enjoys the long-standing traditions of our community, and “believes staying on forefront of the ever-changing educational climate” is vital to maintaining growth in the school system. Running against him is Melissa Ferris-Ozkan, an occupational therapist with four children, two of whom
are currently in the Buford City School System. Ozkan spoke with NGV about her passion for a diverse community, as well as, within the leadership of the school board. “If you are representing the community, serving everyone in the community is important.” Ozkan added, “Regardless of their background. Everyone deserves a voice.”
An advocate for special education and anti-bullying, Ozkan stated she would like to be hands-on in the growth of our students. Photo unavailable for Ferris-Oskan
The Buford Board of Education elections are being held from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. on November 5, 2019 at Buford City Hall located at 2300 Buford Highway in Buford. Voters must be registered with the State of Georgia to vote.
Peevy Perkins
Diaz
Olivia Lewis
Meet Olivia Lewis, a fifth- grade studentatBufordSenior Academy. Olivia has been selec tedasBSA’s Reader of the Week due to her expressed excitementand enthusiasm forreading.Her teachers this year areDr. Donna Duceattand Ms.SaResa Williams.Olivia is describedbythe BSA media specialist,SaraBlankenship,asa sweetgirland areader
“S he al ways ha sa bo ok ar ou nd ,” Bl an ke ns hi pa dd s.
“S he re al ly en jo ys re ad in ga bo ut al lt he va ri ou sb oo kc ha ra ct ers an df ee li ng li ke sh ei sp ar to ft he st or y. ”
Olivia’s favorite genreofbooks is myster y, but she enjoys fantasy as well; her all-time favorite book is “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire.” When talk ing about the four th installmentofthe Harry Potter series,Oliviashares,“Ienjoyedthe book so much because Itruly felt like Iwas in the book while Iread the stor y.”Olivia also lovesJames Patterson books and explained howhis stories never fail to make herlaugh out loud.
Olivia has no shor tage of favorite stories,but her interestsdon’t just lie in reading and books.New York City is Olivia’s favorite placeinthe worldand she never turns down her favorite meal of spaghetti with Italian sausage.Olivia’s favorite spor tisgymnastics; she is awell-per forming gymnast herself as well as aGirlScout
Olivia workshardand embodies the spirit of being aBufordWolf! Keep up the good work!
Themedia specialists at the BufordSenior Academyand BufordAcademyselectthe BufordCitySchools Reader of the Week Bufordstudents grades first through fifthhaveachanceatbeing named the Reader of the Week.Inaddition to appearing online and in print, the Reader of the Week receives avoucher to Starsand Strikesfor all of their hardwork
Young minds are Georgia’s greatest resource
Staff Reports
BUFORD — In 1992, Gov. Zell Miller launched Georgia’s Pre-K program and approximately 1.6 million children have since enrolled. In 2010, funding for Georgia’s Pre-K program was under threat of being cut with budget shortfalls. In response, several education and child advocacy organizations that year established Georgia Pre-K Week to emphasize and build awareness for the importance of quality early childhood education.
“I believe that these young minds will determine the future course of our community.”
The week, which continues to be proclaimed by a proclamation from the governor, provided opportunities for community leaders to visit Pre-K classrooms across the state to help promote the program that has helped Georgia’s children get a head start on their education.
Georgia State Senator Renee Unterman visited the Discovery Point Learning Center in Buford on Thursday, October 17 in conjunction with Georgia Pre-K Week. Unterman was thrilled to have the opportunity to read to three classrooms full of energetic students ages 3 to 5. The senator said it was great to visit with the staff at Discovery Point and loved seeing the smiling faces of all the students as she read the book - “Llama Llama Red Pajama.”
“Young minds are Georgia’s greatest resource and I appreciate the opportunity to encourage students to love
learning,” said Unterman. Georgia Pre-K Week is one of Unterman’s favorite times of the year, “I enjoy the excitement that children have for learning and I believe that these young minds will determine the future course of our community.”
Unterman added, “It’s important that we have our students ready for kindergarten and first grade, and I appreciate the educators who are helping them grow to be the best that they can be.”
For more information on the Georgia Pre-K Week, visit https:// georgiavoices.org/ pre-k-week/. To learn more about
Sweater Weather
your State Senator Renee Unterman, check out https://reneeunterman.org/ or on Facebook @reneeunterman.
State Senator Renee Unterman enjoyed reading to students at the Discovery Point Learning Center in Buford as part of the Georgia Pre-K Week activities. Special Photo Contributed by John Vaugh
STUDENT WEEK OF THE
brought to you by The City of Buford
Katelyn Klein
Meet Katelyn Klein, asenior at Buford HighSchool. Katelynisthe daughter of Michaeland Ronda Klein andsister to Tyler Klein,a Buford alumni from the class of 2016. After moving from Sacramento, California at the age of three,Katelynhas lived in the state of Georgia for14years and attended Buford CitySchools since her 8thgradeyear
Katelyn is trulyamulti-faceted individual; herskills andaccomplishmentsinacademics, extracurriculars, andathletics are impressiveand indicate howwellroundedshe is. As one of the highestacademically achieving students at Buford HighSchool,her grades andclass rigorare proofofher hardwork and dedication. Throughout highschool,her straight Arecord has never wavered,even after takinga total of 10 AP classes. Because of her impressivegrades, Katelynisa returning memberofNHS andBeta Club, both of whichare intended to honorhigh achieving students
Whenasked about her favoriteschool subject, Katelyn claims thatmath is the best, handsdown “Math is my favorite because Ilike for there to be one specificanswer to any question,”Katelyn says.“I lovepatterns, and I finditsatisfying. Also, thesubject just comesnaturallytome.” It makes perfectsense that herfavorite teacherwould beMrs. MacAdam, Katelyn’s 9th and 11th grade mathteacher.Katelyn explains whyMrs.MacAdamisher favorite, saying, “Mrs. MacAdamismorethanateacher to me; she’s amentor. After havingher for 2yearsinhigh school, Ifeelthat Iknow herand recognize herasnot just a “one year” teacher, but rather as someonewho has taught me my entire high school careerinmultiple ways. ”
In addition to outstandingperformance within the classroom,Katelynalsostands out as athree time statechampion for the Buford Girls Varsity Basketball
12TH GRADE
team.Whenasked abouther team’s success,Kateyln responded humbly,saying,“Winning three state championships is truly ablessing. Thecredit for our accomplishments, however,should be giventoour hard work as ateam,the high standards we hold ourselves to, and the culture withinour program.” Through thisexperience,Katelyn believes shehas grownasanathlete,but also as an individual.
“Winning three state championships is truly ablessing.”
In the past couple of weeks, Katelynhas also been awardedwith the title of NationalHispanicMerit Scholar due to her high PSATscore.AsaHispanic MeritScholar, Katelyn had to meetthe requirements of being¼Hispanic, achievingthe acceptable PSATscore, andhaving acumulative GPAof 3.5 or higher her junior yearofhigh school. Katelynreflects on herachievement with pride, saying, “Being awardedthishonor is honestly amazing.Itisopening alot of opportunities for colleges and scholarshipsthat Iamaimingfor ”
Outside of hercrazy busy school life, Katelyn can be found at home, eatingher favoritefood,watermelon, and watchingmovieswith herbest friends. She also enjoys playing with her pet dog, apug named Bumper.Onthe weekends, Katelyn is mostlikely cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs or,surprisingly, UGA’s main opponent,Alabama. Because the two teamsdon’tplay against one another often, she claims thatshe hasnotrouble being fans of both Allaround, Katelyn is truly anexemplarystudent, athlete,and active memberofthe Buford community Her dedication inevery areaofher lifeprovesthat she will go far; whenshe aims for agoal, she will undoubtedlyachieve it.Katelyn is aBuford Wolf through and through,her involvementinsidethe school and within her community,provingthe Buford tradition of excellence. CLASS
Local Montessori School puts heart into early education
Joseph Parks
The Greater Atlanta Montessori School, newly located in Buford, is shaping the
BCS is working to prepare students for careers in an ever-changing workforce
Alicia Couch Payne
BUFORD — In an ever-changing workforce, it’s a challenge for school systems to adapt their curriculum to properly prepare their students for life after high school. For decades schools shifted gears from offering construction and other skilled labor classes to focus more on college prep. That was fine while those careers that required a college degree were in high demand but the lack of people choosing a skilled labor job like an electrician, plumber, and mason dropped drastically. Today the United States is facing a shortage of skilled labor and schools are once again shifting their curriculum to refocus on offering Career and Technical Education (CTE).
Dr. Amy Chafin, BCS Director of Curriculum & Instruction and CTE Director explained Buford’s CTE program to a select group of local and state dignitaries, community leaders, and BCS staff on October 11 at Buford High School during the BCS CTE Advisory Council Meeting. The CTE Advisory Council is a “collaboration of representatives from business and industry, as well as, representatives from the education community.” Their
young minds of tomorrow.
With a focus on passion and building the foundation for learning, GAMS builds character and confidence in the children that walk through the doors each week. The school prides itself on a low teacher to student ratio, along with year-round education provided for children six months to six years old.
One of the most heartening things about GAMS is Hannah Gentry. She is a career educator with 20 years of experience and is the owner and director of the local school.
The Voice had the opportunity to speak with her about her passion for young minds and giving them a well-rounded education. “I love the children, and their families,” she
said. “I work around the clock to make sure they receive and achieve the best.”
Gentry is very passionate about the Montessori teaching style, as well as the freedom working in private education has given her to stand by her beliefs. “I am a Christian, and I talk to the children about Jesus. We pray before each meal. I do not force them to pray, but allow them the opportunity.”
Gentry also spoke on the importance of working together as a community and hoping for both private and public schools working together to love and educate Buford’s youth. She stated, “It’s not a competition, we’re both wanting the same thing for our children.”
Gentry’s passion for the diverse and
purpose is to provide the school system with input so that the school system develops the best CTE curriculum possible to make their students employable and ready for life after high school.
Dr. Chafin explained the process that Buford has taken to determine what courses to offer their students. Buford High School has 1,136 students that participate in nine CTE Pathways currently offered. Those pathways are Audio-Visual Technology and Film, Carpentry, Financial Services, Graphic Communication, Nutrition and Food Science, Sports and Marketing, Teaching as a Profession, Therapeutic Services/Patient Care, and Therapeutic Services/Sports Medicine. Buford High School also offers several Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSO) for students to join. Those organizations are DECA, FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America), FCCLA (Family, Career, and Community Leaders
growing Buford community reaches beyond education, but to accessibility as well. GAMS has the lowest Montessori school tuition in the city, along with some of the lowest in the state. They also offer an “Apogee School Choice Scholarship” for families of new enrollees. The scholarship is not based on income, which means anyone is eligible.
The Greater Atlanta Montessori School, along with Hannah Gentry, are making a big impact on the young minds within the community of Buford. If you would like to find out more about GAMS and Gentry, please visit gamontessori.com. GAMS is located at 1980 Buford Highway, Buford Ga. 30518, (678) 926-3202.
of America), and Skills USA. Buford City Schools was granted $450,000 in construction-related equipment (CRE) grant funds for the new Buford High School and Buford Middle School. The grant provided necessary funds to purchase large equipment essential for the CTE labs. Following the meeting, Buford High School Principal Lindsey Allen and Assistant Principal Kari McIntyre each led a group of meeting attendees on a tour of the school’s CTE facilities. BHS CTE teachers were on hand in each of the labs to explain their courses and to show the state of the art labs that the CRE grant helped to furnish.
During the tour of Buford High School’s CTE labs, Healthcare Science instructor Ms. Kathy Shirley can be seen telling Mr. Gary Stout, Director of Acute Services with Kaiser Permanente about the “patients” that the CRE Grant helped to purchase for the program.
- Alicia Couch Payne
When the tour was complete it was clear that Buford students are provided
with the very best tools to prepare them for a future career. This is a direct result of the hard work of the Buford City School System staff, the Buford Board of Education, the City of Buford, and the Buford Community. The CTE program at Buford will continue to adapt and grow to suit the job market’s ever-changing needs.
Photo
Hannah Gentry has a passion for educating our community’s children in the Montessori style to give them a firm foundation to be successful later in life. Photo - Greater Atlanta Montessori School
North Gwinnett Cluster Teachers of the Year
Lori
Tschan
- Riverside Elementary
Anoshka Ramkumar
A teacher is someone who is meant to guide and direct their students through their education. In an Elementary school, a teacher’s job is to make sure their students are prepared with the fundamental things they need to succeed in middle and high school, as well as, for the future beyond. Among six North Gwinnett Cluster Teachers of the Year, Ms. Lori Tschan is Riverside Elementary School’s choice. Currently a 4th-Grade teacher, she has taught in Gwinnett County for seven years. Although her first three were as a substitute teacher, that didn’t stop her from winning the hearts of her students.
“My favorite part about teaching is helping students set goals for their learning, and then helping them find manageable ways
Martha
“Deanne”
Manotas - Roberts Elementary
Anoshka Ramkumar
Every day, students are taught the essential subjects they need for a standardized education; Reading, Writing, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Often at times, students are told that these subjects are the only ones that will help them in the future. Ms. Martha “Deanne” Manotas, is Roberts Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. Instead of textbooks and worksheets, Ms. Manotas helps students explore their inner creativity through art. This is her 13th year as an art teacher in Gwinnett County. “My favorite part
to meet those goals. Riverside is a wonderful school with very involved families, knowledgeable staff, and a supportive administration. We all work together to do what is best for all of our students (Lori Tschan)”. Ms. Tschan hopes to continue teaching and to watch as many more students grow and change into a bright new generation.
of teaching is encouraging the students’ creativity and diversity through Art. It is amazing to see the talent each child brings to his/her projects. I get to teach my favorite artists! (Martha “Deanne” Manotas)”. The arts are just as important to a child’s growth and development as other subjects and Ms. Manotas is always dedicated to bringing out the best in her students, both on paper and off.
Lisa VogelLevel Creek Elementary
Anoshka Ramkumar
Early education is vital in a child’s life. It provides the fundamentals they need in order to succeed through the rest of their lives. Out of six total North Gwinnett Cluster Teachers of the Year, Ms. Lisa Vogel is Level Creek Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year.
As a first-grade teacher, she holds the important role of enhancing these fundamental skills in her students. From reading stories and poems to solving math problems, Ms.
Vogel is known for always encouraging her students to try their best and learn new things. This is Ms. Vogel’s 18th year of teaching and her 13th year in Gwinnett County and Level Creek Elementary School.
“Teaching is always what I wanted to do for as long as I can remember. For me it is not a job, it is just who I am. I love that I get to shape young minds each day and watch as they grow and change. I see frustration turn into triumph and I can’t’s turn into I can’s on a daily basis and nothing could compare to that (Lisa Vogel)”.
Rebecca CarlisleNorth Gwinnett High School
Anoshka Ramkumar
As each generation graduates and moves on to college, they look back on their lives as growing young students. What they remember most, are the teachers that helped them make it to the end. Ms. Rebecca Carlisle of North Gwinnett High School is one of six Finalists for the Gwinnett County Teacher of the Year. Ms. Carlisle is a 10th-Grade AP World History teacher at North Gwinnett High School. She has been given the nickname of “Ms. Sunshine” by her fellow teachers and can never be seen teaching her students
without a smile. “I have been teaching for Gwinnett County Schools for 10 years and this is my 6th year at North Gwinnett High School. I love teaching because of the relationships I get to build with the students and their families. I love getting to see the students grow and work through challenges. Teaching at North is an honor and I am so grateful for all of the love and support!!(Rebecca Carlisle)”.
Lori Tschan- Riverside Elementary
Lisa Vogel- Level Creek Elementary
Martha Manotas- Roberts Elementary
Rebecca Carlisle - North Gwinnett High School
High School Post Season Recap
Alicia Couch Payne
It seems like school and the fall sports season just got started but here it is, already time for the postseason. Here’s how your local sports teams are fairing on their quest for postseason success.
Buford
Cross Country - Buford will compete in the Region 8-AAAAA Championships in Helen on October 23.
Softball - For the 15th consecutive year, Buford is making an appearance at the Elite Eight Softball Tournament in Columbus. Their first opponent will be Harris County. On their way to Columbus, Buford had to defeat Riverwood in the first round of state playoffs and then Ola this past week during the second round of playoffs. The Lady Wolves will look to senior Ansleigh Hollifield to lead the team in Columbus. Buford’s season record going into Columbus is 22-9.
Volleyball - Buford clinched the Region 8-AAAAA title on October 10 with a 25-17, 25-7, and 25-14 win over Loganville at Walnut Grove High School. Buford played its first two rounds of the State AAAAA playoffs at home against North Springs and South Effingham. The Lady Wolves would down North Springs in their first match 25-7, 25-12, and 25-7. In their second match, Buford would also beat Effingham with ease with scores of 25-17, 25-10, and 25-11. Buford will move onto the Elite Eight round on Saturday, October 26 at home against the victor in the Kell and Fayette County match. Buford’s overall season record is 27-12.
Lanier
Cross Country - The girls cross country team secured their spot
for the state meet when they finished second at the Region 8-AAAAAA Cross Country Championships on Saturday, October 19 in Winder. Lanier girls took seventh to 11th places at the championships. Katie Kress was the top Lanier girl coming in seventh with Makayla Bowman just behind in eighth.
The boys cross country team also secured their spot at the state meet with a third-place finish at the Region Championships this past Saturday in Winder. The State Championships will be held on November 1-2 at Carrollton High School.
Volleyball - Lanier was eliminated from the State volleyball playoffs in the first round when they lost to Sequoyah. Lanier finished their season with an overall record of 29-16, 6-8.
North Gwinnett
Cross CountryNorth’s boys cross country team qualified for the State Championships with a sixth-place finish at Region. The top finisher for the Bulldogs was Yianni Pothoulakis with an 18th place finish. The girls also qualified for State with a fifth-place finish. Makenna Kulzer was the top finisher for the Lady Bulldogs in 11th. They will head to Carrollton High School on November 1-2 for the State Championships.
Softball - Going into the state playoffs, North was a favorite to do well in postseason play. North was state and nationally ranked going into the postseason with an overall season record of 27-1, 15-0. The Lady Bulldogs were knocked out of postseason play in an upset of a game. Etowah stunned crowds beating North 2-0 in the first game and 8-4 in game two. North ends its season with an overall record of 27-3.
Volleyball - North has made it to the next round of the state playoffs with a win over South Gwinnett this past Saturday in Snellville. North defeated South 25-10, 25-9, and 25-23. The Lady Bulldogs will face Region 4-AAAAAAA’s number one seed Walton in the next round at Walton on Tuesday. They improve to an overall season record of 21-18.
Senior pitcher Ansleigh Hollifield helped to power Buford through to the Elite Eight softball tournament in Columbus. Photo - Alicia Couch Payne
Second half momentum propels Buford past region rival Loganville
Alicia Couch Payne
BUFORD — In the last regular-season home game at Tom Riden Stadium this year, it was fitting that Buford would earn the win against Region 8-AAAAA rival Loganville 30-7. The Wolves were off to a slow start for them as the Red Devils defense held them to just 13 points in the first half. Both touchdowns would come in the first quarter when senior Elijah Turner would run the ball in for 8 yards to score the touchdown for Buford. Loganville would block the extra point. Junior quarterback Jarvis Evans Jr. would score next when he ran the ball in from the 1-yard line. Hayden Olsen earned the PAT. Loganville would hold Buford back from scoring in the second quarter sending Buford into halftime up 13-0.
The Red Devils would be the first to score in the second half when quarterback Tanner Greene would connect with Austin May for a 67-yard touchdown pass at the 4:20 mark in the third quarter. With five seconds left in the third, Olsen would kick a 44-yard field goal to put the Wolves up 16-7 going into the fourth quarter.
It was in the fourth quarter that the momentum picked up for Buford as Erwin would run in two more touchdowns as their defense would give Loganville a hard time. Erwin would end the night with 22 rushes for 171 yards while Turner would add to the rushing game with 19 carries for 151 yards. Evans would complete 7 out of 11 passes for 54 yards.
Buford (8-0, 3-0) will end out their regular season on the road next Friday at Walnut Grove and then on November 8 at Clarke Central.
Elijah Turner (#3) plowed his way through Loganville’s defensive line to accumulate 19 rushes for 154 yards and one touchdown for Buford. Photo - Alicia Couch Payne
Buford sophomore defensive end River Wilson (#51) goes airborne to take down Loganville quarterback Tanner Greene. Photo - Alicia Couch Payne
Friday, October 25, 2019
Mary Howard (Bradford) Barlow , age 79, of Buford, Georgia, passed away on Sunday, October 20, 2019. Mary is preceded in death by her husband Jerry Ray Barlow, and parents James and Runell (Henry) Bradford. She will be greatly missed by her son and daughter-in-law Mike and Kathleen Barlow; daughters and sons-inlaw Pamela and Randy Ward, Cathy and Tom Gaston, Patty Barlow; sister Gloria Crawford; grandchildren Josh Brendle, Chris Barlow, Katelin Warnock, Ethan Brendle, Jeran Ward; and great-grandchildren Tavin Barlow, Maddox Barlow, Ellie Rose Warnock, Nora Warnock, Asher Brendle, and Silas Warnock. Mary served in the nursing field for thirty years, and she will be remembered for her love of dogs, especially her own Pippy. A graveside service was held on Tuesday, October 22, 2019, at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens, in Buford, GA. Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 201 Morningside Dr., Buford, GA. 30518
Jalaine Dollar Smith, age 78 of Buford entered Heaven’s gates and into the arms of Jesus on Saturday, October 19, 2019 following a very courageous battle with cancer.
The youngest of Edith and Boyd Dollar’s three daughters, Jalaine was born on March 1, 1941. She graduated from Buford High School, retired from Buford City Hall and was a member of Buford First Baptist Church. Jalaine is survived by her devoted husband of 58 years, Bill Smith of Buford; daughters and sons-in-law, Jill and Ty Talley, Gainesville, Jana and Karl McCranie, Buford; grandchildren, Emily Talley, Gainesville, Austin McCranie, Atlanta, Mason McCranie, Buford and great-grandson, Tate Talley-Jones, Gainesville; sister, Laverne Kerlin, Buford; sister-in-law, Ann Kemp,
OBITS & SERVICES
Dacula; and cousin and best friend, Regina Marshall, Buford; nephews, Greg Puckett, Bryan Kerlin, Donnie Kemp, Jeff Kemp and Chris Kemp; and nieces, Nena Bruffey, Amy Reed, Joy Pointer and Debbie Maloof. She was preceded in death by her mother and daddy, Edith and Boyd Dollar; mother and father-in-law, Bonnie and Dink Smith; sister, Grace Puckett; brothers-in-law, Donald Kerlin, Forrest Puckett, Gene Kemp and Jack Kemp; and sister-in-law, Julia Kemp. Funeral services were held on Tuesday, October 22, 2019, in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home. Pastor Wayne Johnson officiated. Interment followed at Shoal Creek Baptist Church Cemetery in Buford, GA. Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 S. Lee St., Buford GA 30518
Larry Robert Curson, age 82, of Buford, GA, passed away on October 18, 2019. Larry was a big Ohio State University football fan, who loved hunting and fishing. He served his country in the United States Air Force. Larry was employed for 30 years at Gulf Oil Company. He was a member of the Knights of Columbus and served as their Financial Secretary at the Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Flowery Branch, GA. Larry is preceded in death by his parents, Frank Robert and Ruth Curson and son, Christopher R. Curson. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Marilyn Curson; daughters, Shannan Wassel (Jim), Michelle Curson (Angela); brother, Jack Curson (Bev); grandchildren, Brett Barger. Makenzie Curson and Carter Curson. The family will hold a private Celebration of Life Service at a later date. Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 201 Morningside Dr., Buford, GA. 30518
Lonnie Ray Reed, age 62, of Jefferson, GA passed away Sunday, October 13, 2019. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Tammy Faye Reed; parents, Clyde and Loyce Davis Reed; brothers, Jimmy Reed, Wesley Reed, Tim Reed; Mr. Reed is survived by his wife of forty-three years, Rita Cleghorn Reed, Jefferson, GA; children, Daniel and Misty Reed, Pendergrass, GA, Christopher Reed, Jefferson, GA, Jennifer and Josh Angel, Jefferson, GA; grandchildren, Holly Angel, Tammi Angel, Tyler Reed; sisters, Sue Reed Farr, Buford, GA, Sandra Reed Thompson, Dacula, GA, Sheila Reed; brother and sister-inlaw, David and Debra Reed, Suwanee, GA; sister-in-law, Sara Lee Reed, Buford, GA; several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Reed was born on August 30, 1957, in Buford, GA. He was a 1975 graduate of North Gwinnett High School. Mr. Reed was employed with U.S.A. Production Parts as a purchasing agent for twenty-seven years. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather and brother and will be greatly missed by family and friends who
knew him. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, October 16, 2019, in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home. Rev. Danny Newbern officiated. Interment was at Sardis United Methodist Church Cemetery, Buford, GA. Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 S. Lee St., Buford GA 30518
Gerald Cary Wood, age 81, of Buford, GA passed away Monday, October 14, 2019. He is survived by his wife of eighteen years, Laverne Brackett Wood, Buford, GA; stepdaughter, Gayla Parks, Flowery Branch, GA. A memorial service will be held at his residence in Buford at a later date, for his family and friends.
Bryan Taylor, age 51, of Buford, GA passed away Sunday, October 20, 2019. He was preceded in death by his brother, Brandon Reid Taylor. Mr. Taylor is survived by his wife of thirty-two years, Angela Mohler Taylor, Buford, GA; daughters, Amber Nicole Taylor, Buford, GA, Victoria Mae “Tori” Taylor, Flowery Branch, GA; grandchild, Brayden Taylor; mother, Geneva Saxon Taylor, Buford, GA; father, Jim Taylor, Snellville, GA; brothers and sisters-inlaw, Billy and Robbi Dasher, Dacula, GA, Bradley and Jade Taylor, Snellville, GA; sister, Ronda Ann Plemmons, Grayson, GA; and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Taylor was born August 17, 1968 in East Point, GA. He received his education in the Gwinnett County Public School System. Mr. Taylor was an employee of UPS for a number of years as a former driver.
