Buford students advance to Odyssey of the Mind World Finals
Jessica Wilson
BUFORD - A self-propelled train, an epic quest, a balsa wood structure and months of teamwork are carrying Buford students to the global stage.
Four teams from Buford City Schools have advanced to the 2026 Odyssey of the Mind World Finals, set for May 2730 at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa. The international competition brings together student teams from around the
world to present creative solutions to open-ended problems.
Buford’s teams earned their spots after a strong tournament season that began at the regional level. In March, 14 Buford teams representing grades one through eight competed at the regional tournament at Cherokee Bluff High School. Eight advanced to the Georgia State Finals in Columbus, where four qualified for World Finals.
Odyssey of the Mind challenges students to solve longterm problems that often combine engineering, storytelling,
performance and design. Teams spend months developing their solutions before presenting them at competition. They also compete in spontaneous problem-solving, where they must respond quickly to an unknown challenge without outside help.
For Buford, this year’s success reflects both the growth of the program and the persistence of the students involved.
Buford High School’s ‘The Hunchback of Notre Dame’ delivers powerful, immersive performance
BUFORD - The bells of Notre Dame echo through the famed cathedral in 15th-century Paris as Buford High School’s production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” opens.
At the center of the story is Quasimodo, the deformed bell ringer who longs to be “out there.” Held captive
by his manipulative caretaker, Archdeacon Dom Claude Frollo, Quasimodo watches from above as the city celebrates the Feast of Fools. When he escapes for one day and joins the crowd, his brief freedom quickly turns cruel. He is mocked by the public and spared only through the kindness of Esmeralda, a Roma-
See HUNCHBACK Page 9
Photo courtesy of Buford High School.
Vincenzo Fuoco performs during Buford High School’s production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame.”
Kelli Sierra
Photo courtesy of Buford Ciy Schools.
Buford Senior Academy Odyssey of the Mind team members, from left, Jaemin Shin, James Gunter, Ethan Moon, Teo Park and Issac Marion, present their “Off the Rails” performance. Coached by Sam Marion, the third-grade team advanced to the 2026 World Finals.
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I still believe politics is supposed to be about people.
Not parties. Not power. Not who can shout the loudest, post the sharpest insult or tear down the person standing on the other side of a ballot.
Somewhere along the way, too many campaigns forgot that public service should begin with respect. When politics loses that, it stops looking like leadership
As voters head toward the May 19 primary, the final days of campaigning have brought more than speeches, signs and policy debates. They have brought reminders of how personal politics can become and how quickly campaigns can lose sight of the people involved.
Republican candidate Edwin Duncan recently called for civility after many of his campaign signs were removed or damaged along local roadways. In a social media post, Duncan said that kind of behavior is exactly why so many people are turned off from politics.
He is right.
A campaign sign is not just a piece of plastic stuck in the ground. It represents someone’s time, money, courage and belief in a cause. It represents volunteers who gave up evenings, families who stood behind a candidate and voters who still believe their voices matter.
Destroying or removing signs does not make a candidate stronger. It does not make an argument better. It does not strengthen democracy. It weakens it.
ISSN: 2996-0177
Politics should still be about people
The same is true when politics becomes personal in uglier ways.
Current District 100 state Rep. David Clark, who is now running for lieutenant governor, recently responded to a social media post from the campaign team of his Republican opponent, Greg Dolezal, after Clark said the post mocked a speech impediment disability he has had since birth.
“What kind of man mocks a disability and calls himself a leader?” Clark asked. That question should stop all of us for a moment.
Clark said he is not a victim, but an overcomer. That matters. But no one should have to defend their humanity in the middle of a political campaign. No one should have to remind others that a disability, hardship, personal struggle or visible difference is not fair game for ridicule.
Politics should be tough. Candidates should be questioned. Records should be examined. Promises should be challenged. Voters deserve honest debate, and public service should come with accountability. But there is a difference between accountability and cruelty.
There is a difference between disagreement and disrespect.
There is a difference between fighting for your values and forgetting the value of the person standing across from you.
That difference matters, especially at the local level.
Local politics may happen on a smaller stage, but it affects our daily lives in some
of the biggest ways. These are the people making decisions about roads, schools, taxes, public safety, development, business growth and the future of our communities.
The tone of these campaigns matters because the people involved do not disappear when the election ends.
After the signs are picked up, after the speeches are over and after the votes are
“Maybe the question should not only be who has the strongest platform, the most signs or the loudest supporters. Maybe we should also ask who has the heart to lead.”
counted, we still have to live here together.
We still pass each other at school events, grocery stores, church services, ball fields, restaurants and community meetings.
Campaigns end. Communities remain.
That should matter to every candidate, every campaign worker, every supporter and every voter.
Heart in politics does not mean weakness. It does not mean avoiding hard
Jessica Wilson | Publisher/Managing Editor jessica@northgwinnettvoice.com
Sharon Stewart | Community editor@northgwinnettvoice.com
Ashton Senter | Crime ashton@northgwinnettvoice.com
Alicia Payne | Copy Editor editor@northgwinnettvoice.com
Kelli Sierra | Buford staff@northgwinnettvoice.com
Grace Anne Johnson | Sugar Hill graceannejohnson@gmail.com
Victoria Baker | Advertising advertise@northgwinnettvoice.com
conversations. It does not mean refusing to challenge a voting record, question a policy position or hold an elected official accountable.
It means remembering why public service exists in the first place.
It means choosing decency when division would be easier.
It means criticizing ideas without mocking disabilities.
It means debating policies without destroying property.
It means recognizing that every candidate, whether you support them or not, is still a person with a family, a story and a reason they stepped forward.
We need more good people willing to serve. But if politics becomes nothing more than personal attacks, online insults and petty behavior, fewer good people will be willing to run.
That should concern everyone.
The strength of a community is not measured only by who wins an election. It is measured by how we treat one another during the process.
As voters prepare to cast ballots in the May 19 primary, maybe the question should not only be who has the strongest platform, the most signs or the loudest supporters.
Maybe we should also ask who has the heart to lead.
- Jessica Wilson
Health inspection scores for restaurants and food service establishments in Buford, Flowery Branch, Suwanee and Sugar Hill during April 2026 showed a wide range of results, from multiple perfect scores to a handful of low-performing locations, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health.
100 (A)
12 Lunar — 3385 Buford Drive, Buford
37 Main - A Rock Cafe — 37 E. Main St. NE, Buford Atlanta Falcons MKS — 4400 Falcon Parkway, Flowery Branch
Billy Beez at the Mall of Georgia — 3333 Buford Drive, Suite 1105B, Buford
Chick-fil-A Suwanee Road — 3156 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee
E Bubble Cafe — 2855 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suite 710, Suwanee
Einstein Bros. Bagels — 3410
Buford Drive, Suite G400, Buford
Farmer’s Market — 3333
Buford Drive, Suite 1074, Buford
Get Lit Nutrition — 922 Gainesville Highway, Suite 111, Buford
Greatea Suwanee — 3930 Charleston Market Street NW, Suite B-04, Suwanee Gusto — 2925 Buford Drive, Building 1700, Buford Lanier High School — 918 Buford Highway NE, Buford Lanier Middle School — 6482 Suwanee Dam Road, Buford
Mama’s Family Meals — 922 Gainesville Highway, Suite 1110, Buford
North Gwinnett High School — 20 Level Creek Road, Suwanee
North Gwinnett Middle School — 170 Peachtree
Industrial Boulevard, Sugar Hill
Noshi Sushi and Grill — 4965 Lanier Islands Parkway, Suite 113, Buford
Pimenton Parrilla — 1570
Buford Highway NE, Buford
Pinches Tacos Food Truck — 4685 S. Lee St., Buford
Pruitt Health Lanier — 2451
Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Buford
Suwanee Elementary School — 3875 Smithtown Road, Suwanee
Suwanee Sports Academy — 3640 Burnette Road, Suwanee
Tepui Food Truck — 4685 S. Lee St., Buford
The Food Joint — 3550 S. Bogan Road, Suite 500, Buford
Topgolf — 2935 Buford Drive, Buford
Vinny’s New York Pizza & Grill — 4977 Lanier Islands Parkway, Suites 102 & 103, Buford
Walnut Grove Elementary School — 75 Taylor Road, Suwanee
90–99 (A)
Cork It Buford — 79 E. Main St. NE, Buford; 93
Cuts Steakhouse — 1500 Satellite Boulevard, Suwanee; 99
Damon — 3131 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suite A2,
Suwanee; 91
Don Bonachon Bar and Grill — 4369 Suwanee Dam Road, Suite 105, Suwanee; 91
Eben Silver Town — 96
El Rinconcito Sabor Latino — 4955 Alton Tucker Boulevard NE, Suite 400, Sugar Hill; 91
Hacienda Bar and Grill — 2925 Buford Drive, Suite 1600, Buford; 96
Ja Ga A Dong Chim — 1291
Old Peachtree Road NW, Suite 202, Suwanee; 90
Jersey Mike’s Subs — 2925 Buford Drive, Suite 1225, Buford; 99
Jimmy John’s #4795 — 97
Jinya Ramen Bar — 2925 Buford Drive, Building 1205, Buford; 94
Kani House — 3208 Buford Drive, Buford; 90
Kenzo Japanese Restaurant — 4977 Lanier Islands Parkway, Suite 108, Buford; 92
Kinnera Indian Restaurant — 302 Satellite Boulevard NE, Suite 111, Suwanee; 91
Kokee Tea Mall of Georgia — 95
La Ca Vietnamese Coffee House — 3370 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suites 100/102, Suwanee; 94
Levy @ Atlanta Falcons Training Facility — 97
Levy Restaurants @ Atlanta Falcons Training Facility — 97
Main Event Entertainment — 97
Man Hong — 1291 Old Peachtree Road NW, Suite B2, Suwanee; 95
Mellow Mushroom — 90
Pita Mediterranean Street Food — 98 Quickly — 93
Ray’s Donuts #2 — 1955
Gravel Springs Road, Suite B, Buford; 96
Shine Pizza — 90
So Gong Dong Tofu — 1291 Old Peachtree Road NW, Suites 403 & 404, Suwanee; 99
Tacos and Tequilas Mexican Grill — 3480 Financial Center Way, Suite M1070, Buford; 99
The Olive Garden Italian Restaurant #1532 — 3220 Buford Drive, Buford; 92
The Overlook at Suwanee — 4055 Suwanee Dam Road NW, Suwanee; 96 Wasabi & Sushi — 1291 Old Peachtree Road NW, Suwanee; 97
80–89
(B)
Biba’s Italian Restaurant — 7338 Spout Springs Road, Suites 18 & 19; 82
Cafe Amico — 320 Town Center Avenue, Suite 9A, Suwanee; 89
Darak Buford Grill — 4865
S. Lee St., Buford; 85 I Luv Pho — 1680 Mall of Georgia Boulevard #1715, Buford; 87
La Ruta Del Sabor — 4685 S.
Lee St., Buford; 82 Panda Express Restaurant — 87
Revolving Sushi Factory — 2660 Mall of Georgia Boulevard, Suite 100B, Buford; 88 Station Master — 125 Celebration Drive, Suwanee; 87 Sushi Niko Niko Hibachi — 81
Taco’s Tacos — 2437 Hancock Avenue, Suite 130, Buford; 81 The Nanoom — 3255 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee; 81
Thrill Korean Steak and Bar — 925 Buford Drive, Building 1300, Buford; 85 Toast and Jam — 115 E. Main St. NE, Suite A1B, Buford; 85
Two Cities Pizza Co. — 3433 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Suwanee; 83
70–79 (C)
Jersey Mike’s Subs — 79
Below 70 (F)
Kokee Tea Mall of Georgia — 3333 Buford Drive, Suite 2004A, Buford; 60 Live Karaoke — 1291 Old Peachtree Road NW, Suite 121, Suwanee; 66 WNB Factory — 5885 Cumming Highway NE, Suite 109, Buford; 65
Suwanee student earns top national honor in Scholastic Art & Writing Awards
Sharon Stewart
SUWANEE - A Suwanee student has been named one of the top young artists in the nation after earning the highest honor in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
Joyce Kim, a senior at Won Art Studio in Suwanee, received a Gold Medal Portfolio Award for her mixed media portfolio, “Fear of the Uncontrollable.” The award places Kim among a select group of students recognized nationally for outstanding creative work.
The Gold Medal Portfolio Award is the program’s highest honor. Kim was selected from more than 700 portfolio submissions that advanced to national adjudication, with each recipient receiving a $12,500 scholarship.
Kim’s portfolio explores her experience immigrating from Korea to the United States in 2016 and the fear, anxiety and perfectionism that followed as she adjusted to a new language, culture and environment.
“Art became a way for me to process those feelings visually and honestly,” Kim said. “‘Fear of the Uncontrollable’ was especially meaningful to me because it was a topic I genuinely felt connected to and wanted to communicate to others in a way that could resonate emotionally.”
Kim said perfectionism shaped much of her early approach to art. For years, she focused on making each piece technically strong enough to prove herself. That changed after she attended Geor-
gia’s Governor’s Honors Program, where she was introduced to abstract painting and began focusing more on process, composition and emotion.
“Once I stopped obsessing over perfection and focused more on the bigger picture and the emotions behind the work, I actually started enjoying making art more,” Kim said.
Her creative process for the portfolio was experimental and intuitive, she said. Rather than relying on strict sketches or detailed plans, Kim allowed the work to evolve as she created it. She said that approach connected directly to the portfolio’s theme of learning to accept uncertainty.
One of the most challenging pieces in the collection was “Need to Peel,” which pushed Kim outside her usual style.
“With that piece, I tried to push myself to be more bold and experimental rather than focusing heavily on tiny details and realism like I normally would,” Kim said.
Kim said she was surprised when she learned she had received the national honor. She was on a Zoom call with her high school art teacher, the Scholastic Art & Writing Awards team and her mother when she received the news.
“My mom and I were screaming with excitement as soon as the call ended,” Kim said. “It was a really memorable moment for me.”
The recognition was especially meaningful, she said, because the work reflected personal experiences and emotions.
“A lot of my work came from very per-
sonal emotions and experiences, so receiving a national award for something that honest and vulnerable felt really rewarding and encouraging as an artist,” Kim said.
Kim plans to attend Yale University, where she hopes to study the connection between psychology and visual arts. She said she also hopes to expand her work through murals, digital art, collaborative projects and interdisci-
plinary design.
“My ultimate goal as an artist is to continue inspiring others and creating work that feels emotionally honest and relatable for people like me,” Kim said.
Gold Medal Porfolio recipients will be recognized June 10 during a national ceremony at Carnegie Hall in New York City.
Elevate Martial Arts plans grand opening for new Sugar Hill facility in May
SUGAR HILL - Families in Sugar Hill will soon have a new destination for youth fitness and training as Elevate Martial Arts and Sugar Hill’s Best prepare to open a new facility at 6019 Suwanee Dam Road.
The location is expected to open May 16. A grand opening event is planned from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and will feature free Ninja Parkour classes offered hourly, with a break from 1 to 2 p.m. Each session will be limited to 24 participants, and families may reserve spots in advance through a digital sign-up system accessible by QR code.
Families who enroll in Ninja Parkour, Jiu-Jitsu or martial arts classes during the grand opening will receive special discounts.
“Rather than hosting a traditional ribbon-cutting alone, we’re planning a full day centered on getting children onto the equipment and into the action,” said Liliana Tellez, director of Elevate Martial Arts and Sugar Hill’s Best.
A formal ribbon-cutting is also being planned in coordination with Sugar Hill City Council members Alvin Hicks and Samantha Piovesan.
Elevate Martial Arts began as a karate school focused on providing a struc-
tured, confidence-building environment for children. It has since expanded to include karate, Jiu-Jitsu, Ninja Parkour, after-school programs and summer camp programs.
Tellez said the organization has served more than 300 families in Sugar Hill and surrounding areas during the past three years.
“With this new space, we’re significantly increasing our impact, doubling our mat space and expanding our programs to include Jiu-Jitsu and Ninja Parkour alongside our established offerings,” Tellez said.
The facility will include a Ninja Park-
our rig designed to help children build coordination, body awareness and resilience through movement-based training. The addition of Jiu-Jitsu brings a ground-based discipline focused on problem-solving, leverage and self-discipline.
“We’re excited to celebrate the grand opening of our new facility this May,” Tellez said. “This expansion represents a major milestone for both our team and the families we serve.”
For more information, visit elevateparkourninja.com.
-Sharon Stewart
Submitted photo
Joyce Kim’s mixed media works, “Surrender,” left, and “Between Tracks,” right, are part of her Gold Medal Portfolio Award-winning collection, “Fear of the Uncontrollable,” recognized in the 2026 Scholastic Art & Writing Awards.
CRIME LOG BUFORD AND SURROUNDING AREAS
The following were filed by Suwanee Police Deparment during the month of April.
Officers responded to a report of battery — misdemeanor at the 000 block of Buford Highway in Suwanee.
Theft by taking — misdemeanor was reported at the 3200 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of stalking — misdemeanor at the 3300 block of Smithtown Road in Suwanee.
Theft by shoplifting — misdemeanor was reported at the 3200 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Entering an automobile was reported at the 400 block of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of theft by conversion — misdemeanor at the 4600 block of Camber Well Lane in Suwanee. Officers responded to reports of second-degree burglary eight times at the 3400 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Battery — misdemeanor was reported at the 4000 block of McGinnis Ferry Road in Suwanee.
Terroristic threats and acts were reported at the 3500 block of Pierce Arrow Circle in Suwanee.
Theft by deception — felony was reported at the 3400 block of Ansley Park Drive in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of theft by taking — felony at the 4200 block of Suwanee Dam Road in Suwanee.
Theft by taking — misdemeanor was reported at the 4200 block of Suwanee Dam Road in Suwanee.
Theft by shoplifting — misdemeanor was reported six times at the 3200 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of theft by deception — misdemeanor at the 3700 block of Brushy Ridge Way in Suwanee. Criminal damage to property — second degree was reported at the 3400 block of Crop Corner Road in Suwanee.
DUI — driving under the influence of alcohol — was reported at the 3100 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of public drunkenness at the 500 block of Jackson Street in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of simple battery at the 4000 block of McGinnis Ferry Road in Suwanee.
Battery — misdemeanor was reported at the 4000 block of McGinnis Ferry Road in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of theft by taking — misdemeanor at the 4200 block of Suwanee Dam Road in Suwanee.
Theft by shoplifting was reported at the 000 block of Buford Highway and the 3200 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of DUI — driving under the influence of alcohol — at I-85 North and Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Criminal damage to property was reported at the 3400 block of Crop Corner Road in Suwanee.
Possession of an altered ID was reported at the 500 block of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard in Suwanee.
Officers responded to reports of simple battery at the 3200 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road and the 3400 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Terroristic threats and acts — felony — were reported at the 400 block of Northolt Parkway in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of theft by taking — misdemeanor at the 300 block of Main Street in Suwanee.
Theft by shoplifting — misdemeanor was reported three times at the 3200 block of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road in Suwanee.
Theft by deception — misdemeanor was reported at the 3200 block of Wanstead Park Drive in Suwanee.
Officers responded to a report of criminal damage to property — second degree at the 3700 block of Namasco Drive in Suwanee.
WORLD FINALS
Continued from page 1
At Buford Senior Academy, coach Sam Marion said one World Finals team is made up of five third graders who had never competed in Odyssey of the Mind before this season.
“I think that makes their accomplishments even more impressive,” Marion said.
Marion said the team has practiced weekly to refine its long-term solution and strengthen teamwork during spontaneous problems. After each competition, coaches receive detailed score sheets that help teams identify what worked and what needs improvement.
“All of this feedback is used by the team to improve their performance or make adjustments to what is even being scored,” Marion said. “Also, since the team has worked so hard for the majority of the school year, we make sure to have some fun along the way too.”
The team is competing in “Off the Rails,” an engineering-based problem that requires students to create a self-propelled train engine vehicle. The vehicle must travel between points multiple times while adding train cars during each trip.
Students also build a story around the train’s journey, including required characters such as a conductor and a villain.
Marion said the engineering portion has challenged the students at each stage of competition.
“This problem is an engineering problem, and in each of the competitions so far, there has been a different aspect of the engineering that has not worked as planned,” Marion said. “A major goal for World Finals is to have all of the engineering elements function at the same time.”
Those setbacks, Marion said, became some of the team’s most important learning moments.
“Sometimes this was in practice when a design didn’t work as they hoped,” Marion said. “In each competition, they experienced an element of the build failing in a manner that had never happened before, and the team kept going and finished the solution rather than getting stuck or quitting.”
That perseverance, she said, stood out to judges.
“This teamwork and perseverance are the reasons they made it all the way to World Finals, and these traits were noted by the judges in the handwritten notes,” Marion said.
At Buford Middle School, coach Abbey Goldin said students have been preparing since September for both long-term and spontaneous problems.
“We have been meeting weekly since September to prepare for both long-term and spontaneous problems,” Goldin said. “Team members have worked consistently to refine their solutions during meetings and after competitions. We have focused on teamwork and improving problem-solving skills.”
Buford Middle School will send two
teams to World Finals after both placed second at the State Competition in March at Columbus State University. The teams will represent Georgia in Division II, the middle school division.
Goldin said both teams are focused on improving their state scores while continuing to grow as a team.
Team 3 will compete with “The Epic Quest,” a storytelling-based performance problem that required students to create an original epic poem about a team-designed quest to defeat a beast. In Buford’s performance, students use a game of Jenga to retrieve a gem needed to replace one in the queen’s crown.
“Their performance is filled with energy, creativity and humor,” Goldin said.
All members of Team 3 are qualifying for World Finals for the first time. Their goal is to finish in the top 25%.
Team 4 will compete with “Life’s a Ball: Party Time!” The problem combines engineering and performance. Students designed and built a balsa wood structure that has supported more than 500 pounds while withstanding impacts from different types of balls rolled into it.
Their performance takes place at “Sporty Sam’s,” where a dance party entertains the audience while engineers test the strength and stability of the structure.
Team 4 includes several students
who previously attended World Finals while at Buford Senior Academy. The team placed 23rd overall in the same structure category in a previous year and hopes to build on that success by placing in the top 15.
Goldin said both middle school teams have shown collaboration, dedication and perseverance throughout the season.
“Both teams have demonstrated teamwork, collaboration and dedication throughout the season,” Goldin said. “They have also worked hard to strengthen their spontaneous problem-solving skills, both verbal and hands-on.”
For Buford students, World Finals will offer more than competition. The event gives students the chance to meet teams from across the country and around the world, exchange ideas and experience creative problem-solving on an international stage.
“In addition to performance goals, we strive to strengthen our OM values of having fun, meeting new friends from around the world, and continuing to develop creativity and problem-solving skills,” Goldin said.
As the competition approaches, Buford teams are continuing to refine their solutions and prepare for the world stage.
“It has been an exciting year of growth for our program,” Goldin said, “and we look forward to continuing to build and expand Odyssey of the Mind here at BMS.”
Photo courtesy of Buford City Schools
Buford Middle School Team 3, “The Epic Quest,” includes, from left, Calista Cox, Rodrigo DaSilva, Jayen Gopani, Dara Lowder, Noah Rogers and Sydney Washburn. The team placed third at regionals in Division II and qualified for the state Odyssey of the Mind competition.
Photo courtesy of Buford City Schools
Buford Middle School Team 2, “Life’s a Ball,” includes, from left, Luke Andrews, Jace Bedingfield, Myles Min, Viaan Patel, Connor Tu and Luke Vecchione. The team placed second at regionals in Division II and qualified for the state Odyssey of the Mind competition.
HUNCHBACK
Continued from page 1
ni woman who sees beyond his appearance.
Quasimodo is not alone in his admiration for her. Captain Phoebus and Frollo also are drawn to Esmeralda, though in very different ways
As Frollo’s obsession grows, he launches a ruthless campaign against the Romani people, forcing Quasimodo to rise as an unlikely hero.
The student actors elevate the production with performances that feel polished, confident and emotionally grounded. The principal cast and ensemble work together to create a cohesive production that brings depth to the story.
Vincenzo Fuoco, who plays Quasimodo, delivers a deeply moving performance. His portrayal captures both the physical hardship and emotional resilience of the character. Though Quasi-
modo lives with severe deformities, including a prominent hump on his back, Fuoco emphasizes his gentleness, compassion and loyalty. He presents a character defined not by appearance, but by a desire for love and acceptance
Isolated from society, Quasimodo finds comfort in imagined companions — the gargoyles of Notre Dame. They serve as his inner voice, offering guidance and comfort in an otherwise lonely life. The element adds emotional complexity to the role and highlights Quasimodo’s vulnerability.
Even in despair, Quasimodo shows remarkable kindness. During his secret venture beyond the cathedral, he forms a meaningful connection with Esmeralda. Inspired by her compassion, he commits himself to protecting her at all costs.
Christopher Rishar’s portrayal of Frollo is equally compelling. He brings intensity and nuance to the role of the pious yet deeply corrupt minister of justice. Rishar depicts a man who outwardly
preaches virtue while being consumed by lust, hatred and a hunger for power. His use of religious authority to justify cruelty underscores the character’s hypocrisy.
Frollo’s descent into obsession and madness is portrayed with chilling precision. His fixation on controlling Esmeralda, paired with his campaign against the Romani people, reveals the destructive consequences of unchecked self-righteousness and intolerance.
“Frollo’s inner turmoil was very difficult to display onstage, but also very rewarding,” Rishar said. “‘Hunchback,’ overall, was just that, difficult but rewarding.”
Rishar said the music required a choral
style with a strong emphasis on diction, while the acting demanded careful attention to subtext and delivery.
“When I finally got a grasp on it, I found it to be extremely rewarding as an actor to produce a character of such depth,” he said.
Throughout the performance, the cast immerses the audience in the world of the show. The staging surrounds viewers, making them feel less like observers and more like part of Buford High School’s re-creation of 15th-century Paris.
Photo courtesy of Buford High School.
Isimi Banks, Amelia Lister, Lily Wigington, Cora Robinson, Hayden Converse and Sophie White perform during Buford High School’s production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Photo courtesy of Buford High School. Christopher Rishar performs as Frollo during Buford High School’s production of “The Hunchback of Notre Dame
Buford City Schools named among nation’s Best Communities for Music Education
the recognition.
BUFORD - Buford City Schools has been named one of the nation’s Best Communities for Music Education by the NAMM Foundation, recognizing the district’s commitment to providing students with access to high-quality music instruction.
The 2026 designation honors school districts across the country that demonstrate strong support for music education as part of a well-rounded academic experience. Buford City Schools was among more than 1,000 districts and campuses nationwide selected for
The Best Communities for Music Education program evaluates districts based on several factors, including music program funding, student participation, instructional time, facilities, community support and access to music education across grade levels.
For Buford City Schools, the recognition reflects the district’s continued investment in the arts and its commitment to helping students grow through music.
The designation highlights several strengths within the district, including comprehensive music offerings, equitable access for students and strong sup-
port from administrators, educators, families and the broader Buford community.
Music education has long been connected to student development, supporting creativity, collaboration, discipline and critical thinking. District leaders said the recognition affirms Buford City Schools’ belief that music plays an important role in preparing students for success both inside and outside the classroom.
The Best Communities for Music Education program is now in its 27th year. The annual honor continues to spotlight districts that create and sustain meaningful opportunities for
students to learn, perform and grow through music.
Buford City Schools’ 2026 selection places the district among a distinguished group of communities recognized for setting a high standard in music education.
Buford Community Center announces 2026 Summer Concert Series lineup
Jessica Wilson
BUFORD — The Buford Community Center’s Summer Concert Series will return this year with free outdoor concerts on the lawn.
The 2026 schedule received final approval Monday night during the Buford City Commission meeting.
The series will open Saturday, May 30, with TRIBUTE — A Celebration of The Allman Brothers Band. The Atlanta-based, eight-piece group is known for recreating the sound and energy of The Allman Brothers Band. Since its founding in 2013, TRIBUTE has built a loyal following while performing at venues and events across Atlanta and the Southeast.
SkynFolks — The Authentic Lynyrd Skynyrd Experience will perform Saturday, June 27. The band was formed by musicians committed to faithfully reproducing the music of Lynyrd Skynyrd, with performances focused on authentic renditions of songs from the
band’s first five albums.
Hotel California — The Original Eagles Tribute will perform Saturday, July 25. Founded in 1986, Hotel California has toured internationally for decades, bringing the music of the Eagles to audiences across North America and around the world.
All announced concerts will begin at 7 p.m., with gates opening at 6 p.m. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.
Todd Cleveland, director of the Buford Community Center, told meeting attendees that the artist for the September concert will be announced in July as part of the artist’s upcoming tour schedule.
“This series is something the community looks forward to every year,” Cleveland said. “It gives families, friends and neighbors a chance to come together, enjoy great live music and spend an evening on the lawn at the Buford Community Center.”
Cleveland said the concerts are designed to offer a welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.
“We want people to be able to bring a chair or a blanket, relax on the lawn and enjoy a night of music without having to leave Buford,” Cleveland said. “It is one of the ways the city continues to invest in quality-of-life events for our residents.”
The Summer Concert Series includes four concerts and is open to the public. Admission is free. Gates open at 6 p.m., and concerts begin at 7 p.m.
Keli Sierra
Photo submitted by Buford Community Center
Concertgoers gather on the lawn at the Buford Community Center during a previous Summer Concert Series performance.
Alumni Spotlight
Courtney Martin | Class of 2021
Buford is known for producing young adults who are pushed to be the very best they can be. They are driven, persistent and resilient, and for one 2021 graduate, the foundation built in the halls and on the fields at BHS has translated into success as she pursues her dreams.
Courtney Martin and her siblings, Dominique (BHS Class of 2016) and Julian (BHS Class of 2024), were raised in Buford by their parents, Jackie and Jean-Claude Martin.
In 2008, Courtney entered kindergarten at Buford Elementary School and began to learn that Buford was a community that values excellence, teamwork and pride. By the time she entered Buford High School, those values had taken root, and Courtney wasted no time making her mark.
High school was a busy and demanding time, as she balanced life as a standout dual-sport athlete while maintaining a 4.0 GPA. She earned the
most recognition in lacrosse, where she was a four-year varsity starter and was co-captain her senior year. She was named All-County First Team, earned GHSA All-State Second Team honors, and was selected as one of the Gwinnett Lacrosse Super Six, just to name a few. On the basketball court, she contributed to multiple state championship teams and region titles, playing a critical role in one of the most dominant programs in Georgia.
It would be her head basketball coach, Gene Durden, who would have the biggest impact on her life on and off the court.
“He taught me to believe in myself, that everyone plays a critical role on a team, and that you can’t be successful alone,” Courtney said. “He pushed me to be the best person I could be, and I wouldn’t be who I am today without him.”
Courtney would learn the most about herself and just how resilient she could be in her junior year, the year that COVID-19 turned everyone’s world upside down. The uncertainty of COVID collided with the pressures of academics, athletics, and recruiting. Courtney found herself losing control and unable to breathe, experiencing what she would later learn was her first anxiety attack in the middle of a lacrosse game. For someone accustomed to pushing through challenges, this was unfamiliar territory and a turning point.
It took her mother pushing her to see a therapist to finally begin to work through the issues plaguing her. Going through her struggles with anxiety and therapy reshaped her perspective on mental health. What once felt like a weakness became a source of strength. Through that journey, she developed resilience, self-awareness, and a commitment
to maintaining balance. Those are tools she continues to use today.
After earning a scholarship to play for nationally ranked Rollins College lacrosse, she competed in the NCAA tournament, proving she could play at the collegiate level.
Courtney excelled academically at Rollins College while pursuing a major in biology, earning President’s and scholar-athlete honors.
Following her second year at Rollins, Courtney made the decision to transfer to the University of Georgia, where she would be able to gain the knowledge and experiences she would need to one day enter veterinary school. Courtney would graduate Cum Laude from UGA in May 2025 with a degree in Animal Biosciences.
Courtney always knew that she would be applying to veterinary school after earning her Animal Biosciences degree. The path, however, is highly competitive, with only 30 accredited veterinary schools in the country.
“According to the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, each year, approximately 10,800 to 13,000 students apply to veterinary colleges in the United States, with roughly 3,800 to 4,000 new students enrolled annually,” Courtney said.
Four veterinary schools accepted Courtney, and after visiting the campuses, she decided that Mississippi State University was where she would pursue her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree. Courtney was accepted in the first round out of 3,000 applicants, and she learned that she has earned the Bardsley Scholarship. This prestigious award
provides $50,000 to 8–12 incoming veterinary students who rank among the top of their class, recognizing those who have achieved at least a 3.75 undergraduate GPA while also demonstrating exceptional involvement in extracurricular activities and strong leadership potential.
“I am so very proud to be recognized for this honor, especially since I took the leap of faith to forgo in-state tuition at UGA (vet school is expensive!),” she said.
The lessons learned in the classroom, on the fields and courts of Buford High School have stayed with Courtney as she has pursued her dream of becoming a veterinarian. Her resilience, tenacity and determination will serve her well in this new and exciting chapter of her life, one built on the foundation first formed in Buford.
- Alicia Payne
Brightside program helps expand job opportunities for people with special abilities
Jessica Wilson
BUFORD - Brightside Forever Foundation is working to expand employment opportunities for individuals with special abilities through a new program designed to help local businesses hire, train and support employees.
The program, called The BEAN, short for Brightside Empower Ability Network, was created to connect businesses with individuals in the special abilities community while offering employers guidance throughout the hiring process.
Jennifer Elinburg, co-owner of Brightside Cafe, said the idea grew out of a growing waitlist of individuals seeking employment opportunities.
“Due to the fact that we have a large waitlist, we wanted to encourage other businesses to open up their hearts and space to the idea of special ability employment opportunities within our community,” Elinburg said.
Elinburg said Brightside has long believed that every business can play a role in creating more inclusive workplaces.
“We have said from the very beginning, if every business within 10 miles of Brightside would hire one person off our waitlist and the Special Kneads and Treats waitlist, then neither of us would have a waitlist and everyone in the community would have an opportunity for success and purpose,” she said.
The BEAN began after Brightside leaders shared the idea at the organization’s One Bright Night Gala in February. Elinburg said interest from the business community was immediate.
“We had people lining up at the door that next Monday wanting to be involved,” she said. “We knew it would take one business and others would follow.”
The first BEAN program included five businesses representing landscaping, salon services, day care, cleaning and facility management, and roofing. The fourweek program met once a week for one hour and covered topics including the purpose behind inclusive hiring, how to begin, what to do when challenges arise,
job skills and the interview process.
Elinburg said the early results have been encouraging. Of the five businesses that participated, four have hired individuals from the special abilities community, with some hiring multiple employees.
“In a month and a half, we have had 12 people hired in our community, and so many new places are calling, ready to jump in with us to make a difference both in the lives of the people on our waitlist but also in their businesses,” Elinburg said.
Brightside leaders say the program is intended to help close a significant employment gap. According to information shared by the organization, the employment rate for individuals with special abilities in the United States is 22.7%, compared with 65.5% for those without special abilities.
Elinburg said part of the challenge is that many employers are unfamiliar with the process or may have concerns about hiring someone with a special ability.
“People don’t know what they don’t know until someone educates them, and we were seeing a lot of people who didn’t know this was a possibility,” she said.
She said some business owners mistakenly believe liability or hiring requirements are barriers.
“So many businesses think that liability is an issue when hiring someone with a special ability, and we have had to educate them that it is not,” Elinburg said. “In fact, there is no difference in hiring processes.”
Brightside Cafe opened in Buford with the mission of showing that individuals with special abilities deserve opportunities to live, work, play and feel successful in their own community. Elinburg said Buford was chosen intentionally, with the hope that success locally could be expanded to other communities.
“If we could make a difference for the special abilities community in Buford, then we can scale it to any community around us,” she said.
The BEAN also provides participating businesses with support, mentorship and access to potential employees. Businesses
may receive recognition through BEAN branding to highlight their commitment to inclusive hiring.
Elinburg said the need for the program is immediate.
“There is never a wrong time to launch something like The BEAN,” she said. “It should already be a practice that is done within businesses. But the reality is that is not the case.”
As Brightside’s waitlist continued to grow, Elinburg said the organization knew it could not meet the need alone.
“Once our list kept growing and we knew that our ability to save the world couldn’t be done alone, we knew we needed help, and the best help is the other businesses around us,” she said. “Together we can save the world one job at a time.”
Businesses interested in learning more about The BEAN may contact Brightside Forever Foundation at brightsidecafebuford@gmail.com.
Local garden club celebrates America’s 250th anniversary with flower show
95 or higher and be the highest-scoring entry in its division or class.
BUFORD - Buford-based Stonehedge Garden Club hosted the “Blossoms of Liberty” Flower Show at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center April 16-18. The show’s theme celebrated America’s 250th anniversary.
Stonehedge Garden Club, a member of the National Garden Club, began planning the flower show a year ago. When looking for a venue, club president Monica Woodard knew an employee at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, and a plan came together to allow the garden club to hold the show there as part of the county’s America 250 celebrations.
After the club was asked to take part in the celebration, the show’s theme, “Blossoms of Liberty,” was born.
Leading up to the flower show, committees organized the event, and workshops were held to help garden club members prepare entries for the Design and Botanical Arts divisions. Several club meetings also focused on preparing members to submit plants for the Horticulture Division, the largest division in the show.
The flower show conformed to the National Garden Club’s Small Standard Flower Show rules and format. There were three divisions — Design, Botanical Arts and Horticulture — with multiple classes tied to the overall theme. In the Design Division, classes included “The Ride of Paul Revere,” “Betsy Ross” and “The Boston Tea Party.”
The show was open to all participants, not just Stonehedge Garden Club members. Between club members and other participants, the show included 119 horticulture entries, 12 designs, 14 photographs, six birdhouses, four sets of notecards, four pressed flower pictures and three educational exhibits.
The entries were judged by a National Garden Club Evaluating Panel of Judges. To win first place or one of the top exhibitor awards, an entry had to score
Stonehedge Garden Club’s flower how scored above a 95 by the NGC Evaluating Panel of Judges, meaning the club can apply for an NGC Flower Show Achievement Award.
Holding the show at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center introduced the garden club to a wider public audience. More than 100 people visited the flower show during its three-day run.
“We had many positive comments from the general public visiting the show, as well as from the staff at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center,” Flower Show Chairman Lynn Fronk said. “Parents brought young children in to view the show, and there were lots of questions as well as interest in joining a garden club.”
“Stonehedge Garden Club is extremely grateful for the opportunity to host the ‘Blossoms of Liberty’ Flower Show at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center,” Woodard said. “We wish to thank Jason West, Cammie Mansfield and the entire staff for their support. We look forward to working with the GEHC again in the future.”
Photo Credit: Stewart Woodard
The winner of the prestigious Award of Horticultural Excellence, given to the most outstanding exhibit in the Horticulture Division, was awarded to Lynn Fronk for her Begonia, “Jive.”
Alicia Payne
Photo Credit: Stewart Woodard Winner of the Photography Award went to exhibitor, Stewart Woodard, for his photograph of a single bloom, “Cherokee Rose.”
Photo Credit: Stewart Woodard
The Artistic Crafts Award went to Lynne Loftin for the pressed flower picture she did for the theme “Eleanor Roosevelt.”
Photo Credit: Stewart Woodard
The Grower’s Choice Award went to Claudia Bell for her Cyclamen plant.l
Photo Credit: Stewart Woodard
Exhibitor Alicia Payne won the Designer’s Choice Award for a design interpreting “Betsy Ross.”
Photo Credit: Stewart Woodard
The Arboreal Award for Broadleaf Evergreen went to exhibitor Jeanette Laskey.
COMMUNITIES PREPARE TO HONOR FALLEN SERVICE MEMBERS AHEAD OF MEMORIAL DAY
SUGAR HILL - As Memorial Day approaches, residents in Sugar Hill and Buford are preparing cemeteries and memorial sites to honor the men and women who died while serving the country.
In Sugar Hill, volunteers recently gathered to prepare the city’s historic cemetery and Veterans Memorial ahead of the community’s Memorial Day observance. The service effort brought together city leaders, staff, local organizations, students and residents at the Sugar Hill Historic Cemetery and the Sugar Hill Veterans Memorial.
At the Veterans Memorial, members of the Suwanee Creek Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution planted flowers in the Remembrance Garden.
“The chapter has played a long-standing role in helping preserve local history and honor veterans through Memorial Day and Veterans Day traditions in the community,” Sugar Hill Mayor Brandon Hembree said.
Members of the Buford Church of Christ congregation also helped with projects at the Sugar Hill Historic Cemetery. Hembree said the cleanup has become an annual tradition organized with Stephanie Isaacs and the city of Sugar Hill.
Volunteers worked throughout the cemetery to clean and prepare the historic site for Memorial Day. Among the projects was work on the gravesite of a high school student who died of cancer. Jeffrey Cruz, a Lanier High School student, assisted with the project, which showed a dramatic difference after the work was completed.
Hembree said the day reflected the community’s continued commitment to honoring those who came before them while caring for important local landmarks.
Scout troops and other youth groups also are being invited to take part in the preparation effort. Volunteers are needed at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 23, to place U.S. flags at the gravesites of service members laid to rest in the Sugar Hill Historic Cemetery.
Hembree said the effort is intended to help prepare the cemetery for Memorial Day while allowing young volunteers to serve the community and learn more about honoring veterans. Boy Scout and Girl Scout troops in need of service hours are encouraged to participate.
While the city of Sugar Hill hosts a formal Memorial Day ceremony, the city of Buford does not have an official municipal Memorial Day program planned. Still, local veterans and their families are making sure the holiday is marked in a visible way.
At Broadlawn Memorial Gardens, that remembrance takes shape through the placement of American flags on veterans’ graves.
The effort is not an official event of the city of Buford, but Jason Tredway, past commander of American Legion Post 127 in Sugar Hill, said families connected to the post have continued the work because they believe the cemetery should be prepared for Memorial Day.
“Even without an official ceremony, these veterans deserve to be remembered,” Tredway said. “Placing the flags is one way our families can make sure their service is seen and honored.”
Volunteers will gather at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 16, at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens in Buford to help place flags.
The effort is open to the public and is expected to take about two hours.
“Placing flags on veterans’ graves is a simple act, but it carries a powerful message,” Tredway said. “It shows that our community remembers their service, their sacrifice and the families they left behind.”
The city of Sugar Hill will honor and remember fallen service members during its Memorial Day ceremony from 10:30 a.m. to noon Monday, May 25, in front of the Veterans Memorial on West Broad Street in downtown Sugar Hill.
Sugar Hill City Hall will be closed Monday, May 25, in observance
Day.
Grace Anne Johnson
Photo courtesy of Brandon Hembree. Sugar Hill Mayor Brandon Hembree, left, is pictured with Lanier High School student Jeffrey Cruz during cleanup efforts at the Sugar Hill Historic Cemetery ahead of Memorial Day observances
Photo courtesy of Brandon Hembree Members of the Suwanee Creek Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution plant flowers in the Remembrance Garden at the Sugar Hill Veterans Memorial ahead of Memorial Day observances..
Candidates for Georgia House, Gwinnett Commission, Superior Court and State School Superintendent address voters at Buford Business Alliance town hall
Sharon Stewart
BUFORD — Candidates in several key local and state races addressed taxes, traffic, development, education, public safety and judicial transparency during a candidate town hall hosted by the Buford Business Alliance ahead of the May 19 primary election.
The forum featured candidates running for Georgia House District 100, Gwinnett County Commission District 4, Gwinnett County Superior Court and Georgia state school superintendent. The races affect voters in Buford, Sugar Hill, Suwanee and surrounding North Gwinnett communities.
Candidates for House District 100 focused heavily on taxes, small business support and mental health resources.
Jennifer Ambler, a former teacher and small business owner, said Georgia should focus more on supporting local businesses instead of offering major incentives to large corporations and data centers.
“If we’re giving tax breaks to businesses, it should be our small businesses here in Georgia,” Ambler said.
Candidate Josh Clark, a former state legislator and business owner, said he would support eliminating the state income tax and reducing what he described as government favoritism in economic policy.
“One of the things you’ll see me fight for is eliminating the income tax,” Clark said.
Edwin Duncan, a Navy veteran and business owner, also said he supports lowering taxes and reducing regulations so businesses can reinvest in their communities.
“If we can save more of the money and revenue in our businesses, then we
invest in our communities,” Duncan said.
Mental health was another major topic in the House District 100 discussion.
Duncan said communities need to remove the stigma surrounding mental health. Ambler called for more schoolbased mental health providers, especially as students face stress tied to social media and other pressures.
Clark said education, parental involvement and community engagement all play a role in supporting students and improving mental health outcomes.
Candidates for Gwinnett County Commission District 4 addressed traffic congestion, rapid development and infrastructure concerns across the county.
Ben Culberson said his campaign is centered on “community-first leadership” and improving communication between county government and residents.
“For every action the county takes, I want there to be an equal effort in communicating it,” Culberson said.
Incumbent Commissioner Matthew Holtkamp highlighted public safety staffing and traffic improvements during his current term.
“We are now fully staffed in both our fire and police departments,” Holtkamp said.
Arefeen Chowdhury, an Army veteran and business consultant, said the county should consider staggered work schedules, microtransit and smart technology to reduce congestion.
“We need almost an Uber-style transportation solution,” Chowdhury said. Development and infrastructure planning also generated discussion. Holtkamp said temporary moratoriums may sometimes be necessary when in-
frastructure cannot support additional growth, though state law limits how long those pauses can remain in place.
Chowdhury said development decisions should be made case by case, using data and community input.
“If data shows that it’s been enough, we cannot hold any longer, then you need to wait,” Chowdhury said.
Culberson pointed to concerns over data centers and large apartment developments as examples of why residents want a stronger voice in planning decisions.
Gwinnett County Superior Court candidates Ramona Toole and B.T. Gutter Parker discussed judicial ethics, fairness and public trust.
Toole said judges should recuse themselves whenever there is even an appearance of impropriety.
“If that relationship even gives the appearance of impropriety, I believe the best thing to do is recuse myself,” Toole said.
Parker highlighted her experience representing prosecutors, defendants, plaintiffs and business owners.
“There has to be accountability and transparency at every level,” Parker said.
Both candidates said judges should remain accessible and
engaged with the communities they serve.
Throughout the evening, candidates repeatedly returned to themes of accessibility, transparency and public service. Several pledged to remain visible in the community, hold town halls and work directly with residents, businesses, schools and local organizations if elected.
Photo submitted
Gwinnett school board candidate Chelsea Hutchings speaks with state school superintendent candidate Bubba Longgrear during the Buford Business Alliance candidate town hall.
Christopher John Rischar
Christopher John Rischar is a senior at Buford High School. He is the son of Brian and DeAnn Rischar and has two siblings: Max Rischar, a thirdyear cadet at the United States Air Force Academy, and Brianna Rischar, a second-year student at the University of North Georgia.
Christopher notes a unique personal characteristic: he has a bifid rib on his right side, a rare anatomical variation in which a rib splits and forms an additional bone growth. He often uses this as an engaging conversation starter. In his free time, Christopher enjoys spending time outdoors, particularly exploring nature. Last summer, he hiked with friends to a natural blue hole, where they participated in cliff jumping. The group also watched the sunrise from Brasstown Bald before spending the day in Helen.
He also has a strong interest in theme parks and their history. His fascination with roller coasters includes studying their design, mechanics and historical development.
At Buford High School, Christopher has found his most meaningful involvement in the theater program. He has contributed extensively both onstage and behind the scenes, gaining a comprehensive understanding of theatrical production. His work has included serving as assistant director and dramaturge for the production of “Hairspray,” where he assisted with research, script development and promotional efforts. He has also contributed to advertising, show graphics and media, as well as set construction. In addition, he received recognition for his sound design work in “Shipwrecked.” He has served as
president of Buford High School’s Thespian Troupe for the past two years.
Christopher is enrolled in two musical theater courses, with Advanced Acting standing out as his most influential class. The course has played a pivotal role in shaping his decision to pursue acting in college and has significantly contributed to his development over the past four years. While he acknowledges the challenge of moving forward without the support of the program, he looks ahead with anticipation.
If given the opportunity to spend a full day in any classroom, Christopher would choose Advanced Acting with Drew Doss. He values Doss’ instructional approach, shared sense of humor and evident passion for the craft. He describes the class environment as collaborative and supportive, likening it to a family.
Although he finds it difficult to identify a single favorite teacher, Christopher expressed appreciation for the dedication and high standards demonstrated by all Buford High School faculty. He did, however, recognize Doss, the acting and theater technology teacher, for significantly enhancing the acting program during his first year. Christopher credits Doss’ passion and teaching style with advancing his growth as an actor.
Christopher said he most admires Buford’s culture of high expectations and accountability. He identifies Leila Bowman as the teacher who has had the greatest impact on his high school experience. Over nearly five years, Bowman has supported his academic and personal transition into high school.
Christopher is currently serving his second term as president of Thespian Troupe No. 2971. He is also a member
of the GHSA One Act team and the GHSA Literary team, while dedicating much of his time to acting, chorus and musical theater.
When asked what distinguishes Buford from other schools, Christopher cited its academic rigor and the commitment of its teachers. He believes the school’s challenging curriculum fosters critical-thinking skills early, better preparing students for the demands of college and beyond.
One of Christopher’s favorite Buford traditions is the Lifetimer Walk. Having attended Buford schools since kindergarten, he described the experience as both meaningful and reflective. During the event, he reconnected with his kindergarten teacher, Laura Laws, and revisited memories from his early education.
Christopher defines Buford pride as a commitment to excellence coupled with a strong sense of community support. He believes individual achievements are shared and celebrated collectively.
He draws inspiration from actors such as Robin Williams and Jim Carrey but cites Drew Doss as his most significant influence, noting that Doss has demonstrated how a career in acting can be both attainable and impactful.
Christopher plans to pursue a degree in acting at Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus, where he will
study with professional actors and gain practical experience in Manhattan. His long-term goal is to perform on Broadway or at the Globe Theatre in London.
Through his experiences, Christopher has developed a strong belief in the importance of serving others. He finds fulfillment in bringing joy to others and credits Buford with reinforcing the idea that a person’s value is measured by their impact on those around them.
Christopher hopes to be remembered as a dedicated and resilient role model, someone who continuously strives for self-improvement. He aims to exemplify how Buford’s high standards cultivate individuals prepared to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
- Kelli Sierra
Area track and field athletes qualify for GHSA state championships
Track and field athletes from area high schools qualified to compete in the GHSA State Championships after solid performances at the Sectional meets on May 2, 2026.
The top eight finishers in the running events and the top nine field athletes at the sectional meets advance to state. The athletes who have qualified to compete in the state championship meet are listed by classification below.
Boys
Class AAAAAA
100-meter dash
Kameron Bethea, Buford, 10.71
200-meter dash
Kameron Bethea, Buford, 21.43
800-meter run
Juan Pablo Cardenas, Buford, 2:00.11
1600-meter run
Haydn Hermansen, North Gwinnett, 4:18.41
3200-meter run
Kyle Chen, North Gwinnett, 9:36.83 and Haydn Hermansen, North Gwinnett, 9:37.16
110-meter hurdles
Gabriel Tolbert, North Gwinnett, 15.07
300-meter hurdles
Fisayo Morton, North Gwinnett, 39.77
4x100-meter relay Buford, 41.55
4x400-meter relay Buford, 3:18.17
High jump
Carmelo Williams, Buford, 6 feet, 4 inches and Jaxson Patterson, Buford, 6 feet, 2 inches
Long jump
Aiden Ellis, North Gwinnett, 21 feet, 6.75 inches
Triple jump
Fisayo Morton, North Gwinnett, 42 feet, 2.5 inches
Pole vault
Jakin Eyre, North Gwinnett, 12 feet
Discus
Marcus Rasberry Jr., Buford, 177 feet, 1 inch; Cameron Simmons, Buford, 140 feet, 8 inches and Donovan Grider, Buford, 136 feet, 8 inches
Class AAAAA
100-meter dash
Antonio Neal, Seckinger, 10.59 and Gavin Wallace, Lanier, 10.84
200-meter dash
Ehimare Edwards, Lanier, 21.91 and Gavin Wallace, Lanier, 21.93
110-meter hurdles
Joey Johnson, Lanier, 15.37
300-meter hurdles
Joey Johnson, Lanier, 39.85
4x100-meter relay
Lanier, 41.84 and Seckinger, 42.36
4x200-meter relay
Lanier, 1:28.15 and Seckinger, 1:28.36
High jump
Isaiah Marshall, Lanier, 6 feet, 2 inches
Girls
Class AAAAAA
100-meter dash
Janessa Brown, Buford, 11.82; Quinn Conwell, Buford, 11.92; Kendal Godfrey, North Gwinnett, 11.97 and Maciah Barnes, North Gwinnett, 12.05
200-meter dash
Olivia Harris, Buford, 23.89
400-meter dash
Olivia Harris, Buford, 53.61 and Carrington Harris, Buford, 55.27
800-meter run
Bria Tatum, Buford, 2:20.93
1600-meter run
Cadee Benz, North Gwinnett, 5:04.86; Jasmine Jones, Buford, 5:18.74 and Keira Gunn, North
Gwinnett, 5:23.89
3200-meter run
Cadee Benz, North Gwinnett, 10:55.11 and Jasmine Jones, Buford, 11:48.84
100-meter hurdles
Maciah Barnes, North Gwinnett, 14.54 and Vanessa Edinburgh, Buford, 15.45
300-meter hurdles
Vanessa Edinburgh, Buford, 45.37
4x100-meter relay
Buford, 45.69 and North Gwinnett, 47.48
4x200-meter relay
Buford, 1:37.71 and North Gwinnett, 1:42.05
4x400-meter relay
Buford, 3:51.85
4x800-meter relay
Buford, 9:48.28
High jump
Kamoree Curtis, Buford, 4 feet, 10 inches
Long jump
Janessa Brown, Buford, 20 feet; Kendal Godfrey, North Gwinnett, 18 inches, 6.75 inches and Carrington Harris, Buford, 17 feet, 9.75 inches
Pole vault
Maggie Norris, North Gwinnett, 9 feet, 6 inches and Brooklyn Martin, North Gwinnett, 9 feet
Discus
Kayla Smith, North Gwinnett, 90 feet, 8 inches
Shot put
Emma Dejarnette, Buford, 33 feet, 7 inches
Class AAAAA
100-meter dash
Jaylyn Johnson, Seckinger, 12.15
200-meter dash
Jaylyn Johnson, Seckinger, 24.74
100-meter hurdles
Brooklyn Randolph, Lanier, 14.43 and Whitney Wicks, Seckinger, 15.22
300-meter hurdles
Brooklyn Randolph, Lanier, 42.77 and Whitney Wicks, Seckinger, 44.49
4x100-meter relay
Seckinger, 48.75
4x200-meter relay Lanier, 1:41.50
High jump
Milan Tallman, Seckinger, 5 feet and Kaitlyn Culberson, Seckinger, 4 feet, 10 inches
Long jump
Ciara Hamlin, Seckinger, 16 feet, 10.5 inches
Triple jump
Ciara Hamlin, Seckinger, 36 feet, 0.25 inches
Pole vault
Kaitlyn Culberson, Seckinger, 9 feet
Discus
Naysa Brewer, Seckinger, 148 feet, 1 inch and Abigail Brown, Seckinger, 114 feet, 3 inches
Shot put
Naysa Brewer, Seckinger, 39 feet, 4.5 inches
The GHSA Track and Field State Championships will be held at the University of Georgia Track and Field Complex. Class AAAAAA will be held on Tuesday, May 12 and Class AAAAA will take place on Wednesday, May 13.
thestahlflix
A Buford athlete competes in a field event during a recent track and field meet.
BUFORD BASEBALL ADVANCES TO ELITE EIGHT AFTER PLAYOFF SWEEPS OF RICHMOND HILL, BROOKWOOD
Jason Martin
BUFORD - Buford baseball is headed to the Elite Eight after sweeping its first two Class 6A state playoff series at Gerald McQuaig Field at Buford City Park.
The Wolves opened the postseason with a two-game sweep of Richmond Hill on Friday, April 24, before sweeping Brookwood in the second round Friday, May 1. Buford improved to 293-1 with the wins and advanced to face North Paulding, the No. 1 seed from Region 5-6A, on Friday, May 8. Buford defeated Richmond Hill 6-2 in Game 1 of the opening round, then completed the sweep with a 17-10 win in Game 2.
In the opener, the Wolves overcame an early deficit after Richmond Hill scored an unearned run in the first inning. Sophomore Walker Taulbee entered in relief in the first and settled in quickly, allowing Buford’s offense time to respond.
The Wolves scored three runs in the bottom of the first, highlighted by senior Javy Ojeda’s two-run home run to right-center field. It was Ojeda’s fourth homer of the season.
Richmond Hill scored its final run in the second inning, but Buford answered in the bottom half when sophomore Lio Garcia hit a sacrifice fly to center field, scoring junior Ian Chafin. Buford added two more runs in the sixth behind a leadoff triple from Garcia and back-to-back hits from junior Ryan Johansen and senior Caleb Griffin.
Taulbee earned the win, improving to 8-0. He pitched 6 1/3 innings in relief, allowing two hits and one earned run while striking out three.
Garcia went 2-for-3 with a triple, do ble, RBI and two runs scored. Ojeda went 1-for-3 with a two-run homer, a walk, two RBIs and a run scored. Johansen finished 2-for-3 with a walk, RBI and run scored, while Griffin went 1-for-3 with a walk, RBI and run
scored.
In Game 2 against Richmond Hill, junior Carson Reeves had a career game to help Buford complete the sweep. Reeves went 5-for-5 with a double, seven RBIs, a run scored and a stolen base. He also earned the win in relief.
The Wolves trailed 4-1 entering the fifth inning before scoring four runs to take a 5-4 lead. Reeves delivered the key hit, clearing the bases with a twoout double. Richmond Hill responded with four runs in the bottom of the fifth to regain an 8-5 advantage.
Buford tied the game in the sixth on an RBI single from Griffin, a double from Ojeda and a sacrifice fly from junior Payton Walker. Richmond Hill moved back in front 9-8 in the bottom half, but Buford broke the game open with nine runs in the seventh. Reeves, Johansen, Ojeda, Walker and Chafin all drove in runs during the inning.
Reeves pitched the final two innings, allowing two hits and two earned runs while striking out one to improve to 5-0. Ojeda went 2-for-3 with a double, walk, sacrifice fly, four RBIs and two runs scored. Johansen finished 3-for5 with a double, RBI, two runs scored and three stolen bases. Chafin added two hits and scored a run.
The Wolves carried that momentum into the second round against Brookwood.
In Game 1, Taulbee delivered a complete-game shutout as Buford defeated the Broncos 4-0. Making his fifth start of the season, the sophomore lefthander held Brookwood hitless until the fourth inning and did not allow a Broncos runner to advance past second base.
Buford broke through in the fourth inning after Ojeda drew a walk and Walker singled. A balk moved both runners into scoring position, and Ojeda scored on a passed ball two pitches later. Reeves followed with a fielder’s choice grounder that scored Walker and gave the Wolves a 2-0 lead.
Senior Vance Bock added insurance in the sixth with his second home run
of the season, a solo shot to left field. Later in the inning, Johansen delivered a two-out RBI single to push the lead to 4-0.
Taulbee closed the game with hitless sixth and seventh innings to earn the win, improving to 9-0. He allowed three hits, struck out five and did not allow a run.
Johansen went 2-for-4 with an RBI. Bock finished 1-for-2 with a solo home run, walk, RBI and run scored. Reeves went 1-for-3 with an RBI, run scored and stolen base, while senior Ayden Lockett went 2-for-3.
Game 2 turned into a pitchers’ duel, with senior Ryland Perry throwing the first no-hitter of his career to lead Buford to a 1-0 win and a berth in the Elite Eight.
Perry, making his 11th start of the season, allowed only one baserunner. A fourth-inning walk kept him from a perfect game, but Brookwood did not record a hit.
The game remained scoreless until the seventh inning. Senior Caleb Griffin led off the top of the inning with a single up the middle. Two sacrifice bunts that were mishandled by Brookwood loaded the bases with no outs.
Bock then
grounded into a 4-6-3 double play, allowing pinch-runner Grey Lingerfelt to score the game’s only run.
Perry retired the side in order in the bottom of the seventh to seal the win. He pitched seven innings, allowing no hits and no runs while striking out five and walking one.
Garcia led Buford offensively, going 2-for-3. Griffin and Johansen each added a hit.
Buford will travel to North Paulding for the Elite Eight round Friday, May 8. Game times were to be announced.
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Junior Ryan Johansen takes a swing during Buford’s Class 6A state playoff run at Gerald McQuaig Field at Buford City Park. Johansen helped power the Wolves’ postseason offense with multiple hits and key RBIs as Buford advanced to the Elite Eight.
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