Snellville Spirit Spring 2024

SUNDAY SERVICE

11 a.m. – 2 p.m. BIBLE STUDY

Tuesday, 7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

If you want to attend the Sunday service or have any questions pertaining to the services we offer please contact us at odmministries@gmail.com or 470-334-6534.

In Him we are Redeemed

Leaders of the Women’s Ministry

At “Our Deliverance Ministries,” our mission is not our own but that of Christ. As ministers we are called to teach, preach and to help build God’s church into disciples. We believe in one Triune God, eternally existing in three persons Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, co-eternal in being, co-identical in nature, co-equal in power and glory, and having the same attributes and perfections.

(1 Peter 1:2; 2 Corinthians 13:14)

Here at ODM we are committed to both teaching and preaching the good news of Jesus Christ to help better our community. Here at ODM we are a house church. We believe just as scripture shows in continuing with the traditions of the early church with one mind in teaching, fellowshipping, and the breaking of bread with one another in Christ. Through this we are able to grow as one body, holding each other accountable, and continuing to be transformed through the Spirit of Christ.

The ministers here in ODM has been both trained and taught through Luther Rice Seminary. Our Senior Pastor Alexander has both served and studied the Word of God diligently and even now he is still willing to learn and grow more in his relationship with Christ through his pastoral ministry. Alex has attended and graduated from Luther Rice Seminary with a certificate in Apologetics and an Undergraduate in Biblical Studies. As a servant of Christ Alex continues to serve both in the Church and in the community sharing the good news. Here in ODM the main goal of our women’s ministry is to inspire, encourage, and uplift woman through the word of God. We do this by fulfilling our duties of being disciples, servants, and resources to those that are around us accomplishing Christ intended purpose. We want to leave you with these words of encouragement. No matter where we are in our faith always remember that we share this unified and common goal. Being in the body of Christ WE will learn that NO ONE is more important than the other and EVERYONE is essential to the growth and movement of OUR faith. We’d love for you to fellowship with us!

Our Deliverance Ministries

2510 Main St E, Snellville, Georgia, 30078

Pastor Alexander Carter Elder LaShawn Williams Deacon Malique Modeste

Briana Mack Carla Carter

Bring on the spring!

We are ready for the new growth of springtime, and we are making plans for you to enjoy the ultimate Experience in Snellville.

We have a great lineup of events this coming year starting with the ever-so-popular Food Truck Friday, Beach Blast and the Memorial Day Program. Our summer concert series lineup features Pandora’s Box - Aerosmith Tribute, Ray Howard Band-Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute, ZOSO - Led Zeppelin Tribute and the Latin Explosion giving tribute to Gloria Estefan, Selina, J.Lo and Santana. The different genres should have something for everyone to enjoy. The community concerts are free to attend but reserved VIP seating is available on our website for a nominal fee.

There is so much to experience in Snellville for business or pleasure. Our area is growing with new local businesses and The Grove continues to be an impressive new feature of Snellville. We are looking forward to its completion and the opportunities it will bring. If you are interested in being more involved in our business community, please come to a Snellville Commerce Club meeting on the first Tuesday of each month and stay connected with other leaders in our community.

The winter Farmers’ Market continues twice a month, and the summer Farmers’ Market will begin every Saturday in June. We have a great variety of local vendors each week at the market.

We are fortunate to live in a great area with great people. If you want to get more involved in the community as a volunteer for all the great events and programs Experience Snellville offers, please contact us at www.experiencesnellville.com Get Involved in 2024.

We look forward to a great year.

Don Britt, President, Experience Snellville

Connecting our Community to Celebrate Snellville

Publisher/Editor: Kelly McAloon

Editor: Brian Arrington

Snellville Spirit Magazine is produced by: Snellville Tourism & Trade Association

P.O. Box 669 • Snellville, GA 30078

Website: www.ExperienceSnellville.com

Snellville Tourism and Trade Association’s mission is to promote business, tourism and events in the City of Snellville.

President

Don Britt

Vice President

Kurt Schulz

Treasurer

Stephanie McDonald

Board Member

Melvin Everson

Board Member

Liz Jackson

Board Member

Traci Leath

Board Member

Richelle Brown

Board Member

Deborah Jones

Executive Director

Kelly McAloon

City Council

Mayor Barbara Bender, Mayor Pro Tem Tod Warner, Cristy Lenski, Gretchen Schulz, Kerry Hetherington and Norman A. Carter Jr.

City Website: www.snellville.org

Magazine Design by Brian Arrington, Kelly McAloon and pcoxcreative

Magazine Cover Design by pcoxcreative

Magazine Cover Photo by KellyMcAloon

Contributing Writers and Photographers: Kelly McAloon, Don Britt, Brian Arrington, Gretchen Schulz, Barbara Bender, pcoxcreative, Meghan Me egan, Franchesca Thompson, Lisa Sperling, Melvin Everson and Stephanie McDonald BHS dance photo by Engineered Capture.

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MAYOR’S MESSAGE

Mayor Barbara Bender looks toward an eventful spring.

PUBLIC WORKS

Only rain down the drain, please.

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ON THE BEAT

Snellville police are out and about in the community.

BEACH BLAST

Hit the beach in Snellville this spring!

THE GROVE AT TOWNE CENTER

The Grove continues to grow and draw visitors.

COMET PRIDE

Great things are happening at South Gwinnett High School.

VENDORS WANTED

Farmers’ Market looking for vendors.

PARKS AND REC

A rundown of park and Active Adult Center activities.

EASTER SERVICES

A list of Easter events at area churches.

BASKETBALL PARTNERSHIP

Parks and Recreation and church team up to offer sport.

ART TALK

The Snellville arts scene is thriving.

NEW BUSINESS

Check out the city’s latest two businesses.

FOOD ON WHEELS

The 2024 Food Truck Friday season is upon us!

BROOKWOOD NEWS

Big things are happening at Brookwood High School.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Robot training at Gwinnett Technical College.

SEEDLINGS FOR SALE

Community Garden to sell seedlings at SFM.

MEMORIAL DAY

Honor our fallen heroes at this holiday event.

20 THINGS TO DO

There’s always something going on in our area.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Get a look at Experience Snellville’s 2024 event calendar

READY TO ROCK

This years concert series features a diverse array of music.

Mayor’s Message - Mayor Barbara Bender

Spring in Snellville is upon us!

It’s a time when T.W. Briscoe Park is bustling with those looking to soak up the sunshine and shed some unwanted winter pounds. People are walking the Greenway Trail from The Grove at Towne Center all the way to Briscoe Park and - with the help of months of construction - the new sidewalks on Pinehurst Road and Skyland Drive.

The Towne Green is being prepped for a new and exciting season of events from Experience Snellville including concerts, festivals and, of course, the award-winning Snellville Farmers’ Market.

Our Public Works crews - under the leadership of new Public Works Director David Mitchell - are busy keeping our landscapes tidy and beautiful and our streets clean.

The spring season is one of change and growth and that’s no different at the $100 million The Grove at Towne Center where the new splash pad is set to open, the city market building is nearly completed and two new restaurants are under construction. It’s hard to imagine a few short years ago, the land The Grove now occupies, was peppered with two dilapidated homes, abandoned

Snellville Public Works

Be part of the solution to storm drain pollution

What is the problem?

Each time it rains, water washes over our streets, driveways, and yards picking up pollutants along the way and flowing into our storm drains. This runoff may contain pollutants such as motor oil, yard clippings, pet waste, litter, lawn chemicals, anti-freeze, or other toxins, which can pollute our water supply as well as clog pipes and culverts and can lead to flooding. Known as “Non-Point Source Pollution” it is the largest threat to our waterways today. Sometimes pollutants are dumped directly into storm drains by neighbors who don’t know any better. Contrary to popular belief, most storm drains are not connected to treatment systems. Whatever enters the drain is discharged directly, untreated into local waterways!

store fronts and a less-than-modern U.S. Post Office. It has been amazing to see how far The Grove has come and how bright our future there is.

At the time of this publication, we are extremely close to securing an operator for the city market and ground has been broken on two-new exciting restaurants - Parkside District and La Hacienda. The Marble Slab Creamery ice cream shop is close to opening, the first of the businesses located under The Grove’s townehomes. More businesses are sure to follow. These projects will join the fully occupied Tomlin Apartments, Snellville Northside Medical Center, the successful THRIVE Co-working and the extremely popular Elizabeth H. Williams Public Library.

We’re excited to show off our new downtown to you this spring and hope you’ll visit it soon and often. Enjoy all the fun and excitement springtime in Snellville has to offer.

The spring season is one of change and growth and that’s no different at the $100 million The Grove at Towne Center where the new splash pad is set to open, the city market building is nearly completed and two new restaurants are under construction.

How can you help?

The storm drain inlets on your street are being marked with a colorful marker, like the one on the front of the image on the right, with a pollution prevention message. You can help by using the following tips to prevent pollution:

•Properly dispose of hazardous waste and recycle used motor oil.

•Use fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides sparingly and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

•Keep yard waste, trash, and dirt off the street and out of the gutters.

•Clean up after your pets.

•Wash your car at a car wash facility or park your car in the grass before you wash it.

•Spread the word about protecting our waterways from polluted runoff.

Snellville Police Department

The Snellville Police Department strives to create a bond with the community it serves. To that end, officers are constantly in the community, building relationships with residents, young and old alike.

Here are a few recent community-building endeavors as well as an introduction to new officers.

1. Ofc. Hermel visiting with the Pre-K and Kindergarten children at St. Matthews Episcopal Church. Who’s having more fun?

2. Scouts came to the Snellville Police Station for a tour and a short lesson in law enforcement and civics.

3. Ofc. Hermel meets with a group of local children near City Hall.

4. Ofc. Hermel and Sgt. Smith enjoyed hanging out with a few of our new friends yesterday in front of Target and Panda Express. They provided some great information on scams and frauds as well as a little cheer, with coloring books and stuffed animals. What a beautiful day.

5. Ofc. Hermel and Ofc. Bullock visited with the young adults at the Exceptional Futures Center. The students are currently studying heroes (true and fictional), and what qualities heroes possess. We love building relationships with these young people!

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12th Annual

ByKellyMcAloon,ExecutiveDirector,ExperienceSnellville

The Snellville Beach Blast is back by popular demand on May 18, 2024!

Can’t make it to the beach... we have you covered, Snellville is bringing the beach to you on May 18, from 12 - 5 p.m.

Join us on the Towne Green in front of City Hall, 2342 Oak Road, for fun in the sun and sand as Oak Road will be transformed into a beach with 70 tons of soft white sand.

First 100 kids will receive a beach ball or a bottle of bubbles.

The event is FREE to attend. The All Day Activity Kids Zone Arm Band is $15.00 for the day and includes: The Big Kahuna Water Slide, Inflatable Slides, 80’ Inflatable Obstacle Course, Inflatable Bounce House, Inflatable Shoot the Hoop Basketball, Trackless Train Ride, Rock Wall, 9-Hole Mini Golf and the infamous Gaming Bus and Omni Virtuix (must have on sneakers to play Omni Virtuix).

Beach Blast ticket booth opens at 12 p.m. and will close promptly at 4:30 p.m.

DJ Lee will entertain us with great music, fun and games from 12 - 3 p.m. Get ready to participate in the sack races, hula hoop and water balloon contests. PanSonic Steel Band will take the stage at 3 p.m. and bring the unique sounds of the steel drums that will resonate throughout the Towne Green.

Bring your chairs or blankets to sit on and spend a fun-filled day with us on the Snellville Beach enjoying activities and listening to the sounds of island music.

Parking is available at the FREE PARKING DECK next to the Tomlin apartments. You can also park behind City Hall, the Church on Main or Snellville Community Church across the street from the Towne Green.

Includes: Big Kahuna Water Slide, Multiple Inflatables, Trackless Train, Rock Wall, Shoot the Hoop Inflatable Basketball, Omni Virtuix and 9 Hole Mini Golf.

Go to the Beach in Snellville!

Entertainment Schedule for Snellville Beach Blast

DJ Lee from 12 - 3 p.m.

Fun and games (hula hoop contests, sack races, balloon toss and much more)

PanSonics Steel Band from 3 - 5 p.m.

Climb The Rock Wall! Free Beach Balls or Free Bubbles!

Fun,

DJ

The Grove at Towne Center

City market and love blooms at The Grove

By Alex Giblin Intrepid Marketing

The highly anticipated Grove at Towne Center in the heart of Snellville continues to grow and flourish as the new year progresses. Construction is well underway on several key aspects of the project, such as the signature Market building, which is expected to be completed in the second quarter of this year. While no tenants have been formally announced, an update is expected to come soon, so stay tuned for more!

In addition to the immense progress being made on the Market building, the buildout on the restaurant buildings to house The Grove Taqueria and Parkside at The Grove have begun construction and are anticipated to be completed in the third quarter of 2024. Snellville residents will also be glad to hear that two of the project’s retailers, Marble Slab Creamery and Great American Cookie, are set to open this spring, right in time to enjoy a sweet treat in one of The Grove’s many greenspaces with the warmer weather on the way.

The most exciting news, however, is that the project as a whole is expected to be nearly complete at the conclusion of this year, with some businesses still working on the interior buildout of their spaces. After so much hard work and anticipation, it will be

great to see The Grove begin to be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike!

Construction updates aren’t the only milestones happening at The Grove, however. Recently, the pavilion saw its first wedding, as long-time Gwinnett County residents Jair and Mariah Matthews tied the knot on a serene cloudy day in February underneath The Grove’s centerpiece.

Jair and Mariah have been together for about two years, but have known each other much longer, as they became acquainted as coworkers back in 2017. Mariah is a self-described social butterfly and ball of energy, while Jair is the complete opposite, calm and observant, taking longer to “crack his shell” and open up. When they met, Mariah was determined to do just that, not because she was interested in him romantically, but because she loves to bring

The Grove at Towne Center

people out of their comfort zones and see them thrive. After about a year of getting to know each other in a work setting and Jair sheepishly admitting he thought her name was “Jasmine,” the two formed a fast friendship.

When Jair went into the military in 2019, he and Mariah parted ways. After several years of prayers on both sides that they would reunite, their wishes came true two years later when he reached out via social media, and old feelings were brought back to the surface. They started an official relationship and fell in love; the rest is history!

The couple’s original intention was to get married last year, but due to life circumstances, they figured it would be best to wait. They picked out a venue and are planning a traditional celebration set for May to gather with friends and family that are out of state. While the official wedding ceremony is sure to be a very fun celebration of their love, the two wanted something a bit more sacred and intimate for the start of their marriage, and in true lovebird fashion, just couldn’t wait to be officially married.

Local marketing students create winning social media campaigns for The Grove

Last year, the city created a competition targeting creative marketing enthusiasts at area schools tasking them with leveraging the skills they had been taught in the classroom, participants were charged with crafting a compelling marketing campaign to attract young people to come and visit The Grove. The campaign’s objective? Position The Grove as a vibrant hub for socializing, learning, dining, shopping, and unwinding. All forms of creative expression were encouraged, as long as they effectively communicated this overarching message.

Two local students at Collins Hill High School, Doris and Joselyn, heard about the Shark Tank-style competition from their Marketing and Entrepreneurship teacher. She asked if anyone in the class would be interested in participating, and like the tenacious students they are, these two jumped at the chance to put what they had learned in the classroom into practice and gain real-world experience creating a marketing campaign. Never did they expect that they would end up winning the competition!

Doris, a junior at Collins Hill High School, was raised in a small rural town in Vietnam for 12 years and then moved to America during the early years of the pandemic without knowing any English. She did not let this challenge stop her from success, however. After getting straight Cs in seventh grade because she didn’t know any English, she is now a consistent straight-A student and leader in her school as the president-elect of the National Honor Society and Gwinnett Asian American Student Association, Vice President of Marketing in DECA, and ICC Representative for BETA. She has won two other marketing awards at her high school, including Outstanding Student in Principles of Marketing and Outstanding Student in Marketing Management.

The other competition winner is Joselyn, a senior at Collins Hill High School and the oldest of three siblings. She is Mexican-American, and as a hard-working and determined student, is proud to be the first in her family to attend university. In addition to her regular high school classes, she is also a dual enrollment student at Georgia Gwinnett College and Toccoa Falls College online. She will be going to the University of West Georgia in the fall to study Economics Business and intends to get her master’s degree after completing her undergraduate degree.

When the two heard about the competition from their teacher, they immediately got to work crafting their campaigns. They spent time thinking about what their peers enjoy and what would inspire them to come out to The Grove. Joselyn in particular focused on her desire to go out with friends and family and experience community and fun events together. In light of this, she chose to create campaigns around events that would be hosted to draw young people out, such as a summer shopping event. Doris chose to focus on the human element, featuring graphics of people in her post, hoping that those that saw her campaign would picture themselves at The Grove, and be enticed to go check it out.

DORIS

JOCELYN

South Gwinnett High School

South Gwinnett earns accolades at county Science Fair

South Gwinnett High School is proud to announce its exceptional showing at the prestigious Gwinnett Science, Engineering, and Innovation Fair.

Despite stiff competition, the talented SGHS students secured an impressive array of awards, including 2nd, 3rd, and Honorable Mention placements across various categories.

“As we celebrate their accomplishments, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the participants for their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm,” a statement from the school reads. “We are immensely proud of their achievements and look forward to their continued success in future endeavors.”

The students had the privilege of observing a live robotic surgery, igniting their passion for innovation in healthcare. Witnessing groundbreaking techniques firsthand fuels their career aspirations and reinforces their commitment to excellence in medicine.

There was a ribbon-cutting ceremony opening the South Gwinnett High School Parent Teacher Student Organization Teacher’s Lounge. The much-needed upgrade was made possible through funds raised by the PTSO and their sponsors: Office Creations, Kazzwell Painting and Salvation & Deliverance Church. The event took place Feb. 29.

Snellville Farmers’ Market

Vendors wanted at Farmers’ Market

By Gretchen Schulz Councilmember Market organizer

Have you visited the Snellville Farmers’ Market, wandered around and shopped at the many vendor booths, and thought “I would love to be a part of this?”

The market is currently accepting vendor applications for the 2024 summer season, which begins June 1 and continues every Saturday through Sept. 28. The market is held on the Towne Greene from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Vendors may sign up for the full season or select a minimum of four markets throughout the season. On market days vendors may arrive as early as 6:45 am to set up and are expected to be ready to serve customers by the market opening.

The market is especially interested in vendors that can add unique products that are significantly different from those already available. For a list of vendors and the products they sell see the “Vendor Resources” tab on the market website: snellvillefarmersmarket.com. The vendor application and booth fee information can also be found there. Applicants must submit the required documents listed on the application to be considered.

Until the summer market opens in June, our “extended season” market continues to offer fresh local produce, locally raised meats, honey, eggs, delicious baked goods, treats for your fur baby, and bath and body care products. Extended season markets are held in the Snellville City Hall parking lot on the first and third Saturdays of each month through May, 9 a.m. to noon.

Snellville Parks and Recreation

Summer Youth Kickball • Register Now

Briscoe Park is open daily 2500 Sawyer Parkway 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. 770-985-3535

Oak Road Park

1925 Oak Road (Passive neighborhood park)

Park office is open Monday - Friday from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (closed 12-1 p.m.). For more information on registration and classes, check out the Parks and Recreation Department on Snellville’s website at www. snellville.org/parks-recreation.

Registration for programs, leagues and rentals is now online at www. snellville.recdesk.com.

Please “like” our Facebook page for more information on our upcoming events and happenings: www.facebook.com/SnellvilleParks.

Register NOW for summer youth kickball for 9u, 12u & 15u. For more information visit www.quickscores.com/snellville

Outdoor tennis courts are available on a firstcome-first-served basis or can be rented at Snellville.recdesk.com. Not all of the courts may be available at all times if tennis Instructor or ALTA teams are utilizing the courts.

Registration for summer camp for ages 6-12 is now open! Starting at $200/ week. Registration info at www.snellville. recdesk.com.

Tennis instruction, clinics, camps, and leagues by certified tennis instructors at Briscoe Park visit www.aetennis.com or call 470-417-4547.

Adult sports information visit www. quickscores.com/snellville.

Generals Athletic Club, offers sport programs and mentorship to the Snellville and Shiloh community. Information: www.gac-sports.org .

For information on youth soccer at Briscoe park visit www.allinfc.com

For more information on youth flag football visit www.falconsflagfootball. com

Jazzercise is held Monday, Wednesday and Thursday from 5-6 p.m. at Briscoe Park. For more details email: jazzercisesnellville@gmail.com.

Martial Arts is held at Briscoe Park on Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. Call 770354-1510 for more information.

Upcoming events: Spring edition Car Show @ Briscoe Park- April 20th 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Snellville Parks and Recreation - Active Adult Center

The Snellville Active Adult Center is for adults 50 and older and is located next to Snellville City Hall. Membership is $25 for Gwinnett County Residents, $15 for City Limit Residents and $30 for those outside of Gwinnett County. The Center is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For class times, dates and fees, call 770-985-3580. Check out our Facebook page at facebook.com/snellvillescactiveadults.

Aerobics

Free with membership

Mondays and Thursdays

9:15 a.m. and 10:15 a.m.

Yoga

$5 per class

Tuesdays 10 a.m.

Crochet and knitting

Free with membership

12 p.m., Tuesdays

Spanish classes

Offered for Beginners, Spanish Level 1

Intermediate and Conversational

Tuesdays & Thursdays, call 770-985-3580 for times and days.

Also:

Daytrips and Overnight Trips

Pinochle

Devotional Study

Bowling

Greeting Card-making class

Card playing groups

Piano Lessons

Sign Language Class

Beginning computer, smartphone and tablet classes.

Billiards

Bingo (First Fridays)

Exercise and weight room

Line Dancing

Twist & Tone

And Much More

City, church partner for basketball league

By Brian Arrington Public Information Officer

The City of Snellville Parks and Recreation Department and Snellville Community Church recently teamed up to offer a youth basketball league, a partnership that filled gaps for both organizations.

The league of about 40 area children took place at the church’s gymnasium, offering indoor space Parks and Recreation doesn’t currently have. In turn, dozens of children and their parents got to learn more about the church and utilize it’s vast recreation space.

“As a community church, our sense of identity - some call it mission - requires us to partner with our community,” SCC Senior Pastor Dr. Quincy Brown said. “We believe we’re called to inspire and transform young people and their families in South Gwinnett through partnerships. One of these partnerships is with city/government agencies, schools, non-profits, businesses, and neighborhoods. Our collaboration with Snellville Parks and Recreation meets one of our five focus areas as we work together to make a better Snellville. Because we have gym space, and Parks and Recreation doesn’t have an inside facility, it made sense for us to partner in the youth basketball league.”

Brown said the partnership helps the church community build relationships with families and young people in the South Gwinnett area. The partnership gives the community a safe indoor space to learn, play, and grow through recreational activities, he said, adding the church looks forward to other opportunities to continue its partnership with Snellville Parks and Recreation.

The partnership allows the city to offer the league while it awaits the construction of a new Community Center which will

house basketball courts. In the meantime, the church offers a perfect fit for the youth sports program, city officials said.

“ With the joint effort between two passionate community partners, it allows us to offer more quality programs to the Snellville community and it truly brings the community together,” said Parks and Recreation Director Lisa A. Platt, CPRP. “We will continue to offer basketball through this partnership but there are definitely plans to offer other services. We were thrilled with the success of the first season and we can’t wait to see the basketball program grow. We had a great community partner in the church, dedicated coaches and supportive parents and families.”

With the success of the Snellville Park’s and Recreation’s annual November car show, another one has been added April 20. For seven years the November Cool Cars @ Briscoe Park has been a hit with car connoisseurs and casual visitors alike. And now, there will be two each year - one in November and one in April. The April car show will alternate between charities but the November car show will continue to support the Snellville Police Department Shop with a Cop program. It is a $20 donation to enter the show, the proceeds of which go to the Snellville Veterans of Foreign Wars for the April show. The April 20 event will take place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at T.W. Briscoe Park, 2500 Sawyer Parkway. A rain-out date has been set for April 27. The event is open to all makes and models and includes more than 20 awards. Admission is free to spectators. There will be vendors, food and music. If you are interested in becoming a vendor, e-mail mmeegan@snellville.org.

Focus on the Arts

Snellville excels in award-winning arts

The Focus on the Arts is kicking off with an award-winning winter in Snellville’s arts community!

Just to name a few - congratulations are due for South Gwinnett’s All-Starz Dance Team who performed at a recent Atlanta Hawks game and Brookwood’s Theatre’s Troupe 3678 who earned Superior Scores on all three of their performance pieces at this year’s ThesCon. At the iTheatrics International Junior Theatre Festival, Snellville Performing Arts and Momentum Arts both earned the Excellence in Acting Award and SPA’s Bianca Dixon (Belle) earned the Outstanding Performance by an Individual award!

Recently, schools and community groups all over the state participated in two Regional Georgia Tournaments for the Odyssey of the Mind (OM) competition. OM is a worldwide program that teaches students how to develop and use their natural creativity to become problem-solvers through a dramatic long-term problem and a spontaneous improv problem. This year, six teams represented the city of Snellville and four of those teams scored high enough to advance to the state competition! Congratulations to our competing teams from Brookwood High School, Momentum Arts, and Snellville Performing Arts on your OM weekend!

Along with the rest of Gwinnett’s best young visual artists, student art from the Brookwood and South Gwinnett cluster schools will be on rotating display from February 22 through March 21 during the Gwinnett County Public Schools Tapestry event! This event takes place at the Alvin J. Wilbanks Instructional Support Center where visitors can roam the student art exhibit at their

Various tapestries at a recent Gwinnett County Public Schools show.

leisure. The exhibit is open MondayFriday from 8 a.m.8 p.m., Saturdays from 7 a.m.- 4 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. -6 p.m.

As the weather warms up, so does the calendar for Snellville’s arts programming! See below for upcoming performances, concerts, and productions from our cluster schools and community organizations:

At Brookwood High School, enjoy the Taste of Brookwood benefitting the BHS Band (March 23), Spring Chorus Performance (May 2-3), Brookwood Community K-12 Art Show (April 24), Spring Orchestra Concert (April 23), Orchestra Seniors/Alumni Concert (May 4), Spring Band Concert (May 7), Spring Dance Show (May 9-11), and the BHS Drama Department’s production of Urinetown (April 25-27) and Blithe Spirit (March 21-23).

Brookwood High School All-State Chorus performers.

At South Gwinnett High School, enjoy the Band of Stars’ Spring Cluster Show (May 3), Spring Chorus Show (May 16), Spring Dance Show (April 22-26), Spring Orchestra Concert (May 9) and the SGHS Drama department’s production of Our Place (April 18) and Skit Wars (April 19).

Around our community, we have several other opportunities to see performances throughout the Spring! Don’t miss Snellville Performing Arts: Mean Girls (May 10-12) and Seussical, Jr (April 18-21); Triple 7 Dance Company: Evolution Showcase (March 16); Momentum Arts: These Shining Lives (April 20), The Big One-Oh, Jr (April 27), and Seussical, Jr (May 11); and School of Rock: Mid-Season Show at Tucker Brewing Company (March 24) and Spring Final Season Show at Atmosphere Atlanta (May 19).

Finally, looking forward to summer, Snellville is hosting tons of fun workshops, classes, activities, and summer camps! Check out Cobble Creek Studios, School of Rock, Snellville Performing Arts, Triple 7 Dance, Momentum Arts, Pen to Paper Your Magic and more right here in Snellville for an amazing art-filled summer for all ages!

South Gwinnett High School Dance Team performed at a Hawks game.

Snellville Performing Arts Junior Theater Festival with trophy.

Avoiding Scams

Snellville police: Protect yourself from identity theft, scams

The Snellville Police Department offers materials and resources on how to protect yourself against identity theft, how to avoid a scam, and many other important topics.

From protecting your personal data to cyber-crimes, social media hacking, street cons, and how to recover if you become the victim of identity theft, the valuable guides include information and advice for all audiences, from students to seniors.

For more information on how to protect yourself, please contact Officer Scott Hermel at shermel@ snellville.org

•Free

•Heated

•Fitness

RIBBON CUTTINGS

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In Snellville

If you are opening a new business in Snellville, give us a call, we’d like to meet you and welcome you to Snellville! Call 770-985-3517 for more information.

City of Snellville, GA - City Hall and Experience Snellville officials welcomed the city’s newest business Feb. 14 as a ribbon cutting ceremony took place at The Print Lounge, located at 2302 Henry Clower Blvd., Suite B. The business utilizes direct-to-film printing, which cuts down on cost and the time it takes to make an item like a customized T-shirt. The detail of the image can also be more detailed than screen printing and lasts longer, the shop owners said.

For more information on The Print Lounge visit theprintloungebba.com.

City and Experience Snellville officials welcomed the newest business to the city March 1 during a ribboncutting ceremony at Culture Foods Market, located at 1711 Athens Highway, Suite 800 Crestview Plaza. The market offers Caribbean and African foods and accessories.

For more information visit culturefoodsmarket.com.

Do You Need Help Caring for a Love One? NEW BUSINESS

By Brian Arrington, Public Information Officer

A five-story, 102-room Hampton Inn & Suites will be built in the city following a unanimous vote by the Mayor and Council earlier this year.

The 64,400-square-foot building will be located in Park Place, a development located at the corner of Pharrs Road and Scenic Highway which recently saw the grand opening of Cracker Barrel, Freddie’s, Zaxby’s and Aspen Dental.

There had been concerns the hotel would cause traffic issues at the busy intersection, but, according to the developers, daily trips would be reduced by nearly two thirds of what was previously approved for a 12,000-square-foot restaurant.

“There is a need in the city for a quality limited-service hotel in the Scenic Highway Commercial Corridor as there are very few options for travelers to utilize while staying in the area,” said Planning and Development Director Jason Thompson. “Eastside Medical Center, adjacent restaurants, retail businesses and neighboring residents could all benefit from having a nice Hampton

Inn & Suites by Hilton within the city. Finally, Hampton Inn & Suites, under the Hilton (Hotels) umbrella, has a reputation for being a high-quality brand and product that would be an asset to the city for many years to come.”

And just this month, paperwork was filed to bring an Outback Steakhouse to Park Place.

■ Affordable nightly, weekly and monthly rates

■ Average suite features over 300 square feet of comfortable living area

■ Each room includes a separate living area, ample work space with desk, remote control cable tv with HBO or Showtime, iron and ironing board, and in-room hi-speed Internet access

■ Apartment size kitchen with refrigerator, two-burner stovetop, full size microwave, in-room coffee maker, in-room toaster, dishes, cookware & utensils, and a well-lit kitchen table/work area

With over 50 years of combined experience in the Gold buying industry, we are confident that we can offer top dollar for your Gold and Silver.

Firearm Sales

In our Firearm department we have a wide variety of new and used firearms with a staff that is friendly knowledgeable and willing to help.

$Cash Loans$

At Hill Top Pawn we specialize in loaning out cash! We loan money on just about anything with amounts up to $10,000

Gold, Guns, Electronics, Tools, Instruments, Sporting Goods, Cars, Trailers, Boats, Motorcycles and more. (All loans are collateral based)

Brookwood High School

Swim and Dive Lady Broncos take first at state

At the 2024 GHSA 7A Swimming & Diving State Championships, the Brookwood High School girls’ team returned to the top of the state podium after chalking up 136.5 points more than second-place team from North Gwinnett. The decisive win came at the end of an undefeated season and the program’s 10th consecutive county title. In 2019, Brookwood won both the girls’ and the boys’ state championships.

The girls’ state team boasts two winning relays and two individual state champions. Chloe Brothers won gold in diving, and Hailey Dopson for the 100-yard backstroke. Hailey also swam on the two winning relays (200-medley relay: Hailey Dopson, Addison Curtis, Margaret Cohen, and Nicole Amike, and 200-freestyle relay:

International Festival draws more than 1,000; poised to award $4,000

On March 2, The International Club at Brookwood High School hosted its seventh annual festival celebrating the school’s diverse population. After months of planning and promotion, the club was confident it could sell more tickets than the theater could accommodate, so it offered two showtimes, one before and one after a cultural fair portion of the daylong event. More than 200 students representing 40 countries participated the productions of dance and fashion shows. In The Commons, a dozen school organizations grounded in foreign nations and languages offered food and activities.

More than 1,000 attended the almost daylong event, making it

In all, 23 Lady Broncos competed in the 2024 state championships. According to Head Coach Will Hildebrand, this year’s win was a culmination of factors. “The girls were truly a committed sisterhood of athletes, and our team captains who took their leadership roles seriously. We also had an incredible parent base that supported every aspect of the program. I couldn’t ask for more.”

Brookwood Swim and Dive boasts a legacy of championship titles, Olympic Games and Olympic time trial athletes, and pool of talent from throughout the Brookwood cluster.

the club’s biggest festival yet. From the $8,000 raised through ticket sales, up to half will go toward the club’s scholarship program for its senior officers. Past officers and scholarship recipients have attended Yale University, Emory University, University of Georgia, and Boston University. The International Club will use the remaining funds to collaborate with other cultural clubs at the school.

Brookwood teacher Alison Lai who serves as a club sponsor believes that the success of the festival and Brookwood’s culture overall reflects unity and inclusion. “The best part of this festival was not only seeing students take pride in displaying their culture and heritage but seeing them embrace everyone else’s.” Ms. Lai is eager to expand the festival into a school-wide initiative involving even more staff and parent volunteers in the coming years.

Nicole Amike, Sophia Hamilton, Emma Greene, Hailey Dopson).

Economic Development

Gwinnett Tech expands medical offerings

By Melvin Everson Vice President of Economic Development Gwinnett Technical College

As every segment of the business and industry world is traversing more into the technological universe and so, has the medical field. As with all workforce needs, the medical field has evolved rapidly As such, Gwinnett Technical College continues to keep up with the changing workforce times and needs.

Gwinnett Tech students enter the workforce utilizing modern technology and innovative equipment. A little over a year ago, a representative from Intuitive Surgical, a very innovative manufacturing company in California representative met with Partnership Gwinnett, Georgia Commission of Economic Development and Gwinnett Technical College Economic Development staff to explore the possibility of setting up operations here in Gwinnett County.

With all economic opportunities of this magnitude, much discussion occurred to ensure such a move would be successful and economically beneficial for all. Intuitive was most comfortable with what Georgia and Gwinnett County had to offer and decided to open a facility in Peachtree Corners.

Intuitive Surgical makes the DaVinci Robots that perform surgery in numerous hospitals around the globe. No doubt, many of you who are reading this article have had or know of someone whose had surgery performed by a DaVinci Robot. Intuitive Surgical relies

Economic Development

upon a well-trained and skilled workforce to meet its growing needs.

On a recent tour of this multi-million-dollar investment facility in Peachtree Corners, it was quite evident that technology has catapulted surgical operations to a new level. With this technology and a well trained and educated work force, doctors can now detect and treat major diseases such as cancer more precisely and in a timelier fashion.

Intuitive Surgical is a very vital part of Gwinnett’s economic success and college officials are thankful for a great and rewarding partnership that will create more economic opportunities.

The Da Vinci Surgical System is a robotic surgical system that uses a minimally invasive surgical approach. The system is manufactured by the company Intuitive Surgical. The system is used for prostatectomies, increasingly for cardiac valve repair and for renal and gynecologic surgical procedures.

Gwinnett Technical College is a public technical school in the U.S. state of Georgia with campuses in Lawrenceville and Alpharetta. It is a unit of the Technical College System of Georgia and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Since opening its doors as the Gwinnett Area Technical School in 1984, the college has added numerous programs of study, made two name changes, expanded its facilities and experienced enrollment growth. Currently, the Lawrenceville campus is 88 acres and the Alpharetta-North Fulton Campus is 25 acres.

Address: 5150 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville

Phone: 770-962-7580

Website: Gwinnetttech.edu

Community Garden @ Snellville

Community Garden seedlings to be sold at SFM

By Gretchen Schulz Councilmember Garden organizer

Now that the temperature is hopefully warming up, many of us are dreaming of homegrown tomatoes, beautiful lettuce for a salad, or a hot pepper to spice things up.

A team of dedicated gardeners from the Community Garden @ Snellville, led by Master Gardener Wes Nettleton, has been carefully nurturing vegetable and flower seedlings in the garden greenhouse. The gardeners plan to offer the seedlings for sale on three dates at the Snellville Farmer’s Market: March 16, April 6 and April 20. The market is held in the City Hall parking lot from 9 a.m. to noon. In addition, they also plan to participate in the Snellville Parks and Recreation’s Family Fun Day event on March 23 in Briscoe Park from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Some of the members of the garden’s Greenhouse Team will be available at each of the sales to provide assistance with plant selection and information on caring for the plants.

Seedlings that will be offered for sale include multiple varieties of tomatoes, including those best suited for slicing and making tomato sauce, as well as cherry tomatoes and varieties that can be suitable for container gardening. Many types of peppers will be available, including both hot and sweet varieties. Zucchini, eggplant, squash, arugula, lettuce, and okra are just a few of the vegetable plants that will be available as well as herbs, including basil, rosemary, sage, thyme, parsley, catnip and cilantro. Some flowers will be available for purchase, including several types of marigolds, zinnias, celosia, cosmos, and sunflowers. All plants listed may not be available at each sale as the selection will depend on their growth progress in the greenhouse.

All plants are priced at $2 for a 4-pack or, in the case of larger plants, $2 for a single plant. All proceeds from the sale are used to support the Community Garden.

In addition, the garden has a few beds available for rental for the next garden year, which begins April 1, 2024 and continues through March 31, 2025. Most beds in the garden are 4-footby-12-foot, but a small number of 4-foot-by-8-foot beds may be available. The bed rental fees are $35 for a 4-foot-by-8-foot bed for those who live within the Snellville city limits and $50 for those who live outside.

The 4-foot-by-12-foot beds are $50 and $65 respectively.

Gardeners are expected to consistently maintain their bed so the garden as a whole is attractive. Gardeners are also asked to give 6 hours per bed throughout the year for the maintenance of the common areas of the garden.

Work mornings are generally held every few weeks on Saturdays during warmer weather. Gardeners may also work to maintain common areas of the garden as their schedule allows. The application to rent a bed is on our website: snellvillecommunitygarden.com.

Rob Stewart filling seed trays with soil.

Ellen Hughes tending to seedlings in the greenhouse.

12TH ANNUAL SNELLVILLE MEMORIAL PROGRAM

H May 25th 4:30 PM

HTO BE H ELD IN FRONT OF THE VETERANS MEMORIAL

Current Prices:

4x8 Paver ........$140.00

8x8 Paver ........$195.00

6X6 Tiles (Veterans Only)........$140.00

Direct delivery of Replica to home.............

Replica.........$60.00

Replica.........$85.00

Replica.........$60.00

Additional....$10.00

Order tiles and pavers online at: https://www.thatsmybrick.com/snellville

Order the banners at: kelmca@comcast.net

We hope you will take the opportunity and join us to remember those who served to protect our freedom. The Button Gwinnett Color Guard and Militia and SGHS JROTC Comet Battalion will take part in the program. OrderbyApril15,2024tohaveyourtile,paverorbannerdisplayedforMemorialDay.

Current Price:

Banners will be displayed on the light posts on Oak Road and Wisteria approximately 30 days prior the Memorial Day holiday and again 30 days prior to the Veterans Day holiday. $175.00 for two years

Tile Paver

Banner

T.W. Briscoe Park - 1.6 mi

Visit beautiful Briscoe Park and check out all the things it has to offer including two softball fields, two indoor rental rooms, four outdoor open-air pavilions, outdoor pool, 1.2 mile paved walking trail, 6-acre lake, tennis courts, basketball courts, and much more!

Stone Mountain Park - 8.4 mi

One of Atlanta’s favorite destinations for the entire family. Nestled in 3200 acres of natural beauty, Stone Mountain Park features family-friendly attractions and outdoor recreational activities. Seasonal events are offered throughout the year that will definitely delight every member of the family.

Creekwater Alpaca Farm - 5.6 mi

Saltville Grotto & Spa - 0.2 mi

fromSnellvilleCityHall

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds - 5.6 mi

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds offers a wide variety of events every weekend. Some of the upcoming events include: Repticon, Gwinnett Amateur Radio Society Tech Fest, Intergalactic Bead Show, Dog Shows, Loomis Circus, Boys Scouts, All About Kids and much more. For more information: gwinnettcountyfair.com/events

The unique farm in Snellville, Ga. has been home to over 50 alpacas since 1993. We offer a safe, close up, hands-on experience unlike any other. Bring the family and enjoy petting the alpacas in their pen and seeing the bunnies and goats too! Guinea Fowl and Tolouse Geese also call Creekwater home. Enjoy it all with public or private tours. Visit our gift shop!

Yellow River Wildlife Sanctuary - 5 mi

Explore one of Georgia’s most iconic landmarks. Located in central Gwinnett alongside Yellow River, just minutes from Snellville. We are home to the original Bison herd, beautiful peacocks, albino wallabies, babydoll sheep, alpacas, fallow deer, spider monkeys, and much more.

Saltville Grotto & Spa will be your salty oasis in Snellville. We offer both wet and dry salt therapies such as floatation and a salt cave. In addition, you can get a massage, foot massage or ionic foot detox. Or maybe a session in our infrared sauna is more your style.

Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament - 11 mi

Welcome to our castles! It is our honor to provide you with an unforgettable experience of rivalry, feasting and fun! Epic battles of steel and steed, beyond the strength lies the power of charm.

Snellville Veterans Memorial - 0.1 mi

The Snellville Veterans Memorial is a state-of-the-art Memorial where locals and visitors stop by to reflect and pay homage to those who fought so selflessly for our freedom. “FREEDOM IS NEVER FREE.”

Urban Air Adventure Park - 3.7 mi

If you are looking for the best yearround indoor amusement park in the Snellville and Gwinnett County area, Urban Air Adventure Park is the perfect place. Come have fun with us on the Go-Karts, Trampolines, Wipeout, and zip line. An absolute must – check out the Skydiving attraction!

Mountain Dino Fest - 8.4 mi

Experience the all new Dino Fest March 16, 2024 - April 28, 2024

Come and celebrate the Latino Family Festival, May 4 -19

Stone

Lincoln Fill Station - 0.9 mi

Based in Snellville, we are north Georgia’s prime destination for craft beer and fine cigars. Whatever the weather, our covered patio and indoor lounge is the best place to enjoy delicious craft beers 7 days a week, 365 days a year. We have food trucks on site Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons.

Niko’s Wine Corner - .9 mi

Dragon Queen Winery - 1 mi

Veteran owned and operated. Has a large selection of wines that can be shipped to Georgia customers only. Stop in and try our new wines and the delicious wine slushies. Wine tastings end 30 minutes prior to closing.

Come visit Niko’s Wine Corner in Snellville and meet new owners Regina Koranteng and Seth Wiredu. They carry exotic beers that are not available in many package and grocery stores. In addition to the very extensive selection of great wines and craft beers, they have Gwinnett County’s first wine bar. Three Enomatic wine tasting machines provide an extensive and changing array of 32 amazing white and red wines. Weekly wine tasting events available.

Slow Pour Brewing - 7.8 mi

Gwinnett County’s first brewery features the beautifully inviting tasting room and beer garden beckoning friends to sit and chat, in a family friendly atmosphere. Slow Pour offers delicious, innovative and original beers. Several nights a week there will be live music with food trucks on site. Dog friendly brewery.

Tucker Brewing - 13 mi

Illuminarium - 23 mi

Illuminarium is an experience like no other. It immerses guests with innovative multi-sensory content where sights, sounds and sensations come together in a 360º - 30,000 square feet sensory space. It’s virtual reality, but not as we know it.

Southeastern Railway Museum - 14 mi

Georgia’s Official Transportation Museum - featuring the largest collection of “rolling stock” in Georgia.

Proud to be named #4 Best Beer Garden in America by USA Today! Tucker Brewing Company is Georgia’s premium lager brewery, dedicated to making easyto-drink, flavorful lager beers. This is a family owned lager brewery inspired by German brewing traditions and honors the Southern roots of its owners. We strive every day to create a warm environment where family and friends can come together to appreciate beer, food and life.

Stars and Strikes

Entertainment Center/Bowling - 5.4 mi

This family entertainment center boasts over 30,000 sq. ft. of fun! Guests are greeted at Stars and Strikes with upgraded bowling, an exciting arcade and a full-service restaurant and bar.

The Complex Sports & Entertainment - approx 20 mi

The Complex offers over 30 different sports games and activities all under one roof. From cricket to baseball, experience numerous sports like never before and new ones for the very first time.

Andretti Indoor Karting & Games - 16 mi

Excitement at every turn, Andretti’s offers Karting, Andretti 7D Experience, Duckpin Bowling, Arcade, Racing Simulators, Two-level Laser Tag, Hologate and a dining bar. Join our E-club and be on the inside track for exclusive specials, promotions and just general awesomeness tailored to what you want to do!

MAY

May 03 | 4-8 PM

Food Truck Friday

May 18 | 12-5 PM

Snellville Beach Blast

May 25 | 4:30-5:30 PM

Memorial Celebration

May 25 | 6-9 PM

Live on the Lawn Pandora’s Box

Aerosmith Tribute

JUNE/JULY

June 01 | 8:30 AM-12:30 PM

Award Winning Farmers’ Market (Every Saturday on the Towne Green)

June 07 | 4-8 PM

Food Truck Friday

July 04 | 4-10 PM

Star Spangled Snellville

July 20 | 6-9 PM

Live on the Lawn Concert Ray Howard Band

Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER

August 02 | 4-8 PM

Food Truck Friday

August 24 | 6-9 PM

Live on the Lawn

ZOSO - Led Zeppelin Tribute

September 06 | 4-8 PM

Food Truck Friday

September 14 | 4-8 PM

International Taste of Snellville

September 28 | 6-9 PM

Live on the Lawn - Latin Explosion featuring tributes to Gloria Estefan, Selina, JLO and Santana

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER

October 04 | 4-8 PM

Food Truck Friday

October 19 | 12-6 PM

Snellville Fall Festival

November 11 | 3-4 PM

Veterans Celebration

November 30 | 5-8 PM

Christmas Tree Lighting

November 30 | 5:30-6:30 PM

Lighted Christmas Parade

MARKET OCTOBER - MAY 1st and 3rd Saturday in City Hall Parking Lot 9 AM - 12 PM

May 25

Box Aerosmith Tribute

July 20

Ray Howard’s Earth, Wind & Fire Tribute

All Concerts from 6 - 9 PM Opening Acts - 6 PM Main Acts - 7 PM

August 24

Led Zeppelin Tribute

Latin Explosion Featuring tributes to Gloria Estefan, Selina, J.Lo and Santana

September 28

Pandora’s

Zoso