September/October 2021

SPECIAL 15-PAGE SUWANEE FEST GUIDE! SEPT / OCT 21 BACK ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: Carlos Fuller, Sam Horn, Carson Thomas FRONT ROW LEFT TO RIGHT: Jaayman Rochell, River Wilson

HIGH SCHOOL

SPIRIT SQUAD 2021

2021 FALL FESTIVALS & ATTRACTIONS GUIDE

OUR ANNUAL GUIDE IS JAM-PACKED WITH FUN WAYS TO FILL YOUR FALL CALENDAR!

FROM ROUTINE CARE TO COMPLEX PROCEDURES OUR EXPERT TEAM IS HERE FOR YOUR HEART

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With the support of the Northside network, including the latest technology and the leading facilities, our experts are ready to treat any cardiac condition. From preventative care and blood pressure management all the way to advanced surgeries—we provide Excellence at Heart.

Find a provider near you with over 50 locations across Metro Atlanta. Scan the QR code to learn more.

EXCELLENCE AT HEART

SEPT / OCT 21

2021 High School Spirit Squad Meet some of our local star athletes and musicians, chosen by their coaches and directors to represent their schools based on their dedication, hard work, and school spirit.

10 Business Spotlight: Revive IV Lounge Revive IV Lounge specializes in IV therapies and wellness services to help individuals reach optimal health, function, and performance.

Meet Emilee Akins, part of our 2021 Spirit Squad, on p. 63

15 Investment Strategies

PHOTO BY PAUL PERDUE

Suwanee’s Aileron Investment Advisors, a comprehensive planning firm run by father-anddaughter team Bill and Cindi Porter, address if it’s too late to invest in the stock market.

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Fall Festivals & Attractions Guide Our annual guide to local fall fun is jam-packed with ways to fill your calendar all season long, including our favorite upcoming festivals and events around town.

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Guide to Suwanee Fest All the details on this year's annual two-day celebration of community!

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF NETHERWORLD

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PHOTO BY KARL LAMB

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Restaurant Spotlight:

Falling Rabbit

Chuck and Barbara Woods bring an elevated yet approachable dining experience to downtown Duluth with their new restaurant.

44 Back to School Pics

Back in August, we asked our readers to submit their kiddos’ back-to-school photos and we’re excited to feature some of the smiling faces from the first day of school!

72 Ironshield Brewing

Lawrenceville’s newest brewery is making a name for itself with its authentic reproduction of famous European styles of beer.

76 StillFire Brewing

Find out what's brewing at Suwanee's Hometown Brewery!

IN EVERY ISSUE: 6 Editor’s Letter 9 Currently Loving 14 Heal Yourself 360 43 Family Matters 78 Party Hacks with Nat 80 The Buzz 90 Sugar Hill City Buzz 92 People & Places 96 Event Calendar

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letter a note from our managing editor

Fall is in the Air! T'S FINALLY the beginning of the best time of the year!

As we close the chapter on summer this Labor Day weekend, we can finally shift gears to sweaters and lattes, football and festivals. I know that many people love summer.

And I get it. Beach vacations, pool parties and tank tops, they are all nice, but I will always be a fall kind of girl.

The end of September ushers in trips to our favorite pumpkin patches, we go in search of the perfect fall wreath for our front doors, and we add a little spice to our coffees. The leaves begin to paint the landscape with beautiful autumn hues, and then suddenly, Halloween kicks off the holiday season, with Thanksgiving, Hanukkah and Christmas soon following suit. Before you know it, twinkling lights will start to go up all around our downtown areas. But let’s get back to fall.

One of our favorite things about fall, especially in the South, is that it’s finally football season again! This year, we wanted to highlight some of our local high school football athletes along with members of the cheerleading teams and marching band. Together, they form what we believe is the Ultimate Spirit Squad!

We can’t wait to watch them take the field again this year. Read more about these awesome students on p. 46.

In addition to football, fall festivals are finally back on the calendar. On p. 16, we’ve highlighted some of our favorite local

Suwanee Wine Fest

festivals, like Suwanee Wine Fest, Duluth Fall returns on Nov. 6, 2021, with unlimited Festival, Taste of BBQ, and more! There’s even samples of more a 15-page guide to Suwanee Fest beginning than 150 wines from on p. 27, which returns to Town Center Park on around the world.

Sept. 18 and 19, with a pirate theme and all the fun you’ve come to expect from this beloved event.

In addition to these annual events, we’re excited to announce a new event, the Spooky Spirits 5K, which offers a cocktails and costumes twist on the traditional 5K! Learn more on p. 23.

Fall is also the perfect time to visit one of our new favorite breweries, Ironshield Brewing, which is brewing authentic European-style beers in downtown Lawrenceville. We had a chance to speak with co-founder and CEO David Price about how he turned the former Gwinnett Daily Post building into a massive brewing operation that focuses on the science of beer.

Read more on p. 72.

Back in August, we asked our readers to submit their kiddos’ back-to-school photos. Turn to p. 44 to see all the smiling faces for the first day back to school! We had such an amazing response that we weren’t able to include them all, so make sure to visit SuwaneeMagazine.com to see all of the photos.

Whether you love summer or fall, you can’t deny that there’s something magical in the air during this time of the year. You can find me planning Halloween costumes with my kids, visiting the fall festivals, and picking out the biggest pumpkin in the patch! Fall, I love you!

ALICIA CARTER, MANAGING EDITOR Alicia@suwanee magazine.com

COVER: LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYERS PHOTOGRAPHED BY PAUL PERDUE ON JULY 30, 2021.

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

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ANGELA VEUGELER President / Editor-in-Chief angela@suwaneemagazine.com RANDALL VEUGELER Vice President and Publisher ALICIA CARTER Managing Editor TAMMY LUNEY Ad Manager ads@suwaneemagazine.com

Creative Director RANDALL VEUGELER Art Director ERICA ABRAMS Writers LIZZY JAMES • NATALIE GARRETT Production Manager APRIL MILLER Web Editor CLARKE GLIDEWELL • KYLE WILSON Graphic Design SHAY HARBAUGH LAURA HOLCOMBE

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

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

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

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

Suwanee Magazine is published bi-monthly by Veugeler Design Group.

Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2021 Veugeler Design Group. The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Alicia Carter at Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com.

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SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

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

BEST IMMERSIVE EVENT I’m a sucker for a great immersive art experience, which is why I’m so excited for Illuminarium, which bills itself as the “next generation in immersive entertainment.” Their first show, WILD, is a cinematic experience that plucks you from the streets of Atlanta and plops you down in the middle of Africa, where you’ll come face-to-face with the world’s most exotic animals in their natural habitats. Don’t worry, you’ll be safe. The Illuminarium is brought to life through a blend of 4K laser projection, audio beams, infloor haptics that produce realistic sensations for visitors, and even scent. For more information about Illuminarium Atlanta, visit Illuminarium.com.

Best Brunch Spot

RUSHING TRADING CO. is

always a hot brunch spot, but I’m super pumped about their newest menu items! Just recently added to their already-robust menu filled with a scrumptious variety of breakfast and brunch dishes (as well as early morning beverages and late morning cocktails!), they’re now serving a decadent assortment of pastries, like muffins, danishes and scones. YUM!

Rushing Trading Co. is located at 5029 W. Broad St. N.E. in Sugar Hill. rushingtradingco.com.

— Natalie Garrett, Contributing Writer

— Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

BEST FAMILY MOVIE NIGHT The City of Suwanee is hosting a double-feature movie night at Town Center Park on Saturday, October 23, beginning with Hotel Transylvania at 6:30 p.m. followed by the original Ghostbusters at 8:45 p.m. There will be food trucks on hand so you can make it a dinner and a movie family night and start getting into the Halloween spirit! For more information, visit Suwanee.com.

— Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

Best Cocktails in a Can I’M LOVING all of the canned cocktails that local breweries and distilleries have been coming out with! I’m especially loving Dry County Spirits’ blueberry lemonade vodka, ​​ made from blueberry puree, lemon juice, and Dry County brand vodka. Haven’t had the chance to try it yet? Register for the Spooky Spirits 5K on Oct. 16. Dry County will have its blueberry lemonade canned vodka at one of six Spirits Stations along the course! (Read more on p. 23.) For more information about Dry County and its lineup of ready-todrink cocktails, visit DryCountyBrewco.com.

— Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

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business community news and info.

B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T

Revive IV Lounge

Revive IV Lounge specializes in IV therapies and wellness services to help individuals reach optimal health, function, and performance.

By Alicia Carter / Photos by Karl Lamb, Julie Perdue

OSH AND Dariane Newby take a proactive approach to health with Revive IV Lounge, ​​which specializes in IV therapies and other services to help individuals reach optimal health, function, and performance.

Josh, a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist (CRNA), has worked for Dr. Lionel Meadows, a noted local private surgeon, since 2015. During that time, he began to explore the idea of infusing nutrients to help patients with healing after surgery.

Over time, that exploration led to Josh and Dariane opening a full office dedicated to not only IV therapy and infusing nutrients, but also a number Josh and Dariane Newby, owners of other cuttingRevive IV Lounge edge treatments that offer preventative measures to help clients reach their health goals.

“From doing anesthesia and being in healthcare my whole life, I always see people who are very retroactive — everything is done after the fact,” Josh says. “We have surgery after something has gone wrong. We get on medication after

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IV therapy infused nutrients and vitamins directly into the blood stream.

things have gone wrong. Not many people do preventative medicine. We want to offer something that can be preventative. We want to take care of people before they get to where they have problems and need surgery or medications; we can help them have a better lifestyle.”

In addition to IV infusions, Revive’s other wellness therapies include an oxygen bar, nutrient injections, massage therapies, targeted cryo treatment, Ketamine infusions and more. These treatments are beneficial in a number of areas and can help with chronic pain, fatigue, depression, athletic performance, weight loss,

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anti-aging and so much more. As Josh puts it, it’s a better way to approach your health than by taking medication every day.

As an added bonus, these treatments are administered in a beautiful office building in Buford with private lounges equipped with comfortable seating, pillows, a blanket and a TV, allowing clients to relax and receive their treatments in luxury and privacy. It’s first-class service in a firstclass environment.

IV Therapy

is the use of intravenous vitamins and micronutrients to boost

IV THERAPY

Revive IV Lounge’s oxygen bar helps boost energy and reduce stress.

Cryo gun therapy promotes healing.

and protect your immune system, increase athletic performance, aid in athletic recovery, weight loss and much more. Infusing nutrients directly into the bloodstream makes them 100% absorbable by the body. “We place a needle into your vein and then we can infuse fluids, electrolytes, minerals, vitamins, and any kind of nutrients into your body. That way you’re getting them at 99% bioavailability,” Josh says.

“Versus taking things orally, where it’s watered down and dissolved and you’re not getting the full amount of the nutrients. It’s a way of getting nutrients directly into your system and into the cells.”

With IV therapy, most people notice positive effects after one treatment, however, consistency is key to optimal and prolonged health. Josh and Dariane recommend a minimum frequency of once a month, but weekly infusions are ideal. “It really depends on your body, how

depleted you are, and what kind of health gains you’re looking to get,” Josh says.

For those who are unsure where to start, Revive offers a menu of pre-made infusion “cocktails.” The Revive team will talk you through your symptoms or what you’d like to gain from the treatment, then they will pick out an IV drip that is best suited for your needs. “Even though we have pre-made IVs, they are completely customizable,” Dariane says. “So if you want to add a little extra something or take out something, we can do that, too.”

Once a particular IV infusion is chosen, clients are led to a private lounge where they can receive their treatment in privacy. “That was really big for us because we noticed when we visited a few IV places before we opened — they were set up more like a nail salon,” Dariane says. “All the chairs were lined up next to each other and the people sat right next to each other.

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It was more of a social experience.”

Revive IV, on the other hand, prioritizes their clients’ comfort by offering a private setting where they can take advantage of free Wi-Fi and get some work done or, if they prefer, utilize the social lounge. It’s all about the client’s individual needs.

Other services

IN ADDITION to IV therapy, Revive offers a number of other treatments to help maintain health and wellness.

The oxygen bar is hooked up to an oxygenator that takes the oxygen and filters it so you’re breathing in almost pure oxygen. It helps increase energy, reduce stress and brain fog, improve your mood and concentration, and even

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helps with hangovers.

Aromatherapy can also be added to the oxygen for added benefits, such as reducing anxiety and sinus relief. “Our most popular is our anti-anxiety,” Dariane says. “People say it’s extremely calming and relaxing.”

Josh is especially excited about the Ketamine treatments they offer, which treat drug-resistant depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD and chronic pain, especially those who are not seeing improvement with medications. “You know when your phone isn’t working?” Josh asks.

“Before you throw it away, you turn your phone off and wait a few minutes and turn it back on and all of a sudden it works. Well your brain is a complex system that’s firing from all cylinders.

So when you have these thoughts in your head, whether it’s depression or PTSD, they keep flashing in your head and medications try to work on that.

What Ketamine does is work on special

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receptors in your brain and causes a dissociative amnesia that works to reset your brain. It helps to fight those thoughts without taking medication every day.” Josh and Dariane both believe Ketamine is the next breakthrough treatment for depression.

Revive also offers therapeutic massage; cryo gun therapy that disperses liquid nitrogen to a specific area on the body to penetrate deep into the tissue and promote healing and repair; as well as injections and boosters such as B12, BCAAs, Tri Aminos and more.

With each of these therapies, Revive IV Lounge is on the forefront of the health and wellness industry, and is truly fulfilling its goal to offer preventative treatments that will help its clients reach their full health potential. ■

Revive IV Lounge is located at 2725 Mall of Georgia Blvd., Floor 2, in Buford. For more information, call 470-589-1237 or visit ReviveIVLoungeBuford.com.

BUSINESS

BY: Bill & Cindi Porter, AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS

Q: IS IT TOO LATE TO INVEST IN THE STOCK

MARKET SINCE IT IS HOVERING AROUND ITS ALL-TIME HIGH?

No, it is never too late. In 1957, the S&P 500 was first developed as an index. If you had decided not to invest, thinking it was too late because of a new market high, you would have been wrong 1,105 times.1 That is how many new market highs have occurred since 1957. Many times, the market will pull back temporarily to test the strength of a new market high.

However, given that all 1,104 previous market apexes have been replaced by new market highs, history suggests that it is not a matter of if there will be a new highpoint, but simply a matter of when.

Any money an investor commits to the stock market should be coupled with a time commitment of at least a few years. Even longer is better. Any less of a time commitment exposes the investment to a higher level risk. Even with the long list of new market highs, remember there have also been many market downturns in between, and some may have resulted in a loss of principal. Staying the course over the long haul and being flexible on the timing of the eventual withdrawal, is a time-honored strategy that has worked well over the decades. The last 1,104 pullbacks were actually buying opportunities because the lower stock prices were effectively “ON SALE.” When the markets eventually rose again to new highs, the sale was no longer in effect.

Some investors buy securities every month to average the acquisition price and mitigate the dynamics of timing.

If you have some funds that are truly earmarked for the long-term, you may want to ask your trusted advisor if there is any reason for you to delay investing now in the long-term markets – especially considering that banks are keeping nearly all their earnings and paying investors less than 1%.2 ■ Sources: 1) Invesco Funds, Bloomberg L.P. 12/31/20. 2) http://www.bestrates.com/savings accessed 7/16/21.

All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Securities and advisory services offered through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor. MAS and Aileron Investment Advisors are not affiliated entities.

Send your investment questions to: submissions@ SuwaneeMagazine.com

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Natural Healing… What to Do When You Hurt Yourself.

There isn’t a shortage for natural tips when it comes to alleviating pain. Simply search the #naturalpainrelief hashtag on Instagram and you can easily sift through hours of content.

Here are my top five go-to strategies to help the body heal faster after an acute (i.e., it just happened) injury. BY DR. LAUREN MILLMAN

We all do it. You and your friends went water skiing on the lake (even though you hadn’t done so in over 10 years) or maybe you danced the night away at your cousin’s wedding. Or perhaps you were a little overzealous with yard work last weekend. Whatever the reason, you found yourself quite uncomfortable, maybe even in pain, the next morning. During those times when we overdo it, it’s important to have helpful strategies to help you through the discomfort and encourage your body to heal as fast as possible. There are many natural strategies available to you, without you having to rely on over-thecounter medication.

5) WATER

Hey there, all you nonwater drinkers! Guess what?

Dehydration not only slows down your healing time, it can result in further injuries! Your body and your muscles were designed to be hydrated, especially when you’re active. If you already drink a lot of water, it never hurts to increase your water intake during times of injury. You also want to

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limit alcohol, soda, or tea as well because they further dehydrate you. Plenty of quality water is the name of the game, folks.

4) SUPPLEMENTS

There are many supplements that aid the body in healing and can help ease a sore body.

Magnesium is a fan favorite at our office, mostly because it’s effective, cost-effective, and easy to use. Our favorite brand comes in an easy to apply lotion, or as bath flakes, should you take a salt bath. Curcumin is another fan favorite, which is highly effective in providing pain relief and anti-inflammatory benefits, which we find just as effective as ibuprofen or aspirin.

3) GENTLE STRETCHING

Did you notice how I said gentle?

Post injury is no time to initiate an hour-long intensive Pilates session.

When your body is trying to heal, we want to give it what it needs to do so, and most importantly, we don’t want to further injure an

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already fragile area. Stretching is great for acute injuries, but I highly encourage you to take it easy. Gentle stretching increases blood flow, which aids in increased healing time.

2) ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils are simply remarkable for mild to moderate pain relief.

Natural essential oils such as wintergreen, peppermint, lavender, and basil are very effective in taking the edge off sore,

THERE’S A TREMENDOUS DIFFERENCE IN INJURY RECOVERY TIMES BETWEEN THOSE WHO RECEIVE CHIROPRACTIC CARE AND THOSE WHO DO NOT. uncomfortable, and overworked muscles. Essential oils are very effective in decreasing inflammation and repairing damaged tissues. You can apply oils topically to the area of pain, or you can add them to a warm, Epsom salt bath.

1) CHIROPRACTIC There’s a tremendous difference in injury recovery times between those who receive chiropractic care and those who do not. Chiropractic accomplishes two things: It not only alleviates stress and pressure from joints and soft tissue, it also stimulates the brain and nervous system to encourage and enhance healing. A balanced and aligned body is undoubtedly a body that heals significantly faster compared to one that is not.

Simply put, chiropractic doesn’t heal you, but rather it allows the body to heal itself, faster. Coupled with the supportive strategies above, chiropractic care is very effective at increasing healing time.

➽ The most important thing I can stress to you is patience (yuck, I know). Healing takes time and unfortunately you cannot rush the process. Instead, you have to support the body while it’s healing. It’s important to not only provide your body the tools it needs to heal, it’s just as important to slow down and give it the time it needs to heal. Taking care of your body is about listening when it tells you to “slow down.”

If your pain or discomfort lasts more than a few days, or if the pain or discomfort worsens, stop immediately and consult with your doctor. ■

Dr. Millman is the founder and upper cervical chiropractor of Suwanee Spine and Healing Center, author of The Ultimate Healing Handbook, and recently voted Best of Gwinnett 2019 and 2020. For more information, visit DrLaurenMillman.com.

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2021 Fall Festivals & Attractions Guide blistering Georgia summer we’ve finally made it to the beginning of the best time of the year, when the weather starts to dip to more comfortable temperatures and we can all put our boots, hats and sweaters back on. Not only is it the kick-off to the holiday season, beginning with Halloween and going strong until New Year’s Day, it’s also the beginning of festival season. In that spirit, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite upcoming festivals and events around town. Our annual guide to local fall fun is jam-packed with ways to fill your calendar all season long. BY ALICIA CARTER FTER A

Uncle Shucks!

CORN MAZES Buford Corn Maze The Buford Corn Maze provides a labyrinth of fun for families looking to ring in the season with good old-fashioned fall-time festivities. In addition to the eponymous 5-acre maze, Buford Corn Maze also boasts hayrides, a pumpkin patch, corn box (sandboxes are a thing of the past, y’all), haunted forest, pony rides, concessions, and an animal viewing area! Mark your calendar for Labor Day weekend, when the husk-filled maze opens for the 2021 season.

Sept. 4-Nov. 14, hours vary depending on day, 4470 Bennett Road, Buford. bufordcornmaze.com.

Uncle Shucks!

Located in Dawsonville, Uncle Shucks! is best known for its elaborate 15-acre corn maze. Spend the day exploring the farm grounds and then enjoy fun activities like pumpkin picking, jumping pad, haunted trail, tire mountain, kids maze, wagon ride and more.

Sept. 11-Nov. 14. Hours vary by month. 125 Bannister Road, Dawsonville. uncleshucks.com.

Jaemor’s Harvest Celebration

Visit Jaemor Farms for some family fun this fall!

Jaemor offers a whole fall farm experience that includes hayrides, farm slides, a petting zoo, farm skeeball, a pumpkin train, duck races, tricycle races, apple cannons and concessions — as well as a minimaze for those who want a quicker visit. Sept. 11-Nov. 7.

Hours vary by month. 5340 Cornelia Hwy. (Highway 365), Alto. 770-869-3999. jaemorfarms.com.

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Stone Mountain’s Yellow Daisy Festival features more than 300 artists and crafters.

Cumming County Fair and Festival

The Cumming Fairgrounds were established in 1995 and have increasingly grown over the years. Throughout the month of October, it becomes a sought-after destination for families looking for country fair and festival fun in North Georgia. The fair now spans a total of 11 days, and features daily attractions, concerts, carnival rides and food. Check the website for a complete list of events, free admission days, and discount nights. Oct. 7-17.

Hours Vary. 235 Castleberry Road, Cumming. cummingfair. squarespace.com.

FAMILY FUN Yellow Daisy Festival

Stone Mountain’s Yellow Daisy Festival has been voted one of the top arts and crafts shows, is a Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event, and a winner of multiple awards by the Southeast Festival and Events Association. More than 300 artists and crafters display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Enjoy fabulous festival food and crafter demonstrations throughout the event. Sept. 9-12. 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain. stonemountainpark.com.

Sugar Rush Festival Yellow Daisy Festival

CARNIVALS Gwinnett County Fair

The Gwinnett County Fair is back! This year the fair is packed with events for all ages, concerts, and of course, awesome carnival rides and food. The fair opens its gates to the public Sept. 16-26. Hours vary for the Exhibit Hall and Carnival. 2405 Sugarloaf Parkway, Lawrenceville. gwinnettcountyfair.com.

Georgia State Fair

The Georgia State Fair returns to Atlanta Motor Speedway this October with fun for all ages! There will be carnival rides, awesome foods, pony rides, a petting zoo, magic show and more! The State Fair is a must-visit this fall season. Oct. 1-10. Hours vary.

1500 Tara Place, Hampton. georgiastatefair.org.

One of its sweetest events, the City of Sugar Hill’s Sugar Rush Festival returns on October 16 and 17. This year marks the first time Sugar Rush has taken place over two days, and will feature live music, vendors, food trucks and artisan decorations. There Sugar Rush will also be DIY crafts available for families to bring home as well as a juried art show with local, regional, and international artists. October 16-17 at the Bowl at Sugar Hill.

For more information, visit CityOfSugarHill.com.

Suwanee Fest

This annual two-day celebration of community returns to Town Center Park September 18-19 with a pirate theme!

Nearly 200 vendors and exhibitors, 15 entertainment acts, and one amazing parade are just some of the highlights of this beloved fall tradition. Sept. 18-19, 10 a.m. Town Center Park. suwaneefest.com. Read more about Suwanee Fest on p. 27!

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Stone Mountain Park Pumpkin Festival

Stone Mountain’s Pumpkin Festival is a family-favorite event. Enjoy special fall entertainment featuring some of your favorite classic storybook characters! Then, after the sun goes down, you'll glow by night in a whole new light with the new Nighttime Parade and plenty of other new not-sospooky glowing experiences! Select dates from Sept. 18-Oct. 31. 1000 Robert E Lee Blvd., Stone Mountain. stonemountainpark.com.

Netherworld

ADULT FUN Netherworld Haunted House

Consistently voted one of the top haunts in the nation and an annual Halloween rite of passage for those brave enough to enter.

Netherworld recently announced its haunt themes for 2021: Rise of the Netherspawn and Return to Planet X in 3D. In Rise of the Netherspawn, a primordial monster known as the Ganoga will summon the twins, Fear and Terror, to lead an invasion of hideous creatures from the Netherworld.

In Return to Planet X, revelers will put on special 3D glasses to help Dr. Otto Gloman defeat malevolent life forms from another dimension. Sept. 24-25, Oct. 1-31, Nov. 5-7 and 12-13. Sunday-Thursday, 7:30-10:30pm; Friday-Saturday, 7pmmidnight. 1313 Netherworld Way, Stone Mountain. fearworld.com.

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2021 FALL FESTIVALS & ATTRACTIONS GUIDE

FEATURED FAMILY EVENT

Suwanee Wine Fest

Stone Mountain’s Pumpkin Festival is a family-friendly event that literally glows at night!

Duluth Fall Festival SEPTEMBER 25-26

SATURDAY: 9am-7pm / SUNDAY: 8am-5pm Voted Best of Gwinnett and Reader’s Choice many times and Best Large Festival in the Southeast, the Duluth Fall Festival is the largest festival in the Southeast with no paid staff and more than 400 volunteers. The festivities kick off on Saturday, September 25, in downtown Duluth with a huge parade at 10am, followed by more than 300 booths of arts and crafts, food, and sponsors.

Be sure to visit Tailgate Central with entertainment on two stages and more!

Sunday begins with a Peachtree Road Racequalifying race at 8am, followed by Worship on the Green by Duluth First United Methodist Church. There will also be entertainment, booth shopping and food. Pro tip: Plan to ride one of the 12 free large shuttle buses from three area schools so you won’t have to worry about parking. For more information visit DuluthFallFestival.org.

Netherworld

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2021 FALL FESTIVALS & ATTRACTIONS GUIDE

FEATURED FAMILY EVENT

Suwanee Taste of BBQ & Music Festival SATURDAY, OCTOBER 9 I 10am-6pm

Suwanee Taste of BBQ and Music Festival returns to Town Center Park for its fourth year on October 9th. The festival is a community event featuring local vendors, an artist market, live music from local, regional, and international up-and-coming artists, a Kids (and Family) Fun Zone with activities for children of all ages, and of course, the Taste of BBQ! In the Taste of BBQ area, attendees will be able to taste some delicious barbecue from festival vendors as well as purchase full plates. Taste of BBQ tickets will be sold by Project Green and will raise money for the Kids Summer Camp program. The Suwanee Taste of BBQ and Music Festival is free to attend and is a fundraiser for Project Green, a local kid’s charity that sponsors kids to annual summer camps.

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For more information or to become a sponsor or vendor, email kim@aliveexpo.com or call 770-806-7492. The vendor lineup and a schedule of performers can be found online at AliveExpo.com/Festival.

HURRY! TICKETS ARE LIMITED!

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT:

SUWANEE WINE FEST IS BACK!

After taking a hiatus in 2020, Suwanee Wine Fest is planning its return on Saturday, November 6th. Wine lovers will enjoy the cooler fall weather while treating their taste buds to unlimited samples of more than 150 wines, the majority of which are carefully hand-selected by the wine experts at Suwanee TopShelf Beverage.

CREATED BY the team behind the award-winning

Suwanee Beer Fest and recognized as one of the premier wine events in Georgia, Suwanee Wine Fest gets bigger and better each year.

As festival attendees sip their way through Suwanee’s Town Center Park, they can shop from local vendors, taste delicious food from some of the area’s most popular food trucks, participate in backyard games like giant Jenga, and listen to live music from local bands. This year, Brian Wiltsey will perform popular songs from ’60s pop to ’90s rock, and all the ’70s and ’80s in between.

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The Georgia Wine Trail

The Georgia Wine scene has exploded over the last two years. What better way to celebrate them than at a wine festival?!

Catch a glimpse of what Georgia has to offer as you travel from one Georgia winery to the next sampling everything from a sweet blueberry wine to rich and woodsy Cabernet. Even better, Georgia wineries will be selling their wine for those who want to take a little vino home.

Tailgate Tent

Don’t want to miss the game? We have you covered. Head to the Tailgate Tent to catch the latest scores and see what StillFire Brewing and Pontoon Brewing have on tap. For those wanting to try something different, Taco Mac will be serving up some of their tasty artisan craft cocktails.

Cheers to the community! Event organizers believe in giving back to the community.

A portion of the Wine Fest proceeds will be donated to Annandale Village, a Suwanee organization that provides care and life assistance to adults with developmental disabilities or traumatic brain injuries and enables them to maintain their independence in the least-restrictive environment possible. Suwanee Wine Fest also donates a portion of proceeds to the City of Suwanee SculpTour. This outdoor art exhibit, which can be seen all around Town Center Park, features eclectic sculptures created from unique materials such as

SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2021

2021 FALL FESTIVALS & ATTRACTIONS

RUN FOR Sample more than 150 wines from around the world hand-selected

by TopShelf Beverage.

BOO ZE!

SUWANEE WINE FEST ANNOUNCES THE FIRST ANNUAL SPOOKY SPIRITS 5K, A NEW COSTUMES AND COCKTAILS THEMED RACE COMING TO TOWN CENTER PARK IN OCTOBER. BY ALICIA CARTER / PHOTO BY GARY DOWD behind Georgia’s premier wine festival, Suwanee Wine Fest, have a few new tricks up their sleeves this Halloween season. In keeping with the spirit of the season, they will host the first annual Spooky Spirits 5K on October 16th at Suwanee’s Town Center Park. This Peachtree Road Race-qualifying event offers a cocktails and costumes twist on the traditional 5K. The race is perfect for runners of all levels, whether you are a competitive runner trying to beat your personal record, or you’re simply looking to sip and stroll with your closest cocktail-loving friends. Just choose the ticket that channels your Halloween spirit — either non-stop or with “spirit” stops — and then everyone will cheers together at the finish line!

The 5K will start at Suwanee Town Center Park and head down the scenic Suwanee Creek Greenway, ending back at Suwanee Town Center Park.

Those who purchase a ticket with spirit stops will be able to pause at each of the six Spirit THE GHOULS

Stations along the course and “hydrate” with 3-ounce cocktail samples from Dry County Brewing Company, High Noon Sun Sips, Two Chicks Cocktails, Loyal 9 Cocktails, Canteen Spirits, Flippin' Bird and Cathead Distillery. Each Spirit Station will feature a different cocktail and theme, guaranteed to be more treat than trick. Have no fear, those runners (21 and up) who opt out of the spirit stops will still be able to enjoy a full cocktail at the end of the race! Vendors and food trucks will also be waiting at the finish line.

Runners are encouraged to get into the spirit and come dressed in costume!

Prizes will be awarded after the race for the most spirited outfits, including Best Female Costume, Best Male Costume, and Best Group Costume.

All participating runners will also receive an official Spooky Spirits 5K shirt, medal, and souvenir glass. It’s sure to be a frightening good time!

For more information and to register for the race, visit

SpookySpirits5K.com.

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aluminum, glass, bronze, brick, stone, and plastic. The sculptures change bi-annually. The program is sponsored by the Suwanee Public Arts Commission.

2021 Georgia Wineries at Suwanee Wine Fest:

CLOUDLAND VINEYARDS AND WINERY 3796 N Bogan Road, Buford, GA Facebook.com/cloudlandwines

 Established in 2015, Cloudland is a farm winery located in the foothills of the North Georgia mountains. Located on the first ridge transitioning from the Piedmont Plateau and the Blue Ridge Mountains, the 10-acre site sits at a unique 1,300'​elevation in the Lake Lanier Highlands. Cloudland focuses on growing premium quality fruit and rare grapes that are ideal for the region.

The tasting room is designed for a truly personal experience. Enjoy nooks and experiences tailored for visitors’ special outings, all while nestled among the vines of Cloudland’s estate vineyard.

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BIG DOOR VINEYARDS 125 Clearwater Trail, White, GA BigDoorVineyards.com

 Big Door Vineyards is a boutique winery founded on both friendship and a love of wine. The establishment started in March 2015 with estate grown grapes: Blac du Bois, Chardonel, Lenoir and Lomanto. Since then, they have built a beautiful tasting room to include the staple piece, “the big door.” Their mission is to bring back the true history of wine to Georgia, starting with a Lenoir varietal. This particular varietal is one of the oldest known hybrid grapes ever to be cultivated in America.

2021 FALL FESTIVALS & ATTRACTIONS

SWEET ACRE FARMS

7584 Bill Wilson Road, Alto, GA SweetAcreFarms.com  Sweet Acre Farms Winery is a small husband-and-wife-run farm located in the beautiful foothills of the Northeast Georgia mountains. After growing blackberries and keeping bees for some time, they have turned their u-pick farm into Hall County's first winery. They specialize in fruit, or "country wines," that are reminiscent of those their Southern families used to make. Sweet Acre honors Georgia’s agricultural diversity by using the finest ingredients from their farm and farms alike.

ETOWAH MEADERY

FIVE POINTS BERRIES WINERY

 Located in Dahlonega, the very Heart of Georgia’s wine country and the Wine Tasting Capital of Georgia, Etowah Meadery gives “wine” a unique buzz! In fact, their meads are wines made with only the finest honeys, fruits, and spices. Mead is a honey-based wine enjoyed by many enlightened civilizations throughout time. Mead’s enthusiastic acclaim is known to China, Europe, Africa – anywhere in the world where honey is produced. Thankfully, the modern artisans of Etowah Meadery have resurrected this golden elixir and nectar of the gods for our enjoyment.

 Five Points Berries Winery is a family-owned and operated Georgia farm winery that offers nine distinct varieties of delicious 100% blueberry wine produced as naturally as possible.

3003 Morrison Moore Parkway East, Dahlonega, GA EtowahMeadery.com

749 Johnson Cemetery Road, Mauk, GA FivePointsBerries.com

 Suwanee Wine Fest will take place Sat., Nov. 6, 2021. General Admission prices start at $49 per person and feature unlimited samples of wine and beer in the park from 1-4:30 p.m. with the prices increasing to $55 on September 26. Purchase tickets now at SuwaneeWinefest.com.

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770-353-9946 codeninjas.com/ga-suwanee

_________________________________________________________

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At Code Ninjas, kids learn to code while building their own video games. They gain problem solving, critical thinking, and STEM skills in a fun, safe, and inspiring environment.

770-497-5100 www.atlantagladiators.com

_________________________________________________________

SEPTEM2B0ER21 18-19,

Hockey is back in the A! Get your Atlanta Gladiators tickets for our 2021-2022 season today! www.atlantagladiators.com

561-225-5774 340 Town Center Ave A-9 Suwanee GA, 30024

TS I A W A E R U S A E R T

_________________________________________________________ JPAR Metro Atlanta a full service real estate brokerage.

Chris & Lisa Schlitz

Set Sail for Suwanee Fest!

678-376-2922

Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC US, headquartered in Suwanee, Georgia, has been a leading marketer of intelligent air conditioning and heating technology that provides flexibility when designing comfort into a building.

404-713-4305 www.akatreeservice.com 4104 W White Road Oakwood, GA 30566

The weekend kicks off with a parade down Main Street featuring police cars, floats created by community members, and more.

Prizes are awarded each year to floats and participants in a variety of categories.

_________________________________________________________

AVAST, ME HEARTIES!

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Free Chapel Gwinnett Campus 678-677-8300 • freechapel.org

_________________________________________________________ Pastor Jentezen and Cherise Franklin invite you to join them each week for an incredible worship experience and lasting community. No matter where you are in your life, there is a place for you at Free Chapel.

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CampGladiator.com

_________________________________________________________

A high note of Suwanee Fest is the outstanding performing talent! On the stage and throughout the park, you will find dance groups, acrobats, solo artists, bands, and other groups with diverse backgrounds.

CG is a fun and challenging workout program led by certified personal trainers. Enjoy unlimited access to outdoor and online workouts that fit your schedule.

Suwanee Fest is a great event for the entire family! Many free activities for children will be offered in the Family Fun Zone – a.k.a., Pirate’s Cove! – as well as traditional rides and inflatables available in several areas of the park.

_________________________________________________________

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leaffilter.com

Discover a new way to stop cleaning gutters.

Protect your gutters - and entire home - with LeafFilter Gutter Protection.

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4355 Suwanee Dam Road • Suwanee 770-614-7300 • AtlantaGentleDental.com _________________________________________________________

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High-Touch, Soft-Touch Dental Care. We use advanced technology to provide a gentler, more caring approach to dentistry. From sedation to invisible braces.

“Paper with a Purpose”

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All Suwanee Fest Weekend!

rint

Bring paper towels or toilet paper packs to the parade or festival –

Suwanee Magazine

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AKA Tree Service - Cut with Confidence

The parade ends in Town Center Park where nearly 200 vendors and exhibitors offer a variety of hand-crafted items and delicious delights. Festival exhibitors include artists, craftspeople, and yummy food vendors.

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_________________________________________________________

Suwanee Fest returns to Town Center Park September 18 and 19, 2021! Suwanee Fest is our city’s annual two-day celebration of community, and this year, we’ve chosen a pirate theme.

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prepres

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s

730 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.

Suwanee, GA 30024 prepress2printing.com (C) 770-361-1074 (O) 770-945-4275 (F) 770-932-1805

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Suwanee Fest Schedule

678-521-2142 3425 Martin Farm Rd, Suwanee, GA 30024

_________________________________________________________ Official Man Cave Sponsor of Suwanee Fest

770-622-1177 4395 Johns Creek Pkwy #100, Suwanee, GA 30024

_________________________________________________________

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Confident Smiles Made Daily

8am - 8pm ✖ Free shuttle to/from offsite parking

678-482-4400 sugarhillspineandwellness.org

_________________________________________________________ Specializing in natural family care, spinal restoration, joints and extremities, sports injuries, athletic care, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, and Softwave Tissue regenerative therapy.

888-736-6335 • powerhrg.com 1740 Corporate Dr #800 Norcross, GA 30093

_________________________________________________________ Your #1 home improvement contractor for energy efficient windows, siding, & roofing.

Dr. Tim Smith Buford, GA Align Your Health

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 9am ✖ Parade

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10am - 7pm

Arts & crafts exhibitors, inflatable rides, family fun zone, food vendors

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10:30am

Free on-stage entertainment begins

5:30pm ✖ Headliner: 17

Rubiks Groove

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

11:30am - 7pm ✖ Free shuttle to/from offsite parking

Noon - 5pm

Arts & crafts exhibitors, inflatable rides, family fun zone, food vendors, free on-stage entertainment

4pm ✖ Featured Band:

November Blue 22

Stop by our booth to register for the

Suwanee Half Marathon and 5K! 2-20-22

Let’s run this town!

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ME TREASURE MAP

A New Chapter Art LLC .................................................. R 03 Aaji's Creations ................................................................ Y 28 Achieve Make Believe .................................................... B 49 American Glory Style ...................................................... B 34 Anna Kate Hudson ..........................................................G 44 Aprons by Bakers ............................................................ P 17 Arlene’s Dazzling Diamonds.......................................... R 30 ArtBySaara ........................................................................ R 06 B & B Enterprises .............................................................G 42 B&K Jewelry ..................................................................... Y 07 Bella LaPorte Creations .................................................. Y 06 Blazing Crown Creation ................................................. Y 27 Boat Gas Lock .................................................................. B 43 Buy Nature's Design ....................................................... R 12 Clean Stitches Embroidery ..................................B 19, B 20 Coonhound Hollow Mercantile.....................................G 01 Crafty Cookie Crafts ........................................................ R 09 Crocheted Cre8tions by Kathy ...................................... R 38 Cupcakes by Lisa, LLC .................................................... R 05 D & E Fabric Creations, LLC ...........................................G 05 Della Candle Company .................................................. P 21 Fatwood Firesteels by Visioneering Woodworks ....... R 21 Forte Couture ................................................................... P 19 Four Little Bubbles ................................................B 38, B 39 Frik & Frak Foods ............................................................. R 11

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Frosty Kicks ....................................................................... B 04 Ganger Woodworks........................................................ R 33 Grands Designs Woodworks......................................... Y 29 Gym Babe Apparel, LLC ................................................. B 32 Higher Than The Sky Embroidery Designs.................. R 19 HuMa Designs, Inc .......................................................... Y 20 Ivy Mist Candles .....................................................B 35, B 36 Jody DeWeese ................................................................ R 15 Jotblot ............................................................................... R 04 Kathy Lohr Designs ......................................................... B 03 Kendall's Kreations Ga....................................................G 02 Korean Traditional Folkpainting .................................... R 10 Lazy Goat Produce .......................................................... R 23 Little Wrecks by Lori ........................................................ R 22 Lovin The Journi .............................................................. B 27 Macks Beads ....................................................................G 08 Maddox Wood Design .........................................B 46, B 47 Maeday Gourmet Sauces and Rubs ............................. R 25 MarsBarsArt ......................................................................G 27 Maybird Confections ...................................................... R 13 Mom & Me Hand Stamped ............................................ B 37 Nectar of the Vine............................................................ B 28 Old Golf.club / Crickets Creation ................................. Y 12 Painted Expressions Face Paint and Henna.................G 34 Palmer Woodworks ......................................................... B 41 Piedmont Provisions ....................................................... P 18 Pop's Shop........................................................................G 26

SUWANEE'S TOWN CENTER PARK • BUFORD HWY - LAWRENCEVILLE SUWANEE RD Portabakes Cakes and Confections .............................. P 14 Pure Bliss Organics..........................................................G 18 Repurposed by Mike ...................................................... R 37 ROKAR Woodcrafts ......................................................... R 16 Rugged Axe Throwing Co........................G 30, G 31, G 32 Simple And Pure Natural Products ............................... R 07 Simply Kait ........................................................................ B 31 Slothulu Studios............................................................... B 24 Southern Addiction Decor ..................................G 14, G 15 Southern Essentials ......................................................... B 06 Stones To Wear ................................................................ B 05 Suga's Pimento Cheeses................................................ R 14 Swinehearts Chattahoochee Gold Sauce .................... Y 30 Taylor Stitches .................................................................. R 32 That Soap Place ............................................................... R 20 The Bruce's Eye View ...........................................G 09, G 10 The Retro Flamingo..............................................G 03, G 04 The SandArt Cart .............................................................G 20 Tina's Tie Dye ................................................................... B 30 Topped, Wrapped, Covered, and Tossed, LLC ...........G 07 Treebok Pets ..................................................................... Y 17 Trinity Crafters ..................................................................G 16 TU Jewelry ........................................................................ B 48 Tutu Cutesy Boutique ..................................................... R 41 Twisted Tails Co ............................................................... Y 10 Tyson's Craft Spot ............................................................ P 20 Vintage Praise .................................................................. R 28 W.A.Hill Designs .............................................................. Y 26 Yellow Rock Farm ............................................................ R 39 You Better Invite Me ........................................................ Y 08 Yuki Takahashi ..................................................................G 06 Zeebows .................................................................R 26, R 27

FINE ART A Measure of Clay, Richard Shivers Pottery ................. R 01 Anne Bradham Fine Art .................................................. R 02 Crafty Creations ............................................................... B 42 Justine Dahl......................................................................G 17 Lucrative Signs ................................................................. B 18 Nancy's Pottery ................................................................G 13 Pottery by Cyn ..................................................................G 13

FOOD VENDORS Al A Carte Foods..............................................................G 28 All Around The World .........................................Food Court Bueno Taco...........................................................Food Court Daddy O'Brien's Irish Ice cream Pub................................13 Dippin' Dots ..............................................................26, G 19 Flavor Rich Food Truck .......................................Food Court Henry’s Concessions ...........................................Food Court Hobie Pop Kettle Corn ........................................................15 King of Pops, Suwanee ......................................................... C Lemonade Mixology ...........................................................17 London’s Lemonade ....................................................... R 40 Operation Mini Donuts.......................................Food Court

Pico's HotDogs ......................................................................G Rita's Italian Ice .........................................................19, G 45 Salvay ....................................................................................23 Southern Grace ...................................................Food Court Sweet Chimney Bakery.......................................................21 Sweet Melissa Travels .........................................Food Court The Mad Greek Food..........................................Food Court

NON-PROFITS Cat Rangers ...................................................................... Y 15 First Believe You Can LLC...............................................G 35 Geekspace Gwinnett ...................................................... Y 11 Global Thrombosis Forum .............................................G 40 Great Adventure Missions....................................Y 18, Y 19 Gwinnett Ballet Theatre ........................................Y 21, Y 22 Gwinnett County Public Library - Suwanee Branch .... Y 01 Gwinnett County Public Schools ................................... Y 03 Harvest Farm at White Street Park ................................ P 13 Humane Society of the United States, GA ................... Y 14 North Gwinnett Co-op .................................................... P 12 North Metro Baptist Church .......................................... Y 09 Pippi's Place Pet Rescue ................................................. Y 16 Student Docs for Shocks ................................................ Y 04 Suwanee Creek Chapter DAR ....................................... P 15 Suwanee First United Methodist Church ..................... B 40 Team Rubicon USA Atlanta Metro ................................ P 16 The Gideons International ............................................. Y 02

SPONSORS AKA Tree Serivce ............................................................. P 05 AlignLife of Sugar Hill ..................................................... R 29 Atlanta Falcons ......................................................... P 10, 11 Atlanta Gladiators .................................................... B 07, 08 Camp Gladiator ............................................................... P 04 CBD American Shaman........................................... R 34, 35 Code Ninjas...................................................................... P 08 Free Chapel ...................................................................... B 33 Friday Health Plans.......................................................... Y 13 JPAR Metro Atlanta ......................................................... P 07 Kennon Heating & Air .............................................. B 25, 26 LeafFilter North, LLC ....................................................... P 13 Level Minds CBD ......................................................G 11, 12 Mitsubishi Electric Trane HVAC ..................................... P 02 North Atlanta Primary Care ..................................... B 21, 22 Northside Hospital .......................................................... P 06 Performance Race Services............................................ P 22 Power Home Remodeling .............................................. P 03 Quantum National Bank .......................................... B 15, 16 Road Atlanta.............................................................. B 44, 45 Smile Doctors................................................................... B 23 Suwanee Dental Care ..................................................... P 01 Suwanee Magazine .................................................. B 11, 12 Symphony Suwanee ................................................ B 09, 10 True Source Family Chiropractic ................................... B 17 Walton Gas ................................................................ B 13, 14

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2021 Suwanee Fest has

Whatever floats your boat,

something for everyone!

Simply Kait ✖ Booth B31

Love the look of big, fun, statement earrings, but maybe don’t want your earlobes to throb for days after wearing them? Have we got a vendor for you! Simply Kait hand-creates lightweight and durable polymer clay jewelry on hypoallergenic findings (meaning your earlobes won’t throb from infection either). Artist Kaitlyn Stewart began experimenting with polymer clay to help relieve the stress that comes from her day job as a Suwanee Police crime analyst! Lucky for us she fell in love with the process.

A New Chapter Art ✖ Booth R03

The perfect custom gift for the bookworm in your life! Artist Dana Durwin transforms previously loved books into art one story at a time. The process begins by carefully selecting books with interesting colors and titles from local library book sales and thrift stores. Each book art sculpture is then designed by drawing inspiration from the title and hand-cutting each piece using a scroll saw. Each finished book is a unique piece of literary art – literally!

Suga’s Pimento Cheeses ✖ Booth R14

GET YER BOOTY!

Stacey West, a.k.a. “Chef Suga,” says that pimento cheese is the caviar of the South, and we are here for it! Suga’s Pimento Cheeses come in 12 gourmet flavors ranging from subtle to mild to south-of-the-border hot, but always mouth-wateringly delicious! Chef Suga pairs limitless imagination and creativity with her culinary background and local, farm-fresh peppers and real spiced cheeses to create incredibly unique flavors. She also makes pimento cheese cookies, cornbread, flat bread pizzas, and all things pimento cheese.

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Treebok Pets ✖ Booth Y17

Have a great photo of your beloved pet? Then you can also have a GORGEOUS handdrawn portrait of your beloved furry (or feathery) friend! Lifelong artist Reebok Brown was inspired to draw her own dog, Finn, after seeing him stare out the window at swaying trees during Hurricane Irma. Reebok draws custom charcoal portraits of pets of all shapes and sizes – she’s so good that the portraits often look better than the photograph!

The Retro Flamingo ✖ Booth G03 & G04

Cool products AND cool name alert! The Retro Flamingo creates floral crowns, cat ears, mermaid crowns, fairy wands, unicorn headbands, coordinating accessories, and more!

The light-up crowns are PERFECT to wear to the Saturday evening concert. Best of all, the crowns are totally adjustable, so they fit kids and parents. They even have special crowns for pets!

Fatwood Fire Steels ✖ Booth R21

The idea for Fatwood Fire Steels first formed when creator Jeff Harrelson accidentally took a dip in the 43° Tennessee River on a fishing trip. Realizing that, in the event of an emergency, he had no way to easily build a fire to warm and dry himself, he began researching bushcraft wilderness skills, and the idea was born. Stop by to hear more tails from this avid outdoorsman, and check out his truly unique (and possibly lifesaving) creation.

Gym Babe Apparel ✖ Booth B32

Creating clothing equally appropriate for working out in and announcing on social media that you work out! Gym Babe Apparel stocks racerback tanks, t-shirts, crop tops, hoodies, and accessories with all of those cute Insta-worthy sayings (“Hiding from my kids is my cardio,” “Planks then Dranks,” “Everything Hurts and I’m Dying”). If you are, or know of, a “Muscles then Mimosas” kinda girl, this vendor is for you.

Anne Bradham Fine Art ✖ Booth R02

Watercolorist and printmaker Anne Bradham is a longtime Suwanee Fest favorite, and winner of Best in Show 2019, as well as a Suwanee Arts Center show winner. Anne creates original watercolor fine art paintings of landscapes, cityscapes, temples, still life, and more, as well as custom commissioned artwork. A lifelong artist, Anne traveled the world with her father, an art dealer, and studied at the Corcoran School of Art, the National Museum of American Art, and Brigham Young University.

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Saturday

September 18

2021

All Stars Performing Arts Academy ✖ 10:30am

All Stars Performing Arts Academy is an award-winning, high performance studio that elevates the spirit while delivering high technical training. Voted Best of Gwinnett for the past six years, all instructors are, or have been, professionals in the industry.

Manga African Dance ✖ 1:30pm

Founded in 1990, Manga African Dance’s mission is to preserve, present, and teach indigenous African cultural arts through dance, drums, fashion, drama, songs, crafts, and more. Manga performed at the 1996 Olympics, has partnered with the Woodruff Arts Center, and taught at schools throughout Atlanta with special attention to underserved communities.

Midnite Cruzer ✖ 2:30pm

Midnite Cruzer has been rocking Atlanta and keeping dance floors full since 2009! A classic rock band with a Southern kick, Midnite Cruzer plays the best of the '60s, '70s, and '80s – everything from AC/DC to ZZ Top, Johnny Rivers to Merle Haggard, Garth Brooks to Tommy Tutone!

Catherine Wynder ✖ 11:30am

A graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, pop violinist Catherine Wynder is an accomplished musician who calls Suwanee home. She has performed at venues such as Carnegie Hall, Nike SoHo, Park Avenue Armory, the Renwick Gallery, and the Huthmaker Violins front porch during the 2021 Summer Porch Jam.

GATHER YER CREW!

Pirate Shenanigans! ✖ 12:30pm

Distinct Grace ✖ 4:00pm

Distinct Grace is a Southern rock band that was formed when two Air Force veterans decided to raise money for struggling veteran non-profit organizations. The band has raised over $50,000 for charities such as Operation 300, American Widow Project, and Veterans Heart GA, and have recently partnered with When Everyone Survives.

Headliner

Rubiks Groove ✖ 5:30pm

Rubiks Groove is the premier “outside the box” '80s and '90s party band. This high-energy, character-driven act will take you back to the best era of music with a complete interactive experience of live music from rock to hip-hop, iconic characters, costumes, and videos!

Sunday

Brodie Mullin ✖ 1:45pm

September 19

A student at North Gwinnett High School, Brodie Mullin is a triple threat who sings, dances, and acts.

He is a cast member of educational web series Winning Feathers, competes on a hip-hop dance team that won first place at the Kids Got Talent Showcase, and has three songs streaming on all platforms.

His original song, Warrior, recently won Song of the Year at the Atlanta Kidz Choice Awardz.

CTB Dance ✖ Noon

Located in Duluth, “Catch the Beat” Dance Academy (CTB) is a new dance studio offering classes for all ages, styles, and levels. Instructors are well-educated in the art of dance, as well as experienced performers and choreographers.

North Gwinnett Middle School Guitar Ensemble ✖ 12:30pm

Eric & Misty ✖ 2:30pm

Acoustic duo Eric & Misty met in 2016 as worship leaders and soon realized that together their harmonies were magical.

(The music wasn’t the only magic happening – they also got married!) The couple has made a career performing across the Atlanta area and beyond. Eric & Misty perform a variety of songs, from Chris Stapleton to John Legend and from Britney Spears to Radiohead and aim to reach everyone with their love of music.

Enjoy tunes from talented middle school guitarists!

Music is an integral part of North Gwinnett’s wellrounded educational program. It has a long record for building selfdiscipline and integrity, and providing unique opportunities for self-expression and creativity.

Haniel De Ocampo ✖ 1:15pm

Musician Haniel De Campo has been performing since she was five years old, and recently won first place at North Gwinnett Middle School’s “North’s Got Talent” contest. She plays the piano, ukulele, and the violin.

Haniel is a member of the NGMS Drama Club and was a member of the Riverside Elementary Drama Club for two years prior.

Featured Band

November Blue ✖ 4:00pm

November Blue is a six-piece country rock band out of Nashville. After releasing their self-titled debut album in 2017, the band expanded in order to explore larger sounds, allowing November Blue to play larger venues and inspiring three more albums. Produced by Grammy Award-winning producer Michael Omartian, their newest release was influenced by the Allman Brothers, Crosby Stills & Nash, and the Avett Brothers.

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Saturday, September 18 ✖ 9:00 am MAIN STREET SUWANEE

Ahoy, mateys! The annual Suwanee Fest Parade will roll through the streets of downtown this year on Saturday, September 18! The traditional kick-off to the twoday celebration of community, the parade begins at 9am on Main Street, then travels along Suwanee Dam to Buford Highway, passing in front of the judges’ station at Town Center Park.

2021

You’re invited to seek ye treasure in the 2021 Suwanee Fest Parade! Get your group together, decorate a float/boat, dress up, and/or prepare a 60 second performance for your chance to win a prize. Cash prizes are available for best use of theme, most entertaining, best costumes, and other categories.

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Parade

SHIVER ME TIMBERS!

2021 Suwanee Fest Parade Grand Marshal Scott Slade

Scott Slade is well-known as the host of Atlanta’s Morning News on WSB AM and FM. He is a two-time winner of the National Association of Broadcasters Marconi Award as Best Radio Personality in America in both major and large market categories, and also has two Emmy wins.

A Griffin, Georgia native, Slade began his radio career in high school. He joined WSB in 1984 and has been a helicopter traffic reporter, producer, and a host of Atlanta's Morning News since 1991, which won the national Edward R. Murrow Award as Best Radio Newscast in the nation. Scott initiated the WSB Radio Care-a-Thon for the AFLAC Cancer Center in 2000, raising over six million dollars to fight children’s cancer and blood disorders.

Slade is a graduate of Georgia State University, a commercial airplane and helicopter pilot, and enjoys hiking, playing jazz saxophone, and horseback riding.

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The Crew of the Jolly

Suwanee

A volunteer committee works hard all year long to make sure that Suwanee Fest is the best that it can be, year after year. Thank you, Suwanee Fest Committee members, for your time, enthusiasm, creativity, energy, dedication, and hard work!

Sponsorship – Sea Legs Paul Beavin

2019 Suwanee Fest Committee.

Entertainment – Pillaging Michelle Budd Pirate's Cove – Peg Toe Donna Copeletti Parade – Surly Kate Fanale

Vendors – Landlubber Janis Beavin, Shark Bait Cathy Karlick, Scallywag Robin Sullivan Food Vendors – Sea Sick David Sullivan

Transportation – Plunderin’ Mauro Marcillo Volunteers – Shady Tracy Mason

At-Large – Swiggin’ Matt Savitt, Swaggin’ Lori Carella, Jolly Jerry Weisfogel

t n e T e e n a w u Stop by theoSf City Hall! on front est t-shirts!

• Suwanee F magnets!

• Bubbly car tickers!

• Awesome s !

• Festival info ag, including sw e e n a w u S • te bags! those killer to 37

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Family Fun Zone COME

Saturday, September 18 ✖ 10am - 7pm Sunday, September 19 ✖ Noon - 5pm Yo-ho-ho, young seafarers! Join us in Pirate’s Cove for some swashbuckling fun! Located on Town Center Avenue, Pirate’s Cove is an area dedicated to our younger Suwanee Fest visitors.

Try a series of obstacles that will test your sea legs and challenge your pirate skills. Those who successfully complete the challenges might find themselves recruited for adventure on the high seas!

YO HO HO, A SUWANEE LIFE FOR ME!

Other Family Fun Zone activities include: • Swashbucklin’ photo booth • Caricature artists • Balloons artist

Rides& Games Suwanee Fest also features a massive ride and games area, providing non-stop fun for kids of all ages (not to mention child-free shopping time for mom and dad!).

Tickets are available for purchase at the festival for inflatables, small rides, and carnival-style games.

Saturday, September 18

Rides open at 10 am and close at 7 pm Ticket sales end at 6:30 pm

Sunday, September 19

Rides open at noon and close at 5 pm Ticket sales end at 4:30 pm

• Roaming pirate performers • A living statue!

*Activities in the Family Fun Zone are complimentary.

Better Health Starts Here (770)442-1911 www.NAPC.md Saturday Clinic

Extended Hours Appointments

Telemedicine & Virtual Visits

Patient Portal

Walk-Ins Accepted

Referral Coordination

15 Convenient Atlanta Locations

Same-Day Appointments

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Parking & Shuttles OCTOPUS LOT

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330 Town Center Avenue

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CRAB LOT

Southeastern Freight, 3655 Windsor Park

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PARKING & SHUTTLES

Su Da wa m nee Rd

PARROT LOT

Shawnee North Business Center, 305 Shawnee North Drive

le vil ce d en e R wr n e La uwa S

• Crab Lot Southeastern Freight 3655 Windsor Park off of Buford Highway

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• Octopus Lot Shadowbrook Church 4187 Suwanee Dam Road *This lot features wheelchair-accessible shuttles.

• Parrot Lot Shawnee North Business Center 305 Shawnee North Drive at Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road

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Shadowbrook Church, 4187 Suwanee Dam Road

Bu fo rd

Parking is unavailable at Town Center during Suwanee Fest, and traffic in the Town Center area can be congested throughout the festival weekend. Please plan on utilizing the free shuttles for a hassle-free Suwanee Fest parking experience. Off-site festival parking and complimentary shuttles are available at three convenient locations:

e Satellit Blvd

The air-conditioned shuttles will run from 8 am-8 pm on Saturday, and from 11:30 am-7 pm on Sunday. Please note that bus service will be very limited during the parade, from 8:45 am-approximately 10:30 am on Saturday.

Dogs are welcome on the shuttles!

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Getting the Most Out of Sports and Clubs This Year AS FALL arrives you can almost feel the excitement in the air with sports and clubs ramping back up. Kids are settling back into practices and club meetings while parents are preparing for another exciting year of watching games and driving around with trunks full of sports gear and club materials. Lately, parents have been asking me for tips on how to help their kids get the most out of sports and clubs. I think it is a great question! Of course, parents want their kid’s experience to be positive, but what actually helps to create the positive experience kids and parents are looking for?

Sports and clubs can help kids build self-esteem, make new friends, have fun, and improve physical and mental health when kids have a positive experience. This experience is created by parents, coaches, teammates, friends, schools, and the larger community.

For example, how a parent responds when a kid loses a game or how a coach motivates their team during practice makes all the difference in creating a positive experience.

Tip: Focus on the Effort Comment and encourage your kid’s effort between the games or competitions, not just on if they win or receive a trophy. Kids can’t control if they win or lose but they can control how much effort they put into developing new skills and abilities. Keep in mind what you focus on increases. For example, if you want your kid’s determination to increase notice and make comments when they show determination.

One of the well-researched benefits of sports is developing self-esteem. The more self-esteem a kid develops the more they can use their self-esteem to overcome life challenges, build determination, develop grit, and think well of themselves in difficult social situations throughout their life.

These are qualities most parents want their kids to have so when they get knocked down figuratively or literally, they think they are worth getting back up to try again.

Tip: Physical and Mental Health Check-Ins Some kids want to please others and win so much they may push themselves to unhealthy physical and mental health. Encourage your kids to check in with themselves to see if they are in ongoing physical or mental pain. Let them know it is OK to take care of themselves. This can help to build self-esteem and communicate to them that they are important and valued as a person

and not just valued for their intellect or physical abilities.

These tips are just a starting point.

There are many ways to help develop a positive experience for your kids in sports and clubs. Take a quick moment to think of some other ways you can help create a positive experience that are specific to your kids and the clubs and sports they are participating in. Have fun and enjoy all the new experiences you and your kids will have this year! ■

JENNIFER WILMOTH, LMFT Jennifer Wilmoth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Thrive Forward Therapy in the Suwanee area with over a decade of experience.

She received her Masters of Family Therapy from Mercer University School of Medicine.

She works with families and individuals dealing with a variety of concerns. She specializes in working with couples who want to improve their relationship, teens experiencing difficulties at home or school, children experiencing behavioral or relational concerns, anxiety, and depression. Learn more at ThriveForwardTherapy.com.

References: Collins, N.M, Cromartie. F, Butler, S., Bae, J. (2018). Effects of early sport participation on self-esteem and happiness. Sport Journal, (20) 1-20.

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Fall is in the air, which means it’s time to once again meet under those Friday night lights! Each year in our fall issue, we like to spotlight student athletes in our community. This year, we reached out to five local schools to ask them to select a member of the football team, cheerleading team, and band to represent their school — THE ULTIMATE SPIRIT SQUAD.

BY ALICIA CARTER / PHOTOS BY PAUL PERDUE

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NORTH GWINNETT HIGH SCHOOL

North Gwinnett High School’s Josh Murzello, Taylor Champitto, and Jayymen Rochell are ready for Friday nights under the lights.

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TAYLOR CHAMPITTO

What are your plans after you graduate? I plan on attending

Ole Miss or Mississippi State and hopefully cheering there.

SENIOR / CHEERLEADER How did you get involved in cheerleading? I started

What are the best words of wisdom you received from your coach? The best words of wisdom I

cheering in third grade and have cheered ever since.

What’s your favorite memory from cheering? My

have heard from my coaches are to have fun and enjoy every moment while you can before it's all over.

favorite memory is winning the Game Day State Championship this year.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

I am most looking forward to cheering Friday nights on the sidelines.

My advice for younger players is to enjoy every moment of your four years in high school because you blink and it’s over.

JOSH MURZELLO SENIOR / DRUM MAJOR How did you get involved in band? I got involved in band

in sixth grade following my older brother’s footsteps into the band program. I thought, “What’s there to lose?” Plus, all my friends are doing it.

Now looking back seven years later, it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life.

What’s your favorite memory from band? If I had to pick one, I’d

have to say the bus rides are some of the most unforgettable experiences.

The fun that comes out of those trips, the terrible free-styling, and the even worse singing are some of my favorite memories.

How do you balance academics and cheer?

I stay organized and stick to a schedule to keep me on track.

“It’s not often as a coach that you have an athlete that is hard working, dependable, and coachable all at the same time, but that is at the core of who Taylor Champitto is. She is a young lady who represents TABATHA JOHNSON North Gwinnett CHEERLEADING COACH, Cheer at its NORTH GWINNETT finest.”

HIGH SCHOOL

What are you most looking forward to this season?

I’m most looking forward to competitions and a full football season this year. This past year, we weren’t able to perform our show at any competitions and weren’t able to support our Dawgs at away games. I’m more than excited to finally be able to display all our passion and hard work as much as possible this season.

How do you balance academics and band?

It is a lot of time commitment, and time is very limited to put into other activities like academics. Personally, I use an agenda to I can assure younger stay organized and members of the band that make sure I’m able every single second spent to manage my time in those practices is worth and keep up with it for the unforgettable deadlines as the memories and friendships season goes on.

you make along the way.

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JAAYMEN ROCHELL SENIOR / CENTER / HEIGHT: 6’ / WEIGHT: 190 How did you get involved in football?

Football is something that has been imbedded in my family since I was born. In GFL once it was time to register for 6-yearold football, you can bet that I was the first one to register. I played it that year and I just have loved it and continued to do it ever since. At this point it is a lifestyle.

What are you most looking forward to this season? I'm still trying to decide if I'm

most looking forward to playing an out-of-state football team in the best stadium in America (Corky Kell vs. Hoover), or if I'm more looking forward to reclaiming our region title on an ESPN game against Collins Hill.

Do you have a game-day ritual?

Absolutely, it consists of a day full of drinking water and Pedialyte while listening to R&B until about 15 minutes before game time. That is when I will switch to some hip-hop to get the juices flowing a little.

How do you balance academics in your sport? I take pride in being a student athlete.

It's that simple. I acknowledge that in order to play stress-free and know that I won't have to worry about something stopping me from playing football, I must take care of things in the classroom. I even want to open up my college options by getting good grades.

What are your plans after you graduate?

My plans are simple. Play Division I football and set myself up for the potential of an NFL career while getting a great degree for when the time comes for me to hang up the cleats.

My advice to younger players is to realize your skills and capabilities.

Don't sell yourself short simply because you think that these guys are simply better than you.

“Jaaymen is an elite player and a young man of great character. His hard work and commitment to the team have earned him the respect and admiration from his peers and coaches.

He has always been front and center when it comes to BILL STEWART any community HEAD FOOTBALL COACH, service our team has NORTH GWINNETT participated in.”

HIGH SCHOOL

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COLLINS HILL HIGH SCHOOL

SAM HORN

SENIOR / QB / HEIGHT: 6’4”/ WEIGHT: 190LBS

How did you get involved in football? When I was

younger, I always played flag football or played outside with my brothers. Then when I had the chance to play rec I signed up and played then.

What’s your favorite memory from football?

Sophomore year when we won the Walton game on a game-winning drive and touchdown pass.

What are you most looking forward to this season? Getting back to the state championship and

winning it all.

Do you have a game-day ritual? I always eat

McDonald’s for a pregame meal.

What are your plans after you graduate? Either

go to college at the University of Missouri or enter into the MLB Draft.

It’s pretty amazing that you excel as a baseball player as well as on the football field. Tell us a little about the opportunity and decision to play both sports in college? It’s definitely going to be a

Collins Hill High School’s Sam Horn is one of the top 10 quarterbacks in the country.

My advice for younger players is to have fun when playing any sport and compete with everything you do.

different experience and I will always be busy, but it’s nothing I’m not used to. I've always dreamed about playing both for as long as I can, and as of now I still have that chance so I’m going to take it.

“Sam is a three-year starter and has completely changed our program with his ability to throw the football.

Last year he set several passing records and by the mid-point of this season he will have all the passing records at Collins Hill. Sam is one of the top 10 quarterbacks in the country. Sam is also one of the top baseball recruits in the country and will play both baseball and football at Missouri. Sam is extremely talented, but on our team he is a humble leader who never misses a single practice and is one of the hardest workers on the team.

He excels in the classroom and on the field. Sam is a winner LENNY GREGORY in everything he does.” HEAD FOOTBALL COACH, COLLINS HILL HIGH SCHOOL

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ISA BELL SENIOR / CHEERLEADER How did you get involved in cheer?

I started cheer in my sophomore year at Collins Hill. I was initially on the JV/ Junior Varsity football and basketball spirit cheer teams, but since then I’ve mainly stuck to football spirit cheer. I didn’t really know anyone on the team at the time, so I mainly just got involved because it was something that deep down, I’ve always wanted to do and get involved with.

What’s your favorite memory from cheer? My

favorite memory has to be from this past season! There was a certain game where we had been struggling to get a final touchdown and, when one of the guys finally scored, the crowd got so loud and excited that it was deafening!

You couldn’t hear anything besides cheering and the energy was contagious. We all left our positions to jump around and hug each other because we were all just that happy. It felt like one of those perfect, classic movie moments!

What are you most looking forward to this season? I seriously just can’t

wait for this season to start!

After how our last one ended, I feel like this is going to be the season where everyone gives it their all and makes the best of every game we get! I also am so happy to be on such a fantastic team for my senior year. I plan on enjoying every moment I have with the other cheerleaders and my coach to the fullest and making some great memories.

If I could offer anything to the little athletes out there wanting to cheer, it would be to just go ahead and do it! Don’t let the fear hold you back from something that is so much FUN. Do you have a game-day ritual? It might sound a bit

weird, but I have the same pair of lucky socks I wear for every game! I promise, I wash them, but I just can’t go to any game without them or I just feel off. It’s a bit of a superstition I guess!

How do you balance academics and cheer? I

try my best to always prioritize school first. As wonderful as it is to be a part of such a great team, it’s important to stay on top of my grades and to make sure that I’m not falling behind. I feel like if I’m not doing the best I can in school, I’m not going to be able to do my best in other areas, including cheer. I always try to stay in communication with my coach and teachers if I’m ever struggling and I make sure to ask for help when I need it.

What are your plans after you graduate? After I

graduate, I plan on continuing my education in college and pursuing a degree in labor and delivery nursing! I am hoping to attend college out of state and see what else is out there for me to experience.

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CATHERINE LANE SENIOR / BAND - PERCUSSION How did you get involved in band? I’ve always loved music,

whether it was jamming out to songs with my siblings and babysitter when I was younger, listening to all of my parents’ favorite ’80s hair bands, or starting to learn guitar in elementary school.

As a result, band was a bit of a natural progression for my love of music. My sister was already in orchestra which only furthered my interest in taking a music class in middle school and high school. An hour a day where my only focus was to do my favorite thing, it was a clear no-brainer.

Why did you choose this instrument? Percussion was a

choice that came rather naturally to me. The fact that I get to play and learn so many different instruments, like a marimba, timpani, or vibraphone, alongside the wellknown snare, bass, and tenors, truly sold me on percussion. As well as the fact that I get to experience so many more instruments than I would if I had decided on anything else. Percussion has a variety that has always kept me entertained and enticed.

What’s your favorite memory from your time with the band? It's a toss-up

between two different ones. The first was the final competition during my freshman year; we had a horrible practice during the morning before the competition. We weren’t together and the overall morale was the lowest it had been all season.

The drum majors were able to boost morale through one of the best inspirational speeches I’ve ever heard, and when we went to the competition, we killed it. We won second overall and won first in every category in our class. What really made it, though, were the people, that senior group was amazing and holds some of the best people I’ve ever met and performing with them one final time meant so much.

They were mentors and friends and the fact that we left that season on such a high note was the perfect possible ending.

The second memory is from indoor drumline GIPA Champs this past year. It was the season that we got to return to competing and after no marching band competitions in the fall and our previous indoor season getting cut short due to COVID, this season meant the world.

Each competition My advice for younger was great, but members is to just go for it. the last one was Taking that leap of faith and outstanding.

We performed saying, “I’m going to do this,” better than we introduces you to a world ever had before of hard-working, extremely and the looks on talented, and absurdly my freshmen’s faces

kind individuals.

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were a testament to the love we all have for each other and the activity. Winning gold for our class didn’t mean as much as getting to see the people that I have grown so incredibly close to see what it’s all about, and watching them show their true potential that I knew they had from the first practice.

What are you most looking forward to this season? I’m

looking forward to finally getting back to competitions. Last year definitely did not feel the same without those long Saturdays that I wouldn’t trade for the world.

Without the bus rides back and forth and the thrill of a crowd that is there just for marching band, the season just didn’t feel quite right.

What are your plans after you graduate? After I graduate, I

will be heading off to college to study digital media and new-age marketing. I would like to work in digital marketing and presentation for companies or individuals.

What are the best words of wisdom you received from your band director? “Don’t look at

me when you mess up.” It sounds odd without an explanation, but one of the first things I used to always do, was make a face and stare at my instructors when I would screw up. Not only did it throw me off because I would stop focusing on the music I was playing, but it also robbed me of the ability to screw up and fix it on the next rep because it stayed in my head. Hearing them say that gave me the reassurance that it’s alright to mess up as long as you get back in it, and you fix it in the next rep. So, while it doesn’t seem like much, those words helped build my confidence in my playing ability because it allowed me to mess up and fix it. Them getting more upset at me looking at them because I messed up rather than getting upset because I messed up, helped to remove any worries and allowed me to be human and mess up sometimes, because I know they have confidence in my ability to correct myself.

PEACHTREE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL Peachtree Ridge High School’s Carlos Fuller, Rachel Hoang and Jubal Capri are full of school spirit.

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CARLOS FULLER SENIOR / LINEBACKER / HEIGHT: 5’11” / WEIGHT: 210 How did you get involved in football?

JUBAL CAPRI SENIOR / CHEER CAPTAIN How did you get involved in cheerleading?

I got involved in the fourth grade, after years of begging my parents to join the squad! I had been doing gymnastics and tumbling for a while, and eventually began to cheer both recreationally and competitively. It was at that point that I realized cheerleading was my true passion.

What’s your favorite memory from your time cheering?

My favorite memory was being able to participate in Cheer Off each year. Our team would work on a routine throughout the season to showcase at this cheer competition, and we even won first place one year! It was a very exciting event, and very rewarding to see that our hard work all season had finally paid off in the end.

What are you most looking forward to this season? Leading

my squad as Cheer Captain this season!

My favorite stunt is a full extension, because I love the feeling of being able to put someone else all the way up in the air and have them trust me enough to catch them.

How do you balance academics and cheer?

It is challenging to balance both academics and cheer, as I value and strive to be very successful at both.

However, I just have to remind myself that despite the stress and workload of school, cheer is something that I chose to do because I am passionate about it, and therefore it is very important to take a moment each day to disconnect from the other stresses in my life and fully participate in what I enjoy doing.

My father believed I needed something to do instead of sitting on my behind. I do thank him for that, though.

What’s your favorite memory from your time playing football?

My favorite memory was in the seventh-grade playoff game against Mill Creek. I had broken my thumb but didn’t really feel it because of the adrenaline. Even so, I had two huge carries at running back that brought us back in the game and the rush from the stands and teammates cheering for me was amazing.

It will always be my favorite football moment.

What are you most looking forward to this season? This

season I’m looking forward to seeing how our team chemistry works out on the field and seeing how much we trust each other as brothers.

How do you balance academics and football? I balance

football and academics by making sure every free moment I get, whether at home or in school, I make sure I do my homework.

What are your plans after you graduate?

My plans after I graduate are to go to school to become a nurse. I also plan on likely continuing to cheer through college.

What are the best words of wisdom you received from your coach? The best

words of wisdom I received from my coach were to not stress about things that are out of my control, and to pray about anything that was causing me to feel anxious.

My advice for young players is to work every moment you get. Because all that work will help you succeed on the field and become the best player you can be and your team needs.

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PEACHTREE RIDGE HIGH SCHOOL

My band director always tells me to “strive to be better than average.” In other words, do more than just the bare minimum.

RACHEL HOANG JUNIOR / DRUM MAJOR What instrument do you play and how long have you played it? I am the

drum major in my school’s marching band.

I’ve been the drum major since sophomore year (I am a junior now).

I also marched trumpet my freshman year (played for about two years prior).

How did you get involved in band?

I got involved in band because I wanted to start an instrument in sixth grade and band seemed like the coolest option at that time.

What’s your favorite memory from your time with the band?

My favorite memory from my time with the band is literally just finishing any performance under the dark sky and bright lights of the football stadium. Throughout the whole performance, my body turns to autopilot

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and I don’t realize that I just performed until I am done. The feeling is indescribable.

What are you most looking forward to this season? I am

looking forward most to band competitions, especially the yummy fried Oreos they usually sell there.

Do you have a gameday ritual? My “game-

day ritual” is taking a nap before the game.

Those hour-long naps literally give me the BEST energy boost.

How do you balance academics and band? I try to pay more

attention in class that day so that there is less to do/study when I get home. I guess I do have to sacrifice sleep sometimes, too.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I really do not know yet, but I am considering the military.

LANIER HIGH SCHOOL Lanier High School’s Carson Thomas, Hector Montalvo Jr. and Abby O’Rouke are a triple threat.

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ABBY O’ROUKE SENIOR / CHEER LEADING How did you get involved in cheerleading? My

mom was a coach to my older siblings Mackenzie and Morgan. When I first started showing interest in cheer my mom signed up to be a coach and then later that year was asked to be the director for North Gwinnett rec. My uncle was the kicking coach for North Gwinnett, and my dad and grandfather played for North Gwinnett, so cheer just became a natural thing in my blood.

What’s your favorite memory from your time cheering? Last year while

COVID was at its highest, everyone wasn't really sure if we were going to get a season. Getting the text that we would have a season was probably the best memory. Everyone

was so excited, and it really brought everyone together as a team and we made the best memories.

Do you have a game-day ritual? I don't really have a

game-day ritual, but I do have a pair of lucky socks I wear at every game.

How do you balance academics and cheering? It’s hard

because most of the time I'm at cheer, whether it's comp or spirit, I have a lot of support who help me out and keeps me in check, like my parents and my coaches who have always helped me with academics.

What are your plans after you graduate?

After I graduate, I will enter the DMS program and will graduate with an associate’s degree, while being trained to become an ultrasound tech.

HECTOR MONTALVO, JR. SENIOR / MELLOPHONE How did you get involved in band? Both of my sisters

were in high school band a few years ago and they encouraged me to join as well. I started playing horn in the sixth grade and started taking lessons.

What’s your favorite memory from band? At competition

My advice for younger members is to just try to have fun! That's really what keeps you motivated to keep improving.

my sophomore year, it started pouring rain and we continued the show anyway, having arguably our best run of the year despite the weather.

My advice to younger cheerleaders would be to soak in the time they have with cheerleading. It goes by fast so enjoy it while they can.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

I'm most excited for marching band competitions this year.

We've been pushing ourselves this season, and the payoff in October is always worth it.

How do you balance academics and band?

It's difficult, but I try my best to finish schoolwork in class so that I can focus on band outside of school.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I hope to study music performance or music education, whether I stay in state or go to another school or conservatory out of state.

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LANIER HIGH SCHOOL

CARSON THOMAS SENIOR / QB / HEIGHT: 6’3" / WEIGHT: 200 How did you get involved in football?

I grew up watching football as a young kid, and when I grew of age to play, I immediately signed up to play. I loved football as a kid and was inspired by NFL players that I watched on television growing up.

What’s your favorite memory from your football? Our last game of the year my

freshman year. We won on a game-winning field goal while playing away against a really good Parkview team. It was a hard-fought victory that was a great memory.

What are you most looking forward to this season? I’m looking forward to competing

with my team as a senior. This team has a special bond, one that I believe will benefit us and allow us to compete with the best of the best this season.

Do you have a game-day ritual?

Although it sounds odd, I wear my left sock inside out while in the fieldhouse pre-game and during other activities like team meal or meetings.

How do you balance academics in your sport? I have a supporting family, along

with coaches and teachers who help me if I ever get swamped with either.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I plan to go to college to study law. Following my first four years, I intend to go to law school.

My advice to younger players is to keep the game fun. Allow yourself to remember that football is a game to be played and enjoyed.

“Carson is a tremendous example of what makes high school football great. Carson is a natural leader, very athletic and unbelievably intelligent. But really what makes Carson special is that he LOVES Lanier. He could have chosen to leave while sitting behind a two-year starter at QB, but Carson stayed, he trusted us as coaches and just loved and embraced where he was at. Carson drips a magnetic personality, good looks, and work DAVID WILLINGHAM ethic. He is our QB1, and HEAD FOOTBALL we are so lucky to have COACH, LANIER HIGH him leading our team.”

SCHOOL

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BUFORD HIGH SCHOOL Buford High School’s Savanna Wachter, River Wilson and Emilee Akins represent the Wolves.

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EMILEE AKINS SENIOR / CHEER CAPTAIN How did you get involved in cheerleading? I began

cheerleading when I was 5 years old because I was always surrounded by football with both of my older brothers playing, so then, it just made sense. I ended up falling in love with it, and 13 years later I wouldn't want it any other way!

What’s your favorite memory from cheering?

My favorite memory was cheering on the team when we won the state championship game in 2019. My brother was a senior on the team, and I got to celebrate with him on the field, in the rain, after the big win.

What are you most looking forward to this season? I

am most looking forward to cheering on the same group of boys I have since the age of 6, as well as cheering with some of the same girls — and having one last run all together.

Do you have a game-day ritual? My game-day ritual is

with my best friend, Whitney.

We listen to one specific song, home or away. We have never missed a game since sophomore year. I also wear the same Bare Minerals lipstick that just seems to be a superstition since winning state.

How do you balance academics and cheering?

I balance academics and cheer through lots and lots of planning. I have a written planner that I carry to every class and fill out for every assignment so that I always stay on top of my work, and to also keep track of all

practices and games. I also am a firm believer in no procrastination; it's better to get things done right when they come around.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I hope to attend the University of Georgia and participate in their Double Dawg program and obtain a master’s in education.

What are the best words of wisdom you received from your coach? The

best words of wisdom I have EVER received is from my dear coach Mrs. Shoemaker.

She has taught me the best way to deal with negativity and issues amongst other people is to love them with all you have and pray always for them by name. But also, to never forget you are so loved by so many people, and one person’s negativity will never define your life.

“I recommended Emilee because she is not only an outstanding cheerleader but an outstanding person.

Emilee is a leader on and off the sideline. She encourages others, teaches others, and is always willing to help. She brightens any room she walks into and has the best attitude no matter the circumstance.

She is one of our captains and has been CALLIE SHOEMAKER cheering her VARSITY FOOTBALL entire time CHEER COACH, BUFORD in school.”

HIGH SCHOOL

My advice to all younger cheerleaders is to never be afraid, to focus on the positive, and stand up for what is good no matter the judgment it may bring.

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BUFORD HIGH SCHOOL

SAVANNA WACHTER SENIOR / FLUTE How did you get involved in band? I became involved in band in the sixth grade mainly because my parents had forced me after I had shown the littlest interest at first.

They had met the old band director, Luther Harris, and were immediately hooked on his lively, optimistic, and extremely comedic personality, so they had signed me up even though I was a little bit nervous at first.

The best advice I have for younger players is to continue to push yourself and to not compare yourself to other musicians.

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What’s your favorite memory from band? By far, my favorite

memory in band was my freshman year when, at the McEachern Marching Invitational, we won our first ever grand championship as the Buford Band of Wolves. It was such an honor to experience such a great triumph with a group of individuals I had come to love so dearly over the course of the season as well as being one of the featured soloists in our show, entitled "Into the Woods.”

I would tell younger players that they should take school as serious as the sport they play.

What are you most looking forward to this season? What

I'm definitely looking forward to the most this season is being able to go back to at least a somewhat normal season with all of the regular activities, parades, and competitions we're able to attend throughout the season. I never really came to appreciate all of those parts of being a marching band member until that opportunity was taken away during the height of COVID last year.

Do you have a game-day ritual?

Yes, we do have a game-day ritual.

For years (I'm not exactly sure the number of years this has gone on), the Buford Band of Wolves has had a tradition of going around to all of your friends and fellow marching band members, linking hands with them, and pressing our thumbs together as hard as we can right before we go on to perform. In actuality, it acts as a way to physically "push out" all of the game-day or competition-day jitters and nervousness from our systems before we're set to play.

How do you balance academics and band? In terms of balancing

academics and band, I really made an effort to only put classes on my plate that I believe I enjoy and can really handle, especially with the marching band season being so hectic. If I enjoy a certain activity or academic class, I really motivate myself and believe I can achieve all that I put my mind to. Comparing my grades before band, this activity has possibly even made me smarter because I've learned how to manage my time better.

RIVER WILSON SENIOR / DEFENSIVE TACKLE / HEIGHT: 6’0” / WEIGHT: 275LBS How did you get involved in football? I went to the

Atlanta Falcons football game when they played the New England Patriots with my dad when I was 5 years old.

What’s your favorite memory from playing football? Wining the FBU

National Championship down in Naples, Florida, in 8th grade.

What are you most looking forward to this season?

Our first game against North Cobb in the Corky Kell Classic.

Do you have a game-day ritual? I listen to my playlist

called “every day” before each and every game.

How do you balance academics and football?

I really take advantage of the time that the teachers give us to do homework at the end of class.

What are your plans after you graduate? I plan on

attending the United States Naval Academy.

What are the best words of wisdom you received from your coach? Coach Snell

told us in FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes), “Wolves do not lose sleep over the option of sheep.” And I still live by this quote.

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local food, craft beer & wine trends

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RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: Charred rabbit with mushroom conserva and sunflower creams.

FALLING RABBIT

CHUCK AND BARBARA WOODS BRING AN ELEVATED YET APPROACHABLE DINING EXPERIENCE TO DOWNTOWN DULUTH WITH THEIR NEW RESTAURANT FALLING RABBIT.

BY ALICIA CARTER PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB said that eating is an act that encompasses all your senses. Nowhere is that more true locally than downtown Duluth’s newest restaurant, Falling Rabbit. Located in the Parsons Alley entertainment district, Falling Rabbit is the culmination of owners Chuck and Barbara Woods’ years of hard work and mutual love for food and drink. Chuck is an accomplished chef who has spent more than a decade in the hospitality industry, working his way from cook to sous chef in high-end Chicago restaurants like Girl and the Goat, Trench, and Tied House. He’s worked alongside noted chefs who hold James Beard awards and Michelin stars, who he says pushed him to grow as a young chef. “It was a really good experience to work in such a competitive environment,” Chuck says. “It was a nice school of hard knocks for a little while.”

Chuck met Barbara, who goes by Babs, during their time together at Trench. Babs is a hospitality veteran in her own right, having spent years working for different restaurant groups as the go-to person to help new restaurants get up and running. She describes her experience as “all over the spectrum,” but she really cut her teeth on the beverage side of things, running the gamut of dive bars to high-end establishments. She even worked with superstar bartender Jim Meehan to open Prairie School, a former cocktail bar in downtown Chicago. As Babs puts it, she went from “late night, fast-paced, vodka sodas for days” to super-refined, complex cocktails, some of which clocked in at up to 10 minutes to create.

T’S BEEN

Hamachi crudo with pickled plums, hibiscus leaves and kimchi mayo.

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During a trip to Georgia to visit Chuck’s family in late 2018, the pair found themselves driving by a historic masonry building for sale in downtown Duluth. As if by chance, they had stumbled upon the perfect location for a restaurant of their own that, until then, had only been a distant pipe dream. From there, things moved quickly. By April 2019, Chuck and Babs relocated to Georgia. They purchased the building that summer and made moves to open their restaurant here in the suburbs of Atlanta.

Even with build-out delays and COVID-19 rearing its head, Falling Rabbit officially opened its doors in November 2020, much to the delight of locals, many of whom quickly became regulars.

this weird thing she would say to herself and soon all the kids were saying it.” The name Falling Rabbit is a nod to those droll poems and sayings his mother would recite, which also act as a mantra that Chuck lives by today. “It’s a reminder to not take life so seriously all the time,” he says. “To just relax a little.”

And that’s exactly what Falling Rabbit embodies — it’s a restaurant that doesn’t take itself too seriously while simultaneously creating seriously tasty and sophisticated food.

Sense of Sight

 Walking into Falling Rabbit is like stepping into the pages of a fairy tale. The dark navy walls are accented with a curated collection of artwork and embellishments that gives patrons an introduction to the restaurant's whimsical tone. Salvador Sense of Sound Dalí’s melting clocks drip near a small  The name Falling Rabbit is an lineup of food-and-drink-related homage to Chuck’s mother and a books like The Drunken Botanist particular poem she would recite and Anthony Bourdain’s The Nasty when he was a kid. “I had one once Bits. Quotes from iconic writers but the wheels fell off so I said to the pop up unexpectedly, with Oscar King, ‘George, hold the umbrella, I’ll Wilde nestled next to naturewalk in the rain for a while.’ But it was themed artwork housed in small rabbit season and they were falling gilded frames. The back hallway out of the trees. I had one once.” floor is adorned with black-and “She had heard it somewhere white tiles reminiscent of an M.C. growing up,” Chuck says. “It was just Escher lithograph. The geometric design is accentuated by the adjacent mirrored wall with golden hands poking through holding light bulbs to light your path. The playful design is part Beetlejuice, part Alice in Wonderland, with flourishes that seem to pull you through the pages of the story the restaurant will soon tell with its menu.

It’s almost as though you’ve chased Alice through the forest, only to follow her down the rabbit hole and land in the dining room of Chuck and Bab’s own version Falling Rabbit owners Chuck and Barbara Woods

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of Wonderland. The decor is a nice setup for the food to come — elegant and modern with a hint of whimsy to pull it all together.

Illuminated letters across the back wall spell out, “Let me lick your plate.” It’s a challenge diners will happily accept.

Sense of Taste

 The food at Falling Rabbit is as thoughtful as the atmosphere that Chuck and Babs have created.

Composed of an ever-changing rotation of seasonally driven ingredients, the menu introduces a new dish each week so there’s always something new to try.

“There’s a lot of French technique, but I like to incorporate ingredients from all over,” he says. “I use a lot of Japanese ingredients, but there’s influence from everywhere.

We make all the pastas in house,

FOOD & DRINK The dining room at Falling Rabbit is the perfect mix of sophistication and whimsy.

IT’S ALMOST AS THOUGH YOU’VE CHASED ALICE THROUGH THE FOREST, ONLY TO FOLLOW HER DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE AND LAND IN THE DINING ROOM OF CHUCK AND BAB’S OWN VERSION OF WONDERLAND. do all the butchery in house — all the stuff.”

Chuck says he’s lucky to have assembled a crew that he trusts to execute his creative vision, including sous chefs Jonathan Marquez and Warren Jones. “I’ve got a really great crew of guys. We’ve spent a lot of time trying to hammer down how to make all this food come out of that tiny kitchen in an appropriate amount of time, so it’s been great seeing everybody transform or fall into roles that they’re really good

at and grow,” Chuck says. “We’re all a tight group of guys and I really try to push them creatively to come at food in a different way. I feel really lucky.”

The synergy of the team has resulted in a collection of dishes that are not only beautiful to look at, but that taste even better. Chuck’s affinity for Japanese ingredients is found in the standout hamachi crudo. A delicate portion of hamachi is served alongside pickled plums atop hibiscus leaves dotted with

kimchi mayo. Meant to be eaten as a wrap, the dish is light and refreshing and topped with tiny edible flowers. It’s a work of art on the plate; one that you almost feel guilty to mess up — until you take that first bite.

The charred rabbit arrives nestled in a bowl with wild mushroom conserva and sunflower crema. It’s hearty and earthy in the best way. The modest portion is deceiving; it’s surprisingly filling without being heavy, and the accompanying summer salad energizes the plate. It’s a nice follow-up to the bright opening act of the hamachi.

The berry tart is a satisfying end to the meal with four circular portions of different flavors that, while tasty on their own, create a delightful punch to your taste buds when combined together. The berry tart is smooth and velvety, served with mixed berry custard, candied jam, white chocolate, and a kumquat foam that nearly steals the show.

This is only a sampling of the menu, of course, which also includes a watermelon salad with pecorino crema, chorizo, and a pistachio crumble. A favorite appears to be the Wagyu brisket served on challah with sunchokes, shallots, and a barbecue drizzle. Of course, you can’t go wrong with one of the hand-crafted cocktails, each made with fresh ingredients and as much thought and care as the food coming out of the kitchen.

Come as you are

 Falling Rabbit is a welcome addition to the burgeoning restaurant scene of Gwinnett, which over the years has slowly begun to shy away from the ubiquitous chain restaurants that dominate the suburban landscape in favor of chef-driven establishments that challenge locals to step out of their comfort zone. These restaurants

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prioritize quality ingredients presented in smart and creative ways, making a dinner out with friends or loved ones a true experience — as it should be. And while the food is elevated, Falling Rabbit maintains a true neighborhood restaurant feel with a “come as you are” attitude that welcomes all. There’s no dress code here. The Date Night Special on Thursdays is an attractive introduction to the menu, and includes a three-course meal and a bottle of wine for two people for $120, a true bargain for the quality of food and service you’ll receive.

Just like Alice, those who stumble down the rabbit hole will come out better on the other side having been treated to Falling Rabbit’s fresh take on contemporary American cuisine. Chuck and Babs have crafted an exciting new experience for local diners who are hungry for something different, and we’d be remiss not to partake. ■

 Falling Rabbit is located at 3580 W. Lawrenceville St. in Duluth. The restaurant is open Wed.-Fri., 4-10 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-2 p.m and 4-10 p.m.; and Sun., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

For more information or to make a reservation, call 770-623-1452 or visit FallingRabbit.com.

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NOW BOOKING

H OL I DAY PART I E S StillFire Brewing is an ideal venue for corporate holiday parties, showers, weddings or an intimate gathering with friends. We can accommodate parties as small as 25 people to large gatherings up to 250.

Email events@stillfirebrewing.com

WHAT'S BREWING

BREWERY SPOTLIGHT:

Ironshield Brewing

Lawrenceville’s newest brewery is making a name for itself with its authentic reproduction of famous European styles of beer.

By Alicia Carter / Photos by David Rice OCATED JUST blocks from historic downtown Lawrenceville, Ironshield Brewing has found a home in the building that once belonged to the Gwinnett Daily Post.

The history of the building and its evolution into a craft brewery, which opened in July 2020, speaks to both the writer and the beer lover in me. To have been able to see those Heidelberg printing presses in all of their glory would’ve been a treat, but to walk among the towering two-story tanks that are helping to create Ironshield’s next batch of beer is just as fun. Equally as entertained is Ironshield’s co-founder and CEO David Rice, who leads me on a tour of the massive 55,000-squarefoot building, beginning with the taproom, which feels as though it was

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plucked from a small neighborhood in Germany, and through the warehouse, home to the brewing, cellaring and packaging operations.

We trek through each section of the building, passing brewers checking on beer and operators readying packaging lines as Rice speaks to the history of the building and the budding future of Ironshield. “People who have owned the building are now regular customers here,” he says.

“They love seeing the transformation and how it went from what it was and the history of the building to what it is today. They’re very pleased that it’s a brewery now.”

Rice’s background in manufacturing for companies like Coca-Cola and Microsoft combined with his love for beer uniquely positioned him to open a brewery like Ironshield, one that

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emphasizes authenticity through the science of brewing. “With a lot of the breweries there’s a lot of hard labor,” he says. “People are watching their watch, measuring temperatures and monitoring the process — a lot of brewing with their back. We wanted to put in a system where we are brewing with our minds, so we do a lot on the science side. And that’s really to drive the quality and reproducibility of a product.”

That reproducibility has come in handy with Big Kettle Brewing, another trademark, which offers contract brewing and packaging services to other breweries. While Big Kettle may currently be their bread and butter, growing Ironshield is a major focus for David and his team, and rightly so. The beer Ironshield produces is not just an homage to those famous European style beers, it’s a true reproduction of them and a welcomed addition to our local craft beer scene.

We recently spoke with Rice to learn more about Ironshield Brewing and the craft beer experience it’s bringing to Gwinnett.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND AND WHAT LED YOU TO OPEN IRONSHIELD BREWING. I’ve got a couple partners in this project. My main partner, Glen Sprouse, and I really came up with this idea a number of years back, so it took time to put together all of the funding. Both of us have backgrounds in manufacturing and the beverage and beer industry.

I spent 13 years at Coca-Cola in the enterprises division. I really loved it there. It was a great place. I never thought I would leave, but then Microsoft made me a deal I couldn’t refuse. So I spent five years at Microsoft as a strategist for the consumer goods manufacturing side. I got to work with some of the greatest manufacturing companies in the world through that. But all along, I had this love for beer.

During my Coca-Cola days, we were working on building a giant manufacturing plant down in New Orleans.

During that time, there was this guy I kept passing in

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FOOD & DRINK types, and many of those styles come from a geographic region: Germany, Czech Republic, England, Belgium — the list goes on and on. In each of those regions they’ve got certain agricultural raw material. Those beers became famous because they were delicious and made a certain way with certain processes and with certain raw materials. If you don’t use the same processes, if your equipment doesn’t have the same capabilities, if you don’t use the right raw materials, you don’t get what that beer was famous for. We go to great lengths to get the right raw materials. We bring in a lot of hops and grains from Europe and Germany so we can make those beers authentic.

From the get-go, the design of this was to build a bigger brewery and to use some of the very best equipment in the world. We were used to working with Coca-Cola, and they have the best equipment you can get. We knew what that kind of equipment was capable of and how it would function, so we wanted to build a brewery that, by design, could be a contract brewery that could brew and package any style of beer.

Ironshield Brewing took over the 55,000-square-foot former Gwinnett Daily Post building for its brewing operations.

the hallways, who turned out to be Glen. We were both working on the project and tangentially connected on a couple things we were doing down there. A year later we got invited to a mutual friend’s dinner party and it was like, “Hey, I know you!” Then we started talking — we talked manufacturing and engineering, then beer. We realized we had so much in common and we became best friends out of that.

Glen was also part of the lobbyist group that worked to get the laws changed to allow craft beer brew pubs to start in Georgia. He was instrumental in all that happening. He and another guy opened the first two brewpubs in the state. I used to go to his brewpub and drink his beer. I was also doing some competition brewing. It was like, “We both love beer and we both love manufacturing. We’ve got all this experience. Let’s go do this thing!”

TELL US ABOUT THE BEER IRONSHIELD PRODUCES. Every brewery has their thing, and our thing is primarily doing European-style ales and lagers and producing those exactly as they would be if you were to have them at those breweries that made those styles famous. When you look at all that we produce and our product line, we’re producing all sorts of styles. So, we’re not just doing one thing. There are so many different styles and flavor

TELL US ABOUT BIG KETTLE. We have two trademarks. In addition to Ironshield, we also have Big Kettle.

It’s not consumer facing, and we don’t advertise it, but we brew beer for other breweries and brands. Today, most of what we’re doing is beer and seltzers for other people. Ironshield is our own brand and that’s what we’re working to grow. Eventually, if Ironshield is really successful, it will take over this whole manufacturing operation.

WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO OPEN IN LAWRENCEVILLE? We wanted to be somewhere in the metro Atlanta area. The Atlanta metro area is the big rock in the Southeast. In our opinion, it is the place to be to start a brand and to grow that brand. We looked at a lot of buildings but none of them were exactly what we wanted. Then we stumbled upon this building, and we met people with the City of Lawrenceville and it was like, “OK, this really feels like home.” We like all the things that are going on here

— the historic Lawrenceville Square, the new restaurants, the Aurora Theatre, which is only a block and a half away.

The energy here is great. If we had come across this building a year later, we wouldn’t have been able to afford it, so the timing was really on our side.

The City of Lawrenceville was super supportive through the whole thing.

WHO IS YOUR LEAD BREWER? Our lead brewer Jason Carroll is from Cork, Ireland. He’s got a long background, and he was with the craft arm of Guinness in Ireland. He’s won best beer in the world [at the International Beer Awards in 2016]. He’s also world famous for a product called Jameson Caskmates. He’s a super talented brewer.

WHERE DID YOU COME UP WITH THE NAME IRONSHIELD? We feel very strongly about those who serve. If you look at police, fire and military, and first responders on the medical side, there’s a lot of people who have done a lot of good things for us as a nation. Most of those folks who are first responders, they wear a badge.

So, the shield is representative of that.

Ironshield is a nod in that direction — those are the causes that we really support. We support veterans, local law enforcement, and the local medical staff who are out on the front lines. We also try to do events and fundraisers to help those who serve.

SINCE THIS IS OUR FALL ISSUE, CAN YOU RECOMMEND A FALL BEER? The obvious choice is Oktoberfest. That’s in the tank right now. It was a hit last year. We went through all the beer that we had reserved for our taproom in just three and a half hours.

WHERE CAN PEOPLE FIND IRONSHIELD BEER OUTSIDE OF THE TAPROOM? We are in distribution across Georgia and we’re trying to grow that footprint. That’s our mission — to satisfy more thirsts. ■

I ronshield Brewing is located at 457 N. Chestnut St. in Lawrenceville. The taproom is open Wed.-Thurs., 5-9pm; Fri., 4-10pm; Sat., noon-10pm; and Sun., 1-6pm. For more information, visit IronshieldBrewing.com.

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WHAT'S BREWING

LEFT: Gold medal-winning Double Fightin' 13 was brewed as a tribute to the firefighters who once resided in the building that is now StillFire Brewing. BELOW: StillFire Brewing's Orange Diva Blood Orange Wheat beer was voted “Best Beer in Georgia” by festival attendees at the 2021 Suwanee Beer Fest.

StillFire Brewing Earns Seven Medals at the 2021 Can Can Awards SUWANEE'S HOMETOWN BREWERY HAS AN IMPRESSIVE SHOWING AT THIS YEAR’S BEER COMPETITION WINNING GOLD, SILVER AND BRONZE MEDALS.

By Lizzy James / Photos by Gary Dowd

passion for brewing is reflected in the quality of beers the Georgia brewery has consistently produced since opening their doors in a renovated fire station in 2019.

In their first year of operation, the brewery earned seven national and regional awards, including a bronze medal in the beer world’s most prestigious competition, the Great American Beer Festival for their popular Blood Orange Wheat beer, Bronze medal-winning Hopnoxious Double IPA Orange Diva. Orange Diva was also voted "Best Beer in Georgia" at this year's Suwanee Beer Fest. The brewery can now add SEVEN more medals to their growing list of accomplishments thanks to their impressive showing at the 2021 Can Can Awards.

The Can Can Awards is the premier beer competition focused solely on canned STILLFIRE BREWING’S

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craft beers. The competition promotes the benefits of canned beer and attempts to disrupt the beverage industry by elevating the conversation to speed up the adoption of canned craft beer. It is the organizers’ sincere hope that a can-only competition can change the perception that some beer styles are “not good for cans.” Judging was held in Atlanta in July by Beer Judge Certification Program and Cicerone-certified judges and industry professionals. gold, silver, and bronze medals are awarded to the three beers that best represent each individual category of beers.

Over 750 submissions from around the world were entered in this year’s competition. StillFire Brewing’s popular Double Fightin’ 13 Double Red IPA came out on top with a gold medal in the Red IPA category. The beer was special as it was brewed as a tribute to the firefighters who once resided in the building that is now StillFire Brewing. In addition, the brewery also received three silver medals for their Dark Moo’d Imperial Stout, O’Farrell’s Irish Red Ale (named after brew master Phil Farrell), and Hugh Hefnerweisen Weissbier. To round out the awards the brewery also received three bronze medals for their Belgian Golden

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Bronze medal-winning Suwanee Devil Belgian Golden Strong Ale

Strong Ale, Suwanee Devil, Old Chief Inspector English Barleywine and HopNoxious Double IPA. “Bringing home not one, but SEVEN medals at this year’s Can Can Awards is a huge recognition,” says StillFire Brewing brew master Phil Farrell. “Our brewing team is excited to keep producing innovative, award-winning craft beers that we can offer to the Suwanee community and beyond. Winning a silver medal for a beer named in my honor is just the icing on the cake!”

StillFire Brewing is located in the heart of downtown Suwanee, Georgia.

To learn more about the brewery and their award-winning beers visit stillfirebrewing.com. ■

FOOD & DRINK

UP COMIN G EVEN TS AT ST I LLFI R E B R EWI N G: SEPT

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Disco Party featuring The Neon Queen

Attention ABBAholics: looking for your “Dancing Queen” fix?

ABBA cover band The Neon Queen performs live at StillFire Brewing Friday, September 24th, at 9pm. It will be a night of soaring three-part harmonies, 80s-style synthpop beats, crazy mash-ups, and an incredible light show all inspired by the greatest pop act of all time. Pure 100% ABBAtainment! Plus - win great prizes in StillFire Brewing's disco costume contest starting at 8:30. $5 cover.

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OktoberFest at StillFire Brewing

Dust off your lederhosen and get to StillFire for traditional German food and live music under a giant OktoberFest tent! Plus, the brewery will debut five authentic German beers including: a Märzen, a Doppelbock, a Hefeweizen, a German Chocolate Cake Sticke Altbier and a Dunkelweizenbock! $10 cover begins each day at 3pm.

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StillFire Brewing 2nd Anniversary Party

We still can't believe it's been two years since StillFire Brewing opened their doors – time flys when you are drinking great beer! The anniversary celebration starts at noon on Saturday, October 16th with live music, food trucks, and exclusive special barrel-aged anniversary bottle releases! This is one you don't want to miss!

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Halloween Dueling Pianos

The Andrews Brothers are making their return to the outdoor StillFire stage for an all-request, adults-only, sing-a-long music and comedy show on October 30th! $10 cover charge beginning at 6pm. There will be no cover charge for those just hanging out in the taproom. Plus - enter StillFire Brewing's annual Halloween costume contest to win great prizes!

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For more information on all the events going on at StillFire Brewing go to stillfirebrewing.com/calendar.

1ST ANNUAL

STILLFIRE BREWING

FIND YOUR FIRE CHARITY CLASSIC BENEFITING THE FIND YOUR FIRE FOUNDATION FUND

NOVEMBER 2ND, 2021 AT THE RIVER CLUB IN SUWANEE Join us at The River Club for a fun-filled day as we raise money for the SitillFire Brewing Find Your Fire Charity Foundation.

All golfers receive a custom gift bag, tournament shirt, lunch and dinner. Silent and art auction and awards ceremony with cash bar to follow at The River Club.

Sign up at: findyourfirefoundation.com For questions and inquires, contact Mike Burke at 770-364-5498 or burkemj58@gmail.com.

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PARTY HACKS with Nat

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

NATALIE GARRETT Contributing Writer

Eat, Drink & Be Scar y !

NOT FEELING THE HALLOWEEN SPIRIT YET? THESE SPOOKTACULAR IDEAS ARE SURE TO GET YOU IN A FRIGHTENINGLY FESTIVE MOOD FOR YOUR NEXT SPOOKY SOIREE! rolls around (and before my Christmas-crazy starts kicking in), I thrive on all things Halloween. The spooky decorations, eerie soundtracks, clever costumes, frightening movies, gory tricks and cavity-inducing treats… however, if you’re unlike me, who gets thrilled by an epic Freddy vs. Jason battle, then that’s completely acceptable, too! Pumpkins and princesses? DONE! Halloween doesn't have rules or an age limit. It gives kiddos the opportunity to live out their super hero and heroine fantasies, while adults can embody their inner-child and embrace group costumes with their friends or family. These are the best parts of this holiday — it’s the one day of the year that you’re guaranteed to enjoy however you decide to celebrate. So, wherever the ghosts may lead you this year, here are a few of my favorite festive ideas that are suitable for anyone feeling the Halloween spirit.

HEN OCTOBER

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Spider Bowls I’m so fond of this idea for a few different reasons: It works for a variety of events whether you’re attending a party or staying in for the night hosting a Halloween-themed movie night.

You can involve the littles! This is a simple, hands-on craft using minimal materials, making it an amusing Halloween activity in itself.

They’re just plain adorable! It takes snack time up a notch, making you look like a Pinterest pro.

Creating your spider bowls: 1. Gather your materials: Black bowls. Any black bowl will work for this! I bought ceramic bowls from the Dollar Tree, but plastic would serve the same purpose.

Black pipe cleaners. I chose these “bump” chenille stemmed pipe cleaners from Hobby Lobby because I felt they gave the spider legs a little more dimension, but your standard pipe cleaners would also do!

Adhesive. Since my bowls were ceramic, I went with a less permanent approach - small pieces of tape. If your bowls are plastic, or you want them for more long-term use, I’d recommend using a hot glue gun.

2. Assemble your spiders: With a bowl around the size of a cereal bowl, you’ll be able to make two legs out of one pipe cleaner. I cut the pipe cleaners in half and then folded one end of the pipe cleaner into a 90 degree angle, just long enough to sit flat against the side of the bowl (about one half of an inch). I taped this flat end of the pipe cleaner to the side of the bowl and then bent the pipe cleaner around the middle so it angled down toward the table. I added four legs on each side, and VIOLA!

Using your spider bowls: Constructing the bowls is only half of the entertainment — FILLING the bowls is your chance to really get imaginative. The options are endless! Personally, I find great joy in associating edible items with catchy names that follow the theme. For example:

Candy corn = Jack O’Lantern Teeth Marshmallows = Ghost Dust Pretzels = Witch's Broomstick Cheeto balls = Pumpkin Poop Whoppers = Spider Eggs White chocolate covered pretzels = Skeleton Bones You can easily incorporate a label either onto or next to the bowls, which is a sure-fire way to get a grin from everyone who comes across this snack spread. You could also add a large bowl of popcorn for guests to mix similar goodies into (“monster munch” perhaps?) or even assorted nuts to form personalized portions of trail mix (or would that be a “haunted trail” mix?).

You’ve been BOOed! Or BOOzed…

The first time I was “BOOed” - I fell in love with the idea! A close neighbor friend of mine alarmingly knocked on my door and took off running, which quickly left me questioning what trouble she was up to… then I noticed on the ground sat a Halloween-style candy bucket filled with some of my favorite treats and a note that read “You’ve been BOOed!” Also included with my treats was a miniature-sized bottle of my favorite adult beverage (champagne) with another note that read “Couldn’t forget the BOOze!” I was tickled! I found this to be such an easy and effective way to spread some Halloween cheer and let someone know you were thinking about them.

As another aspect of the holiday that lacks rules or an age limit, I thought this could even become an exciting exchange in an office or work setting (think Secret Santa, but Secret Skeleton). It could also provide children another chance to flex their creative muscles by decorating paper lunch sacks and filling them with delectables for a fa-BOO-lous friend.

A teachable moment initiating a random act of kindness that exercises their minds and motor skills, while also being engaging and festive?

Parenting win!

Have a safe (and scary) Halloween!

- Natalie

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THE LATEST FROM IN AND AROUND SUWANEE

Gwinnett Company Offers Pre-Prepared Lunches for Kids A NEW local service is giving busy parents time

back in their day. Lunch Box Kid prepares, preps, packages, and delivers nutritious, yummy meals that kids ages 4-15 will love. No need to worry about making school lunches anymore.

The meals are prepared and delivered with love to your front door every Sunday and are ready to go for the week.

Just store them in your refrigerator and take one of the five meals out in the morning. Lunch Box Kid is locally owned here in Gwinnett County. Weekly subscriptions start delivering on September 19, 2021. Use code SUWANEEMAGAZINE for 50% off your first week! For more information, visit LunchBoxKidinc.com.

SUWANEE FINE ARTS GALLERY FEATURES INTERNATIONAL AND LOCAL ARTISTS P FINE ART is an international fine arts gallery located in Suwanee that features European, Asian and local artists. P Fine Art has participated in international art fairs and group shows, such as the Santa Fe International Art Fair, KIAF Art Seoul, Art Expo NYC, Red Dot Miami and Art Dubai UAE. The gallery has also been recognized by many art critics from around the world as a highly notable worldwide group. P Fine Art recently put out a call for local artists to participate as a Gallery Fellow Artist. In addition, the gallery regularly hosts art classes for adults.

P Fine Art is located at 894 Scales Road in Suwanee. For more information, call 404-667-3880

Suwanee Police Officer Delivers Baby On July 9, Jennifer Willingham-Lane went into labor. She and her husband, Michael, headed for the hospital excited for the birth of their second child. During the drive to Northside Hospital, Jennifer could feel that the baby was coming very quickly, and they would not make it to the hospital, so Michael pulled into the substation on Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road to ask for help. The officer on duty called for an ambulance and requested additional help.

Officer Ashley Kessler and Corporal Jeff Covert responded immediately. After a quick assessment of Jennifer, Kessler got a pair of

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gloves and called her boyfriend’s mother, Kathy Trawick, who walked Kessler through the birth of Charlotte, who made her debut just four minutes after her parents pulled into the parking lot.

“The baby was crowning upon arrival,” Kessler said. “Thank goodness Kathy answered the phone! The baby didn’t cry immediately, so Kathy walked me through clearing her airways.”

The paramedics arrived shortly after and safely transported Jennifer and baby Charlotte to Northside Hospital.

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“I realized after they left that I didn’t even know if the baby was a girl or boy!” said Kessler. “I’m pretty proud to say that I delivered a baby before my boyfriend, who is in physician assistant school.”

Braselton Cancer Center Provides a One-Stop Destination for Expert Cancer Care

JPAR METRO Atlanta Receives Franchise Rock Star Award CONGRATULATIONS TO Chris and Lisa Schlitz and all the agents and staff at JPAR Metro Atlanta Brookhaven & Suwanee and JPAR South Florida Living.

They have been awarded the Franchise Rock Star Award by the Franchise Business Review.

This year, only two real estate franchise teams were recognized by the Franchise Business Review across the entire United States, and Chris and Lisa were one of them.

In just two years, JPAR Metro Atlanta Brookhaven & Suwanee and South Florida Living have achieved national recognition.

In addition to the many awards given to JPAR corporate, the individual franchise offices are now starting to achieve notoriety across the country. This is because both the agents and staff are rock stars — and what makes them rock stars? The JPAR model: 100% commission, full-service brokerage support, zero monthly fees, training, coaching, mentoring, technology, free leads, and brick-and-mortar offices.

The primary reason for this recognition, however, is simply Chris and Lisa. Because of them, their team can offer unparalleled support to boost their agents' real estate careers, and in turn help them also achieve rock star status.

PEOPLE LIVING in the rapidly growing area surrounding Braselton now have a onestop destination for expert cancer care.

Located inside Medical Plaza 1 on the campus of NGMC Braselton, the Braselton Cancer Center offers patients a dedicated entrance and parking, as well as an expanded footprint overall.

“This new collaborative space puts our patients’ needs front and center by providing a more cohesive environment with access to both medical oncology/ hematology and radiation oncology services within steps of each other,” says Charles Nash III, MD, FACP, medical director of NGMC’s Cancer Services and medical oncologist with Longstreet Clinic.

“We understand how challenging it can be to navigate cancer care,” adds Kevin Matson, vice president of Cancer Services for Northeast Georgia Health System. “Our shared goal was to create the best possible experience for our cancer patients. From the dedicated entrance to the close proximity of services, everything has been designed with patient comfort and healing in mind.”

While patients visiting Medical Plaza 1 could previously visit both Longstreet Clinic’s Medical Oncology and Hematology and Northeast Georgia Physicians Group’s Radiation Oncology, they had to travel to multiple places. Now there are less miles to drive and steps to take. Plus, Longstreet Clinic more than doubled its previous space, adding a larger waiting area and more exam rooms for its patients.

“As the Braselton area continues to grow, this larger space for our patients and providers is crucial,” says Mimi Collins, Longstreet Clinic’s CEO. “The unified space means less logistics for patients to worry about, so they can focus on their health.

I’m thrilled with the outcome of this group’s hard work and collaboration – a beautiful new healing space welcoming cancer patients with ease and accessibility.”

Longstreet Clinic and NGPG are integral parts of NGMC’s Cancer Services program, which provides care for almost 3,000 new cancer patients each year.  Learn more about the Braselton Cancer Center at nghs.com/Braselton-cancer-center.

Physicians joined together to celebrate the recent opening of the new Braselton Cancer Center. Pictured left to right: Drs. Malay Rao and Geoffrey Weidner, with Northeast Georgia Physicians Group Radiation Oncology and Drs. Shravanti Macherla, Yamin Sun and Andrew Johnson, with Longstreet Clinic Medical Oncology and Hematology.

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THE BUZZ

Suwanee-Based Company Uses Virtual Reality Technology to Train Law Enforcement and Military shooting range owners around the world past 18 months, one thing for more than 90 years. everyone can agree on is that police Now, in addition to the live-fire training can be faced with incredibly challenging with wireless weapon simulators and situations and being trained to virtual 2D technology, InVeris has taken communicate and make good decisions virtual to the next level, launching a extremely quickly in a variety of totally immersive experience using virtual circumstances is crucial. reality (VR) technology.

InVeris Training The user slips on the VR Solutions aims to The mission of headset and wireless help with just that. adaptor, holds the gun Headquartered here InVeris is to provide or other weapon in in Suwanee in a the world’s premier their hand while the 235,000-square-foot training solutions for instructor controls the facility off Brogdon situation, including the Road, the mission of when split-second virtual perpetrator’s InVeris is to “Provide decisions matter. responses. “There has the world’s premier been lots going on in our training solutions for community and around when split-second the world. Drawing that decisions matter.” gun isn’t just the end Formerly Meggitt all be all. It’s really the Training Systems, a decisions and tactics you Washington D.C.use when you talk to an based private equity individual. Exactly how firm, Pine Island you are going to talk to Capital Partners, that individual, and how purchased the you are going to help them. They actually company last year and renamed it InVeris. have to learn how to talk to people According to Eric Perez, Director of before they ever engage,” says Perez.

Virtual Sales & Business Development, The VR technology immerses the user InVeris is a play on two words: innovation in the situation to actually feel like they and trust. Through its legacy brands are there, allowing them to train to do FATS and Caswell, the company is just that. known as a leading live-fire and virtual Johnathan Ayala, Sales Manager for systems provider for defense forces, law InVeris, former Marine, police officer and enforcement agencies, and commercial

FOR THE

firearms instructor, says, “CIT Training (Critical Incident Response Training) is really big in our community right now. It’s for your negotiation situations, your hostage rescue situations. But how do we practice it? Let’s put you in a simulator.” Ayala continues, “The fact is, we can bring you in a simulation and give you different situations over and over. You are going to be more experienced.

It’s not about getting it right or wrong, it’s about learning from it here, in a safe environment vs. you going on the street and getting it wrong and costing someone their life or your career.”

Much of the team at InVeris is made up of former military and police with real-world experience, who give input to developers on what being in an escalated situation is actually like, determine whether or not the virtual weapons feel right, and speak to clients and potential clients about how this technology can really help take their officers or military personnel’s training to the next level. What sets them apart from other companies in this space is that they are a training company that also has technology.

So far (as of July), InVeris had more than 70 systems that had been fielded and the demand is growing rapidly. The California Peace Officers Standards & Training Council, who determines the minimum standards an officer must train to, decided to go VR, and chose InVeris because of their great technology and pedigree in the market. They bought simulators for the entire state so all regional training centers and large training agencies will have them.

Ayala shares of the VR system, “We try to put you into different scenarios. It’s no longer shoot, don’t shoot. It’s communicate, let’s talk. You have multiple tools on your belt. You have to start training for everything.”

For more information on InVeris, visit InVerisTraining.com.

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NORTH GWINNETT SENIOR ILLUSTRATES A COLLECTION OF CHILDREN’S POEMS NORTH GWINNETT High School Senior Courtenay Rushing can officially add published illustrator to her resume.

Rushing recently illustrated Monster Maker and Other Poems, a collection of children’s poems by D. L. Huff.

She says the poems are fun and silly, and range from anything from squeaky shoes to the things around you coming alive. “It is mainly aimed at a young audience.

It’s perfect for the younger end of elementary and upper preschool-aged children, but it can be enjoyed by any age,” she says. “The poems ‘Monster Maker,’ ‘Stinky Little Stevie,’ ‘Squeakers’ and ‘The Ghost in the Toaster’ are my favorites.”

Courtenay met the author, Derrick, through her mother. “I had heard from my mom that Derrick made some children's poems and had them for quite some time and had not been able to find an illustrator,” Courtenay says. “I sent him some of my art and some sketches after he reached out to me. I started playing around with the style that he was looking for, and then we were on and off for a year or so. Then, in 2020, when quarantine first started, I reached back out to him and the rest is history.”

All of the illustrations in Monster Maker are hand-drawn by Courtenay. “Derrick would send me his poems, and then I would read them and make a few sketches based on the first read. I try to visually illustrate what pops in my head as I am reading the poem itself,” she says.

“I would send Derrick the sketches, and he would give me the feedback that I need.”

Courtenay says she’s always loved art. “I have been drawing ever since I can remember — around 4 or 5 years old. I remember I was obsessed with drawing funny-looking aliens, dragons, and more.” Courtenay says she’s not sure what she wants to do after she graduates, but would like to pursue a degree in IT or some field of art. “I would really like to explore careers where I can marry the two, like a graphic designer, video game developer, or designer.”

Monster Markers and Other Poems is available at BarnesandNobles.com and Amazon.com.

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THE BUZZ

Suwanee Mayor Jimmy Burnette Inducted into Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame Georgia city leaders were inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame during the Georgia Municipal Association’s annual convention in August, including Suwanee Mayor Jimmy Burnette.

Burnette has served Suwanee as mayor for 10 years, and previously served as a councilmember for 16 years. Burnette learned about public service from his father, who was a 32-year Suwanee city council member. Mayor Burnette displays a clear vision for the future of Suwanee, working to incorporate public art, economic development projects, and parks that reflect the city’s character. He represents Suwanee on the Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful board, as a delegation member for the Gwinnett Chamber’s Strategic Leadership Visits, and is a regular volunteer in local schools.

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An active leader not only in his city, Burnette works tirelessly on the county and state levels and has served on multiple Georgia Municipal Association boards. He has completed 291 hours of training through the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute and earned the Certificate of Dedication, the institute’s highest certificate level.

“Jimmy Burnette is most deserving of this honor,” said Suwanee City Council Member Linnea Miller. “Our city is blessed with a mayor who is visionary, collaborative, humble, and wise!”

The Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame recognizes city officials who have made extraordinary contributions to the cities they serve and have exhibited strong support of the Georgia Municipal Association.

“Our city is blessed with a mayor who is visionary, collaborative, humble, and wise!”

- City Council Member Linnea Miller

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Gwinnett Constructing Sensory Treehouse for People with Disabilities IN JULY, the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners approved a project to build a sensory treehouse at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. The treehouse will allow visitors with disabilities to experience the sensation of being in a canopy of trees while in a controlled environment. The treehouse is designed to accommodate all ages and abilities.

“The sensory treehouse will provide people the opportunity to connect with the ecosystem and challenge their senses,” said Chairwoman Nicole Hendrickson. “It will help children without disabilities perceive the world as experienced by children with disabilities and the other way around by immersing them in nature.”

The sensory treehouse will resemble a giant American chestnut tree of Georgia’s historic forests. The structure will include a wide range of materials and textures, ranging from rough to smooth, hard to soft, warm to cool and light to dark.

To reach the sensory treehouse, users will travel on an ADA-accessible boardwalk with self-directed learning stations, or nodes, that connect visitors to nature by touch, smell or sight.

In the treehouse building, visitors will be immersed in an indoor sensory exhibit that uses video, audio and scents to allow visitors to experience 24 hours in a piedmont forest. These sensory features will provide the perception of all the elements that one would experience climbing into a tree canopy.

While users are close to the ground, the sloping landscape will create the illusion of height, so they feel as if they are soaring among the trees. The project is scheduled to begin in the fall and take about a year to construct.

Local Suwanee Resident Wins Big at National Wheelchair Basketball Association Junior Varsity Nationals Suwanee resident and North Gwinnett High School Junior Samantha Fraser competed in the National Wheelchair Basketball Association Junior Varsity Nationals Tournament. Her team, the BlazeSports Atlanta Jr. Hawks, came in second in the nation. Samantha received awards for Tournament Female MVP, Second Team All Tournament Award, and Women's All Team Tournament Award.

Samantha Fraser Samantha, aka Sam, is a talented allaround athlete, but basketball is her first love. "Sam has been in my Gwinnett Church Inside Out small group since she was a rising freshman," says Linnea Miller. "As her leader for nearly three years, I can tell you that she embodies the definition of true leadership. She is secure, confident and humble. She is thoughtful, social and hard-working. She is admired by the other girls in our group."

In partnership with the Atlanta Hawks, the BlazeSports Atlanta Jr. Hawks Wheelchair Basketball Program is one of the nation’s fastest growing and most successful youth wheelchair basketball programs in the Southeast and the nation. “Even though this season was like no other, I could not be any happier for how far my team and I have come,” Samantha says. “BlazeSports truly is my second family.”

IN JUNE,

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ARTIST SPO T LI G H T:

V IC TO RI A E L MORE -THOMAS LEATHER & VINTAGE BEAD JEWELRY

A native of Suwanee for 22 years, artist Victoria ElmoreThomas is an accomplished jewelry maker. “I started sewing on my mom’s old singer pedal sewing machine, making my clothes and projects at the age of 12,” she says. “I finally got an electric sewing machine in my 20s and have been creating ever since.”

Victoria began creating jewelry with her granddaughter in 2009 as a hobby. In 2012 she started creating leather jewelry and Native American bags. She participated in Native American festivals for several years where she attended these festivals with her late brother, an Old West leather artist, who taught her how to hand cut, sew, and bleed braid using an old 1800s technique.

Victoria says that after hearing for years that she had Cherokee ancestors, she recently discovered she is of Irish, Scott/Wales, Iberian, and Ashkenazi Jewish descent. “I have always been drawn to the Celtic and ancient relic designs,” she says. “After discovering my heritage, that DNA gene is probably what drives my love for that era and is apparent in many of my jewelry designs.”

“In my life I have worked in multiple industries which helped me to be more creative, as I have had to reinvent myself a few times, but now it is for fun and the love of art,” she says.

“Having the opportunity to work with the Suwanee Arts Center has been an enriching and rewarding experience. I hope to be able to do it for many years to come.”

Victoria ElmoreThomas

Victoria’s jewelry line is available at the Suwanee Arts Center and features Italian leather bracelets, necklaces, deerskin 1800 bleed braided wrap bracelets, and Eva’s Aprons. She also takes custom orders.

UPCOMING EVENTS AT SUWANEE ARTS CENTER ❱ SUWANEE ARTS CENTER MEMBERS ANNUAL EXHIBIT On view: September 17-November 5 Art Center Hours: Mon.-Sat., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Open House: Saturday, September 15, 1-4 p.m.

Visit the Suwanee Arts Center to vote for People's Choice!

FALL CLASSES AND WORKSHOPS: ❱ ABSTRACT FIGURES IN ACRYLICS

Sat.-Sun., Oct. 16-17 (two-day workshop), 10 a.m.-3 p.m Learn to give your figure painting a fresh colorful look with new and exciting acrylic painting techniques.

❱ CALLIGRAPHY WRITING CLASS Tuesdays in September, 6:15-7:45 p.m.

Learn to write in calligraphy using basic skills and strokes of Copperplate Calligraphy. Instruction will include making note cards, gift tags, signs, etc.

❱ CLAY WORKSHOP: SLAB PUMPKIN

Sat., Oct. 2 & 23 (two-day workshop), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Create your fall harvest pumpkin in clay, building a segmented pumpkin, leaves, and stem for a beautiful harvest look on your table.

The Suwanee Arts Center location also serves as the City's Welcome Center — come get your SWAG!

❱ PRINTMAKING MINI-SERIES CHILDREN AGES 6-12 Wednesdays in October, 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.

Children will explore mark making, color theory, layering, and creating monoprints with gelli plate printmaking.

❱ CLAY WORKSHOP: WHIMSICAL BELLS 3930 CHARLESTON MARKET STREET SUITE B6, SUWANEE 678-878-2818 suwaneeartscenter.org

Sat., Nov. 20 & Sat., Dec. 4 (two-day workshop), 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Create small whimsical bells in clay with lots of texture, beads, and hanging twine.

More classes and workshops scheduled soon! Visit Suwanee Arts Center’s website for photography, drawing, and watercolor workshops for adults.

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Kristin Scott and Karen Hendrix Owners of Planet Smoothie in Suwanee Town Center

When we think about business owners who love being part of their community, Planet Smoothie owners Kristin Scott and Karen Hendrix definitely come to mind! Since opening their shop in Suwanee Town Center in 2010, they have become familiar faces to so many people. Plus, they are two of the nicest people we have ever met! Interview and Photo by Julie Perdue

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

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WHAT INSPIRED YOU OR LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT CAREER?

Karen: We were both former teachers. I wasn’t teaching at the time and was looking to get back into the workplace, not sure if it would be teaching again or something else. We had frequented some smoothie shops and I was intrigued by that. I did some research and in 2010 I decided that this was the time to own my own business.

Planet Smoothie was at the top of the list because it’s a great brand and has great products and culture. I decided to take that leap and asked Kristin if she would like to join me. Kristin took a leave of absence from teaching for a year. We opened at the end of May in 2010, when school ended so the timing was perfect.

We own the Planet Smoothie in Suwanee Town Center Park and the one in Hamilton Mill.

HOW WAS BUSINESS IN 2020 DURING THE PANDEMIC?

Kristin: March, April and May 2020 were challenging because business was slow, but because we were considered “essential” we were able to stay open. By June, business picked up since no one was traveling, and by July more people were coming back to Town Center Park. We

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have been very careful keeping our employees and customers safe during this time. We have 13 employees in the Suwanee store and 11 employees in the Hamilton Mill store, mostly part-time. We have some great high school and college students on our team!

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN SUWANEE AND WHAT DO YOU LOVE THERE?

Kristin: Mori House is a big favorite. I love their food. Karen: Craft Burger and most of the Mexican restaurants in the area.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED OR LIVED IN SUWANEE?

Karen and Kristin: Since 2007.

WHAT HAS KEPT YOU HERE? Kristin: We love the smalltown feel of a growing community. Having taught at Suwanee Elementary, I feel like everywhere I go I see people I know. We also attend Gwinnett Church and know so many people there. Karen: We feel very connected with the community and love the Greenway. It’s easy and perfect.

There is no other place we would want to move to because we feel like Suwanee just keeps getting better and better!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUWANEE? Kristin: I love

the abundance of green space, trails and concerts. There is so much to do here outdoors. Karen: I love the parks, the walking trails and activities. Everything is well thought-out and planned and it feels safe here.

WOULD YOU RATHER SPEAK TO A CROWD OF 500 OR SING TO A CROWD OF 50? Karen: I would rather

sing to 50 people, or less. If only I could sing! Kristin: Definitely speak to a crowd of 500. I love people!

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 10 YEARS? Kristin: Hopefully doing

Kristin Scott and Karen Hendrix

HOW BIG ARE YOUR FAMILIES?

Kristin: My parents are in McDonough. My brother and his family live in Peachtree Corners. We spend lots of time with family. Karen: We have three grown children. A son in Virginia, one in Roswell, and our daughter is coming home this summer from Tokyo. My parents are nearby in Lawrenceville.

WHO IS THE MOST INTERESTING PERSON YOU’VE MET IN SUWANEE? Karen

and Kristin: It would have to be Amy Doherty. We have so much admiration for her with all that she has been through and how hard she works. She has a resilience about her that is amazing. Over the years, if we’ve had a question, all we had to do was call Amy. She is amazing!

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Karen and Kristin:

Greece is definitely on our list, and we hope we can visit there next year.

The islands just look incredible. We love to hike and travel.

WHAT IS THE FIRST MOVIE YOU REMEMBER SEEING IN A THEATER? Kristin: An American

Tail Karen: Grease many, many times.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A CROWD OF PEOPLE?

Kristin: Be kind and love others!

Karen: It’s so easy to be nice to people. We have way more in common than we have differences.

Just being able to say “I appreciate you” goes a long way.

WHAT IS SOMETHING ON YOUR BUCKET LIST?

Karen and Kristin: Traveling to more countries.

IF YOU COULD TAKE ANYONE TO LUNCH (DEAD OR ALIVE) WHO WOULD THAT BE AND WHERE WOULD YOU GO?

Kristin: My Papa! He passed away unexpectedly and I would love to have one more lunch with him to hear his stories and give him one more hug! Karen: My uncle Jimmy McGee. He was brilliant, funny, and such a great storyteller who always had several great tales and jokes to share.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC? NAME THREE BANDS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE.

Kristin: I love all music but especially country music! I would like to see Reba and Dolly Parton. Karen: I love Pink and any music from the ’70s and ’80s!

the same things as we do today. Karen: Perhaps taking more time to travel, stepping back a little bit more and having good people to help us with everything.

Maybe by then we will have grandkids.

We have the two stores now and as Area Developers we oversee 32 stores in the Atlanta area. Our goals are to grow the Planet Smoothie brand and help others be successful. There is a big reward to helping people grow as franchisees. We try to show them that it’s about more than just opening a business and that being a part of the community is so rewarding.

We often work with new franchisees who are like we were when we started this journey, with little to no experience.

Many are women who are taking a leap to start something new. We love empowering people! Karen and Kristin: We knew when we started our first business that Suwanee Town Center was where we wanted to be, and we couldn’t be happier with that choice.

WHAT IS SOMETHING INTERESTING THAT MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU? Kristin: I love to sing but I cannot except for the shower, car and in a store. I think that I sound good until I hear a recording of myself. One of my employees heard me singing in the store and said, “Kristin, I think you’re just three voice lessons away from being great!”

Karen: I’ve lived in Gwinnett County since I was 7! I am a true Gwinnettian! ■

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

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Amid decades of remark Hill remains committed to space and new ways to co The Sugar Hill Greenway creates a trail network de cyclists, joggers, and other completed, the paved path throughout our city includ Park, and Sugar Hill Elem

Summer in the Sweet City

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GET YOUR FEST ON! ummer is nearly here. The days are longer, school is out, the sun is shining, and the warm weather is inviting you to get outside and make the most out of your summer months in the sweet city! Sugar Hill may be a growing city, but we know that places to play are just as important as places to live and work.

MUSIC, GARYTHERE'S PIRKLE PARK

MOVIES, AND Gary Pirkle Park, located just off Suwanee Dam Road, MORE THIS FALL IN SUGAR HILL offers plenty of space for play and programming. Pirkle Park is home to the largest synthetic turf fields in the PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF SUGAR HILL Southeast as well as a shaded playground, two miles of paved and lighted walking trails, and the Sugar Hill Community Garden.AS THE leaves change colors

in preparation for autumn, the City of Sugar Hill adapts to the cooler THE SUGAR HILL GOLF CLUB weather with its 7th annual Sugar Rush Festival. Just down the street, The Sugar Hill Golf Club has year, for the first time ever, visitors earned This an established reputation as one of the most will get to celebrate artand for challenging, two full days on October and 17. Bring the family beautiful, public courses in16 the North Georgiato foothills.

With some of the spectacular this two-day event andmost enjoy live music, local vendors, golfing vistas, the unique course offers plenty of daily food trucks and artisan demonstrations.

In addition to DIY tee times as well as regular tournaments and a club crafts for everyoneSUGAR to bring HILL SPLASH PARK house available for special events. Kids can cool off and splash around at the Sugar home, Sugar Rush will have a Hill Splash Park in the heart of Sugar Hill. The exciting juried art show representing water feature offers free fun for all ages and is open local, regional, andseasonally even from late spring to early fall. Located international talent.directly Artistsbehind of City Hall, the Splash Park offers familyfriendly all mediums will have theirfun with dancing water fountains and lights as as plenty of local restaurants within a five-minute artwork on displaywell at Sugar walk. Grab something to go or enjoy your own treats at Hill’s Art Gallery asshaded well. picnic tables or soak up the sun on the plaza $2 Tuesdays at the surrounding the fountain.

Eagle Theatre are the perfect weekday escape.

With its art deco style featuring geometric shapes, rich colors, and gold accents, this theatre pays homage to the early days The Sugar Rush Festival takes place of Sugar Hill. You’ll have to Oct. 16-17 for a see it for yourself! Try not to celebration of art. miss the movie as you stare in awe at the architectural styling of the Eagle Theatre.

Movies are already scheduled through the end @CityofSugarHill_ @CityofSugarHill Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com I NOV / DEC 19 of the year/CityofSugarHill and genres range from family-friendly like Men in Black to actionpacked Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. Purchase your Aaron Tippin performs with Sammy tickets at EagleatSugarHill.

Kershaw and Collin Raye on October 22 at com for either viewing at The Bowl.

10:30 a.m. or 6:30 p.m.

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Bring the kiddos to trickor-treat on West Broad Street with Sugar Hill’s businesses.

Busy on Tuesdays? Luckily, downtown has something to offer nearly every day of the week. On Wednesdays, gather your friends and sit on the Promenade for an evening of free live music. Sugar Hill Live showcases the best local talent in Gwinnett County. From instrumentalists to soulful singers, you’ll have a sweet experience.

Live music in Sugar Hill is something you don’t want to miss. Artists like Trace Adkins and Joan Jett have performed at The Bowl.

Coming up October 1, get ready for nonstop country music. Sugar Hill Live on Stage presents “Roots & Boots” with Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw, and Collin Raye with opener Parmalee. On October 22, Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo will visit The Bowl for their already sold-out rock and roll show.

Even if you didn’t purchase tickets, come out to Sugar Hill to grab a bite to eat from downtown’s newest businesses, Scoops and Rivermill Bakery.

Change up your typical Thursday plans for Salsa on the Promenade and dance the night away with a waterfront view. But first, make plans to dine across the street at Cantina Loca for fresh chips and salsa.

At the end of the month, Sugar Hill gets spooky on Friday, October 29 with Movie Under the Stars: Hocus Pocus. Wear your best costume for trick-or-treating on West Broad Street and get candy from Sugar Hill’s local businesses. With 31 days in the month of October, every day is worth spending in the City of Sugar Hill. ■

 To learn more, visit CityofSugarHill.com and keep an eye on their social media for updates.

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ON THE SCENE

August Concert Saturday, Aug 14th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY ANGELA VEUGELER, TIFFANY BELLFLOWER

Shamrock 5K

Saturday, June 26th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB

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Suwanee Beer Fest Saturday, June 26th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY GARY DOWD, ANGELA VEUGELER

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Suwanee Porch Jam

Friday, June 18th OLD TOWN SUWANEE

PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE

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TRY OUR FAMILY MEALS! ORDER ONLINE FOR PICKUP OR DELIVERY.

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S E P T E M B E R

& 26th

DULUTH FALL FESTIVAL

Sat: Booths and Carnival at 9am; Parade at 10am Sun: 5K at 8am; Booths open at 9am

16

PAWfest

16

SUGAR RUSH FALL FESTIVAL

& 17th

Downtown Duluth

For more information visit DuluthFallFestival.org.

Sat. SUWANEE FARMERS Thru MARKET Sept. 8am-noon 25th Town Center Park

4

25

FIRST BELIEVE YOU CAN WALKATHON 1:30pm

Suwanee Town Center Park

More information at Suwanee.com.

11 16 thru 26th

& 26th PAINTED FERN FESTIVAL OF ART

Sat: 10am-5pm; Sun: 10am-4pm Meet talented members of the North Georgia Arts Guild and other artists and crafters at this free event!

Rabun County Civic Center

9/11 REMEMBRANCE

Visit NorthGeorgiaArtsGuild.com for more information.

6pm

Suwanee Town Center Park

GWINNETT COUNTY FAIR Hours Vary

Gwinnett County Fairgrounds, Lawrenceville For more information visit GwinnettCountyFair.com.

O C T O B E R

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TASTE OF BBQ BENEFITING PROJECT GREEN

& 19th

TOWTOPNAWRCNKENCTEENRTER PARK Saturday’s Parade begins at 9am; Booths and entertainment Sat: 10am-7pm; Sun: Noon-5pm For more information visit SuwaneeFest.com.

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For more information visit LawrencevilleGA.org.

Sat: 10am-6pm, Sun: Noon-6pm A two-day event in Sugar Hill featuring visual and performing arts, food, music, history, and family fun!

For more information visit CityofSugarHill.com.

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BIG T'DO

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DINNER AND A BOO-VIE

6pm-Midnight

The River Club

Annual gala and auction benefiting the schools of North Gwinnett. This year's theme is Halloween! Visit NGSF.givesmart.com.

6:30pm: Hotel Transylvania 8:45pm: Ghostbusters (original)

Suwanee Town Center Park

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thru 23rd

Suwanee Town Center Park

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Lawrenceville Lawn

Downtown Sugar Hill

10am

Visit Suwanee.com for more information.

10am-4pm

GWINNETT GREAT DAYS OF SERVICE 2019 8am

Lawrenceville Lawn

For more information visit LawrencevilleGA.org.

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MAC & CHEESE FEST

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DULUTH HOWL ON THE GREEN

Noon-4pm

Lawrenceville Lawn

For more information visit LawrencevilleGA.org.

6-10pm

Duluth Town Green

For more information visit Duluthga.net.

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SPOOKY SPIRITS 5K 11am

Suwanee Town Center Park

Visit SpookySpirits5K.com for more information and to register.

suwaneemagazine.com

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N O V E M B E R

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SUWANEE WINE FEST 1-4:30pm

Suwanee Town Center Park Purchase tickets at SuwaneeWineFest.com.

I N - P E R S O N T E AC H I N G • P R E - S C H O O L T H R O U G H 12 T H G R A D E

TOP-RATED EDUCATION

in a Safe, Christian Environment Sugar Hill Christian Academy features the highest quality of education in a safe, Christian environment.

Our faculty, staff, and administration are dedicated to providing your student with a learning environment that is ranked in the top percentages nationally ensuring your child is set up for success in and out of the classroom.

SHCA is a great school! Academics are amazing and teachers work very hard to ensure each student achieves their full potential and then some. It provides a safe, friendly Christian environment where all students are accepted.

- SHCA Middle School Student

CALL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR

678.745.4121 SugarHillChristian.org 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd.

Sugar Hill, GA 30518

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Suwanee Fest continues to grow and exceed expectations every year thanks in large measure to the generous community-minded businesses and organizations who sponsor our festival. We’d like to offer our sincere appreciation to the following businesses who are our awesome Suwanee Fest 2021 sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor:

Platinum Sponsors:

Gold Sponsors: Atlanta Falcons CBD American Shaman Friday Health Plans Kennon Heating & Air Level Minds CBD North Atlanta Primary Care Quantum National Bank Road Atlanta

Silver Sponsors: AKA Tree Service AlignLife of Sugar Hill Atlanta Gladiators Camp Gladiator Code Ninja Free Chapel JPAR Metro Atlanta LeafFilter North, LLC Mitsubishi Electic Trane HVAC Monkey Wrench Northside Hospital Power Home Remodeling PrePress to Printing Smile Doctors Suwanee Dental Care True Source Family Chiropractic

Friend:

Delta Community Credit Union

SuwaneeFest.com