Gwinnett Daily Post Special Section - 2011 Newcomer's Guide

Gwinnett Daily Post • Sunday, June 5, 2011 • 2011 Newcomer’s Guide

A city-by-city guide to activities, entertainment in the county

index where Everyone plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 6-7 Where Buford plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 8 where Dacula plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 10-11 where Duluth plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 12-13 where Grayson plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 14 where Lawrenceville plays . . . . . . . . . .Page 18-19 where Lilburn plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 20-21 where Norcross plays . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 22-23 where Snellville plays . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 24-25 where Sugar Hill plays . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 26-27 where Suwanee plays . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page 28-30

PAGE 2 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 3

where

Gwinnett

plays

For most of the year, Gwinnett residents spend their weeks with long commutes and busy schedules. Business meetings, grocery shopping and soccer practice fill our everyday. We know you work.

We know where you live, but where do you play?

From Buford’s Variety Theatre and Suwanee’s Town Center to Norcross’ downtown festivals and Sugar Hill’s city parks, each municipality offer its own form of entertainment.

In the Gwinnett Daily Post’s annual Newcomer’s Guide, we explore what each town offers. We’ve also covered the places everyone plays: The Arena at Gwinnett Center, CoolRay Field, Lake Lanier Islands and Stone Mountain Park.

PAGE 4 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 5

where

Everyone

While each city has its niche for entertainment and recreation, there are some spots that the entire county claims as its own. The Arena at Gwinnett Center may have a Duluth address, but for major concerts and events and Gwinnett Gladiators and Georgia Force games, the entire county calls it home. The same can be said of Coolray Field, home to the Class AAA Gwinnett Braves.

And for recreation, Lake Lanier Islands is a Gwinnett destination as is Stone Mountain Park.

• See Everyone, Page 7

PAGE 6 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

plays

•From Page 6 ARENA AT GWINNETT CENTER

• Arena at Gwinnett Center, Duluth: Whether it’s a Brad Paisley concert, a professional rodeo, the circus or a Gwinnett Gladiators game, the arena has entertainment for all ages and interests.

Dates to watch for this summer include, Katy Perry’s California Dreams Tour on Tuesday, Josh Groban on Wednesday and Keith Urban’s back-to-back dates Aug. 4-5.

COOLRAY FIELD

• Coolray Field, Lawrenceville: In addition to the G-Braves, Coolray is also hosting some musical acts this year. Willie Nelson’s Country Throwdown takes place June 12 and The Boston Pops concert featuring Kenny Loggins is Aug. 19.

The G-Braves are at home today and Monday and are back at Coolray Field for a homestand that runs June 16-23.

LAKE LANIER ISLANDS

• Lake Lanier Islands, Buford: Whether it’s playing golf at Legacy on Lanier Golf Club, spending the weekend at the Lake Lanier Islands Resort or visiting the water park, Lake Lanier Islands offers a variety of relaxing recreational activities for Gwinnettians to enjoy.

STONE MOUNTAIN PARK

• Stone Mountain Park: Located just outside of the county line, Stone Mountain is another place that Gwinnett residents call home.

With offerings like the famous Laser Show and the chance to climb or ride to the top of the mountain, Stone Mountain Park features a plethora of recreational activities.

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 7

where

Buford

CITY SIZE: Population is 12,225 according to 2010 Census.

plays

Once Gwinnett’s largest city, Buford is now one of the county’s most quaint, with a city-controlled school system featuring smaller classroom numbers and the historic Main Street area, home to the Bona Allen Mansion as well as fine dining and entertainment. In addition to that, the Tannery Row Artist Colony provides the city with a unique flavor.

WHERE BUFORD PLAYS • Bogan Park: The Buford park includes 83 acres featuring everything from sand volleyball courts to baseball diamonds to a gymnasium and a full aquatic center. The park is located at 2723 N. Bogan Road.

• 37 Main: A Rock Cafe. Located on Buford’s historic Main Street, this club features dining and live music ranging from tribute bands to former heavy metal stalwarts.

• Buford Variety Theater.: Located at 170 W. Main St., the theater is home to comedy performances featuring nationally recognized comics. For more info, go to www.bufordvarietytheater.com.

KNOWN FOR Tannery Row. Buford was once a world leader in leather tanning and production thanks to the Bona Allen family.

Tannery Row still exists and is now home to the Tannery

CITY COMMISSION MEETS: First Monday of every month at Buford City Hall LANDMARK: Bona Allen Mansion. Now operating as an event facility for weddings and parties, the mansion was built during 1912 and 1913 by Bona Allen and lived in by his son, Bona Allen Jr., after the senior Allen’s death. The mansion, located at 395 E.Main St., is on the National Register for Historic Places.

Row Artists Colony, which houses more than 17 artists and their galleries and work spaces.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW Buford was home to the first bank in Gwinnett County.

COMING SOON A city civic center is in the works and the $10 million project will provide Buford with a multi-use facility that will be able to be used for everything from birthday parties to and large banquets. Under construction next to City Hall, the civic center is part of the city’s plan to have a town center, officials say.

ANNUAL EVENTS • Historic Plein Air Festival, held in April celebrates outdoor artistry as artists depict a Buford site.

• Historic Buford Holiday Parade and Festival. Held in December to celebrate Christmas.

PAGE 8 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

RESIDENT’S TAKE “I love Buford because you have the lake and camping and the Mall of Georgia just 10 minutes away from each other. The Historic district unites you as a community and you’ve got all the fine dining. What’s not to love?” said Jennifer Stalcup.

— By Todd Cline

THE GIFTCARD WITH NOTHING TO LOSE NOW NO FEES AFTER PURCHASE FUNDS DO NOT EXPIRE

What you give is what they get. Plus, it can be used at any Simon® mall and the millions of merchants that accept American Express Cards in the U.S. Available in denominations from $20-$500, it’s just one more way Simon malls make it easier for you to shop smarter. Purchase your Simon Giftcards® today.

®

Use only at US merchants that accept American Express Cards except cruise lines and casinos. Not for use at ATMs or for recurring payments.

Not redeemable for cash. No fees after purchase. For more information, customer service, or Cardholder Agreement visit simongiftcard.com or call 1-800-331-5479. Issued by AEPCMC by license from American Express Travel Related Services Co., Inc.

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 9

CITY SIZE: About 5,000 (2010 estimate)

Dacula

where

CITY COUNCIL: Meets first Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at City Hall

plays

LANDMARK: The Elisha Winn House, located at 908 Dacula Road, is the oldest surviving building in Gwinnett County. Built in 1812, much of the planning for what became Gwinnett County took place here, and the home hosted Gwinnett’s very first courthouse as well as its first jail.

A small but inviting downtown area nestled around railroad tracks and not too far from anything, Dacula has rural roots but growth is no stranger. The city offers plenty of park land and open spaces for residents, with everything from public swimming pools to the private Hamilton Mill Country Club.

With a burgeoning restaurant scene, the highly developed hub of Hamilton Mill and a short drive to the Mall of Georgia, Dacula can also offer an escape from the typical hustle, bustle and overcrowding of suburban life.

WHERE DACULA PLAYS • Little Mulberry Park: One of Gwinnett’s largest parks, Little Mulberry boasts five miles of multi-purpose trails that wander through 890 acres of largely untouched nature, from forests to restored meadows. Open from sunup to sundown, the park also offers a fishing lake, the Karina Miller Nature Preserve and an overlook area from one of the highest elevations in Gwinnett County.

• Duncan Creek Park: Wrapped around a branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library, this park is one for more active residents. In addition to one of the county’s only outdoor skating complexes, the 110-acre park also

offers four lighted basketball courts, three volleyball courts and a multi-purpose field for football and other sports.

• Dacula Park: Just across from Dacula High School, this park has a public outdoor swimming pool and seven youth baseball and softball fields. Dacula Park also offers an activity building for classes and rentals, as well as a community room and classroom.

KNOWN FOR Located at 752 Dacula Road, Friends Sports Bar and Grill dubs itself as a “true neighborhood grill and bar,” and

HAMILTON SMILES COSMETIC & FAMILY DENTISTRY Michelle Whyte, DMD 2725 Hamilton Mill Rd., Suite 700 • Buford 770-932-8577

$

100OFF

ZOOM!

Whitening

Not valid with any other discount. Offer expires 7/31/2011

Georgia’s Finest Manufactured Home Living.

We have a simple goal... to help you fulfill your life-long dreams.

2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Homes for Sale or Lease!

Available for Immediate Move-In • Leasing Starts at $599.

Bring this ad for 1 FREE Month on Select Homes. • Zero Application Fee.*

COUNTRYSIDE

COMMUNITIES

Lake Lanier

Gwinnett

Atlanta

4802 Friendship Road • Buford, GA 30518

1125 Horizon Parkway • Buford, GA 30518

10 Sweetwater Way • Lawenceville, GA 30044

Exit #8 off I-985 • 1-888-294-2568 www.countrysidelakelanier.com

Exit #4 Off I-985 • 1-888-316-1539 www.countrysidegwinnett.com

1-888-476-1287 www.countrysideatlanta.com

*Can not be combined with any other offers • Expires 12.31.11.

PAGE 10 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

is a favorite for families, sports fans and the late-night crowd alike. The restaurant offers pool, darts and poker games on a nightly basis, along with an extensive menu of “all-American” food.

COMING SOON Discussions began in February for a proposed new downtown park in Dacula, to be located at the corner of Second Avenue and Wilson Street. Original plans for the city park included a plaza area, grass terraces, a gazebo • See Dacula, Page 11

•From Page 10 ANNUAL EVENTS and an interactive fountain.

• Memorial Day Celebration: By far Dacula’s most famous annual event, the city truly embraces Memorial Day. Each year, holiday weekend festivities include an all-day festival in historic downtown, a beauty pageant, parade and 5K race. The events even have their own website at www.daculamemorialday.com.

• Dacula Farmer’s Market: Dacula plays host to one of Gwinnett’s only indoor farmer’s markets, held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturdays throughout the year. Hosted at Rancho Alegre Farm, the market offers baked goods, handmade jellies, produce, live cooking demonstrations and more.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW When the city now known as Dacula was incorporated in 1905, postmaster John W. Freeman was asked to submit six names for the town. To get an original name, he plucked letters from Atlanta and Decatur, forming the word Dacula.

RESIDENT’S TAKE “Scoops ice cream parlor is a great place to grab a slice of homemade cake or an ice cream cone. It’s very familyfriendly.” — Tara Trotter

Our friendly & knowledgeable staff can help you create a unique, colorful, and inspirational garden

Gwinnett’s ##1 Source for Gardening!

Come see our huge selection of palms, perennials & water garden accessories.

E ENTIRE FAMILY A FUN EXPERIENCE FOR TH

Check our website for hours & directions

— By Tyler Estep

Gwinnett County Public Schools Recognized as Top Employer Voted a Top 25 Employer 2010, Atlanta Business Chronicle Voted a Top 100 National Employer 2010, Black Collegian Magazine Top 25 Best Place to Work 2010, Gwinnett Magazine Voted 2011 Top 100 Employers for the Class of 2011, Diversity Magazine

Name Best Urban School System in America, as the winner of the 2010 Broad Prize for Urban Education

www.gcpsjobs.org SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 11

where

Duluth

plays

Christened one of America’s 100 CITY SIZE: Gwinnett’s second-largest city, best cities by Reader’s Digest this behind county seat Lawrenceville, with an incorporated population of 26,600 (2010 year, Duluth blends new urbanism estimate). with old-town sensibilities, showcasing its many events on the CITY COUNCIL MEETS: 7 p.m. on second Monday and 5:30 p.m. fourth Monday of famed greenspace in the heart of each month in Duluth City Hall. town. A smattering of established restaurants and eclectic businesses LANDMARK: Southeastern Railway Museum, a 35-acre collection of Pullman cars occupy brick storefronts with wide and classic steam locomotives; Strickland windows, and merchants are House, home of Georgia’s first female applauding ribbon cuttings for four mayor; Knox House, circa-1900 home to modern day restaurant near the city’s core. new businesses this spring.

Residents say the party officially starts the last weekend in September, when the Duluth Fall Festival — called one of the top 20 events in the Southeast by the region’s tourism society — kicks up its heels. Its crowds impress, especially considering it falls in the heart of college football mania.

WHERE DULUTH PLAYS • Town Green: Whether watching flicks with the kids, sipping wine during a symphony or admiring Duluth’s ornate, 2008 City Hall, this popular greenspace • See Duluth, Page 13

PAGE 12 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

Accessible and Affordable Healthcare Women's Health • Annual Exams • Immunizations • Pregnancy Testing • Contraceptives • WIC Nutrition Program

Children’s Health

•From Page 12 offers recreation for all strata of Duluth dwellers.

• Rogers Bridge Park: Across Peachtree Industrial Boulevard lie the sprawling grounds of this greenspace. The recently unveiled Rogers Bridge Park Greenway Trail and The River Overlook offer the first phase of a planned twomile river trail.

KNOWN FOR Duluth Mayor Nancy Harris urges visitors to see Duluth’s crown jewel, the historic downtown district, and to pop in the cemetery near City Hall with its gravestones dating back to the 1800s.

COMING SOON Downtown merchants and residents anxiously await Pure Taqueria, an authentic Mexican restaurant planned next to the Red Clay Theater downtown.

A Cinco de Mayo opening was delayed due to some foundational issues with the land. City boosters hope for the debut of the restaurant, the fourth Pure outpost in metro Atlanta, later this year.

ANNUAL EVENTS

• Immunizations • Vision/Hearing Screenings • Dental Screenings/Care • Annual physical exams • WIC Nutrition Program

International Travel Program • Immunizations • Education • Travel Consultation • Country-specific Information

Infectious Disease Testing and Treatment • Preventative treatment of TB infection and disease • Treatment of Sexually Transmitted Infections • HIV testing • Refugee Health Screenings • Foodborne Complaint Investigations 770-339-4BUG

General Lab • DNA Testing • Comprehensive lab and blood testing

Immunizations

• Symphony on the Green: Evening under the stars, featuring free concerts by the Gwinnett Symphony Orchestra. Next 7:30 show is June 17.

• Flicks on the Bricks: Family film festival. Next showing, “Megamind,” July 9.

• Brown Bag Lunch Series: Music on the Town Green for picnickers at 1 p.m. on select Thursdays.

• Stars & Stripes: 15th Annual 5K run/walk. Held this year on May 28.

• Duluth Fall Festival: More than 250 arts, crafts and food booths draw crowds north of 80,000. Last weekend in September.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW Duluth elected Georgia’s first female mayor, Alice Harrell Strickland, back in 1922. She vowed to clean up the city “and rid it of demon rum.”

• Infant • Children • Adult

Vaccines Available Walk -in basis • Accept State Health Insurance, Medicaid and Medicare Some vaccines not covered by insurance.

Call for more information.

LOCATIONS:

RESIDENT’S TAKE “The historic value, the hometown feel, the Mayberry feel of it,” said Shelly Howard, fawning over the city she’s called home for 25 years. “I love the historic buildings and the feeling that city officials keep in that regard.”

— By Josh Green

Buford Health Center

2755 Sawnee Avenue Buford, GA 30518 770-614-2401

Lawrenceville Health Center

455 Grayson Highway, Ste 300 Lawrenceville, GA 30045 770-339-4283

Norcross Health Center

5030 Georgia Belle Court Norcross, GA 30093 770-638-5700

Newton Cty. Health Center 8203 Hazelbrand Rd. Covington, GA 30014 770-786-9086

Rockdale Cty. Health Center 985 Taylor Street, S.W. Conyers, GA 30012 770-785-4345

www.EastMetroHealth.com SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 13

where

Grayson One of Gwinnett’s smallest towns, Grayson experienced a boom over the last decade. Its population grew from 764 in 2000 to 2,666 in 2010 — more than three times larger.

With an expanded business district and many new subdivisions, the city still has its small-town charm that gave it the nickname “Gwinnett’s Best Kept Secret.”

plays

CITY SIZE: According to the 2010 Census, 2,666 people live in the city limits of Grayson.

CITY COUNCIL MEETS: at 7 p.m. the third Monday of each month in City Hall, 475 Grayson Parkway.

LANDMARK: “Our park is probably our focal point,” Mayor Jim Hinkle said. “It’s full on any good day with mothers and kids.

That’s the shining jewel of Grayson.”

WHERE GRAYSON PLAYS • Grayson Community Park: This park is in the heart of Grayson’s historic area, bounded by Grayson Highway, Grayson Parkway and Rosebud Road, along with the City Hall and the Arts and History Center. The swings and playground are popular with preschoolers, and a large pavilion is available for reservations with a smaller pavilion available on a first-come basis.

• Tribble Mill Park: Located outside the city limits, this 700-acre park has two walking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails surrounding two lakes. There are several pavilions and a large new playground.

• Bay Creek Park: Kids of all ages and abilities play at Bay Creek Park, a 153-acre park owned by Gwinnett County. The park features the area’s first special-needs ballfield and playground, called “Unity Place,” which are accessible to wheelchairs and walkers.

The park also has seven baseball/softball fields, a football field with a lighted track and another playground.

ANNUAL EVENTS • Grayson Day: The annual event is held the last Saturday in April each year, featuring crafts, activities and food. As many as 5,000 come to the event, which is free, although pony rides and a petting zoo are available for a small fee.

• Blues and Brews Craft Beer Festival: A new event began last year, giving residents and aficionados a chance to sample more than 100 different beers. The festival is on tap again for 2011 on Sept. 24. Participants have to be 21 to enter, and tickets are $30.

• Chili Cook-off: Sponsored by Greater Eastside Chamber of Commerce to be held Nov. 5. The contest has been around for five years and lets people sample the food of both novices and professionals.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW The Grayson Arts and History Center opened in 2001 in the Kennerly-Cox House next to City Hall. The center is available for special events such as weddings and hosts cultural events and a display of Grayson memorabilia as well as a gift shop, stocked with homemade jams and jellies, collectibles and limited edition Grayson Christmas ornaments and notecards.

RESIDENT’S TAKE “The community and how everyone is close knit,” said Tracy Ward of her favorite part about living in the community. The mother of three, who has lived in Grayson for five years, said her favorite local activity is to “go to Bruster’s and know everybody will be there on any given night.”

— By Camie Young PAGE 14 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 15

PAGE 16 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 17

PAGE 16 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 17

where

Lawrenceville

plays

Once full of empty storefronts, Lawrenceville’s downtown square has been revitalized in recent years. Full of restaurants, antique shops and boutiques, the square becomes a bustling center of activity on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Aurora Theatre is a big draw to the square, with 3,000 season subscribers visiting the area at least six times a year to see plays. Events such as the free Moonlight and Music concerts, which are held on the lawn next to the historic courthouse, also attract crowds.

WHERE LAWRENCEVILLE PLAYS • Rhodes Jordan Park: This 162-acre park at 100 E. Crogan St. houses a senior center and aquatic center. The pavilions, playgrounds and portions of the walking trail are closed through the end of the summer for renovations.

• Collins Hill Golf Club: The 18-hole course at the facility at 585 Camp Perrin Road features 6,352 yards of golf from the longest tees for a par of 71.

• Aurora Theatre: While its mainstage plays draw in more than 3,000 season ticket holders each year, the Aurora offers more than musicals and stage shows.

The theater hosts summer camps for children during

the summer and runs the Lawrenceville Ghost Tours on Fridays and Saturdays from May through September, with tours nightly in October.

KNOWN FOR The city’s downtown square draws its biggest crowds on the weekends and during festivals and concerts. To attract more visitors, several business owners on the square participate in First Friday. Many shops stay open later on the first Friday of the month and offer deals to customers.

CITY SIZE: Gwinnett’s largest city with a population of 28,546, according to 2010 U.S. Census figures CITY COUNCIL MEETS: First Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at City Hall.

LANDMARK: Gwinnett Historic Courthouse. Built in 1885, the courthouse’s features include original turret and clock tower, chandelier lighting, 24-foot ceilings, woodcarved moldings, wainscoting, Palladian windows, faux fireplaces and an outdoor gazebo. Located at 185 Crogan St., the courthouse is available for private rentals and is also home to the Gwinnett Historical Society, the Gwinnett Veterans Council Memorial Museum, the George Williams collection of antique furniture, books and paintings, and revolving art exhibits.

• See Lawrenceville, Page 19

Your Family’s New Home for Affordable Healthcare.

5030 Georgia Belle Court, Norcross, GA 30093 Monday, Thursday, Friday: 8am-5pm Tuesday, Wednesday: 8am-6:30pm Appointments and Walk-Ins Welcome

770-806-2928 www.FourCornersPrimaryCare.com PAGE 18 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

•From Page 18 COMING SOON The Lawrenceville Livability Community Initiative Project will make the city’s downtown area more pedestrian friendly. The project will include the installation of a pedestrian crosswalk near the city’s parking garage.

ANNUAL EVENTS • Moonlight and Music concerts: On the fourth Friday of each month from May to September, free concerts are played on the Lawrenceville square.

• Prelude to the 4th: This musical event features a show from the Aurora Theatre, followed by fireworks.

• Rock N’ Rib Fest: This annual festival allows vendors to compete for awards and celebrates the city’s relationship with Georgia Gwinnett College.

• Lighting of the Tree: Santa Claus comes to town on Thanksgiving for the annual lighting of the Christmas tree on the Lawrenceville square.

• Lawrenceville Rings: The city’s New Year’s Eve celebration features ringing bells and a fireworks display at midnight.

RESIDENT’S TAKE

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW Lawrenceville’s Visitor Information Center, housed in the historic Mayor Jule Oakes building next to the Post Office on Crogan Street, was recently designated a regional visitor information center. In addition to handing out information about the city, visitors can stop by the VIC for information about regional and statewide attractions

“I think Lawrenceville still retains a lot of its small-town character,” said Mary Long, a lifelong resident who can remember when the city only had one stoplight.

“The downtown part looks like it always did.”

— By Heather Darenberg

JOIN US FOR OUR UPCOMING EVENTS! June - August

October 8

Lilburn Farmers’ Market Every Friday

Lilburn Daze

June 24

October 15

Lilburn Idol I

Community Garage Sale

July 8

November 6

Lilburn Idol II

Veteran’s Day Celebration

August 2

December 2

National Night Out

Christmas Tree Lighting

August 5

December 3

Lilburn Idol Finale

Christmas Parade

September 17

December 10

Community Garage Sale

Jingle Bell Run

Keep an eye on our website, cityoflilburn.com, for events and news!

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 19

where

Lilburn

plays

Located in the western part of Gwinnett County, Lilburn is full of old-town charm. The city’s downtown area, known as Old Town, features restaurants and antique shops that line Main Street.

Nearby Lilburn City Park, located behind the city’s municipal complex and next to the railroad tracks that run through the town, is the city’s main gathering place.

WHERE LILBURN PLAYS • Lilburn City Park: Located behind the Calvin Fitchett Municipal Complex at the corner of Main Street and Railroad Avenue, the 10-acre park features a walking/jogging path, children’s playground, tennis courts, rental pavilion, bandstand and an open field area. Park hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

• Camp Creek Greenway Trail: This meandering path increases the city’s recreational space by creating areas conducive to exercise and recreation. The trail includes boardwalks, bridges, rest areas, neighborhood trail access and a passive park and trail loop area.

KNOWN FOR “Lilburn Idol is kind of our summer tradition now,” Mayor Diana Preston said. “The first round is June 24, and

the finale is in August. .... It gives emerging talent a chance to perform. We feel pretty good that we’re providing an opportunity for talent to showcase itself.”

COMING SOON

CITY SIZE: 11,596, according to 2010 U.S. Census figures

City officials are currently planning for a new city hall and library facility. Preston said construction is expected to begin in 2013, and the new facility should be completed by 2014.

ANNUAL EVENTS • Lilburn Idol: Lilburn’s singing competition began in 2004, the third year of the hit TV show, “American Idol.”

People pack the City Park to listen to performances and throw quarters in a bucket to vote for their favorite contestants.

PAGE 20 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

• See Lilburn, Page 21

CITY COUNCIL MEETS: Second Monday of each month at 7:30 p.m. at the Calvin Fitchett Municipal Complex, 76 Main St. LANDMARK: BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir. This Hindu place of worship located at 460 Rockbridge Road, right off of U.S. Highway 29, was constructed with Turkish limestone, Italian marble and Indian pink sandstone.

More than 34,000 individual pieces were carved by hand in India, shipped to the United States and assembled in Lilburn like a giant 3-D puzzle.

•From Page 20 • Farmers Market: Now in its third year, the Farmer’s Market is open from 4 to 8 p.m. every Friday in June, July and August. The market has moved to the Greenway Trail parking lot, across the street from City Hall, to allow more vendors to participate.

• Music on Main: This annual event features live music, food and fun for the whole family. It takes place in City Park.

• Lilburn Daze: The city’s biggest festival of the year packs City Park with more than 200 booths for arts and crafts, food concessions, a health fair, children’s entertainment area and exhibits about community organizations. It takes place on the second Saturday in October.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW The city recently celebrated the centennial anniversary of its incorporation. As part of the festivities, the city created a time capsule that included interviews with residents of the town.

RESIDENT’S TAKE “We moved to Lilburn in 1990 and lived in our first house for 13 years,” Gail Zarnik said. “When we decided to move, we wanted to stay in Lilburn for the sense of community that we found here. In all the hustle and bustle of Atlanta, and while others towns are going so commercial, Lilburn is a wonderful place for family and friends, with good schools and great people.”

— By Heather Darenberg

5 FREE CONCERTS

MAY TO SEPTEMBER

MAY 27 JUN 24 JUL 22

RACK OF SPAM - R&B, BLUE-EYED SOUL MUSIC SHAWN MULLINS - NATIONAL SINGER/SONGWRITER ERIC CULBERSON BLUES BAND - BLUES/ROCK

AUG 26 SEP 23

NORTH GEORGIA BLUE GRASS BAND - BLUEGRASS ABBEY ROAD LIVE! - BEATLES TRIBUTE

For special table rentals call: 678.226.2639 reserved table seating 6:30 pm • concert 8pm - 10pm lawn chairs and blankets welcome • no alcohol allowed!

www.visitlawrenceville.com

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 21

where

Norcross

We are OPEN year ‘round!

plays

Historic Downtown Norcross has CITY SIZE: About 11,000 residents, on been an energetic commercial corripar with its sister city to the north, Buford. dor for more than a century, playing CITY COUNCIL MEETS: In City Hall (65 host these days to globe-spanning Lawrenceville St.) at 6:30 p.m., first and third restaurants in former livery staples, Mondays each month. churches and mercantile stores. DinLANDMARKS: Norcross Station Cafe, a ers can hop between Britain, Cuba , restaurant awash in warm woods and good Italy and Mexico in a throwback setfood in a circa 1909 depot. Historic Fire Stating periodically blazed through by tion No. 1, Gwinnett’s inaugural firehouse for a department that now claims 30 stations.

Norfolk Southern freight trains. For a Cultural Arts and Community Center, offering Mayberry touch, there’s an actual everything from yoga to summer camps on barber’s pole, too.

College Street.

But longtime residents will say Norcross’ true charm resides in the treelined, copacetic streets, where tidy bungalows mingle with craftsmans and Victorians on manicured lawns. Strollers — both the four-wheel and upright variety — abound.

WHERE NORCROSS PLAYS

• Thrasher Park. Located just over the tracks from downtown Norcross, this greenspace is jam-packed with playground equipment and shade-casting trees. A popular stop for full-time parents.

• See Norcross, Page 23

PAGE 22 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

Mon - Fri 10am - 5pm Sat - Sun 10am - 6pm (Tickets available til one hour before closing time!)

Admission:

12 and up $8 Ages 2 - 11 $7

(Group rates available with reservations)

Stroll along a mile-long trail on 24 wooded acres and encounter over six hundred highly sociable birds and animals indigenous to the state of Georgia. White-tailed deer, bunnies, buffalo, sheep, kid goats, black bears and a bevy of new-born animals are waiting to be fed, admired and petted on a "nose-to-nose" basis.

We specialize in "people-friendly" wildlife!

4525 Highway 78 • Lilburn, GA 30047 www.yellowrivergameranch.com Email: gameranch@mindspring.com

Annual Events: Check Out What’s Going On!

SNELLVILLE FARMERS MARKET

LIVE ON THE LAWN

Now - Saturday, October 29

Now - September, 3rd Fridays each Month

POPCORN IN THE PARK

STAR SPANGLED SNELLVILLE

Saturday, June 11 & Thursday, June 16

Sunday, July 3

RUN THE VILLE - HALF MARATHON

SNELLVILLE FALL FESTIVAL

Saturday, June 18

Saturday, October 22

GRILLIN’ ON THE GREEN

CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

Saturday, June 18

Saturday, November 26

FOR MORE DETAILS VISIT WWW.SNELLVILLEPRIDE.COM

•From Page 22 • Lillian Webb Park. Named for the city’s mayor emeritus and Gwinnett government matriarch, the new five-acre park incorporates some 72,000 bricks and 650 tons of stone veneer in its imposing, beautiful design. A system of incorporated fountains and a sweeping view enhance the park’s appeal.

• Rossie Brundage Park. A true recreational haven with a baseball diamond (replete with a T-ball league) and playground.

KNOWN FOR “One of the things that’s really unique about Norcross is we have so many events,” said Mayor Bucky Johnson. “We close the street down five times a year and basically turn the whole town into a celebration.”

COMING SOON Expect a total revamp of the thoroughfare, curiously nicknamed “Skin Alley,” behind Norcross’ main section of storefronts. Construction to include landscaping, new sidewalks and buried utilities will commence this summer, with the goal of bridging downtown to Lillian Webb Park, the mayor said.

“We’re trying to face the town kind of both ways,” Johnson said. “We hope to have it finished by Art Fest, the first weekend in October.”

ANNUAL EVENTS • Bluesberry Festival. Blue abounds with this downtown Norcross bash that marries blues music and the flavors of locally grown blueberries. Leaders promote the festivities as a means to enjoy having the blues. Expect local farmers selling fresh blueberries to munch while someone coaxes crazy sorrow from a guitar. July 9.

• July 3 Independence Day Celebration. Some 60,000 fireworks enthusiasts flock downtown for a fiesta that begins long before sundown.

• “SPARKLE!” A month-long celebration of Christmas “magic.”

• Whistle Stop Farmers Market. Every Tuesday, May through October, from 4 to 8 p.m. in Thrasher Park.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW In 1870, Atlanta entrepreneur J.J. Thrasher named the new town for his good friend and fellow entrepreneur, Jonathan Norcross, the fourth mayor of Atlanta.

RESIDENT’S TAKE “I think (the city) has a kind of European feel about it.

It’s small. You can walk everywhere,” said Yvonne Taylor, who hails from England. “The cafes are nice, too.”

— By Josh Green

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 23

where

Snellville

plays

Snellville’s days as a commerce hub began in the late 1800s when friends James Sawyer and Thomas Snell opened a store at what later became the intersection of U.S. Highway 78 and Ga. Highway 124.

Originally known as New London, the town has grown into southern Gwinnett’s shopping mecca.

WHERE SNELLVILLE PLAYS • T.W. Briscoe Park: Surrounding the 7-acre Pate Lake is Snellville’s Briscoe Park. The 87 acres include eight hard-court tennis courts, eight soccer fields, sand volleyball, outdoor basketball courts, open air pavilions and playgrounds. The park also features a swimming pool.

• South Gwinnett Park: The 23-acre park features Gwinnett’s only indoor roller hockey facility. It also has baseball/softball fields, a football field, playground and grill.

• Lenora Park: Outside the city limits at Lenora Park is one of Gwinnett’s few disc golf courses, the 178-acre park also features a football field and several baseball/softball fields, a dog park, gym, playground and outdoor leisure pool.

• Yellow River Park: South of Snellville on Juhan Road in the Stone Mountain area, this 566-acre passive park is a popular mountain biking spot. The 12-mile soft surface trail can also be used for hiking and horse-back riding.

KNOWN FOR Mayor Jerry Oberholtzer said the city “Where Everybody is Somebody” is most known for shopping and its strong churches.

COMING SOON City officials recently unveiled a vision for Towne Center @ Snellville, which includes an arts and education district, a green lawn and a theater.

ANNUAL EVENTS • Snellville Days: The first weekend in May brings thousands of people to Briscoe Park for the annual Snellville Days celebration. The event starts with a parade through Main Street, followed by crafts, food and vendors as well as concerts.

PAGE 24 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

• See Snellville, Page 25

•From Page 24 • Farmers Market: This new tradition is held every Saturday morning from mid-May through October on the Town Green. This year the event includes a once-a-month craft and antique village.

• Fourth of July: A fireworks event has been held for years by local churches, but in 2011, the Snellville Tourism and Trade Association is a partner.

• Snellville Fall Festival: The event began in 2010, and is slated to be an annual occurrence on the third Saturday of every October • Lighting of the Christmas Tree: Residents carol and roast marshmallows at the annual event in December.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW

state. The Marigold Road facility accepts recycling, yard waste, junk and even has drop-offs for Goodwill. Residents can also get free mulch and the staff sells firewood.

RESIDENT’S TAKE

CITY SIZE: With 18,242 residents, the southern Gwinnett city of Snellville is Gwinnett’s fourth-largest city.

CITY COUNCIL MEETS: every second and fourth Monday of the month. Work sessions begin at 6:30 p.m. with council sessions starting at 7:30 p.m.

“It’s close to everything,” Bill Baughman, a city resident since 1967 said of living in Snellville.

“I like that fact that you don’t have to go very far to go to the dentist or the doctor ...” He especially enjoys Briscoe Park.

“That’s my favorite. I used to do my walking out there.”

LANDMARK: “It has to be along the (Ga. Highway) 124 corridor north of the city,” Oberholtzer said of the shopping and restaurant district that serves as a local hot spot. “You see a lot of people at Panera Bread, Starbucks and Atlanta Bread Company.”

0

— By Camie Young

Snellville has one of the best recycling facilities in the

BUSINESS & SERVICE DIRECTORY For All Your PAINTING & PRESSURE WASHING NEEDS

• Paint & Repaint • Interior & Exterior • General Carpentry Available

PARKS LAWNCARE

Family Owned & Operated

DRIVER

LICENSED AND INSURED

NO MONEY DOWN! Free Estimates!

CDL Tuition Paid/ WIA Approved

770.875.0627

Transportation companies are hiring CDL drivers.

McPHERSON

• Mowing • Edging • Trimming • Blowing off Walkways

PAINTING

You may be eligible for federal grants that will pay your full tuition.

$40 EVERY YARD

Call 770-614-6022 or 1-877-GET-A-CDL (toll free) now to see if you are eligible for PAID TUITION or visit us online at www.dtruckschool.com

Reasonable Rates Serving Gwinnett Co.

Call Justin 770-364-6317

COUNTRY BOY TREE REMOVAL

BUCKET Expert Take Downs TRUCK 18 Yrs Exp • Insured Free Estimates • Stump Grinding

Summer Gutter Cleaning Special $69-1 story • $89-2 story*(up to 3000 sq ft)

SUMMER SEASONED OAK 1/2 Cord-$90 • 1 Cord-$180 • Delivered & Dumped

3 Month Clog Free Warranty • Free Roof Inspection

Shane Gravitt 678-863-0655

770-932-1751 • Cell: 770-313-5751

GCS CONTRACTING

• Basement Finishing • Kitchen Remodeling • Bath Remodeling

SUMMER SPECIAL!

• Additions • Decks • Fencing • Painting • General Repairs

No Job Too BIG or Too SMALL website www.GCSContractingOnline.com

770-771-2810

COOL AS A SUMMER BREEZE Heating & Air Conditioning Service, Inc. Reasonable Rates • Fast Honest • Dependable We Service all Brands

CLASSY-FINDS CONSIGNMENT Lots of New & Gently used furniture, books, household items, tools, hardware, as well as ...

Antiques & Collectibles GREAT SELECTIONS AND PRICES Open Tues-Fri 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-5pm 50 Old Peachtree Rd, NE (Exit 111 Behind Comfort Inn) 770-904-7130

www.classy-finds.com

Call Today for Your

$35 Service Special!

678-377-2005 www.summerbreezehvac.com breeze4081@bellsouth.net

Can’t Find Time For Those Odd Jobs At Home?

Let The Professionals In Our Business & Service Directory Do The Job For You!

Georgia Peach Landscaping & Holland Handyman have merged NOW WE DO IT ALL!

FROM OUTSIDE TO INSIDE

MOW • WEED • TRIM • EDGE • BLOW Weekly & Biweekly • Free Estimates & Fair Rates

US Veterans • 678-699-3564

BUTLER HEATING & AIR CONDITIONING Serving Gwinnett For 40+ Years

GA Lic. # CN001233

10% OFF

Call Us For The Best Rates & Excellent Service Put My Experience To Work For You!

Call Raymond Butler 770-963-5141 SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 25

where

Sugar Hill

plays

Nestled in the northern part of Gwinnett near Lake Lanier, Sugar Hill is a city that doesn’t lack for outdoor recreation. In fact, it bills itself as the “Recreation City.” In addition to being near the lake and the Chattahoochee River — where canoe and tube rentals are offered — the city is home to two public parks and a daily fee golf course.

WHERE SUGAR HILL PLAYS • Gary Pirkle Park. The 67-acre park has five multipurpose fields, three of which are synthetic turf fields.

The park is home to Georgia Force practices as well as a multitude of youth leagues. It also features 1.7 miles of paved, lighted walking trails and boasts a community garden.

• E.E. Robinson Park: A 65-acre park, it features 12 little league fields as well a beach volleyball and tennis courts, a jogging trail and an amphitheater.

• Sugar Hill Golf Club. This 18-hole course features plenty of elevation changes and provides a challenge at a fair price. Cost is $39 for a round with a cart during the week and $53 on weekends. There are price cuts for city residents.

KNOWN FOR Boasting the largest synthetic turf fields in the Southeast — 255,000 square feet in all — at Gary Pirkle Park. The turf fields are popular for both soccer and lacrosse leagues, and host everything from Georgia Force practices to a national high school 7-on-7 summer tournament. The fields are also lighted, ensuring they are used all day long.

COMING SOON Sugar Hill has plans for a new City Hall which officials hope will help give the city a central identity. To that end, West Broad Street will be re-aligned, creating

PAGE 26 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

• See Sugar Hill, Page 27

CITY SIZE: Gwinnett’s third-largest city with a population of 18,522.

CITY COUNCIL MEETS: Second Monday of the month at 7:30 p.m. at City Hall Annex Building.

LANDMARK: Sugar Hill Golf Club. Eighteenhole, public course located at 6094 Suwanee Dam Road.

•From Page 26 on-street parking, and new sidewalks will be put in with brick accents and period street lamps to complete the experience. A roundabout at Whitehead Road is also expected to calm traffic as the city looks for City Hall to anchor future retail development.

ANNUAL EVENTS • Sparks in the Park: Annual Fourth of July celebration. Celebrated this year on July 3, it gives local residents a chance to celebrate the holiday in their own area.

• Reels at Robinson: Outdoor movie series held at E.E. Robinson Park throughout the summer. Next movie: “How to Train Your Dragon,” June 17 • Sugar Hill Fall Festival: Held this year on Oct. 29, the local tradition features food, crafts and games.

• Sugar Hill Easter Egg Hunt: Locals get their chance to celebrate Easter with an egg hunt of their own.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW Sugar Hill is home to the largest Kroger store in the Southeast.

RESIDENT’S TAKE “We love the park, especially the new park. Having two parks in one city is great. There’s just so many options to be outside with your kids. And having new schools that aren’t overcrowded in this area is great.’

— Selena Noble — By Todd Cline

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 27

where

Suwanee

plays

Streetlight banners welcoming drivers into the Suwanee greenway broadcast one of the city’s mottos: “where excellence is an attitude.” The city, named one of America’s top 10 places to live by Fortune Magazine in 2007, offers plenty for residents and visitors alike.

WHERE SUWANEE PLAYS • Town Center Park: Dubbed Suwanee’s “front yard,” this 10-acre park on the corner of Buford Highway and Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road is the city’s primary gathering space for special events. With an amphitheater that seats 1,000, more than a mile of walking paths and 200 trees, the park hosts concerts and festivals in the shadow of nearby City Hall, shopping, restaurants and townhomes.

• Suwanee Creek Park and Greenway: Located near the city’s southern limit, Suwanee Creek Park is an 85acre park ideal for family picnics and reunions. The park, which has been left primarily in its natural condition, also serves as the trailhead for the Suwanee Creek Greenway.

The greenway contains four miles worth of hard-surface, multipurpose trails that connects 400 acres of parkland.

• PlayTown Suwanee: Aptly known as the “play-

ground mommy and daddy built,” PlayTown Suwanee is a mega-playground that resides in historic old town. Over just five days in June 2004, 1,200 volunteers came together to build the playplace for Suwanee’s children.

KNOWN FOR Aside from the ever-bustling Town Center, Cinco Mexican Cantina and built-in night spot After Five have become the “chic” hangouts in Suwanee. On any given night, one can enter the restaurant at 1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. and simultaneously see families enjoying a meal out and folks in nightclub attire enjoying an evening out.

COMING SOON On July 23, Suwanee Magazine will host the city’s first-ever American Craft Beer Fest at Town Center Park.

PAGE 28 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

CITY SIZE: As of the 2010 census, Suwanee had a population of just more than 15,000 CITY COUNCIL MEETS: Third Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at City Hall LANDMARK: With an uncanny resemblance to the “Hall of Justice” — the meeting place of heroes like Superman and Wonder Woman in the classic cartoon “Superfriends” — Suwanee’s City Hall is unmistakable as it rests among shops and greenspace at the city’s Town Center Park.

From 1 to 5 p.m., of-age festival-goers will be able to sample more than 120 different beers. Tickets are $35 in • See Suwanee, Page 29

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 29

•From Page 28 advance or $40 at the door.

For more information, visit www.suwaneebeerfest.com.

• Suwanee Day: The outdoor celebration of Suwanee and its residents is held each September at Town Center Park.

• Memorial Weekend Concert: Each year at Town Center Park, Suwanee hosts a Memorial Day weekend concert sponsored by the Gwinnett Daily Post, typically boasting a performance from a military band.

• Art on a Limb: For the last seven years, Suwanee has hosted its Art on a Limb program, a month-long initiative placing original pieces of artwork along the Suwanee Creek Greenway and other parks each day throughout the month of May. • Georgia SPCA Annual Run: Each year as spring approaches, the city hosts the 5K to benefit the Georgia Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is based in Suwanee.

SOMETHING YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW As recently as 1970, the city of Suwanee, historically a small, agriculturally based community, had a population of just 615 residents.

RESIDENT’S TAKE “I think this is really it. When we have to go to the bank we always stop by. It’s probably the best fountain in the area.” — Christina Crawford said about the “Big Splash” interactive fountain at Town Center Park — By Tyler Estep

Saturday, July 23, 2011 10am-5pm at Discover Mills Look for details in the HealthSource Special Section published on Sunday, July 17th.

Also available at Simon Guest Services at Discover Mills starting Friday, July 15th.

ATTENTION EXHIBITORS! Wellness Expo’s will also be held at Discover Mills on these dates: Saturday, July 23, 2011 Saturday, October 15, 2011 March 2012 - TBD Call today to participate!

770.963.9205 ext. 1210

gwinnettdailypost.com

PAGE 30 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011

SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • PAGE 31

PAGE 32 • WWW.GWINNETTDAILYPOST.COM • SUNDAY, JUNE 5, 2011