How to Fête SouthwestinGwinnett GREAT SPACES & CATERERS FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT ALSO INSIDE: ■ New School Year SeamlesslyTransitions P48 ■ The UndergoesForum Brand Refresh P28 Duluth Fall Festival Movie Magic in Gwinnett ■ Curiosity Lab/Coding Boot Camp PRSRT PostageSTDECRWSSUS PAID Monroe,GA Permit#15 POSTALCUSTOMER
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5 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com southwestgwinnett THE EDITORIAL & CREATIVE TEAM CONTRIBUTORSADVERTISING CURATING STORIES AND NEWS FOR PEACHTREE CORNERS, DULUTH, BERKELEY LAKE & NORCROSS ISSUE THREE | SEMPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 Rico Figliolini Publisher, Editorial & Creative Director and Founder Susan Lesesne Account Executive Kathy Dean Editorial Consultant and Copy Editor Julie Davis Account Executive Isadora Pennington Writer/ Photographer
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7 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com 8 Events Calendar of events 2022OCTOBERSEPTEMBER/ 18 How to Fête in Southwest Gwinnett Great Spaces and Caterers for Your Next Event 36 Movie Magic in Gwinnett 40 Curiosity Lab Resumes Georgia Tech Coding Boot Camp 42 Art Splash Returns to Historic Norcross 44 Don’t Call It an Invasion 46 Nonprofit Celebrates One Year of Connections 48 New School Year Transitions Seamlessly About the Cover Justin Jang is head chef of Aomi Japanese Restaurant Photography by George Hunter Contents Duluth Fall Festival31 The Forum Undergoes Brand Refresh28
Events, concerts and theatre
ChrisFridaySeptemberSeptember16NightLive—Cauley
The5:30-7:30Forum on Peachtree Parkway 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners Admission: free About the musician: Chris Cauley is a Southern soul singer who was born and bred in the South, and still calls it his home. For more, go to thefo rumonpeachtree.com.
8-11 CMXa.m.CineBistro parking lot 5180 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners
Middle School parking lot 321 Price Place, Norcross Admission: free The City of Norcross celebrates National His panic Heritage Month and invites the commu nity to immerse in music, foods and traditions from a variety of Hispanic countries around the world. Visit the norcrossga.net calendar for the latest info.
Sports on the Screen — Georgia Tech vs. Mississippi 3:30 Peachtreep.m. Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Admission: free Enjoy the big game on the big screen at Town Green. Find details at the peachtreecornersga. gov calendar.
The Elevator Family
Explore Japanese culture with performances, vendors and foods. Japanese Businesses in Georgia (JBig) will showcase Japanese com panies in the area. There’s a lot more info at japanfest.org.
September 22 UnlockedATL 5-7 Atlantap.m.Tech Park 107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners
Hispanic Heritage Month Celebration 2-6 Summerourp.m.
Wesleyan School Powell Theatre 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners
Admission: free About the band: The Retreat delivers organically grown party music, a perfect way to start the weekend. Check out theforumonpeachtree.com for details.
September 24 Electrify PTC — EV Car Show
Admission: free Guests will experience electric mobility first hand and learn about Peachtree Corners’ continued commitment to the sustainability of the #SiliconOrchard through innovative and smart technologies. Many electrified vehicles will be on display. Visitors are encouraged to stop by local vendors to win prizes, eat great food and enjoy delicious drinks. The calendar at peachtreecornersga.gov has details.
September 16 Family Lip-Sync Battle 6:30-8:30 p.m. Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross Admission: free for competitors; fee is $6. Please submit music by September 7. The whole family, all ages, is invited to battle it out for the best “band.” Light refreshments are available, and prizes will be awarded to winners. Call 678-277-0860 or visit GwinnettParks.com to learn more
Students from Wesleyan Middle School present the story of the quirky Wilson family, who visit a nice hotel on vacation and decide to take up residence in the elevator. As they move up and down, the Wilsons try to help everyone who steps into they’re ‘mobile home.’ Go to wesley anschool.org/arts/drama for additional info, including ticket cost and show times.
September 17 Jazz in the Alley — Funkyard X 7:30-9:30 p.m. Betty Maudlin Park, 1-63 Lawrenceville St., Norcross Admission: free About the artist/band: Funkyard X is known for its highly explosive sound. Visit the calendar at norcrossga.net for more information.
JapanFest Atlanta Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gas South Convention Center 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth Admission: $15 until Sept 16; on the day of the event, $18. Two-day tickets (available before the day of the event only) are $20, and parking is $5.
September 17
Admission: free ATL Unlocked brings together creators, inno vators, founders and entrepreneurs so they can thrive. Learn more about what Atlanta Tech Park offers and why Peachtree Corners is the #1 Smart City in the country. Go to https://bit. ly/3Aw7EcN-ATL
September 17
The5:30-7:30Forum on Peachtree Parkway 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners
Electrify PTC EV Car Show
September 17 & 18
September 23 Friday Night Live — The Retreat Trio
September 22-24
9 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
Wildcat Theatre 3737 Brock Rd., Duluth A dock extending out onto a small lake is the backdrop for a one-act competition piece that covers five different stories. In a poetic epilogue, they all discover the true meaning of Our Place, both comedic and tragic. There’s more info, including ticket prices, at duluththeatre.weebly. com.
The Bourbon Brothers
September 30 Hispanic CelebrationHeritage 5:30-7:30 p.m. One Stop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross Admission: $8 for residents, $16 for Celebratenon-residentsHispanic Heritage Month with cultural music, games, crafts, swag bags, perfor mance and light refreshments. Additional info available by calling 678-225-5400 or visiting GwinnettParks.com.
September Neighborhood29 Cooperative Ministries Gala Celebration 2022 6-9 Atlantap.m.Tech Park 107 Technology Parkway, Peachtree Corners
Admission: free Experience Hispanic history and culture and while enjoying music and concessions. To find out more, call 678-277-0900 or click on Gwin nettParks.com.
Saturday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Race starts Sunday, 8 a.m. Entertainment continues throughout the day.
12-4 Shortyp.m.Howell Park 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth 678-277-0900, GwinnettParks.com
TheAdmission:gwinnettpl.orgfreeGwinnettCounty
Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners
Public Library is holding three Citizenship Clinics in partnership with Asian Americans Advancing Justice — Atlanta (AAAJ — Atlanta). These clinics provide free assistance with the preparedness of the natu ralization form for citizenship. Applicants who complete the pre-registration form and qualify will meet with an AAAJ — Atlanta legal repre sentative for a naturalization application review and legal assistance. Pre-register at gwinnettpl. libnet.info/event/6957311. For questions and assistance, contact AAAJ at 404-890-5655.
September 24 Hispanic Heritage Fiesta
Admission: free About the band: The Bourbon Brothers channel the great Frank Sinatra as they sip bourbon and play classics from The Great American Song book. Visit theforumonpeachtree.com for more info, including the October schedule.
Admission: ticket donations start at $100/indi NCMvidualholds its annual fundraising event, hosted by Dean Crownover. Proceeds support 50-70 families every day in the Norcross, Peachtree Corners, Doraville and Tucker area. Register, donate and get more info at ourncm.org/cele bration.
September 24 PTC Summer Concert Series — Vertical Horizon with All the Locals 7 Peachtreep.m.
ArtOctoberOctober1SplashFestival 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Lillian Webb Park / Downtown Norcross 5 College St., Norcross Admission: free Talented artists display their works in colorful booths. Visitors will find treasures in a variety of media, including paint, jewelry, photography, clay, fiber and so much more. There’ll also be music, food and fun. Go to norcrossga.net and check the calendar for details.
on Peachtree Parkway 5185 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners
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Town Green, 3167 Main Street, Duluth and surrounding streets
Admission: free The festival features more than 20 musical and dance acts at multiple locations. The Festival Center Stage hosts bands and dance acts, while the Parsons Alley stage hosts smaller bands and acoustic music in an intimate setting. The festi val schedule includes a parade, race and plenty of food, beverages and vendors. Watch for street performers, puppeteers and a friendly scare crow, the festival mascot. Get the latest details at duluthfallfestival.org.
Admission: free About the bands: Vertical Horizon’s song “Ev erything You Want” sold over two million copies and became the most played single of 2000. Today’s Vertical Horizon has evolved and added to their sonic tapestry. The Atlanta-based band All the Locals kicks off the evening at 7 p.m. Go to the peachtreecornersga.gov calendar for more info.
September 30 American Citizenship Clinics at Gwinnett County Public Library 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Duluth Branch, 3180 Main St., Duluth
September 30 Friday Night Live — The BrothersBourbon
September 24-25 Duluth Fall Festival
The5:30-7:30Forum
September 30-October 1
Our Place 6 Duluthp.m.
Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com vv SIGN UP TODAY! WINTER: BASKETBALL WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/LEAGUES Clinics are open to the public for K-4th grade students. DEC. 3 - FEB. 4
Legend of Sleepy Hollow
Night’s Dream
Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Admission: free About the film: In this computer-generated superhero comedy, Batman needs to overcome his fear of losing his friends to stop the Joker’s evil plans. Visit the peachtreecornersga.gov calendar to learn more.
October 8 Night Music Anniversary Celebration — Marcy Playground 7 Peachtreep.m. Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Admission: free About the band: 90s alternative rockers Mar cy Playground are most known for their 1997 platinum album that included the hit “Sex and Candy,” but they also have noted songs on soundtracks for movies such as Cruel Inten tions and Antitrust. Additional info is at the peachtreecornersga.gov calendar.
October Enchanted15 Theatre / Haunted Theatre 4-6 p.m. and 6:30-9 p.m. Duluth Wildcat Theatre 3737 Brock Rd., Duluth Little heroes, goblins, witches, animals and princesses can tour the Enchanted Theatre from 4-6 p.m. But beware! After 6:30, the enchantment fades — and the theatre becomes haunted. Find details, including ticket prices, at duluththeatre.weebly.com.
October 15 Sports on the Screen — UGA vs. Vanderbilt All day Peachtree Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners
Wesleyan School Powell Theatre 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners
October Oktoberfest1 3-7 Historicp.m. Downtown Square, Lawrenceville Admission: free The City of Lawrenceville, in partnership with Local Republic and McCray’s Tavern, celebrates a very authentic Oktoberfest experience com plete with live music, cold brew, authentic food, kid-friendly activities and live entertainment. Click on downtownlawrencevillega.comthe calendar for the latest info
Admission: free Load up a cooler and head to Town Green with friends. For more, visit the peachtreecornersga. gov calendar.
October Midsummer12
One Act Festival: Alice in Wonderland
October 1 Flicks on the Green — Lego Batman 7 Peachtreep.m.
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October 15 Harvest Homecoming 12-4 p.m.
October 7-9
Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre 1575 Indian Trail Road, Norcross GAC 7th and 8th grade students perform the classic Shakespeare comedy. More info can be found at greateratlantachristian.org.
McDaniel Farm Park 3251 McDaniel Rd., Duluth Admission: free All ages are welcome to take a trip to the farm for old time games, games and farm tours. There will also be vendors, hayrides and s’mo res. Go to GwinnettParks.com to find out more.
October Neighborhood15 Cooperative Ministries Live Benefit Concert 7 Mt.p.m.Carmel UMC 5100 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners
Admission: free, donations appreciated Celebrated musicians Phil Griffin and Steven Moor will perform live in support of Neighbor hood Cooperative Ministries. For over 30 years, NCM has helped those in need with a range of services and support. Go to ourncm.org to find out more.
October 20-22
Based on the classic gothic tale by Washing ton Irving, this version of Sleepy Hollow is an outdoor immersion experience presented by Wesleyan High School. It will be held at the Cross Country Trails at the Hoyt Family Athletic Complex. Find out more, like times and ticket pricing, at wesleyanschool.org/arts/drama.
Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre 1575 Indian Trail Road, Norcross GAC Visions presents Alice in Wonderland in a one act form, adapted from the Lewis Carroll classic. For the latest details, go to greateratlan tachristian.org October 7-15 Atlanta Asian Film Festival Saturdays and Sundays Georgia Gwinnett College Cisco Auditorium, Bldg. C 1000 University Center Lane, Lawrenceville Admission: tickets required Films and documentaries by emerging film makers are featured at the AAFF, the largest festival of its kind in the Southeast. Watch the website, atlaff.org, for ticket info and the line-up of films.
October 13-16 Lawless Spirits Two shows per night, 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Lionheart Theatre, 10 College St., Norcross Tickets: $15 per person Lionheart Theatre hosts this Walking Ghost Tour. Guided by costumed characters, the audi ence will walk through the streets of Norcross and learn about local murders, shootouts, bank robberies and ghost stories. Visit lionheartthe atre.org or call 404-919-4022 for tickets.
13 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com September 17 - 18, 2022 Tickets from $12/day Special 2 day ticket: $20 (*Available until the day before the event) Children 6 & under Free! Gas South Convention Center 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth Live Music & Dance Performances Martial Arts & Cultural Workshops Japanese Food & Beer Garden Children's Games & More!
Two showings 8 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth Admission: free; first-come, first-served The classic camp film will be shown with a live shadow cast. Note that this is for mature audi ences only — ages 18+ or with a parent/guard ian — and not for the easily offended. Audience participation is encouraged; free prop kits will be provided. The Red Clay Theatre bar will be open during the show. More at community/rocky_horror_picture_show.php.duluthga.net/
shows features 250 classic German automobiles, including BMWs, Audis, Porsches, Mercedes Benzes, Volkswa gens and Opels. German food, beer and polka
October 22 PTC Summer Concert Series — The Purple Xperience (Prince Tribute)
Best Friend Park, 6224 Jimmy Carter Blvd., Norcross 8 a.m.-6 CelebrateAdmission:p.m.freelovedones who are no longer with us. There’ll be music, food, crafts and a walking parade around the park. Visit gwinnettcounty. com or call 678-277-0222 for more info.
Friday, 7 p.m.; Saturday, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Cornerstone Christian Academy 5295 Triangle Pkwy., Peachtree Corners
Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners
October Deutsche29Klassic Autoberfest 10 a.m.-3
Corners Town Green 5140 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Admission: free About the band: Marshall Charloff’s Purple Xpe rience is a five-piece group that brings the most authentic production of Prince and The Revolu tion to audiences of all generations. The group has entertained well over 300 thousand fans and has shared the bill with groups like Atlanta Rhythm section and Cheap Trick. The calendar at peachtreecornersga.gov has details.
October 29 Sports on the Screen — UGA vs. Florida All Peachtreeday
MadagascarNovemberNovember4-5Jr.
Based on the DreamWorks animated film, the show features students in grades 5-8. It’s a fam ily friendly musical adventure about favorite friends from the movie as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Get details, including ticket prices, at corner stonecougars.org.
ThisAdmission:Downtownp.m.Norcrossfreefamily-friendlycar
October Peachtree22Farm Grand Opening Celebration 2-5 Peachtreep.m. Farm, 356 Research Ct., Peachtree Corners Admission: free; registration requested, but not Peachtreerequired Farm celebrates being open to the public with a pumpkin patch, pumpkin carv ing contest and pumpkin chunkin’. There’ll be college football watching, food and a Peachtree Farm artisan and plant sale. Register and learn more at peachtreefarm.org/tailgate-for-toma toes.
7 Peachtreep.m.
October 29 Dia de Los Muertos
Admission: free Round up some friends to cheer on your team at Town Green. Learn more at the peachtreecornersga.gov calendar.
October 22 Rocky Horror Picture Show
music makes it a true Octoberfest celebration. Activities for kids of all ages. Proceeds benefit North Fulton United FC, a youth focused spots and development group affiliated with Special Olympics. More at the norcrossga.net calendar or deutsche-klassic.com.
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October 22 Train or Treat 2022 11 a.m.-3 Southeasternp.m. Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth Admission: free with museum admission of adults, $18: seniors (65+), $15; kids ages 2-12, $12 This is a family friendly event that includes trick or treating at decorated stations around the mu seum. There’ll also be music and a costume con test for ages 12 and under. Go to train-museum. org or call 770-476-2013 for more information.
Deutsche Klassic Autoberfest
October 22 Pedal Norcross 12-3 Lillianp.m.Webb Park (kick-off) / Downtown Norcross 5 College St., Norcross Admission: free Sustainable Norcross hosts a 2.5-mile bicycle ride through Historic Norcross Learn more and sign up through the calendar at norcrossga.net.
15 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com TWO FANTASTIC CLASSICS! NOVEMBER4-22 FRIDAY & SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM SUNDAY AT 2 PM FRIDAY & SATURDAY AT 7:30 PM SUNDAY AT 2 PM DECEMBER 8 - 18 10 College Street Norcross, GA 404.919.402230071 TICKETSLIONHEARTTHEATRE.ORG$18/16SENIORS/STUDENTS Directed by Darci Rose Wells By James Goldman Directed by Brandi Kilgore EACH FRIDAY at 8:30 am (Except First Fridays) Members & non-members are invited—businesses, non-profits, and community leaders—for networking over FREE coffee! GetConnected The Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce is a more than a place to network...it’s a place to belong! The SWGC is a catalyst for businesses, organizations, and cities to work together, network, and positively impact our communities. Choose an upcoming opportunity where you can learn more about what it’s like to be part of the SWGC! For details and registration requirements for these events and more, visit our website: www.southwestgwinnettchamber.com Interested in membership? September 9 Kimberly Beaudin, CEO Join Us Monthly fornetworkingbreakfast and guest speakers Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame Beaudin is responsible for driving sponsorship, philanthropic development, marketing strategy, and PR for one of the nation's premiere sports and entertainment destinations. Her leadership, experience, energy and enthusiasm will be a great kick-off to football season!
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October Geoff Duncan Georgia Lieutenant Governor Geoffrey L. Duncan is an American businessman, politician, and retired baseball player, serving as the 12th lieutenant governor of Georgia since 2019. A member of the Republican party, Duncan formerly served in the House of Representatives form 2013-2017. He is a graduate of Georgia Institute of Technology.
History of celebration
Although it has celebrated the diversity within the community in the past, this is the first year that the city of Norcross will host a Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. Prior to the pandemic, the city held an event called the Gateway International Festival during Welcoming Week (which annually takes place during Hispanic Heritage Month). The event was so well-received, it was named a Top 20 Event in 2019 by Southeast Tourism Society, according to Norcross city officials. As events started to come back post-COVID, the city decided to freshen things up and in clude more intentional events geared toward diversity. Last year, the city introduced the Dia de los Muertos Festival and has continued with Latin-inspired celebrations by adding Viva Mexico to its events lineup in May.
Hispanic CelebrationHeritage
As reported to us or by their family or persons that know them: Brain fog, cognition, behavior, sleeping, talking, chewing, swallowing, fine movements, muscle mass and strength, walking, jumping, and running, socialization, sharing, comprehension, concentration, planning, memory, learning, reading, writing, math and chronic pain. After
November 4-20
Before
The observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon John son and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988. The theme for 2022 is “Unidos: Inclusivity for a Stronger Nation.”
By Arlinda Smith Broady
Some background info Hispanic Heritage Month seems like a little bit of a misnomer because it actually spans two months. Beginning Sept. 15, it runs through Oct. 15 because that day coincides with the national independence day of several Latin countries — Guatemala, Honduras, El Salva dor, Nicaragua and Costa Rica.
Similarly, Mexico celebrates its independence on Sept. 16, Chile on Sept. 18 and Belize on Sept. 21. The term Hispanic refers to people whose an cestry is from Spain. Many Latin American, Central American, South American and Ca ribbean countries were colonized by Spanish explorers and many of the inhabitants of those countries have Spanish ancestry.
Like other months dedicated to the heritage of ethnicities that comprise this country, His panic Heritage Month was enacted to recog nize the achievements and contributions of Hispanic American champions who have in spired others to gain success. Most notably, the United States appointed its first Supreme Court associate justice of Latin descent, Sonia Sotomayor, in 2009.
However, Brazil is one country that was settled by the Portuguese, so technically, its inhabi tants aren’t Hispanic. That’s why many would like to see the name changed to Latin Heritage Month or something similar.
Many note that an explorer working for the King and Queen of Spain, Christopher Colum bus, introduced the Americas to Europeans. Columbus Day, or Día de la Raza, which is Oc tober 12, falls within the 30-day period. ##
A View from the Bridge Two shows per night, 6:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Lionheart Theatre, 10 College St., Tickets:Norcross$18adults; $16 se Anniors/studentsArthurMiller play, A View from the Bridge centers on Brooklyn longshoreman Ed die Carbone as he welcomes his immigrant cousins to America. When one of them falls for Eddie’s young niece, an unspeakable secret is exposed. For tickets and details, go to lionhearttheatre.org or call 404-919-4022. ##
Norcross Celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month Event
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On Sept. 17, the Hispanic Heritage Festival will take place at Summerour Middle School. It will be one of the first — with more anticipated in the future — city events held on the other side of Buford Highway. Over recent years, it has come to the city’s attention that there is a feel ing of a divide in the community — that there are two sides to Norcross that are separated by Buford Highway, with one side underserved with little convenient public access to green spaces, events, art and development.
September 17, 2-6 p.m. Summerour Middle School Parking Lot Please refer to the Hispanic Heritage calendar to find more events throughout the area.
It has been a strategic goal of the city for many years to bridge this divide, and many projects have been in the works to fulfill this goal. Go ing forward, city officials said they will contin ue focusing efforts to build community inclu siveness.
17 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com Call 770-476-3636 to schedule an appointment. Now accepting new patients in Duluth. 3500 McClure Bridge Road | Duluth, GA 30096 Eniki Mack, MD, FACE Azeem Mohammed, MD Fahad Khan, MD, RhMSUS™ Deep Shikha, MD, FACE Endocrinology Endocrinology Sreedevi Avdhani, EndocrinologyMD RheumatologyNephrology Santhi Chennareddy, MD Deb Schulte Long, CFNP Internal Medicine Internal Medicine Alexandra Moore, PA-C Internal Medicine
Hence, I made it my personal mission to get acquainted with how and where we can finally come together and revel with colleagues, fami ly and friends for any occasion. The unique op tions and venues available to us in Southwest Gwinnett won’t cramp anyone’s style, OTP (outside the perimeter of I-285) or otherwise. Allow me to share a smattering of them with you and let’s have some fun! Morsels by Melissa morselsbymelissa.com Figaro qua, Figaro là
“Everything is from scratch — sauces, mari nades. I butcher meat, not from the animal — I clean tenderloins, cut pork chops, carve my New York strip steaks from a 20-pound loin. I also smoke my own meats,” she said.
How many caterers can also be hired to sing an aria from the Marriage of Figaro or Madame Butterfly at your special event? Not many, but lyric soprano, Melissa Gunderson of Mor sels by Melissa can!
Gunderson delights in seeing party guests rave about her food. Since 2000, Morsels by Melis sa has been providing catering for any type of event, from family gatherings of 12 to corpo rate cocktail receptions and weddings of 300. Do you require a special occasion picnic bas ket, boxed lunches, a buffet or a seated dinner, a simple food drop-off or full five-hour ser vice? Gunderson can deliver in all scenarios with your cuisine of choice: Southern comfort
How to Fête inGreatGwinnettSouthwestSpacesandCaterersforYourNextEvent
We’ve embraced life’s celebrations since time immemorial. After having been robbed of them to varying degrees over the last cou ple of years, fêting with our loved ones rouses more powerful ju bilation than a pressure cooker on the highest setting, finally able to release steam. It’s a funda mental part of the human condition to want to share our greatest joys and lowest slumps with people we care about.
— Jim Carrey in the movie, The Mask.
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After a decade of performances as an opera singer, moonlighting with illustrious cater ing companies and working as a personal chef for three years, Gunderson was ready to head home to Georgia, satisfied with the bite she had taken of the Big Apple. Leaving the bright lights of New York behind, Gunderson also set out to abandon the rigors of practicing and traveling to make a living in a manner more favorable to family life. So, she tapped into her passion for cooking and baking full time.
Let Caterers Bring the Party to You
“It’s party time. P, A, R, T…Why? Because I gotta!”
Tasty morsels Today the artistic show she finds gratifying is the presentation of her American gourmet cuisine crafted using time-honored French techniques. She loves the whole preparation process; chopping, slicing, dicing, marinating, grilling, smoking, making sauces.
Other photography provided by the individual businesses
Words by Patrizia Winsper Photography for Aomi and The Imperial Fez by George Hunter
You may know someone deserving of fresh, superhero-themed doughnuts, or want some healthy prepared bowls to grab-and-go for yourself and those counting on you for their sustenance. Allow this mighty market to save the Bonus:day. Pop-in to find some neat, locally sourced gifts because you’re never too busy to be thoughtful.
This chic, urban style market provides fresh breakfasts, lunches and dinners that you’d make for your family yourself — if you were an excellent cook and had the time or the inclina tion. “It’s homemade food that you don’t have to make,” Hanson explained. She also bakes custom cakes, cookies, pastries and desserts that you only wish you could make.
Top, Wedding Reception with plated Ceasar Salads
www.evansmarket.com
Evan’s Urban Market
food, Italian, French or Asian. It can be a casual affair or a fine dining experience. Gunderson’s team has you covered, right down to floral blescapes.themesrangements,arandta When food is flexible lem.areedneeds.esclient’sadaptedmenusGunderson’scanbetoeachwishanddietaryRestrictdietoptionsnotaprobWhenyou plan a party with Morsels by Melissa, you’ll speak directly to the owner herself, who over sees every last detail. Popular event menus include pepper seared filet with cherry sauce, potatoes au gratin, grilled vegetables, green beans and chocolate cake with raspberry coulis. “My turkey burgers are like no other burger you’ve ever had; peo ple love them — and my chicken salad. They’re on every family meal menu,” Gunderson said.
Above, Plated Flourless Chocolate Cakes with Raspberry Coulis. Photo courtesy of Melissa Gunderson
Fun facts At 16, Gunderson was already an accomplished pastry chef, so it’s no surprise that she makes tons of delectable desserts and cakes. You can join her email list at morselsbyme lissa@gmail.com to receive monthly meal menus which can be ordered for pick up or de livery.
Melissa Gunderson
Evan PhotoHansonbyIsadora
All over the charcuterie board
ProsciuttoPenningtonandmelon appetizers
How would you like some dainty amuse-bouches, a grazing table, a colossal charcuterie board, bite sized chicken and waffles, or creamy gar lic chicken at your next party? Perhaps you’d like to offer guests a taco, Mimosa or Bloody Mary Hansonbar?is a pro at accommodating gluten free, keto, vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, dairy-free and just about any other dietary restrictions. Usually, her food is picked-up or delivered, but she can provide patio and limited indoor seat ing on site.
This little market went to the party Hanson’s catering selections are trendy and elegant. “We can do ap petizers to desserts, and anything in between,” Hanson said. Her team will set out boxed lunches, appetiz ers, finger foods, or create and re plenish hot buffets at your event.
19 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
Did you know the newest maven of prepared food in Peachtree Corners, Evan Hanson of Evan’s Urban Market, can also cater your next corporate lunch, birthday, bridal or baby shower, graduation or holiday party for up to 200 guests? Hours of operation are Tuesday through Friday, 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m.; and 8 a.m.2 p.m. on weekends. Catered events can spill outside of those times.
From flaming onion volcanos on a hibachi grill to fiery swords balancing on the heads of hip-sway ing belly dancers, there’s no shortage of diversity and variety in Southwest Gwinnett, where you will find the perfect event space for any kind of party you can conceive. Follow me for a glimpse into some neat locations I discovered around town!
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riott-peachtree-cornersmarriott.com/en-us/hotels/atlcp-atlanta-mar
The Marriott Atlanta Peachtree Corners
It’s open 24 hours a day, but the sales team can be reached Mon day to Friday from 8:30 a.m.5 p.m. Catering Sales Manag er MathewsChristina has overseen thou sands of events — mitzvahs, sweet 16 birth days, nuptials, baby showers, holiday parties, family reunions and “Wemeetings.have5,000 square feet of adjustable meeting space, from boardrooms to ballrooms. Our 2,816 square foot ballroom can accommodate standing-only receptions of 300, 150 people seated at banquet rounds with a dance floor,” Mathews said. “We also have a beautiful courtyard with a fire pit that can host ceremonies or cocktail receptions for 100 or less. Our garden area can accommo date 80 or less for a ceremony. Our secluded boardroom has natural light, sits on the second floor and can host nine guests in nice office chairs.”
The hotel bustles with referrals for wedding room blocks, bridal suites, rehearsal dinners, welcome receptions and farewell brunches being that it’s surrounded by wedding power houses like St. Ives Country Club, Spring Hall and the Atlanta Athletic Club.
The only full-service Marriott in Gwinnett County Catch a ride on an autonomous vehicle to the renovated Marriott on Technology Parkway.
You and your guests can enjoy appetizers like spring rolls, fried calamari and tempura. Ca tering packages combine appetizers, entrees, sides and sushi platters. Picture colorful trays of rolls, nigiri (a raw slice of fish like salmon or blue fin tuna atop a pillow of vinegared rice), sashimi (thin, raw slices of fish), hibachi with seasonal vegetables and fried rice. Flavorful salads and desserts are also available. Oishī!
Southwestlet’sForadaptbleswithwholeatpleIfpackages.wa-norcrossVisit(Delicious!)ezcater.com/catering/pvt/sushi-osatoselectyourdesiredcateringOrdersover$100canbedelivered.you’realsoinneedofavenue,sixto100peocanbeaccommodatedforprivateeventsSushiOsawa.Forpartiesof60ormore,therestaurantwouldneedtobereservedaminimumspendof$25perperson.Taandchairscaneasilyberearrangedtotoanygroupsize.thosewhowanttodancetoadifferenttuna,visitsomeotherinterestingsitesforourGwinnettsocials.
www.sushiosawa.online
Known for authentic Southern cuisine, Execu tive Chef Kenny Botte creates guest favorites like Apple Glazed Salmon, Thyme and Cara A Sashimi party platter
A winter look at The Marriott Atlanta
PEACHTREE CORNERS
Wedding Salon at The Marriott Atlanta
Perks like certified planners and more at the Marriott Get professional help with every detail, includ ing budget, table arrangement and settings, vendors, entertainment and selecting a menu.
Sushi Osawa
When it comes to catering, this is how they roll Manager Joyce Yuan at Sushi Osawa aims to meet your catering needs safely, with a com mitment to providing good food and service. “We have successfully catered parties from corporate luncheons to birthday parties, grad parties and more. Our team members are here to help with your menu selections and unique needs,” Yuan said. With little advance notice required and menus for every event, from individually packed su shi, hibachi, poke or ramen boxed lunches to party trays, big or small, you can easily have your next shindig catered by Sushi Osawa and serve your guests centuries-old Japanese cui sine so beautifully arranged and presented, it looks like a work of art. Hours of operation are Monday through Thurs day, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday 11 a.m.10 p.m.; and 11 a.m.-8:30 p.m. on Sundays. Keep it simple and fresh like sushi
Host Parties at Unique Locations Around Town
Perhaps the most mispronounced eatery in town, Stäge is one of the newest on the Peachtree
It’s a transfer of skill, knowledge and passion that occurs during a young chef’s stäge, from the French word for apprenticeship. It’s pronounced “staahj” — and it’s time we get it right. They’ve been in business for over a year. Here’s some help; hear the proper pronuncia tion at howtopronounce.com/french/stage/ by clicking on the arrow next to the word. That ambitious spirit to try new things of a bud ding, adventurous chef is likely what’s behind the seasonally changing menu, its internation al cuisine and the name, Stäge Kitchen & Bar. You had me at seafood, steak, pasta, global tapas and elevated sushi Director of Operations Raquel Stalcup provid ed guidance on hosting parties at Stäge. Their broad bill of fare is sure to have something for “Oureveryone.setmenus are highly customizable and provide a variety of our most popular items. They can be two to five course menus. The menu selected most often is our three-course menu of starters, entrée and dessert,” Stalcup shared. Dietary needs can be incorporated into the menu design.
Firebirds Wood Fired Grill peachtree-corners.firebirdsrestaurants.com
Corners restaurant scene. Early in their careers, chefs work as unpaid interns to learn new tech niques under accomplished chefs they admire.
melized Shallot Chicken Breast, Smoked Man hattan Rubbed Beef Brisket and Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Maple Gastrique and Sunflower Seed Gremolata. He prepares vegetarian, pes catarian, vegan or kosher requests and creates substitutions for those with peanut allergies and gluten intolerance. Outside catering is per mitted for guests who would like a particular chef or ethnic cuisine. Personalize the space with décor packages that include upgraded chair covers, satin overlays and up-lighting. AV equipment and high-speed Wi-Fi allow for sentimental slideshows to en hance the experience. Virtual access is available for those who can’t attend the event in person.
The perfect sear for a smoking soirée Kick off your next polished, casual event at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill at Town Center. The restaurant has been named one of ten ‘Break out Brands’ by Nation’s Restaurant News and Diners’ Choice by OpenTable. Nothing beats the flavor of food infused with the aromatic compounds of wood smoke served fresh off the grill. It’s a terrific venue for birth days, anniversaries, wedding and baby show ers, corporate or civic gatherings. The intimate enclosed patio with garage doors, TV screens, ceiling fans and heaters is carpeted and accom modates up to 22 people for a private function. Group dining menus are fully customizable and include vegetarian and gluten-free options. En joy a selection of mouthwatering choices like succulent shrimp-topped filet mignon, grilled chicken, baby back ribs, seafood, seasonal fresh vegetables, house made tater tots and cider slaw. The kids’ menu offers an assortment of de licious choices certified by the National Restau rant Association’s Kids LiveWell program. For Group Dining menus, visit
For those who’d prefer to bring the special touches of Firebirds Wood Fired Grill home, the restaurant offers an off-site catering solution that makes planning a party a piece of cake. For more information contact Marylou Metivier at 770-225-4662 or marylou.metivier@fbgrill. com. Restaurant hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Stäge Kitchen & Bar stagepeachtreecorners.com Not stage, Stäge!
21 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
saidspecialpartiesis“Agroup-dining.ners.firebirdsrestaurants.com/menus/peachtree-corfabulousdiningexperienceiswhatFirebirdsallabout.Wehostmanyprivatemeetingsandthroughouttheyear.Welovemakingeventscometolifeattherestaurant,”
Marylou Metivier, Managing Partner. Metivier recommends calling or emailing to book an event at least two weeks in advance. Catering options? Fire away!
Striped bass at FirebirdsFiredWoodGrill Party space at Stäge Kitchen & Bar.
One may elect to host a seated or reception-style party at Stäge. Two private dining rooms seat up to 36 guests each. For larger parties of up to 70, a door opens to combine the two spaces. The patio is large enough for 60 guests, seated or standing. The area between the bar and kitchen can also be used to host happy hour or cocktail style Restaurantevents.hours are Monday to Thursday, 11 Filet and shrimp at Firebirds Wood Fired Grill
Toto, I’ve a feeling we’re not at a typical party anymore Be the star of your next function by treating invitees to an elevated movie screening experi ence as part of your celebration at CMX CinéBis tro. Show the latest movie, bring your own content for special programming or play video games on the big screen, all in 4K digital projection and 7.1 surround sound.
Shelley Korenbrot, Atlanta Area Events and Sales Manager, recommends booking seven to 14 business days in advance. The number of guests and the movie start time will determine your party’s timeline. The facility is equipped with “…six theatres; three screens have 101 seats and three screens have 95 seats. The lounge area — where guests can sit in booths, at tables or stand and mingle — can hold up to 150 guests. The private dining room can hold a standing reception for 20 guests or up to 15 seated guests,” Korenbrot said.
A fête worthy of the big screen
There is something extraordinarily luxurious about feasting on delectable beef sliders or pan seared Atlantic salmon on a convenient swing-arm personal table while sitting in a plush leather seat watching a movie shown with state-of-the-art projection and audio. Your guests will never forget this epic experience at CMX CinéBistro.
Another kind of dinner and a show Aomi at the Forum serves up dinner and a show, consisting of chefs skillfully wielding spatulas during a sort of live cooking show enhanced by a pyrotechnic performance as guests look on tableside. It’s Japanese cuisine on fire — liter ally. Hibachi means “fire bowl.” Watch as steak, chicken, salmon and lobster are prepared on the hibachi grill with fried rice.
A sushi bar is also part of the Aomi experience during both lunch and dinner. They prepare all your favorites like sushi rolls, sashimi, nigiri and udon noodle dishes.
You can have up to 110 guests around different hibachi tables sectioned off for your private event. Parties of up to 140 people can be accom modated in the restaurant. A buyout option is contingent upon the size, start time and dura tion of your party. Manager Scott Choi suggested grouping The Private Dining Room at CMX Ciné Bistro Below, Cheese Board setup
All sorts of get-togethers can take place here: book clubs, birthdays, professional conferences, cocktail and dinner parties. Find comfortable, reclining theatre seats, movie concessions like popcorn and can dy, a chef-crafted menu, beer, fine wine and hand-crafted cocktails for the ulti mate in-theatre dining experience. Alternatively, you can have lunch or din ner at the restaurant or bar, or in the pri vate dining room before the movie begins.
cmxcinemas.com/locationdetail/peachtree
“What’s special about a hibachi party is the so cial aspect of a large group getting together to have really amazing food and creating mem ories at the same time. It’s entertainment. We provide the best quality we can,” said Manager Kenny GatherPark.bythe
Aomi RestaurantJapanese aomijapanese.com
22 a.m.-10 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday, brunch 11 a.m.-3 p.m. and dinner 4:30 p.m.-9 p.m. If you’d rather have Stäge come to you, they do offer drop-off or off-site catering and service as well.
Magnifique! CMX PeachtreeCinéBistroCorners
Vice President of Culinary Development Andy King opened the curtain on their private party options. “We offer customizable service for any type of event, such as passed small bites, plat ed dinners or the classic buffet,” he said. “Our highly skilled bar staff can create custom cock tails to really make your event one of a kind.”
fire to eat and drink
Gluten free and vegetarian options are offered. CMX CinéBistro at Peachtree Corners can also adjust menus to meet food restrictions. Prepare for a fine dining experience here with dishes prepared in a scratch kitchen. It’s a restaurant that also shows movies with better sound and picture quality than you’ll ever have at Kinghome.added, “Food is something that brings peo ple together and it’s a way to share and celebrate our diverse cultures. New American cuisine, to me, is the very definition of that. It is a melting pot of comfort food with a global influence.”
Hibachi chef Jun Kwon in action at Aomi at the Forum
A sparkly send-off at the 173 Carlyle House
The gazebo in the garden is a favorite place for ceremonies at the Atrium
The Atrium in Norcross is a two-story, white neoclassical building. Three of the ballroom’s four sides are floor-to-ceiling windows over looking an elegant courtyard and a quaint and unexpected Italian marble gazebo adorned with flourishing greenery.
Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com guests according to food allergies or sensitiv ities so one grill can prepare vegetarian meals only, for example. Business hours are Sunday through Thursday, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; they’re open until 10 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Aomi of ten delivers to places of business during the week.NORCROSS The 173 Carlyle House 173carlylehouse.com
Experience and elegance meet GeriseimaginationJanousek, Special Events Coordina tor at 173 Carlyle House, says of this charming historic house in Old Norcross: “We are a fami ly-owned business that has been doing this for 32 years. We have …long-standing staff that has been in the service industry for years. Delicious food is made on site by our chefs …in the restau rant business in Atlanta for over 50 years. We have spaces for all size parties that can accom modate any vision one may have.” Any special event, from 20 to 450 people, can be hosted here. One hundred people can be accommodated for a seated dinner in the old house. The ballroom and terrace each hold 200 people, seated. Elegant surroundings, tall mag nolia trees and nicely landscaped outdoor areas make this an ideal location for celebrations. Vegetarian and gluten free options are available at 173 Carlyle House. Clients may discuss hav ing certain cultural dishes brought in with their event coordinator. Delicious and attractive cus tom cakes are also made in-house. Schedule a tour of the facility Monday through Saturday by appointment only. The Atrium magicweddingvenues.com/the-atrium
Fête in style at a stunning estate
Brides looking to get married in 2023 need to act Everyonequickly.is still making-up for lost time since the great isolation of COVID-19, so for the prime months of September, October, May or June, it’s safest to book a year in advance. “In this market, everything is booking up so fast. We’re booking into 2024 right now,” Mintz said. Not just a pretty place “Our food is locally sourced, but international ly recognized. We run the gamut, from South ern staples like fried green tomatoes, mac and cheese, fried chicken and pulled pork all the way to more eclectic options from around the world,” Mintz stated. “A favorite is our Poke Station, which was created after the company owner traveled to Hawaii and was able to learn the secrets from local chefs. In order to create authentic Indian cuisine, our chef de cuisine spent time in India, which resulted in a deli cious Indian fusion that has become very pop Theular.”chefs are comfortable providing gluten free, vegan, dairy free and vegetarian fare. The experts here handle everything: cakes, desserts, florals and design, food, beverages and rentals like lounge seating and up lighting to make the
Aomi at the Forum
The garden and ballroom are ideal for ceremo ny and reception spaces. The outdoor space is used during most events, whether for seating, highboys, an hors d’oeuvres table or a second bar. A built-in contingency plan to set up inside means you’ll never have to worry about inclem ent weather; the final decision can be made as late as two hours prior to start time. This dazzling property screams wedding, but General Manager Kristin Mintz shared the ins and outs of hosting a party at The Atrium, revealing it’s the ideal location for any private, all-inclusive affair, such as birthday and retire ment parties, company galas and and even cele bration of life events.
There’s a maximum capacity of 150 for a seated/ served meal or a mingling cocktail reception. Starting packages include a buffet. Seated din ners allow the chefs to be more creative when plating. Sometimes buffet stations are added — for late-night snacks, for instance. An event revenue minimum, based on the season and day reserved, must be met. You may tour The Atrium Tuesday through Sat urday, by appointment only. Venue incentives are available for select dates with tons of cus tomizable options for couples to chose from.
Escape to the small town feel of an exquisitely dainty, quaint cottage for a tea party. Ivy Tea House provides a picture-perfect ambiance for rehearsal dinners, wedding receptions, birth days, bridal and baby showers. The newly re modeled house feels homey with an airy, mod ern edge.
Ivy Tea House — Atlanta Tea House + Event Space ivyteahouse.com Par-tea with pinkies up!
Add-ons include a corkage fee for the glassware and serving of any alcohol brought in by guests.
The Crowne Plaza Hotel Atlanta NE — Norcross https://bit.ly/3CIcwxZCROWN
Discover your favorite tea blend. Is it Luscious London black tea with rose hip or Lemon Me ringue?
Partake in the tradition of afternoon or high tea and be treated to the attentive service of a by-reservation-only type of affair with deli cate two- and three-tiered serving trays tower ing with savory and sweet selections like wild mushroom flatbread, sausage meatballs, cu cumber and chicken salad finger sandwiches, cardamom-sultana scones, quiche and raspber ry almond cake with rose glaze — all carefully garnished with fresh-cut flowers.
The 3120 is a new, modern venue whose owners have been in the event space business for over 10 years; they also own KTN Ballroom in Dulu th. With giant, customizable 4K LED screens, a professional audio system and full decoration packages with up lighting, this versatile space can take on an enchanting ambiance and be just the place for any stage of life celebration, holiday or company party, conference or semi Evennar. concerts can take place here, provided they remain within the 250-person maximum capac Surroundedity. by nature, the private property of A beautiful tablescape at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Ivy Tea House Ivy Tea House
This recently updated hotel offers 9,000 square feet of elegant, modern event space and aims to exceed expectations. Banquets for 20 to 500 guests can take place at the Crowne Plaza for any occasion imaginable. For standing only re ception style events, up to 1000 people can be “Ouraccommodated.menuvaries from classic Americana to Caribbean, Italian, Ethiopian, street tacos and paella,” said Director of Sales and Marketing Christina Howell-Scott. These can be served plated or buffet and reception style with unique action stations available. Groups may bring in kosher or Indian cuisine, provided they present the proper Howell-Scottlicensing.stressed the importance of book ing your event the minute a date is set.
The 3120 the3120.com Parties, special events and concerts welcome
A pot of tea awaits you at your table when you arrive. As you enjoy it, elevated trays brimming with your food selections arrive. They are pre pared as ordered, just before your arrival.
“The tea-party, …has no …basis but delicate enjoyment.” — Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin Aranthza Fenimore, General Manager and Tea Consultant, is on track to become a tea somme lier by end of year. She shared the particulars of private functions at the tea house. Her enthu siasm for what she and the all-female team do there pours into her every word.
“Our towers are beautifully presented. So much effort goes into every little detail. People gasp when they see them. They bring a lot of joy and excitement,” Fenimore said.
Tea for two — or three — or 100 Two to 100 guests can enjoy a semi-private or private occasion in an indoor/outdoor setting, seated or buffet style, provided they book at least two weeks in advance for a Friday and one to two months in advance for a Saturday, either for a 12 p.m., 2 p.m. or 3 p.m. seating.
24 room glow. The Atrium is a powerhouse, thanks to the quality of its food and capabilities of its design studio. But Mintz credits her devoted team the most. “Our people make us stand out. They really make the event special; they love what they do. Several of our clients have all their children get married at one of our properties,” Mintz smiled.
Anything on their afternoon tea, high tea or ca tering menu can be ordered for your event. You can also create a unique party menu. The chef is open to accommodating special dietary needs.
My girlie eyes could not believe what they had spotted when I first scrolled onto an Ivy Tea House Instagram post. From the owners of the beloved Bleu House Café and Ginger Spice Bakery was born this little jewel of a tea house nestled in a verdant garden of monsteras, lilies and an avocado tree in historic Norcross. China plates adorn the walls, teaware is thrifted and expressly set in a mismatched fashion.
A pampering, self-care kind of experience is what they aim for at Ivy Tea House. The staff can provide a one-stop shop for party hosting with everything from décor and food to custom cakes, florals, balloons, garlands and rentals.
Make up for lost party time
“We’ve been entrusted with numerous milestone events and corporate dinners. We will create the perfect meal to wow all your guests,” Eisele said.
The private dining room at Kurt’s Bistro is the perfect place for intimate events
DULUTH Kurt’s Bistro kurtsrestaurant.com
Guten appetit!
Celebrate at Kurt’s Monday through Saturday, from 4 p.m.-9 p.m. You can create a customized menu to cover any dietary restrictions you may need and any variety of food choices you may like. Lunch and dinner Prix Fixe menus and an Oktoberfest catering menu are also available.
Planning feasts for over 35 years Kurt’s Bistro has relocated a few times over the years, but it’s been serving delicious German fare like schnitzels, sauerbraten and apple strudel ever since its inception in 1985. Not at all limit ed to Oktoberfest delights, ribeye, seabass, lamb rack and a bevy of other scrumptious choices are on the bistro’s menu. Their Black Forest Spätzle (soft egg noodles) with cheese and bacon is a supreme combination of irresistible texture and rich flavor. I met with General Manager Alexander Eisele, Kurt’s son, who is in the kitchen daily, preparing all the basics before the staff arrives. With his Ger man-born father and chef at the helm, the family is united in its fervidness to serve delicious food. In 2011, they downsized from a sizeable 1930s home to their current location on Peachtree In dustrial Boulevard. Here, The Panoz Room can hold two to six guests for a private event. A cozy space known as The Wine Cellar accommodates get-togethers of 32 people, ideal for rehearsal dinners and other family festivities. It also works
“If you want a Budweiser or broccoli cheese soup, don’t come here. We try to be unique. That’s one of the reasons we’ve been in business for 35 years,” Eisele said. He also cited their ability to evolve while avoid ing trends, and keeping the quality of their food consistently high, as reasons for their longevity.
well for corporate groups of 10 to 14 who make use of the room’s screen and audio system for Thepresentations.coveredpatio can be a perfect place to get your party started before being seated for a meal. It’s also rented for larger groups or casual cock tail parties. Renting the entire restaurant is also an option.
25 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com Host your next event at Grace 17.20! Specializing in: Bridal Luncheons, Rehearsal Dinners, Weddings Business Meetings Family Celebrations 678 421 1720 events@grace1720 com fers plenty of lovely outdoor areas that make an ideal setting for photo opportunities. The facility includes a main hall or front lobby (3,000 square feet), a large buffet room with windows (2,500 square feet), a ballroom (4,686 square feet) and two convenient changing rooms. Consider booking at least three months prior to your desired event date. Parties are held Monday to Friday in the evenings, and all-day Saturday and Sunday until 2 a.m.
“We encompass what we started with; we’re a chef-based restaurant. That’s why people should be going out to eat, for the food,” Eisele said.
imperialfezrestaurant.com
I spoke to Chef and Owner Rita Benjelloun, who along with her husband, fellow Chef and Owner Rafih, takes great pride in sharing their Leavecustoms.your shoes and worries at the door. Your five-course meal begins with a tableside wash ing-of-the-hands ritual. Using a “tass,” an ornate sliver kettle and bowl set, a server pours warm rose water from the kettle onto your hands as you wash. The matching silver bowl catches the water below. Utensils are abandoned in favor of using your hands to consume the savory meal.
Shake it up Indulge in dishes like Lamb Tajine, Chicken Kabobs, Couscous, Lemon Pepper Crispy Pom pano and Roasted Pheasant with pomegranate sauce. Enjoy the meal as belly dancers move fluidly about with traveling steps and turns, en tertaining diners as they accent the beat of the Middle Eastern music with staccato hip move ments and relaxed shoulder shimmies. For all that may seem foreign at Imperial Fez, fa miliar favorites like a full bar and VIP tables are also available. “A wide range of foods, including Caesar Salad and Mediterranean dishes with an Italian and Spanish influence, are also on the menu. It’s not just Moroccan food,” Benjelloun Specialsaid. dietary needs, including Halal, can be accommodated. Benjelloun recommends at least three to four days’ notice for a weekday event, and as much advance notice as possible for weekend parties, as that is when they’re bus iest. Imperial Fez is open Wednesday to Satur day, 6 p.m.-10 p.m. and parties can be booked on any day. ## Happy gathering!
With social event catering options to make it easy, and so many fascinating location possibil ities in our region, I hope this guide has spurred some ideas for you and I hope it comes in handy as you organize soirées again. I’ll look forward to receiving more party invita tions as we continue to come out of the pandem ic-induced interruption of our usual social activ ities. So how will you choose to Fête in Southwest Gwinnett? I’d love to hear all about it!
From left, Joshua , Riaghan, Maesyn and wife Ariana
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BERKELEY LAKE Imperial RestaurantMediterraneanFez&Lounge
Be whisked away to North Africa After a 30-year stint in Buckhead, Imperial Fez Mediterranean Restaurant moved to Berkley Lake. The OTP crowd gained a sensory escape to the faraway sights, sounds, aromas and flavors of North Africa. Loyal Buckhead patrons willingly head north east now for the unique ambiance, authentic Moroccan cuisine, excellent service and exotic entertainment they’d long enjoyed. What an exciting and surprising way to be able to fête in Southwest Gwinnett! Have your next meeting or celebration at Impe rial Fez and journey to Morocco for two hours with up to 125 of your dearest friends and loved ones. Private rooms are available for your spe cial occasions, like The Rabat for intimate gatherings of up to 15 people or The Marrakesh room for a party of 30-35 guests. Larger parties of up to 70 can be accommodated in The Casa Blanca room. Patio space is also available. Sit on low, loungestyle seating with pillows and sofas or at regular tables, chairs and booths. Amidst the ethnic décor of richly colored fab rics and intricate patterns, you’ll encounter traditional Moroccan cuisine and hospitality.
Imperial Fez Chefs and Owners, Rita and Rafih Benjelloun
Dancer Sigel leading the Guallett family in dancing at the Imperial Fez
The adventurous Peets brew the beer on site, crafting a nice variety of both European and American style beers. They once dreamed about it; today they’re doing it and they have the merchandise and event space to prove Fillit. out their online form to start planning your next event at Kettlerock Brewing.## anderbybrewing.com/private-events— Atlanta Tech Park — atlantatechpark.com at Simpsonwood Park — 770.822.5450 nettCounty.comGwinnettHistoricRentals@Gwinor Hill magicweddingvenues.com/flint-hill— Gwen Tajz Wine Bar gwentajzwinebar.com Hilton events/atlhphf-hilton-atlanta-northeast/hilton.com/en/hotels/ Zone — nitrozone.com
Your Partners In-Private Home Care
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The restaurant name is a nod to Bible verse Matthew 17:20, which ex presses the powerful notion that nothing is impossible for those who have even the tiniest amount of faith, because even if that faith is as small as a mustard seed, it can move mountains. Planning a party here however is a breeze, no mountain-moving required.
see a double-sided stone fire place, an antler-adorned chandelier and a bear rug — not the skin, a regu lar rug with a bear design on it — that’s because the owners cherish their fond memories of family vacations in North Carolina where, you guessed it, there’s an actual Kettle Rock Mountain.
Proudly Servicing Grace 1720 Agrace1720.com/privateeventstieredfountaininthecourtyard,
mountainIfgraduates.ofbePeachtreeopenEngineersHowplace.andandsquareingcauseParkwayNemoe’sYoukettlerockbrewing.com/private-events/won’tbefindingonPeachtreeanymorebeKettlerockBrewmovedintothe5,000footspacelastyearbuiltacozytaproombrewingfacilityinitsmanyGeorgiaTechdoesittaketoamicrobreweryinCorners?Six,toexact–allsixmembersthePeetfamilyareTechyoufeellikeyou’reinacabinwhenyoustepinsideand
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■ Mojito’s the Forum — mojitosbistro.com ■ Nitro
Atlanta Northeast —
■ Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center ty-Center-Reservationsnorcrossga.net/153/Communi— ■ Pinckneyville Park Community Center — Info & Rentals: 678.277.0920, or PCCenter@GwinnettCounty.comemail ■ Noona Meat & Seafood tionswww.noonaduluth.com/reserva ■ Bowlero — cation/bowlero-norcross/partiesbowlero.com/lo
The Chef’s Room is ide al for an intimate group of 10-12 people who want a private space. The doors can be shut for total privacy.
travertine marble floors and pret ty chandeliers would set the stage nicely for your next celebration. The European ambiance and rustic-chic décor of Grace 1720 in the Forum has been a neighborhood favorite for 18 years, offering up contemporary American cuisine.
■ Chapel
Kettlerock Brewing
Other Venues Around Town Where You Can Host Private Events ■ Anderby Brewing
The Private Dining Room upstairs features a beautiful chandelier and a large banquet ta ble. Capacity is 40 peo ple for a seated meal. Cocktail parties could accommodate more. The Bar Area lends it self well to a mingling cocktail party.
The Main Dining Room can be reserved for a party of 60 or more. When outside tempera tures are not prohibi tive, the doors can be opened onto the patio creating an indoor/outdoor offers nice views, a fountain and a fireplace for the cooler days ahead. It can seat 45-50 people. If you reserve the patio and Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, your event will be moved to the Private Dining Room Aupstairs.totalbuyout would allow you to host the maximum number of guests, 155 occupancy.
27 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com NowNewAcceptingClientswww.gaddielservices.comCall us 770-559-5312today! GwinnettFulton RockdaleClayton HenryCobb DekalbWalton NewtonFayette CherokeeForsyth
For similar reasons, owner North American Properties (NAP) has decided to redesign The Forum’s emblem and give it a new logo and brand identity. The changes were announced at the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Com merce’s First Friday Breakfast on Aug. 5. Simi lar to the previously mentioned companies, it’s a subtle change that opens up new possibilities and conjures up an updated perspective on the familiar concept.
28 The ‘customer’AUndergoesForumBrandRefreshslightlynewnameandachangefroma‘tenant,’and‘retail’perspectivetoa‘partner,’‘guest’and‘experience’approachcreatesadowntownforthecityofPeachtreeCorners.
“We really have always approached our invest ments much more from a community perspec tive,” said Tim Perry, managing partner at NAP. “We changed the jargon and our entire industry really started using words like ‘com munity,’ and marketing started using words like ‘guests’ instead of ‘customers’ and started using ‘partners’ instead of tenants and start ed referring to our own people as ‘experience
Words by Arlinda Smith Broady
In a state resplendent with easily recognizable and long-time sym bols of business, industry and com merce, it’s no wonder that a strong brand logo means a lot here. The triangle or “widget” that represents Delta Air Lines, the green trefoil of the Girl Scouts or the fancy cur sive lettering on a bottle of Coca Cola have evolved over the years to freshen up the image, introduce the brand to a new generation and/or include new facets of the company.
In July, city staff recommended approval of re zoning areas on The Forum side of Peachtree Parkway as well as a development of the Town Center side. However, the Planning Com mission voted to recommend approval of the zoning request on The Forum side, but recom mended denial of the request for rezoning on the Town Center side. Although he’s not a member of the Plan ning Commission, City Councilman Weare Gratwick was at the meeting and had conver sations with its members and with officials at North American Properties.
Perry seemed confident that NAP and the Peachtree Corners government will find the right solution for new development. “We fo cus on places, not spaces — and community,” he said. “We don’t try to change what it is. … We just try to make it better.” He added that, in several decades, the needs and wants may be different. “One day some one is going to build something that’s better than The Forum,” he said. He encouraged city leaders to have an open mind then — like they have now — invest time and money into it and listen to what they community wants and needs. ##
“It’s a downtown that has people who are there three or four days a week. It can support the population density which, in turn, supports the boutique that sells clothes, a candle store, a restaurant — those businesses need people over there all the time. They need a lot of traf fic, a lot of energy,” said Perry. He cited Avalon as an example where, as the renters decided they wanted to be owners, a great many chose nearby neighborhoods.
In order to put in the Innovation Lofts project, which consists of apartments, North Ameri can Properties was required to seek rezoning.
For example, someone living in an apartment may come out at 6 a.m. to walk the dog and stop by a coffeeshop. Mid-mornings are time for workouts, such as Yoga on the Green or a toddler program where parents bring strollers. Around noon, nearby office workers may gath er for lunch and there are early evening gath erings and dinners out. Maybe a light night crowd stops in after catching a football or bas ketball game. “In essence, this is what we’re talking about — connections,” said Perry. “We look at our mer chandising as not just putting in a food and beverage operator or retailer, but how do we create a vision for the property?”
The city weighs in City leaders applaud the community approach to development that North American Prop erties is taking with The Forum and nearby properties. Still, they’re cautious when ap proving any development. It has to fit into the Peachtree Corners Master Plan, and it has to make sense for current needs and those in the near future.
The Forum added an event called Friday Night Live that encourages gatherings for after-work drinks with colleagues, a night out with friends and family and a little tailgating before high school football games. “Every Friday, now through the beginning of November, we’ll have the event at 5:30,” said Perry. “It’s early so that everyone can come to The Forum to hang out with their friends meet up, drop off cars pick up cars — and there’s live Thismusic!”isjust another example of turning The Fo rum into a place for “experiences.”
“It really does start with the community,” said Perry. “Despite what it had been called for 20 years, Peachtree Corners is now a city. …And it is time for us to embrace that. And that should be our identifier.”
“I think there was concern that — not so much on The Forum side, but on Town Center side — it was going back in history,” he said. “The City Council had voted to zone that property to allow a hotel and apartments to go up at the same time. …But it expired at a certain date.
“That changes things,” said Gratwick. “So, on the Town Center side, for lack of a better way of putting it, you have just an apartment build ing. And I think the concern was that there would be rental properties and no owner prop erties.”
The positives of rental properties
Young professionals, mainly single or empty nesters, deciding where they eventually want to buy a condo or smaller house are the target for those one- and two-bedrooms units.
Community mindset
On many occasions, Perry has explained his company’s rationale for putting only rental property in close proximity to The Forum. “We need to have people coming to the restaurants three or four days a week,” he said, explaining that with tenant turnover every two years or so, there will be a fresh batch of people who are more likely to eat out that often.
29 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com makers’ and got so vigilant about it, we actual ly trademarked the words ‘experience maker’.”
Once it expired, it reverted to the original zon ing, which was commercial.”
“There’s plenty of parking… We want people to come and enjoy the property. And at the end of the day, what we want more than anything is really the traffic on the property,” said Perry. The old mall concept was a variety of retail offerings and that was pretty much it, besides seasonal activities like pictures with Santa or the Easter Bunny and trick-or-treating at vari ous stores. Perry said the new way of thinking is to lure people to an event or a thing to do. If they eat at a restaurant, buy something at a store or utilize another service, it’s an organic “Wechoice.try to extend what we call the three-hour experience and make them last throughout an 18-hour day,” he said.
The plan is for apartments on the Town Center side and a hotel on The Forum side.
For example, there are fitness classes every Wednesdays through summer and The Forum is back to sponsoring the annual Light Up the Corners Glow Run, a fundraiser for the Robert Fowler YMCA that took place in Au Thegust.new logo removes the sketch of the prop erty and gives the name a slight change to “The Forum at Peachtree Corners.” When the mall was built, Peachtree Corners hadn’t yet be come a city, so logically it was named The Fo rum on Peachtree Parkway at the time — but those times have changed.
He added that NAP will invest over $450 mil lion between what’s already been invested in the redevelopment and the multifamily units that it seeks to develop. The concept of apartments in the Town Cen ter area wasn’t as popular. In the end, the rezoning request was approved, but by the narrowest margin — 4 to 3, with ‘nays’ com ing from Phil Sadd, Alex Wright and Lori Christopher. ##
After what may have been the longest City Council meeting in Peachtree Corners histo ry, on Aug. 24, North American Properties (NAP) received approval for both rezoning re quests — to add apartments and a boutique hotel to the area adjacent to The Forum and to add apartments across the street in the area at Town AlthoughCenter.a few other items were on the agenda, the lion’s share of the time was tak en up with the matter of mixed-use develop ment in what is quickly becoming downtown Peachtree Corners.
The request to rezone The Forum to accommo date residential and temporary housing gar nered the most community input, but seem ingly convinced most City Councilmembers. After nearly five hours of questions from City Council, a presentation by Perry, comments from the audience, rebuttal from Perry and further discussion by City Council, the vote passed 6 to 1 with Councilman Alexander Wright as the only ‘nay.’
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North American Properties wants to “…create a true town center around the already mag netic development of The Forum. …The acqui sition of both these sites and the opportunity to invest in such a pro-business community with leadership and vision is compelling,” said Perry. “We’ve covered this for a long time to look not just granularly at each one of these individual pieces but combining them seeking density and seeking success for both.”
There were about a dozen people who spoke out in support of the project, mainly from busi ness interests such as the Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce, the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber, Explore Gwinnett and Hargray Communications. Equally, there were close to a dozen who weren’t for the rezoning, but a few qualified their position by saying they were more on the fence than solidly against. “You could put me in the ‘maybe’ category if you had one,” said one speaker. By the time City Council was prepared for the vote, a few compromises had come about:
The second read and consideration of the In novation Lofts Mixed-Use project, a request to add 3.73 acres to the existing 20.6-acre Town Center MUD zoning district by rezoning 3.73 acres from C-2 to MUD with associated vari ance to allow for a new multifamily residential development at 4936 Peachtree Corners Circle, was a separate issue. Still, Perry stated that they were part of the same vision.
30
In the end, the vision outlined by NAP Manag ing Partner Tim Perry won over City Council. At issue was the second read and consideration of The Forum Mixed-Use project, a request to rezone 44 acres from C-2 to MUD to allow for new mixed-use development at 5131 through 5185 Peachtree Pkwy.
By Arlinda Smith Broady
■ There would be accommodations for up to two drive-thru type retailers, such as a Star bucks.
■ The number of rooms in the hotel would be between 100 and 250.
■ NAP would work out details for security and the final plans for the parking deck with the city manager or his designee. That portion of the plan wouldn’t need to come back for City Council approval.
After a lengthy City Council meeting, rezoning for The Forum and Town Center will bring about a boutique hotel and 630 one- and two-bedroom apartments.
NAP Vision Wins Over Peachtree Corners Officials
During the week end of Sept. 24-25, Downtown Duluth will host its annu al Duluth Fall Festival. The very first Duluth festival goes back to 1962, and it was a fiveweek spring festival. It has evolved in the years since to what we’ve now come to know, love and celebrate nearly every year.
31 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
Between the annual 5K Road Race, parade, Scan Our QR Code to visit websitefestivalthefor more information community worship service, full entertain ment lineup and over 300 food, arts, crafts and sponsor booths, this festival is a lot of fun — and it requires a lot of planning! Planning for this two-day festival is a yearlong process to be Theexact.festival’s successful run is accomplished again and again by a cohort numbering over 300 volunteers, making this festival the larg est volunteer-run in the Southeast, among its numerous other recognitions. Continually bringing in upwards of 100,000 attendees, the festival’s success cannot be overlooked. Volunteers, festivalgoers and sponsors of the Duluth Fall Festival are united by their pride in their city. And, to the community that they love so much, they always give back. Over the years, more than $3 million in festival dona tions have gone to beautifying and improving Downtown Duluth. Projects have included building the Festival Center, acquiring and constructing an amaz ing entrance for Taylor Park and funding an Eastern Continental Divide monument, in addition to other landscaping, art objects and renovations throughout downtown. Are you a regular festivalgoer? A new Dulu th resident? A longtime, proud citizen of this city? Read on to learn about this year’s festival.
Duluth Fall Festival September 24-25, Downtown Duluth
By Ivy Marie Clarke
This year’s festival 5K road race will take off at 8 a.m. on Sunday, Sept. 25. Check-in will occur on the Duluth Town Green 7 a.m.-7:40 a.m. Early arrivers will get to warm-up with their fellow racers Zumba-style! Beginning at 8 a.m., racers will walk or run through the streets of Downtown Duluth, finishing at the Duluth Festival Center. Registration will be available through the morning of the race, but will steadily increase in price after Sept. 15, so early registration is encouraged. Until Sept. 15, you can register for this race at duluthdonutdash5k.org for $30. Upon completing the race, you will not only re ceive personal satisfaction, a donut and coffee — provided by race sponsor Dunkin Donuts — and a commemorative long sleeved t-shirt, but also the goodwill of giving back to your com munity. Proceeds from the race will be given to Wellroot Family Services (wellroot.org), which Donut Dash 5K Ready? Set… Do-nut! assists children in foster care and families liv ing in transitional housing and works to break cycles of trauma in young lives. Interested in racing? Want to know more? Reach out to Greg Whitlock at wgwhit lock1@gmail.com. BelcherRandy
Duluth
The highly anticipated kick-off of the Duluth Fall Festival is the Festival Parade, beginning at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Sept. 24. With over 3000 participants, it is the largest in Gwinnett County — and one of the most exciting. Parade members will include musicians, classic cars, firetrucks, Boy and Girl Scouts, athletes, stu dents, local government officials and church leaders, sponsors, businesses, clowns, enter tainers, animals — oh my! Join the parade on Main Street, near Coleman Middle School. From there, it will march south through the streets of Downtown Duluth and end at Truist Bank on Buford Highway. After the parade, head on over to the Duluth Festival Center for the Opening Ceremony. There, sponsors will be recognized for their great contributions to the festival. Local dig nitaries will also be honored, including the Parade Grand Marshal and Honorary Grand ThisMarshal.year’s Grand Marshal is Randy Belcher, recently retired police chief of Duluth and 2017 recipient of the Gwinnett Cham ber 46oftitlerade’searnedBelcherengagement.munity-orientedcellenceAwardLeadershipforexincomhasthepahonorableonaccounthisimpressiveyearsofser vice that included growing Gwinnett’s police department more than five times its original size when he joined the staff in 1984, recog nition as the youngest serving Police Chief in Georgia, graduation from the prestigious FBI National Academy and his efforts towards var ious uplifting city programs and technological approaches to fighting crime. For parade details, contact Debbie Bush at debhokie73@gmail.com.
Parade
Over 160 vendors will participate in this year’s festival, selling handmade and hand-decorat ed products from home decor and jewelry to art and pastries. When you shop at the Duluth Fall Festival, you’re directly supporting artists and artisans. And with all the variety, you’re sure to find something you like!
Plan to enjoy rock, blues and jazz bands as well as Asian, Irish and Mexican dance groups both days, and make plans Sunday to kick off your afternoon with the returning, highly lauded Elvis. Acts are 45 minutes each, giving you plenty of time to learn about and fall in love with each of them.
Food Drinkand
■ Uju-Lwami Creations: Dionne Cutting creates striking, lightweight jewelry out of polymer clay that brings wearers’ colorful per sonalities to the forefront of their outfits. Visit ujulwamicreations on Instagram.
Entertainment
▼ Withrow Woodworks A family-run busi ness based out of Duluth makes beautiful, quality bowls out of handcrafted wood. Visit withrowwoodworks.com. ▲ Shweta’s Gourmet Chocolates: Bak er Shweta Bajaj combines Belgian chocolate with unique ingredients like betel nut, te quila-infused mango, rose petals and edible gold to make mouth-watering morsels. Visit shwetasgourmetchocolates.com. Elvis
GreenTownonWorshipthe
While stage performers raise the roofs of their respective venues, street performers and puppe teers will pop out all over festival grounds. Be sure to snap a picture with the festival’s scarecrow mascot — and tag us so we can see all the fun you’re having!
33 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
Although the longtime festival-classic hot dog stand was retired last year, after 30 years of serving hungry festivalgoers, stomachs will still be happily filled with this year’s new and returning food vendors.
Laura Godfrey, lauratgodfrey@gmail.com, is your go-to contact if you have questions regarding festival entertainment.
Old favorites making a comeback include Aw Shucks’s corn — on and off the cob (aw shucksroastedcorn.com), Bird’s Concession loaded up with snacks, Bonez & Gristles’ mouthwatering barbecue (facebook.com/ Bonezandgristles), authentic homemade ice cream from Country Cabin Sweets & Treats and(facebook.com/countrycabinsweetsandtreats)
Ring in Sunday morning with a community of faith. At 10 a.m. on Sept. 25, Duluth First United Methodist Church’s members, mu sicians and staff will lead a community wor ship service on the Duluth Town Green. All are welcome to partake in this peaceful activity.
Head on over to Parsons Alley to jam out to rock, Irish and folk bands and duos. The stage will pulse from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Don’t miss special performances by a Korean act and a young group from the Phoenix School of Irish Arts!
Sweet Chimney Bakery’s delectable Hungarian pastries (facebook.com/sweetchimneybakery).Mangoswillalsobeavailableforarefreshingtreat,oryoucanfeastonjalapeñocorndogstospiceupyourweekend.Taketheopportunitytobranchout, treat your palette and show some love to the new food vendors, too! Sip on nostalgia over at Old West Soda, dig into Island Jerk’s true Jamaican cuisine, offering vegan and glu ten-free options as well as traditional enjoy(facebook.com/islandjerkbrunswickga),dishesandacrispapple,courtesyof
This(jaemorfarms.com).year,you’llfind the food court behind the Mathias building in the lower parking lot near the train tracks. Annette Mcintosh can be contacted for further food-related inquiries at a_mcintosh@bellsouth.net.
Over the festival weekend, over 20 acts will provide nonstop, high energy, local entertainment on two stages. Main Center Stage has a full weekend lineup planned with acts scheduled from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Jaemor Farms
Vendors
■ The Polka Dotted Door: Darlene Ben nett’s small home decor business specializes in hand-painted door signs and door hangers in all colors and designs that will make your house really feel like home. Visit etsy.com/ shop/Thepolkadotteddoor.
■ BTC Custom Designs: You name it and BTC Custom Designs can make it with their fam ily-owned wood and metal manufacturing equip ment! They offer a wide range of products includ ing ornaments, wreaths and home decor. Visit Seekingbtccustomdesigns.com.furtherinformation on the shopping available at this year’s festival? Reach out to Beth Parmer at beth.parmer@me.com.
▲ 100%Cool Efi Designs LLC: Inga and Evija craft cool wallets, scarves and bags from upcycled fabrics. They aim to — and succeed in — spreading positivity through their wear able art. Visit etsy.com/shop/IngaAndEvija.
▲ Bella’s Elegant Designs: Pamper your pet with these luxury beds and pearl- and jew el-encrusted accessories. Visit bellaselegant designs.com.
More Information
festivalaboutinformationthe
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▲ Jodi Lynn Bows: A must-visit vendor for little girls with a big love for bows, Jodi Lynn Bows is especially popular among cheerlead ers and gymnasts. Visit eventeny.com/compa ny/?c=8104.
▲ Dream by Day Design: Artist Tina Law rence makes pottery, sculpture and fine art for home and commercial use. Natural elements, like birds and flowers, frequently appear as motifs in her work. Visit facebook.com/ dreambydaydesign.
Find the official schedule of events, sponsors and more information about the mission of the Duluth Fall Festival at duluthfallfestival.org. Tag us in your posts for a chance to be featured on Southwest Gwinnett Magazine’s social media platforms. Happy festival-going! Scan Our QR Code to find more
▲ Britts Leather Co.: A small business co-owned by a husband-and-wife duo, Britts Leather makes sturdy leather goods like hats, belts, bags, wallets and journals. Visit brittsleatherco.com.
■ Francoise Lama-Solet: Françoise uses various techniques to make her dynamic wear able and contemporary artwork, including hand-printing, hand-dyeing and hand-paint ing on high quality materials, so all her pieces are one of a kind. Click on lama-solet.com to see examples of the art. Visit lama-solet.com.
▲ Abagail West Studio: The artist behind these creations doesn’t see trash — she sees art. She salvages discarded materials into functional artwork, lending her creativity to environmental justice efforts. Visit abigail west.net. ▼YouNique Jewelry: Kristen Babay designs sparkling Swarovski crystal and pearl earrings, bracelets and necklaces to make you stand out at events. Visit youniquejewelrybykristen. com.
35 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com Where Christianauthenticmission and mutuallyexcellenceacademicaren’texclusive WHY WESLEYAN? Scan to learn more! EXPLORE WESLEYAN AT WWW.WESLEYANSCHOOL.ORG/ADMISSIONS
Movie Magic in Gwinnett
Words and Photography by Isadora Pennington
Initially, Shaw was conflicted about the con cept of closing the restaurant, even for such a short amount of time, due to the impact this decision would have on the venue’s regulars.
2021
Local restaurant sets the scene
In the show, one of the characters had their last meal at the restaurant, and the booth where they sat has a plaque on display to commem orate the iconic scene. Shaw says that seeing so many people posing with the plaque has re affirmed his decision to rent the restaurant for the production.
“Film and production crews are some of the biggest proponents of ‘buy local’ that I’ve ever seen. They are much more likely to shop local,” continued Anders. “I don’t think that people realize that in Gwinnett there is the largest TV production studio under one roof in the Unit ed States, Eagle Rock. OFS is one of the biggest hubs for film, and there are more than 300 companies that are involved in TV entertain ment and production.
The Gwinnett office processes about 150 per mits for about 50 individual productions each year. When asked about the benefit to the com munity beyond the rental rate itself, Anders pointed out that every large-scale production comes with a cast and crew that spend time in the community, shopping and patronizing lo cal businesses for the duration of their shoot.
“Stranger Things,” the “Wonder Years” reboot, “Cobra Kai,” “I, Tonya,” “Jerry and Marge Go Large,” and “Samaritan.”
“It’s a small business industry in Gwinnett; it’s how a lot of people are making their living.
37 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com was a banner year for the state of Georgia’s film and production industry. Accord ing to the Georgia Depart ment of Economic Develop ment (GDEcD) the state saw a record-breaking $4 billion — yes, that’s billion with a B — in direct spending for film and television production. Looking closer, certain com munities in the state have been at the forefront with productions taking place at local homes, businesses, greenspaces and even on major Ofthoroughfares.themajor film and production hubs throughout the state, Gwinnett has risen the ranks to become the most film-friendly coun ty. Gwinnett is the home to OFS Studios and Eagle Rock TV Studios, and has been the setting for many recognizable productions including the infamous “Stranger Things” Starcourt Mall scenes, which were filmed at Gwinnett Place Mall. Camera Ready “About eight or nine years ago, the state Geor gia Film Office — the mothership — created a program called the Camera Ready Program,” explained Lisa Anders, Executive Director of Explore Gwinnett County Tourism + Film. “It’s pretty innovative. It was to meet the demands of all the filming coming into Geor gia because of the tax incentive. They really needed people on the ground, point people who knew their county specifically so that a location manager could call one person and ask for A, B, C and D location. It needed to be someone who knew the area, knew the process and knew the people who could help make it Inhappen.”Gwinnett, that person is Anders. She is the Camera Ready representative for Gwinnett and is the point person for all productions that happen in the area. Her responsibilities include facilitating location scouts, managing the county’s database of rental locations, an swering any conceivable questions that arise during the process and relying upon her con nections to connect production crews with relevant local authorities for permitting and other Anderslogistics.works with a staff of 10 who handle tourism and events for the county. They help to facilitate sporting events, food tours, beer festivals and other special events. Running a county-wide calendar and collaborating with local businesses and organizations to schedule and promote events sets the office up to be a hub of information that is immensely useful when productions come to town. As opposed to circumstances wherein a location scout might need to make numerous phone calls and track down the owners of properties on their own, Anders and her office offer a onestop shop for productions in need of locations to Notablefilm. productions that have filmed in Gwinnett include some Marvel films, “Ozark,”
Catering, even stuff people don’t think about,” she Anderscontinued.mentioned that Lightning Rentals, one of the country’s leading trailer rental companies, is located in the area. And while the industry is booming, it is often somewhat hidden as these shows and movies have strict
“This is what I struggled with the most. We have customers who eat here once or twice a day, every day during the week. The thought of them being inconvenienced — or worse, find ing another place for breakfast — was a strug gle! So I actually asked many of them their thoughts and they all encouraged me to do it.”
One local business, JR’s Log House Restaurant, was featured in some iconic scenes in the hit show “Ozark.” Owner Tim Shaw shared his perspective of the process, noting that while he did not set out to become a location for productions, he was ultimately able to negotiate a price that suited both par “Rightties. from the start they were adamant they wanted our building,” said Shaw. “So, in June of 2019, they bought us out for a day and a half. They came back this past October and bought us out for two days to film an addendum to the first Shawscene.”recalled that the cast and crew, a team of over 100 people, were expeditious and re sponsible with the use of the restaurant. They bought out use of the restaurant for a day and a half and were able to meet their promise to vacate before the next shift.
Opposite page and this page, The restaurant where Wendy and her brother Ben (played by Tom Pelphrey) were eating in episode nine, “Fire Pink”, is the JR’s Log House Restaurant (Source: www.atlasofwonders.com, Where is Ozark Filmed? Guide to ALL the Filming Locations, 2017) (Photo right, courtesy Tom Shaw, JR’s Log House)
non-disclosure clauses and require secrecy during production.
Local benefitseconomy
And while there are plenty of logistics that have to be considered and worked around, Asef says that the benefits greatly outweigh the “Thecost.earned location fees benefit our school programs, which often provide the ‘extras’ for our students’ benefit,” she continued. “We began renting our facilities in 2010 after we opened our largest facility, the Jesse and Mar ilyn Long Forum.” The multipurpose arena seats between 2,800 to 3,400 and has been used for concerts, speakers and conferences.
of Georgia’s most significant industries are essential to that process. We’re grateful for the film industry’s expansion and the new oppor tunities it is providing our students.”
“It’s a delicate balance — and our students always come first. Our executive committee is involved with approving the Community Relations Team’s recommendations to ensure it aligns with our school’s values and doesn’t distract from our students’ learning environ Asefment.”showed
GAC President Dr. Scott Harsh also spoke to the impact of having productions take place on campus. “We strive to equip our students with the spiritual, creative and executive func tioning skills to give them the edge in emerg ing fields. These first-hand exposures to one
“Our team manages the site visits, contract details, insurance, GAC staffing, outside staff ing (like extra officers on campus), coordina tion of base camp and vehicles on campus, identification of equipment size, weight [and] placement — the list goes on and on,” Asef ex plained. “Communication with all parties is essential and a lot happens 24/7 because that is how the film industry works, and we want to accommodate their pace.”
“Honestly, we could have world peace if every one worked together like people do here,” said Anders with a laugh. She says her job is made possible by the helpful and invested people working together to make productions hap pen both at a local and regional level. “It’s not astonishing to me because that’s kind of what makes working in Gwinnett different, to me at least. Everyone kind of realizes it’s for a greater Gwinnettgood.” certainly seems to have earned itself a place among the nation’s top filming loca tions for the foreseeable future, with home owners, business owners and city officials alike committed to hosting productions in the area. Their spaces are transformed into set tings for heartwarming dramas, action scenes, romances, commercials and otherworldly ad Forventures.Anders, that’s the magic of being in the movie business. “Knowing that everything can be something else,” she mused. “That’s sort of the beauty of it; all things are not as they seem. Anywhere can be anything with enough cre ativity.”
In talking to Anders, Shaw, Harsh and Asef, one thing is clear: when done correctly, work ing with films can be incredibly beneficial both to the community and to individual business es and organizations. And it is no doubt due to the positive relationships that have been estab lished between Gwinnett’s tourism office, the Georgia Film Office and county departments, such as the department of transportation, fire and police departments and local businesses.
##
When the Georgia tax credit hit and the team at GAC realized the potential, they began work ing hand in hand with Explore Gwinnett and the Georgia Film Commission. “We’ve worked very hard earning our reputation with the lo cation managers and other film profession als, and they honor us when they return with a new project,” said Asef, taking a moment to gush over just how wonderful it is to work with Anders and her team at Explore Gwinnett.
Margie Asef, the Director of Community Relations for GAC, explained the various con siderations and coordination that goes into renting out parts of a school to productions.
“GAC always considers how to offer our stu dents exposure to authentic, real-world edu cational experiences,” she added. “Film pro fessionals have provided ‘master classes’ for our video production class, as well as allowing students to see the production set and explain the nuances of the equipment.”
Film industry gives back to students
me around the campus, pointing out locations where filming had taken place and illustrating how some of the buildings had been transformed into airports, college campuses and more. Because the school has activities from dawn to dusk, Asef and her team have to be creative in booking out spac es during alternative times that will allow the students to still use the spaces without nega tive impacts due to production.
Top left, Margie Asef Below, downtown Norcross where movies and TV shows have been filmed over the years.
38 GAC featured in film and TV Also in the area, the Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC) has been one of the most active locations for productions in re cent years. The campus boasts 90 acres and 35 separate facilities and has been the setting for around 20 regional and national commercials and film productions. Notable productions taking place there throughout the years in clude a Capital One March Madness commer cial featuring Spike Lee, Samuel L. Jones and Charles Barkley, an episode of “The Game,” plus “Fantasy Football” and “On the Come Up” which are in production now.
GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY Submissions Open 11/1/2022 https://lib.gwinnettpl.org/sff STUDENT FILM FESTIVAL Submit Films. Win Awards. Network with Industry Professionals.
The next session begins Oct. 17. Like simi lar classes, it offers in-demand skills such as learning HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, jQuery, C#, ASP.Net, Bootstrap, Express.js, React.js, Node.js, Database Theory, MongoDB, MySQL, Command Line and Git.
■ Build an impressive portfolio of web appli cations to showcase technical proficiency and problem-solving skills.
The beauty of the program is that students are allowed the flexibility of a part-time sched ule. By attending weeknight classes — three hours per class, three times a week — they can continue working while preparing for the next professional move.
By Arlinda Smith Broady
Georgia Tech Coding Boot CuriosityCampLab , located in Atlanta Technol ogy Park in Peachtree Corners, is where the Georgia Tech Coding Boot Camp takes place. With the fast-tracked class schedule, students can become a certified Web Developer in 24 Theweeks.program equips learners with the mar ket-driven skills needed for careers as Full Stack Web Developers. Students participate in engaging classes — just like any other Georgia Tech class — and master the funda mental technologies behind front end and back-end development.
“We started a pilot program and the first cod ing class filled up in a hot second,” said John Soson.Georgia Tech offered another one; the sec ond one filled to capacity just as quickly.
Having in-person classes outside of Midtown offers an opportunity for people who want the education, but don’t want the commute.
As Peachtree Corners’ reputa tion as a smart technology hub grows, so does the need for staff trained in those fields. One of the most in-de mand career titles is Web Developer. It seems that tech companies can’t hire them fast enough. To help facilitate the fulfillment of that need, Peachtree Corners has partnered with Georgia Institute of Technology to offer a professional certification program that al lows successful candidates to be job-ready in just a few months.
Curiosity Lab Resumes Georgia
■ Receive a Certificate of Completion from Georgia Tech Professional Education. Great relationship keeps growing Although the program has just been renewed this year, Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson said it was quite successful before the pandemic hit. “Georgia Tech teaching some tech-oriented classes and giving certifications in a couple of areas isn’t new for us. …Some of our partner ships with Georgia Tech predate the creation of Curiosity Lab [the three-year-old technolo gy incubator],” he said. “And by pre-date, I mean, the city created an incubator about six years ago. We actually called it ‘Prototype Prime’ at the time, and now we still have the incubator. It’s just part of Curiosity Lab. We were then — and are now — an affiliate of ATDC, the advanced technology department, or Development Center, that’s run by Georgia Tech,” Johnson Fromexplained.avision 60 years ago, Peachtree Corners has maintained that partnership with Geor gia Tech to ensure the greatest minds of the state can remain here and Georgia can grow the support staff that it needs.
…there are only three places — the Classroom at Curiosity Lab Photo courtesy of the City of Peachtree Corners
Of course, hands-on learning is a major part of instruction. Students can team up with classmates to get real-world experience, col laborate on complex projects and build ap plications that demonstrate the knowledge Additionalgained.
benefits of the program allow stu dents to:
■ Access a network of more than 250 employ ers who are seeking candidates with strong full stack coding experience. ■ Partner with Georgia Tech’s Career Services team for personalized resume support, port folio reviews and one-on-one career coach ing.
At one point, Georgia Tech had coding class es running six out of seven days at Curiosity Lab. Eventually, it became so popular that a meeting room in the new City Hall building was opened for digital analytics classes as “Iwell.believe
Tech Coding Boot Camp
Students learn web developer skills from professional, top-rated instructors without driving to Midtown.
“Before that second one even finished, they said, ‘Can we do a second coding class on off days?’ We were like, ‘Sure!” said Johnson.
41 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com 30+ Years of Helping People with their Money Take action today to help secure your financial future. Call 770.931.1414 or visit www.RogerSGreen.com and schedule a no-cost, no-obligation phone or Zoom meeting. Investment decisions Pension & retirement decision making Tax reduction & deferral advice - Harvesting Plan for retirement assets Small business financial planning Timing of Social Security Mortgage & real estate decisions IRA/Roth Charitablecontributionsgivingplanning - And much more.... We can help with the following and more: Put this team to work for you! Roger S. Green, MSFS, CFP , Andrew Green, AIF , Michael Green, CWS® All three are National Social Security Advisor (NSSA ) Certificate Holders. Whether you are just getting started, heading into retirement, or simply wanting a 2nd opinion on your existing plan, Green Financial is here to help – with no asset minimums. Their primary focus is on helping you invest with the goal of pursuing long term growth, and they have the knowledge and experience to provide guidance in most financial matters along the way. Green Financial Resources, LLC Investment Advisor Representative offering securities & advisory services through Cetera Advisors LLC, a Registered Investment Advisor, Broker/Dealer, member FINRA, SIPC. Green Financial & Cetera Advisors are not affiliated. Awards are not to be considered a guarantee of future results, nor as an endorsement by any client. Best of Gwinnett & Best of the Best winners are chosen via voting and editors’ input, & opinions are vetted with the use of other available information. Pinnacle award rankings are based on growth, revenue, community service, & other criteria. Barron’s: based on total assets (AUM), revenue, & other factors. Since 1997, office located at 3700 Crestwood Pkwy, Ste 140, Duluth, GA 30096.
As students near graduation, Georgia Tech’s Professional Ed ucation Department holds a job fair of sorts and invites compa nies in the area that need for web developers. Local companies who’ve hired from that pool of graduates include Siemens, Car max and Soliant Health. Other students use the certification to move up in companies where they’re already employed. Although there aren’t any plans on the books at this time, John son said Peachtree Corners would be receptive to becoming a satellite campus for the pow erhouse institution that has won countless technology, engineer ing and innovation awards over the Georgiadecades.Tech officials neither confirmed nor denied plans for that type of expansion, but they did say they’ve worked well with Peachtree Corners and plan to continue the current relation “Theship. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects double the national average job growth for web de signers and significant growth for software developers over the next several years,” said Dr. Ste phen M. Ruffin, associate Dean of Academic Affairs for Georgia Tech Professional Education. “Because of this high demand, those who train and retool in these areas can increase their marketability across the span of a career. Successful web devel opers are resilient problem solv ers and capable communicators. These traits are consistently in demand across all industries.” For more information on the Georgia Tech Coding Boot Camp classes at Curiosity Lab in Peachtree Corners, visit camp.pe.gatech.edu/coding.boot##
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By Arlinda Smith Broady
‘Magical’ downtown is the perfect backdrop for food, fun and art of all kinds.
42
Art Splash Returns to Historic Norcross
Although this should have been its 19th year, the Norcross Art Splash Festival will take place this fall for the 18th time. Like many commu nity COVIDgatherings,prevent ed the 2020 celebration, but organizers plan to make up for it with plenty of fun and art. For the 2022 event, the downtown streets of Historic Norcross will once again come alive with colorful and whimsical exhibitor displays in front of the enchanting downtown shops and restaurants — the perfect venue for the popular fall celebration of the arts! Splash Festivals, producers of the event, held it in Lillian Webb Park last year, but decided to return to its roots in the magical downtown “Movingdistrict. it to the park last year was a way to come back and be a little safer, and it was fine,” said Frances Schube, Splash Festi vals co-owner. “But the festival really needs the magic of downtown. It is very Americana looking. …And it really is magical — especial ly at night with the lights and the cobblestone walkways.” Cindy Flynn, Splash Festivals co-owner, and a Norcross resident, agreed. “We are so for tunate to have the ambiance and charming Americana feel of Historic Norcross, and we wanted festivalgoers to enjoy strolling along the train-lined streets. Visitors come from all over metro-Atlanta and beyond to see our beautiful town,” she said adding that the art ists love the friendly volunteers and buyers. The festival logo was created by Patti Long, this year’s featured artist from Knoxville, Tenn. She created a happy ostrich with loads of character that organizers said is just perfect for the volunteers’ t-shirts.
Norcross Elementary Art Teacher Bobbie Adamsczyk (left) with aa family that participated in Chairs for Charity
Volunteers make it happen
A lot of young people like that kind of cottage-looking style, but I still look for color, color, color!” Long’s company, Cheerful Heart Art, is all about bringing smiles to the faces of new customers and repeat fans who can’t seem to get enough of her quirky critters, add ed Schube.
really cute, and we have a booth where they sell them and they use that money to help their art departments,” said Schube.
Chairs help fund the arts and more
The entertainment will be in Thrasher Park, along with something special for the younger members of the crowd — the always-exciting Kidz Zone with thrilling inflatables and cre ative crafts. The food court and the food trucks will be at Jones Street and Wingo. The artists and ven dors will be on South Peachtree and Jones streets.
“It provides a meaningful school-community connection and is a relevant art education ad vocacy venue,” she said. “It is also a wonderful service-learning opportunity for students.”
pick-me-upPost-pandemic
Schube was concerned last year that COVID may have put an irreversible depressant on the festival. What she has seen is the complete opposite.
“Being cooped at home for more than a year made people want to get out and live,” she said. “They want fun and happiness and bright spots. It does feel good to buy some thing happy and colorful and kind of fun.”
Although Norcross Elementary Art Teach er Bobbie Adamczyk hasn’t been involved with the project from the inception, she’s been involved for the past 13 years. When a friend, who was an art teacher at the time but is now retired, asked her to help with Chairs for Char ity, her response was an immediate “Yes!”
The program has grown to become an exhibit in the Duluth Artwalk. “People get to see the chairs and it promotes what the kids can do,” Adamczyk“Itsaid.kind of empowers the kids. I’ve seen students standing there and somebody buys something they worked on. It kind of takes your breath away for a minute because they realize that somebody bought something they created and it’s go ing to be in somebody else’s home and used and seen and serve a pur pose,” she said. “That’s kind of mind blowing for somebody who’s in fifth Thegrade.”funds don’t just buy art supplies. For example, Adamczyk’s class buys clay and makes Christmas ornaments that they sell during the holidays. That money is then donated to Habi tat for Humanity to pay for a window, paint, nails — whatever.
43 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
The schools, primarily in the Norcross Clus ter, have chairs donated to them from various sources. The kids, from kindergarten to 12th grade, paint the chairs and sell them at the Art
Norcross Art Splash Festival
“TheySplash.are
Of course, a huge draw is vendors selling treasures in handmade clay, jewelry, woodwork, metal art, fi ber, mixed media, folk art, culinary treats, photography, glass — and so many unique finds.
As the name implies, volunteers aren’t paid for their efforts in money, but Schube emphasized that they really are the backbone of the event and make it such a great success every year.
“We might make $250 at the Art Splash, but that can turn into a lot more. We’ve raised over $1,500, to help buy stuff for a house that helps someone in need,” said Adamczyk. “They’re learning philanthropy; they’re learning how to be part of a community.”
“The volunteers are very loyal to Norcross and they’re almost like family,” said Schube. “They get here early, stay late and have a great time in between.” She added that what makes the event so special is the pride the res idents have in their city. That’s why she wanted to make sure the com plimentary t-shirts really fit with the energy and spirit of the festival. “I love that it’s so vibrant,” she said. “That’s typically what we look for every year, something whimsical.
Another silver lining from the pandemic is that artists were able to let their creativity fly.“I believe that a lot of them were able to amass quite a bit to sell. And a few of them exper imented with new mediums and new tech niques,” said Schube. “I think the crowds are going to really enjoy that.”
“These talented makers hope shop pers will come out and support them, as they have lots of great items to sell,” said Schube. “Georgia Grown members will showcase their goods during the weekend and customers can expect to find some real treats.”
As the chair for the Chairs for Charity event, Adamczyk said her role is mainly as a facilita tor and a liaison among the schools and with Splash Festivals. “I fell in love with it,” she said. “Anything that empowers our students and gives us an opportunity to not just get the art out there, but also give our children a chance to serve is wonderful.”
Historic Saturday,NorcrossOctober 1, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sun day, October 2, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For information, go to SplashFestivals.com.
There will also be food trucks on site serving up delicious festival cuisine. “Come hungry!” Schube encouraged.
A feature that is near and dear to her heart, said Schube, is Chairs for Charity, an exhibit of decorated chairs — and other wood furni ture — from local students who look forward each October to selling their special creations to raise money for their schools.
Arts, crafts, food and fun
Art serviceteaches
“We sell a lot of frozen items that you can’t get or can’t bring with you,” said Aguilar. “Meat pies, bangers, Bakewell tarts, Yorkshire pudding — things like Thethat.”store also has a service that can help trace ancestry through surnames. “We do what we call ‘the Hall of Names Ancestry Scroll’ where, if you’ve got a Euro pean last name, we do the certif icate site where you can get your crest and the history on your last name,” she said.
With Americans’ obsession with all things Brit ish — from The Beatles to Ted Lasso — Taste of Britain has become a destination shop for An glophiles across the country.
Don’t
Anglophiles can satisfy their passion for all things British at an Historic Norcross shop that has been around for more than 30 years.
Besides the anticipated fare, like proper English tea and the fixings for a real English breakfast, Taste of Britain offers some items from South Africa and an exclusive line of china made in England that’s not sold anywhere else in the U.S.
44
When Brit Rukhsana Aguilar and her hus band moved to the United States more than two decades ago, they settled in north Georgia and found the community friendly and comfortable.
As time went by, Aguilar, called Roxy by her friends, wanted to get away from the travel and stress of her previous profession as a corporate sales manager. So about 10 years ago, she pur chased Taste of Britain from a woman named Edna Berkshire who’d been running it for about 20 years. “It had already established a reputation, and it was in the same spot as it is now,” said Aguilar. “I came in and did some modernizing but kept the same level of customer service and the same vendors.”
Brits and Anglophiles find their destination
“There are other shops that specialize in British goods, but we hear from people all the time that they don’t come close to our selection,” said Agu ilar. “People travel for hours to get to us. We have customers that come in from North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Florida …they drive for hours. We have one lady that drives six hours to get to us.”
By Arlinda Smith Broady Photography by George Hunter Call It an Invasion
Although you could probably bring in English tea, biscuits and sweets from a trip abroad, it’s pretty impossi ble for a loaf of bread or a proper British meal to survive in one’s luggage, said Aguilar.
If she makes it to No. 75, it will be called her Diamond Jubilee; No. 80, Oak Jubilee; No. 90, Granite AlthoughJubilee.the100th anniversary is often called a centennial, experts predict that if she lives that long and remains queen, Brits will find a fancier name for the celebration of the woman who would be 127 years old.
Anyone who’s from Great Britain, had lived there for any amount of time or just wants to sample a different cuisine and find unique gifts can al most certainly find what they’re looking for at the shop in Historic Norcross.
Daughters of
Although Aguilar doesn’t sound as Cockney as Michael Caine, she’s not putting on a show to sell Atmerchandise.theendofthe day, she said she enjoys interact ing with customers and gets a special thrill when she hears someone screaming with delight be cause they’ve found an item they recalled from childhood or an exciting trip abroad.
“We do it all the time,” she said. “We had one man who was a huge Ted Lasso fan and wanted all the food that they ate on the show.” And of course, Taste of Britain was able to ac commodate him. ##
This senior citizens’ home was created for Therethem.”are no more war brides now, but the home is still in existence. It is now open to ev erybody. “But we’re still in the group, 20 years later, and we’re still raising funds for this home that we support,” she said.
If you’re not familiar with what HP sauce should go on, or what’s the proper bacon for an English breakfast or the right cakes for afternoon tea, Aguilar and her staff can help you out.
EmpireBritish
A bit of trivia Queen Elizabeth II is the longest reigning monarch in British history. Her Platinum Jubilee was the first in the nation’s history.
After moving to Georgia, Rukhsana Aguilar discovered there was a Georgia chapter of The Daughters of the British Empire, a charitable, non-profit, non-political, non-sectarian, vol untary American society of women of British or Commonwealth birth or ancestry. Its mem bers are professionals, businesswomen and homemakers with common interests and her itage, who meet regularly for business and so cial events with the common cause of philan Foundedthropy. in the United States in 1909 as the Imperial Order, Daughters of the Empire in the U.S.A., the organization became the National Society, Daughters of the British Empire in the U.S.A. in 1920.
Taste of Britain 73 S. Peachtree St., Norcross Open 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Monday-Saturday 770-242-8585, tasteofbritain.comTOB@tasteofbritain.com the
“I really love what I’m doing. There’s a sense of home for those customers that are the expats or the people that have lived in England,” she said. “There’s something comforting about being around the accents and everything you’d been used to growing up. …Bringing childhood mem ories is fun and a very satisfying career.”
Aguilar looked up Broady and found an unusual Northern Ireland coat of arms. Truly authentic Making sure that her products are the real thing is important — just as important as assuring people that she’s “the real thing.” “Sometimes people ask me if I’m faking the ac cent,” Aguilar laughed. “But it’s authentic.” She was born in South London and when she was a child, her family moved to Colchester in Essex, the oldest recorded town in Great Britain.
A fundraiser tea earlier this year in celebra tion of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee brought in 160 attendees and raised about $6,000 for the charity.
“It was originally started to raise funds for English war brides who married Americans, moved to the States and were widowed when their husbands died in the war,” said Aguilar. “So then, this wife was often left with no kids. When they got old, there was nowhere for them to go [and nobody to take care of them].
45 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
The Alliance of Norcross-Peachtree Corners helps those in need find those willing to provide.
By Arlinda Smith Broady Photography courtsey of The Alliance of Norcross-Peachtree Corners
When the Tiah fam ily’s cover.idea2020,masfirecomplexapartmentcaughtearlyChristmorningintheyhadnohowthey’dre
At the time, she was pregnant and by sheer luck she, her 1-year-old daughter Amari, who has Down Syndrome, and her husband were alerted by a neighbor and suffered no physical injuries. But everything they owned was ru ined by smoke or water.
“I didn’t want to call, at first,” Tiah said. “I was frustrated and pregnant and just wanted to lay my head down and not think about what had Herhappened.”husband Fornatee urged her to make the call. “He was right,” she said. “Once I called Norcross Elementary drive-thru
Terri Hoye, a community fixture for provid ing assistance to those in need, came by the apartment complex and gave Tiah her busi ness card.
A community ‘angel’
CelebratesNonprofitOne Year of Connections
“One of the neighbors thought it was time to do fireworks or something,” said Kporseh Tiah. “It was 3:00 in the morning, but every one in the complex was able to get out OK.”
As is its practice, the Red Cross was on hand and provided the family with a hotel room for at least a week and helped with a few items of clothing, but her family needed more help than any one agency offered.
Jones added that his organization does things that are easy to quantify. “We can have direct numbers to show our effect on the communi ty,” he said. “We’ve helped X number of fami lies, collected X amount of food, etc. But with Terri, …her capacity for relationship building and connecting people [is immeasurable.]” That’s why the service she provides is sorely needed, he added. Helping the helpers Hoye’s connections run the gamut. She not only partners with groups that are in a posi tion to give, she also has affiliations with or ganizations that need help themselves. One of her most fulfilling relationships is with Landmark Church.
Terri, she helped us with almost everything we needed — baby clothes, formula, furniture, clothes, you name it.” The family car wasn’t running and Hoye found a mechanic who was willing to offer the parts at cost and greatly reduce his price for labor. It turned out the car was pretty much beyond repair, so Hoye found someone who donated a car to the family. “The blessings just kept coming,” said Tiah. “We’d never heard of her or knew that some one was out there doing the things that she That,does.”said Hoye, is one of her biggest hurdles — letting people know that there are organiza tions providing a myriad of services for people in the Peachtree Corners and Norcross area. She can help connect those in need to those who have something to give. Although many may wonder if Hoye is an earth-bound angel, she didn’t actually fall from the sky. She’s been active in the commu nity for more than three decades. Hoye served 29 years on staff at Norcross First United Methodist Church and two years as the Nor cross-Peachtree Corners Catalyst for Unite. Helping families like the Tiahs had become her calling, so she branched out and formed The Alliance of Norcross-Peachtree Corners about a year ago. It’s a nonprofit that works with all sectors of the community to help re move barriers that prevent many community members to thrive. “As the years went by, I noticed that there was not anyone in the community to connect the dots for people,” said Hoye. “For instance, I was sitting in a school council meeting one day, and this mom, who was on the council, was just in tears because she needed her porch redone, …she’d gotten a notice from code en forcement. …And I said to her, ‘You know that the city has a Brush with Kindness program, and you just have to go on the site and fill out an application.’” It turned out the woman qualified for the as sistance that she didn’t know existed. Making the right connections To help the Tiah family, Hoye partnered with Neighborhood Cooperative Ministry (NCM) for immediate needs such as clothing and food. Her long-standing relationships with that organization, and many others in the community, allow her to immediately know who can help and in what ways.
47 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
So Hoye has become an integral part of the Landmark ministry by providing the connections. “She has provided us with just a great grid of resource infor mation,” said Campbell. “I know that if it’s not on that grid, …I can call her and go, ‘Hey, here’s the guy, here’s the need; where do we go?’ And she immediate ly knows who to talk to. …She’s kind of the face of community resources for us.”
“We partner with Neighborhood Cooperative Ministry on many occasions when working with people in our community, as they typi cally can meet the immediate emergency need for things like shelter, food, clothing, bill assis tance, as well as helping with long-term solu tions, such as obtaining job skills and finding employment,” Hoye said.
The congregation is largely made up of people who spend a lot of time on the street, so the church doesn’t have large coffers from regular tithers. “We’ve got a benevolence ministry and we’ve got the missions,” Campbell said. “We kind of direct people who come and say they need housing. Well, we can’t do any thing other than …buy you a hotel for a night, maybe on a good day.”
Hoye takes a modest salary and puts the re maining funds toward removing the barriers facing so many in the community. To keep the organization moving, The Alliance accepts do nations and applies for grants and other sourc es of funding.
For more information about The Alliance Nor cross-Peachtree Corners, go to thealliancenpc. org. Birthday celebration
Ryan Jones, director of Community Develop ment for NCM, said Hoye helped him decide how he could serve the non-profit community.
“We’re a smaller church, but we’re ac tive,” said Rev. Lance Campbell. “We feed about 100 families a month, but we’re doing it all on a skeleton crew. We just do not have the resources. We don’t have funds.”
Doing so much for so many would lead one to believe that Hoye has a huge team working with her. But, besides volunteers, the staff of The Alliance consists of one person — her.
## Fornatee
“I met Terri before I even worked at a non profit,” said Jones. “I was a banker. I was still exploring opportunities; I had figured out in my mind that I wanted to work in the non profit world, and I was kind of exploring what that would look like. Terri was one of the first people I met and she’s such a good example of helping people and bringing people together.”
To commemorate its first year, The Alliance Norcross-Peachtree Corners is hosting a Birthday Bash Celebration Luncheon on Thursday, Sept. 15, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. at Nor cross Cultural Arts and Community Center, 10 College St. in Norcross. The event is free and open to the public, but registration is required. Register by emailing terrih@thealliancenpc.org. Family Motel2Home Celebration
Duluth High School
Photography of Duluth High School images by George Hunter
“We’ve been really pleased with the way that everybody has come back with positive atti tudes and wanting to appreciate what they have,” said Duluth High School Principal Eric Davidson. “Folks appreciate being able to come to school and the things they have been able to do. …Even this time last year, our kids were still required to wear masks and things like that, so it’s been a refreshing start to the year.” As the largest school system in the state, Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) took into consideration many factors that smaller districts, and even individual schools, might not have to deal with.
With the new school year in full swing, just about every student, teacher, parent, adminis trator and com munity member is breathing a sigh of relief that much of the turmoil of the past few years is mainly in the rearview mirror. However, there are new challenges with staffing shortages and the continuation of age-old issues, such as student achievement and school safety.
New School Year Transitions
Words by Arlinda Smith Broady
Administrators use lessons from past issues to prepare
Southwest Gwinnett Magazine spoke to area educators about how they’ve overcome past obstacles and how they’re working to achiev ing great things for this year and those to come.
Transitions Seamlessly
prepare for upcoming challenges to ensure student success.
Above, School Resource Officers are Brendon Pix (L) and Tony Williams (R)
“We use the word ‘anticipation’ a lot. We try to anticipate the things that could provide challenges and prepare for those,” said Davidson. “Sometimes I laugh because people say, ‘Oh, man, you must be stressed or really worried that the kids are about to come back. It’s going to be really hectic!’ I remind them that once we get the kids back in the building, that’s when our work is actually coming to frui tion, and it actually slows down for us a little Asbit.”in most years, GCPS is fervently seeking bus drivers, substitute teachers and staff in general. This year, in particular, has been es pecially difficult for school systems across the “We’recountry.doing great. We have been fully hired since the beginning of school,” said Da vidson. “And it’s a blessing that the new leader ship that we have in the county has come along and recognized the need for schools to have some additional per Davidsonsonnel.” said that ev ery GCPS school has been allocated addi tional staff to use in ways to provide more resources for students. “We’re going to start re ally working to get on the front end of some of the behavioral issues, get on the front end of some of the interven tion issues with aca demics. We’ve done a lot of intervention here at Duluth High School with regard to when students start to struggle in class,” he said. “I tell students, ‘We care about you too much to let you fail.’” Besides getting students up to speed on ac ademics, Davidson said there is also a push toward helping students on social and emo tional levels. “There is a bunch of extra staff at the county office level …and each school has its own [Social Emotional Learning] and equi ty plan,” he added. “There is a heavy focus on pushing these concepts into the classroom, not just as a program.” Duluth High has a program called “You Mat ter” that began in 2015. Its purpose is to spread positivity around campus, to empower stu
Right, Allena Owen at the attendance desk
Cornerstone Christian Academy first day of school
Cornerstone Christian Academy house reveal
“A lot of times, that’s where it starts, you know, a kid feels ostracized,” he explained. “…If we approach people with care and love and a lit tle bit of humor, there’s a way to get people to want to engage and come sit over next to you and start a relationship there.” Davidson said he can already see positive re sults. “That’s our job as leaders and as student leaders. If we can do that, and have contact with everybody, we’ll all feel a lot better, from a safety perspective, that we’re touching every body, and that we would notice if something was off,” said Davidson.
50 dents, faculty and staff and to eradicate hope lessness on campus. “You see all over campus signs that say, ‘You Matter,’ and kids stick postit notes all over the place about things they ap preciate about each other, or their teachers or whatever,” Davidson said.
“We have a pretty large student leadership group,” Davidson said. “We worked over the summer with them here at the school and they’re learning …how to watch for these things,” said Davidson. “One of the things we asked them to do, these first few days of school is …look around for any kids that are sitting by themselves and invite them to come sit.
Custodial staff Kada Gashi Colin Creel
“Most experts agree that the pandemic is over and COVID is simply endemic now. As such, cases will rise and fall, but we will operate school as normal. The only exception will be for confirmed positive individuals whom we will offer synchronous learning, if desired, while in isolation,” said Creel. But, of course, there are always concerns in the back of one’s mind. “The events at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas were hor rific and served as a catalyst for us to expedite a long-term objective of placing an off-duty po lice officer on campus during the school day,” said Creel. “We had already planned on adding security cameras over the summer, but we felt adding a police presence was necessary after the events in Uvalde. Now we have added secu rity cameras and we have a police officer every Theday.”doors opened at Cornerstone on Wednes day, Aug. 10 to the promise of a new year.
The county is helping out a lot with counsel ors and other team members that can help troubled individuals. “I think that’s where the most bang for the buck is going to be — giving the teachers the right filters to use as they en counter student behaviors. And then the right resources when they catch something.”
Cornerstone Christian Academy “We are returning to normal with the ex ception of COVID-positive individuals,” said Colin Creel, headmaster at Cornerstone Christian Academy. The school is no longer required to share in formation with the health department, engage in contact tracing or any of the other protocols enacted during the pandemic. Creel said it’s very much an example of a school that is re turning to as close to 100% normal as possible.
The school district also provides a full-time outside psychologist to come into each school, and there are more social workers to deal with issues outside learning. But perhaps one of the most effective initiatives is having students help each other.
51 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com
Wellnessfamilies.
“To say we are excited to get back to business as usual as a school community is an under statement,” said Chris Cleveland, Wesleyan School head of school. “Our students, parents and employees have done a remarkable job weathering the past two years. Kicking off the school year with traditions we have not enjoyed since March 2020 makes this year a highly an ticipated and exciting one for our community.” To open the year, the entire student body and Wesleyan community gathered for all-school chapel and enjoyed the annual WolfTracker Kick-Off dinner ahead of the home opener for varsity football. It and all other sports, arts and service groups are back to full schedules. “Emerging from the challenges of the last two years, it has become clear to our leadership team that the pandemic has taken a signifi cant toll on the mental and emotional health of students and teachers,” Cleveland continued. “After listening to our families and employees, speaking with other school leaders and reading nationwide research on this topic, I shared with our parent community last spring our plans to increase support for student, teacher and fam ily wellness.” He noted that the school is work ing to expand Wesleyan’s counseling staff and has increased programming for students and is a key part of the programming and culture at Wesleyan, Cleveland stated. “As we move out of the pandemic, we continue to eval uate ways we can best support stu dents, parents and employees,” he said. Wesleyan School opened the 20222023 school year with a record en rollment of 1,207 students in grades K-12. This is Wes leyan’s 26th year in Peachtree Corners. School, photos by Biran L. Morgan
Wesleyan School
CALL FOR NOMINATIONS Under and their unique gifts, achievements and dreams the early potential of our youth, we want to highlight 19 UNDER 19 YOUNG ADULTS S outhwestGwinnettMagazine.com/19under19nominations2022 Visit us online for more information We invite members of the community to nominate young people (under 19 years old) who show a strong spirit and determination in their chosen field sports, the arts, music, community service, etc and have proven to be good citizens. They must reside in Norcross, Peachtree Corners, Berkeley Lake or Duluth The deadline for nomination submissions is Thursday, October 6, 2022 The 19 chosen young adults will be featured in the November/December issue of Southwest Gwinnett Magazine IN THE SPIRITRecognizingOF&Celebrating Wesleyan
2. Expertise with Essential Technology: Every day, teachers use video conferencing pow ered by Artificial Intelligence technology, digi tal document cameras, digital whiteboards and graphics tablets, to name a few. All lessons are recorded for students to refer back to later.
Regardless of how the pandemic has changed the way schools are run, many believe that it had a silver lining that forced everyone to real ize how strong, resilient and innovative they can be. To that end, GAC School Director of Commu nications Lauren West compiled a list of best practices from the past few years that have now become de rigueur.
3. More Intentional Communication: “In teractions with students are more frequent and intentional,” said Middle School English teacher Leigh Lowman. Administrators have increased transparency with parents, students and teach ers.
10. Greater Appreciation for our Teachers: GAC is more thankful than ever for the grit, de termination and passion of the wonderful teach ers and their devotion to serve and educate all Spartan students (both in person and via GAC Sync or Ethos). It’s what brings the mission of GAC to fruition. ##
6. Value for Engaging and Collaborative Learning: The pandemic forced the question, “what does it look like to be engaged in class?” and recognized that just because a student is present, it does not mean they’re engaged. Teach ers are leaving behind solely ‘teaching-by-telling’ and moving forward with engaging, hands-on experiences.
Things
Top right, GAC teacher, Soomy Sim, teaching a Middle School Earth Science class and discussing a student-created ocean floor model Above, High School collaborative working space
4. Emphasis on Parent / Teacher Relationships: Parents have a better under standing of classroom expectations and teach er roles after seeing a class on the synchronous classroom platform, GAC Sync. Even busy par ents are able to stay connected through video conferencing with teachers and live-stream per formances.
Top left, Middle School’s MakerSpace, a pre-engineering elective where students invent, code, problem-solve, and create through woodworking, 3D printing, computer programming, and other creative tools.
1. Personalized Education Experience: Differentiated instruction had been a priority at GAC for many years, but teachers and staff are now keenly aware of educating students where they are. In the future of education, a cookie-cut ter approach is no longer an option.
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5. Ownership of Learning: When students are given choices, they are more likely to take ownership of their learning, whether it be in learning style, class modality, project topic or course selection.
Keeping COVID-19from
9. Increased Cross-Collaboration: Thanks to the GAC Health Team, teachers, staff and stu dents are physically healthier. The Community Relations Team helps teachers re-imagine events outdoors or via live-stream and Administrators are now instructional technology coaches.
To many, this year feels like it’s emerging from a storm of uncertainty to a more stable, albeit daunting, world. Through everything, Greater Atlanta Christian (GAC) never strayed from its mission to promote spiritual, intellectual, physical and social growth. GAC was actually “back to new normal” last year, according to school officials. Students and staff were in classrooms and in masks in 2020-2021, but went to in-classroom with no masks in 2021-2022.
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7. Broader Scope of Priorities: “We have all taken note of what is truly important. Spending time together, worshiping together and inter acting with each other socially are critical in our daily and weekly lives,” said Middle School Ac ademic Dean Lauren Hollier. Community-wide events are being planned every month, like the Homecoming Parade and Screen on the Green. Classes take place outside in outdoor learning spaces to refresh and combat student fatigue.
8. Increased Creativity and Professional Growth: GAC has always been obsessed with finding a better way. The pandemic presented an opportunity to look deeply at all that the school is doing. Teachers are curious about new ways of teaching and assessing the outcomes for each student.
Annual safety training assures that everyone is up to speed on policies and procedures, and there are two officers on-site every day. The school also utilizes apps that allow all personnel to report an issue immediately.
53 Southwest Gwinnett Magazine | southwestgwinnettmagazine.com 3D Print Podcast Code Sew THAN MOREBOOKS See what all the library has to offer at gwinnettpl.org
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