Southwest Gwinnett Magazine - January/February 2023

SO MUCH MORE

THAN BOOKS

See what all the library has to offer at gwinnettpl.org

SPARTAN SUMMER CAMP REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 31

GREATER EXPERIENCES THAT GO BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

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Julie Davis Account Executive

Might Rockets LLC is the publisher of Southwest Gwinnett Magazine, Peachtree Corners Magazine and producer of a family of podcasts. P. O. Box 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310

Southwest

Arlinda

January

January 6

First Friday Concert — Grains of Sand

7-9 p.m.

Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross

Admission: free; reservations required

About the band: From Athens, Ga., the Grains of Sand is a seven-member band consisting of a three-piece horn section followed by lead and backup vocalist. They entertain crowds with soul, R&B and beach music and get everyone dancing. There’s additional info at norcrossga. net.

January 7

Events, concerts and theatre

January 7

Eddie Owen Presents Randall Bramblett Band

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of the show

About the artist: Georgia-born multi-instrumentalist Randall Bramblett has played on stage with Bonnie Raitt, The Allman Brothers Band, Steve Winwood and Widespread Panic. He’s also respected for his songwriting and has a successful career as front man, creating 11 albums. Visit eddieowenpresents.com for details and tickets.

January 11

Winter Cornhole League Registration

January 13

Eddie Owen Presents Songwriters in the Round

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of the show

About the artists: Matt Urbanek, originally from Texas, is based out of Atlanta and Sandy Springs; his 80s and 90s rock influences add a modern tone to his original songs. Andy Liechty and Amanda Henke, based in Duluth, are also known as Death Beard. They form a multi-instrumental duo featuring expressive harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. Philip Sanders, known for his emotive voice and haunting melodies, is originally from Belgium. He grew up in South Florida and now lives in the Atlanta area. Get tickets and more info at eddieowenpresents. com.

Wesleyan

School Family Open House

1 p.m.

Wesleyan School 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners

Admission: free; registration required

Interested parents of students in kindergarten to 12th grade are encouraged to bring their children to the open house, as it is designed with students and their families. Guests are welcome to attend the head of school’s address, tour the campus with student ambassadors, visit athletic practices, talk to teachers and coaches and experience performances by student ensembles. Register and learn more at wesleyanschool.org.

6-9 p.m.

Peachtree Corners Town Center 5200 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners Georgia’s largest and fastest growing cornhole league is back with seven weeks of fun beginning in January. CornholeATL’s winter league has four different divisions of play to accommodate all levels. Find out more on the Peachtree Corners calendar at peachtreecornersga.gov.

January 12 Septic Tanks

6-7 p.m.

OneStop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross

January 14

Songs and Rhymes

10:30-11:15 a.m.

OneStop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross

Admission: $2 for Gwinnett residents; $4 for non-residents

Children ages 8 and under get an enriching experience through music, games and oral literature, presented in English and Spanish. Learn more at the GwinnettParks.com calendar or call 678-225-5400.

January 14

Dates to Remember

January

New Year’s Day | January 1

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day | January 16

February

Black History Month

Groundhog Day | February 2

Lincoln’s Birthday | February 12

Valentine’s Day | February 14

President’s Day | February 21

March

Women’s History Month

Ash Wednesday | March 2

Purim | March 17

St. Patrick’s Day | March 17

Admission: free Adults, 18+, will learn how septic systems work and get tips on keeping them working to save money. There will also be an explanation of how the systems protect our water resources. Go to the calendar at GwinnettParks.com to learn more.

January 12

Authors and Dessert in Duluth

7-8 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main St., Duluth

Admission: free

Adults and seniors are invited to meet and talk with authors Michael Gagnon and Matthew Hild about their book, ‘Gwinnett County, Georgia, and the Transformation of the American South, 1818-2018.’ For more info, visit gwinnettpl.org or call 770-978-5154.

Eddie Owen Presents Jacob Harshman and Layne Denton

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of the show

About the artists: Jacob Harshman is a songwriter, guitarist and pianist hailing from Dahlonega, Ga., and was the 2015 Champion of EOP’s Open Mic Shootout. Layne Denton is a local storyteller, songwriter and front man for the Layne Denton Band. For tickets and info, go to eddieowenpresents.com.

January 17

MLK Day Trivia Challenge

4-5 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Peachtree Corners Branch 5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners

Admission: free

People of all ages are invited to test their knowledge and learn about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Civil Rights Movement. Players may participate in groups or as individuals. Click on gwinnettpl.org or call 770-978-5154 for more info.

January 18

Eddie Owen Presents A Night with Amy LaVere and Will Sexton

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $22 in advance, $25 day of the show

About the artists: Amy LaVere’s songs are both original and timeless, making her well known among songwriters and critics alike. She has a knack for documenting simple moments and making them riveting. Her record ‘Painting Blue’ (2019), showcasing her creative storytelling, was produced by her husband, Will Sexton. Tickets and details are at eddieowenpresents. com.

January 19

Lunar New Year 2023

6-7:30 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Duluth Branch 3180 Main S., Duluth

Admission: free

Also known as Spring Festival, Lunar New Year is the most important and most festive holiday of the year in many east and southeast Asian countries. Kids are invited to learn about the holiday and create your own bouncing rabbit, miniature origami and rattle drum to celebrate the Year of the Rabbit. Supplies will be provided. Find more info at gwinnettpl.org or by calling 770-978-5154.

January 19

Eddie Owen Presents Anya Hinkle and Lynne Hanson

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $22 in advance, $25 day of the show

About the artists: Anya Hinkle’s music is steeped in the tones of folk and bluegrass. She won the MerleFest Chris Austin Song Contest and was a finalist in the Hazel Dickens Songwriting Competition in 2019 for her song “Ballad of Zona Abston.” Lynne Hanson’s hard living music has earned her the nickname “Canada’s Queen of Americana.” She is known for her high energy, roots guitar driven live performances. For tickets and more info, visit eddieowenpresents.com.

January 20

Kid’s Night: Minute to Win It

5:30-8:30 p.m.

Lucky Shoals Park Community Recreation Center 4651 Britt Rd., Norcross

Admission: $12 for Gwinnett residents; $24 for non-residents

It’s a kids-only event for ages 7-12. They’ll enjoy a light dinner and fun activities while their parents/caretakers enjoy an evening out. Details are on the GwinnettParks. com calendar.

January 20

Eddie Owen Presents Crys Matthews

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $20 in advance, $25 day of the show

About the artist: A prolific lyricist and composer, Matthews has found inspiration in her surroundings; from driving through the Blue Ridge Mountains to the compelling and heart-breaking love story of Richard and Mildred Loving. The place for tickets and info is eddieowenpresents.com.

January 20

Yesterday – A Tribute to The Beatles

8 p.m.

Gas South Arena 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth

Tickets: $27-52

About the band: Performing the Beatles since 2001, Yesterday – A Tribute to The Beatles, tours in the U.S. and internationally. These entertainers have performed on five continents. Go to gassouthdistrict.com for tickets and details.

January 21

Sensory Sensation

10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross

Admission: $5

During this sensory exploration event, youngsters ages 2 to 6, and their caretakers, squeeze, feel, smell and make a mess with a variety of textures, objects and odors.

Go to the calendar at GwinnettParks.com for more.

January 21

Family Stories: Creating Genuine Emotions in Your Characters

10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch 5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross

Admission: free; registration recommended

Author and educator Susan Beckham Zurenda leads a hands-on writing workshop on creating family stories. Visit gwinnettpl.org or call 770978-5154 for info and to register.

January 26

Meet TV Star Matt Paxton: Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff

7-8 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch

5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross

Admission: free; registration recommended “Hoarders” star Matt Paxton will discuss ways to declutter so you can focus on living in the present. His book, “Keep the Memories, Lose the Stuff,” are available at Eagle Eye Bookshop. Find out more and register at gwinnettpl.org, or call 770-978-5154.

Crys Matthews

B2Anywhere — Dino Town

10-11:30 a.m.

Shorty Howell Park Activity Building 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth

Admission: free, pre-registration required

Early learners, ages 16 months to 4 years, and their caregivers learn about dinosaurs in a dino-themed indoor playroom. The play supports the learning of math, literacy and other skills. Get details and pre-register through the GwinnettParks.com calendar or B2Anywhere.com; call 770-822-771 for info.

January 27

Artist Reception: Winter Wonderland

6:30-8:30 p.m.

Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center 4758 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Norcross

Admission: free, pre-registration appreciated Paintings by Janina Ridgway, representing a personal journey celebrating life in all its forms, are displayed through March 2. The artist reception features a visit with the artist and light refreshments. All ages are welcome. Go to the GwinnettParks.com calendar for details and to pre-register.

January 27-28

School House Rock Live! Jr.

6 p.m.

Duluth Wildcat Theatre 3737 Brock Rd., Duluth

About the show: Based on the popular 1970s cartoons, this fast-paced musical teaches lessons with catchy tunes. The show is presented by the 9th Grade Advanced Theatre. Visit duluththeatre.weebly.com for more info.

February 1-4

Hello, Dolly!

Wesleyan School

Powell Theatre

5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners 30092

About the show: This musical follows matchmaker Dolly Gallagher Levi as she tries to find a match for miserly “half a millionaire” Horace Vandergelder. Get tickets and details at wesleyanschool.org.

January 28

Construction Conversations with Gwinnett Transportation

12-4 p.m.

4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Berkeley Lake

Admission: free, registration required

Learn about the research, design, development and maintenance of Gwinnett County roads during this open forum that highlights the successful completion of county construction projects. Lunch, lemonade and dessert will be provided. Attendees will also enjoy music and gifts. For more info and to register, visit the GwinnettParks.com calendar or call 770-8227400.

February

February 3

First Friday Concert — Myles Brown

7-9 p.m.

Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center 10 College St., Norcross

Admission: free; reservations required

About the artist: Myles Brown is a professional songwriter and guitarist from Atlanta. An elite level electric guitarist, Myles performs classical and jazz guitar, and composes symphonic music, jazz, funk, jam, dance, pop and instrumental world music. For details, visit norcrossga.net.

February 4

Storm Bugs

11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross 404-919-4022

Tickets: $5 for all ages

About the show: Author and educator Andrea Zoppo, known as Ms. Ladybug, presents a funfilled time teaching about our pollinator friends and what happens to them and other crawlies during a storm. Visit lionhearttheatre.org for tickets and info.

February 4-5

AtlantaBrickCon

Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Gas South Arena 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Duluth

Atlanta Brick Con

Tickets: $20 per day; children 2 and under, free

Join thousands of LEGO fans for two LEGO-filled days with attractions and events for the whole family. Visit facebook.com/AtlantaBrickCon for details and tickets.

February 5

Norcross City Cemetery Tour

2 p.m.

Norcross City Cemetery 211 S. Cemetery St., Norcross

Local historian Gene Ramsay leads a tour of the Norcross City Cemetery and shares the history of the town and the lives of Norcross’ founders and builders. Where do the names Buchanan Street, Jones Street, Lively Street, Adams Vineyard, Ollie Avenue and many others originate from? Have you heard of the downtown fires in 1904 and 1908, or the visitor in town who shot up the local hardware store in 1894? The tour includes those stories and many more. Get more info at norcrossga.net.

February 10

Kids Night: Pizza and Play

5:30-8:30 p.m.

OneStop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross

Admission: $12 for Gwinnett residents; $24 for non-residents

Kids aged 7-12 get a kids-only night, with pizza,

board games and brain teasers while their parents/caretakers have time to themselves. For more info, go to the GwinnettParks.com calendar.

February 11

Songs and Rhymes

10:30-11:15 a.m.

OneStop Norcross 5030 Georgia Belle Ct., Norcross

Admission: $2 for Gwinnett residents; $4 for non-residents

Music, games and oral literature is presented, for children ages 8 and under, in English and Spanish. Learn more at the GwinnettParks.com calendar or call 678-225-5400.

February 11

Eddie Owen Presents Ray Bonneville

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 day of the show

About the artist: Acclaimed raconteur Ray Bonneville recorded his first album, ‘On the Main,’ in 1992. He’s since released nine albums, earned wide critical and popular acclaim and won an enthusiastic following in the U.S., Canada and Europe. For tickets and details, click on eddieowenpresents.com.

February 17 and 24

B2Anywhere — Dino Town

10-11:30 a.m.

Shorty Howell Park Activity Building

2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth

Admission: free; pre-registration required Early learners, ages 16 months to 4 years, and their caregivers learn about dinosaurs in a dino-themed indoor playroom. The play supports the learning of math, literacy and other skills. Get details and pre-register through the GwinnettParks.com or B2Anywhere.com; call 770-822-771 for info.

February 18

Celebrating Katherine Johnson: NASA Computer

3-4 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Peachtree Corners Branch

5570 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners

Admission: free

Children will learn about the remarkable life of Katherine Johnson, one of the women at NASA, featured in the Hidden Figures story, who helped put a man in space. Visit gwinnettpl.org or call 770-978-5154 for details.

Norcross Gallery and Studios

116 Carlyle St., Norcross norcrossgalleryandstudios.org 770-840-9844

Exhibits and Events

Winter Warmth, a collaborative show January 12-February 25

Fine Art, With Love, a juried show March 2-April 15

Meet the Artist of the Month

January 26 — Chitra Ramanathan

February 22 — Larry Hall

4:30-6:30 p.m. 45 South Café, 45 S. Peachtree St., Norcross

Opportunities

Figure and Portrait Study Sessions

Tuesdays, 1-4 p.m.

Cost: $16 members, $22 non-members; package prices available

Moderators: Lynda Ellis, lyndaellis@gmail.com; Anne Emerson Hall, annehallstudio@yahoo.com

Evening Open Studio

Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m., starting February 15 Cost: $5 members, $10 non-members

Moderator: Patty Grewe-Mullins, pgrewemullins@gmail.com

Daytime Open Studio

Thursdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Cost: $5 members, $10 nonmembers

Moderator: Anne Labaire, labaireart@gmail.com

Open Critique Sessions

Mondays, January 23, February 6, March 13, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thursdays, February 23, March 30, 2:30-4:30 p.m. Saturday, February 4, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Cost: $5 cash or check

Moderator: Larry Hall, Leader, larry.hall@yahoo.com

Bring one or more works to an upbeat, relaxed, friendly discussion led by an experienced instructor/artist. Everyone is invited to contribute constructive help and observations.

Demonstration of Abstract Painting in Acrylic

Friday, January 27, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Cost: $5 members, $10 nonmembers Artist: Chitra Ramanathan, chitra.fineart@gmail.com

If a picture is worth a thousand words, a demonstration by a notably successful abstract artist will be invaluable for those curious about how to transition from painting what you see to painting what you feel.

Check at their website for class information.

February 24

Lip Sync Battle

6 p.m.

Duluth Wildcat Theatre 3737 Brock Rd., Duluth

Everyone is invited to watch the fun and vote for their favorites. Learn more at duluththeatre.weebly.com.

February 24

Eddie Owen Presents End of the Line

8 p.m.

Red Clay Music Foundry 3116 Main St., Duluth

Tickets: $25 in advance, $28 day of the show

About the band: End of the Line is an Allman Brothers tribute band comprised of six members from various musical backgrounds. Band members range in age from the mid 20s to early 40s and blend a mature sound with explosive, youthful energy. For details and tickets, go to eddieowenpresents.com. https://eddieowenpresents.com/events/eddie-owen-presents-allman-bros-tribute-endof-the-line-3/

February 24-26

Matilda the Musical

Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross

About the show: Based on Roald Dahl’s novel, Matilda the Musical is centered on a precocious 5-year-old girl with telekinesis. Get times and other info at greateratlantachristian.org.

February 25

Black Heritage Festival

1-4 p.m.

Shorty Howell Park Activity Building 2750 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth

Admission: free

Enjoy music and food and visit with merchants while learning about African American history and culture. All ages are welcome. Visit the calendar at GwinnettParks.com or call 678-277-0900 for more info.

March March 3

First Friday Concert — The Rainmen

7-9 p.m.

Norcross Cultural Arts & Community Center

10 College St., Norcross

Admission: free; reservations required

About the band: A group of Atlanta-based music veterans, The Rainmen specialize in rock ‘n roll hits from the 1960s and 70s. Go to norcrossga.net for more info.

March 3-19 Deli

Friday and Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m.

Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross

Tickets: $18, $16 for seniors and students

About the show: This is the world premiere of a new play by local playwright Diane Dexter. In 1990, the Davidson family is confronting changes. Chain restaurants are cutting into their business, the customer base is shifting, and the younger generation of Davidsons sees opportunity elsewhere. They need to decide whether to hang on, adapt or let go. Check out lionhearttheatre.org for details and tickets.

March 7

Great Women in History Team Trivia

6-7 p.m.

Gwinnett County Public Library — Norcross Branch

5735 Buford Hwy., Norcross

Admission: free

Celebrate Women’s History Month with a game of ‘Great Women in History Trivia.’ Everyone is welcome to participate and learn. Go to gwinnettpl.org or call 770-978-5154 to find out more.

■

The Rainmen

Curiosity Lab Showcases Its Place in the Startup Ecosystem

Curious Connections paired industry leaders with new entrepreneurs to create technology synergy.

Words by Arlinda Smith Broady Photography by George Hunter

The Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners recently held its first learning and development day to give startups and entrepreneurs a look at what the incubator has to offer.

Curious Connections, the Dec. 1 event, was co-sponsored by OVHCloud and T-Mobile and connected newbies with industry leaders who shared insights into all aspects of launching and developing startups. Attendees learned about Curiosity Lab’s robust resources and program offerings.

“It was kind of our kickoff to rebuilding and reestablishing the startup ecosystem and partners, and the community as a whole,” said Brandon Branham, Curiosity Lab Executive Director and City of Peachtree Corners Assistant City Manager and Chief Technology Officer. “It was really about getting all of the different innovation centers across Metro Atlanta to work and collaborate to-

gether because we all offer different things.”

With Curiosity Lab and other innovation centers each offering a unique experience for the vast community of local startups, the common goal of driving Georgia forward will be accomplished, he explained.

“From the standpoint that a rising tide lifts all boats, we wanted to kick off the introduction with a longer day,” Branham said.

The event was designed to bring resources to the startup community, and to attract entrepreneurs to a space that’s geared toward their success.

“We wanted to give them some background and information to help them as they go into this journey and learn from the past experiences of other startups and unicorns,” said Branham. “We were fortunate to have some of the panelists that we did.”

Program partners included OVHcloud, which provides startups and scaleups with free public cloud credits and technical support; Shadow-Soft, which helps growing companies modernize infrastructure and applications; and Georgia Tech’s

Advanced Technology Development Center (ATDC), which provides a unique framework of curriculum, coaching, connection and community.

Attendees also had access to Georgia Tech’s resources, research expertise and student talent and The Single Mom Network, an organization that connects single moms to the resources they need.

Showcasing help for newbies

The event started off with a panel discussion on how to build a long-term business plan and a well-rounded team. Participants heard from human resources, legal and business development industry leaders on how a strong business plan and robust team go hand in hand when launching a startup.

Branham pointed out that corporate attorney Justin Daniels sold his company for $1.1 billion. His expertise is in emerging growth and mid-

Opposite page, Driven360 Founder Mike Caudill kicks off the first panel of the day, discussing how to build a long-term business plan and well-rounded team with panelists (from left to right) Shane Matthews, Professional Advisor at ATDC; Jim Schutz, Partner at Troutman Pepper; and Justin Daniels, Corporate M&A Counsel, Blockchain, Cybersecurity at Baker Donelson.

Above, Strategy and Partnership at Pipedream Justin Robinson (pictured right) expands upon how startups can make the jump to the revenue phase, joined by (from right to left) Co-Founder and President at ITAD Tech Andrew Armour, Shadow-Soft EVP, Strategy and Innovation Kurt Baumberger and moderated by Driven360 Account Supervisor Kelsey Neely.

As the quarterly sessions progress, they will dig deeper into some areas of interest that were touched on during the December event’s panel discussion. Branham said that there will also be focuses on other important topics like ‘What is customer discovery?’.

Taking companies to the next level

The old saying “If you build a better mousetrap, the world will beat a path to your door,” doesn’t apply in modern times. Today’s entrepreneurs must discern whether their product or service is a good fit for the market, and decide where the right customers are.

“Once you say, ‘Hey, I have this idea,’ how do you find that customer base, and what’s their approach to that?” said Branham. “So, really going deeper into those individual conversations is one thing we’ll do moving forward.”

Branham mentioned other changes in coming months, such as more networking aspects, smaller roundtable conversations and a round-robin approach where attendees are not sitting next to the same people throughout the entire session.

“In the end, the resources and the right coaching mechanisms will get startups through those stages of growth. And that’s really the support system we can bring,” Branham said.

dle-market technology companies throughout the world.

“To have someone like that volunteer his time and experience is just incredible,” said Branham. “I think for the community to be able to have someone like that to learn from, and then have many others at his level of expertise covering different topics …is the kind of educational approach that helps startups.”

He added that it was also a boon to have Shadow-Soft, known for helping companies grow and scale as they build, as well as OVHcloud’s new startup program to assist startups through mentorships. The Single Moms Network, with its program focused on getting single moms certified and ready for job placement, was also on hand.

The next Curious Connections event is tentatively scheduled for March.

He added that another feather in the Curiosity Lab hat is the long-standing expertise at Georgia Tech’s ATDC, with access to classes and growing partnerships that will provide infrastructure for expansion. A prototype lab and a system to scale models from a university setting to a larger city are among the components offered.

Although Curiosity Lab has been around for three years, it’s now realizing its full potential. The December event was a way for Peachtree Corners and Curiosity Lab to show their support for Atlanta’s startup ecosystem.

“We’re showing that Curiosity Lab and Peachtree Corners want to be part of the wave that is starting to help that new generation of startups that are going to become those next big companies,” Branham said. ■

Select Theatres & Streaming Tickets & Information: AJFF.org

County Leader Predicts Continued Prosperity for Southwest Gwinnett

Gwinnett

Chamber President Nick Masino cited diverse population, quality workforce, desirable quality of life as factors that attract businesses.

Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

lthough Nick Masino, president and CEO of The Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, isn’t shy about being a graduate of The Ohio State University, he’s proven many times over that Georgia stays on his mind — especially Gwinnett County.

His role in the Chamber has helped Gwinnett achieve five-star accreditation from the US Chamber. This achievement is bestowed upon organizations that rank among the top 1% nationwide for best business practices.

That means that Masino and the Chamber are good at their job of touting the outstanding economic development opportunities in the state and the county. Masino never tires of explaining why Gwinnett County is expected to double

Aits population in the next 20 years.

He also shares how area leaders are working to make sure the growth is beneficial to those who live here now and those who will eventually call this part of the world their home.

Masino spoke at the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce’s First Friday breakfast in December to give an overview of the successes already taking place in the region and a forward look at the developments on the horizon.

Path to community service

Masino kind of fell into community development 25 years ago when he got a notice that a rezoning plan was being discussed for property across from his home in Suwanee. He attended the meeting and realized how important resident voices are in the building of a neighborhood — and an entire city. Instead of just showing up for controversial topics of discussion, he

began attending every meeting to learn more about his community.

“I didn’t have an axe to grind, and I was interested in running for office,” Masino said. “When they realized that, they asked me to apply for a position on the Planning and Zoning Board of Appeals.

That led to a stint as the youngest mayor in the state’s history — the record has since been broken — and his circuitous route to his current position heading the largest individual civil service organization in the country.

“I just got engaged in the community. I loved my time serving as mayor of the city of Suwanee. I did it for eight years,” Masino said. I’m proud we had 15 acres of parkland when I started, and we had 350 when I left. There was no identifiable downtown and we built one in the town center.”

When asked about future trends for 2023 and beyond that will impact Southwest Gwinnett, he mentioned the Intuitive Surgical headquarters move to Peachtree Corners. “It’s going to

Nick Masino (red tie, center) with members of Southwest Gwinnett Chamber

affect this area; it’s going to flow over into Sandy

Award recognizes government efforts

Masino added that in November, Intuitive, Gwinnett County Government, City of Peachtree Corners and Partnership Gwinnett received the Large Community Deal of the Year Award at the Georgia Economic Developers Association Annual Awards.

The Deal of the Year Awards recognizes outstanding achievements in new business expansion or relocation that have significant community support and meet economic development goals.

Intuitive, a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and a pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery, announced in 2021 that its expansion in the city of Peachtree Corners would include a $500 million capital investment and 1,200 new jobs. The company expects the campus expansion, which includes new construction and renovations with engineering, manufacturing, office and training space totaling more than 750,000 square feet, will finish in the next few years, according to a press release.

“This project has a meaningful impact on our community,” said Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson in a written statement. “It positively benefits and supports our diverse residents and educational institutions, as well as fosters innovation that changes the world.”

Intuitive currently employs approximately 180 professionals and plans to hire for a variety of high-paying jobs, as well as collaborate with local elementary, secondary and tertiary educational institutions to support curriculum in artificial intelligence and science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

Partnership Gwinnett managed the project in collaboration with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Metro Atlanta Chamber, Gwinnett County Government, City of Peachtree Corners and Georgia Power.

Partnership Gwinnett, a public/ private initiative, drives economic prosperity by attracting, expanding and retaining quality businesses; aligning and developing diverse talent while contributing to the exceptional quality of life in Gwinnett County. Since 2007, the organization has contributed to more than 32,000 new jobs and $3.7 billion in capital investment.

Southwest Gwinnett benefits businesses

“Why did they choose Peachtree Corners?” Masino put the question to the audience.

He pointed out two major factors that keep businesses coming to Southwest Gwinnett:

■ The area already had proven successful for Intuitive for about a decade. Great relationships with local and state government, a compatible work force and a robust community with good schools and an exceptional quality of life demonstrated how expanding the operation would be a wise decision.

■ The area has diversity. “We are in the Census estimates of this year as the fifth most diverse county in the United States,” said Masino. Although the population isn’t quite at a million people, it’s a mix of many races and ethnicities.

“When we go to recruit, retain and expand businesses outside of Gwinnett, outside of the region, outside the state and outside of the country, we say if you bring your business here, or if you want to try a new division, you want to hire at a new product or service and you want to test it here, we’re what the rest of the United States will be in 20 years. And if you’re successful today, you have a chance to be relevant the next 20 years.”

With about a quarter of the residents having been born outside the U.S., Gwinnett has many languages, customs and points of view that are compatible with an international outlook.

Although he didn’t bring a crystal ball with him, Masino predicted that Southwest Gwinnett will continue to prosper and set an economic example for the rest of the region as well as the rest of the country. ■

3 Tips for First Time Business Sellers

You’ve made the decision to sell your business. Congratulations. We’ve got three suggestions to help you navigate this life-changing decision and to ensure that the experience is a profitable one. After all, it’s important to set yourself up for success when it comes to selling your business.

Tip #1

Don’t neglect your business during the process - You need your business to continue generating a profit—not only for your financial benefit as the owner but also to entice a new owner. Selling your business is an opportunity to generate a return on the time and money you’ve invested.

Tip #2

Keep your sale confidential - Many first-time sellers think the best way to sell their business is to advertise the business is for sale. The reality is the wrong tactics can trigger many negative reactions from your clients and suppliers.

Tip #3

Take the first buyer who inquires, but not necessarily the first offer - Don’t get offended by the first offer. Many business owners reject the first offer when they should negotiate acceptable win-win terms for both parties. The first buyer is often the right buyer.

ANN BARHAM ABarham@tworld.com

KARL BARHAM KBarham@tworld.com

At Transworld, our advisors are some of the most sophisticated and experienced in the industry. Our service, dedication and drive are your guarantee that if you are prepared to sell your company, we are ready to sell it for you. Explore your options by giving us a call 770-766-9855 or email atlantapeachtree@tworld.com today!

PCBA Presents Donations to Three Local Charitable Groups

Paint Gwinnett Pink, A. Worley Brown Boys & Girls Club and Corners Outreach each receive $4,000 checks.

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) awarded $4,000 checks to three area charity organizations in November and December.

Paint Gwinnett Pink was presented with the check at the November PCBA Business After Hours Speaker Series. At the November 2022 Business After Hours networking event, a check was given to the A. Worley Brown Metro Atlanta Boys & Girls Club. And Corners Outreach received its check at the December Year End Celebration.

PCBA President Lisa Proctor said that the PCBA was proud to present the checks to the three charities. The money was raised for the organizations through the PCBA’s annual charity event.

“With the PCBA celebrating our 10 year anniversary, we are more committed than ever to find ways to engage and bring our community together in a meaningful way,” Proctor added.

About the organizations

Paint Gwinnett Pink is an annual 5K walk/run event with one main mission: helping people in the community who are facing a breast cancer diagnosis by raising awareness and funding the best care possible for cancer warriors in our community.

The walk/run event is the largest breast cancer 5K in Gwinnett County and a celebration of survivorship that raises awareness and funds for breast cancer programs at Northside Hospital Gwinnett. The PCBA also participated in the 2022 race/walk with their Team PCBA.

The Boy & Girls Club of Metro Atlanta has 26 Clubs located in 11 counties across metropolitan Atlanta and serves nearly 8,000 kids and teens each year. During critical non-school hours, the club offers youth development programs that promote academic success, healthy lifestyles, character and leadership.

The mission of Corners Outreach is to equip metro Atlanta’s underserved students of color and their families to lead full lives through educational development and economic opportunities.

About the PCBA

The PCBA is a business membership organization focused on innovative approaches, programs, shared resources, community outreach

and opportunities for member businesses and professionals to connect and prosper.

Funds for the PCBA Community Outreach program are raised throughout the year from PCBA membership, sponsorship and the association’s annual charity event. Donations and

scholarships are awarded at PCBA’s monthly events.

For more information, visit peachtreecornersba.com, call 678-969-3385 or email membership@peachtreeba.com. ■

Paint Gwinnett Pink

Left to right: Toby Anderson, PCBA Board; Michael Pugh, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert, PCBA Board; Cindy Murphy, Paint Gwinnett Pink; Dr. Kimberly Hutcherson, Northside Hospital Cancer Institute; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Jennifer Griffen, Paint Gwinnett Pink; Bobbie Menneg; and Donna Linden, PCBA Board.

Boys & Girls Club

Left to right: Carolyn Rehling, PCBA Outreach; Michael Pugh, PCBA Board; Jessie Douglas, Boys & Girls Club; Lawrence Mims, Boys & Girls Club; Monte McDowell, PCBA Outreach; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert, PCBA Board; and Donna Linden, PCBA Board.

Corners Outreach

Left to right: Monte McDowell, PCBA Outreach; Carolyn Rehling, PCBA Outreach; Donna Linden, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert, PCBA Board; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Larry Campbell, Corners Outreach; Matt Childs, PCBA Board; Toby Anderson, PCBA Board; and Michael Pugh, PCBA Board.

A Summer of Wonder in Gwinnett County

Summer camp registration is already starting.

Words by Kelsey Asher

cost of Charlie Camp (for serious students seeking to begin preparations for private pilot rating) is $375. A $50 non-refundable deposit (applied to the total) is required at the time of application, to reserve a spot in the camp of your choice. For more information, visit eaa690.org/summer-camp.

Club SciKids — Gwinnett

Club SciKids Duluth location is located at Notre Dame Academy. The address is 4635 River Green Pkwy., Duluth, Ga. Club SciKids will have four weeks of fun-filled day camps at their Duluth location, starting on June 12, June 26, July 10 and July 17. The themes differ each week and are tailored to specific age groups. The three age groups served are grades PKK, 1-3 and 4-7. These are all fiveday camps which cost $349 per child, unless otherwise specified.

he summer sunlight returns and with it, our favorite summer camps! It’s best to book early for the best prices and to reserve your spot, so use this handy guide to make it the best summer yet for your kiddos!

YMCA Camps

Day Camps — The YMCA offers day camp programming for many of its Metro Atlanta locations throughout the whole summer. There are camps offered for a wide range of ages and special interests, such as sports, Leadership

Tin Training, traditional camps and themed add-ons. The camps are open to non-members, but members get a discount. Visit the YMCA Activity Finder to explore options at tinyurl.com/ycampfinder.

Away Camps (Camp High Harbor) — YMCA Camp High Harbour offers overnight summer camps, day camps and more at two beautiful camp locations on Lake Allatoona and Lake Burton. At YMCA Camp High Harbour, campers forge friendships, strengthen confidence, sharpen character and create lasting memories. YMCA camp allows children to escape their screens and everyday stress to just enjoy the great outdoors. Learn more at ymcaatlanta.org/camp/ymcacamp-high-harbour.

EAA Aviation Camp

Time to fly high! Experimental Aviation Association (EAA) Chapter 690 offers an immersive aviation-focused STEM program in their chapter hangar, located at the Gwinnett County Airport in Lawrenceville, Ga. The 2023 camp runs June 12-16, with a free Young Eagles flight on Saturday, June 17.

The age ranges for the camp groups are from 7th to 12th grade. Topics covered include Aircraft Construction Methods, Principles of Aeronautics, R/C Modeling, Helicopter Flight, and Ground and Flight Instruction. There may also be possible visits to select facilities located at Briscoe Field.

The cost for the week is $300 for the Alpha and Bravo Camps. The

The camp themes offered for grades PK-K are Jurassic, Little Scientist, Little Maker, Little Engineer, Little Space Explorer, Little Coder, Little Chemist and Little Robot Engineer. Grades 1-3 can participate in American Doll, Beginning Minecraft, Advanced Minecraft, Junior Scientist, Makebot, Grossology, Junior Robot Engineer, Junior Paleontologist, Junior Entomologist, Marvel Movie Maker and Pokemon Professors.

Grades 4-7 get to delve into more advanced topics with American Doll, Emergency Vet, Nintendo Labo, Wizarding World, Master Minecraft Java Coder, Special Effects/Zombie, Great Master and Advanced Lego Robotic with Spike.

For all Atlanta location options, visit atlanta.clubscikidz.com.

EAA Aviation

Wesleyan School Summer Camps

January 2023 marks the beginning of registration for Wesleyan School’s Summer Camp programs. Rising Pre-K kids are eligible for Junior Wolves General Day Camp. Rising K to 4th graders can join in academic camps, day camps and enrichment camps. Rising 5-8th graders have more choices, with academic camps, athletic camps, enrichment camps and fine arts camps. Take a look at wesleyanschool.org/programs/summer-camps for more info.

University of Georgia Summer Academy Camps

Summer Academy at the University of Georgia brings an exciting series of STEAM and career-prep summer camps in Athens for middle and high schoolers who crave amazing things. Whether your child has always dreamt of becoming a doctor, scientist or artist, they have the perfect summer camp to encourage it. The camp mission is to provide kids with an unforgettable summer where they can learn new skills and apply them to future career goals.

There are six available camp weeks, beginning June 5 and ending July 21. A sampling of compelling camp themes includes Jewelry Making and Metalworking, Zoology, Advertising and

Public Relations, American Sign Language, Broadcast Journalism, Fashion Design and so much more. Visit georgiacenter.uga. edu/youth/summer-academy#courses for the full list. Registration opens Wednesday, January 11 at 10 a.m.

Greater Atlanta Christian School Summer Camps

The 2023 camps will run from June 6 to July 29, with seven weeklong sessions available. The age range for the camps, as a whole, is 5-18. Over 30 specialty camps are offered, as well as weekly field trips and the option of extended hours of 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Go to greateratlantachristian.org/ campus-life/summer-camp/summer-camp for more detailed information on dates and cost.

Grow Day Camp

Summertime holds so much potential, so make sure your child doesn’t waste it in front of a screen. Children will enjoy time on the beautiful GAC campus with top-notch camp staff. Campers will engage in a variety of activities — from soccer and flag football to jewelry making and cheerleading — in addition to daily pool time and weekly field trips. Each week is a little different, just to keep things exciting. New this year is the GAC clubhouse, where campers will enjoy casual games of ping pong, air hockey, board games and arcade-style basketball. Regular camp hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., though before and after extended hours are available.

THRIVE Day Camp

THRIVE camp is tailored for rising 6th to 8th graders, and will convene separately from GROW

campers. Middle school is a uniquely different time, so GAC created a line-up that suits the specific needs of this age group. Activities, scheduling, field trips, choice opportunities and even leadership are carefully selected. Get tweens off their phones — but rest assured that they will be among their peers engaging in real relationships and wholesome fun while enrolled in a robust camping program. Several different local ball games, an indoor skating party and a trip to the movies are just some of the field trips planned for maximum adolescent appeal.

Pinecrest Academy Summer Camps

Pinecrest Academy has been hosting Summer Camps for more than 20 years. Besides being fun, the camps build virtue, confidence and friendships while teaching new skills in a safe and loving Christian environment. The camps are designed for children ages 5 and up. Camp themes on offer include Culinary Arts Camp, Spanish Immersion Camp: African Safari, Spanish Immersion Camp: Space and Planets, Spanish Immersion Camp: Pirates and Mermaids, Paladin Basketball Camp, Pinecraft: Pinecrest Minecraft Camp, Soccer Camp, Spirit Club Camp, Sports Camp, Middle School Volleyball Skills and Summertime Fun Camp. Go to pinecrestacademy.org/campus-life/summer-camps for dates and information.

In the City Camps — Sandy Springs

In the City Camps is a Jewish day camp like no other, for boys and girls entering K to 8th grades. This day camp offers a unique opportunity for your child to interact with kids from all over the Metro Atlanta area. Six bus stops will bring campers to the camp location, The Weber School, 6751 Roswell Rd., Atlanta, Ga.

The full summer’s camp runs June 12 to August 4. Each camp day is from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. The Kids’ Camp is for rising Kindergarten through 5th grades, and the Tween Academy is rising 6th, 7th and 8th grades. Registration opens Sunday January 8 for all families. Check out inthecitycamps.org for more details.

Wesleyan School

Greater Atlanta Christian

International Academy STEAM Summer Camp

For Christ-centered programming with daily Christian-centered worship, Still Waters in the place to be. For children in rising 1st to rising 6th grades, there are seven weeks of themed STEAM activities planned. They include learning courses that teach students about STEAM and life skills, as well as field trips to local attractions and relevant fun-themed activities.

The seven themes offered are Adventurous Astronauts, Creative Coders, Astonishing Architects, Clever Chefs, Versatile Veterinarians, Exciting Engineers and Super Scientists. Weekly tuition is $225, not including the one-time registration fee of $75 dollars. The daily camp rate is $60 per day. Sibling discounts are available. Head to stillwaters.academy/steamcamp/ to learn more.

Woodward Academy Summer Camps

Woodward Academy Summer Camps offer enrichment, athletic, academic and activity camps which are open to the public. Your child will be immersed in a oneof-a-kind summer experience from the moment they arrive.

They offer full-day camp — Odyssey Day Camp, daily 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.) and after-care — WACtivity Camp options daily, 1-6 p.m. or 3:30-6 p.m. — to help meet your needs. Registration for weekly camps closes at noon on the Thursday preceding each camp.

There are two camp locations, the main Woodward Academy campus located at Rugby Ave., College Park, Ga., and the North Campus at 6565 Boles Rd., Johns Creek, Ga. Note that the main campus caters to Pre K to 12th grade while the north campus only takes Pre K to 6th grade. More information can be found at woodward.edu/ summer/camps.

Safari Camp at Zoo Atlanta

Get wild! Registration for the 2023 Summer Safari Camp will open January 27. From pandas to parrots to pine snakes (oh my!), young explorers will be immersed in hands-on learning in a fun and safe environment.

Camp Rockmont

Camp Rockmont is a Christian summer camp for boys, located in the mountains of North Carolina, that focuses on growth in self-confidence, independence, leadership ability and character. Young men come to Rockmont to have fun, make friends and grow as individuals.

Each age group and tailored program is designed to build confidence and self-sufficiency as well as a sense of community, as well as many skills and activities that campers enjoy, including adventure trips, free swim, arts and sports. Information is at rockmont.com.

Zoo Atlanta’s Safari Camp: Summer Session a perfect summer break experience for children ages 5 to 14. Select an individual week that fits in your summer plans or let your kids spend the entire summer at the zoo. Upcoming dates are May 30 to July 28. Camp hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m., with drop-off beginning at 8:30 a.m. Extended care is available for $75 per week (8-8:30 a.m. and 4:30-5 p.m.)

Examples of the types of camps offered include Wild About Wildlife, Animal Care Specialist and Junior Rangers. Journey to zooatlanta.org/program/summer-camp/ to get more details. ■

Take Flight

with

Aviation Summer Camp

Open to youth ages 12-18. A one-of-a-kind experience with an introduction to all things aviation with hands-on projects and experiences. Aviation Summer Camp’s professional pilots, engineers and educators provide a rewarding experience for any youth interested in aviation.

Roberts: SummerCamp@eaa690.org

STEM

Camp Rockmont

Peachtree Corners and Curiosity Lab Support the BiblioTechs, First Lego League Team

In early September, Peachtree Corners was contacted by Gwinnett County Public Library Learning Lab Specialist Patrick Sturgill, inquiring about a tour of the Curiosity Lab for his First Lego League Team, the BiblioTechs. The BiblioTechs FLL Team is comprised of homeschooled students from across Gwinnett County and meets at the Suwanee Public Library.

The BiblioTech team includes students Zakiya, Nico, Maggie, Evan, Liam, Joshua, Bella, Ildikó and István. Team coaches are Patrick Sturgill, Jeff Poole and Zach Barthlow.

The tour request came on the heels of the library program conducted by City of Peachtree

Louis Svehla in July. The program provided Peachtree Corners Library staff with tours of the Curiosity Lab as well as an in-library presentation to the facilities youth members.

Corners

The reason for the request? Every year FLL teams across the world are challenged to find real-world problems and create innovative real-world solutions to those problems. So, what better thing to do than tour the Curiosity Lab and immerse the students in real-life technology?

Svehla conducted tours for the coaches on September 14, and for the full BiblioTech team on September 30. Following the tours, the students began developing ideas for their FLL competition based on the technology they had seen and narrowed down their ideas to three topics.

Communications Director

On November 9, the team visited the Curiosity Lab and met with Svehla to discuss their ideas and determine a final competition project.

STAR Wear VMS

Following the discussion, the team landed on a project entitled the Seeking and Tracking AR Wearable Vegetation Management System, or STAR Wear VMS. The project focuses on creating an environment to assist utility workers by providing an increased vision of potential hazards in the power grid.

The team worked for weeks to prepare for their first round of the competition which was held on December 10. The competition included the presentation of the project, as well as the creation of Lego robotics that the team used in the Robot Games competition.

At the competition, the BiblioTechs presented STAR Wear VMS.

STAR Wear VMS is a new databasing and augmented reality (AR) system that can find and track issues for utility companies. It connects drones with light detection and ranging technology (LIDAR) to map out and track issues along power lines and around green electrical boxes.

Drones routinely fly in pre-mapped areas and update a tracking system that is used by utility workers to repair any issues. When issues arise, such as power outages, the drones are used to send information back to headquarters quickly and efficiently.

On the ground, linemen and other workers can connect to the system using wi-fi connected AR glasses and peripherals to view information about poles, vegetation, underground infrastructure and issue management. The system provides easy calculations, instructional information and markers to the workers.

Real-time data is uploaded to the system for supervisors and leadership to view, consider and strategize. The technology creates a loop that ultimately helps workers identify, seek, track, respond to and repair issues.

Success“The kids had a ton of fun, and the competition was a huge success,” said Sturgill. “As a result of their presentation and robot competition, the BiblioTech team won the Robot Design Award and a spot in the second round of the competition on January 28 at Trickum Middle School.”

Sturgill thanked Peachtree Corners and Curiosity Lab for welcoming and supporting the team of students.

“It is so amazing to watch how these students took the things they saw at Curiosity Lab and used them to create such an amazing and innovative project,” said Svehla. “I cannot begin to explain how proud we are of these students and how honored we are to be part of their program.” ■

Norcross Prepares for Population Growth

Several housing developments at multiple price points will spur retail and commercial expansion.

Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

By now, just about everyone in Gwinnett County has heard that the county population is expected to double in the next 20 years. By U.S. Census estimates, it is pretty much at one million people right now.

What many don’t take into account is that the cities within the county are growing, too. Norcross is expected to grow at a rate 4.49% each year. So, if you take the Census count of 17,692 for 2021 and calculate that expansion rate for every year, there will be about another 5,000 people in the city in just five years.

Plans to accommodate a range of residents

It’s a long process to develop residential properties, and Norcross is working to prepare for its future growth. With the surge in mind, it began planning years ago for housing needs. Like nearly every other city in the country, of-

Clockwise from left, The Brunswick, Broadstone Junction and Gateway to Norcross — Jimmy Carter at Peachtree Industrial Boulevard

ficials are doing their best to keep up with the demand.

William Corbin, Norcross Economic Development Director, said he sees housing as an integral part of creating a community.

“Here in Norcross, we strive to have a variety of housing types and price points. That’s part of what leads to a healthy community,” he said. “You don’t want everything to be too expensive or everything to be at the lower end. You want a variety, because there are a variety of people and you have a variety of jobs and a variety of wages.”

So, the city is setting about making changes. In November, the Georgia Department of Community Affairs granted $27,980,800 in 9% Housing Tax Credits to construct or preserve 28 affordable rental housing developments, including two locations in Norcross. Walton Communities and Blue Ridge Atlantic Development were both awarded $1,150,000 and will accommodate low-cost living for families, seniors and individuals in need of supportive housing, according to a press release.

The nearly $28 million in Housing Tax Credit awards will generate approximately $360 million in private equity contributions. The equity, in turn, will fund the construction or rehabilitation of 1,688 units affordable to lowand moderate-income Georgians earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income, the release noted. In addition to the tax credit-funded units, 89 market-rate units will be constructed or rehabilitated to produce mixed-income developments.

The development is still in the site planning stage, but it will eventually be three buildings in two phases that will provide up to 180 residences, according to city documents. The project, a joint development of Norcross Housing Authority and Walton Homes will provide much-needed affordable housing.

Across the country, many past programs of low-income housing resulted in an increase in vandalism and crime as well as a sort of poverty pit for residents. Corbin said that kind of outcome won’t happen here.

“I think a lot of what people fear comes from bad management. I think that if you have good development partners who are in it for the long term, and not just to flip it, and they understand about affordability and maintaining affordability, that’s not an issue,” he said. “We’ve got some great development partners here.”

As part of the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing, this development will have a threeyear program of collaboration and technical assistance related to housing and community development. The objective of the initiative is to help communities create and launch a locally based plan to meet their housing needs.

“These companies have been doing this long enough and have a proven track record,” Corbin explained. “They have the good building practices and good management.”

A variety of housing units

In order for the city to thrive, it needs housing at all price points.

“Over the last three to five years, we probably had more than 1,000 residential units, whether it be multifamily or single family or townhomes, be completed. And I think that was necessary to be successful in our current phase,” said Corbin. “In the near future, we’re looking to improve and build on the quality of life experiences.”

Nearly a half billion dollars in residential investments came online from 2020 through this year, adding to the city’s housing mix.

“We are no longer that ‘hidden jewel’ north of Atlanta,” Mayor Craig Newton declared during the construction phase. “The word is out, and we are working keep up with the ever-growing demand for housing in our area. We have more than 900 new residential units under construction throughout Norcross.”

Those developments are now ready for occupancy. They include:

The Brunswick, by Gateway Ventures, is a $40 million project. The development was completed in Fall 2020 with 193 units, nine of which are live-work units.

The Broadstone, by Alliance Residential, is a $100 million project. It was completed in Spring 2021. It contains 354 units; 200 of them are modern flat-style apartments, 90 are industrial-style lofts and 64 are townhomes.

Other projects include Bromolow Park, with 70 units off Buford Highway, and Pinnacle Townhomes, with 24 townhomes off Pinnacle Way. A second phase of Sierra West brings 14 units and there is a new development of five units at 370 Thrasher Street. Also, a multi-family development is under review at Jimmy Carter and Peachtree Industrial.

Adding to quality of life

Along with the housing, Corbin stressed that it is important for residents and visitors to have access to restaurants, entertainment and a variety of shopping and other things to do.

“We have been courting that kind of development,” he said.

Retail and commercial development is happening along the south end of the city, where the growth is headed. Corbin cited the Crowne Plaza Hotel and Refugee Coffee, along with a new microbrewery coming to College Avenue. There is also a restaurant and chef start-up kitchen on Buford Highway among the upcoming developments.

As the residential growth continues, Corbin anticipates more places for work and play.

“We’re trying to help bring new quality of life and …new and exciting establishments that we know that our residents would love,” Corbin said. “And you’ll see some developments and residential development continue to happen.” ■

Norcross Residential Development Projects

Completed

Broadstone Junction

Alliance Residential 354 apartment units

The Brunswick Gateway Ventures 193 apartment units

Pinnacle Way Yost Communities, Inc. 24 townhomes

Nearing Completion

Old Norcross Estates — North Peachtree Miller Lowry Developments 14 single family homes

Seven Norcross — Thrasher and West Peachtree

Seven Norcross New Construction 100-plus unit mixed single family detached and townhome concept community

Under Construction

Gateway to Norcross — Jimmy Carter at Peachtree Industrial Boulevard FIDES Development 144 apartment units

Site Preparation Stage

Prose at Giles Street Alliance Residential 280 apartment units

Summerour Townhomes Magnolia Drive LLC 14 townhomes

Site Planning Stage

Buford Highway at Beaver Ruin Road Blue Ridge Atlantic Development 70 apartment units

Mitchell Road at Reeves Street Walton Communities / Norcross Housing Authority 90 apartment units

Scan the QRCode for additional information about Norcross ongoing development.

Eddie Owen Brings the Music to Southwest Gwinnett

Words by Glenn Boylan Pictures courtesy of Eddie Owen Presents

Live music matters to Eddie Owen. Always has.

He grew up in a home where music was being played or sung all the time. He’s made a successful career over many years by providing venues for songwriters to share their music with audiences. And at every stop, he’s worked hard to have a positive influence on the communities where he worked.

Music in the family

“Music was a huge part of my family,” Owen said. “My grandmother owned the house we lived in. We had three families that lived there.

A lot of musicians, a lot of piano players, a lot of singers. There was always someone playing and singing.”

Owen grew up in a Southern Baptist family. His father was a minister and music was a big part of the church. So it’s not surprising that Owen’s church life added to the musical influences on his life.

In his 20s, Owen was in charge of the children’s sports programs at Decatur First Baptist Church. It was while he was coaching the girl’s basketball team that he met Amy Ray and Emily Saliers, who would go on to form the Indigo Girls, while the girls were in middle school. Even back then, they were performing, playing covers at a pizza parlor across the street from the church.

While serving as the Activities Associate Minister at Decatur First Baptist Church, Owen got to have dinner with the late folk singer Harry Chapin. The Senior Minister at the church was Bill Lancaster, who worked with Chapin on his World Hunger Year (WHY) project to alleviate world hunger. Lancaster was on his way to meet Chapin for dinner prior to a concert at the Fox Theater, and he invited Owen to come along, knowing how much he loved music.

“That’s one of the reasons I’m in this business,” Owen said. “Chapin was a great song crafter and storyteller.”

Providing opportunities

Given his background, it makes sense that Owen wanted to make live music a big part of

his life. First in Decatur at Trackside Tavern and Eddie’s Attic, and now at Red Clay Theater in Duluth, he has provided opportunities for artists to play.

He booked Ray and Saliers at Trackside Tavern before they hit the big time as the Indigo Girls. His lineup of artists at Eddie’s Attic always drew large audiences because they knew that Owen only booked great talent.

He took that idea to Duluth in 2012 with the opening of Red Clay Theater and Eddie Owen Presents (EOP).

A passion for new artists

Owen’s passion is giving new songwriters a place to perform their songs. In Duluth, EOP offers a concert calendar full of original music and songwriters roundtables. Owen is working to build that reputation of bringing original, undiscovered talent to the stage.

Attending a show at Red Clay, you’ll notice the respect that Owen gives to each and every act that comes on stage.

It’s a respect he feels deeply. “Every single person that is putting their soul on the line to sing

Raelyn Nelson

Erin Enderlin

Elizabeth Cook

a song they wrote in front of people is a hero,” Owen said. “I don’t think there’s a higher calling than to be a songwriter.”

Owen especially loves to give new songwriters a place to play.

New. Not necessarily young.

“I don’t think there’s a timeline for being a songwriter,” he said. “Some of the older songwriters are producing some of the more quality songs that are being written right now. With age and experience, the quality is going to improve. The older you get, you have more stories and tales to tell.”

Artists, listener, venue

come together

Everything is done with the goal of making a great experience for the musician and the listener. Owen visualizes the experience as three overlapping circles. If the artists and the listener and the venue all come together properly, it’s wonderful.

“There’s a medicinal thing that happens on both ends,” he said, “for the writer and the listener. My goal has always been to hit that spot with the venue and create it for both the artist and the listener.”

“That was the beauty of coming up here the first time,” Owen said. “They already had the infrastructure done.”

Working together

Owen is impressed by how the Duluth business community works together to help each other.

“The better we are as a whole,” he said, “the better we’re all going to be individually. And the better we are individually in a cooperative spirit, the better we’re going to be as a whole. A community, not us against them. If there’s one of us that needs help, one of the other of us should be the first to jump in.”

Outstanding acoustics at Red Clay

One thing that really stands out at Red Clay is the amazing acoustics for the shows. Owen and his sound engineer Shalom Aberle make that a very high priority.

“We work hard on it,” Owen said. “Shalom and I never rest. Every week we’re tweaking things and listening and talking about it. He really knows what he’s doing.

“Shalom wants two things to happen. He wants the artist to hear perfectly what’s happening and he wants the audience to have a perfect mirror image of what the artist is hearing. He works really hard to make that happen.”

Owen and Aberle are very excited about upgrades they are about to make to the sound system, thanks in part to some SPLOST funds from the city of Duluth.

“I’m so, so, so excited,” Owen said, “because with the SPLOST money that came through in November, the city has committed to having some of it go to upgrading our sound system. It’s going to be really cool.”

Benefits to the community

In addition to the music, Owen understands that his venue has a responsibility to be a positive contributor to its community. His mission for EOP includes Duluth as well.

When Red Clay opened in January of 2012, there wasn’t as much in downtown Duluth as there is today. “I would walk out of the building,” Owen said, “and the tumbleweeds would hit me.”

He feels that Red Clay and EOP helped generate an energy that wasn’t there yet and played a part in wooing some top quality restaurateurs and businesses to downtown.

He saw firsthand how that could work when he opened Eddie’s Attic in Decatur. Initially, the downtown area of Decatur was in bad shape. Owen saw the city council and downtown development authority actively work to change it.

“If the city didn’t do their job,” he said, “then the businesses weren’t going to be there.”

When he saw the same commitment from the city of Duluth, he knew he’d found the right location.

And it’s worked out well for both Red Clay and the City. Duluth Mayor Nancy Harris speaks highly of Owen’s contributions.

“The Red Clay Music Foundry under the operations of Eddie Owen continues to be a steadfast economic tool for the excitement that can be found in historic downtown Duluth,” Harris said. “People come from outside and inside the perimeter to experience quality performing arts in a unique music venue. Duluth’s entertainment district attracts people that are looking for chef driven dining experience coupled with great music.

“Eddie is a pioneer in the music industry and his reputation alone has helped Duluth attract merchants that want to be a part of Duluth’s authentic vibe.”

And that’s what Owen has always wanted. He wants to build something that will last long after he’s no longer working. He likes what his team has accomplished so far, but he knows there’s more to do.

“Am I happy with the progress? Yeah,” he said. “Can we do a better job than we’re doing? Oh, hell yeah.”

That team also includes Owen’s wife Allena. “She was the rock for our three children while I was living a crazy lifestyle making this happen,” Owen said. His children, Clark, Eamon and Lucy-Blair are all talented singers.

Despite significant changes in the music industry from when he first started, he still believes live music matters.

“I think live music will always be a viable integral and important part of the industry,” he said.

“There’s nothing like it.” ■

Travis Meadows

Joe Gransden

Chloe Agnew at Red Clay

Tuatha Dea 2022

Owen with Mayor Harris

YMCA Focuses on Healthy Bodies, Spirits, Minds

The annual membership drive waives joining fee through Jan. 23.

Words by Arlinda Smith Broady

YMCA is ready and willing to help everyone in the community to focus on healthy living, whether you’re looking for physical fitness, tips for nutrition eating or lessons in destressing and improving your mental well-being.

The Y is keeping up with the changing times and needs of today’s busy lifestyles.

The J.M. Tull Gwinnett YMCA is a bit outside the southwest quadrant of Gwinnett County, but other YMCA affiliates in the country, a membership at one is a membership at all. Even if you’re a member at the Robert D. Fowler YMCA or another branch, your membership is good at participating clubs everywhere.

executive director of the J.M. Tull Gwinnett YMCA. “We will also be adding some new group fitness classes. And we’ve had requests for morning classes, so we’ll be having something for all days and times.”

Both Tull and Fowler YMCAs offer a variety of multi-level classes geared toward several fitness levels.

“You don’t necessarily have to be a senior to participate in things like chair yoga and low impact strength classes,” said Cosby.

Both locations also offer fitness classes designed for members with Parkinson’s disease. “It’s through a partnership with the Parkinson’s Foundation,” Cosby explained. “That is a great opportunity to keep people moving and help them keep all of their muscle tone and strength up as they work through that disease.”

Another new addition at Tull is the community garden that began in October. Spaces are rented out for gardeners. There’s a builtin program to donate produce, so nothing is wasted. The facility also offers cooking classes to help showcase the fresh veggies in new ways.

Something for everyone

With many similar offerings at Fowler, Executive Director Katie Furlough agreed that, through the mission statement of focusing on spirit, mind and body, a major component is to foster a sense of community.

“We have lots of group exercise classes like yoga, and we have a wide-open program for cycling,” said Furlough. “These kinds of things are fun, and participants build community and connection with each other.”

Of course, it wouldn’t be a traditional YMCA without family activities.

ith the sweet treats and fattening meals of the past few months behind us, many are dreading stepping on the scale to reveal the evidence of overindulgence. The

WNew programs and classes

“We’re really excited about the new year. We’re actually onboarding a new wellness director, so he’ll be bringing a whole bunch of great, fresh ideas,” said Collette Cosby ,

“We also have some family nights that are going to happen in the early part of this year. So really, it’s an opportunity for families to come together and have some fun and connect and spend time together,” Furlough added.

As society moves through the pandemic and the changes that it has brought, there’s a deeper emphasis on mental health.

“We also have a program called lifelong learners, …a group of seniors who come together and discuss different topics,” said Furlough. “We’ve had people come and talk about money management and we’ve had people share their experiences as caregivers. …We have had conversations about healthy eating. We’ve brought in other kinds of organizations to help teach on different things.

“It’s really an opportunity for seniors to come and connect and build community and prevent loneliness and help provide them with connections,” she said.

Cosby stated that the YMCA isn’t just a place for kids or seniors — it really has something for all ages. “We want to make sure that people know that at the Y, there are a lot of different activities,” she said.

Hours run from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., so the Y tries to be available to everyone. There are kids’ leagues for soccer, basketball and more, and there are also programs for adults who play basketball, tennis and pickleball.

Holistic approach to health

Everything isn’t group centered.

“We view wellness in a holistic sense of how people are doing from a mental standpoint, as well as a physical standpoint. We want to

create spaces where people can be connected and people can find community, but also people can build healthy lifestyles,” said Furlough.

She explained that this is how the Coach Approach program fits in. Members meet with a wellness coach on an individual basis.

“I like to think of it as an accountability system,” said Furlough. “They set goals, they talk through the barriers to achieving these goals and why are they setting these goals.”

For example, if a member wants to run a 5K, the coach will help them get there. He or she will help build a plan with the right equipment and exercise plan. Then the member will meet with the coach periodically — bi-weekly or monthly — to check their progress.

“It’s all based around behavior change. There have been some really great successes of people who come into Coach Approach who don’t exercise on a regular basis. Once they leave Coach Approach, they are more apt to have a consistency of exercising or making better health decisions,” said Furlough.

Opportunities to join and get involved

As an added incentive for residents to

35 Years of Helping People with their Money

join, the membership joining fee is waived through Jan. 23. If a child is enrolled in Care Source or Peach State, the family may qualify for a free membership.

Because the Y is a nonprofit, it holds an annual giving campaign. A lot of the work that is done in the community is made possible through community generosity.

“Whether it’s our safety around water program, backpacks full of food on the weekend or senior programming — it’s all funded by donations,” said Furlough. “I love the idea of being part of something that is not just a place to come exercise, but it’s something that is investing in the community.

“And we also provide volunteer opportunities. …I think it’s just a cool way for families to give back, too.”

Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA

5600 W Jones Bridge Rd., Peachtree Corners 770-246-9622

ymca.org/locations/robert-d-fowler-family-ymca

J.M. Tull Branch/Gwinnett Family YMCA

2985 Sugarloaf Pkwy., Lawrenceville 770-963-1313

ymca.org/locations/jm-tull-branchgwinnett-family-ymca

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Rock N’ Roll Sushi Opens in Downtown Duluth

Words by Glenn Boylan Photography courtesy of Rock N’ Roll Sushi Duluth

ith a name like Rock N’ Roll Sushi, you would expect that music would play an important role in downtown Duluth’s newest restaurant. For owner Jason Burr, it’s a lot more than that. “Music is the reason we’re here,” Burr said. “We are rock and roll.”

Duluth’s Rock N’ Roll Sushi is located on Main St., next to the Red Clay Music Foundry theater. “We purposely selected a place next to the theater,” Burr said, “and next to Eddie Owen, an iconic member of the Georgia music scene. Our plan is to work with him and to work with downtown Duluth.”

Music will be more than just a name

The 10-foot-tall electric guitar sign is the most obvious signal of the restaurant’s theme. Menus

Ware presented in classic album covers and have dishes with names like “British Invasion Roll” and “Rockin’ Lobster” to further reinforce it. Rock N’ Roll Sushi will have live music. They’re building out the back patio now to accommodate that. But Burr, and Michael Hartshorn, his Territory Manager, want to go further.

“More and more artists are releasing vinyl albums now,” Burr said. “We’d like to have album release parties and include the new album as one of our menus. We hope this will give them more exposure and lift up the music scene in the area.”

An idea they’ve tentatively named “Sound Check” would be hosted at the restaurant the same day an artist performs at Red Clay with the artist providing a preview of their music while patrons enjoy happy hour prices.

Burr has been a consultant to The 30A Company, and in that role he was exposed to and worked with the 30A Songwriters Festival. He believes something like that could happen in Duluth, taking advantage of Red Clay and the

other multiple venues downtown.

Working with Duluth businesses

Burr and Hartshorn have the goal of not just building up their business, but helping all of downtown Duluth grow as well.

“If I do it right,” Burr said, “I will get as much benefit by promoting downtown Duluth as I will promoting my restaurant.”

The staff at Rock N’ Roll Sushi have already developed great relationships with their counterparts at Truck & Tap, 6S Brewing, Gwen Tajz, Good Word and other Duluth businesses.

Hartshorn and his crew knew the area well, having worked here before. “I’ve worked in four or five cities in the Atlanta area,” he said. “Duluth is the easiest to work in as far as customers and the town itself.”

Burr sees this location as being different from other restaurants in the chain. “A lot of Rock N’ Roll locations are in strip malls,” he said.

“There’s really not a community or allegiance. It’s about convenience. That’s not the case in Duluth. This is a different place.”

Employees are key

The Duluth location is taking a long-term view when it comes to their employees, too.

“COVID took a lot of people out of the industry,” Burr said, “and left a void that has been filled with employees who are open and comfortable with new ways of looking at how to run a business like this.” His ideas have proven popular with the staff so far.

His staff pools tips to cultivate teamwork. Performance is tracked so the employees can see how they can maximize customer service so that everyone can make more money. And Burr and Hartshorn are very open with information

about the business with their employees.

This has worked out well for the restaurant and its staff, but Burr sees a bigger picture as well.

“It’s clear that college isn’t meant for everyone,” he said. “I see it as a responsibility to provide an environment for these folks to work in that can be more than just a paycheck. If that means on the job training for how restaurants are run, and they get some context that they can build on in the future, then I’ve done my job right.”

Challenges to overcome

Perhaps the most difficult obstacle to date has been acquiring the necessary permits, but those were all finalized in September. Now the biggest challenge is letting people know the restaurant is open. Its location behind Main Street — you enter from the parking lot next to the railroad

tracks — can make it hard to see, although the guitar sign certainly helps.

Burr sees Duluth as a destination location, not one that is conducive to impulse buying like a strip mall. So his marketing strategy has to reflect that.

“Ultimately we’re going to live and die by people knowing we’re here,” he said. “We have to continually build our brand awareness so our base builds over time. We’re building slowly, solidly, making sure we provide Five Star service. Every week you get new customers. Once they come in here, it’s our responsibility to get them to come back.”

In his career, Burr has consulted with a variety of consumer brands, including 30A and Rock N’ Roll Sushi. While working with them, he became interested, and has acquired the rights to, five locations.

The Duluth location is the first to open. His second will be in Alpharetta on Windward Parkway, and he and Hartshorn are currently scouting other locations, many of them in Gwinnett County.

Burr and Hartshorn are well on their way to making Duluth’s Rock N’ Roll Sushi a great restaurant and a music hotspot. Through their goals of teaming with other local businesses, the city and their employees, they also expect Rock N’ Roll Sushi to make a positive overall contribution to the downtown district. ■

Rock N’ Roll Sushi

3140 Main St, Duluth, GA 30096 (678) 694-8612

Scan the QRCode for additional information

Surgical Technology Program at Gwinnett Tech Offers Opportunities to Excel

Words by Glenn Boylan Photography courtesy of Gwinnett Technical College

“It has really changed my life.”

That’s how Duluth resident Cinthia Sanchez described the Surgical Technology degree she obtained at Gwinnett Technical College.

“I struggled for so long trying to find somewhere to go,” Sanchez said. “I’m so happy I found this program and actually went for it. I’m in a much better place in my life.”

Preparing for and finding a rewarding career can be difficult. A four year university degree can be very expensive — and it doesn’t always result in a career in your field of study. Technical and community colleges can provide effective alternatives.

One such alternative is Gwinnett Tech’s Surgical Technology degree. The program has an ex-

Many opportunities

well.

Theresa Parker is the Surgical Technology Program Director at Gwinnett Tech. Known as “TC” to her students, Parker has seen the degree open many different doors in the medical field.

Of course, program graduates can go directly into becoming Surgical Technicians. That’s what Sanchez did.

“Gwinnett Tech trains you at the highest level,” Sanchez said, “and helps you find a job afterwards. TC is very well connected in the medical field. I’m so grateful.”

Many Gwinnett Tech students attend straight out of high school, but Sanchez had already been working in the insurance industry when

she chose to study at Gwinnett Tech at age 28. “I was an insurance sales rep,” she said. “It was not the thing for me. I was racking my brain, ‘what else can I do?’ I had attended an informational session on the Surgical Technology program several years ago and I was interested in it. I’m so happy that I joined the program. I’m actually doing something that I really enjoy now.”

Since graduating, Sanchez has been working as a Neurological Surgical Technologist at Grady Hospital in downtown Atlanta.

But other graduates take different paths.

“This associate degree is a great start,” Parker said. “You’re working with surgeons every day that can help you with your quest to get to physician’s assistant, nursing or medical school.”

Gwinnett Tech has a bridge program where Surgical Technology graduates can go on to study

cellent track record of preparing students for a rewarding, challenging career that pays

Students learn what to do with the equipment during a surgery

Cinthia Sanchez turned her degree into a job she loves at Grady Hospital

nursing at the school, and there’s an articulation agreement with Gwinnett Community College for those students wanting to become Registered Nurses or get their BSN degree.

Excellent career preparation

The Gwinnett Tech Surgical Technology curriculum includes classroom and book work, along with hands-on lab experience and actual experience in hospitals. It’s not easy, but it results in the program’s students being ready for work when they graduate.

Erin Baggett is a Surgical Technology Instructor. She works with the students primarily during their first semester.

“It’s a different environment,” Baggett said. “It’s a steep learning curve. It’s harsh. Stressful. But

we’re trying to help them understand what they’re about to be in. And in four months, they are ready to go to the hospital.”

The first semester at school has a 40 hour per week schedule. It’s about half classroom time and half lab time. Classes include an introduction to surgical technology, principles of surgical technology, and microbiology. In the labs, students practice what they will be doing during surgeries.

“It starts small and gets bigger and bigger,” Baggett said. “We actually do simulated surgeries by the end of the first semester.”

Although the “patients” on the operating table are medical mannequins, the two labs on campus are identical to a real operating room (OR) in a hospital. That makes Gwinnett Tech different from a lot of other schools.

The furniture, equipment, supplies, beds and lights are exactly what are used in operating rooms. The Mayo stands, which hold surgical implements and supplies near the patient, and the back tables that the surgical technologist students work off in the labs are exactly what they will use when working at a hospital.

“That’s where we train,” Sanchez said. “Scalpels, clamps, towels. How to drape the patient. We go through the entire surgery process. It’s a chance to put into practice everything you need.”

“Everything is real,” Baggett said. “There’s no pretending here.”

More than just book learning

Parker pointed out that these after-hours lab sessions are also invaluable for building teamwork. “The students usually do a good job about getting together as a group,” she said. “They become friends and stay friends.”

The program includes several activities to promote teamwork. “The first thing we let them do is pick scrub colors for their class,” she said. “We get to see the personalities.”

Teamwork is further enhanced because each class in the program is a cohort. In education, this means that the students attend the same classes and the same labs together as one group.

This is an important part of the student’s education because teamwork is vitally important in an operating room. Parker gave the example of tandem counting, which is how instruments and equipment are counted to make sure nothing is left in the patient. “Everything gets counted and accounted for at three specific times,” she said. “It requires teamwork and rapport.”

The Gwinnett Tech faculty also helps develop the students’ critical thinking skills. Baggett pointed out that errors can happen in an operating room and the surgical technologists can help catch and correct the problem. She pointed out that, “there’s not a single text book method. They have to take the principles they learned and critically think of the best way to fix the problem.”

One additional aspect of the Gwinnett Tech approach is to help the students develop a certain amount of toughness for the job. The OR can be a stressful place. Surgeons can be demanding. It’s important for the people working there to not take things personally and stay focused on their jobs. The faculty in Surgical Technology works to instill that in their classes.

A big part of that toughness is what Baggett called surgical conscience. “It’s the ability to tell on yourself when you make a mistake,” she explained, “even if it’s going to be to your personal detriment.” Through what they learn, and how the program is run, students come to understand how important that is.

Great reputation

The classroom and lab experience students get at Gwinnett Tech, along with the work traits the faculty develops in each class, have combined to make it one of the most successful and well respected programs in the Southeast.

For 21 consecutive cohorts, graduates of the Gwinnett Tech Surgical Technology program have achieved a 100% pass rate on the national Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) exam.

Passing the CST exam is a big deal. More and more hospitals are requiring it. Parker pointed out that potential students should be wary of less reputable organizations that offer Surgical Technology training. Many of them do not result in any certification, or they give out certifications that are not up to the national standard.

Area hospitals come to Gwinnett Tech to recruit the seniors for jobs because they know the quality of the program and have seen the capabilities of the graduates. Parker said that everyone in the last senior class had job prospects when they graduated.

The Gwinnett Tech Surgical Technology program provides students like Cinthia Sanchez with an education, effective hands-on training, professional certification and an inside track to getting a great job.

“It’s pretty crazy sometimes to realize this is what I’m doing for a living,” she said. “It’s awesome what they do at Gwinnett Tech. They truly prepare you for what you’re going to do.” ■

Being able to practice with real operating room tools is a huge advantage for students

Students get hands-on experience in the Gwinnett Tech lab

Learning how to properly handle the equipment is a vital part of the curriculum

Jinbei West Elevates Korean ‘Comfort Food’

Building on the buzz from his newest location in Peachtree Corners, Chef Jae Choi furthers his dream of unveiling a new style of cuisine.

Words by Arlinda Smith Broady Cover photography and below left by George Hunter Additional photos courtesy of Jinbei West

Even though Chef Jae Choi isn’t a fan of the term “fusion,” when it comes to the cuisine at his restaurant, Jinbei West, he admits that the term fits his style of cooking.

“Some of the items on the menu are just stuff that I enjoy eating. It just stems from my background, my travels or just

being from a southern area of Korea, where we have a lot of Japanese influences,” he said. “My grandmother speaks Japanese and so we had a lot of Japanese culture incorporated in our cuisine growing up.”

So, calling Jinbei West a Korean Japanese fusion restaurant isn’t wrong. But Choi doesn’t want people to think the end product is a trendy food hack.

In his home growing up, sushi was a big staple. “There’s Korean type of sushi and there’s Japa-

nese type of sushi, or it’s all this different raw fish …that different cultures eat. I’m just kind of marrying some of those together,” said Choi.

Yakitori Jinbei and Jinbei West

Although the restaurant is new to the offerings at Town Center, this isn’t Choi’s first foray into the food service world. He gained foodie fame with an appearance at his first place, Yakitori Jinbei in Smyrna, on Food Network’s “Diners,

Drive-Ins and Dives.”

The tiny hole-in-the-wall eatery was put on the food map, just at a time when Choi was wondering whether selling his optometry practice and pursuing his love of cooking had been a mistake.

The publicity came as the COVID-19 pandemic was gearing up and diners were abandoning sit-down eateries. Choi took advantage of the easy way his menu fit into the take-out culture and weathered the storm that drove many of

his fellow restaurateurs out of business.

Choi partnered with celebrity chef G. Garvin, whose restaurants include LowCountry Steak in Midtown and LowCountry Restaurants in Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. They opened the 2,000-squarefoot space in Peachtree Corners with an eightseat sushi bar, main dining room with seating for 40 and an enclosed patio that accommodates about 20.

The new spot maintains most of the dishes on the Yakitori Jinbei menu, including okonomiyaki, Korean fried chicken and ramen. With the income demographics supporting a higher price point, Jinbei West is an elevated version of its sister.

“In the first location, really, it was more like I purchased it just to test things out and try different things,” said Choi.

Before the national TV spotlight, Choi had considered rebranding. But once the concept and the flavors caught on, he decided to take his vision to the next level.

Personal journey to success

“Ever since I was a child, I wanted to go to culinary school. Coming from an immigrant background, that was not acceptable to my parents,” said Choi.

His family moved to the U.S. when he was five.

He lived in Chicago, which didn’t have much of an Asian influence at the time, much less anything Korean. So, meals were shared with a large extended family. The togetherness of making dumplings or preparing meals was a slice of the old country in the new.

“I had kind of reached a certain point in my career where I thought it was a good time to transition and do something else,” said Choi.

The end result is quality Korean cuisine with Japanese influences and other favorite flavors thrown in.

With food costs, staffing, supplies and other issues plaguing the restaurant industry, Choi has vowed to stay true to his flavors and quality.

“It’s been very challenging,” he said. “We work with all our vendors. And we pay a hefty price to try to keep a consistent flavor and consistency in our ramen broth. Even with rising prices, we aren’t going to cut corners.”

Choi knows it will take time to establish a following in the new location, but he enjoys the challenge.

“For patrons who are looking for an experience, I’d tell them that dining here is never going to be the same twice, in the sense that …we’re experimenting and we’re evolving,” he said.

“But when you get right down to it, this is a homey place. Bring your kids. Let them experience something different,” Choi added. “I’d say we have elevated comfort food. Who says you can’t have hamburger and caviar at the same time?”

Jinbei West

5170 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners 678-587-5323

w w w . e v r e m o d e l i n g i n c . c o m