Suwanee Magazine March - April 2012

2012 SUWANEE AMERICAN CRAFT BEER FEST PULL-OUT PROGRAM Community. Culture. Lifestyle.

suwaneemagazine.com

MAR / APR 12

SKY ZONE

SUWANEE’S NEW INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK

MARCO’S PIZZA Authentic Italian Pizza in Suwanee

MEET THE 2012 SUWANEE

GET FIT

CHALLENGE CONTESTANTS YOUR EXCLUSIVE GUIDE TO THE BEST

Ireland Lindsay photographed at Town Center Park on Feb. 20th, 2012

by Mary-Kate Laird Face painting by Wonder Colors Art Studio

SUMMER CAMPS

®

INDOOR TRAMPOLINE PARK

theULTIMATE

PLAY experience!

3-D Dodgeball I SkyRobitics™ Fitness Classes I Open Jump Corporate & Group Events I Birthday Parties I Foam Zone Join us for

SkyRobitics™ Fitness Classes Classes available Monday-Saturday

Fitness Bootcamp Fitness Aerobics Adults’ Play

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park 560 Old Peachtree Rd NW Suwanee, GA 30024

www.skyzoneatlanta.com follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/skyzoneatlanta

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A Note from the Editor

letter

Executive Editor Angela Veugeler

Managing Editor Darcy Seyller

Features Editor

Tana Suggs tanasuggs.reporter@gmail.com or tana@suwaneemagazine.com

Creative Director Randall Veugeler

As the daffodils begin to bloom, not only are we excited about spring, we are especially excited to bring you this issue of Suwanee Magazine.

With all of the great submissions, it was very difficult to choose just six contestants for the “Get Fit” Suwanee Challenge we announced in the previous issue. We finally narrowed it down, and on page nine, you can meet the lucky six Get Fit Suwanee contestants. The contestants are just beginning their fitness journey with our partners in the community. They will be giving frequent updates on the Suwanee Magazine blog and Facebook about their workouts, nutrition, challenges and accomplishments. We will be giving a full update on their progress in the coming issues of Suwanee Magazine. If you would like to be involved and support their hard work and drive to get healthy, look to join us in public work outs which we will announce in advance on Facebook.

Summer is around the corner, so be sure to check out our Summer Camp Guide, which includes not only great area camps, but destination camps as well!

March 31st marks the Second Annual Suwanee American Craft Beer Festival in Town Center Park. This year’s Beer Fest is going to be even bigger and better than last year- there will be over 100 breweries represented, live music, great food, a home brew contest, and much more.

A portion of proceeds will go to benefit Kingdom Kids. See the pull out guide for more information.

Be sure to check out the calendar for all of the other exciting events coming up, including a number of 5K’s, Suwanee’s Super Incredible Race, the Sunrise Service in the Park on Easter Sunday and more.

Have a fun, active and safe spring!

Angela Veugeler

SuwaneeMagazine.com 2

I Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com I MAR / APR 12

Executive Editor angela@suwaneemagazine.com

Art Director

Erica Abrams

Graphic Design Laura Payne Daniel Kroemer April Futey

Photographers Mary-Kate Laird Karl Lamb Julie Perdue

Web Editor Walt Wooden

Sales

Amanda Lindsay amanda@suwaneemagazine.com 404-438-7421 ----------------------------------------------------------------------------

President

Angela Veugeler

Publisher

Randall Veugeler

Corporate Office 554 W. Main Street Suite 400 Buford, GA 30518 Phone: 678-482-2270 Fax: 678-730-0691 Suwanee Magazine is published bimonthly by Veugeler Design Group.

Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2012 Veugeler Design Group.

The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please visit us online at SuwaneeMagazine.com for submission guidelines, or email us at info@suwaneemagazine.com

In this issue: 4 Suwanee Business Alliance 5 Investment Strategies 6 Business Spotlight 9 Suwanee Get Fit Challenge 12 Get Fit Hair Annual Golf Tournament

6

With Bill & Cindi Porter

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park

We reveal the contestants

Tips to keep your hair looking great

14 Restaurant Spotlight 17 Suwanee Government Marco's Pizza

Mayor's State of the City Address

18 Home 22 Events

Outdoor Living spaces

Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest

Suwanee Beer Fest 23 2012 Pullout 28 Charity

9

Foster Children's Foundation

31 2012 Summer Camps 35 City Buzz 40 Arts 41 Schools 43 People & Places 45 Events Calendar

Guide to the best kid's camps Suwanee happenings

Carolyn McKinstry

News from the clusters

On the scene in Suwanee

31

3

What’s Going On in Suwanee’s Business Community

business

Suwanee Business Alliance

Play for the good of the community!

Suwanee Business Alliance plans annual golf tournament

P

By: Ed Szczesniak President, Suwanee Business Alliance

hil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Cristie Kerr, Sergio Garcia…No, you won’t see them at the Suwanee Business Alliance's annual golf tournament. But you will see Richard Trice, Monty Montgomery, Sandy Richardson and John Miles! And just who are they?

They’re Suwanee business folks who love to have fun, play something that “sort of” resembles golf and raise money for some great people in our own backyard who could use a little help.

On April 24 the Suwanee Business Alliance will hold the 11th Annual Charity Golf Tournament. This tournament raises funds for a variety of causes in our own community and is one of the most fun local events of the year. Where else can you join your neighbors (the fun-loving ones), play hooky on a Tuesday, on a great golf course, enjoy some wonderful food, very cold beverages, win some great prizes, and do it all while helping your neighbors?

The organization uses the proceeds from the event to help other local organizations like Annandale Village, the Quinn House, GaGa for TaTas, the Foster Children’s Foundation, Toys for Tots, North Gwinnett Schools, Suwanee Police Department, Gwinnett Sexual Assault Center, North Gwinnett High School athletics as well as various local families who could use a little TLC (Tender Local Care).

During the past 10 years the SBA has invested more than $54,000 in our community and the need continues to grow.

And you can help!

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Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

I MAR / APR 12

Sponsors will receive significant recognition on the SBA website and all tournament advertising, publications and banners. We’ll provide players with goodie bags, breakfast, lunch, refreshments, a host of great new awards and prizes, a silent auction, and a heck of a lot of fun.

The tournament director, John Lowery, said this year’s tournament promises to be bigger and better than ever including the birth of the soon to be coveted “SBA Cup” as well as the “Suwanee Banker’s Cup.” We’re looking for players, teams and sponsors at various levels, prize donations, and people who want to not only get together for a great cause, but get to know their fellow business neighbors in the process!

When: April 24, 2012 8:00a.m. Registration / Breakfast 9:00a.m. Shotgun Start Where: Hamilton Mill Golf Course For more information please visit the SBA website at Suwanee.org or call John Lowery at 770-331-6361

The SBA meets the 2nd Wednesday of every month from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at different business locations in town.

For more info: Suwanee.org.

Business with Aileron Investment Advisors

Q:

invest money?

What are the most important considerations if I want to

some

By: Bill and Cindi Porter Aileron Investment Advisors

A:

There are two major factors you must consider; first you as an investor, and secondly, the characteristics of the actual investment such as its potential upside, risks, taxes and how it may interact with any other investments in your portfolio. However, in today’s column, we will discuss you - the investor.

There are two key questions you must ask yourself before making any investment decisions. The first question is how long do I plan to leave this money invested?

While not guaranteed, typically long-term investments offer a higher possibility for making larger gains. However, many times these extended investments, such as stocks and mutual funds, can be more volatile and have big swings in their resale value.

If you opt for these types of assets, you must be prepared to stay invested for many years. Otherwise you may have to sell at a low point in the market. If you think you may need the money in the next year or so, you should choose a short term investment. Matching your choice of investment with the appropriate time horizon is critical. Unfortunately many investors ignore this basic rule.

The second question you should ask yourself is how much risk am I really willing to assume? A general rule of thumb when considering risk is that the potential upside is usually similar to the potential downside. In other words, if you think a particular investment might go up 25 percent in value, it is probable that it could also go down 25 percent in value.

Make sure you only assume as much risk as you can afford financially and Send us your emotionally. investment You and your financial questions to advisor should answer these answer: info@ questions before discussing any suwanee specific investments. magazine.com

The views expressed in this article are not necessarily that of Suwanee Magazine.

INVEST YOUR FINANCIAL

FUTUR E

INVEST HOW SOLID IS

WILL HAPPEN TOPORTFOILIO? YOU OR YOUR YOU WILL CREATE IT. THE

WHAT ARE YOUR WANTS?

HOW SOLID CHOICE

WHAT ARE YOUR NEEDS?

IS PORTFOILI YOUR YOURS!

WHO IS LISTENING?

WHAT ARE YOUR WANTS? Cindi Porter as offense when it comes YOUR Congratulations on being named WHAT ARE NEEDS? to investing.”

2009 FIVE STAR Best in Client “Defense is just as important

WHO IS LISTENING? -Bill Porter, Forbes Magazine

Satisfaction Wealth Manager.

Featured in the April 2010 Georgia Finance Profiles

As seen in the October 2009 Atlanta’s Magazine

678.714.7611 www.AIAinvestorservices.com 4320 Suwanee Dam Road • Suite 2600 • Suwanee, GA 30024 “Defense is just as important as offense when it comes to investing.”

Cindi Porter Congratulations on being named 2009 FIVE STAR Best in Client Satisfaction Wealth Manager.

Securities offered through Integrated Financial Planning Services and Dempsey Lord Smith, LLC, members FINRA/SIPC.

“The basic theme that guides “When Cindi advised her clients to Featuredisinthat the April 2010 move out ofAs our investment philosophy theseenstock in themarket Octoberin 2009 Georgia Finance Profiles Atlanta’s Magazine avoiding losses is just as important July 2007, she provided the missing as looking for opportunities to grow 678.714.7611 links that are absent in so many assets. Every portfolio should have financial plans - defense, the ability www.AIAinvestorservices.com some element of defense.” to anticipate the future and the 4320 Suwanee Dam Road • Suite 2600 • Suwanee, GA 30024 – Bill Porter CLU, ChFC willingness to make the tough calls.”

-Bill Porter, Forbes Magazine

Securities offered through Integrated Financial Planning Services and Dempsey Lord Smith, LLC, members FINRA/SIPC.

April 2010

Oct 2009

4320 Suwanee Dam Road, Suite 2600 Suwanee, GA 30024

678.714.7611

Fax: 678.714.2116 info@InvestwithAIA.com www.InvestwithAIA.com Securities offered through Integrated Financial Planning Services and Dempsey Lord Smith, LLC, members FINRA/SIPC.

5

Sky Zone

Indoor Trampoline Park BY: Tana Christian Suggs

l l e w s a t Migh

ove over skate parks, water parks and the like, and say hello to the newest thing in the fun and amusement business…Trampoline Parks.

And Suwanee is home to Sky Zone, a new trampoline park.

Jeff Cole, owner of the Suwanee location, moved to the city from California where the trampoline parks are very popular. Cole said when he was looking for a place to move and open the park he found the Suwanee and surrounding area where the demographics are perfect. But that wasn’t all that drew the business owner to Gwinnett.

“What I thought was incredible about Gwinnett was the amount of kids that are in sports here, and the parent's involvement,” Cole said.

He opened the park on Dec. 17 when the area kids were out of school for the holidays, and he said everything went smoothly. So far, Cole said the reception in Suwanee has been exciting. “It has been incredible as far as how it has been received, even beyond expectations,” he said.

The trampoline park is not just your backyard trampoline. The large facility houses wall-to-wall trampolines giving what Cole calls a “3-D effect.” He said 3-D dodge ball is one of the most popular events at the park. Cole plans to start Sunday night dodge ball tournaments soon. “Dodge ball itself is fun, but when you put it on the trampoline and people - Jeff Cole are bouncing off the wall, it adds a whole

“The main thing is, it’s so much fun you don’t think this is exercise.”

different level to it,” he said. “It’s fun to watch too.”

Parents can sit in the parent lounge or they can sit in the park area.

Each jumper must have a signed waiver. For children younger than 18, the waiver must be signed by a legal guardian. As with any sport, safety is the number one concern. Court monitors, like lifeguards at a swimming pool, are on hand to facilitate games and to make sure everyone is safe and doesn’t jump beyond their ability.

6

Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

I MAR / APR 12

!

!

business

Nathanael Flock & Jeff Cole, owner of Sky Zone Suwanee

With childhood obesity on the minds of many parents, perhaps Sky Zone is a good way to get children up and moving. Jumping is a good way to exercise and Cole said one could burn up to as much as 1,000 calories per hour jumping. The park also holds SkyRobics, organized fitness classes, which offers a low-impact aerobic workout.

“The main thing is, it’s so much fun you don’t think this is exercise,” he said. “That’s what kids want. You get the benefits of a great workout.

It’s really a great thing.”

While kids love jumping, keep in mind the park is not just for kids. Cole said you just have to be brave. “The beauty of our business is that it really attracts kids of all ages, adults too. If they are brave enough to get out there,” Cole said. “It’s a lot of fun.”

Check the park’s website for events, to schedule a party, information on summer camps and more.

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park 560 Old Peachtree Rd NW 678-745-9900 skyzoneatlanta.com

7

INTRODUCING THE

2012 SUWANEE

GET FIT CHALLENGE C O N T E S T A N T S

BY: Tana Christian

Suggs

PAGE 9

th challen you will g know and fo along with du the year as strive to reach healthy lifestyle goa

2012 SUWANEE GET FIT CHALLENGE C O N T E S T A N T S:

GOAL: 70 LBS TO LOSE

10

GOAL: 122 LBS TO LOSE

GOAL: 85+ LBS TO LOSE

Michelle McShane

Divya Desai

Bill King

Current weight: ..............200 lbs Goal weight: ...................130 lbs

Current weight: ..............272 lbs Goal weight: ...................150 lbs

Current weight: ..............335 lbs Goal weight: ..........240-260 lbs

Georgia native, Michelle McShane is a new resident to Suwanee. A mother of two who works from home part time said she has battled her weight her entire life, but it really got “out of control” with her first pregnancy.

“Before my first pregnancy, I was in a size five,” McShane said. “I was somewhere in the range of 120 to 125 pounds.”

But due to some complications during pregnancy, McShane gained more weight than one would expect. And since gaining the weight, McShane has also had other health issues arise that doctors tell her can be alleviated with weight loss. After trying several diets, McShane still hasn’t found the solution and is looking to Suwanee’s Get Fit Challenge for help. She is calling 2012 to be a year of change for the better and has committed 100 percent to the program. She is motivated by the positive example that being a part of the challenge will have on her children and said her positive attitude will see her through.

"Being a part of the Get Fit Suwanee Challenge will truly be a life-changing experience for me,” McShane said. “From the moment I picked up an issue of Suwanee Magazine and saw the Get Fit Suwanee Challenge on the front cover, I knew that I had to be a part of it. I am so excited to join in on this wonderful opportunity. I'm anxiously awaiting the transformation of my health and my fitness level.”

Divya Desai said she felt like an angel showed her the way to the Get Fit Suwanee Challenge.

Wanting to lose about 122 pounds, Desai said she is in desperate need of help.

“I have tried many attempts in the past to lose weight but failed because no one was holding me accountable,” she said. And the challenge is just what she feels she needs to get her life back and to point her health in a new direction.

Desai said she has felt trapped and has avoided activities, people and even family, after having been subject to rude comments and ridicule by both family and friends.

Desai pointed out, “Would someone tell a cancer patient they will die in five years? Then, why me? I want to be cured.”

She said if selected for the challenge she would dedicate herself in order to change her health, to gain confidence and begin a new chapter in her life.

Now that she is a challenger, Desai said she feels being selected as a Get Fit Suwanee Contestant is probably the best thing that has ever happened to her.

“I finally feel that the dreams I have seen in past of losing weight, being healthy and living a normal lifestyle are finally going to come true with the help, the support, and the tools that Get Fit Suwanee is offering. I am very excited to begin this challenge and discover the new me.”

Bill King is a 47 year old Suwanee resident who said he is ready to get rid of the belly and get healthy.

After growing up as a skinny kid, King said the weight started creeping up about 21 years ago when his wife was expecting their first child.

Now standing at 6 feet 4 inches and 335 pounds, King said the extra weight is wearing him out and affecting his quality of life.

He said that being a part of the challenge would help him set the example he wants to be to his sons and give him the energy to enjoy a shared passion for dirt bikes with his 14 year old. He also said he feels like his participation would be a positive influence for his wife as well.

When King sent in his submission to be a part of the Get Fit Challenge, he said he really didn’t think he would be chosen.

“When they meet me, they will see that I’m really not that big,” King said.

But King was surprised when he met with the selection team, and not only was he a serious candidate, but that he was asked if he thought he could lose 100 pounds.

“I was devastated,” he said adding that he has since come to grips with the fact he could lose the weight and has resolved to work at it every day until it happens. “…I’m thankful for this opportunity.”

Michelle will be working out at

Divya will be working out at

Bill will be working out

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I MAR / APR 12 goperformance

Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

®

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health We received an incredible number of responses to participate in Suwanee Magazine’s Get Fit Challenge, and as everyone shared their compelling stories, the selection was a tough one. A big thank you goes to all who applied. The decisions have been made and we are happy to introduce to readers the winners of the challenge, who during the year will be making positive lifestyle changes right before your eyes. In addition to the overwhelming response from those wanting to participate as challengers, many area businesses have stepped up and will be contributing throughout the year. Follow the contestants journeys online at SuwaneeMagazine.com and in future issues of Suwanee Magazine.

GOAL: 60+ LBS TO LOSE

GOAL: 40 LBS TO LOSE

GOAL: 170 LBS TO LOSE

Erika Beckwith

Ginny Wurttemberg

Lacey Hester

Current weight: ..............180 lbs Goal weight: ..........120-125 lbs

Current weight: ..............215 lbs Goal weight: ...................175 lbs

Current weight: ..............315 lbs Goal weight: ...................145 lbs

Erika Beckwith, a mother of three, a professional development coordinator, a blogger and a host of an Internet radio show, leads a very busy life.

After the birth of her youngest child, three years ago, Beckwith said she has had a difficult time losing the 50 pounds she gained during pregnancy.

Having tried various diets with no success, she turned to Suwanee Magazine to be a part of the challenge. “…I’ve tried shakes and pills and wraps,” she said in her video submission. “You name it, I’ve tried it. And I just haven’t been successful. So I need your help. I need to get my sexy back.”

But she also said it’s not about losing weight and wearing a smaller dress size. It’s all about getting healthy.

She called the Get Fit Challenge her last hope.

Now as a challenger, Beckwith said she is excited, and with help, she is looking forward to developing a fitness plan that will allow her to lose the weight and help her adopt a healthier lifestyle.

“I know that it is going to be a lot of hard work, sweat and maybe a few tears, but in the end I know it will all be worth it,” she said.

Ginny Wurttemberg said before her triplets were born, she was running two to three half marathons each year.

“I have never been skinny,” she said. “But I was at a very healthy weight, exactly where I needed to be.”

And she continued staying healthy and keeping her weight in check for the first two years of the kids’ lives, back down to her pre-pregnancy weight and keeping it off. Then life got in the way.

“Managing life with three 2 or 3 year olds was tough,” she admitted.

On top of that, Wurttemberg has Multiple Sclerosis, an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.

Wurttemberg said she is ready to take on Suwanee’s Get Fit Challenge because of her need to be healthy for herself and her family.

“I want to show everyone no matter the circumstance, you can be healthy,” she said.

Not only would a change in her lifestyle help her manage MS, but she said her children are the main reasons.

“I want them to have a mom who loves to exercise and play with them,” she said. “I want them to have a healthy example. …I am already the most blessed person in the world. Now, I just want to get healthy again.”

The end of 2011 was a busy time for our next challenger. Lacey Hester, 21, graduated from college, got married, moved and started a new job all in one month. Sounds like a gal with everything going for her. But in her initial email, Hester said along with all the busyness, she carries around about 300 pounds of what she calls low self esteem and pain.

“This is the most I have weighed in my whole life and it consumes everything about me,” she said realizing it more than ever as she looked at herself in a mirror about 15 minutes before walking down the aisle in what she called the most heartbreaking moment of her life.

“I have always used food to make myself feel better,” Hester said. “Needless to say, I eat when I'm sad, happy and every other emotion in between.”

Hester saw the Suwanee Get Fit Challenge and reached out to us.

“I need someone on the sidelines cheering for me and pushing me to do what I know I'm capable of doing,” she said. “That is precisely why I think this program would be beneficial to me.”

After trying to lose weight on her own and failing, she said it's the ongoing support of the community that will make the difference.

“Everyone can see and hear my story and know that if I can do it, they can do it.”

Erika will be working out

Ginny will be working out at

Lacey will be working out at

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Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

I MAR / APR 12

Do you have

Fit Hair?

By: Cathie Politis Fennell Salon Greco, The European Day Spa

A

s you start to exercise, go on a crash diet or change your eating habits do you consider how your choice of getting “fit” affects your hair? It’s true that exercise reduces stress, the number one cause for losing hair today, and increases blood circulation, which nourishes the hair. However crash diets, diet pills and the latest fad diets could leave you with less than healthy hair.

Here are six "super hair foods" to help your hair look its fittest:

1. Cold Water Fish or Salmon

Contain omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B-12 and iron which help support a healthy scalp.

2. Lentil & Kidney Beans

High in protein, iron, zinc and biotin which promote hair growth.

3. Spinach & Broccoli

Excellent source of vitamins A and C which is needed for sebum production.

4. Eggs

Great protein source containing biotin and vitamin B-12 which are considered “Beauty Nutrients”.

5. Whole Grains

Can give you energy but also provide zinc, iron and B vitamins for healthier hair.

Yogurt & Cottage Cheese 6. Milk, Contain calcium which is needed for hair growth.

Deficiencies in certain vitamins and minerals can have a huge impact on your hair. A deficiency in vitamin A makes your scalp become dry and thick causing dandruff that could eventually lead to hair loss. Biotin deficiency can result in dry, brittle hair.

A zinc deficiency can lead to hair shedding.

A low-quality protein can cause weak brittle hair, while a profound protein deficiency can result in loss of hair color.

Low-calorie diets are often low in some of the most important nutrients for healthy hair including omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin A. In addition to stunting hair growth and leading to dullness, super-low calorie plans may even cause hair loss.

Need a diagnosis as to the “fitness” of your hair? Ask your stylist for a professional hair analysis and a recommended health plan for your individual hair needs.

The Best Culinary Experiences Suwanee has to Offer

food

Marco's Pizza

Authentic Italian

in Suwanee

A

BY: Tana Christian Suggs

ccording to the company website, the founder of Marco’s Pizza, Pasquale (Pat) Giammarco who was an Italian immigrant, came to the U.S. when he was just a young boy and worked in his family’s pizzeria. Later, Giammarco set out to make high quality pizza using a “secret sauce” along with the freshest ingredients. And from that, Marco’s pizza was born. This authentic Italian pizza can now be found in Suwanee.

Marco’s offers authentic Italian food lovers a variety of specialty pizzas including the Meat Supremo, Hawaiian Chicken and the award-winning White Cheezy pizza that includes four types of cheese, just to name a few. And if pizza is not what you’re craving perhaps a Meatball Amore or a fresh-baked sub will hit the spot.

D. J. Patel, owner of the Suwanee Marco’s pizza locations, opened the restaurant on Buford Highway in October 2011, and it didn’t take long for area residents to gain an appreciation for the food. After just opening, Marco’s Pizza won the best pizza award and placed third overall at the 2011 Taste of Suwanee.

Patel said in looking for a location for his restaurants, it was all about being local and where he could develop the brand.

14

Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

I MAR / APR 12

And it was the local atmosphere and sense of community that prompted him to choose Suwanee for his restaurant locations. Currently Patel has three locations in the area: Old Peachtree (takeout and delivery only), Mathis Airport Road (Windermere) and the newest location on Buford Highway.

The Old Peachtree location was Patel’s first restaurant in Suwanee, and Patel said he really enjoyed the local community and has partnered with several of the area schools.

The Buford Highway location offers a cozy and comfortable atmosphere that makes dining in a unique experience and a fun place for families. Beer and wine are also available when dining in. And Patel plans to open another location in Sugar Hill.

Patel said it’s the freshness of the food that makes the food tasty and unique, and Marco’s staff starts the day off early prepping and preparing the food.

“That makes a difference,” Patel said.

So far, it looks like those who have tried Marco’s Pizza are coming back for more. But Patel said he doesn’t expect people to take his word for it, and he encourages everyone to try it and make their own decision.

Marco’s Pizza

425 Buford Highway NW • Suwanee

678-541-2777

marcos.com

government ve ment vern State of Suwanee

News & Notes from The City of Suwanee

Suwanee Mayor Gives State of the City Address BY: Tana Christian Suggs

S

Jimmy Burnette Mayor of Suwanee

uwanee’s new mayor addressed residents and The success of the Suwanee SculpTour, which business professionals at the State of the City has received several awards and accolades, is indicative of the Address held by the Suwanee Business Alliance impact it has had on the community. on Jan. 11 at Suwanee City Hall. Jimmy Burnette, a And from a financial aspect, the fact that Suwanee has Suwanee native, shared personal sentiment of his early years maintained a high bond rating and has been able to maintain growing up in the city. or decrease tax rates, even in light of unfavorable economic He said for teenagers living in Suwanee in the 1960s, they conditions has also been an indicator of the city’s positive went to Buford to hang out at the Dairy Queen, drove around progress. on Main Street and if you had a date and wanted to get During his address, Burnette also highlighted the changes something to eat, the Suwanee Grill, located that have taken place in the city over the years where Dillard’s BBQ is located today, was the – from the location of Suwanee City Hall to place to go. changes in the role of Suwanee City Council “We were in the country,” he said.

Members. He also spoke of the hard work and My goal is to When he left to go to college at Georgia dedication of the city’s staff. ensure that our Southern, he knew he would come home to But he said there’s still work to be done.

Suwanee. But after graduation, he said there were community is a place Work will continue on the 20/20 Vision no jobs or homes in Suwanee. It took four years where our kids want to Strategic Plan and the Suwanee Gateway has before Burnette and his wife, Caron, were able to been a focus for several years, and city officials return and can return plan to continue their focus on those areas. move back to the city he loves. to raise their families.

“My goal is to ensure that our community is Burnette described the reconstruction of - Suwanee Mayor, a place where our kids want to return and can Buford Highway as “exciting and impactful,” as Jimmy Burnette return to raise their families,” he said speaking city staff and officials have worked to keep Buford about his goal in his new leadership role in the Highway a two lane road to maintain its rural and Suwanee of today. historic feel enhancing the Town Center area.

Burnette cited several major turning points The police substation, the sale of Pierce's for the city, most recently, the 2001 open Corner and reconstruction of Buford Highway space bond referendum that has propelled Suwanee to be the all offer positive ways for continued improvement for the city community it is today. and its residents.

He said the parks have added to the resident’s quality of Burnette recalled recent survey results indicating that 98 life and has contributed to the city’s hometown feel. percent of residents found Suwanee an excellent place to live, The Public Art Initiative is another area that Suwanee takes and he said his goal is to keep the satisfaction rate high for pride in, an initiative that enriches the lives of its residents. people living in the community.

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Design Tips from Suwanee Decorating Pros

home Maureen & Lee Recchia, Owners American Casual Living

imaginePossibilities L the

of an outdoor living space

ike gently rolling thunder, a wave of enlightenment has enveloped the home improvement industry.

The emergence in popularity of the “outdoor room” has focused attention on an area of the home often considered an afterthought. Fueled by improvements to materials for outdoor furnishings, particularly fade resistant fabrics, homeowners are coveting comfortable outdoor living areas for family fun, entertaining friends, or for quiet enjoyment and relaxation. With a little imagination and creativity, quality outdoor living products can extend the homeowner’s personality and design preferences to outdoor living spaces.

To many, this concept seemed foreign, and beyond their grasp.

However, aided by the popularity of “do it yourself” and home improvement programming, our awareness and appreciation

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for outdoor living spaces has blossomed. As consumers continue to embrace the outdoor room concept, phrases such as “backyard oasis,” “staycation” and “outdoor kitchen” have quickly become standards of the modern lexicon of home improvement. Family and friends always gather where they are most comfortable, and outdoor rooms are fast becoming one of the most popular destinations of the home.

Outdoor rooms can be crafted to include many of the amenities typically found inside the home such as upholstered furniture, kitchen appliances, audio, TV, decorative lighting, wall art, and more.

And what better time to begin to think about an outdoor room than springtime! An outdoor room project is an exciting and engaging process. A little preplanning will help eliminate many obstacles in designing the outdoor living space of your dreams.

home

Here are a few items to consider when designing an outdoor living space: The big picture: What is the intended use? Is it entertaining, dining, beautification or perhaps a personal getaway? Identify your needs/wants, the desired time frame for completion, impact on lifestyle and available resources. Imagine it – sketch it out.

Your lifestyle: Is it casual and relaxed, formal and traditional, modern or transitional?

The budget: Research your options. Plan for all

elements and then prioritize – fireplace, hardscapes, outdoor kitchens, water features, furniture and accessories, vegetation, modification to utilities, etc.

The environment: Take advantage of the natural beauty of your environment. Topography, vegetation, coloration, natural vistas, shade patterns.

The seasons: Design the space for comfortable year round use. Outdoor fireplaces, fire pits and outdoor heaters provide warmth and comfort in cooler months.

Color: Effective use of color will bring even the most casual environment to life.

Assistance: Casual living magazines are an excellent source of ideas and inspiration. Consult qualified professionals. Larger projects require thoughtful planning, careful management and on-going monitoring.

With quality “outdoor ready” casual living furnishings and appliances more commonplace, the design of a comfortable, inviting outdoor room is limited only by one’s imagination.

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1pm5pm

Limited Tickets Available

SPONSORING HOME BREW CONTEST

TION SPONSORING SILENT AUC KIDS PROCEED BENEFIT KINGDOM

SPONSORING VIP TENT

Organizations & individuals Who are Giving Back to Suwanee

Charities

Foster Children’s Foundation

SUPPORTING FOSTER AND AT RISK CHILDREN IN GEORGIA By: Suzanne Geske Executive Director of the Foster Children's Foundation Inc.

here are thousands of children in our community who wake up each day feeling hopelessly alone.

They live in unstable environments that can change frequently and many don’t have even the basic necessities needed to make it through each day. Despite these serious concerns, the greatest fear they face is the possibility that there might not be anyone who loves and cares for them. For these youth, knowing there are people in the community who truly care about them is a huge comfort that they can trust and rely on.

The Foster Children’s Foundation provides for the material, emotional and educational needs of foster and at risk children in our community through programs and projects that improve their quality of life and raise their self esteem.

The FCF provides many basic needs and crucial programs to help youth reach their potential. For thousands of children, they are like family they can depend on. The FCF provides a resource center where youth can come to shop at no charge for basic needed items such as clothing hygiene products, and school supplies. The organization plays host to numerous events throughout the year that allow youths to create lasting childhood memories and reunite with separated siblings. The FCF also provides a life changing mentoring program called Tomorrow Matters®. This program equips foster and at risk youth with the tools, resources, mentors and training they need to succeed.

The FCF needs your help to continue offering these services and programs to children in need. Financial contributions are tax-deductible and allow the organization to support the needs of less-fortunate youth in our community. For more information or to make a donation, go to fosterchildrensfoundation.org.

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What can you do to help?

There are a variety of ways you can make a difference. Here are a few:

Have a Hat Day/Jean Day/Casual Day at your office. Get all of your co-workers to donate to the Foster Children’s Foundation and in return allow them to wear jeans, a special hat, or a Hawaiian Shirt for a day.

Hold a “Give Back Birthday” or “Party for a Cause” at your house or office. Guests make a monetary donation upon entering the party. It’s a great excuse to have your friends and family over for a fun event and you will be making a difference in the lives of children in need.

Hold an event such as a carwash, bake sale, tournament, or dance to benefit the Foster Children’s Foundation and Tomorrow Matters® Mentoring Program.

Become an FCF Ambassador and make a monthly contribution that will allow us to continue to provide great services to less-fortunate youth.

Stay Active. Have Fun. This Summer.

This Is My Sport

Registering Now For Suwanee Sports Academy's All Sport Summer Camps Find out more www.ssasports.com (770) 614-6686

My Sport Summer Camp at Suwanee Sports Academy gives kids an opportunity to experience a variety of sports and activities in a fun and safe environment - with nearly 100,000 square feet of indoor recreational space.

Sign up for one week or all ten weeks of summer. Each week is different. Register Online

Also, check out Suwanee’s newest Preschool and Private Pre-K program.

Enrolling Now for the 2012-2013 School Year

www.ssasports.com/preschool

cover story

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Summer Camp!bout

As adults, perhaps so me of the most trea sured childhood memorie s come from the tim es you cut ties with parents and fo und newfound free dom at summer camp. And for pare nts summer means pack of many school-aged children, ing bags, loading up on and sun screen and sending your little ca bug spray m have those same fu n-filled experiences per off to .

So whether it’s an to the ccording ociation, more overnight camp mile A ss s Camps A t camps away or a day camp just American 0 day and residen r, more down the road, Suw a 0 anee than 12,0 e U.S. and each ye adults Magazine has put h d exist in t illion children an together a list of su than 11 m attend camp. mm camps near and far. er

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Adrenaline Climbing

770-271-1390 I AdrenalineClimbing.com For kids, ages 6 to 12, each 1 week program is jam-packed with adventure, exploration, and excitement. Outdoor fun and education on a "Higher Level" is what you'll find at Adrenaline Climbing. We take the term "Field Trip" to the extreme. We travel to exotic locales, both indoors and out, seeking the most unusual and interesting experiences for our kids. It's just one of the many reasons why we're voted the top day camp in Atlanta year after year!

Anita's ArtsCool

678-230-4937 I AnitasArtsCool.com Travel to other countries and design your own creations. Explore your five senses.

Taste your food art or make a tactile collage. Mix up paint creatures, ex: Giraphant will the legs be short and heavy or thin and spindly? Connect and learn about artists as children. Dreams - Make pop out doors to reveal surprises in your dream paintings.

Learn the basics, work with a wide range of art materials, learn about famous artists and other countries while having fun. Bring a sack lunch. For ages 6 – 10, 9 a.m. 2 p.m., supplies included. $120 per week or $30 a day, $10 registration fee

Camp All-American

Ca mp All-American

678-405-2266 I Perimeter.org/camp

Voted best summer day camp by local publications, Camp All-American is the premier camp in North Atlanta. Join us for our 23rd summer and see for yourself why campers and parents alike rave about the Camp All-American experience. Our world class facilities include more than 100 secure acres loaded full of fun: 11 acre wilderness and ropes course area contains over 1 mile of zip lines, giant swings and one thrill after the other, pristine athletic fields, tennis courts, water complex, putting green, and over 300,000 square feet of air conditioned space.

Harrisonburg, VA

Camp Horizons

540-896-7600 I CampHorizonsVA.com

An all-around, try stuff, get dirty, have fun, make friends summer camp in Virginia's beautiful Shenandoah Valley. Co-ed, ages 6-17. One and two week sessions. Programs include Discover (ages 6-8), Journey (ages 9-11) and Explorer (ages 12-16). Activities include sports, swimming, water slide, canoeing, arts & crafts, movie making, radio, photography, drama, dance, ropes course, climbing wall, caving, rock climbing, hiking, nature, horseback and more! Check out our specialty camps for Horseback (girls ages 10-14), Adventure (ages 14-17) and Performing Arts (ages 14-17)! Airport pickup available from Washington Dulles. ACA Accredited.

Club Scientific

404-932-2552 I northGeorgiaClubScientific.com Your child can be a meteorologist, robot maker, video game inventor, veterinarian, or space explorer! Club Scientific North Georgia is a high-quality science camp for children ages 4-13. With hands-on science projects and an 8:1 student/staff ratio, we provide programs to excite the minds of young children. Science was never this much fun!

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Emagination Computer Camp 877-248-0206 I ComputerCamps.com

Technology learning PLUS summer camp fun! Emagination blends the latest in tech learning with cool non-tech activities that create a well-rounded summer camp experience. Mercer University at Atlanta. Ages 8-17. 2-week sessions. Day and overnight. Create FlashÂŽ animations, 3D animations, digital music. Design video games. Build robots, RC cars, iApps. swimming & recreation. Emagination also offers a separate and immersive two-week course in video game development. At Emagination Game Design teens 15-18 join a team to build a 3D video game, visit a game development studio, learn from guest speakers and present to a panel of industry experts.

Encore Music Camp

770-914-8866 I EncoreMusicCamps.com Encore! Band Camp provides an enjoyable musical experience for band students from 5th through 9th grade. Students receive a great blend of educational and recreational activities during the week. Rehearsals and master classes are conducted by highly skilled specialists with proven success in working with band students at this level. In addition to rehearsals and master classes, afternoon and evening recreational activities are scheduled. The camp closes with concert performances in the evening of the final day of camp.

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Ca mp Horiz ons

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Georgia Track Camps 706-542-7915 I GeorgiaTrackCamps.com

Come join Head Coach Wayne Norton and his staff for the 2012 Track & Field camps at the University of Georgia. We look forward to seeing you at camp! Each camp is designed for all ability levels (this includes beginners, advanced athletes and coaches) where focus will be placed on their desired target area. Each camper will get the help that they need in any level. June 11-14, 2012, June 17-20, 2012 Track & Field and Cross Country Camp I Overnight and Day Camp

Girl Scout Summer Camp 770-702-9136 I GirlScoutSummer.com

You don’t have to be a Girl Scout to experience any of the five camps throughout Greater Atlanta. A wide variety of programs are available for a first time camper or a bold adventurer -watersports, crafts, horseback riding –even rock wall climbing! Girls will have a summer of memories that last a lifetime!

Overnight and day camp opportunities available for all girls in grades 1-12! five great camps accessible to the Atlanta metro area.

Academy s t r o p S e Suwane

Karate Atlanta

678-714-0000 I KarateAtlanta.com Summer is coming soon! Your kids will have A LOT of fun AND learn focus and manners too! We are offering two Karate Camps to kids of ages 4 and up who want to learn more about Taekwondo and self defense. We will play karate games, have a water balloon fight, and a pizza party. There will be two separate Karate Camps offered, they will be held June 11th – 15th and July 9th – 13th from 9am – 1pm.

Register before April 1st and receive a $20 discount off of Camp. We have camps occurring in Hamilton Mill, Duluth and Suwanee.

Masterpiece Mixers

678-928-1100 I MasterpieceMixers.com Beat the heat and come unleash your inner Picasso. Our summer camps are incredibly fun and super creative. Campers will enjoy daily painting and art instruction, snack, games and more. Learn about some of the "Greats" like Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso and more. If the weather is right, we can paint "en plein air" just like they do in Montmartre France! Camps run Monday – Thursday, 9a.m.12 p.m., Daily price is $35, weekly is $115 and includes canvas, paint, apron, brushes, instruction, snacks, crafts and games. Week long campers get a shirt, too!

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Peace, Love & Pottery 678-714-5683 I PeaceLoveandPottery.net

Join us at our new location for our 3rd year of AWESOME Summer ART Camp!

Every week we journey through cool mediums including glass fusion, clay sculpture, canvas painting, tie dye, mixed media and of course, pottery! We have 8 weeks of camp starting May 28th thru July 27th. Each camp runs from 10am-2pm everyday.

The cost is just $170.00 / artist for the entire week and includes a Peace, Love & Pottery shirt! Ages 5 +. Be sure to check out our online calendar for details about our other school holiday day camps too!

Atlanta Silverbacks

678-436-8075 I AtlantaSilverbacks.com The Multi Sports Summer Camps focus on keeping kids active in a fun sports-centric experience. Participants will enjoy activities including soccer, football, wiffleball, kickball, PE Games, and more as well as a field trip to local Atlanta area attractions.

Spring Break Camp Only - $100. Summer Camps - $150 includes: Field Trip, Silverbacks T-shirt, Two ticket vouchers to any Silverbacks regular season home game. 9 AM- 4 PM. Extended Hours are 7:30am start and 6:30pm finish all week for an additional $20 fee (No additional fee during Spring Break).

Sky Zone SkyCamp 678-745-9900 I SkyZoneAtlanta.com

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ottery

Sky Zone Indoor Trampoline Park, located in Suwanee, offers multiple weeks of soaring summer FUN with SkyCamp! SkyCamp includes five half days of out-ofthis-world and unmatched activities atop Sky Zone's patented, all-trampoline, walled playing courts where participants can bounce off the walls - literally! Activities include open jump, 3-D Dodgeball, Foam Zone, SkySlam basketball, and SkyRobics 4Kids, and the agenda also includes breaks, snacks, and various off-the-court arts, crafts and games. Take YOUR summer to the SKY with SkyCamp!

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Suwanee Academy of the Arts 678-482-6333 I SuwaneeAcademy.com

Little Princesses (ages 3 - 7) will have Enchanted Adventures each morning at the Castle with the Fairy Godmother, Queen Bee and Princesses, culminating with a Majestic Ball. Little Heroes (ages 3 -7) will have action-packed morning adventures while training to save the day. They will learn basic tumbling, sports and aerobic skills, as well as character traits of Superheroes. In the Musical Theater Performance Workshop, campers (ages 7 – 13) will experience all facets of putting on a musical performance for family and friends! Summer Kindermusik classes, too!

Suwanee Sports Academy 770-614-6686 I SSASports.com

Suwanee Sports Academy is Gwinnett's premier multi-sport facility, and with nearly 100,000 square feet of indoor recreation space it is definitely the place for Suwanee kids to be this summer. SSA's My Sport Summer Camps run every week of the summer and give kids the opportunity to learn and play a variety of sports and activities in a fun, safe and air-conditioned environment. Suwanee Sports Academy also offers numerous sport specific camps for basketball & volleyball players.

Tavani Soccer

770-396-8258 I TavaniSoccer.com Tavani Soccer Camps are back for their 10th year. Our camps are for all levels of players, boys & girls ages 7-15, M-Fri, 9-12. The camps are designed to develop tactical, technical and physical skills to a higher level. Skills such as dribbling, passing, shooting, and playing as a team are emphasized in small-sided games daily. Each player receives a camp t-shirt, leather hand-stitched ball and a personal evaluation.

Goddard School

770-831-2588 I GoddardSchool.com Energetic teams of teachers plan developmentally appropriate activities to nurture self-confidence and instill a lifelong love of learning. Children, up to ten years, are exposed to science and nature, arts and crafts, drama, computers, sports and games, and special visitors for exciting learning opportunities in a safe environment centered around this year’s theme, Passport Around the World (May 29th-August 30th). Energetic teachers plan days filled with developmentally appropriate activities to foster children’s skill building, self-confidence and cognitive development. Enroll by April 30 and receive free registration (for new families only).

Hudgens Center for the Arts 770-632-6002 I TheHudgens.org

Print, paint, draw, sculpt, sew, throw, hammer, carve and glue! The Hudgens offers a variety of fine art camps for budding artists of all ages. From weekly day camps for 5 to 12 year olds to an intensive portfolio development course for teens, The Hudgens has something for everyone. Immerse yourself in the visual arts this summer at The Hudgens! Color Wheel Summer Camps, ages 5–12, each week in June. Summer Pottery Camps, ages 8–14, July 9-13 & 16-20. Teen Summer Portfolio Development Intensive, ages 14–18, July 23-27. Online enrollment for camp opens March 15.

V.C. Giles Music Studio

678-376-9800 I VCGilesMusicStudio.com Come join us at V.C. Giles Music Studio for “Music Around the World.” Each day we will grab a passport and “travel” to a different country. Come play the “Didgeridoo” from Australia. Dance to “Bouzouki” music from Greece. Sing songs in Spanish.

Play games, pick your favorite food and enjoy arts and crafts. When? June 11-14, or June 18-21 9:30 – 12:00 noon. Ages? 4 – 10 years old. Cost? $90.00 Early Bird Special (before May 14th) $99.00 After May 14th.

Wonder Colors Art Studio 770-831-7417 I WonderColorsArtStudio.com Come and spend an amazing fun-filled week with us this summer at Wonder Colors Art Studio! During our art summer camps we will complete full art lessons, play games, make crafts, watch movies, have snacks, and make friends for grades K thru 5th. Our art lessons will involve a wide range of art materials and techniques such as natural clay, paper mache, oil pastels, soft pastels, tempera paint, water colors, and collage!

Our small camp sizes also allow for your artist to get the personal attention they need.

Discounts available for siblings and artists who wish to attend multiple weeks!

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Mission Completed!

On Jan. 15, 2012, Kyle Maynard and his team of both “able-bodied” and “disabled” civilians and military veterans, reached the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, at 19,340 feet. Maynard is the first quadruple amputee to get to the top without assistance.

According to the Mission Kilimanjaro website, when Maynard was asked why he was taking part in this mission, he responded, “I am climbing for the people who may not realize how much potential they have in their lives.

I am climbing to pay tribute to my heroes – the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who have sacrificed so much to preserve my freedom.

Events Manager Amy Doherty attended the Southeast Events I am climbing because it and Festivals Association annual conference in Kingsport, Tenn., will be the hardest thing I where Suwanee won a gold award for its 9-11 commemorative event/ have ever attempted. I am Remembrance unveiling and a silver award for the Suwanee Day flash climbing because I can.” mob in the "event within an event" category. Go Suwanee!

For photos from the summit and more visit missionkilimanjaro.com The city of Suwanee has been recognized twice for its public arts initiative and particularly for its inaugural Suwanee SculpTour exhibit. Jan. 22, Suwanee was one of six Georgia cities recognized as a Trendsetter by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and Georgia Trend magazine. And later, the city was awarded a Community Impact - Community Arts Program Award from ArtWorks! Gwinnett. The city of Suwanee was a co-winner, along with the Gwinnett County Public Library, of the Community Impact Community Arts Program Award, presented by ArtWorks! Gwinnett.

Suwanee Events Garner Awards at Conference

Suwanee Wins Another One!

City Releases 2012 Event Calendar Festivals…races…and… concerts – oh my! The city of Suwanee’s 2012 events calendar, now available on the What’s New/Events page at suwanee.com, offers an entertaining harmony of sights and sounds. Event attendees will see a locally produced Broadway show, artists at work, and cultural displays and performances.

They also will hear ekes and screams at October’s Terror on the Trail, barks during Star 94’s Woofstock event in May and cheers when the Atlanta Braves present a Game on the Green, also in May. In all, Suwanee will host approximately 35 city-sponsored and privately presented events in 2012. The first concert will celebrate Atlanta’s Greatest Hits Birthday Bash on April 14.

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Star 94 ’s

WOOFST May 12 OCK th

city buzz

100+ Team Volleyball Southeast Tournament Invades Suwanee For many in Suwanee the weekend of Jan. 14 -16 was all about digs and spikes as Suwanee Sports Academy held the Mizuno Southern Dream 2012 Volleyball Tournament.

Cindy Young, director of volleyball at Suwanee Sports Academy coordinated the tournament where more than 100 teams from Ga., N.C., S.C., Tenn., and Ala., participated and coaches from about 50 colleges came to see some of the best teams in the southeast compete and scope out the talent. Younger club teams played games at the Suwanee Sports Academy, while the older girl’s teams and power teams played nearby at Gwinnett Center. The tournament was sponsored by A5 Volleyball Club.

Not Just Surviving Cancer but

Kicking Its Butt!

Bikers Batting Breast Cancer and their Pink Kick-Starter Project are one of the 30 national finalists eligible for a $50,000 grant needs your online votes.

This local non-profit rallies the support of the motorcycle community to raise funds for local programs to support education, awareness and early detection, as well as provide Pink Kick-Starters™ to empower newly diagnosed breast cancer patients on their journey. The grant is offered through the Lester Smith Pink Well Challenge with two ways the finalist can win a $50,000 grant: by raising the most money for their cause or by receiving the most online votes between now and May 15. Voters can go to www. pinkwell.org and vote everyday.

Donations can also be made on the website.

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city buzz

Local Woman Runs 117.485 Miles in 24 Hours

A New Buford Highway

The city of Suwanee is poised to implement a $3.3 million Livable Centers Initiative grant to reconstruct a portion of Buford Highway. Rather than widening the roadway, as many communities are contemplating, Suwanee will reconstruct sections of Buford Highway as a context-sensitive roadway that will accommodate multiple modes of transportation and help improve connectivity to and within downtown. Work begins with a scoping study and construction is anticipated to begin sometime in 2013.

City Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony for New Police Department Substation

Husband and wife Jason and Stephanie Miller completed the Peanut Island 24 hour Ultra Marathon on Peanut Island, FL, beginning on New Year's Eve and ending on New Year's Day. Stephanie, a Go Performance/Gold's Gym Suwanee trainer completed 117.485 miles in 24 hours, coming in 1st place overall. Jason finished with 101.316 miles and was 1 of 9 people to finish 100+ miles.

Way to go Stephanie and Jason!

The city of Suwanee held a groundbreaking ceremony Jan. 12, at the site of the Suwanee Police Department substation at 2996 LawrencevilleSuwanee Road.

The 7,100-squarefoot police substation and training facility will provide a highly visible and enhanced police presence in the Suwanee Gateway area while providing a class space for regional police training and indoor firearms practice.

Construction of the facility, designed

by Tunnell-Spangler-Walsh & Associates, is expected to cost a little more than $1.6 million; the anticipated total project cost is approximately $1.99 million. The project is funded primarily through SPLOST funds.

L-R: City Manager Marty Allen, Russell Small, Former Capital Projects Manager with Moreland Altobelli Associates, Councilmember Dick Goodman, Councilmember Kevin McOmber, Councilmember Jace Brooks, Mayor Jimmy Burnette, Suwanee Police Chief Mike Jones, Deputy Chief Janet Moon, Jerry Spangler, Tunnell-Spangler-Walsh Associates, Architects Paul Hogan, Hogan Construction Group

Suwanee Business Owners Celebrate Success

Suwanee residents and owners of Signarama Gary and Nancy Rosenberg celebrated the grand opening of their new location, 4737 Thompson Mill Road in Buford, with a ribbon cutting ceremony Jan. 25th where friends, clients, area professionals and members of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce gathered to celebrate the new location and company’s ongoing success.

The move to the new and larger facility will allow the owners and staff to better service the needs of their clients. In addition, the 6,000 square foot facility will also accommodate the company’s expanding client base allowing for continued growth.

(L-R, front row) Bob Lampl, Suwanee City Council Member, Doug Ireland, Gwinnett Chamber’s Vince DeSilva, Owners Nancy & Gary Rosenberg, Darrel Israel, Johnny Phelps, Shelly Bloom & employee Tina Hunter

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city buzz

Record Sales for Re/Max Center Re/Max Center in Suwanee had a record number of sales in 2011. The office sold 2,175 homes, the most since it opened for business in 1994. There are currently about 115 full-time Realtors at the Suwanee office.

Suwanee's Annandale Village Ranked Highest in Georgia For the third consecutive year, the D. Scott Hudgens Center for Skilled Nursing of Annandale Village has received the prestigious "five-star" ranking in U.S. News & World Report's annual Best Nursing Homes. Of more than 15,500 nursing homes in the United States, the center ranked highest among all nursing homes in the state of Georgia and is the only nursing home in Gwinnett County to be awarded the five-star rating.

U.S. News's evaluation of nursing homes is based on data from Nursing Home Compare, a consumer website run by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The government agency sets and enforces standards for nursing homes (defined as facilities or portions of facilities enrolled in Medicare or Medicaid that provide 24-hour nursing care and other medical services). Homes earn an overall rating of one to five stars, as well as up to five stars in each of three underlying categories: health inspections, nurse staffing, and quality of care.

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The Latest from the Suwanee Art World

arts

Carolyn McKinstry

Witness to History

Author gives personal account of the Sixteenth Street Church bombing during visit to Suwanee Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library

T

BY: Tana Christian Suggs he early 1960s was a time of racial discrimination and turmoil. Birmingham, Ala., was one city in the forefront of that turmoil. It was also a time when Martin Luther King Jr. had a dream, a big dream and shared it with the nation. His message was one of tolerance, understanding and love. His dream was to fight the hate, intolerance and discrimination without violence. During that time, King was very eminent in Birmingham spreading his message and giving advice on how to create change in a nonviolent matter.

Carolyn McKinstry, a 14 year-old African American girl growing up in Birmingham, was fully aware of what was going on during that time. And for McKinstry, Sept. 15, 1963 started out like any other Sunday - off with her two brothers to church for Sunday school. As she made her way to church, little did she know in just a few short hours, her life would change dramatically all because of the hate and the turmoil, and McKinstry, along with members and visitors of the Sixteenth Street Church would become victims that Sunday of a crime fueled by the racial discrimination that ran deep in the roots of the south.

McKinstry, author of “While the World Watched,” recounted her story as she addressed the crowd in January at the Suwanee Branch of the Gwinnett County Public Library about her book and the tragic event that took place that Sunday in 1963.

She said she wrote the book to provide a look into history.

“I want future generations to have a historically accurate account of what actually happened,” she said.

As a young girl, McKinstry took an active role in spreading King’s message, and the church was a meeting location where King frequently visited and spoke of his message.

“We understood clearly what Dr. King was trying to change,” McKinstry said. “And what we were trying to change.”

During that time McKinstry took on the role as the church secretary. The morning of the bombing, she said around 10:15 a.m., she headed upstairs to take care of her reports. But first, she stopped by the bathroom where she chatted with several of her friends about youth day at the church and exciting plans they had later that day.

McKinstry said she made it upstairs and answered a phone call. The male caller on the other end of the line simply said “three minutes,” and by the time she stepped into the sanctuary, the bomb exploded. Four of McKinstry’s friends that were in the bathroom died in the explosion.

She recalled that at the time of the Sixteenth Street Church bombing, there were about 80 unsolved bombings and bombings had become a way of life.

Since then the building has been renovated and the area where the girls were has been sealed off. Dignitaries and other well-known people continue to visit the church, as a place where people died as a result of the bombing.

Read more about McKinstry's personal account in her book "While the World Watched".

McKinstry's visit to the library is just one of many events held by the Gwinnett County Public Library. For more information and upcoming events, visit gcpl.org.

“I want future generations to have a historically accurate account of what actually happened.”

- Author Carolyn McKinstry

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Happenings in the Suwanee School Clusters

schools Operation Drive Smart at North Gwinnett High

- Lanier Middle School Teacher, Paul Murphy

Teacher on list for kidney transplant

A

A concert featuring several teacher spends much of their local bands, “Live 4 Music,” is being time using skills, talents and held March 9 at the Lanier High education to teach and School Theater. Doors open at 7 to foster the children in p.m. and music will begin the community. Paul at 7:30 p.m. Donations Murphy, a special will be collected and needs teacher at Lanier all proceeds will go to Middle School in Sugar benefit a matching grant Hill, is such a teacher fund for Paul Murphy at who said he strives to for Paul Murphy teach his students by the Georgia Transplant Foundation. inspiring them.

Murphy, who has But Murphy has 7pm always been a music lover polycystic kidney disease, a genetic kidney Lanier High School and leads the Guitar Club at the middle school, said disease where clusters Theater a relaxing evening of live of fluid filled sacs called music was something he cysts develop in the could get excited about. kidneys and interfere with their ability “It’s going to be a great show and a to remove toxins and waste from the blood. As a result the kidneys become fun night,” he said.

In the meantime, Murphy, who enlarged, and eventually, the disease is otherwise in good health, said he’s can lead to kidney failure. working to remain healthy doing After living with the disease since birth, Murphy is currently on the list to everything that his doctors tell him to do.

“I feel very fortunate,” Murphy said. receive a kidney transplant.

Live 4 Music BENEFIT CONCERT March 9th

Donations can be made online: www.gatransplant.org/client/pcmurphy.

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Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

I MAR / APR 12

North Gwinnett High School seniors joined fifteen other Georgia schools from across the state in January for the Operation Drive Smart Senior Challenge.

The 637 seniors want to help remove Gwinnett County from the top three counties in Georgia known for teenage vehicle crashes, injuries and deaths. On Jan. 9 the participating seniors signed a Senior Promise to just drive and avoid distractions that all too often are leading to vehicle crashes which have placed Gwinnett County in the top three for the past ten years. The other two counties include DeKalb and Fulton County.

North Gwinnett seniors that signed the “Senior Promise” received an Operation Drive Smart specially minted challenge chip as a keep sake and reminder that in a split second, their life can be forever changed.

schools

Gwinnett County School Board Shifts District Lines With the large population growth Gwinnett County has recently experienced (especially Suwanee, Sugar Hill, Grayson and Dacula), the school board has shifted the dial and redrawn the district lines. With the II reapportionment, North Gwinnett High School, Lanier III Middle, Level Creek Elementary and Suwanee Elementary as well as some other Suwanee schools welcome District III V I representative, Dr. Mary Kay IV Murphy, as their new board µ member. Mary Kay is in her 16th year with the Gwinnett County Current District Lines Board of Education.

The board members have a lot of interaction with the schools. Mary Kay says that in addition to her biological children, she has “163,000 other children.” She frequently attends school events and said she enjoys getting to know the students and their families.

“The district lines are drawn according to major intersections,” Mary Kay explains. “The new arrangement is very complimentary. There are many opportunities to work together on behalf of the children. The Board members share best practices in each school through communication and visitation.”

While she welcomes the new Suwanee schools, she is also excited to keep many schools in Norcross, Peachtree Ridge and Duluth.

School board members are elected by the residents. Some of the responsibilities of the school board members include setting policies for all activities and operations, making sure the practices match the policies, employing and reviewing the superintendent on behalf of the citizens and setting and reviewing the budget.

GCPS BOE Districts 2012

Lanier MS

White Oak ES

Sycamore ES

Buford City Schools

Lanier

Buice School

Sugar Hill ES

Riverside ES

Jones MS

Ivy Creek ES

Harmony ES

Lanier HS

North Gwinnett HS

Patrick ES

Roberts ES

North Gwinnett

Puckett's Mill ES

Suwanee ES

Mountain View HS

Rock Springs ES

Twin Rivers MS

Burnette ES

Chattahoochee ES

Hull MS

Duluth HS New Life Duluth Monarch School

Simpson ES

Fort Daniel ES

Mulberry ES

Freeman's Mill ES

Woodward Mill ES

Collins Hill HS Taylor ES

Mason ES

Jackson ES

Harris ES

Duluth MS

Walnut Grove ES

Parsons ES ISC Peachtree Ridge HS

Peachtree Ridge

Duluth

Pinckneyville MS

Berkeley Lake ES

Mountain View Dyer ES

Dacula ES

Creekland MS

Collins Hill INC Phoenix HS

Norcross HS

Chesney ES

New Life Norcross

Dacula

Norcross

Radloff MS

Rockbridge ES

Moore MS

Berkmar

Cedar Hill ES Richards MS

Sweetwater MS

Alford ES Bethesda ES

Meadowcreek HS

Meadowcreek ES

Meadowcreek

Kanoheda ES

Corley ES

Beaver Ridge ES

Alcova ES

Jenkins ES

Central Gwinnett

Maxwell HS Benefield ES GSMST Central Gwinnett HS Hooper Renwick Lawrenceville ES

Ferguson ES

Norcross ES GIVE West/ Summerour MS GOC

Stripling ES

Harbins ES

Simonton ES

Winn Holt ES Oakland Meadow School

Hopkins ES

Berkmar HS

Lilburn MS

Archer HS

Crews MS

Berkmar MS

Starling ES

Craig ES

Trickum MS

Knight ES

Nesbit ES

Couch MS

Gwin Oaks ES

Five Forks MS

Pharr ES

Brookwood HS

McConnell MS

Grayson ES

Bay Creek MS Trip ES

Grayson HS

Camp Creek ES

Parkview HS

Parkview

Cooper ES

Grayson

Brookwood ES

Brookwood

Arcado ES

Archer

Lovin ES

Minor ES

Lilburn ES

Dacula MS

Dacula HS

GIVE East

McKendree ES

Ivy Prep

Peachtree ES

Mill Creek HS Osborne MS Duncan Creek ES

Mill Creek

North Gwinnett MS

Level Creek ES

Head ES

Britt ES South Gwinnett HS

Grace Snell MS

Mountain Park ES

Magill ES

Shiloh ES Shiloh MS

Shiloh HS Centerville ES

Shiloh

Snellville MS

South Gwinnett Rosebud ES

Norton ES

Annistown ES

Partee ES

Anderson-Livsey ES

January 26, 2012

Cindy Newman, Assistant Principal Level Creek Elementary and Grey Brinson, Winner of the Level Creek Spelling Bee

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people&places

Suwanee Business Alliance February Meeting

Sweetheart Sprint FEBRUARY 11th, 2012 TOWN CENTER PARK

FEBRUARY 8th, 2012 ACADEMY FORE GOLF

PHOTOS I JULIE PERDUE

Winner of 11-14 girls Ashlyn Mumme and Duane Champlin Event Coordinator

Overall winner Peyton Hoyal and Rotary member Dawn Pogue

Tu-Tu runners

TheMarriageProm Suwanee 2012 TM

Presented by PassionateSpouse.com FEBRUARY 4th, 2012

NORTH GWINNETT HIGH SCHOOL

SBA President Ed Szczesniak presents $500 check to the SPCA Run for the Rescues

PHOTOS I LILY McGREGOR PHOTOGRAPHY

Elizabeth Tralongo, Mary Warren and Debbie Williams welcome Dr. Mary Kay Murphy to the North Gwinnett Community

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Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

I MAR / APR 12

John Lowery and Glenna Tanner

people & places

Suwanee State of the City Address JANUARY 11th, 2012 CITY HALL PHOTOS I JULIE PERDUE

Jessica Roth and Jimmy Burnette

Author Carolyn McKinstry JANUARY 26th, 2012 SUWANEE BRANCH OF THE GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY PHOTOS I JULIE PERDUE

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Upcoming Suwanee Events

calendar

March 2012 9

Live for Music benefit for Paul Murphy

Friday, March 9th @ 7pm Lanier High School Theater

Concert featuring several local bands. Donations will be collected and all proceeds will go to benefit a matching grant fund for Paul Murphy at the Georgia Transplant Foundation.

10 Arbor Day 11 Daylight Savings Begins 17

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Suwanee Magazine suwaneemagazine.com

Spring Plein Air Event

St. Patrick's Day Shamrock Run Saturday, March 17th @ 8am Town Center Park Sponsored by Suwanee Kiwanis

Saturday, March 31st & Sunday, April 1st All Around Suwanee

First Day of Spring

The North Gwinnett Arts Association is sponsoring the Second Annual Spring Plein Air Event March 31 and April 1.

During the two-day event painters, photographers and mixed media artists will be creating artworks all around the Suwanee, primarily in the public parks, competing for prizes that will be awarded at a reception held Sunday evening where artwork will be on exhibit and for sale. For information and registration, visit www. suwaneepleinair.com.

Run for the Rescues 5K and Fun Run Saturday, March 24th @ 9am Town Center Park Sponsored by Georgia SPCA

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calendar

31

2nd Annual 2012 Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest

Saturday, March 31st @ 1pm Town Center Park Presented by The Growler Store, the second annual Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest is a celebration of the rich brewing styles of America's finest breweries. The event will feature a sampling of more than 200 beers while listening to live music at Town Center Park in the heart of Suwanee. This year’s festival also includes a home brew competition, silent auction with beer related paraphernalia and cooking demonstrations by Kroger chefs utilizing beer as an ingredient in some fantastic recipes. A portion of the festival proceeds and all silent auction proceeds will be donated to KINGDOM KIDS. Food will also be available for purchase from a variety of vendors on site. Tickets available online at SuwaneeBeerFest.com

April 2012

22 Earth Day

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Gwinnett County Schools Spring Break

Suwanee Business Annual Alliance Golf Tournament

6 Good Friday 8

Easter Community Sunrise Service Sunday, April, 8th @ 6:30am Town Center Park

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Atlanta’s Greatest Hits Birthday Bash Saturday, April, 14th @ Noon Town Center Park

Super 21 Suwanee's Incredible Race

Saturday, April, 21st @ Noon Town Center Park

Tuesday, April, 24th @ 8am Hamilton Mill Golf Course

This tournament raises funds for a variety of causes in our own community and is one of the most fun local events of the year.

at Town Center 26 Toast Thursday, April, 26th @ 6pm Town Center Park

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