Personal Care Home for the Elderly
Savannah Plantation enjoys a 25-year tradition of providing quality care at a reasonable rate. We offer all the services you’ll find at larger facilities, for half the cost. On average, we save families over $20,000 yearly in elderly care services.
ALL-INCLUSIVE INDEPENDENT LIVING RATES STARTING AT
2,450
$
per mo.
Savannah Plantation
102 Level Creek Rd. Buford, GA Admissions: 404-680-6896
SavannahPlantation.com Savannah Plantation Personal Care Homes Inc. savannah_plantation SavannahPlanta1
Georgia State License no. 067-02-011-1
QUALITY CARE IS BEST MEASURED IN YEARS. SINCE 1994
Savannah Plantation is an exclusive all women’s facility in Buford that is safe, secure, and affordable. • Exclusive All Women’s Facility • 24 Hour Awake Staff • Visiting Physician/ Nurse Practitioner • Visiting Podiatrist • Visiting Lab Services • Daily Laundry Services • Daily Housekeeping Services • 3 Home-Cooked Meals Daily (Special Diets Available) • Visiting Beautician/ Beauty Shop on Premises • Licensed Practical Nurse Compliance Manager • Pharmacy Delivery Services • Cable TV Access in Every Room • Staff To Patient Ratio Exceeds State Regulations • Secure Facility with Alarms • Daily Activities (Guest Singer on Weekends) • Security Cameras in Common Areas • Loving Family Environment
LEADING CARE IN YOUR COMMUNITY. From diagnosis to treatment and recovery, we believe every patient deserves personalized, comprehensive care that fits their needs. That’s why our network of expert providers is dedicated to delivering patient-first care backed by leading treatment options. Discover the power of Northside in your neighborhood. Contact a practice below to schedule your in-person or virtual appointment today.
Our Locations Adult Primary Care Associates
Georgia Colon and Rectal Surgical Associates
575 Professional Drive, Suite 510 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-513-2072 northside.com/apc
721 Wellness Way, Suite 200 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-277-4277 gcrsa.com
Arthritis & Total Joint Specialists
Georgia Gynecologic Oncology
771 Old Norcross Road, Suite 135 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-292-6500 arthritisandtotaljoint.com
Duluth Family & Sports Medicine
3855 Pleasant Hill Road, Suite 100 Duluth, GA 30096 678-312-7800 northside.com/dfsm
759 Old Norcross Road Lawrenceville, GA 30046 678-442-3121 ggo-atl.com
Gwinnett Consultants in Cardiology 755 Walther Road Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-962-4895 gwinnettcardiology.com
Northside Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine
4700 Nelson Brogden Boulevard NE, Suite 125 Buford, GA 30518 678-456-4947 northsidepulmonary.com/npsm
Women’s Specialists of Northside Gwinnett 601A Professional Drive, Suite 310 Lawrenceville, GA 30046 770-643-4115 womensspecialistsng.com
10 Burn Boot Camp Suwanee
32 Lena Towne
Suwanee resident Lena Towne becomes one of the country’s first female Eagle Scouts.
Burn Boot Camp Suwanee offers group workout classes that will inspire and empower you while also transforming your body from the inside out.
34 Suwanee Arts
The Suwanee Arts Center strives to bring arts and cultural activities to the City of Suwanee and surrounding areas.
15 Investment Strategies
Suwanee’s Aileron Investment Advisors, a comprehensive financial planning firm run by father-daughter team Bill and Cindi Porter, has the tools you need to invest in your future.
36 Faces of Suwanee
Chick-fil-A Moore Road's hostess Ms. A.J. is on a mission to brighten everyone’s day with good old-fashioned customer service with a smile.
39 Family Matters
Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption can have positive effects on mental health, similar to the positive effects of physical exercise.
Bare Bones Steakhouse Buford’s favorite steakhouse reopens in a brand-new location complete with a private vault, two-story elevator and patio dining.
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PHOTO BY GARY DOWD
JAN/FEB 21
16
Fit Over 60
From biking and hiking to yoga and weight training, these 10 individuals have made a lifetime commitment to their health and fitness.
40 Heal Yourself 360
The biggest challenge patients face when choosing a chiropractor is quite often, patients aren’t sure what type of chiropractor they are seeing, or how to choose the right chiropractor for their needs.
42 Revive IV Lounge
IV therapy is the use of intravenous vitamins, minerals and amino acids to boost one’s wellness.
PHOTO BY GARY DOWD
45 Nana G's Chicken & Waffles
Beloved food truck sets up shop in Suwanee and brings its family recipes with it.
54 What's Brewing
Suwanee’s StillFire Brewing wins big at national competition.
IN EVERY ISSUE: 6 Editor’s Letter 9 Currently Loving 56 The Buzz
60 Sugar Hill City Buzz 62 People & Places 65 Event Calendar
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letter
a note from our managing editor
Fit Through Every Season T’S THAT TIME of year again when we start to re-evaluate all the common themes that the new year brings: our finances, careers, hobbies and habits, among others. Topping that list more often than not, however, is our overall health and fitness. Considering the year we just had, health is certainly top of mind for many people. Many of us, driven by staying home more than we’re used to, gyms closing, and other factors, have likely gained weight. For others, our mental well-being has likely been impacted by the difficult year. Whatever it may be, now is the time to refocus our energy within, in order to take care of our mind, body and spirit. If you need motivation look no further than p. 16. We sought out members of our community who are keeping fit at age 60 and beyond. From hiking and biking to weight lifting and yoga, the 10 people we’ve highlighted in “Fit Over 60” are committed to their health for the long term. For them, the adage “age is just a number” certainly rings true. We enjoyed getting to know all of them and learning more about their stories and motivations for staying healthy. If you’re feeling inspired to finally take the next step toward your fitness goals, check out Burn Boot Camp Suwanee, which opened in November 2020 and offers group workout classes that will inspire and empower you while also transforming your body from the inside out. Their 45-minute boot camp-style classes incorporate both cardio and strength training with a different focus each day. We caught up with co-owner Ronda Harvey to learn more about the Burn Boot Camp Suwanee experience on p. 10. Turn to p. 32 to read about Suwanee resident Lena Towne’s inspiring story. Lena recently became one of the country’s first female Eagle Scouts after earning more than 25 merit badges, holding multiple leadership roles, and leading a large-scale project to renovate the Sunday School room at her home church — no small feat! Lena says obtaining the title was a lot of hard work, but very fulfilling because she was able to follow in the footsteps of her brother and grandfather.
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For our annual Fitness Issue, we profiled 10 members of our community who are staying fit at age 60 and beyond. Whether they hike, bike, weight train or practice yoga, they know that keeping their health a top priority will have a major impact on their daily lives.
A new year also brings us a new favorite restaurant because Nana G’s Chicken and Waffles recently opened in Suwanee. Long heralded for their beloved chicken and waffles recipe — crafted from the owner’s grandmother’s original recipe — the family restaurant will no doubt become a new hangout spot for many of us. Read more about the menu and the story behind Nana G’s on p. 45. In this issue we also feature stories about Bare Bones Steakhouse’s new location, p. 50, Suwanee Arts Center, p. 34, and Miss. A.J., p. 36, who’s been greeting diners at Chick-fil-A on Moore Road for a number of years. Overall, we’re excited to kick off the new year with an issue filled with local stories and businesses that we’re looking foward to seeing thrive in 2021. Wishing you a happy and healthy new year.
ALICIA CARTER, MANAGING EDITOR Alicia@suwanee magazine.com
ON THE COVER: Weylene Branscombe photographed on Dec. 3 by Gary Dowd.
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ANGELA VEUGELER President / Editor-in-Chief angela@suwaneemagazine.com RANDALL VEUGELER Vice President and Publisher ALICIA CARTER Managing Editor TAMMY LUNEY Ad Manager ads@suwaneemagazine.com
Creative Director RANDALL VEUGELER Art Director ERICA ABRAMS Writers LIZZY JAMES • NATALIE GARRETT Production Manager APRIL MILLER Web Editors CLARKE GLIDEWELL • CHRIS LEGG Graphic Design SHAY HARBAUGH LAURA HOLCOMBE
Photographers KARL LAMB • JULIE PERDUE GARY DOWD
JULIE PERDUE Executive Sales and Business Development julie@suwaneemagazine.com
Published by VEUGELER DESIGN GROUP 554 W. Main Street, Suite 200 Buford, GA 30518 SuwaneeMagazine.com For SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES or BACK ISSUE ORDERS, call 678-482-2270. For ADVERTISING INQUIRES, call 678-482-2270, or email info@suwaneemagazine.com.
Suwanee Magazine is published bi-monthly by Veugeler Design Group. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2021 Veugeler Design Group. The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Alicia Carter at Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com.
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BEST SUWANEE GIFT
Snapshots of the food, shops, events and more we’re loving around town.
Best Specialty Coffees, Teas and Desserts BEST LOCAL TREATS
IF YOU LOVE macarons
and specialty coffee and tea, then I encourage you to try TADA Coffee & Dessert in Suwanee. They opened in July of 2020 and my coworkers and I have stopped in to grab a dessert and drink at least once a week. My personal favorite macaron flavor is the Double Vanilla. I know, it sounds really simple, but the flavor is AMAZING. I’ve also been on a matcha kick and their Iced Green Tea Matcha Latte has been my go-to. And to make them even more amazing, they also have online ordering! Check out all of the delicious treats they have to offer at TadaCoffeeShop.com. - Laura Holcombe, Graphic Artist
BEST FAMILY FUN
CHRISTMAS may be over, but
BEST FAMILY FUN
we’re keeping the spirit of the season going with family trips to Sugar Hill’s ice-skating rink. The rink, an annual tradition for many families in the community, brings about 15,000 people to Sugar Hill annually, and is the largest outdoor “real ice” rink in the Southeast. For the full schedule, visit HaidRink.com.
Best Suwanee Swag
WE LOVE nothing better than getting an awesome item while supporting a great cause! Suwanee Arts Center at Town Center is selling “Suwanee” signs in multiple colors and it looks great with any decor! Stop by and pick up your new Suwanee sign today and help support our local artists.
- Tammy Luney, Ad Manager
BEST BINGO NIGHT MY FRIENDS and I are currently loving going to Soundcheck Bingo at StillFire Brewing on Thursday nights! Soundcheck kicks off weekly at 7 p.m. and is a lot like bingo, but with music. The host plays a 30-second snippet of a song and the players must determine the name of the artist for the song. First person to get the correct songs in a row wins! It’s such a fun night out, and a little friendly competition never hurt anyone!
BEST DATE NIGHT
For a list of events at StillFire Brewing, visit StillFireBrewing.com. - Lizzy James, Contributing Writer
- Alicia Carter, Managing Editor
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B U S I N E S S
S P O T L I G H T
FEEL THE
BURN!
Burn Boot Camp Suwanee offers group workout classes that will inspire and empower you while transforming your body from the inside out. By Alicia Carter / Photos by Karl Lamb
ALKING INTO a Burn Boot Camp class is like walking into a pep rally where everyone is rooting for you. From the trainers to the members working out beside you, the general vibe is that of empowerment and camaraderie. Even if they had to trade high fives for air fives due to COVID, the feeling of support remains the same. It’s no surprise their motto is to “inspire, empower, transform,” and they do just that through challenging 45-minute cardio and strength-training workouts. While the focus on the floor — more about that later — is to strengthen and condition the physical body, the overall goal is to transform the lives of everyone who walks through their doors. Burn Boot Camp Suwanee opened on Nov. 9, 2020, off of Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road. Overseeing the new location are owners Burn Boot Camp Suwanee Head Trainer, Roy Bean and franchise partners David and Ronda Harvey, who also own the Johns Creek and Roswell locations. Ronda says her passion lies in motivating people in their health and fitness. But as a former Beach Body online coach, she says she was missing the in-person
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community that a gym setting provides, which ultimately led her to Burn Boot Camp. “I was at another gym and liked their layout but there was still no community,” Ronda says. “I walked into Burn on a grand-opening day and I knew that this was my jam! I’m a deconditioned woman and even though the workouts look intense, there are plenty of modifications to keep you moving. I’m a cheerleader so I just loved encouraging others even when I was clearly struggling the most [laughs] — but loving every minute of it.”
Burn Boot Camp offers 45-minute workout classes that combine cardio and strength training.
THE BURN SUWANEE EXPERIENCE Burn Boot Camp focuses on boot camp-style workouts that mix in weights, cardio, burst training, stacks and more. “You’ll never have the same workout twice,” Ronda says. Each camp starts off with a three- to five-minute warm-up that Ronda says could match any other brand’s entire workout. While intense, the warm-ups and workouts in general can be modified for any fitness level. “This community truly is for all fitness levels with the attention on each member and their own fitness needs,” she says. Following the warm-up, the trainer leads members through a 35-minute workout that, while the same across all Burn locations (think upper body on Monday, lower body on
Burn trainers provide effective one-on-one training in a group setting allowing each member to reach their unique goals.
The high-intensity classes can be modified to any fitness level.
Tuesday, cardio on Wednesday, etc.), the local gyms each add their own spin determined by the location’s trainers. Each camp ends with a five-minute “finisher” that gives everyone an opportunity to complete the workout while giving it their all. Roy Bean takes the helm as Burn Boot Camp Suwanee’s head trainer. “Roy was on our training team in Roswell and Johns Creek and I saw amazing potential in him from day one. He actually moved to the Atlanta area to become a Burn trainer because he saw how amazing the brand was and wanted to be a part of it,” Ronda says. “He fits in well and exemplifies the Burn brand with his close attention to detail of personal training in a group environment. He genuinely cares for each individual.” While the trainers and the members truly make the Burn experience what it is, most Burn newbies will leave their workout raving about Burn’s floating floor. Perfect for all fitness levels, the floating floor absorbs the impact, leading to less wear and tear on the body. “Our floating floor helps our joints to not receive the impact,” Ronda says. “Instead our muscles get more impact and more of a workout!” KEEPING SAFE WHILE KEEPING FIT Following COVID, Burn Boot Camp Suwanee has added extra measures to keep its members safe. “We encourage keeping 6 feet apart and have a section of the floor for those who want
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Burn Boot Camp’s motto is to “inspire, empower, transform” and they do just that through challenging 45-minute cardio and strength-training workouts. “You’ll never have the same workout here twice,” says Ronda Harvey, co-owner of Burn Boot Camp’s newest location in Suwanee.
Burn Boot Camp’s unique floating floor absorbs the impacts of the workout which causes less wear and tear on the body and is especially helpful for those with knee or joint issues.
to social distance more,” Ronda says. In addition, the staff cleans in between each camp and the floor is sprayed with a germ-killing disinfectant. The Burn trainers encourage “sanitize in and sanitize out” with multiple sanitation stations. Members are asked to wear a mask “from door to floor” as well as to wipe down their equipment at the end of camp. “We want you to be comfortable and we want you to take care of yourself during this season of isolation,” she says. Live Zoom classes are also available for those who want to
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BUSINESS
“We encourage keeping 6 feet apart and have a section of the floor that is for those who want to social distance more.”
READY TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE? • 45-minute workouts focused on both cardio and strength training • Never the same workout twice • Designed for all levels and child watch services provided
LET US BE YOUR NEW YEAR’S SOLUTION. TRY US OUT 7-DAYS FOR
FREE EXP 2/28/21
3255 LAWRENCEVILLE SUWANEE RD, SUITE 10-S SUWANEE, GA 30024 • 678-226-9911 BURNBOOTCAMP.COM/SUWANEE-GA
- Burn Boot Camp Owner, Ronda Harvey
participate in the classes, but aren’t ready to return to an in-person group environment. Burn Boot Camp offers a safe space for people of all fitness levels to come together with a common goal: to get healthy. The combination of the direction and encouragement of the Burn trainers and staff along with the challenging yet fun workouts creates the ultimate environment for those looking to try something new. If you’re ready to take the next step, but not sure if you’re ready to commit, Burn Boot Camp Suwanee offers a free seven day trial. “We encourage everyone at all fitness levels to give us a try!” Ronda says. ■
Burn Boot Camp Suwanee is located at 3255 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road. For information, call 678-226-9911 or visit BurnBootCamp.com/locations/suwanee-ga. To see snippets of their workouts, follow them on Facebook and Instagram at @burnbootcampsuwaneega.
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INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
BUSINESS
BY: Bill and Cindi Porter, AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS
Q: HOW CAN I INVEST IN
A SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE MANNER? There are two major options. Investors want to make money with their investment dollars, but many also want to remain true to their social philosophy as well. The first choice in pursuing that double agenda is to invest only in mutual funds which exclude stocks from certain industries such as tobacco, alcohol, oil, etc. There are many such funds. The second choice, “impact weighted accounting,” is a newer concept introduced by Ronald Cohen. If a company makes a product but also pollutes a river in the process, both the positive and negative financial factors are accounted for before the “profits” are established. Cohen chaired a study at Harvard Business School that published the environmental damage of 1,800 companies. It revealed that 252 of the companies created more environmental damage than corporate profits.* That is a societal loss – not a profit. Yet the stocks of many of those 252 firms performed very well. Some companies are designing their products to align with social responsibility. Tesla is a good example. Its battery-powered vehicles may reshape the auto industry if enough consumers feel that is a worthy goal. In October 2020, at the annual meeting of Procter & Gamble, two-thirds of the shareholders voted against management because of deforestation associated with the production of some of its products. While the investment choices for companies who have been valued on a “impacted-weighted” accounting basis is small compared to the number of mutual funds that exclude certain industries, the number is growing. Investing in companies whose products target solutions for societal problems such as pollution, deforestation, and other negative factors might offer investors more upside than by simply excluding certain industries from a portfolio. The future is coming. Your trusted advisor should help you invest for it. ■ Source: Barron’s, November 30, 2020 pages 28-29
Securities and advisory services offered through Madison Avenue Securities, LLC (MAS), member FINRA/SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor. MAS and Aileron Investment Advisors are not affiliated entities. All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. This information is not intended to be used as the sole basis for financial decisions, nor should it be construed as advice to meet the particular needs of an individual’s situation. Please note, it is not possible to invest directly into particular Index; this measure is provided solely as a benchmark of overall market performance. Results from the use of these concepts are no guarantee of your future success.
Send your investment questions to: submissions@ SuwaneeMagazine.com
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FIT OVER
FROM BIKING AND HIKING TO YOGA AND WEIGHT TRAINING, THESE TEN INDIVIDUALS HAVE MADE A LIFETIME COMMITMENT TO THEIR HEALTH AND FITNESS. AFTER ALL, AGE REALLY IS JUST A NUMBER. BY ALICIA CARTER / PHOTOS BY GARY DOWD
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time of year again, when the new year brings about new resolutions to finally get fit and stay healthy. And considering the year we just had, it’s likely that a number of us are reevaluating our relationship to our health. Dealing with the stressball year that was 2020 led many of us to make poor choices that inevitably packed on the pounds. Plus, stay-at-home orders, closed gyms, and social distancing also put a damper on our motivation to work out. For our annual Fitness Issue, however, we sought out motivation from those in our community who have maintained their health and fitness for the long term. For these ten individuals, the adage “age is just a number” certainly rings true. From biking and hiking to yoga and weight training, our Fit Over 60 group is setting a great example for the community at large. After all, what better motivation to finally commit to getting healthy than highlighting those in our community who have maintained good health and remained active in their 60s and beyond? For us, they are the true definition of #FitnessInspiration. T’S THAT
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CRIS TOWNSEND AGE: 64 CITY: Suwanee
Aside from a little snow skiing while living in Upstate New York, Cris didn’t truly start exercising until she met her husband, Scott, in college. “I started exercising more because he was very fit,” she says. Her entrance into exercise began with running. Then when the couple moved to Georgia, she started lifting weights and says it all progressed from there. Now, she and Scott log 30 miles cycling three to four times a week, and even more often in the summer months. “My main motivation is to be able to stay healthy and maintain a consistent level of stamina, strength and flexibility as I age,” she says. “As they say, a body in motion stays in motion.”
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
I used to run but never really loved it, so I transitioned to more group exercise classes and weight training. During the ’90s, Scott and I were both spin instructors and that is how we got into cycling. We had a group of friends who biked — mountain and road — and they convinced us to buy bikes and "come outside." We've been riding now for over 15 years and that's my main cardio exercise. I still strength train and I also participate in various group exercise classes, from HIIT to yoga to spin.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND CYCLING FOR ALL AGES AS IT'S VERY SOCIAL...” Cris Townsend
If you are younger, I'd say find something you love that fits your schedule so you'll stick with it. If you want to meet other people, check out a run club or cycling group ride. If you're older and want to start an exercise program, I'd say be kind to your body. Don't take up running if you have bad knees. I highly recommend cycling for all ages as it's very social — it's challenging for any level, it's easy on your joints, and it's "free" once you buy the gear. Weight training is also great for all ages and levels. But remember that while exercise is important, it's only half the equation. You can't out-train a bad diet. You have to do the work in the kitchen, too!
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HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
SCOTT TOWNSEND AGE: 65 CITY: Suwanee
PHOTO BY NATALIE GARRETT
Scott Townsend describes himself as your basic jock. “I played sports in high school, basketball in college, and rugby until I was 43 for The Atlanta Old White Rugby Club, so therefore I have always had some decent level of fitness,” he says. Scott met his wife, Cris, in college and the two have been married for 37 years. The couple shares a love for staying active and can regularly be seen cycling from Suwanee Town Center through downtown Buford all the way across Waterworks Road to Lake Lanier — and back. The trip totals roughly 30 miles. “I would say my motivation for staying fit is to feel better on a daily basis and for obvious health reasons as well,” Scott says. “The more calories I burn the more I can visit StillFire Brewing!”
I have a torn ACL from a Rugby injury in 1989. Over the years, it became harder to run long distances, so in 2006 my wife, Cris, and I took up cycling. It is a great cardio workout, and you can also test your Anaerobic threshold through group rides and riding the gaps in the North Georgia mountains if you wish. Cris and I don't ride the gaps much anymore, but we still enjoy the road rides. I also go to the gym (Georgia Fitness) to lift weights. I am trying to keep some form of muscle mass. It seems harder the older you get.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
Everything in moderation. Don't deprive yourself too severely. To me, fad diets don't work. It is a lifestyle change that you are looking for. Cris and I try to eat healthy and train hard during the week and then on the weekends reward ourselves with a little treat — pizza, etc. Work hard, play hard. Have fun in life.
EVERYTHING IN MODERATION.” 20
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PATRICIA HOLT
AGE: 82 CITY: Lawrenceville
In 2010, Patricia was involved in a near-fatal accident that left most of her right side broken. “At the end of physical therapy my shoulder curved toward my chin,” she says. ”I couldn’t walk long distances, like at the airport, without severe swelling in my knees and a
BECAUSE I WANT TO STAY STRONG AND UPRIGHT, WE FOCUS ON BODY MECHANICS, BALANCE, AND ARM, LEG AND CORE STRENGTH AND STABILITY.”
burning pain on the bottoms of my feet.” Patricia eventually moved to Lawrenceville where she met Terry Gatewood of Physique Refinements in Suwanee. Terry was instrumental in turning Patricia’s life around by helping to improve her health and strength. “I love to travel, and all I wanted was to carry my own suitcase and keep up,” she says. “He has made my wish come true! My shoulder is back in place. I don’t use a wheelchair at the airport, and I put my suitcase in the overhead unassisted.”
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
I began seeing Terry Gatewood of Physique Refinements twice a week, then three times, and now, until COVID ends, four times a week. Because he sees only one client at a time, I don’t make mistakes with the weights or injure myself. Each program is customized for each client. Because I want to stay strong and upright, we focus on body mechanics, balance, and arm, leg and core strength and stability. I pull 80 pounds, push 120 pounds, do 120 ab crunches with weights, and do all my leg and arm exercises with a variety of weights. At the beginning, when I said I couldn’t lift or pull or push, Terry’s response was always, “Yet.” I walk two miles on
the treadmill on days I’m not doing weight training.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
Cost means nothing when it comes to protecting your health. Consider training as preventive care. When I was told I needed a pacemaker for the heart laceration I received in the accident, Terry told me I could pass the stress test that the doctors said would be too much for me. I passed. When I was told I needed a knee replacement, Terry told me we’d build the muscles around the knee. Eight years later I have neither the pacemaker nor artificial knees. I credit Terry with saving my physical stability. I’m still traveling and still keeping up!
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PHOTO BY NATALIE GARRETT
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
My main form of exercise is DVD workouts in my basement. Before COVID I worked out at Gold's Gym on Saturdays, where I did a one-hour spin class and lifted heavier weights. I run 2.5 to 4 miles at least once per week and usually walk that far several times a week with my wife and dog. I also do some hiking and biking when the weather is nice. I definitely miss the spin class. I usually work out six times a week. Diet goes hand-in-hand with exercise. I am not a fanatic but I generally try and eat more protein and less carbs and stay away from sugars and fried foods. I mostly choose red wine over beer.
MAKE THE DECISION TO DO IT IN YOUR HEAD AND DO IT ”
BILL HORNSBY
AGE: 60 CITY: Flowery Branch Bill, who recently moved to Flowery Branch with his wife, says he hasn’t always been as fit as he is today. At around age 45, he discovered a series of at-home workout videos that changed his life. Now at age 60, Bill has a body that many half his age would love to have, and he credits it all to at-home workouts. “I started with P90X a number of years ago and went through all of those series,” he says. “Now I’m doing Body Beast. It's a series of DVDs that focus on individual body parts: chest, arms, back, shoulders, legs. So every day you are working a different body part.”
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
Make the decision to do it in your head and do it. It's not so easy starting out, but it will get easier after a few weeks. Stick with it. Try and find a partner (spouse/friend) to join you. Mix it up to keep it interesting. Try and incorporate some weights with some cardio. Track your progress to stay motivated. If you are using weights, you may not have weight loss because you're replacing fat with muscle. Watch for changes in how your body looks and how you feel.
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KEN AND WEYLENE BRANSCOMBE AGE: Both 71 CITY: Suwanee
For Ken and Weylene, getting fit has been a lifelong quest. As children they were outside as much as possible; they played sports and were involved in other extracurricular activities. That active lifestyle carried over into college, and now, as married adults, Ken and Weylene both recognize the health benefits — mental and physical — of leading and maintaining an active lifestyle, even while juggling children and careers. Ken, a retired businessman, remains active by hiking weekly. Weylene, a retired Gwinnett high school teacher, is part of the ALTA tennis league. Both also participate in walking and working out at the gym multiple times a week.
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT? For almost 50 years now, even after children arrived, we continued to play year round tennis, walking, lifting a few weights at the gym, and running. We’ve participated in more than 25 Peachtree Road Races including last year’s 50th anniversary and this year’s “remote” 10K. We also hike in various locations around the world, including Georgia to Maine on the Appalachian Trail. We lived in Amsterdam from 1994-1998, and have continued to travel and
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tour internationally two or three times a year for more than 20 years.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT? In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, and age “gracefully,” exercise is a key and very necessary component. Exercise done on a consistent basis becomes a daily habit, eventually becoming akin to brushing your teeth, i.e., you just don’t feel right going through the
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day without doing it. And, most everyone enjoys eating, and exercise allows for a vibrant and varied diet while offsetting the extra calories we all seem to indulge in, especially during the holidays. Probably one of the greatest benefits of an active lifestyle is that it helps one to be energized. Even taking in a short walk on a hectic and busy day is just about guaranteed to make you feel better!
PROBABLY ONE OF THE GREATEST BENEFITS OF AN ACTIVE LIFESTYLE IS THAT IT HELPS ONE TO BE ENERGIZED. EVEN TAKING IN A SHORT WALK ON A HECTIC AND BUSY DAY IS JUST ABOUT GUARANTEED TO MAKE YOU FEEL BETTER!” 25
CHERIE HERINGER AGE: 62 CITY: Suwanee
Last spring, Cherie created a Facebook group called “Just B Healthy” where people within the community, mostly women, come together to cheer each other on in their fitness. Members range from people with marathon training goals to others who simply strive to be steady and get their exercise in, such as posting about their daily morning walk. The Facebook group took off and has become a safe space to share victories, ask for advice, hold each other accountable and provide motivation for those who feel stuck in a rut. “My motivation for getting and staying fit at this stage in my life is much different than it was earlier in life,” Cherie says. “Although I still want to look good in my clothes, my higher goal is to feel good and maintain strength and vitality. It takes much more effort now to keep fit, but the payoff is you feel better and I’d rather have a life full of energy than longevity in a lounge chair.”
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
I do a variety of exercises that I feel work best for my body. And I try to do at least 30 minutes a day. Consistency counts! I walk daily. We have a very active schnauzer who requires long walks. But some days I hit the greenway and try to do a 5K. I love yoga. My body loves yoga. And the more you age, the more you need that lengthening and stretching on a daily basis. I follow Be Tru yoga online with Victoria Ladd who is a local instructor and the best I’ve ever worked with. I also do strength training with weights. The best way
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I LOVE YOGA. MY BODY LOVES YOGA. AND THE MORE YOU AGE, THE MORE YOU NEED THAT LENGTHENING AND STRETCHING ON A DAILY BASIS.”
to tone quickly is to use weights. I also cycle with my husband. I love hitting the Silver Comet for a 20 mile ride on Sundays. Other flat low traffic areas are great. The longest I’ve ever ridden was 64 miles for Bike MS. I trained for it and it paid off because the course was hilly and it was a challenge. I really got to the end of myself on that one. I try to eat well. I’m not legalistic about it, but I find I do feel much better eating light and eating less. And alcohol in moderation. I’m not giving it up, but I remind myself how much better I’ll feel in the morning if I
stick to the two drink max rule. Do I always hit all of these? Hardly. But I strive to.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
My advice to anyone is to start slow and be consistent. Move. Just move! If all you can work in is a 15-minute walk, do it. Soon you’ll want to do more and then eventually you’ll find that you have to exercise because your body craves it. The more you give your body what it wants, the more it wants. And the better you feel.
KIMBERLY REED AGE: 63 CITY: Duluth
At 63 years young, Kimberly says her motivation for getting and staying fit is to enjoy a physically active lifestyle as a healthy, independent single mother and grandmother. She credits yoga and daily walks with helping to maintain her health and fitness, and says she loves to hike the North Georgia waterfall trails - exercise with a beautiful view! When asked her advice for those who are looking to make a lifestyle change, she says, “Begin today! You are worth the effort and investment!”
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
Cherie started the Facebook group “Just B Healthy” for people in the community to come together and cheer each other on.
Primarily through daily walks and yoga. Intermittently, I mix in a balance ball and free weight exercises. These are my foundation because they can be done at any age and modified to fit any physical challenges. For example, when I fractured my leg three years ago, I could still do chair-yoga, free weights and balance ball exercises. I’m considering adding bicycling in the spring, for more aerobic activity. I also practice intermittent fasting and eat a high protein diet that is primarily pescatarian/vegetarian, but I indulge in a filet steak or hamburger when the craving strikes.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
BEGIN TODAY! YOU ARE WORTH THE EFFORT AND INVESTMENT!”
Try partner exercising with a friend to stay encouraged. First steps such as choosing a healthy diet, getting sufficient sleep, and a daily physical activity (as little as 20-30 minutes a day) is a good start!
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HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT?
I started training for my first marathon just before I turned 50. At the time I trained with my daughter. We completed that Disney marathon and I was hooked on running. I used to exercise when I would get off work, but other obligations always got in the way. But then, I met Donna Schuster and she would exercise in the morning. So I joined her and we started running in the mornings. We trained for another marathon and since then we have done several races. We meet each morning at about 4:30 a.m. during the week at Suwanee Town Center Park and run a little over 4 miles. Then on Saturdays we do longer runs. I also try to do a Body Pump class at least two days a week. My husband and I like to bike and hike. He and I are frequently on the Suwanee Greenway.
RITA PINCUMBE
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About 16 years ago, Rita made the decision to make a lifestyle change. Like many of us, she was simply looking to shed a few pounds. Along the way, however, Rita met Donna Schuster and they formed a friendship that would not only transform her life but also her health. You can find the pair meeting at Suwanee Town Center at 4:30 in the morning, like clockwork, to run 4 miles together. Rita and Donna are a shining example of how finding an accountability partner — or simply a friend you enjoy being active with — can transform not only your outlook on exercise, but also your overall life. “I love that I can be active with my nine grandchildren,” Rita says. “We can be found out walking to the park … and of course a stop for ice cream.”
The best advice I would give is to find something that you LOVE to do. And it really helps to find someone you can work out with. You can hold each other accountable. Many mornings I feel tired and think I would like to sleep in but I know that Donna will be waiting for me. I must say that even though I may be tired when I start I have amazing energy by the time I am finished and that seems to last all day long. We run even when it is cold or sprinkling, just dress for the occasion — don't let anything STOP you. It must become a habit.
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WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
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THE BEST ADVICE I WOULD GIVE IS TO FIND SOMETHING THAT YOU LOVE TO DO.” Rita Pincumbe
HOW DO YOU CURRENTLY KEEP FIT? I have a wonderful friend, Rita Pincumbe, and we run six days a week. We run 4 miles, at 4:30 a.m., during the week and then try to do a longer run on Saturdays. Since COVID, I also do a 30-minute workout virtually three to five days a week. I’m always up for walking, biking, etc., as time permits.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE TO THOSE WHO WANT TO GET FIT?
DONNA SCHUSTER AGE: 65 CITY: Suwanee
For healthy eating, stick with a plan that works for you. Eat healthy 80% of the time and give yourself 20% to enjoy those guilty pleasures. For exercise, find a time and make an appointment with yourself for exercise. Make it a time when other things won’t interfere.
Donna says that the key to successfully staying fit is to find a workout partner. “Accountability is key,” she says. And that’s exactly what she found in Rita Pincumbe. The two, both in their 60s but exuding the energy of besties in their 20s, have been running together bright and early six days a week for 13 years. “I don’t always feel like getting up at 3:45 every morning, but nothing can interfere with my routine at that time of day,” Donna says. “I know that I will feel so much better after my workout — and Rita is waiting on me.” Her motivation for getting fit is to simply feel good and stay healthy, stressing the basics of regular exercise and a healthy diet. “I want people to know that they can be active well over 60.”
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SUWANEE ARTS CENTER
DELIVERING ARTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES
healthy living and lifestyle tips
health &
wellness
THE FACES OF SUWANEE: MS. A.J. page 36 FAMILY MATTERS page 39 HEAL YOURSELF 360 page 40 REVIVE IV LOUNGE page 42
PHOTO BY KATE AWTRY
A New Era for Eagle Scouts
SUWANEE RESIDENT LENA TOWNE BECOMES ONE OF THE COUNTRY’S FIRST FEMALE EAGLE SCOUTS. BY LIZZY JAMES / PHOTOS COURTESY KIM TOWNE
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n late 2018, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) announced plans to allow all-girl troops to form nationwide. Now just two years later, a Suwanee resident has become one of the country’s first female troop members to earn the rank of Eagle Scout. Lena Towne is a member of Scouts BSA Troop 5109, an all-female troop chartered to the Buford Presbyterian Church. Lena attained the rank of Eagle after earning more than 25 merit badges, holding multiple leadership roles, and leading a large-scale project to renovate the Sunday School room at her home church, Epiphany Lutheran, which included painting a mural, crafting several furniture pieces, and adding storage and seating to the room. We had a chance to catch up with Lena and her troop leader (and mother) Kim Towne to learn more about her journey to becoming an Eagle Scout. 32
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HOW DID A GWINNETT COUNTY FEMALE EAGLE SCOUT TROOP GET STARTED? Kim Towne: Our troop, 5109, was started by me and a wonderful group of adult leaders who already had scouting experience. Many of them had older sons already in the program and I had worked with them through various council and district level leadership positions. Scouts BSA opened its membership to all-female troops in 2019. Girls must be age 11, or have completed the 5th grade, in order to join and may remain members until they are 18 years old. Troop 5109 has members ranging in age from 11 all the way through 18, and we currently have 22 members and we are growing! WHAT IS REQUIRED TO BECOME AN EAGLE SCOUT? Kim Towne: Eagle Scout is a rank that is attained by being an active member of what is called a Scouts BSA troop. Scouts BSA is the rename of traditional Boy Scouts. Troops are only single gender, meaning that a local area will likely have several male-only and
HEALTH & WELLNESS
I am proud to be an example to younger girls, and show them that becoming a female Eagle Scout is attainable. - LENA TOWNE
girl-only troops. Incidentally, the Girl Scouts is still going strong and is a completely separate organization. I liken it to the idea that kids might choose to be involved in two different sports, or two different instruments, etc. The requirements to earn Eagle Scout include a minimum of 21 merit badges, 13 of which are specified and the rest are electives that the scout may choose out of the over 120 available topics. The required badges are what I like to call adulting skills, things like cooking, personal fitness, time management, communication and public speaking skills. There are also the traditional scouting badges such as swimming, camping, etc. In addition to badges, the scouts must complete their journey up through seven ranks. Each rank has its own set of requirements which often include outdoor skills coupled with working with and teaching younger scouts, and holding leadership positions within their troop. There are also service hour requirements, as well as conservation-focused community service components. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO JOIN THE EAGLE SCOUTS? Lena Towne: Although I had also been in Girl Scouts for almost 10 years, I saw an experience that my brother was having in his BSA troop that was different than mine. My mom and I talked about starting a troop with some other friends who might be
interested in more of the high adventure activities that BSA offered, plus I love a challenge and really wanted to attain the rank of Eagle Scout just as my brother and grandpa have. TELL US A LITTLE BIT ABOUT THE SIGNIFICANCE OF BEING ONE OF THE FIRST FEMALE EAGLE SCOUTS? Lena Towne: I am proud to be an example to younger girls, and show them that becoming a female Eagle Scout is attainable. It is a lot of hard work and I spent almost every weekend either working on completing badges, going to camps, or completing paperwork and other steps for my Eagle project. Being one of the first girls going through this process had its own challenges. A lot of the materials still have male pronouns and photos so it felt exclusionary at times. And honestly, some of the older adult male leaders could be critical of my skill level or understanding of a badge or concept, maybe either because I was a girl or because I was learning everything so quickly. But I came into this already having many years of camping and outdoor skill experience through my Girl Scout troop and my family's outdoor camping experiences with Boy Scouts and on our own. WHAT ARE SOME THINGS YOU HAVE PARTICIPATED IN WITH YOUR TROOP? Lena Towne: One of the most memorable camping experiences was when we all went to West Point Military Academy in New York. The cadets there plan a very challenging — and muddy — weekend camping experience for Scouts from across the country. Although we didn't have the best weather, we had an experience of a lifetime. Some girls in our troop went snow camping last year in Minnesota. I chose instead to go on a high adventure outing, where we are living aboard a sailing ship for a week and learning all of the skills necessary to crew it around the Florida Keys.
YOU WERE ALSO DIAGNOSED WITH SCOLIOSIS RIGHT BEFORE TROOP 5109 WAS CHARTERED. HOW DID THAT AFFECT THE PROCESS? Lena Towne: Oh my gosh! I was really upset when I learned I would be wearing a full torso brace 23 hours a day, just one month before our troop started officially camping and meeting. At first I was afraid I would not be able to even attend any of the outings or our weeklong summer camp. Hiking was the hardest part, because we would have to carry backpacks with all of our gear, and it really hurt sometimes to sleep on the ground. But my friends in the troop were really supportive and sometimes they helped carry my gear or helped me set up my tent. No one ever made fun of me and I always felt very welcomed and supported. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT THE EAGLE SCOUT PROGRAM? Lena Towne: I really like advancing through the program and the achievements that scouting offers. I am happiest when I have worked hard to earn a badge or award! DO YOU HAVE ANY PLANS WITH THE EAGLE SCOUTS AFTER HIGH SCHOOL? Lena Towne: The BSA program is only for kids under age 18, but there is a co-ed Venturing program and also Sea Scouts that you can be a member of up to age 21. I might consider joining one of those groups. WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE TO OTHER GIRLS WHO MIGHT WANT TO BECOME AN EAGLE SCOUT? Lena Towne: It is a lot of hard work! I recommend that Scouts tackle the hardest badges first, especially the ones that require several weeks of tracking your activities such as physical fitness or household chores and such. ■ To learn more about Troop 5109, visit Troop5109.com.
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PHOTOS BY CHRIS ANDERSON
A
501(C)(3) NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION
dedicated to promoting the appreciation of local art through classes, exhibitions, festivals and other arts education, the Suwanee Arts Center strives to bring arts and cultural activities to the City of Suwanee and surrounding areas. Based at Suwanee Town Center, the Arts Center maintains an open membership policy where artists of all types, as well as art lovers, are welcome to be a part of the organization. The Arts Center hosts various events in the beautiful Suwanee Town Center, drawing large
audiences and the proceeds fund the student art scholarships and Suwanee Art Center initiatives. The Arts Center is proud to present annually the Rosemary Benavides Williams Student Art Scholarship to college-bound high school students planning to major in the field of visual arts. As shown by the city’s awardwinning arts initiatives, the arts are at the heart of the Suwanee community. The Arts Center helps to make Suwanee a more attractive place to live while contributing
to the ongoing knowledge within our community, bringing the area to life. The Suwanee Arts Center looks forward to hosting a variety of classes in 2021. Amazing volunteer opportunities are also available! The Suwanee Arts Center is located at 3930 Charleston Market St., N.W., Suite B6. For more information call 678-878-2818 or visit SuwaneeArtsCenter.org.
Chris Anderson, Photographer
ART IST SP O T LIGH T:
C HRIS AN D ER S ON PHOTOGRAPHER
Chris Anderson began his photography journey at a young age with a Kodak Instamatic and his dad’s Kodak 120 film camera, while also learning from his older sibling, who was an Emmy Award-winning professional photographer. At 14 years old, Chris purchased his own 35mm camera. He rolled, shot and developed the film himself, which he says deeply connected him to his work. Since that early introduction to photography, Anderson has gone on to become an award-winning photographer, including being recognized as one of the Top 101 Landscape Photographers of the Year in 2020. His work has been shown at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, Tula Arts Center and with Atlanta Celebrates Photography, among others.
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CLASSES AVAILABLE AT SUWANEE ARTS CENTER ❱ NATURE PRINTMAKING Saturday, January 9, 2021
Please choose between session A or B
A: 10:30 a.m.-noon / B: 2-3:30 p.m.
During this outdoor “Mom & Me” inspired workshop, children and their parents will learn about printmaking and go on a nature walk together. Ages 6-12 and parent/guardians.
❱ LANDSCAPE PAINTING Saturday, January 9, 2021 2-3:30 p.m.
In this intro to landscape painting workshop attendees will develop the skills needed to translate what they see onto a flat surface. Ages: 16+.
Aldeyjarfoss Falls by Chris Anderson
When asked about his love for photography, Chris says he enjoys “visualizing an image without my camera and then working hard to get the image, which may include cold all-nighters, miserable rainsoaked days, and seeing what others may not get to see, and sharing the images I create with others. It is all about the journey.” A 28-year resident of Suwanee, Chris currently teaches photography at the Suwanee Arts Center. He’s passionate about studying classical guitar in addition to continuing his work to capture fine art landscapes. “Through my start with film, I learned patience, as well as balance of the place between light and dark,” Chris says. “Traveling has opened
my eyes and my mind to different people, art, architecture, cities, mountains, and vast open spaces. I have traveled to over 20 countries, always ready for the next adventure. I believe in the importance of experiencing what is around me mindfully and intentionally.” Chris Anderson’s photographs are available for purchase online and at the Suwanee Arts Center as well as ChrisAndersonPhotography.com. Follow Chris on Instagram at @ChrisAndersonPhotography or Facebook at @ChrisAndersonPhotographyInc.
❱ ANDY GOLDSWORTHY NATURE SCULPTURE WORKSHOP Saturday, January 23, 2021
Please choose between session A or B
A: 10:30 a.m.-noon / B: 2-3:30 p.m.
Children and their parents will learn about the work of contemporary artist Andy Goldsworthy and go on a nature walk together. Using natural materials gathered on the walk, students will create earthwork sculptures and photograph their own work. Ages 6-12 and parent/guardians.
❱ DRAWING WORKSHOP Saturday, January 23, 2021
Please choose between session A or B
A: 10:30 a.m.-noon / B: 2-3:30 p.m.
During this basic to intermediate outdoor workshop, Lucy Brady will introduce contour drawing techniques as students explore the nature and architecture of Suwanee Town Center. Students are responsible for their own supplies. Ages: 16+.
❱ HANDBUILT MUG WORKSHOP Saturday, January 30, 2021 2-3:30 p.m.
Experience the therapeutic qualities of working in clay in this relaxed, socially distanced outdoor setting. 8+
❱ NOTE CARDS WORKSHOP Saturday, January 30, 2021 2-3:30 p.m.
Join Carol Knight in a workshop to create note cards from your own small works. Ages: 16+. For additional event details and to register, visit SuwaneeArtsCenter.org. Bristlecone Pine Tree by Chris Anderson
Moonlit Mount Shasta by Chris Anderson
Ms. A.J.
Hostess, Chick-fil-A, Moore Road, Suwanee
CREATING CLOSER community is a big part of what we do here at Suwanee Magazine. That’s why we’re proud to bring you The Faces of Suwanee. Suwanee is a great community with great people. We’ll be featuring
Ms. A.J. has been the hostess of Chick-fil-A at Moore Road in Suwanee for 14 years. Anyone who has dined there has surely come across the sweet and helpful lady whose mission is to brighten everyone’s day with good oldfashioned customer service with a smile, no matter the day. She is one of the people in our community who truly makes a difference to everyone she meets.
conversations we have with members of our community
TELL US WHERE YOU ARE FROM? I grew up in northern
as a way of telling the story of
Germany in a town called Luneburg, close to the northern seaboard. I married an American at 17 and we moved here to the U.S. to New Orleans after high school. I went to trade school so that I could support myself in case anything happened to my husband. He was in the Air Force and he promised my dad that I would get some kind of training to learn office skills. We had a baby boy. I kept the books for a grocery store and then worked for a bank, then for Georgia Pacific. We moved a lot because of my husband’s job managing sawmills. I also worked for a company who supplied coatings, like Teflon, which was a German company, so I was able to use my language skills in my job. After that, I went to work for another company in Johns Creek with similar products and I specialized in customer service.
Suwanee, one smiling face at a time. The Faces of Suwanee shines a light on the people who live and work here. You can read all of the interviews at TheFacesofSuwanee.com, and even nominate someone you think should be featured on the website. Be sure to follow Suwanee Magazine’s Facebook page where we’ll be sharing new Faces of Suwanee interviews weekly.
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WHAT INSPIRED YOU OR LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT CAREER? I was retired and attending a bible study at Shadowbrook Church in Suwanee and a gentleman came in, sat next to me, chatted and told me that he was opening a Chick-fil-A restaurant in Suwanee. He was looking for a hostess. I was serving and talking to some kids one day in Chick-fil-A and someone noticed my photograph in Suwanee Magazine. Now, almost everywhere I go, I run into kids I have known for 14 years whom I’ve watched grow up. I love what I do and the chance to see our community and kids grow.
PHOTO BY BETHANY COLLINS
INTERVIEW BY JULIE PERDUE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
<- Ms. A.J. grew up in Germany and speaks fluent German.
WHAT IS THE FIRST MOVIE YOU REMEMBER SEEING IN A THEATER? Hansel & Gretel. WHAT IS SOMETHING ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? We are planning to go to Europe to visit friends and family, and also possibly an Alaskan cruise.
IF YOU COULD TAKE ANYONE TO LUNCH (DEAD OR ALIVE) WHO WOULD THAT BE AND WHERE WOULD YOU GO? My son and his wife and my daughter and her husband, and we would go to Luciano’s.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC? NAME THREE BANDS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE. ‘50s rock and classical music. I would love to see Andre Rieu and his orchestra.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN SUWANEE AND WHAT DO YOU LOVE THERE? A favorite of ours is Cracker Barrel. When we used to travel, we knew where Cracker Barrel restaurants were in the South and we loved the vegetables and biscuits.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED OR LIVED IN SUWANEE? Over 30 years. WHAT HAS KEPT YOU HERE? My daughter lives in my subdivision and my grandkids are all around me. This is home to me.
HOW BIG IS YOUR FAMILY? I have a son and daughter, six grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. We aren’t just a family anymore; we are a CLAN!
WHO IS THE MOST INTERESTING PERSON YOU’VE MET IN SUWANEE? That is impossible to say. I have met so many interesting people here; so many of them, I don’t even know their names!
IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Ireland and Scotland. I have some roots there and both countries have always intrigued me.
WHAT LOCAL BUSINESS MAKES YOU THE MOST NOSTALGIC ABOUT SUWANEE? Chick-fil-A!! WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE THING ABOUT SUWANEE? I love the people and community. It is a combination of a small town and cosmopolitan city and I have a sense of belonging.
WOULD YOU RATHER SPEAK TO A CROWD OF 500 OR SING TO A CROWD OF 50? Are you kidding? I would have stage fright doing either one! ■
For more of this interview and more The Faces of Suwanee interviews, go to
TheFacesOfSuwanee.com
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FAMILY MATTERS
HEALTH & WELLNESS
By Molly Halbrooks, LMFT, Grow Counseling
CAN YOU EAT YOUR WAY TO MENTAL HEALTH? s the old saying goes, an apple a day keeps the doctor away. According to recent research being done in Australia and the U.K., it may also keep the psychiatrist away! Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption can have positive effects on mental health, similar to the well-documented positive effects of increased physical exercise. Recent studies show that even when controlling for other factors like income, health, and consumption of other food, people who increased their consumption of fruits and vegetables by just one serving a day reported significantly higher life satisfaction and mental well-being. Some of this effect may be due to the improvement in gut health that comes with an increase in whole foods and fiber. The presence of certain neurotransmitters is necessary in your brain for you to feel happy and calm, and the building blocks your body needs to produce those neurotransmitters are made in your gut. When you increase fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, your gut microbiome flourishes and is able to produce the appropriate balance of those neurotransmitter building blocks.
There are a few easy ways to increase your fruit and vegetable consumption without even really noticing.
Focus on adding foods, not on denying yourself. Rather than
focusing on what you shouldn’t have or restricting “bad” foods, simply think about adding a fruit or vegetable to one of your existing meals or snacks. This way, you get the benefit and nutritional value without feeling deprived.
Start with things you already like, then branch out from there. If you prefer fruit, don’t try to jump straight into raw kale. Stick with what you already like to begin with, then slowly start to try new things once the habit is more established.
“Hide” your veggies. It’s really
easy to add an extra serving of vegetables into things like smoothies, pasta sauce, or soup. You can also consider doubling the vegetables a recipe calls for - you likely won’t notice that it contains more vegetables than usual, and you’ll be reaping the benefits without having to try! There isn’t enough evidence to establish that eating fruits and vegetables can prevent mental illness, and a change in diet should never replace necessary treatment. At the end of the day, if adding one serving of a food group could have such a positive impact, why not give it a shot? ■
MOLLY HALBROOKS, LMFT Molly Halbrooks is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who works in the Suwanee area at Grow Counseling. She received her Masters of Family Therapy from Mercer University School of Medicine. She works with individuals and families dealing with a variety of concerns. She specializes in working with anxiety, life transitions like divorce or job change, grief and loss, trauma, and ADHD.
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CHOOSING THE BEST CHIROPRACTIC TECHNIQUE There are many misconceptions and assumptions about chiropractic and the techniques chiropractors use. Many patients believe that chiropractors work on the entire back, using brute force, twisting and popping to deliver spinal adjustments and alleviate pain. Nothing could be further from the truth. BY DR. LAUREN MILLMAN
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A MISCONCEPTION in chiropractic is that all chiropractors or chiropractic techniques are the same, and that if you haven’t responded effectively to one technique, you won’t respond effectively to another. Many are surprised to learn that there are hundreds of different types of chiropractic techniques and areas of special focus. Some chiropractors work strictly with athletes to enhance performance or to help heal from sports injuries, while a pediatric certified chiropractor may focus solely on the unique care for children. There are even chiropractors who only adjust animals. While some chiropractors use a variety of different techniques, others may specialize in one specific technique. Some chiropractors focus on relief, or short-term care, while others aim to correct the spine for long-term benefits and improved overall health. A chiropractor’s core curriculum includes several of the most common chiropractic techniques. It’s becoming more common these days for chiropractors to continue their training to other techniques and methods, beyond what’s required of the core curriculum. I had a saying many years ago that the technique chose the chiropractor rather than the chiropractor chose the technique. As for me and many of my colleagues, we all have our unique story as to how we decided to practice the technique that we do. Many of us were drawn to one method or another like a magnet. A chiropractor’s technique is their tool in their toolbox, it’s their unique craft, and one that many of us spent years perfecting.
UPPER CERVICAL CHIROPRACTIC
As for me, I chose to practice a unique technique known as upper cervical chiropractic. Upper cervical means “upper neck” of the spine, which is the location that is focused on for the adjustment. This style of chiropractic aims for a long-term approach to spinal correction, not just a temporary quick fix. While I only contact the upper most part of the spine, it is done so with the intention to impact and correct the whole spine. Patients who present with lower spine challenges or pain often receive significant and sustaining longterm relief even though those areas are rarely contacted in the adjustment. This particular technique is gentle, perhaps one of the gentlest techniques in chiropractic, and does not require any twisting, cracking, or jerking motions of the neck. This unique approach addresses components of the spinal misalignment that traditional chiropractic does not take
HEALTH & WELLNESS
CHOOSING A CHIROPRACTOR
The biggest challenge patients face when choosing a chiropractor is quite often, patients aren’t sure what type of chiropractor they are seeing, or how to choose the right chiropractor for their needs. My first recommendation when choosing a chiropractor would be to ask questions. With this new understanding that most chiropractors are very unique, I would encourage an individual to inquire about the techniques used, why they chose to practice that method, as well as what their goals for care include. Asking these questions in the beginning prevents any unexpected confusion or challenges, and sets the stage for the best possible outcome.
into account. This approach brings more specificity, resulting in faster results, lesser adjustments long term, and the ability for patients to maintain spinal alignment for longer periods. This gentle approach works great for those having had previous spinal surgery or who have other complicated conditions, which sometimes can be contraindicated for more invasive or forceful techniques.
Chiropractic is incredibly effective and consistent in helping people achieve better health and a better quality of life. Chiropractic has helped a tremendous amount of people achieve levels of health and healing that were otherwise not believed posssible. Instead of ruling out chiropractic altogether, and having the opinion, “chiropractic didn’t work for me,” I would make a more accurate claim to say, “that particular approach didn’t work for me, perhaps there’s another one that will.”. ■
BENEFIT OF DIFFERENT TECHNIQUES
What’s the benefit to having so many different techniques? As mentioned before, many people are of the opinion that if they didn’t respond effectively to one chiropractic technique, they won’t respond favorably to another. This very idea has prevented many individuals from seeking another chiropractic method simply because one method didn’t work out well. This has kept many from experiencing an effective, natural approach to healing, one that doesn’t involve pain medication or injections.
Dr. Millman is the founder and upper cervical chiropractor of Suwanee Spine and Healing Center, author of The Ultimate Healing Handbook, and recently voted Best of Gwinnett 2019. For more information, visit DrLaurenMillman.com.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
What is IV Therapy?
IV therapy is the use of intravenous vitamins, minerals and amino acids to boost one’s wellness. BY DARIANE NEWBY / PHOTO COURTESY REVIVE IV LOUNGE
IV THERAPY has quickly gained popularity around the world and has been more commonly referred to as IV Bars. This is because the IV bags are essentially a “cocktail” or mixture of nutrients created for each client and his or her specific needs. This can include a mixture of extra fluids, electrolytes and nutrients for hydration, increased energy, aiding in weight loss, boosting and protecting the immune system, migraine relief, hangover relief, skin brightening, antiaging and so on. When customers visit Buford’s Revive IV Lounge they can choose from a menu with a variety of premade IV drips. Customers can select something right off the menu or customize Revive’s drips by adding or taking out nutrients. For those who are still unsure, Revive’s highly trained nursing staff can help determine what’s best based on a customer’s
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specific concerns or needs. Then, nutrients get mixed into an IV bag and an IV is inserted into the vein. This is all done while relaxing in one of Revive’s many comfy and private lounges. Most IV therapies take about an hour. So clients are encouraged to bring their computers, plan to watch TV, or even bring their kids! Revive wants each client to feel like they're at home and can relax, get work done, take a nap, or catch up on their favorite television series. They also offer warm blankets during the services because sometimes as the cold fluids infuse it can cause the body’s temperature to slightly drop. Many people wonder why one would choose this method over taking daily vitamins orally. The answer is easy! When taking oral supplements, much of the supplement is wasted and not absorbed as they travel down the GI tract. Infusing nutrients, however, bypasses the digestive system and
instead the nutrients flow directly into the bloodstream making them 100% absorbable by the body and highly effective. Therefore one can begin feeling the benefits immediately. Many of Revive IV Lounge’s clients choose to come in once a month to maintain their wellness. However, you can also infuse nutrients weekly for more specific needs. To maintain wellness Revive offers membership packages to help keep clients on track. Included in these packages is a variety of add-ons and discounts, including nutrient injections and their extremely popular oxygen bar. Revive IV Lounge is located at 2725 Mall of Georgia Blvd., second floor, in Buford. For more information, visit ReviveIVLoungeBuford.com or call 470-589-1237. Walk-ins are always welcome.
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local food, craft beer & wine trends
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BARE BONES STEAKHOUSE A NEW CHAPTER FOR BUFORD FAVORITE
ï&#x20AC;¸ WHAT'S BREWING: STILLFIRE BREWING WINS BIG AT U.S. OPEN BEER CHAMPIONSHIP page 54
BELOVED FOOD TRUCK SETS UP SHOP IN SUWANEE AND BRINGS ITS FAMILY RECIPES WITH IT. By ALICIA CARTER / Photos By KARL LAMB
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The story of Suwanee’s newest restaurant, Nana G’s Chicken and Waffles, begins with the original Nana G. ANA G is my grandmother,” says Guy Hollcroft, owner of Nana G’s. “She passed away three years ago at the age of 104 years old. She left us with a lot of cool things that we’ve grown up with.” One of those cool things is their popular chicken and waffles recipe, a recipe that has long been noted on many best-of lists around metro Atlanta from Nana G’s time as an in-demand food truck. The recipe has certainly evolved over time, but it all began with a clever idea Nana G had one morning during breakfast. “It was flapjack, and then it turned into a little bit more like a pancake,” Guy says. “Then it turned into a waffle — it was just one of those things. The most creative idea that we had was the bacon-infused waffle. That happened many moons ago Guy Hollcroft and his when my mother mom, Paula. was just a little girl. One morning, my grandmother decided to cut up all the meat and put it in the flapjacks so nobody saw who had more. That kind of stuck with the family and as time went on, we kept putting the bacon and sausage in the flapjacks and the waffles, and now it’s evolved into a bacon-infused waffle.” The recipe certainly lives up to the hype. In their signature Papa G’s, the bacon-infused waffle is topped with powdered sugar, maple syrup and two pieces of fried chicken. The warm and fluffy waffle soaks up all the yummy syrup creating a sweet little nest for the fried chicken, whose touch of spice adds a nice balance to all the sweetness. It’s a really dreamy bite of sweet and spice, perfect for an early brunch, lunch or dinner — any time, really.
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If you’re feeling adventurous, try one of their chicken and waffle variations, including the Auntie P’s, which features sliced banana as an added topping. The Cousin G’s (named after Guy) takes it up a notch with sliced banana, Nutella and peanut butter. In addition to chicken and waffles, Nana G’s also offers a number of tasty home-cooked meals, including sandwiches, tacos, salads, fresh-cut fries and their award-winning wings. “These are things we’ve grown up with,” Guy says. “They’re the originals. They are staples of our country. They are home-cooked, simple items — they’re just good.”
FINDING A HOME IN SUWANEE
The original Nana G’s food truck started in 2011 and recently celebrated its ninth anniversary. Suwanee locals will remember it from Town Center’s Food Truck Fridays, which they were a part of for three years. After almost a decade of the food truck biz, however, Guy says it was time to settle down into a physical location. “I’m 51 now. I didn’t want to spend all of my time getting off and on that truck,” he says. “People wanted to be able to find us and catch us all the time, not just on an 11-2 basis. We took the chance on a small place in Atlanta. We were able to do a little business and learn more about how a brick-and-mortar business operates. It was a stepping stone. God knew what was going on — he prepared us for this thing here [in Suwanee]. We have beer and wine now. We never had that down there.” The original location was located on Moreland Avenue in Atlanta. It lasted three years before COVID hit and the neighborhood went through
In addition to its signature chicken and waffles, Nana G’s menu also features a number of tried-and-true favorites like burgers, tacos and salads.
FOOD & DRINK
changes that led Guy to shut it down and set up shop in Suwanee. “All the stars aligned for this place,” he says. Guy credits the opening of the new location and the success he’s seen so far on the support of the City of Suwanee. “Suwanee really wants businesses to succeed,” he says. “We love it out here. The community here is unreal. I recommend Suwanee to everyone. The people here are amazing.”
A DREAM COME TRUE
“He was made to do this,” says Paula Hollcroft, Guy's mother. “He’s got the personality. He remembers people’s names and faces. I’m not as good at recognizing people, but Guy always remembers.”
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FOOD & DRINK
Nana G’s was named after the owner's grandmother, who lived to be 104 years old.
And she’s right. Guy certainly has a presence in the dining room, taking orders, chatting up customers and making sure everyone who visits Nana G’s leaves happy. When you walk into the restaurant, the first thing to greet you isn’t necessarily the aroma of chicken, waffles and wings — but we won’t lie, it’s not a bad combination. The first thing to greet you is Guy’s excitement.
It’s not forced or fake; Guy truly loves what he does. He loves running a family business and incorporating his family into all aspects of Nana G’s — after all, all of the menu items are named after family members. “I’ve waited for this. I’ve worked hard,” he says. “I’ve always said I wanted to own a restaurant.” Guy and Nana G’s bring something different to our community. Sure, you can visit and have a great meal with a
beer at the bar or share bites of your waffle with the family in the dining room, but you also get a frontrow seat to the evolution of a family business that started long ago in Nana G’s kitchen. So pull up a chair and order a Papa G’s. You won’t be disappointed. ■
Nana G’s Chicken and Waffles is located at 991 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. in Suwanee. For more information, call 404-917-4065 or visit NanaGChik-nWaffles.com.
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FOOD & DRINK
A NEW CHAPTER FOR BARE BONES STEAKHOUSE
BUFORD’S FAVORITE STEAKHOUSE REOPENS IN A BRAND-NEW LOCATION COMPLETE WITH A PRIVATE VAULT, TWO-STORY ELEVATOR AND PATIO DINING. BY LIZZY JAMES / Photos By Gary Dowd
ALTHOUGH Bare Bones Steakhouse was designed as what owners Buddy and Gaye Maughon call a “common man steakhouse,” their new location in historic downtown Buford is anything but ordinary. The original location was a 40-year dream of Buddy’s, and with the support of his wife, Gigi (Gaye), his dream came to fruition when they opened Bare Bones in December of 2015. As the restaurant began to grow, additional space was needed, and the couple decided to purchase a new location just a few storefronts down in February of 2020. Tapping into the building’s rich history, the new twostory restaurant was restored to its original 1901 appearance and showcases artifacts, photos and pieces from the Shadburn Bank that used to call the building home. From private vault dining to a twostory elevator, we had a chance to catch up with the Maughons and learn more about the incredible dining experience they are once again bringing to downtown Buford. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO OPEN BARE BONES STEAKHOUSE? Buddy has been in the meat business for 62 years. It had been a dream of his for 40 years to own a casual steakhouse that the whole family can enjoy. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN LOCATED IN BUFORD? We opened the first Bare Bones location in downtown Buford in 2015. Our family, however, has been living in Buford since 1987.
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Bare Bones' second story features the old basketball goal used back in the early 1900s. If you look closely on the brick walls you can see the chalk where teams kept score.
Bare Bones is also home to a full bar featuring delicious seasonal cocktails, bourbon, and a variety of wines.
WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO OPEN A NEW LOCATION? We had been looking for a larger space, a space of our own, for a year or so and knew we didn't want to leave the historic part of Buford. When the Shadburn Banking building became available, we went to take a look at it and fell in love! Our goal all along was to bring the building's exterior back to its original look. We are excited to have an outdoor patio for dining. And as an added bonus, the new City of Buford parking deck is just across the street.
Tapping into the building’s rich history, the new restaurant was restored to its original 1901 appearance and showcases artifacts, photos and pieces from the Shadburn Bank that used to call the building home.
CAN YOU TELL US THE HISTORY OF THE NEW LOCATION? WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO RESTORE IT TO ITS ORIGINAL APPEARANCE? The building was built in 1901 by Burel and Kate Allen Shadburn — Bona Allen’s only daughter — and the building has had an intriguing and ever-
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changing past. Although the building began as a bank, it has also been the home to the first indoor basketball court in Gwinnett County, a piano repair shop, an appliance store, the local post office, city court and a ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; boutique. We did our best to preserve anything original to the building during the renovation. The buildout was made so easy for us because we had the best contractors, Greg Thigpen and Ricky Waycaster, handling the job. All of the people who worked on the project helped to bring Bare Bones to her current splendor and uniqueness. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF THE NEW LOCATION? For Buddy, it's the vault. For Gigi, it's the tin ceiling and all things old. When the original floors downstairs were in too bad of shape to leave, some of that wood was used to trim out the windows and doors. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO STAY IN BUFORD? We love Buford! It's a wonderful place to live and work. This community has been so supportive and kind to us. Many of our customers have become good friends and we truly value them. The City of Buford officials have always been very supportive of Bare Bones as well, and we are grateful for that.
WHAT CAN PEOPLE EXPECT TO EXPERIENCE WHEN DINING AT THE NEW RESTAURANT? We think we have the best staff in the world! From the front of house to the kitchen, we have the hardest working, most dedicated people you could ever hope for. They are professional and skilled and you experience that when you are a guest in our house. Our steaks are USDA Prime and The vault Choice aged Midwestern beef. Buddy and his son Rhett hand-cut all of our steaks every day. We make all of our desserts, our bread, sauces and dressings in-house using the freshest ingredients. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MOST POPULAR MENU ITEMS? Our onion rings continue to be one of the most popular items on our menu. Most of our recipes were created by our son, Capers. The steaks, from the Filet Mignon and the Chateaubriand to the bone-in ribeyes and the 48 ounce Tomahawk, are superb. Folks also enjoy our fish, lamb, King crab legs and lobster tails. And the Bananas Foster is a must try! CAN YOU RECOMMEND SOMETHING ON THE MENU THAT PEOPLE MAY NOT HAVE TRIED BEFORE? Our chocolate ganache cake with homemade strawberry ice cream is really good. Also our pimento cheese with house crackers is delicious. For Gigi, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Alice's fried okra!
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FOOD & DRINK
DO YOU HAVE ANY PRIVATE EVENT SPACE THAT IS AVAILABLE TO BE RENTED OUT? We have three rooms that can be reserved for private events. There are two rooms upstairs — one can accommodate parties up to 40 and the other up to 80 people.The Bank Vault can be reserved for parties up to 12. IF YOU COULD DESCRIBE BARE BONES IN ONE SENTENCE WHAT WOULD IT BE? Bare Bones is a place to go for great food and drinks, to gather with family and friends for celebrations, and a place to feel comfortable — to just kick back and relax. We want you to feel like you've come to our home for dinner. ■
Bare Bones Steakhouse is Bare Bones' owners Gaye and Buddy Maughon (center) pictured with managers Lee, Barbie and Andy
located at 115 E. Main St., Buford. Call 470-266-1890 for reservations. BareBonesSteakhouse.com.
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W H A T
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12% Days of Christmas Belgian Quad
B R E W I N G
STILLFIRE BREWING WINS BIG AT NATIONAL COMPETITION SUWANEE BREWERY BRINGS HOME TWO BRONZE MEDALS AT THE 2020 U.S. OPEN BEER CHAMPIONSHIP
Brewing has been racking up the awards in its first year of being open. From bringing home three medals in the 2019 Can Can Awards and placing second at the 2020 Atlanta Cask Ale tasting to winning a bronze medal for its Orange Diva at the Great American Beer Festival, the brewery has really been making a splash in the craft beer industry. Now, the team can add “U.S. Open Bronze Medal Winner” to its resume. StillFire was one of 13 Georgia-based breweries to win medals in this year’s U.S. Open Beer Championship. The brewery first received a bronze medal in the British Imperial Stout category for its Black Mask. Clocking in a 10.9% ABV, this beer’s high gravity is masked by delicious hints of chocolate and vanilla. But the excitement didn’t stop there, the team also took home a second bronze medal in the Belgian Quadrupel category for its 12% Days of Christmas. At 12% ABV, this beer features an incredibly
PHOTO BY GARY DOWD
SUWANEE’S Stillfire
complex aroma of sweet alcohol, light pepper and clove with rich dark fruits of plum, raisin and black currant. Breweries from Luxembourg to Louisiana sent in more than 6,000 beers representing over 140 different styles for the 2020 U.S. Open Beer Championship. This competition is the only one to include beers from professional breweries and beers from gold medal winners from the National AHA Homebrew Competition. To see the full list of medalists, visit USOpenBeer.com. ■
A Father-Son Joint 11455 LAKEFIELD DR. SUITE 300 JOHNS CREEK, GA 30097
SIXBRIDGESBREWING.COM
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AWARD-WINNING BEERS BREWED RIGHT HERE IN SUWANEE
2020 GREAT AMERICAN BEER FESTIVAL
BRONZE ORANGE DIVA
Belgian-Style Specialty Ale
2019 CAN CAN AWARDS
GOLD
THOROUGHLY GOOD SCOTCH ALE Bourbon Barrel Aged Scotch Ale
2019 CAN CAN AWARDS
SILVER
EXTRA SUWANEE BITTER Extra Special Bitter
2020 ATLANTA CASK ALE TASTING
2ND PLACE CLASSIC STYLE BEER OLDE CHIEF INSPECTOR Barleywine
2019 CAN CAN AWARDS
BRONZE
OLDE CHIEF INSPECTOR Barleywine
2020 U.S. OPEN BEER CHAMPIONSHIP
BRONZE BLACK MASK
British Imperial Stout
In just over one year StillFire Brewing has earned 7 National and Regional awards including a Bronze Medal in the most prestigious beer competition in the world, The Great American Beer Festival. Visit our taproom in Suwanee to try the beer that the beer community is celebrating.
2020 U.S. OPEN BEER CHAMPIONSHIP
BRONZE
12% DAYS OF CHRISTMAS Belgian Quadrupel
offer. CBD can help with pain relief, stress and anxiety, benefits the heart, alleviates cancerrelated symptoms and much more. Bottom line, CBD may provide a safe, powerful, natural treatment for many health issues. Relax + Releaf offers a variety of ways to benefit from CBD, such as tinctures, capsules, gummies, pre-rolls, lotions, pet treats, facial scrubs and more. CBD is non-psychoactive, leaving you with all the medicinal properties of cannabis and no buzz! All of their natural CBD products have been third-party tested to ensure they contain less than 0.3% THC (undetectable amounts). If you want reliable CBD products you
THE LATEST FROM IN AND AROUND SUWANEE
RELAX + RELEAF OPENS IN SUWANEE RELAX + RELEAF specializes in natural
organic hemp-derived products. Their mission is to encourage others to educate themselves on all the great benefits CBD has to
Greater Atlanta Christian School Bolsters Salvation Army's Annual Can-a-Thon Christian School is already a community leader in the Salvation Army’s annual Can-AThon, but this past December the school outdid themselves, rising to the challenge of providing nonperishable food items in a more significant way than ever before.
GREATER ATLANTA
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Throughout the end of 2020 the school collected a record 27,000 cans, surpassing the previous year’s record of 20,000 cans. Captain Paul Ryerson of the Gwinnett County Salvation Army came and spoke to GAC students and shared how the pandemic has
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can trust, Relax + Releaf is your preferred partner in healing. Relax + Releaf is located at 1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 140, in Suwanee and is open Tues.-Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sun., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. (Closed Monday.) For more info call 678-765-7020, visit Relax-Releaf.com, or follow them on Facebook at @Relax+Releaf and Instagram at @Relaxnreleaf.
created food insecurity for many families globally and locally. In response, the parents, students and faculty/staff rolled up their sleeves with determination to make their collections an even more meaningful impact during this difficult year. GAC President Dr. Scott Harsh was on hand to help students load the more than 1,200 large boxes into two box trucks, and he noted the significance of the day. “It’s incredible to see what our families have done and to see the leadership of our students. In a year when many are focused on what we can’t do, I love seeing our community focused on what we can do. Our students really latched on to the reasons why this help is needed. It’s been such great joy in coming together to give this donation.” GAC strives to instill a heart for serving in each of its students throughout the year. The annual Can-a-Thon food drive is unique since it includes the efforts of the school’s entire student body, from GAC’s very youngest to its oldest Spartans. The annual Can-A-Thon is sponsored in the Atlanta Area by Publix and 11Alive. To learn more about its impact on the community visit: SalvationArmyAtlanta.org.
REVIVE IV LOUNGE OPENS IN SUWANEE GIVE. SERVE. LOVE. RUN BY local CRNA Josh Newby and his wife, Dariane Newby, Revive IV Lounge specializes in IV therapies and wellness services to help individuals reach optimal health, function, and performance. Revive offers a relaxing and professional IV Therapy experience, all in the comfort of your own private lounge equipped with comfy seating, pillows, a blanket and a TV. Here you can relax in privacy, take advantage of free Wi-Fi and get some work done, or you can utilize their social lounge. IV Therapy is the use of intravenous vitamins and micronutrients to boost and protect your immune system, increase athletic performance, aid in athletic recovery, weight loss and much more. Infusing nutrients directly into the bloodstream makes them 100% absorbable by the body. Therefore, one can begin feeling the benefits immediately. Revive’s other wellness therapies include an oxygen bar, nutrient injections, massage therapies, targeted cryo treatment, Ketamine infusions and more! Revive IV Lounge is located at 2725 Mall of Georgia Blvd., second floor, in Buford. Call 470-589-1237 to book your appointment now!
Area Churches Celebrate Results of Annual Generosity Campaign — in Gwinnett and Across the Globe
SINCE 2007, North Point Ministries has encouraged the attendees of its eight Atlanta-area churches to give, serve, and love their community through the annual generosity campaign Be Rich. What started 14 years ago with three churches has grown into a global movement of generosity from 68 churches in 21 states and six countries. The name of the giving campaign, Be Rich, comes from scripture. In a letter to the apostle Timothy, the apostle Paul commands others to “be rich in good deed, and generous and willing to share” (1 Timothy 6:18). It is the desire of every church that participates in Be Rich that their attendees give generously, serve locally, and love those around them. Every dollar collected through Be Rich is given directly to local and global nonprofit partners. Since the beginning of the initiative, this network of churches has served more than 492,000 hours and given almost $58 million to more than 610 nonprofits and communities around the world. As a result, many lives have been directly impacted. Gwinnett Church is a consistent part of Be Rich and views the campaign as an opportunity to
showcase their desire to serve and support our community — and to be known for being FOR Gwinnett. Some of the projects Gwinnett Church has supported through Be Rich include donating pantry items for North Gwinnett Cooperative Ministries, funding a GED program, supporting a Microsoft Certification program, and providing technology support to women victimized by sexual exploitation being served at Wellspring Living. In addition, donations were made to install telemedicine services at Good Samaritan Health Clinic of Gwinnett and to provide family care model support to children living in a crisis situation at Eagle Ranch. Be Rich also supports the efforts of several international organizations, including funding three international border stations to rescue women from trafficking, supporting shipments of personal protective equipment to underserved communities, and funding counseling and therapy for underserved children and adults.
What started 14 years ago with three churches has grown into a global movement of generosity from 68 churches in 21 states and six countries.
Gwinnett Church’s goal through Be Rich is to give, serve, and love its community. To learn more about Gwinnett Church or Be Rich, visit GwinnettChurch.org.
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technology, guests are guaranteed to YEARS IN THE making, Georgia have an unforgettable experience with Aquarium’s long-awaited and newest one of nature’s most formidable apex gallery, SHARKS! Predators of the predators. Sharks are featured in the Deep, opened to the public on 20-foot-deep, 185-foot-long exhibit October 23, 2020. The new exhibit and can be spotted in the floor-togives guests the opportunity to see ceiling acrylic windows. Thousands of one of the largest shark exhibits pilchard fish also shimmer and school anywhere in the world. throughout the 1.2 million gallons “On behalf of the dedicated staff of saltwater among at Georgia the sharks. An entirely Aquarium, we new main entrance are excited to to the Aquarium also announce the accompanies the exhibit. opening of our new “As guests explore gallery, SHARKS! our new gallery, they will Predators of the find themselves standing Deep. A lot of work inches away from some went into creating of the most feared and a spectacular mysterious animals on the guest experience, planet,” said Dr. Davis. including new “We hope to turn that features and fear into fascination and interactive ultimately an appreciation elements that for sharks. Our goal is to were designed for have guests leave with a guests of all ages deeper understanding of and abilities,” said all shark species and a Dr. Brian Davis, respect to protect them. president and Two brand-new CEO of Georgia immersive and interactive Aquarium. experiences will be Featuring many available for guests to get unique elements - Dr. Brian Davis, president/ even closer to sharks and and state-of-the-art CEO of Georgia Aquarium
As guests explore our new gallery, they will find themselves standing inches away from some of the most feared and mysterious animals on the planet.”
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rays. In a one-of-a-kind immersive experience guests will go behind-thescenes and wade into an immersion pool attached to the main shark habitat. Accompanied by Georgia Aquarium staff, guests will learn about zebra sharks and stingrays while simultaneously being in the water with these animals. This immersion experience is now available and reservations can be made online. In addition to zebra sharks and stingrays, guests can be submerged into the waters of the main habitat and get daringly close to the sharks – from the safety of a dive cage that moves underwater. No dive certification is necessary as participants are guided by Georgia Aquarium Dive staff. The dive cage experience is available beginning in 2021!
SHARKS! Predators of the Deep is included with General Admission and ticket reservations are available at GeorgiaAquarium.org.
PHOTO COURTESY GEORGIA AQUARIUM
‘SHARKS!’ HAS SURFACED AT GEORGIA AQUARIUM
THE BUZZ
Elevate Functional Medicine is Now Open in Suwanee ARE YOU SICK and tired of feeling sick and
tired? Experience the difference personalized medicine can make. Elevate Functional Medicine delivers wellness-centered healthcare, focusing on finding the root cause of your unwanted symptoms. Working together, in partnership, Elevate Functional Medicine will help you achieve and maintain your best health. During your visit you can expect to spend up to two hours with a medical provider who will review your complete medical history, perform a thorough physical exam and design an integrative treatment plan created just for you. Your plan may include nutrition and exercise guidelines, support for sleep and stress, as well recommendations for supplements and other integrative therapy modalities. Elevate Functional Medicine specializes in male and female hormone balance (bioidentical hormones); women’s health conditions; hypothyroidism; Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis; adrenal fatigue; digestive dysfunction; food allergies and sensitivities; autoimmune conditions; depression, anxiety and stress; chronic fatigue; diabetes; memory loss; detoxification; and anti-aging skin care.
Elevate Functional Medicine is located at 4485 Tench Road, Suite 740, in Suwanee. For more information call 470-266-1380 or visit ElevateFunctionalMedicine.com.
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Summer KEEPING FIT in IN THE the Sweet SWEET CITY City
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INDULGING in days holiday ummer isAFTER nearly here. The aretreats, longer, it’s time to ring in the new with school is out, the sun is shining, andyear the warm to get health at Sugar weather a iscommitment inviting you to outside and Hill’s E Center gym! over 11,700 Sugar Hill make the most outJoin of your summer months in residents and neighbors who have registered the sweet city! Sugar Hill may be a growing for membership since the gym opened in city, but we know that places to play are just January 2019. Current members love that the E as important as places to live and work. Center’s facility has something for everyone. The recreation area and gym include: courts striped GARYforPIRKLE PARK basketball, volleyball, and pickleball; group Gary Pirkle Park, located just offyoga, Suwanee Dam Road, fitness classes including dance, and karate; offers plenty of space for play andand programming. Pirkle an indoor walking track, fitness equipment Park is home to thealargest synthetic turfmachine, fields in the area with strength-training Southeast as well as a shaded playground, ellipticals, and treadmills. The citytwo alsomiles offers of paved andgym lighted walking trails, and the Sugar Hill open hours for basketball, volleyball and Community Garden. pickleball for a small fee per player. The impressive E Center THE SUGAR HILL GOLF CLUB facility Just down the street, The Sugar Hill Golffeatures Club hasa community earned an established reputation as one of thespace most for rent for events beautiful, and challenging, public courses in the North workshops. The Georgia foothills. With some of the or most spectacular Waterfall Room can golfing vistas, the unique course offers plenty of daily accommodate up tee times as well as regular tournaments and a club to 150 persons and house available for special events. is equipped with The E Center gym opened in full audio/visual January 2019. capabilities and classrooms at the E Center can be subdivided and accommodate 80-100 people. Residents of Sugar Hill and Sugar Hill Natural Gas customers have free access to the gym facilities. Community members enjoy amenities for a small annual fee. To register for access to the gym, join a fitness class or league, or rent space in the facility, create an account online at CityofSugarHill.com/ recreation and edit your profile information by completing and signing a waiver. You may also visit the recreation desk in the E Center (5009 W. Broad Street) in person to make an account. All new members will need to bring proof of residency (such as a bill for gas service with the City of Sugar Hill) to have an access card created. Non-residents can process payment with cash, check, or credit card. For more information about programming, sports leagues, or activities please call 770-945-6716 or go to CityofSugarHill.com/ parks-and-recreation. ■
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SUGAR HILL SPLASH PARK
Kids can cool off and splash around at the Sugar Hill Splash Park in the heart of Sugar Hill. The exciting water feature offers free fun for all ages and is open seasonally from late spring to early fall. Located directly behind City Hall, the Splash Park offers familyfriendly fun with dancing water fountains and lights as well as plenty of local restaurants within a five-minute walk. Grab something to go or enjoy your own treats at Stop picnic by the E Center gymor for soak a shaded tables up the sun on the plaza number of fitness opportunities, surrounding the fountain. including group workout classes and a gym striped for basketball, volleyball and pickle ball.
/CityofSugarHill
Sugar Hill’s E Center gym features fitness equipment such as strength-training machines, ellipticals and treadmills.
Get your steps in at the gym’s indoor walking track.
@CityofSugarHill
@CityofSugarHill_
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Suwanee Mag
Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands
Enjoy a fun-filled day with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the all-new Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for day of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family - snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and play in the snow.
Lakeside Lighrt!s Spectacula
For more info visit MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com
ON THE SCENE
Happy Feat's Run Run Rudolph 5K Saturday, Dec. 5th TOWN CENTER PARK
PHOTOS BY TIM NETTLETON FROM TRUE SPEEDPHOTO.COM
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I N - P E R S O N T E A C H I N G â&#x20AC;˘ P R E - S C H O O L T H R O U G H 12 T H G R A D E
TOP-RATED EDUCATION
in a Safe, Christian Environment Sugar Hill Christian Academy features the highest quality of education in a safe, Christian environment. Our faculty, staff, and administration are dedicated to providing your student with a learning environment that is ranked in the top percentages nationally ensuring your child is set up for success in and out of the classroom.
SHCA is a great school! Academics are amazing and teachers work very hard to ensure each student achieves their full potential and then some. It provides a safe, friendly Christian environment where all students are accepted. - SHCA Middle School Student
Now Enrolling for Fall 2021 CALL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR
678.745.4121 SugarHillChristian.org 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd. Sugar Hill, GA 30518
JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2021 J A N U A R Y
1
LICENSE TO CHILL SNOW thru ISLAND AND Feb 21 LAKESIDE LIGHTS SPECTACULAR Margaritaville at Lanier Islands
Tickets: margaritaville atlanierislands.com
1
SUGAR HILL ICE RINK
of Sugar Hill thru City For more info:
Feb 28
6 9
haidrink.com.
9 & 23
SUWANEE WINTER FARMER’S MARKET 9-11am
Town Center Park
GWINNETT COUNTY SCHOOLS BACK IN SESSION BRING ONE FOR THE CHIPPER CHRISTMAS TREECYCLING 9am-4pm
Sims Lake Park
For more info: suwanee.com
9 & 10
REPTICON ATLANTA 9-11am
Gwinnett County Fairgrounds For more info: repticon.com
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MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY
Gwinnett County Schools Holiday
F E B R U A R Y
13
SUWANEE SWEETHEART SPRINT 9:30am
Town Center Park For more info: suwaneesweet heartsprint.com
14
VALENTINE’S DAY
15
PRESIDENTS DAY
21
SUWANEE HALF MARATHON/OLD TOWN 5K
Gwinnett County Schools Holiday
7:30am-11am
Town Center Park For more info: suwanee.com
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H APP Y HOUR
I N T H E LOU NGE T U E SDAY– F R I DAY 5 –7 PM JOI N US FOR ROTAT I NG W I N E S BY T H E GL A SS A N D SPECI A LT Y CR A F T COCKTA I L S!
T U E SDAY
CH E F ’S CHOICE I TA L I A N A PPE T I ZE R
W E DN E SDAY
L A DI E S’ N IGH T $6 M A RT I N I A N D COSMOS $6 B& B CR A B C A K E S
T H U R SDAY
“F L IGH T N IGH T ” ROTAT I NG W I N E A N D BOU R BON F L IGH TS
F R I DAY
OYST E R HOU R $1.50 A SH UCK
DINNER T U E SDAY
CH E F ’S CHOICE I TA L I A N SPECI A LT I E S
T H U R SDAY
$48 ST E A K & LOBST E R
SU N DAY
A L L DAY H E R B ROA ST E D PR I M E R I B
LUNCH SAT U R DAY LU NCH 11A M –3PM
SU N DAY BRU NCH 11A M –3PM
LIVE ENTERTA INMENT T H E ST E PH E N L E E BA N D F R I DAY N IGH T 7–11PM
ST E PH E N L E E - SOLO
W E DN E SDAY & T H U R SDAY 6 –9PM SAT U R DAY 7–10:30PM
STEPHEN LEE 4 0 0 B U F O R D H W Y, S U I T E 1 1 0 4 , S U WA N E E , G A 3 0 0 2 4 67 8-80 4 -9 4 47 • B O T T L E S A N D B O N E S G A . C O M
C O M M U N I T Y F E AT U R E S • 24-hour access to the on-site multipurpose
fitness center • Cardio studio, strength center, yoga/spin room • High intensity training room • Rooftop terrace & clubhouse featuring
Siena Suwanee Town Center
catering kitchen
4 0 0 B uford H i ghway N W
• Electric car charging stations
Suwanee, GA 30024
• Cyber Café with gourmet coffee bar
678-821 -9797
• Salt-water resort-style pool with cabanas
s ie n a s u wanee@ram-mgt .com
& hammock garden
N OW L E A S I N G S T U D I O , O N E , T WO & T H R E E B E D R O O M A PA R T M E N T H O M E S
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Run more than just your mouth.
6TH ANNUAL SUNDAY SUWANEE HALF FEB. 21, MARATHON & OLD TOWN 5K 2021
Register at
SuwaneeHalf.com