Suwanee Magazine November - December 2018

6 Healthy Ways to Sleigh Holiday Stress

NOV / DEC 18

THE

Traditions & Recipes Holiday Wines ✦ Etiquette Tips Letters to Santa

WREATH MAKING TIPS PG. 23

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT:

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CRAIG OBRIST PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTO BY KARL LAMB

Holiday Traditions and Recipes

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Connections Homes

Connections Homes continues the legacy of a beloved member of our community by providing hope, mentorship and family to teens and young adults aging out of foster care.

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We asked members of our community to share their families’ traditions in hopes that they may inspire you to gather together and create some new ones of your own.

PHOTO COURTESY SIP HAPPENS

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Holiday Gift Guide Cross out your holiday shopping list with a selection of goodies that can be found right here in the community.

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Heartis Suwanee Heartis Suwanee’s vision of retirement is one that is inclusive to the needs of a diverse group of people, and is the ideal choice for those looking to lead a full, active and enjoyable life well into their golden years.

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35 Family Matters

Even though it can seem like a difficult task to make the holidays go smoothly after divorce, it’s possible to have a great holiday season with the right communication and planning. By licensed Family Therapist, Laura Lebovitz.

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The Get Fit Challenge Where are they Now? During the 2018 Get Fit Challenge, the contestants lost a combined total of 117 pounds and 17 inches. As we approach the end of the year, we reached out to the contestants to find out if they stuck with their new healthy routines and what they’ve been up to in the months following the challenge.

PHOTO BY JULIE PERDUE

50 Letters to Santa

From makeup sets and baby sisters to puppies, it seems Santa has his hands full this year!

59 Left Nut Brewing

Gainesville’s communityfocused brewery serves up beer with a little quirk.

62 Holiday Wines

Sip Happens can help take the mystery out of which wines work best with your dinner.

in every issue: 8 Editor’s Letter 64 The Buzz 70 People & Places 78 Event Calendar

14 Gwinnett's 200th Birthday Bash

More than 200 events and community celebrations have led up to a Birthday Bash and Celebration Gala taking place this December.

15 Investment Strategies Aileron Investment Advisors discuss new tools for investing in the stock market.

31 6 Ways to Sleigh Holiday Stress

Hira Kohli, MD, a primary care provider at the GMC Primary Care & Specialty Center-Suwanee, shares six easy things you can do to stay feeling holiday obsessed instead of seasonally stressed.

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Aqua Terra Bistro

While many restaurants come and go, Aqua Terra Bistro has remained a pillar in the Buford community for more than 20 years. We had the chance to sit down with owner, Laurie Attaway, and hear the secrets behind the fine-dining establishment.

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letter

a note from our managing editor

Celebrate Togetherness This Holiday Season

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2018 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • HOLIDAY TRADITIONS & RECIPES • RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: AQUA TERRA BISTRO

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- Alicia

S U W A N E E M AG A Z I N E

always thought Alicia Carter it was Managing Editor Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com impossible to love the holidays more than when I was a kid ... but then I had children. The magic of the season is reignited because I’m seeing my favorite holiday traditions through their eyes. And I’m grateful for this gift — perhaps the best gift of all: family. As I step into my new role as Managing Editor here at Suwanee Magazine, I feel as though I’ve been welcomed into a new family, and I am blessed to be surrounded by such smart and caring people. And that’s what this issue intends to celebrate. After all, the holidays are about uplifting loved ones, celebrating community, and bringing people together to take part in the traditions we hold close to our hearts. In this spirit, we asked notable Suwanee residents to share their families’ favorite holiday traditions in hopes they’ll inspire you to create a few new ones of your own. Check them out on p. 17.

Throughout this issue we’ve also highlighted local events that signal the beginning of the season, such as Suwanee Academy of the Arts’ Gingerbread Festival. This year, I’m excited to take my daughter to their Nutcracker Tea (p. 22),

which I hope becomes a yearly number of goodies that can be tradition for us. Jingle in the found at businesses right here Park (p. 26) will fill Suwanee in our community.

Town Center with holiday The spirit of giving can shopping and family-fun also take on a much deeper activities this December, while meaning, reminding us to go License to Chill Snow Island into the season with charitable makes its debut alongside hearts. This year, we’re excited Lanier Islands’ beloved to tell the story of an amazing Magical Nights of Lights (p. 24). local organization, Connections We hear they have the fastest Homes, that provides hope, tubing hill in North America! mentorship and family to teens Soon, family and friends and young adults aging out of will gather around the table to foster care. It’s a story that has indulge in all of our favorites, touched my heart, and one like turkey, dressing, sweet we’re happy to share with potato souffle, and perhaps, if our readers on p. 40. you’re lucky, my mom’s famous We put a lot of love into — at least in our household each issue, and do our best — pecan cookies (find the to shine a light on all of the recipe on p. 18). We’ve even people, places and things enlisted the help of etiquette that make our community coach Fran Christian, who such a great place to live — encourages us to mind our P’s not just during the holidays, and Q’s at the dinner table this but throughout the year. year (p. 28). Boutique wine Whatever you do this shop Sip Happens has also holiday season, we wish you graciously provided suggested comfort and joy from our family wine pairings for all of the to yours. flavors sure to fill our plates (p.

62). Cheers!

In between all of the festivities, I have to remind myself that the true 6 Healthy Ways to Sleigh Holiday Stress spirit of the season is one of giving.

Oftentimes that can lead to shopping ON THE COVER: lists seemingly miles long, which THE Cover can be a lot to photographed on October handle! Thankfully, 12th by Karl Lamb. Wreath our Holiday Gift Traditions & Recipes provided by Holiday Wines ✦ Etiquette Tips Letters to Santa Guide (p. 44) does Carol Guest WREATH Interiors.

MAKING TIPS the legwork for you and highlights a RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT:

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ANGELA VEUGELER President / Editor-in-Chief angela@suwaneemagazine.com RANDALL VEUGELER Vice President and Publisher ALICIA CARTER Managing Editor NATALIE STUBBS / TAMMY LUNEY Ad Managers ads@suwaneemagazine.com

Creative Director RANDALL VEUGELER Art Director ERICA ABRAMS Writers LIZZY KIDNEY NATALIE STUBBS Production Manager LAURA PAYNE Web Editors WALT WOODEN • CLARKE GLIDEWELL Digital Marketing Manager PRISCILLA SALMASI Graphic Design APRIL MILLER • SHAY HARBAUGH BRIAN HASSINGER • LAURA HOLCOMBE • RYAN THOMAS Photographers KARL LAMB • JULIE PERDUE WALT WOODEN

Sales JULIE PERDUE 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.

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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. ©2018 Veugeler Design Group. The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Alicia Carter at Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com.

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grow suwanee business community news and info.

GWINNETT'S 200TH BIRTHDAY 14

AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS Q&A: NEW TOOLS FOR INVESTING 15

BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT

HEARTIS SUWANEE

Heartis Suwanee is an inclusive retirement community with resort-style amenities that encourages its residents to live inspired while also living well.

STORY BY LIZZY KIDNEY

ow do you envision retirement? Do you see yourself enjoying chef-prepared meals, ambling along beautifully landscaped trails, or relaxing at a beauty or barber shop?

What if we told you there is a senior living community right here in Suwanee that offers all of these amenities and more? Heartis Suwanee, located near Town Center Park at the northwest corner of Suwanee Dam and Brogdon roads, will soon open its doors to those looking for a more enjoyable retirement.

Heartis Suwanee is a continuation of Caddis Healthcare Real Estate’s major expansion into the Southeast and is the second Heartis senior living community in Georgia. It is managed by Frontier Management, an experienced senior living operations management company that currently operates 11 Heartis communities, and is ranked No. 20 among the nation’s Top 50 Largest U.S. Seniors Housing Operators by the American Seniors Housing Association.

The state-of-the-art senior community encourages its residents to live inspired while also

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living well. It is dedicated to helping its residents continue to live as independently as possible, while also supplying the tools needed to lead full, active and enjoyable lives. With three lodging options — independent living, assisted living, and memory care — residents have the ability to choose the accommodations that best fit their needs and lifestyle.

“Heartis Suwanee is proud to be part of the vision of the City of Suwanee,” says Executive Director Sharise Thurman. ”We are excited to be inclusive, engaged, and welcoming of everyone of all ages, cultures, and backgrounds at the highquality community the residents will call their home.”

Heartis houses 175 units in single-story, two-story, and three-story buildings totaling more than 180,000 square feet.

The senior community boasts first-class amenities such as spacious accommodations; large, secured courtyards; beautifully landscaped grounds with walking paths; game and activity rooms; a beauty and barber shop; large dining rooms that serve home-cooked meals; social and recreational activities and religious services; and relaxing common areas.

In addition to resort-style amenities, residents also live in close proximity to the Mall of Georgia, Suwanee Town Center, and medical facilities such as Gwinnett Medical and Northside Hospital in Johns Creek, so shopping, restaurants, parks and more are all

WITH THREE LODGING OPTIONS — INDEPENDENT LIVING, ASSISTED LIVING, AND MEMORY CARE — RESIDENTS HAVE THE ABILITY TO CHOOSE THE ACCOMMODATIONS THAT BEST FIT THEIR NEEDS AND LIFESTYLE.

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nearby. The facility also provides special services such as a nurse-supervised staff; 24-hour emergency call systems; assistance with personal activities and medication supervision.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

Above: Heartis Suwanee is dedicated to helping residents live as independently as possible while providing 24-hour support.

Heartis’ independent living spaces are an ideal choice for seniors who want an active, engaging lifestyle, but no longer want to worry about maintaining yard work or household chores. There are a variety of floor plan options to choose from, including studio apartments, onebedrooms, or two-bedroom apartments with utilities included in the cost of each. Residents have access to a private dining room, bar, and outdoor terrace as well as a full salon, spa, and exercise room. Residents can also take a dip in the resort-style pool or stroll along the walking paths while the staff takes care of the housekeeping and laundry.

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MEMORY CARE

ASSISTED LIVING

Assisted living at Heartis is the perfect fit for an older adult who may need assistance with daily activities such as getting dressed or bathing but still wants to maintain an active lifestyle. The assisted service programs are designed to meet each resident’s specific needs, while also encouraging them to grow, thrive, and be connected with the community through their diverse Montessori-based programming. Residents at the assisted living facility will have access to all of Heartis’ amenities, in addition to a 24-hour nurse, weekly housekeeping, laundry, and home maintenance.

The memory care services are personalized to each individual and offer a safe and secure environment to help enrich the lives of residents with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The memory care facilities not only have specific physical features that help make them valuable, but they also feature special programming that stems from the lifelong learning philosophy on which they are built, based on the work of Boston’s Dr. Cameron Camp and his incorporation of Montessori principles.

 Heartis Suwanee’s vision of retirement is one that is inclusive to the needs of a diverse group of people. Providing both 24-hour support and the freedom to live an independent lifestyle, Heartis Suwanee is the ideal choice for those looking to lead a full, active and enjoyable life well into their golden years.

To learn more about Heartis Suwanee visit their sales office located at 425 Buford Highway Suite 106-B, Suwanee, 30024, or call 770-614-6601.

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GWINNETT CELEBRATES 200 YEARS WITH BIRTHDAY BASH BY: LIZZY KIDNEY On December 15, Gwinnett County will officially celebrate 200 years of rich history.

Gwinnett was founded on December 15, 1818, and was named after one of Georgia’s three signers of the Declaration of Independence, Button Gwinnett.

From its humble beginnings in the 1800s to its unprecedented growth and success, Gwinnett has had a lot of milestones to celebrate throughout its 200-year history.

Over the past year and a half, Button Gwinnett and running through December 15, 2018, Gwinnett has celebrated its anniversary by honoring its history, recognizing and remembering the people who make our community great, and highlighting the vision of Gwinnett’s promising future. More than 200 events, community celebrations, and a Bicentennial Torch making its way through Gwinnett County have all led up to the Birthday Bash and Celebration Gala taking place December 15.

The Bicentennial Celebration will kick off with a free Family Cultural Birthday Party at the Hudgens Center for Art and Learning (10 a.m.-2 p.m.), where visitors will take part in birthday celebrations and traditions from countries all over the world.

And in true birthday fashion, attendees can enjoy hands-on activities, stilt walkers, cultural performances, storytelling, an ice carving, costumed characters, and food trucks. The celebration winds down with Gwinnett’s 200th Birthday Celebration Gala, a ticketed event at the Infinite Energy Center.

Visit Gwinnett200.com to find out more about the morning’s free activities, the evening’s ticketed event, and to learn more about Gwinnett’s Bicentennial Celebration. ■

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I N V E S T M E N T S T R AT E G I E S BY: Bill and Cindi Porter, AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS

Q: Are there any new tools for investing in the stock market?

A: Yes, there are many. Let’s discuss one that is sometimes overlooked.

In the 1990s, personal computers introduced the ability for any individual to produce top-quality word processing. Typewriters, white-out, and replacement typing ribbon soon became obsolete and so did the companies that made them. The stocks of those companies were devastated because new technology tossed their products into the historical trash bin of the “no longer needed” items. Not anticipating the effects of new innovation, new merchandising methods, and new consumer demands may leave an investor with some worthless stock certificates which had once been valuable.

A possible current example would be Avon. After manufacturing women’s cosmetics and marketing their products with direct sales people for more than 100 years, this past summer Avon sold its last remaining factory to a French competitor. Avon, who once had a sales force of over 200,000, failed to update its products, develop an online strategy, or capitalize on social media.

In the same way, Sears, which was founded in 1892, was once an incredible merchandising behemoth. After failing to adjust for the times, however, it is now desperately struggling to avoid bankruptcy. The point is that analyzing the future prospects of a company (or an entire industry) in regard to becoming irrelevant is now a required new metric for a successful investor.

Consider the fallout from iPhones and its effect on the manufacturers of flashlights, alarm clocks, cameras, newspapers, calculators, telephone books, cassette recorders, landline telephones, etc. Similarly, Amazon is replacing the entire concept of shopping at the mall. All investments involve some type of risk.

Obsolescence is now a much more prevalent risk than ever before. What is next? That is a conversation to have with your trusted Obsolescence is now a much more prevalent advisor — investment risk due to new innovation, probably merchandising methods, and consumer demands. sooner rather than later! ■ This hypothetical example is for illustrative purposes only, should not be deemed a representation of past or future results and is no guarantee of return or future performance. This example does not represent any specific product and/or service. A 6% annual rate of return is for illustrative purposes only.

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. Neither the firm nor its agents or representatives may give tax or legal advice. Individuals should consult with a qualified professional for guidance before making any purchasing decisions.

Send your investment questions to: submissions@ SuwaneeMagazine.com

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2018

HOLIDAY TR ADITIONS & RECIPES

ne of the greatest parts of the holidays is the sweet familiarity of our annual holiday traditions.

From the aromas of our special recipes filling the house to the fun of gathering together in matching PJs, we each have our own unique way of celebrating with family and friends. This year, we asked members of our community to share their families’ traditions in hopes that they may inspire you to gather together and create some new ones of your own. STORY BY ALICIA CARTER

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HOLIDAY TR ADITIONS & RECIPES

Christmas Pecan Cookies My mom makes my brother and I wait all year for her Christmas Pecan Cookies. And trust me, they’re worth the wait! She piles the small but mighty pecan bites on a big plate and then loads on the powdered sugar making it look like a delicious snowy mountain. She claims it’s just a simple recipe from a vintage Betty Crocker cookbook, but the amount of love she puts into them and the anticipation leading up to devouring them make them so much more than that to us!

DIRECTIONS:

INGREDIENTS: ■ 1/3 cup margarine or butter, softened ■ 1 package (3 ounces) cream cheese, softened ■ 3/4 cup all purpose flour ■ 36 pecan halves ■ Powdered sugar - ALICIA CARTER

Suwanee Magazine Managing Editor

Mix margarine and cream cheese.

Stir in flour until soft dough forms. Cover and refrigerate until firm, at least 8 hours. Roll dough into rectangle, 12x9 inches, on cloth-covered board generously sprinkled with powdered sugar. Cut dough into rectangles, each 3x1 inch. Place one pecan half on one end of each rectangle; roll up, beginning at the 1-inch end. Pinch end and sides to seal. Place cookie, end seam sides down, on an ungreased cookie sheet. Bake until golden brown, 15-17 minutes, then cool. Sprinkle with powdered sugar.

For more holiday recipes visit SuwaneeMagazine.com.

The Doherty Family’s

CHRISTMAS PAJAMAS I asked my youngest what her favorite thing is about our Christmas family traditions and she told me it was getting new pajamas. Every year, all of my family members get to open ONE gift when we get home from church on Christmas Eve and it’s always a new pair of pajamas. That way we are all camera ready on Christmas Day! One year they all matched — some years they are all for comfort or maybe a theme that each person likes. It’s been going on for maybe about six years or so but now that I know she likes it, I’m sure I will keep it going!

- AMY DOHERTY

City of Suwanee Events and Outreach Manager

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KOREAN SPICE TURKEY  Our family's Thanksgiving tradition is to dedicate the day to reflecting on what we're grateful for. We have a large family, so it's gotten harder to get together but we start our day eating a light breakfast in our pajamas. Our menu is a little unique as we incorporate our "Korean" spices to the mix.

We love the standard baking the turkey in the oven bag.

Our stuffing is a fried rice with celery, onions, stuffing spices, carrots, and green onion and eggs stir fried on a wok. We stir fry our green beans with light avocado oil and lots of garlic and herbs and have steamed broccoli with Ghee butter.

We always have kimchee (fermented cabbage) as a side dish and of course finish off with pumpkin pie.

- CONNIE JEON

Founder, Alkaline Wellness

“Chokolade” Letters Our family has a holiday tradition that has been

passed down for generations and it involves chocolate! My family is Dutch and part of our holiday tradition is that each year, we give and receive a “chokolade letter" that corresponds to the first letter of our name. The chocolate letters can be milk (melk) or dark (puure) chocolate and are always delicious (lekker)! In the Netherlands, children who leave their clogs (klompen) out by the fireplace, receive a letter from Sinterklaas!

In our family, our Dutch letters are gifts given to children and adults alike by our parents and grandparents. No one wants to be left out! I also give chocolate letters to friends and colleagues as a unique and personal holiday gift.

- LINNEA MILLER, Suwanee City Council

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A Southern Thanksgiving

The Law Family’s

CHRISTMAS TRADITIONS My family and I love the holidays and we each have our favorite one. My favorite holiday is Christmas. I love to decorate my home, attend celebrations, shop for gifts, and spend time with my family. On Christmas Eve, my father’s family has a “pot luck” dinner and everyone attends. We have been doing this since I was a small child and it is fun to visit with my cousins.

My dad had eight brothers and sisters so the family gathering involves a large number of people! As a child, I looked forward to opening gifts at the family gathering, but now I have fun passing out the gifts to the little children!

My parents live in North Georgia and we stay at their home each Christmas Eve. I have never spent Christmas at my own house. As a child and adult, Christmas morning has always been rushing to the den in my parent’s home to see what Santa brought. It was also fun to see if Santa ate his cookies and milk or Diet Coke! Santa gifts and stockings were opened first followed by breakfast. The tradition for breakfast is sausage balls and waffles!

Following breakfast, we open the rest of the gifts. One person opens a gift then the next person until everyone has opened a gift and then we go around again until everyone has opened all their gifts. This takes a while, but I love to see what each person gets so we have to take turns!

Another one of my favorite traditions happens at my husband’s family home. His father would recite the Christmas Story from the Bible without having to actually open the Bible. I was always impressed with his memorization and focus on details of the story without ever having to look at the source.

As my children grow up, we experience these traditions from a different perspective each year, and we continue to add new traditions in our immediate family. Spending the holidays with my family is very special to me and the traditions are an expected part of the celebrations.

- WANDA LAW

North Gwinnett Middle School Principal

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Every Thanksgiving we go to Northwest Tennessee to visit grandparents and extended family. The Saturday after Thanksgiving we drive up to Grand Rivers, Kentucky, to visit Patti’s 1880s Settlement and have dinner at Patti’s Dining Room. Patti’s is known for their extensive dessert menu and “mile high” meringue pies.

There are several quaint shops, mini golf and a petting zoo all located on beautiful Kentucky Lake. During the holidays there are thousands of twinkling lights and toys and flowers displayed, and of course Santa is always available to receive the kids’ Christmas wishes.

We received some sad news this past February that there was a kitchen fire in the restaurant and Patti’s would have to be rebuilt from the ground up. They will not be able to re-open until Spring of 2019. Unfortunately, we may have to find another way to usher in the Christmas season this year, but we are excited to see the new building in 2019!

- THE GALLAGHER FAMILY

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HOLIDAY

PHOTO COURTESY SUWANEE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS

TR ADITIONS & RECIPES

SUWANEE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS

Gingerbread Festival THE BELOVED ANNUAL TRADITION SIGNALS THE GREATEST TIME OF THE YEAR IS FINALLY UPON US.

Since 2007, the Gingerbread Festival has hosted performances by the talented young singers and dancers of Suwanee Performing Arts’ Sounds of Suwanee and Suwanee Ballet, a gingerbread house contest, and an interactive telling of The Nutcracker

by Suwanee Academy’s own Ms. Bernie during an intimate tea party.

There’s a lot of fun to be had this year, so don’t miss out!

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THE SUWANEE BALLET PERFORMS AT JINGLE IN THE PARK

NUTCRACKER TEA

In addition to all the merriment at this year’s Jingle in the Park (read more about it on pg. 26), the Suwanee Ballet will also be performing.

Sat., Dec. 1st I Suwanee Town Center Park

Imagine an enchanting tale brought to life through magical storytelling and delightful dancing by the Suwanee Ballet. $28, $10 for extra observer.

Sat., Dec. 8th, 11:30am and Sun., Dec. 9th, 3pm Suwanee Academy of the Arts "Mainstreet Playhouse," 341 Main St., Suwanee

GINGERBREAD HOUSE CONTEST

BEST OF THE NUTCRACKER

This year, Suwanee Academy of the Arts invites you to bring the gingerbread house you created at Jingle in the Park to their HQ (341 Main St., Suwanee) for display.

While you’re there, vote on your favorite gingerbread house. The Most Popular winner will be announced after the Nutcracker Tea on Sunday, Dec. 9.

Selections from The Nutcracker will be performed by the Suwanee Ballet, where you’ll see everything you love about the classic holiday ballet, including dazzling costumes and exciting performances.

Sat., Dec. 15th, 11am, 3pm and 6pm I The Eagle Theatre, 5029 W. Broad St. N.E., Sugar Hill

TAC-KY CHRISTMAS SWEATER EXTRAVAGANZA Get ready for a fun-filled evening in which The Actor’s Company presents a side-splitting improv show highlighting the fun side of Christmas. $10.

Sat., Dec 8th, 7pm I Suwanee Academy of the Arts "Mainstreet Playhouse," 341 Main St., Suwanee

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For more information about the Gingerbread Festival, and to purchase tickets, visit suwaneeperforms.com or Suwanee Academy of the Arts’ Facebook page. ■

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Wreath Making Tips

PHOTO

BY WALT WOODEN

There’s nothing like a festive Christmas wreath on your front door to celebrate the holiday season. Whether you’re enchanted with the traditional designs or a lush and leafy design, wreaths are an easy way to add holiday cheer to your entrance with little effort.

BY CAROL GUEST, OWNER OF CAROL GUEST INTERIORS

aking a stunning Christmas wreath is simple. Just gather the right supplies, seasonal embellishments, and a large dose of holiday spirit! Here are a few points to consider as you make your dream wreath.

Size: A wreath should be positioned

about one-third down from the top of the door. Standard exterior doors are 36 inches wide and will look great with a wreath 22-24 inches in diameter. For an

oversized door, you may want to consider a wreath with a 28- to 30-inch diameter.

This larger size will carry the appropriate scale in relation to the door. The larger the wreath, the higher you should hang it on the door!

Style: The style you choose will also be taken from the interior style of the holiday spirit you are creating inside your home. If you like a more bold approach, you may want to place a more robust wreath on the door.

Color and Textures: Think of the

Keep in mind that there are many trends during the holiday season. Your holiday is special to you. Capture your own holiday spirit with joyous memories that you can bring alive every year! ■

color combination when selecting your stems or flowers. The wreath colors should coordinate with the interior of your home or your chosen theme. Bring in a variety of texture to enhance and create a hearty look.

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HOLIDAY TR ADITIONS & RECIPES

Chill Out!

License To Chill Snow Island brings a slice of island life to the ’burbs this holiday season with an all-new winter wonderland. BY ALICIA CARTER ow’d you like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island?

While most of us dream of a white Christmas filled with snow angels, mistletoe and hot cocoa, Jimmy Buffett had a decidedly different vision of the holidays, where coconuts, ocean views and other tropical delights steal the show. And who could blame him? Here in Georgia we know what it’s like to spend Christmas sans snow. And although we may not have the palm trees and sea breezes Buffett lovingly croons about in his songs, we can still experience a slice of island life this holiday season thanks to a new attraction opening at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands in November.

Safe Harbor Development LLC, who partnered with Lanier

Islands to open Margaritaville in May, recently announced a $3.5 million investment that will include the arrival of License to Chill Snow Island. The holiday attraction weaves traditional holiday revelry with maritime flourishes and features a smorgasbord of activities for the family, including winterthemed carnival rides, an iceskating rink, snow play areas, fire pit s’mores, a Santa photo op beneath the Fin Dunker, and specialty winter drinks at LandShark Landing. According to Safe Harbor, the star of the island is the all-new snow tubing hill, which has been marketed as the fastest in North America.

“We can’t wait to debut this unique, island-inspired winter wonderland at Margaritaville at Lanier Islands,” said Darby Campbell, President of Safe Harbor Development LLC. “We’re giving new meaning to ‘chill out’ with some exciting new attractions

- License to Chill Snow Island features the fastest snow tubing hill in North America.

and look forward to seeing Margaritaville at Lanier Islands become a true yearround destination.”

License to Chill Snow Island is set against the backdrop of the twinkling lights of Lanier’s original holiday spectacle, Magical Nights of Lights. This year the beloved annual lights Darby Campbell, display has President of Safe Harbor received a bit Development LLC. of a facelift with the addition of an extra mile of lights and 19 new displays, some of which will be Margaritaville-themed like the “It’s 5 O’clock Somewhere” clock.

Classic favorites such as the “12 Days of Christmas” will also make their return.

Opening November 16, License to Chill Snow Island and Magical Nights of Lights usher in the best time of year while also offering a taste of Buffett’s interpretation of yuletide cheer. If you’ve ever wanted to catch a glimpse of Christmas Island, load up the family and take a trip to Lanier Islands for a new take on the holiday tradition. Don’t you want to stay here all season? ■

WE CAN’T WAIT TO DEBUT THIS INSPIRED WINTER WONDERLAND AT MARGARITAVILLE AT LANIER ISLANDS.

Entrance to Magical Nights of Lights starts at $43 per vehicle. Tickets to License to Chill Snow Island begin at $24.99. For more information, visit MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com.

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HOLIDAY TR ADITIONS & RECIPES

JINGLE IN THE PARK THE FAMILY-FRIENDLY EVENT THAT WILL BECOME YOUR NEW SUWANEE HOLIDAY TRADITION

Head over to Suwanee Town Center on December 1st for Jingle in the Park, a family-friendly holiday event benefiting HappyFeat, a local nonprofit whose mission is to create inclusive opportunities for people living with disabilities. The day will kick off with a 5K, and will be jam-packed with more festive fun than you can shake a candy cane at, including a gingerbread house competition, a kids area dubbed the Candy Cane Forest, and the Mistletoe Marketplace with eclectic items from local vendors and makers to help kick off your holiday shopping. There will also be live entertainment throughout the day, including performances by Walnut Grove Elementary School, Jones Middle School Chorus, Mill Creek Show Choir, North Gwinnett Middle School Guitar Club, Suwanee Academy of the Arts, and more. Here, we’ve highlighted some of the fun not to be missed as you jingle, jangle through the park.

The Run, Run Rudolph 5K & Prancer’s PJ Fun Run ❋ Jingle in the Park kicks off with the Run, Run Rudolph 5K (a Peachtree Road Race qualifier) and Prancer’s PJ Fun Run, where participants are encouraged to get in the spirit of the season and don holiday running attire or Christmas PJs, and even dress up their strollers, bikes or dogs with festive flair! Awards will be given to the top three overall male and female runners, as well as the top male and female in each age group. Additional awards include Best Bike Decorations, Most Spirited Jingle in the Park Family, Most Spirited Individual Holiday Spirit, and Most Spirited Dog. All Fun Run participants will receive Jingle Bells. To register, visit JingleInThePark.com.

Candy Cane Forest ❋ Kids will delight in the merriment of the season as they hop from activity to activity. There will be photo ops with

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Buddy the Elf (10 a.m.-1 p.m.), Elsa and Ana (11 a.m.-2 p.m.), as well as the Grinch (3-5 p.m.), inflatables, holiday crafts like gingerbread houses and a make-an-ornament station, crazy Cindy Lou Who hair, face-painting, a Letter to Santa writing area, and more.  Purchase wristbands online at JingleInThePark.com for $25 for all day access (10 a.m.-5 p.m.) to the inflatables, rides and games. Individual tickets can also be purchased on site the day of the event. ■

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Mistletoe Marketplace The Mistletoe Marketplace will feature vendors from across the country offering a variety of handcrafted items, from clothing, jewelry and accessories to housewares and holiday decor. Vendors include craftspeople, fine artists and food vendors. Some notables include:

INDIGO CHILD In the fall of 2016, The Indigo Child opened its doors in Athens, Georgia. Founder and hippie boss, Morgan Miller, found herself in love and inspired by The Classic City and everything it offered. Amazing food, killer jams and Southern hospitality made perfect sense for this fashionista looking for her next show. Morgan’s passion for music and clothes were her inspiration in making her dream come alive. The Indigo Child was created to give all of you beautiful babes the opportunity to love yourself, embrace your funky side, and rock confidence.

HAITI METAL ART WRITTEN BY J Created by Josie Hadaway, Written by J creates meaningful hand lettered paintings, signs, mugs, cards, and more for people to enjoy as well as offering custom orders.

Haiti Metal Art is handcrafted from Haitian Artisans & sold to support the livelihood of artisans like Junior, pictured here. The artisans recycle 55 gallon oil drums to create their items to sell. They are pounded flat to provide a metal canvas. The artisans then draw designs and chisel, cut and shape unique works of art.

JIMMIWZ For a full list of vendors, sponsors, and more information about Jingle in the Park, visit JingleInThePark.com.

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Social Graces

Incorporate these etiquette tips to impress at your next holiday gathering.

BY FRAN CHRISTIAN / PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB

HOLIDAY DINNER PARTY The origin of the word etiquette comes from “etiquets.” Yes, it’s French. Guests of King Louis XIV had no regard for the manicured landscaping at Versailles and kept walking all over the grass. So the gardener placed signs, or etiquets, which read “keep off the grass.” The king decreed that no one could go beyond the bounds of the etiquets. Later, etiquets were given with instructions on how to behave socially at court functions. Imagine a party of 2,000 staying for months or a year consuming food, wine, and champagne in one of the most extravagant palaces in history.

There had to be some rules for guests! Today, etiquette is used to define the guidelines for social behavior in our culture. Manners are how one uses the knowledge of etiquette in family, social, and business situations, and encourage kindness, consideration, and respect toward others in our culture.

As you make the rounds at all of the parties, dinners, and other get-togethers this holiday season, or if you host one of your own, keep these etiquette tips in mind. After all, a few simple tips can make the holiday events in your life much more enjoyable!

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ETIQUETTE TIPS RSVP. RSVP means please respond.

Make your decision to attend or decline before you respond and always respond before the RSVP deadline date. Avoid saying things like, “I might be able to come” or “Can I let you know later?” It is hard to plan for food and refreshments without a firm commitment from the guest.

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HOLIDAY TR ADITIONS & RECIPES

ARRIVE ON TIME WITHIN 10 MINUTES. If it is a sitdown dinner and you are going to be later than 10 minutes, a call is more polite than a text.

This way you know your host received the information in real time. If it turns out that you are going to be really late, when you speak with your host, you might suggest that the host not delay the dinner on your account.

Manners at the Dinner Table 1. Holiday dinners are always memorable for children growing up and a great time for them to practice their manners and experience “dining.” So first, have patience with everyone including children.

DON’T ASK TO BRING A FRIEND.

2. Wait until everyone is at the table before taking your seat.

Unless, of course, the host has specifically expressed that you are welcome to do so.

3. Place the napkin in your lap, but don’t begin your meal until you see your host begin.

CONSIDER TAKING A HOSTESS GIFT. You could bring a bottle of wine (only if you know your host well). If you take flowers, it’s nice to present them in a vase so the hostess doesn’t have to stop and find a vase, arrange flowers, and add water. If you leave your gift in a gift bag for the hostess to find later, be sure to use an enclosure card with your name so the host can properly thank you.

4. Avoid requesting condiments that are not on the table.

5. Include the guests to your left and to your right in conversation. Don’t talk over them to the person who is two seats away. You may also speak directly across the table but avoid addressing the entire table of guests unless it’s a toast. Avoid subjects like religion, politics and sad stories. Keep it light!

6. When toasting, avoid using utensils to tap the rim of the stemware to get everyone’s attention. If it’s crystal stemware, one tap could shatter the wine or champagne glass. Oops!

7. When the dinner is over, always thank your host and refer to one thing that you especially enjoyed. However, it’s not polite to ask for recipes at this time.

8. Don’t detain your host at the door with a long conversation when leaving the event. Other guests may be waiting to thank the host before leaving. ■

FRAN CHRISTIAN

Fran uses a diagram as well as hands-on instruction to teach what each piece of silverware is used for.

Fran Christian has lived in the Atlanta area most of her life. Over the years, Fran has enjoyed hosting private formal charity events for Multiple Sclerosis. A few years ago, a new passion was realized, teaching etiquette classes, so she developed a program and taught through the community school at the high school. Now her business is expanding and more classes are offered.

“I want to inspire students and adults to use etiquette knowledge as a tool to develop their own style of refinement so that they will feel naturally comfortable at any social or business event,” she says.

For more information, visit etiquettesuwanee.wixsite. com/website.

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your health,

wellness and happiness

FAMILY MATTERS: HOLIDAYS AFTER DIVORCE 35 /// 2018 GET FIT CHALLENGE UPDATE 36 /// CONNECTIONS HOMES 40

6 Healthy Ways to Sleigh Holiday Stress Is there anything you can do to put a ho-ho-hold on seasonal stressors?

Hira Kohli, MD, a primary care provider at the GMC Primary Care & Specialty Center-Suwanee, shares six easy things you can do to stay feeling holiday obsessed instead of seasonally stressed.

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With the holidays just around the corner, you know the drill — holiday songs on every radio station, festive parties to attend, and special gifts to find. Heck, just reading this article you can probably feel the stress starting to grow, right along with your to-do list.

And if miraculously getting everything done wasn’t enough, you’re expected to be merry and jolly all season long or risk being called a Scrooge.

1. Get organized.

Oftentimes, trying to keep track of everything you need to do by memory can be anxiety-inducing on its own, let alone during the holidays. We tend to overthink things, going over them again and again, which only amplifies things and makes them feel more stressful.

TAKEAWAY TIP: The next time you have a few minutes to spare, sit down, think through everything you need to do and write it down.

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2. Stick to your routines.

Whenever you’re stressed out and tight on time, healthy habits tend to fall by the wayside, but the holidays are no time to change up your schedule as this may only worsen stress.

TAKEAWAY TIP: Whether it’s sticking to your diet and going to your usual exercise class or simply brushing your teeth before bed, these habits will help you — and your body — handle stress.

thrive

5. Don't overdo it.

We’ve all been guilty of getting caught up in the moment and spending more than we planned on. After all, you can’t find the perfect gift just anywhere — right?

Unfortunately, though, overspending can be a major stressor that sticks with you even after the holidays have long gone.

TAKEAWAY TIP: Don’t be afraid to be honest. Try recommending an amount or price limit so no one feels like they are overspending or being out-gifted. You can also plan to exchange gifts after the holidays are over, when there is no shortage of sales, specials and deals.

6. Don’t go it alone.

No matter how hard you try, there’s simply no way you can do everything on your own this holiday season — something has to give. But it doesn’t have to be your health.

TAKEAWAY TIP: Work with your primary care provider to address all of your unique health needs. As the expert who knows you best, they can help you navigate this stressful time of year and overcome the season’s biggest health hazards.

3. Give your presence instead of presents.

With so much to do and so little time, it’s easy to develop a just-get-it-done mindset instead of actually enjoying the moment.

TAKEAWAY TIP: Try to focus on one thing at a time and be mindful about what you are doing while you are doing it. You’ll enjoy the time you spend with your friends and family more and so will they.

4. Give back.

It isn’t just gifts that you should be giving this holiday season. Whether it’s your time, energy or money, giving back to your community can make a big difference — and not just for those you’re helping. In fact, studies have shown that generosity and compassion can support overall health and longevity.

 Find your healthy holiday at the GMC Primary Care & Specialty Center-Suwanee. With extensive services, helpful resources and personal support, you’ll be able to make the most of this special season. Peace of mind is possible with expert health care you can always count on. To learn more about the wide range of services, or to schedule an appointment, visit gwinnettmedicalcenter.org/ Suwanee.

TAKEAWAY TIP: If you feel like time is just too tight, remember that even one small random act of kindness can go a long way.

HIRA KOHLI, MD Primary care provider at the GMC Primary Care & Specialty Center-Suwanee

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FAMILY MAT TERS

thrive

By Laura Lebovitz, LMFT, Grow Counseling

Navigating the Holidays After a Divorce ivorce never feels like a simple process, but around the holidays it can feel even more complicated. After all, the holidays can feel overwhelming even without any major changes in the family dynamics! The shift in holiday routines and traditions can be difficult to navigate especially in a family with kids.

Even though it can seem like a difficult task to make the holidays go smoothly after divorce, it’s possible to have a great holiday season with the right communication and planning!

Here are some questions to think through this holiday season: Joint or separate presents?

Gift giving can be one of the trickiest areas to navigate for newly divorced parents. Try to address this upfront and without the kids being present to keep the magic in the holiday season for your kids. Discuss what gifts are being purchased Before committing ahead of time and how you to celebrating the both will split the finances of the holidays if you are doing holidays together, joint presents.

Should you celebrate together?

it is important to decide if it is possible for the celebration to stay happy without any major arguments or tension.

Some divorced parents struggle with trying to decide if they should try to celebrate some shared holiday traditions together even after the separation or divorce. Before committing to celebrating together, it is important to decide if it is possible for the celebration to stay happy without any major arguments or tension. If you decide that you’d like to celebrate together, have a conversation with your kids beforehand to avoid any unrealistic expectations of you getting back together. You can let them know that mom or dad is coming over to spend time with you, but that they are going back to their house afterwards. Set boundaries around the amount of time you will all spend together and if extended family will be included in the joint celebrations as well.

How can you create new traditions?

For many families, traditions that you do year after year are the cornerstone of the holidays. Try to avoid getting hung up on maintaining the traditions and instead focus on creating a joyful holiday season for your kids. Talk to your kids about what rituals are most important for them to keep and even some ideas about new traditions they may like to start doing. Have a cookie baking competition, find a new special movie to watch, or even a great volunteer opportunity to do together as a family! Don’t fall victim to the pressures of the holiday season…your holidays don’t have to look like everyone else’s!

Are you taking good care of yourself?

The holidays are stressful for everyone but can be especially stressful for parents trying to make the best celebration for their kids. Be kind to yourself this holiday season. Find time to spend with friends, give back to a special cause in the community, or even find a nice moment to relax with a festive baked good of your own! ◆ LAURA LEBOVITZ, LMFT Laura 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 children, adolescents, young adults, and families dealing with a variety of concerns. She specializes in working with anxiety, autism, self-harm, life transitions like divorce, and building healthy relationships within families.

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GET FIT CHALLENGE: WHERE ARE THEY NOW? The 2018 Get Fit Challenge contestants give us an update on their fitness journeys.

BY ALICIA CARTER / PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE

his time last year we put out a call to the community looking for people who wanted to get fit.

Many of you applied, but in the end, we narrowed it down to six contestants. We challenged them to a three-month commitment to take control of their health while supplying them the tools and resources to be successful, including a free membership to a local gym, mentorship from a trainer, and group workshops that included nutrition,

education and exercise. The support of the community was overwhelming, and we are so proud of the hard work of each of the contestants.

During the 2018 Get Fit Challenge, the contestants lost a combined total of 117 pounds and 17 inches. As we approach the end of the year, we reached out to the contestants to find out if they stuck with their

new healthy routines and what they’ve been up to in the months following the challenge.

Reigning Champ:

KEVIN BURKHART

ďƒ¨Nine months after the Get Fit Challenge began, I am down 41 pounds of total weight, having lost approximately 50 pounds of fat and gained significant muscle. I am nearing my initial goal of 50 total pounds and doing it the RIGHT way!

Since the end of the Challenge, I have continued to workout at Crux Fitness several times per week. I experimented with my diet, adding back in some carbohydrates after primarily doing a Keto Diet.

I have found that some things work for me and some do not. When I

The 2018 Get Fit Challenge contestants reunited for a progress report in October.

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signed up for this Challenge, a motivating factor was that my work had taken priority over all other aspects of life, and I needed to adjust my priorities. I have recently started a new demanding career endeavor. Once again, I am finding work competing with exercise. However, this time around, I am equipped with a new mentality and new focus, putting my health and fitness as a top priority.

2nd Place:

AMY DOHERTY

I’m still working out at Alloy Personal Training for Women two times a week now. Anthony is the best trainer/coach/ accountability person I could have ever been matched to work with. I’ve managed to keep the weight I lost during the Get Fit Challenge off for the most part! I look forward to working out and I do feel so much better. My nutrition has improved overall but I still need to work on being healthy every day. Old habits are hard to break! I don’t let one day define my entire journey that got me to this point. I didn’t become unhealthy overnight and I should not expect to remain healthy if I don’t work at it! I’m coming up on my three-year anniversary of being a cancer survivor and I’m so happy to have survivor and THRIVER added to that title. The Get Fit Challenge was the jump-start I needed to take back my health!

SHONIKA OCHOA-WILLIAMS

Since the Suwanee Get Fit Challenge, I have officially become a member of the Crux Fitness family. It was a no-brainer for me because I feel so comfortable with the trainers, other members, and oddly enough even the workouts. Since the challenge, I have managed to get my weight back down to my prepregnancy size and I’m so proud of myself. Never would I have thought I would lose my baby weight before my son’s second birthday. This challenge truly was lifechanging for me! I completed my very first Rugged Maniac 5K. It was difficult but I completed it! Honestly, it doesn’t stop here. I enjoy getting into the gym as often as I can, and this has become a lifestyle for me. I have set a n ew g o a l f o r mys e l f t o b e i n the best shape I c a n b e by my n ex t m i l e s t o n e birthday. I have eight months to go!

SHERI MATT

I’m down just under 40 pounds since the start of the Get Fit Challenge on

January 2. I feel like I am losing at a turtle’s pace, but that averages to about a pound a week loss, and just like the turtle in the famous story, I will finish my race!

I’ve continued my relationship with Alloy but I am not currently working out there. I was a member at another gym prior to the Challenge and I have been going there. I also have been walking a lot with my husband and dog. Food wise, I joined Weight Watchers and have been learning to eat better. I turn 50 in November and even though I will not be where I wanted to be, I’m in such a better place physically and mentally than I was a year ago. If you’re thinking of applying for the next Get Fit Challenge, I say go for it! You will not regret it!

BILL PENNINGTON

After the Get Fit Challenge was over, I was able to maintain fairly easily. I hadn’t felt that good in years.

However, recently I started slipping into some of my old habits and have gained some of the weight back.

I didn’t continue to go to Stage 3 Fitness because I had another gym membership.

However, the other gym didn’t offer the classes that worked so well for me at Stage 3, and I just didn’t go as often.

I started back at Stage 3 in October along with my

• Receive a FREE three-month gym membership.

• Work out with fitness experts.

• Learn how to implement healthier food choices.

• Develop a plan to lose weight.

Register online at suwaneemagazine.com/getfit

TH E

ENTER THE 2019 GET FIT CHALLENGE. IF CHOSEN TO COMPETE YOU WILL:

D EA IS DL N IN O E V. T 19 O E . N TE R

ARE YOU READY TO GET FIT?

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wife. Working out together is even more motivating. When the challenge ended, I didn’t think it would be difficult for me to stay on track, but I’ve come to realize that my focus has to stay on point.

What worked to help me lose the weight needs to continue in order for me to maintain and get down to where I need to be. I’m thankful for the Get Fit Challenge and for this checkin, though I wish I had lost

ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?

instead of gained.

Onward and downward!

SUE BROWN

I am still working out at Stage 3 Fitness and loving it! Angie and her team are amazing at what they do and I'm so happy to be thriving 10 months later. I am getting stronger and more fit every day. I have maintained my weight loss and even lost

an additional three pounds and inches. My stepson just got married and I was able to fit into an amazing dress and feel really pretty. I'm so grateful that I was chosen to do the challenge. My life has been put on track. Working out and eating healthy has become a part of my life not just a thing to do to lose weight and then go back to bad habits. I highly recommend anyone thinking of entering the challenge that they do it. You won't be sorry and I would do it again in a minute!

Following the success of the 2018 competition, we’re bringing back the Get Fit Challenge for 2019! Beginning January 2nd, we will pair six Get

Fit Challenge contestants with a local gym where they will receive a free three-month membership.

During that time, contestants will work out with fitness experts, learn how to implement healthier food choices, and develop the goals and a plan catered to each individual. Suwanee Magazine and our readers will monitor your progress and cheer you on throughout. At the end of the challenge, we will announce the results in our May/June issue and online at suwaneemagazine.com.

Register online at suwaneemagazine.com/getfit by filling out an entry form with your information, a current photo, as well as why you want to compete in the challenge. The deadline to enter is Nov. 19.

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A LASTING LEGACY Connections Homes continues the legacy of a beloved member of our community by providing hope, mentorship and family to teens and young adults aging out of foster care.

our years ago, Suwanee residents Michael and Erin Lundmark planned to add to their family through adoption. The Lundmarks already had three wonderful children of their own, but Erin had a heart for children and was looking to adopt three teenage siblings who faced aging out of foster care. Michael felt that Erin had supported his dream of opening Jekyll Brewing, and now it was time to support her dream of adoption.

During the process of classes, paperwork, and health checks, however, the Lundmark family came face-to-face with the greatest trial of their lives.

An adoptionqualifying physical revealed Erin had stage four colon cancer.

The doctors gave Erin a bleak prognosis.

She fought cancer for three years with such incredible strength, faith, grace and positivity that it inspired everyone around her.

Earlier this year, Erin was invited to be on a “Jesus Calling” podcast during which she shared,

Erin Lundmark

"A cheerful heart is good medicine.

I want people to see God’s light shining through me. If someone says to me that they see God through me, there is nothing that excites my soul more.” Anyone who knew Erin well would say that she was a reflection of God’s love and light.

Erin lost her battle to cancer on August 15, 2018, leaving behind her beloved husband and three wonderful children she was so proud of, in addition to hundreds of close family and friends. Being the fighter that Erin was, she was determined not to depart this earth without leaving a mark for Jesus that would last beyond her life and into eternity for those who matter most to Jesus — the fatherless. In her final weeks, Erin made a request to her friend Jennifer Warawa to honor her own

IN HER FINAL WEEKS, ERIN'S FRIENDS AND FAMILY HELPED TO RAISE OVER $30,000 FOR CONNECTIONS HOMES.

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PHOTO COURTESY MICHAEL LUNDMARK

BY ANGELA VEUGELER

mission and take the journey full circle, giving the gift of family to youth aging out of foster care.

Erin’s legacy to provide the same belonging she hoped to give a teen without a family is kept alive through Connections Homes.

Erin invited everyone who has loved her, been inspired by her story, or prayed with and for her to participate in this legacy, and in her final weeks her friends and family helped to raise over $30,000. Warawa joined the Board of Directors for Connections Homes to work hands-on with their team to have an eternal impact, far beyond what Erin could have imagined.

CONNECTIONS HOMES

According to its website, Connections Homes was founded on Jesus’ words from John 14:18, “I will not leave you alone (comfortless, orphaned), I will come to you.”

Founder Pam Parish shares on the site, “As an organization, we believe that no one, especially a young person whose life circumstances are no fault of their own, should be alone in life. Our values as an organization move us continually forward in finding loving, lifelong family-like relationships for youth who are alone due to broken family systems.”

Read about youth who are currently being impacted and uplifted

by Connections Homes

We recently spoke with Pam Parish to learn more about Connections Homes and its impact in the community:

Before starting Connections Homes in 2014, you and your husband first decided to adopt in 2007. How did that lead to adopting seven more daughters, six of them between the ages of 11 and 18?

PAM PARISH: That’s a really good question. We certainly started with the idea of only adopting one daughter. We had no intention of being more than a family of four.

However, I got involved at our adoption agency, Bethany Christian Services, and began teaching the state curriculum for foster parents and helping with support groups. In the process I started to hear of other stories. Our third daughter (second adopted) was 16 when she came into our family after her previous adoption had disrupted.

I remember telling my

KELLY HOPKINS PHOTOGRAPHY

PHOTOS BY KALEB RODRIQUEZ

“Sandra (Connections Homes mentor) is amazing. She brings a lot of positivity to me. She always tries to help me find my way, she is easy to talk to. I talked to her about what I want to do after college, it was a life-changing moment, she helped me figure it out.”

husband that I knew of this 16-year-old who had been sent back into the foster system by her adoptive family and how sad it was for her because she might not ever have a family. He said, “Call our case worker and tell her that we will take her.” That’s exactly what we did, and we met her two weeks later on our doorstep with all of her belongings in garbage bags.

The next four came after the age of 18 from various circumstances (before Connections Homes began) — international adoption disruption, homelessness, and aging out of foster care.

Our eighth daughter came at age 24 through Connections Homes after we started.

Tell me a little bit about how and why you founded Connections Homes?

PP: When a problem literally knocks on your door four times in a row, it’s probably God trying to wake you up to something. In 2012 after our fourth daughter over 18 became a part of our family, our Pastors — Dennis and

ANDREA, AGE 20 Dreaming of a career in criminal justice

JARED, AGE 20, FOSTER YOUTH Dreaming of being a surgeon

ABOVE: Steve and Pam Parish and family.

“I was going through a rough patch in my life, waiting for a double kidney liver transplant, I had started dialysis and kind of wanted some extra support to help me get through these things. Barry and Trisha (Connections Homes mentors) are wonderful people. They have taken me to my first Braves game at the new stadium. They have given me support when I needed it, when things were looking down and dialysis was around the corner. They were there to give me that support that I needed to get through that day or that week or the month.”

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Colleen Rouse of Victory World Church in Norcross — asked us to pray about what God might be doing that was bigger than just our family. We did and the idea for Connections Homes was born.

When I began to dig into statistics, I discovered that over 500 youth were aging out of foster care in Georgia annually, 22,000 across the U.S., and that on average there are 3,400 homeless 18- to 24-year-olds in Atlanta on any given day. That’s when we knew that we had to do something. So, with Victory’s support, we began to build Connections Homes.

Initially we started with the idea of building a home that would house girls 18-24 who were aging out of foster care or homeless for up to two years. However, when I formed our Board of Directors and we began to look at the landscape, we realized that at the heart of what we’ve done in our family was a “forever” commitment, it was family. It would be impossible to truly be a forever family-like person in 30-plus lives. So, we began to ask ourselves what it would look like to design a model that would invite others in the community to do what we had done in our family — become a permanent connection for a young person over the age of 18 who has no one else. We ultimately created what was and is the first organization nationally to approach the problem of 18 to 24-year-olds who age out of foster care or are homeless without stability by putting a lifelong stable person in their lives.

MEGAN, AGE 21 FORMER FOSTER YOUTH Dreaming of being a naturopathic doctor “I had no way of getting to where I wanted to go.

Connections is really great. I would not be anywhere close to where I am right now without Jerry and Martha (Connections Homes mentoring family.) They helped me fill out my scholarship information, which helped me get my CNA. Now I’ve got that and am working at a great place, saving a lot of money. They are always willing to listen, no matter what. It could be 11:30 or 12:00 at night.”

WYATT, AGE 18 Dreaming of being a youth sports coach “Connections is very important.

Having a family is very important to me. Frank (Connections Homes mentoring family, Frank and Maria) is cancer free for 25 years. As soon as I saw that and watched his video, I felt very blessed they picked me. Having that influence, I could never replace that.”

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How many young adults do you typically match up with mentors annually?

PP: We just crossed our fouryear mark as an organization. In business terms, we’re just exiting our proof of concept stage. Over those four years we’ve connected [82 as of today but by publication time this will be over 95] youth to Mentoring Families. Next year,

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we will match and maintain 100 new connections for youth and Mentoring Families.

How does Connections Homes help in preventing poverty and homelessness for young adults aging out of foster care?

PP: The youth we work with are between the ages of 18-24 years old and are at high risk for chronic poverty and homelessness. 97% of youth who age out of foster care end up in poverty or worse, mainly due to lack of education or a skilled trade which would enable them to earn a living wage. The lack of education and skilled trade is commonly linked back to their inability to navigate adult systems of school, work, etc., and the absence of supportive adults who can help them overcome their obstacles (having correct documents, motivation, awareness of opportunities, etc.). Additionally, 65% of girls who age out of foster care or experience homelessness find themselves pregnant within the first year.

Youth need to feel positive and hopeful about their future and believe in their ability to achieve success with hard work, resilience, and resourcefulness. We want them to develop a sense of selfworth, self-esteem, confidence, and resolve in order to move beyond their setbacks and challenges. A successful transition for any teenager into adulthood doesn’t happen without a solid set of positive role models and advisors. For most of us, those took the form of family or childhood community. For youth who’ve aged out of foster care or are homeless without family, they are left to their own thinking or peer-level “wisdom” which contributes to a continued cycle of poverty, homelessness, and hopelessness.

The development of a safe, supportive, and stable relationship to a Mentoring Family allows the youth to feel supported in their endeavors while also providing the needed

thrive

accountability What are systems to keep other ways to the youth on help support track toward their Connections goals. Having a Homes? consistent person PP: We understand checking in on that not everyone is them, opening at a place right now up resources and that they can become opportunities, and a Mentoring Family, partnering with yet their hearts can them to overcome still be moved to help obstacles such this vulnerable and, as missing truthfully, forgotten Steve and Pam Parish documents population. Many (driver's licenses, people get involved as volunteers or birth certificates, etc.) helps the youth donors. In 2019 we will be opening to remain motivated and begin to the doors on a Career Connection aspire to a better life for themselves.

Center in downtown Lawrenceville Change occurs over time as the youth which will provide job interview develops the ability to trust that the clothing for youth 16-24 who are in relationship is sincere and begins to rely on their Mentoring Family for foster care, have aged out of foster advice, assistance with critical decisioncare, or are homeless. We will be making, and guidance. looking for lots of community support and volunteers to help with career What is involved if a person or coaching, clothing sorting, staffing the family is interested in becoming a center, skill building classes, and much mentor? more. That information and how to PP: Anyone interested can go to get involved will be on their website in our website and submit an interest early 2019. form. From there we have an online orientation that details the info about our program and what it Want to stay up to date on Connections Homes or do means to be more to help? Here are three easy ways: a Mentoring Family, then there’s an eight-hour Connections Homes on Facebook to stay up to classroom 1. Like date on what they’re doing: www.facebook.com/ training, connectionshomes. application process and a financial partner. Connections Homes is 2. Become we do state funded 100% by individuals and organizations from and national within the community who believe that young adults criminal without connection are worth investing in. Find more records, child information at connectionshomes.org/donate. protective Be an advocate in your church or community services, 3. for young adults without connection by and sexual sharing our video and telling your friends about the predator young adults in our backyard who need our help. Visit check on connectionshomes.org to watch and share. every family.

KELVIN, AGE 20 Dreaming of being a nonprofit E.D. “I was getting ready to be homeless and didn’t really have anywhere else to go. Being connected to the Granada’s (Matt and Maria) is fun, I like them. They are like the family that says, ‘We aren’t going to give it to you, but we will help you.’ It goes back to that thing where you give a man a fish, he eats for a day, you teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime.

They showed me a great way of how to manage money. It blew my mind.

They mean a lot in my life. I’d like to keep them in my life.”

ODILE, AGE 19 Dreaming of being a fashion designer “I came here when I was 13. I was living with my uncle and aunt and it was really bad. When I turned 18, they put me out. I felt like I had no family, nobody to talk to. I just turned 18, I didn’t know what to do. I just kind of hated myself.

Connections means a lot for me. It means love, it means support. It means being able to feel loved by someone, it is something that every kid wishes for.

My mom, Tania Brown (Connections Homes mentoring family: Scott and Tania), is exactly like me, we are like twins, kind of. I am really grateful and thankful that I got connected. I get to talk to them about everything.

They give me advice, help me with my homework. I just feel loved.”

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H O L I DAY ID EAS TO IN SP IRE AT E VE RY PRICE P OINT

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Shop Bella Blue and have your child looking stylish all year round. Bella Blue is a locally owned children’s boutique in Suwanee. They offer clothing, shoes and accessories for girls up to a size 10 and boys up to a size 6.

1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee 678-765-8820 @bellabluechildrens

S&S

Wine is the perfect gift for any occasion and Sip Happens is there to help you pick the perfect bottle! From holiday parties to celebrating the season with family, they have over 300 wines to choose from - or pick up a wine basket or a gift card instead.

Sip Happens makes great wine fun and accessible for everyone.

3890 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd. Suwanee 678-765-6115 I siphappens.wine @ohsiphappens

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Make this holiday a memorable one with handmade gifts. Eye Candy Art Studio is a walk-in friendly pottery & art creation studio that has mugs, platters, ornaments and so much more! They even have the vintage Christmas trees that evoke such great nostalgic memories for so many. See all the fun pieces they have and make lasting gifts for your loved ones.

3127 Main St, Duluth 678-714-5683 I eyecandyartstudio.net

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A gift certificate to Queen of Hearts is sure to bring joy to anyone on your list this year! With over 500 dealermerchants displaying antiques and hand-crafted merchandise for your home, there are always special treasures to be found.

Visit their array of unique inventory at one of their three locations: Buford, Alpharetta and Marietta.

4125 GA-20, Buford, 678-714-0643 queenofheartsantiques-interiors.com

Give the gift of building something beautiful with the help of Hillman Flooring & Design. Whether that special homeowner on your list is looking to renew their flooring, finish their basement, update their bathroom or finally install the kitchen of their dreams, the Hillman team can make it happen. Specializing in full-service remodeling, their superior products, expert installation and exceptional service have been pleasing customers for over 25 years.

201 Peachtree Industrial Blvd, Sugar Hill 770-271-0902 hillmanflooring.com

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gift guide

Located in the heart of Suwanee Town Center, Ensemble Boutique is your source for affordable, high-quality apparel. Offering styles from early teens to adults, you’ll be sure to find something beautiful for everyone on your list!

15% OFF ENTIRE PURCHASE!Â

Full price items only. Cannot be combined with other offers. Does not apply on gift cards.

340 Town Center Ave. A5, Suwanee 678-765-2219 shopensembleboutique.com

Parsons Gifts is your goto store in Suwanee for fun, trendy, and exciting one-stop gift shopping! They stock all your favorites and exclusive brands including Pandora, Brighton, Vera Bradley, Alex and Ani, Bourbon and Bowties, Ronaldo Jewelry, Lokai, Mantraband, Tyler Candle, Peach State Pride, Simply Southern T-Shirts and Lilly Pulitzer.

Gifts & Boutique

1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd.

Suwanee 770-271-7735 parsons-suwanee-ga.com PAGE 81

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Tomahawk encrusted fried lobster

Get a gift certificate from the 2017 & 2018 Best of Gwinnett Steakhouse: Bare Bones Steakhouse. Offering wood-fired steaks and other classic American fare served by a friendly and helpful staff in a historic space with rich hardwood floors and exposed-brick walls.

Don't miss the 40 oz Tomahawk bone-in Ribeye!

115 E Main St, Buford, GA 30518 470-266-1890 barebonessteakhouse.com

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gift guide

Celebrate Christmas in an elegant, classic style. Located near Suwanee Town Center, Atlanta Kilts offers the kilt, tartan, or Celtic accessory to make the perfect gift! Reasons to wear a kilt: golf, weddings, cruises, proms, football games, Celtic events, memorials, holidays, celebrations, just for fun or at work!

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A Atlanta Kilts

1275 Buford Highway, Suite 105 Suwanee 877-411-KILT (5458) atlantakilts.com

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learn news from the suwanee schools universe

Dear San ta, I am so exit ed for Ch istmas. I hope your e lfs can ma ke all our presents in time. I hope you get all your pre sents to th e children. I lo ve Christm as alot.

-Nathania

ease ask l p y t t e and nta, pr a robot e Dear Sa m g f to brin tty please. For your el pre nd t please e s y o ookies a t c e a v a h ta! ou will ou San y sock, y e v o l I olate. hot choc we

hin

From C

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ere at Suwanee Magazine, we love encouraging students of all ages to write about things they are passionate about and nothing brings out more passion in a child than their Christmas wish list for Santa! Our team decided to help our friend up at the North Pole collect some very important letters. From makeup sets to baby sisters to puppies, it seems Olde Saint Nick has his hands full this year!

Thank you for giving me a lot of

presents last year. For Christmas this year I am hoping that I can get an American Girl doll this year. And, I

really want a makeup set because I have a makeup bag but no makeup to go with it.

- Maggie

I want the dog on TV. You can fe ed it and it can poop ou t the food.

I wanna re al dog and I want a lego friends. I w ant a little petsh op.

- Sophia R uth Burges s

ving ng good and ha oi d re a ou y e I hop ase Pole. Can I ple th or N e th t a fun hristmas?

Switch for C o d n te in N a have

, - Sensationally Harvey

Can I please have a

lego roller coaster, p ool, puppy, fish, baby siste r, every logo set in the w orld, rain coat for Elfy th e Elf and a reindeer for th e elf.

Brady

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LEFT NUT BREWING

local food. craft beer. wine trends.

OH SIP! HOLIDAY WINES 62

Rustic

E L E G A N C E AQUA TERRA BISTRO’S RELAXING AMBIANCE AND ELEVATED MENU HAVE ATTRACTED CUSTOMERS FOR OVER 20 YEARS.

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R E S TA U R A N T S P O T L I G H T :

AQUA TERRA BISTRO

Located in the heart of Historic Downtown Buford, Aqua Terra brings a fine dining experience featuring traditional classics inspired by influences from world cuisine. BY LIZZY KIDNEY

hile many restaurants come and go, Aqua Terra Bistro has remained a pillar in the community for more than 20 years. That kind of longevity is hard to come by in the culinary world, which has the kind of high turnover that can discourage many from attempting to open a restaurant. It takes a deep knowledge of the industry and a true love for the business to be successful. Aqua Terra’s owner, Laurie Attaway, has both.

Tired of driving to Atlanta in order to visit a nice restaurant, Attaway longed to bring the fine-dining experience to her community. So in

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September of 1999, she did just that and opened Aqua Terra Bistro in downtown Buford. Her father worked in the industry, so she grew up in the business, building a love for the people and community who inhabit it.

“I love being able to work with a diverse group of people,” Attaway says. “Being around people from all walks of life and with different personalities is a unique experience, and I am honored to have that opportunity to teach them what it is like to run a successful business.”

attracted patrons looking to celebrate special events such as a birthday or anniversary, and the restaurant is home to event spaces that can host

UPSCALE, YET CASUAL

 Inside, Aqua Terra feels upscale, yet casual. “You can be as comfortable in a dress as you are in a pair of jeans,” Attaway says. The relaxing ambiance and elevated menu have long

NOV / DEC 18

corporate parties, baby showers, and rehearsal dinners, among other gettogethers. Aqua Terra’s three event spaces can hold anywhere from a

savor

Aqua Terra’s three event spaces can hold anywhere from a small gathering of 14 to up to 90 people. corporate parties, baby showers, and rehearsal dinners, among other gettogethers. Aqua Terra’s three event spaces can hold anywhere from a small gathering of 14 to up to 90 people.

Attaway says restaurant patrons visit from not only Buford but surrounding areas including Suwanee, Cumming, Alpharetta, Braselton, and even Gainesville. “We’ve got a pretty wide radius of where our customers come from,” she says. “And we have people who have been coming here since day one. We have a pretty loyal following.”

Chefs Zakee Williams and Heather Murray lead Aqua Terra’s culinary team.

Both have extensive backgrounds in the kitchen and work together to add their personal and creative touches to the regular menu items and specials.

“Laurie really encourages us to change up our specials daily,” Williams says. “She gives us a platform to be creative in the kitchen, and every week there are a number of different specials we offer for lunch and dinner.”

SMALL PLATES, BIG FLAVOR

The team is currently rolling out a new menu of small plates at a more affordable price point. Favorites include the Smoked Gouda Grit Fritters with cheesy and delicious gouda grits fried in batter and placed atop a red pepper jam. The Pork Belly Scallops are another popular choice and feature seared scallops topped with sweet tea pork belly, an Asian brown butter sauce, and shaved apple and fennel salad.

“My current favorite item on the small plate menu is our Shrimp and Grits,” Williams says. ”It includes andouille sausage, shallots, celery, red peppers, creamy corn grits, spicy brandy cream, and scallions. It really is simple and delicious.”

The Fried Pickled Green Tomatoes are a delicious twist on a Southern staple with goat cheese and habanero coulis.

For bacon lovers, Murray’s candied bacon is a sweet and salty treat that can be

“THE MENU IS UNIQUE. I THINK YOU CAN COME HERE AND BE ASSURED NO MATTER WHAT’S ON THE MENU, IT’S GOING TO BE HIGH-QUALITY INGREDIENTS, FRESH, AND ALWAYS GOOD.” Fried pickled green tomatoes

CHARITABLE AT ITS HEART. Aqua Terra is heavily involved in the community and remains charitable at its heart.

It has helped to raise money for Eagle Ranch in Flowery Branch, which provides a stable home environment for children in crisis, every year since opening.

Attaway, who has a heart for animals, has also helped raise money for Planned Pethood, an organization dedicated to helping pets through innovative programs and affordable services. Aqua Terra also recently started Charity Wednesdays, in which a local charity is chosen each month and every Wednesday during that month the charity of choice receives 30% of all restaurant proceeds.

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wrapped around dates, added as a side to your meal, or even sprinkled atop dessert.

“We wanted to give our customers the opportunity to try really good new food at a more affordable price,” Attaway says, “Our new small plates are great, but we also kept some of our more popular dishes around, too.”

One long-standing favorite is the French Country Salad, in which field greens are mixed with gorgonzola cheese, bacon, apples, walnuts, and red onions and tossed with a warm apple cider vinaigrette dressing. Other mainstays include the Filet, served over whipped potatoes and topped with a ragout of exotic mushrooms, onions, and tomatoes, and the Seared Scallops, served with orecchiette pasta, baby spinach, and an exotic mushroom truffle cream sauce.

When you visit, be sure to order the warm, crusty bread served with a tasty and tangy dipping sauce made from sun-dried tomatoes, - LAURIE ATTAWAY, onions, balsamic OWNER, AQUA TERRA BISTRO vinegar, and a few other secret ingredients — a dipping sauce so delicious Attaway says they sell it by the quart.

“The menu is unique,” Attaway says. “I think you can come here and be assured no matter what’s on the menu, it’s going to be high-quality ingredients, fresh, and always good.”

In addition to the regular menu items, Aqua Terra Bistro also posts daily specials to their Facebook page.

This attention to detail has helped Aqua Terra Bistro thrive for nearly 20 years. With collaborative chefs, a new menu, and a loyal customer base, there’s no doubt it will be a favorite for many more years to come. For more information about Aqua Terra Bistro, visit aquaterrabistro.com. ■

Pork belly scallops

“WE WANTED TO GIVE OUR CUSTOMERS THE OPPORTUNITY TO TRY REALLY GOOD NEW FOOD AT A MORE AFFORDABLE PRICE.”

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With collaborative chefs, a new menu and a loyal customer base, Aqua Terra remains a mainstay in downtown Buford.

Celebrating 5 Years in Buford!

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savor

, WhaT S BREWING INTERVIEW AND PHOTOS BY LIZZY KIDNEY

LEFT NUT BREWING ince opening in 2013, Gainesville’s Left Nut Brewery has grown into a true hang-out destination, where on any given night you can find people of all ages sitting at long communal tables conversing and playing board games. And that’s exactly the vision owner Nilanjan “Pap” Datta had in mind when he left corporate America to toss his hat into the craft beer scene. His passion for good beer is matched only by his team, which includes brewers Rick Foote and Jason Ford.

Together, they transformed a 1927 Johnson and Johnson Textile Mill into a communityfocused brewery that brews its beers with a lot of love and a little quirk.

LT-RT: Kate Parker, Katelyn Anderson, Pap Datta, Rick Foote, Jason Ford, Mirva Datta, Jacob Sprattling

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SM: What made you choose this location?

INTERVIEW WITH THE TEAM AT LEFT NUT BREWING SUWANEE MAGAZINE: How did you guys come together to open a brewery?

NILANJAN “PAP” DATTA, OWNER:

Back in 2012, opening a brewery was more of just a concept, but in 2013 I decided that I was going to do this and created a name, business plan, and worked to get introduced to other people in the industry. One of these people was Kevin McNerney, a founding brewer of SweetWater Brewing. He engaged us as a friend, advisor, and as a consultant. Kevin and I discussed next steps and he really gave us the knowledge and personnel we needed to be successful.

SM: How did you come up with the name “Left Nut?”

our preferred choice. One of our brewers, Rick Foote, had been the person who brought me to this location and we toured it and we both realized this would take more work than a location we had found in downtown Gainesville. But, as fate would have it, this became our primary plan and we spent almost a year renovating this place. This 1927 Johnson and Johnson textile mill gave us a historical footprint to exercise our passions. When we came here there were no floors and low ceilings, so we basically gutted the place and restored the look of the original ceiling. Our brewers, Rick and Jason, were very involved with the renovation process.

All of the tile work was done by Jason, and the bar and tables were reclaimed and refinished by the two of them. Our families and volunteers were also very helpful.

The brew-loving community came together and in result, we have a nice warm beautiful structure that we are very proud of.

SM: How did you meet/choose your brewers?

PAP DATTA: After

spending 30 years in Corporate America, I was tired of constantly being on airplanes and in cubicles. The bottom line was that the job I was doing was lacking soul. I had a passion for craft brewing and good beer, so I made an effort to learn all about the brewing process as I was traveling. I knew this was ultimately what I wanted to do, so I left a successful business career to open Left Nut, and its name is a reflection of that willingness to give up something of extreme value.

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PHOTO COURTESY LEFT NUT BREWING

PAP DATTA: This was actually not

PAP DATTA: Kevin from

Left Nut is a communityfocused brewery that brews its beers with a lot of love and a little quirk.

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SweetWater introduced me to Rick Foote, and at the time he had been home brewing since the ’80s. Kevin told me that I had to meet him and that the guy hadn’t made anything he disliked. We went and met with him, and what was supposed to only be a half-hour meeting turned into a three-hour hangout. We loved Rick and brought him onto the team, but we also came to the conclusion that we needed someone who had a background in commerciallevel brewing, so Kevin also introduced me to Jason Ford. The two had worked at SweetWater together and Jason was also a brewer with Monday Night. He has over 13 years of commercial brewing experience and was the perfect addition to our team.

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IT IS A VERY COMMUNITY-ORIENTED PLACE WITH COMMUNAL TABLES THAT ALLOW PEOPLE TO COME AND HANG OUT TOGETHER. - “Pap” Datta, Owner, Left Nut Brewing

SM: What excites you guys most about brewing?

RICK FOOTE, BREWER: I love seeing

the pleasure on people’s faces when they are enjoying our handiwork.

KATE PARKER, ACCOUNT MANAGER: The sense of community and collaboration.

PAP DATTA: Our customers feel like

they have a sense of ownership over this brewery.

What makes Left Nut unique?

PAP DATTA: I think our beers are

what makes us unique because we are very dedicated to offering you a great style with our own little quirks.

Our brewers have a tendency to create very smooth beers that also have very high alcohol content.

It is a very community-oriented place with communal tables that allow people to come and hang out

together. You get a lot of diversity with the lake being so close as well as colleges in the area. For example, on any night you can come in and see the elderly playing Cards Against Humanity with the college students. We also have all of our cans and packaging designed by a local Gainesville artist named Hal Delong. All of the artwork is original and local, and that helps to grow that sense of community.

SM: Tell us a little more about your ’Til No Child is Hungry Campaign?

PAP DATTA: When we arrived,

the community really embraced us, and we wanted to have a meaningful contribution back to the community. One of our biggest pet peeves is that we think there should not be hungry kids in this country, so we partnered with

the Georgia Mountain Food Bank to help fight childhood hunger.

Because of this, any cans or bottled beers purchased here at the brewery or wholesale get a portion of the proceeds donated to the Georgia Mountain Food Bank.

It’s not so much about the amount of money we raise, but instead, it’s about the impact that we have made. I would love to be able to show people, “Here are the faces this has helped, and how much money you raise is just a number.”

READ THE REST OF THE INTERVIEW @

SuwaneeMagazine.com

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APPETIZER WINES ■ If you plan to serve appetizers, keep it light — there’s a lot more food on the way! Serving a Smoked Salmon Canape or Shrimp Ceviche? Try Domaine de Noes Sèvre-et-Maine, a Muscadet or Seghesio Family Vineyards' Vermentino. A Baked Brie Stuffed Pastry would match perfectly with Chateau de Peyrassol #Lou, a lovely Dry Rosé or Chateau de Corcelles Les Copains d’Abord, a fresh, ripe Gamay.

Oh Sip!

WINES THAT GO WITH TURKEY ■ When turkey is the star of the show, you’ll never go wrong with another glass of the dry Rosé. If you’re looking for an interesting, lighter red, keep pouring that Gamay. Its subtle, earthy notes pair fantastically with turkey.

Which wines go with my holiday meal?

BY:

t’s finally that time of year.

Whether you have impatiently waited for the season of celebration or this year has flown by and the holiday season is swiftly upon you, Thanksgiving is just around the corner — and that means Christmas isn’t far behind.

Are you serving ham, turkey or both?

How about shaking it up with pork tenderloin or perhaps a nice prime rib for Christmas?

Deciding on the protein and the sides is difficult enough; now how in the world do you choose wines for these epic holiday meals?

Sip Happens can help take the mystery out of which wines work best with your dinner.

Thanksgiving can be a double-edged sword. Between the meat of choice and the array of sides served, this meal can cause a plethora of conflicting flavors. The good news is that you can choose a variety of wines to enjoy with this mash-up of cuisine.

No matter what foods grace your table for your festive feast, the choices are limitless when it comes to wine pairings. Be sure to set both a white and red wine glass at each place.

Have fun and experiment — find a new favorite wine to go with your favorite holiday dish!

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WINES THAT BALANCE SIDE DISHES

Laurie Collins

CEO & CO-FOUNDER OF SIP HAPPENS

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TO START...

■ Sparkling wine and champagne cocktails are a great way to welcome your guests. Begin the celebration with Paul Roger Réserve Brut, a lovely French Champagne.

A less expensive option and one that works well in champagne cocktails is Villa Sandi II Fresco Prosecco Prosecco, an Italian sparkling wine.

Another budget friendly alternative is Isaac Fernandez Biutiful Cava Brut Nature, a sparkling wine from Spain.

■ While turkey may be the headliner, there are many other flavors to take into account with the supporting cast. From rich sauces to herb-filled stuffing and roasted veggies, you’ll want to pair wines that balance with the side dishes. Reichsrat Von Buhl Armand, a dry Riesling because of its acidity and slight sweetness, works with turkey and mashed potatoes with gravy. It also pairs well with cranberry sauce. St. Supéry Blanc Dollarhide, a Sauvignon Blanc, is a top pick for turkey and savory sides.

PAIRING WITH HAM ■ If ham is your protein of choice, you’ll want to pair wines that can stand up to the sweet and salty richness of this holiday staple. Philippe Brisebarre Sec, a classic Loire Valley Vouvra, or Reichsrat Von Buhl Armand, a German Riesling, will bring food-friendly acidity to the table. When choosing a red, stay on the lighter side. You’ll never go wrong with Chàteau Moulin-à-Vent Couvent des Thorins, a Beaujolais, or Illahe Vineyards Pinot Noir. If you’re feeling adventurous, try Denny Bini dell’Emilia, a Lambrusco that is slightly sparkling and a great balance with pork. Depending on preparation, a pork tenderloin would pair nicely with Trimbach, a Gewürztraminer or a velvety soft Seven Hills Winery Merlot.

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WINES TO SERVE WITH PRIME RIB

■ If your holiday meal is centered around a prime rib, Les Cadrans de Lassègue Bordeaux is a classic choice. Unity, a full-bodied Cabernet, or the robust Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot make beautiful companions to this richer protein.

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Bottom line – don’t be intimidated by pairing the perfect wine with these traditional holiday meals. Experiment with these wines and discover what you enjoy most. At Sip Happens, we’ve made boutique wine simplified. Stop by and let us help you pick out the perfect bottle for any occasion. With more than 300 wines to choose from, we make great wine fun and accessible to everyone. ◆

SIP HAPPENS IS LOCATED AT SUWANEE TOWN CENTER

For more info, visit siphappens.wine.

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Atlanta Flooring Design Centers Celebrates Expansion with Ribbon Cutting ■ Atlanta Flooring Design Centers’ corporate headquarters in Suwanee celebrated the grand opening of its newly expanded and renovated Builder Support Center at their Swiftwater Park Campus with a ribbon cutting ceremony on September 27. The 65,000-square-foot office and warehouse expansion supports

THE LATEST FROM IN AND AROUND SUWANEE

their commitment to continued investment and growth in the home building industry.

Suwanee Resident Competes in Bass Fishing National Championship This November, 66 anglers — 50 from the U.S. and 16 from other countries — will compete to be crowned a national champion during the three-day tournament.

Morton will compete for one of the top three spots for the opportunity to move on to the Bassmaster Classic, the premier event in professional bass fishing.

Similar to how the U.S. Open provides a path for amateur golfers in the National Championship, professional bass fishing does the same.

“From the time I first watched bass fishing on TV as a little boy, I always dreamed of fishing in the Bassmaster Classic,” Morton says. ”This year is especially important because it is the 50th anniversary of the BASS.” The National Championship will be held on November 8-10 in Florence, Tennessee.

■ Bass fishing has been a huge part of Suwanee resident David Morton’s life since childhood. The countless days spent fishing with his dad as a young boy turned into a passion that has led him to compete in this year’s BASS Nation National Championship.

Morton has been competing in bass tournaments for more than 15 years and joined his first club team six years ago. Since then, he has won the BASS Nation State Championship three times, is the reigning 2018 State Champion, and has been a Georgia State team member for five years. He even inspired his son to join the Bass Fishing Club at North Gwinnett High School.

“I qualified for the BASS Nation National Championship through my fishing club,” Morton says. ”Each club sends six anglers to the state championship, then from there we went on to Regionals where the top anglers get the opportunity to compete at the National Championship.”

- David Morton

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Greater Atlanta Christian School Celebrates Founder with Jesse C. Long Interchange Naming ■ Gwinnett County visionary and founder of Greater Atlanta Christian School, Jesse Long (1932-2014), was honored on September 18 with the official naming of I-85 at Indian Trail Road, Exit 101, as the Jesse Long Interchange. With a vision and love for Gwinnett County, Long broke ground on what would become the Greater Atlanta Christian School in the rural part of southern Gwinnett in the early ’60s.

“Jesse saw something that the rest of us couldn’t see. Back then there was nothing here but two farms and an old clay road,” says Bill Long, Jesse’s Jesse had a brother. “But Jesse had vision. He a vision. He saw a future saw a future and activity, and most importantly, children who and activity, could receive a Christian and most education. He believed in importantly, Gwinnett County, and this children who sign will represent Jesse could receive and everything he stood for. Today, over 5,000 a Christian graduates from GAC have education. followed out his vision and He believed are serving in some way.”

In 2018, Greater Atlanta in Gwinnett County, and Christian celebrates its this sign will 50th year just a halfmile from the Jesse represent Jesse Long Interchange and and everything is a thriving educational he stood for. community with 34 stateof-the-art buildings that are home to 1,600 Pre-K through 12th grade students.

The GAC of today is both in heart the same and quite different. The school has redesigned its historic buildings with beautiful and learning-focused environments. Among those advancements are awardwinning redesigned Middle School and High School centers, and new facilities such as the Art and Design Center, Environmental Center, STEM Buildings, Performing Arts Center, and a number of beautiful indoor and outdoor athletic facilities for the successful Spartan teams.

“We’re thankful for our history, resources, and the way allies across Atlanta have supported us for decades,” says new GAC president Dr. Scott Harsh.

“Yet research makes it clear that great teachers make all the difference, and we know it’s the caliber, heart, and longevity of our faculty that make GAC the amazing school it is today.”

Alkaline Wellness Celebrates Grand Opening ■ Alkaline Wellness hosts its grand opening on November 1 and will offer a one-time grand opening special pricing for the month of November.

Alkaline Wellness is truly a comprehensive health center specializing in Hot Yoga, Pilates, Barre, Aerial, Kids Yoga, PrenatalPost Partum Yoga/Pilates, Physical Therapy, Nutrition Therapy, and Functional Medicine. Founded by Dr. Connie Jeon with a vision to provide an Alkaline Lifestyle Center to redefine healthcare, they will help you to shift Alkaline for optimal health and longevity.

Alkaline Wellness encourages the community to be proactive in creating their health. Its mission is to create an Alkaline Community who refuse to conform but transform their health one day at a time.

Alkaline Wellness is located in Suwanee at the former Rainbow Pilates location at 686 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard. Visit them online at alkalinewellness.com.

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Lawrenceville Author Writes Book to Help Parents of Newly Diagnosed Type 1 Children ■ Did you know that November is National Diabetes Month?

Every year an estimated 50,000 people in Georgia are diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.

Lawrencevillebased author Jessica Freeman is all too familiar with this reality. Freeman was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes when she was only 3 years old.

After living with Type 1 for 25 years, Freeman was inspired to write The Type 1 Life to help parents of newly diagnosed Type 1 children navigate things like school sports, sleepovers, going to college, and other typical activities that can be more complicated following the diagnosis.

Visit Freeman’s website for more information about her book at thetype1life.com.

Jessica Freeman

Women-Only Rideshare Service Launches in Atlanta ■ Boston-based Safr, a female-friendly alternative to Uber and Lyft, is set to launch in Atlanta this January. Built with the needs of women in mind, the new ride-sharing service focuses on the safety and empowerment of women and aims to improve the lives of women through not only safe transportation, but also job creation and financial security.

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Light Up Gwinnett With Kindness Illuminates Community Connection

Planet Smoothie brings a Winter Wonderland to Suwanee Town Center ■ Migo and Meechee, from the film Smallfoot, recently brought a winter wonderland to Planet Smoothie Suwanee. Smallfoot is the story of a bright young yeti who finds something he thought didn't exist — a human. News of this "smallfoot" throws the yeti community into an uproar over what else might be beyond their snowy village. The film helps highlight friendship, courage and the joy of discovery.

In partnership with Warner Brothers Studio, the popular smoothie location brought the animated film to life in Town Center Park. Complete with real snow, prize giveaways, and a meet and greet with the characters, Planet Smoothie debuted their Yeti Confetti Blast Smoothie. Inspired by the film, the smoothie is made with strawberries, apple, bananas, pineapple, frozen yogurt, orange sherbet and yeti confetti.

In order to provide a safe travel option to its customers, Safr drivers are personally vetted and undergo comprehensive background checks to ensure peace of mind for riders. There are also in-ride security features in place to help riders arrive at their destination safely. These features include allowing both riders and drivers to pre-select the gender of the passenger or driver; ride tracking via a command center to make sure trips don’t deviate significantly from their route; and an SOS button that can be used if a passenger or driver feels uncomfortable that will notify the user’s “in case of emergency” contact list.

For more information on Safr, visit gosafr.com.

■ This December, Light Up Gwinnett With Kindness hopes to instill a new tradition that strengthens local communities through a visual representation of kindness. The initiative encourages local individuals, families, organizations and businesses to be more intentional when performing acts of kindness during the time period of Dec. 1-24.

“I was inspired by the YouTube song ‘Wishes and Candles’ that shows how our lives are interwoven with each other and how one person’s act of kindness created a natural pay it forward that eventually came full circle back to the originator,” says Suwanee resident and Light Up organizer Cindi I was inspired by Pickett. “It triggered the idea the YouTube song ‘Wishes and Candles’ of creating a formal community that shows how our Light Up With Kindness initiative lives are interwoven which I hope becomes an annual with each other and tradition.”

The community participation how one person’s act of kindness portion of Light Up Gwinnett created a natural With Kindness is inspired by pay it forward that Pickett’s childhood tradition of eventually came driving through neighborhoods on full circle back to the Christmas Eve to see decorations originator. and streets lined with lit-up white - Cindi Pickett bags lining the path for Santa. At 5 p.m. on Dec. 24, participants are asked to create a luminary showcase with white lunchsize bags lit up with two small electric candles and filled with sand, placed two feet apart across the front of their driveways, lawns and businesses near the street. Suwaneearea participants are also encouraged to post about their participation on their social media feeds, as well as on the Facebook page LightUpSuwaneeWithKindness. Residents are then encouraged to go out in the community to see the lighted path of human kindness.

“I am excited to once again see neighborhoods lined with glowing white bags knowing that this time, it will be a lit pathway created by kindness,” says Pickett. “My ultimate hope is to one day see the Light Up With Kindness luminaries extend well beyond Suwanee and Gwinnett County, connecting city-to-city throughout our entire state.”

For more info, visit LightUpGeorgiaWithKindness.com.

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North Gwinnett High School Cross Country Team Raises Money and Supplies for Discovery High School Athletes recognized this growing issue ■ Going into its fourth year as on both the boy’s and girl’s cross a Title 1 school in Lawrenceville, country teams and wanted to do Discovery High School serves something to help. more than 2,600 students. The “I grew up very fortunate to majority of those students, be able to have however, everything I come from needed to be households The generosity a successful with limited that NGHS offered runner,” Ursprung income and us was one of the says. “My often face greatest blessings athletes do adversities I could find. not have every that many opportunity that other high Their program I had at their school generously donated age, so I set out students gently used running to look for any don’t have to shoes, racing opportunity to deal with. provide for them.”

Many spikes, and a check Ursprung, a of these that allowed me to former North students provide uniforms Gwinnett cross struggle to and racing spikes to country runner, afford the every kid on and Moore, a dues and former North equipment both the boy’s and Gwinnett track needed to girl’s teams.” coach, decided participate in - Jessica Ursprung, Discovery’s Head to reach out to high school Cross Country Coach North Gwinnett athletics. about a possible Discovery’s fundraiser. Without hesitation, Head Cross Country Coach, Coach John Rowland, Athletic Jessica Ursprung, and Assistant Director Coach Grady York, and Principal, Traye Moore,

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PHOTO BY JESSICA URSPRUNG

3-Year-Old Suwanee Resident Makes Big-Screen Debut in "First Man"

the rest of the North Gwinnett team got to work raising money and taking uniform donations.

“The generosity that NGHS offered us was one of the greatest blessings I could find,” Ursprung says. “Their program generously donated gently used running shoes, racing spikes, and a check that allowed me to provide uniforms and racing spikes to every kid on both the boy’s and girl’s teams.”

The Discovery cross country team was truly grateful for North Gwinnett’s generous donations and wanted to present the athletes and coaches with a handmade poster, as well as baked goods they made together as a team.

“The athletes took their own time to meet up and do this without my knowledge,” Ursprung says.

“This really showed tremendous accountability and maturity.”

Thanks to the guidance of Ursprung and the donations from North Gwinnett High School, the Discovery High School cross country program has seen a tremendous increase in the number of athletes who are able to participate in this season. The team has also improved from previous years with a drop in race times and a new girl’s school record — with a new boy’s record not far behind.

■ One small step for man, one giant leap for 3-year-old Lucy Stafford. On October 12, Lucy made her big-screen debut playing Karen Armstrong, daughter of Neil Armstrong, in First Man. The film details the life of Neil Armstrong, played by Ryan Gosling, and his journey to become the first man to walk on the moon.

would come of it, I submitted a photograph of Lucy. A week or so later I received a phone call saying they were interested in her! I then submitted a video of her acting candid around the house, and before I knew it Lucy was filming in Tyler Perry’s studios.

WHAT WAS IT LIKE WORKING WITH THE CAST?

Damien Chazelle (the director), Ryan Gosling, and Claire Foy were all so great. They wanted Lucy to be comfortable and made sure she was always taken care of.

When we first met Ryan, he went straight to Lucy and wanted to get down on her level and really made sure she was comfortable with him.

Claire was so motherly and even took the time to check on Lucy when she came to set with a runny nose.

SINCE LUCY IS SO YOUNG, HOW WAS THE OVERALL EXPERIENCE?

The word I kept using was surreal. Every morning we would go to Lucy Stafford wardrobe and then they would let me drive my van to the back lot so What began as a response to a Lucy had a place to take a break Facebook ad by Suwanee native if she needed it. They allowed Lauren Stafford, turned into a her to rehearse and bond with movie role for her daughter Lucy.

Ryan and Claire for about a week We had the chance to talk with before we actually began filming.

Lauren and find out what it was Everyone made sure it was a like for Lucy to act alongside major movie stars such as Gosling great experience, and that Lucy remained comfortable. and Claire Foy.

HOW DID LUCY LAND THIS ROLE?

There was an ad on Facebook asking for a little girl to audition, and without thinking anything

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citybuzz

ON THE SCENE

Annandale Extra Mile 5K/ Fun Run Saturday, Sept. 8th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY: ANGELA VEUGELER

VIEW MORE PEOPLE & PLACES PICS @

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Cooper's Crew Golf Tournament Tuesday, Sept. 25th THE RIVER CLUB

PHOTOS BY: ANGELA VEUGELER

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HappyFeat Carnival

Saturday, Sept. 29th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY: KARL LAMB

Alive! Fest 2018

Saturday, Oct. 20th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY: JULIE PERDUE

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Suwanee Fest

Saturday, Sept. 15th, Sunday, Sept. 16th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY: KARL LAMB

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people & places

Suwanee Business Alliance October Meeting Wednesday, Oct. 10th KENNEY AND MEDINA PC

PHOTOS BY: JULIE PERDUE

VIEW MORE PEOPLE & PLACES PICS @

facebook.com/ suwaneemagazine.com

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Suwanee Jazz Fest

Saturday, Oct 13th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY: JULIE PERDUE

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A R E A

E V E N T

HAPPENINGS THIS NOVEMBER & DECEMBER

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DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS

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EVERY GOOD AND PERFECT GIFT BALLET __________________ ___

November 8th at 6pm | November 9th at 3pm ____________________

November

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Greater Atlanta Christian School, Performing Arts Center

SUGAR HILL ICE RINK OPENS

____________________

More info: events@ greateratlantachristian.org $5 tickets available on Eventbrite.com or greateratlantachristian.org.

________________ ___ 4:00pm-10:00pm __________________

City of Sugar Hill

__________________

For more information visit haidrink.com.

KIWANIS ALL AMERICAN 5K ______________

6TH ANNUAL SUWANEE______________ WINE FEST _________________ ________

8:00am _______________

Town Center Park __________________

1:00pm-4:30pm ______________________________________

Town Center Park _________________________________

All proceeds go to assist Gwinnett County Police Corporal Michael Duncan, who was paralyzed from the waist down as a result of a police helicopter crash in 2017.

Enjoy unlimited samples of over 150 wines, plus craft beer, college football, great food and music. Tickets available @ suwaneewinefest.com.

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9:00am _________________

Town Center Park __________________ Second Saturday of the month through April 2019

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SUWANEE CLASSIC CAR SHOW _________________

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CHRISTMAS CANTEEN 2018

______________________ ___ 8:00pm ________________________

Aurora Theatre

________________________

Gwinnett’s longest-running theatrical holiday tradition, Christmas Canteen 2018 returns for a 23rd smash year!

This stunning musical revue makes the most wonderful time of the year even more wonderful. Brimming with songs, comic sketches, trips down memory lane and a sprinkle of Christmas magic, it’s the holiday show with something for everyone Tickets available for purchase at auroratheatre.com.

10:00am _________________

Town Center Park __________________ For more information visit ngaa4arts.com.

10 13 16 Feb. 24

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SUWANEE WINTER FARMERS MARKET OPENS _________________

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CHRISTMAS AT GAC: A__________________ CHILD IS BORN ___

7:00pm ____________________

Greater Atlanta Christian School, Performing Arts Center ____________________ More info: events@ greateratlantachristian.org Free tickets available on Eventbrite.com or greateratlantachristian.org.

Thru

LICENSE TO CHILL SNOW ISLAND AND MAGICAL NIGHTS OF LIGHTS _______________________ Lake Lanier Islands ________________________ Entrance to Magical Nights of Lights begins at $43 per vehicle. Tickets to License to Chill begin at $24.99.

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PEACH STATE CHILI COOKOFF

______________________ 12:00pm ______________________

Town Center Park _______________________ For more information visit peachstatechili.com.

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GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS THANKSGIVING BREAK

30 22 23 JOLLY HOLLY DAY

THANKSGIVING DAY

______________________ ___ 6:30pm ________________________

Town Center Park ________________________

BLACK FRIDAY

Ring in the holiday season at this family-friendly event with performances by local schools, the lighting of the tree, free crafts, s'mores, hot chocolate, and a photo with Santa!

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NUTCRACKER TEA

December

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___________________ Sat., 11:30am; Sun., 3:00pm ___________________

Mainstreet Playhouse at Suwanee Academy of the Arts _______ ____________ Tickets available at suwaneeperforms.com.

HAPPY FEAT’S JINGLE IN THE PARK _________________ _______

8:00am _______________________

Town Center Park _______________________ A family-friendly holiday event featuring a 5K, Mistletoe Marketplace, and kids area.

More information at jingleinthepark.com.

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THE BEST OF THE NUTCRACKER ________________________ ___

11:00am, 3:00pm, 6:00pm __________________________

Sugar Hill’s Eagle Theatre __________________________ Tickets available for purchase at suwaneeperforms.com.

21 31 Thru

GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS WINTER BREAK

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TAC-KY CHRISTMAS SWEATER EXTRAVAGANZA

__________________________ ___ 7:00pm ____________________________

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Mainstreet Playhouse at Suwanee Academy of the Arts ____________________________

The Actor’s Company presents an improv show highlighting the fun side of Christmas.

Tickets available at suwaneeperforms.com.

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NEW YEAR'S EVE

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