November/December 2021 by Suwanee Magazine

Kelly Kim T H E K E L LY K I M T E A M

c. 678.464.4929 | KellyKim@ansleyre.com N O W O P E N I N S U WA N E E TO W N C E N T E R

Ansley Real Estate

400 Buford Hwy - STE 1106 Suwanee, GA 30024 Next door to Bottles & Bones

FROM ROUTINE CARE TO COMPLEX PROCEDURES OUR EXPERT TEAM IS HERE FOR YOUR HEART

At Northside Hospital Heart Institute, you’re at the heart of everything we do. Our team of 75 board-certiﬁed physicians are focused on providing you exceptional care above all else. With the support of the Northside network, including the latest technology and the leading facilities, our experts are ready to treat any cardiac condition. From preventative care and blood pressure management all the way to advanced surgeries—we provide Excellence at Heart. Find a provider near you with over 50 locations across Metro Atlanta. Scan the QR code to learn more.

EXCELLENCE AT HEART

11 Business Spotlight: Vineyard Johns Creek NOV / DEC 21

20 Holiday Gift Guide Our annual Holiday Gift Guide features gift ideas and exclusive deals from local businesses to help make your holiday shopping easier.

Scheduled to open in spring 2022, Vineyard Johns Creek is one of the area's newest assisted living and memory care facility that helps seniors maintain independence while also receiving the care they need to thrive.

14 Business Spotlight: Good Landing Recovery Good Landing Recovery uses Christ-centered and biblically based treatments to break the chains of addiction, restore hope, and help clients experience lasting transformation.

29 Home for the Holidays

We've highlighted a number of ways to celebrate the holidays right here in our community with a few of our favorite local events.

44 Art About Town

More and more murals are popping up around town, making Suwanee and its surrounding cities more vibrant with every brushstroke.

56 Holiday Spirits

52 4

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

Bare Bones Steakhouse’s Beverage Director Barbie Payne serves up tasty handcrafted cocktails inspired by the holidays and shares a special recipe to recreate at home.

Restaurant Spotlight:

Frankie’s

The Steakhouse Duluth steakhouse combines the luxe atmosphere of a classic steakhouse with a lively and welcoming neighborhood feel.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

58 What's Brewing at StillFire Brewing The story behind StillFire Brewing’s award-winning Kilt Chamberlain Scotch Ale.

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre’s 40th Anniversary: The Nutcracker

PHOTO BY RICHARD CALMES

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre is celebrating its 40th year of performing The Nutcracker with vibrant characters and childhood wonder.

IN EVERY ISSUE: 6 Editor’s Letter

62 Party Hacks with Nat

9 Currently Loving

66 The Buzz

19 Investment Strategies

80 Sugar Hill City Buzz

40 Heal Yourself 360

82 People & Places

42 Family Matters

88 Event Calendar

letter a note from our managing editor

Celebrating the Season in Suwanee the most wonderful time of the year! This year, our Holiday Issue focuses on how to celebrate the holidays right here at home. After all of the stress of the past year, being home for the holidays really does sound magical, doesn’t it? Just think, the best memories are those made right here at home when we slow down and spend quality time with the people we love. Lucky for us there are a number of festive ways to get into the Christmas spirit in Suwanee and our surrounding areas. From beloved annual events like Aurora Theatre’s Christmas Canteen and ice skating at Sugar Hill’s ice rink to building a gingerbread house with the family for Suwanee Academy of the Arts’ annual Gingerbread Contest, we’ve covered a number of ways to get into the spirit on p. 29. Speaking of the holiday spirit, Bare Bones Steakhouse Bar Manager Barbie Payne will be serving up a festive lineup of cocktails at the beloved Buford restaurant this season. Turn to p. 56 to learn more about these drinks and plan ahead before your next visit. Barbie even shares a drink recipe to make at home to impress all your holiday guests! If you’re planning a date night or other special holiday outing, be sure to visit Duluth’s Frankie’s The Steakhouse. The high-end steakhouse harkens back to another era when tailored suits and nightcaps were part of daily life. Located on the third floor of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, Frankie’s serves classic T’S FINALLY

Duluth’s Frankie’s The

steakhouse fare with an Italian twist. Turn to p. 52 to Steakhouse, p. 52, serves classic steakhouse fare learn more about the luxe dining experience they’re with an Italian twist. bringing to the suburbs. If you’re having trouble deciding what to get for those special people on your Christmas list then flip over to p. 46 for our Holiday Shopping Guide. This year’s guide is filled with gift ideas and exclusive deals from local businesses to help make your holiday shopping easier. From fashion and accessories and health and wellness items to gift cards to local restaurants, you’re sure to find something for everyone. As we head into a time that emphasizes being together with loved ones, it’s important to remember all the members of our family. If you have a loved one who has reached an age where they need some assistance with daily activities but would still like to maintain a level of independence, an assisted living residence might be the best choice. Vineyard Johns Creek is the area's newest assisted living and memory care facility that helps seniors maintain independence while also receiving the care they need. Turn to p. 11 to learn more about Vineyard, which is expected to open in spring 2022. As we do every year, we wish you and yours a very happy holiday season! We hope our Holiday Issue helps get you in the spirit and maybe even sparks a new idea for your family’s celebration. With so many organizations, businesses, events and people working hard to make our city such an incredible place to live, especially during this time of year, we know we’ll all be happy to spend some time at home for the holidays.

ALICIA CARTER, MANAGING EDITOR

COVER: EVER MILLER AND LILLY CARTER PHOTOGRAPHED BY KARL LAMB ON OCTOBER 18.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Alicia@suwanee magazine.com

GWINNETT DAILY POST READER’S CHOICE

GWINNETT’S BEST WEBSITE DESIGN FIRM

Call or email us for a FREE, no-stringsattached website assessment.

A mobile-responsive website is a must in today’s economy. Veugeler Design Group builds award-winning, lead-generating websites, landing pages, micro-sites, web banners and more, all optimized to turn online visitors into customers and maximize brand equity.

Veugeler Design Group 678-482-2270 / info@vdgatl.com / VDGatl.com WEBSITE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT

BRANDING

GRAPHIC DESIGN

DIGITAL MARKETING

CONTENT DEVELOPMENT

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

Creative Director RANDALL VEUGELER Art Director ERICA ABRAMS Writers JAYA LORD • NATALIE GARRETT Production Manager APRIL MILLER Web Editors CLARKE GLIDEWELL • KYLE WILSON Graphic Designers MADISON NORTH LAURA HOLCOMBE

Photographers KARL LAMB • JULIE PERDUE GARY DOWD

JULIE PERDUE Executive Sales and Business Development julie@suwaneemagazine.com

Published by VEUGELER DESIGN GROUP 554 W. Main Street, Suite 200 Buford, GA 30518 SuwaneeMagazine.com

For SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRIES or BACK ISSUE ORDERS, call 678-482-2270. For ADVERTISING INQUIRES, call 678-482-2270, or email info@suwaneemagazine.com.

Suwanee Magazine is published bi-monthly by Veugeler Design Group. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2021 Veugeler Design Group. The editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email submissions to Alicia Carter at Alicia@suwaneemagazine.com.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Snapshots of the food, shops, events and more we’re loving around town.

BEST COOL WEATHER TREAT BEST FALL EVENT

SUWANEE WINE FEST AFTER TAKING a hiatus in 2020, Suwanee Wine Fest returns to Town Center Park on November 6 serving up unlimited samples of more than 150 wines from around the world. While the wines may take center stage, I also love the whole festival environment. From the live music and food trucks to the festival games and vendors, it’s a ton of fun! Plus, they’ll have a Tailgate Tent set up with craft beer and college football for the non-winos attending. Saturday, Nov. 6, 1-4:30 p.m. Suwanee Town Center Park. Purchase tickets at SuwaneeWineFest.com.

Peachy Clean of Atlanta With all of the holiday BEST hullabaloo it can be CLEANING hard to find the time to SERVICE dedicate to cleaning our homes ahead of all the family gatherings that take place this time of year. That’s why sometimes it’s best to leave it to the professionals. Peachy Clean of Atlanta will give you peace of mind ensuring your home is clean, sparkling and germ free! Plus, they’re offering Suwanee Magazine readers 20% off their first-time home cleaning. Win-win! Contact Michelle Williams at 770-256-8059 or visit ThePeachyCleanofAtlanta.com. — Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

— Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

Rushing Trading Co. Roasted Tomato Soup and chili season upon us, I’ve recently become obsessed with Rushing Trading Co.’s roasted tomato soup. It's creamy and seasoned to perfection with just the right amount of diced tomatoes mixed in to pick up on that sense of freshness in every bite. The soup is hearty enough in itself, but I couldn’t pass up on pairing it with their St. Michelle sandwich (prosciutto, salami, ham, smoked gouda, and cranberry aioli on a toasted baguette). Good thing the soup mug has a handle, because you’ll want to slurp up every bit of it! Rushing Trading Co. is located at WITH SOUP

5029 W. Broad St. N.E. in Sugar Hill. RushingTradingCo.com — Natalie Garrett, Contributing Writer

Annual Nutcracker Tea at Suwanee Academy of the Arts

BEST HOLIDAY EVENT FOR THE KIDS

I TELL all my friends with young children about Suwanee Academy of the Arts’ annual Nutcracker Tea! The little ones will enjoy a tea party while the enchanting tale of The Nutcracker is brought to life through magical storytelling by SAA’s own Ms. Bernie alongside delightful dancing by the Suwanee Ballet. Perfect for ages 3-6! Bonus: Anyone who attends the Nutcracker Tea will receive a discount off tickets for Suwanee Ballet’s Nutcracker performance. Dec. 4-5, 3 p.m. Main Street Playhouse at Suwanee Academy of the Arts, 341 Main Street, Suwanee. SuwaneeAcademy.com — Alicia Carter, Managing Editor

business community news and info.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T

VINEYARD JOHNS CREEK Scheduled to open in spring 2022, Vineyard Johns Creek is one of the area's newest assisted living and memory care facilities that helps seniors maintain independence while also receiving the care they need to thrive. By Alicia Carter / Photos by Karl Lamb a loved one after retirement can sometimes be difficult to navigate. Helping them to maintain independence while also providing assistance with activities of daily living, such as eating, bathing, dressing, and grooming, is an important balancing act to ensure they remain happy and healthy for years to come. After all, according to recent studies, about 7 in 10 Americans over the age of 65 will need some form of long-term care. If your loved one needs help with daily activities, but still wants to maintain as much independence as possible, assisted living may be the answer. One of the area's newest assisted living residences, Vineyard Johns Creek, is scheduled to open in spring 2022. The new property will feature large personalized living spaces designed for today's modern seniors, along with access to amenities such as a spa, wellness area, courtyard, all day dining, a movie theatre, library and more. “A lot of people think that they’ll lose independence when they move into an assisted living community, (L-R) Annette Fields, Executive Director; but most times they actually become more Kirsten Pass, Business Office Director; Christine Cavanaugh, Sales Director independent,” says Annette Fields, Vineyard Johns Creek’s Executive Director. “Assisted living facilities really help the residents keep their independence longer because we only want to assist them with those things they no longer can do safely themselves. We want them to continue to do those things they can by themselves. It’s more about safety and oversight.” ARING FOR

ASSISTED LIVING WITHOUT SACRIFICING INDEPENDENCE Of Vineyard Johns Creek's 112 apartments, 77 will be dedicated to assisted living residents. Assisted living is a great option for those who may need extra assistance with daily chores and want a break from the maintenance of owning a home, but still value their independence. This type of living arrangement allows for residents to explore new passions and hobbies while

also enjoying resort-style amenities and living spaces. The assisted living apartments come in a variety of spacious floor plans to choose from, each of which are thoughtfully designed for safety and style. There is dedicated on-site staff available 24/7 to assist with residents’ needs. “We’ll have a nurse on staff — RN and LPN — although, they can not provide nursing services or medical services because we are not a medical community,” Fields says. “It’s more like supervision and oversight to catch things you might miss if they were at home alone. If we’re able to catch something ahead of time it could prevent them from declining as fast as if they were at home without any supervision. The nurses also help coordinate medications and doctor appointments. We will also have in-house rehab. They will be great at noticing things like if a resident walks with a funny gait — they can help with that. The inhouse rehab team will meet with each resident when they move in to make sure they can take the safest route to their room and back, as well as the safest route to the dining room and other communal spaces. They also help to make sure their room is set up to be the most efficient and safe.”

MEMORY CARE

In addition to assisted living, Vineyard Johns Creek will also offer memory care residences. While assisted living and memory care living communities may provide many of the same services — including housing, meals, and help with activities of daily living — memory care goes a step beyond and specializes in caring for seniors with memory loss, Alzheimer’s, and other forms of dementia. “Memory care is required to have more staff and for each staff member to have more training,

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

specifically for dementia,” Fields says. “We actually have all of our care staff trained that way — just to be able to recognize dementia and to help engage the residents and redirect them. Because memory care is a smaller area, you’ll have more staff-resident interaction to help engage the residents and keep them stimulated.”

CORE VALUES

Whichever type of residency you choose for your loved one, Vineyard Johns Creek maintains a consistent approach to care, connection, and community that is rooted in one principle: to “T.H.R.I.V.E.” According to the team at Vineyard, “the only thing more important than adding years to your life, is adding life to your years.” Through the T.H.R.I.V.E. principle, Vineyard Johns Creek is committed to care that is “thoughtful, healthful, recreational, intellectual, vital and environmental.” They meet this goal by working to have not only a positive impact on their residents, but the community of Johns Creek, too. They also prioritize helping residents lead a healthier and happier life through personalized activities and amenities, learning new skills,

BUSINESS

A LOT OF PEOPLE THINK THAT THEY’LL LOSE INDEPENDENCE WHEN THEY MOVE INTO AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY, BUT MORE TIMES THEY ACTUALLY BECOME MORE INDEPENDENT.” - Annette Fields, Executive Director, Vineyard Johns Creek

and staying connected to their physical, spiritual and emotional needs in order to have a more fulfilling and enriching life. “It’s important to get to know the residents not only at this moment, but

also what their life was like growing up. Where did they come from? What did they do when they were younger? What music did they listen to? What dreams did they have before life took over — kids, jobs — that they didn’t get to do,” Fields says. “How can we help them to get as close to that dream as possible? Just because you’re older,

it doesn’t mean you can’t keep living.” The goal at Vineyard Johns Creek is to help residents meet those needs and thrive for years to come. ■

Vineyard Johns Creek is scheduled to open in spring 2022. For more information or to schedule a tour, call 770-999-0266 or visit VineyardSeniorLiving.com.

B U S I N E S S S P OT L I G H T: G O O D L A N D I N G R E C O V E R Y

Restoring Hope

Good Landing Recovery exists to destroy the power of addiction by creating an atmosphere where God can restore families and lives through the body, spirit and soul. By Angela Veugeler / Photos Courtesy Good Landing Recovery

to 20 million Americans struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, and more than 90,000 overdoses in 2020 (up from 70,000 in 2019), there is clearly a major epidemic in our country that continues to grow. According to Medscape, drug overdoses have become the No. 1 cause of injury-related death in the United States. Whether it’s a distant relative, friend, close family member or you, most of us know someone who struggles with addiction and it has affected countless families. From lying and manipulation to denial, isolation, money problems, abuse and legal troubles, addiction has negative effects on not only the one struggling with it, but all those around them. There are many treatment centers for those willing to get help, but unfortunately most of them Holly and Trey Lewis, Co-Founders Good Landing Recovery are costly and there is a high relapse rate. According to Trey Lewis, Founder and CEO of Good Landing Recovery in Dacula, this isn’t because there aren’t good treatment options available — it comes down to pride. “Pride is the common denominator with WITH CLOSE

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

a great failure rate. Families often don’t understand what love is supposed to look like when they have a loved one struggling. What they think they are doing in the name of love is enabling them to stay sick.”

Breaking the Chains of Addition  Founded by Trey Lewis and Pastor Bobby Humphrey in 2017, Good Landing’s recovery program uses Christ-centered and biblically based treatments to break the chains of addiction, restore hope, and help clients experience lasting transformation. In just four short years, Good Landing has quickly grown to be the largest independent facility with a single location in the state of Georgia with 140 clients. Before starting Good Landing, Lewis served in the Air Force and has traveled the country preaching the gospel, leading outreach initiatives and inspiring thousands through leadership conferences. Attending 10 treatment centers by the time he was 25 years old, he knows firsthand how dangerous a life controlled by drugs and alcohol can be. After being set free from this life, he was filled with a passionate calling to tell everyone about the transforming power and love that is found only in Christ.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

BUSINESS

Good Landing Recovery provides a healthy, faith-driven therapeutic environment, enhancing the recovery process and giving patients tools to help them stay strong and avoid future temptations.

According to Lewis, “The idea of Good Landing began when Bobby Humphrey called in March of 2017 and asked what I was doing with my life. I looked at it as an insult — I was making over six figures, I was doing good. He said, ‘I believe God has so much more for you.’ At the time, if I didn’t have an obligation on Saturday mornings, I would do ministry, hanging out with guys that were just trying to make it. I always had a sense that it [Good Landing] would work. I knew how my life had been impacted. I wavered in it a little bit but then doubled down and just did it. We got five or seven clients in there and then by May 2018 became licensed and then it just took off.” “It has been completely different running point on the whole thing. But we saw the response, the lives that were changing. I always knew God had breathed on this and opened this door. We really create a life-giving environment. The culture is so important. I run it more as getting in the trenches. My office is right in the middle of the program, people are in and out of my office all the time. When I got clean, I got discipled and mentored to and we try to reproduce that here. We have incorporated the things that I felt were super important to me that will translate to other people.” “One of those is rebuilding the body they had treated so poorly during addiction. Clients come in here one day and all they have been doing up until that point is just losing. Today maybe they can only bench press 100 pounds, but next week it will be 125 pounds, they can really progress and see it so fast.” Good Landing has created an environment for clients that facilitates spiritual, emotional, mental, and physical change. They aim to transform lives through stimulating activities, group accountability, physical exercise, biblical counseling, and above all else, a purposeful relationship with Christ. For more information on Good Landing, visit GoodLandingRecovery.com.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Danielle’s Testimony Good Landing’s Women’s Program Tech and Admissions Specialist Danielle Brummit shared her comeback story with us. I GREW up in a pastor’s home, my parents

were in ministry. It was a unique situation because everyone sees one side of it when you are outside looking in. When I was 7 years old, I found out my mom was struggling with addiction. She had experienced trauma when she was younger and never had the opportunity to deal with it. She got addicted to pain medications after having hand surgery. I remember feeling like my mom would rather fuel her needs than keep me safe. I felt that even though I still didn’t know what this was, my mom loved it more than me. Being a pastor’s wife, my mom began to wear a ‘mask.’ She was expected to be one way and be there for those struggling and in addiction but not be in the same place with them. I saw her be one way at church and then completely fall apart at home. It was very difficult for me to see. I wanted to fix it, but I didn’t know how. When I was 16 years old, I was going to a youth leaders’ home to hang out. She had some things missing in her life, but felt accepted by us, and began to allow us to throw parties at her house and use substances in her home. She introduced me to methamphetamine. I still had that insecurity, and when I took it, I felt stronger and braver than I actually was. I was able to be someone that I wasn’t. That began a downward spiral for me, and I started to wear the same ‘mask’ my mom wore. I would be at church and try to be what everyone expected me to be and then leave there and use illegal substances. That brought about a lot of shame

BUSINESS

“My biggest fear was that people weren’t going to accept me if I was real, but that is why they accepted me.”

and guilt. I knew what was right, but I began to spiral out of control. I started dealing with a lot of major depression and anxiety. When I was 24 years old, I got into a major car accident while I was sober. A semi ran a red light and hit my driver’s door going 70mph. It completely crushed my car and gave me a major back injury. My disc completely disintegrated. I was very stubborn and refused to have back surgery for a year. During this time, I became dependent on pain pills. When I finally had the surgery, I became even more dependent on pain pills until I got to the point where I couldn’t continue working. At the time of the accident, I was a Kindergarten teacher (I thought I could quit using drugs and change my life if I had a good job). God used that accident to get me out of teaching. After the accident, I started doing administrative stuff for my dad. I wouldn’t show up to work, had an apartment with toxic people, and was in a toxic relationship. I wasn’t living anymore. I was just trying to survive. I was in and out of the hospital because I wasn’t eating. I would get fluids and go right back to using. My mom had gone through treatment so I had heard about it, but I had isolated myself from everyone that I might turn to for help.

In July of 2019, there was a lady named MJ from Georgia who came up as one of the top ‘people you may know’ on my Facebook account, even though we had no mutual friends. To this day I am still not sure what made me reach out to her, but I did. We began communicating and I ended up opening up to her about my struggles. She came to Tampa to see me. When I picked her up from the airport she just started crying. When I realized she saw how bad I was it scared me. I had never been around someone who was going to do something about helping me. I pushed her away. I left her at an Airbnb. I didn’t want help; I was terrified of being exposed. I wore this ‘mask’ for years. I was so scared of what people thought about me. I had seen the way people treated my mom and I was scared of that as well. There was about a two-week window where she had left and then came back to Georgia. In just those two weeks, things had gotten a lot worse. I assumed MJ would leave me alone, but she didn’t. She introduced me to Trey Lewis. Trey called me; he was great, like talking to a friend. I came to Good Landing in July 2019. I knew I was going to die if I didn’t but was not 100% set on getting clean. I brought the ‘mask’ that I wore for many years, the people pleasing, to rehab with me. I left in November 2019, went back to Tampa for a few months and had the worst relapse of my whole life. I introduced myself back to the world of addiction. I picked up right where I left off, but my body wasn’t used to that; it completely ruined me. I quickly returned to Georgia. I decided I was going to live in the area but not go back to treatment. I moved to Duluth, got an apartment and continued using. In April 2020, I reached out to Trey. My addiction was worse than it had ever been, my weight was lower than it had been, but I was terrified. I sent Trey a message and

said, ‘Hey Trey, I’m struggling.’ I didn’t even expect to get a response. He quickly replied, ‘Do you want to come home?’ In this treatment center where I had made a fool of myself, the owner asked if I wanted to come home. They love you like Jesus loves you. They show you Jesus by accepting you like you are, no matter how much of a fool you have been. On April 25, 2020, I came back. I met with Trey and realized if I was really going to do this, I was going to do everything different than I did the first time. That’s what I did. I put my head down and worked through trauma with my therapist. My biggest fear was that people weren’t going to accept me if I was real, but that is why they accepted me. I realized the rules were here to help me grow. When I came back, they had open arms. They didn’t remind me of the horrible things I had done in the past, they wanted to help with my comeback story, and help me win. Now I am a house manager and I help with admissions. I get to see girls come in wearing the ‘mask.’ It is really healing to be what Good Landing has been to me to other people. I feel like I am directly in the center of God’s will here. It has been life changing and great. The big difference I have seen here is the love Good Landing has for people; they are willing to work with you and love you no matter where you are in your addiction. In here, it’s all about connecting, which is 100% because it is Christ centered. We are like a big family. That was the difference for me, I needed to be shown Jesus. I had heard about it my whole life, but I was never shown Christ like I was shown Christ here. They say, ‘I love you and I’m going to be here with you.’ That’s exactly what Christ’s love is, and I needed that. I know 100% the reason why I am sober today is because of my relationship with the Lord. Every day I get up and I don’t choose drugs anymore, I choose the Lord and in that I have true identity.” ■

5 Home Heating Tips

WITH WINTER RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER, NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO GET YOUR HOME PREPARED FOR THE COLD WEATHER THAT’S COMING. THESE FIVE HOME HEATING TIPS ARE YOUR GUIDE TO STAYING COZY INSIDE BEFORE THE FIRST FREEZE HITS. FRESH FILTERS Change your filter every 60-90

days, or every 30 days if you have pets. A clogged filter makes your system work overtime, driving up energy bills and decreasing air flow.

PROPER AIR FLOW Make sure you aren’t covering BY MATTHEW HOLTKAMP

your home’s air vents and returns with furniture, rugs or drapes. Proper air flow helps prevent hot and cold spots in your home.

Matthew Holtkamp is the President of Holtkamp Heating & Air Conditioning which provides awardwinning air conditioning and furnace/heat pump repairs, replacement and maintenance to Gwinnett County and surrounding areas from its Suwanee headquarters.

SEAL GAPS Take a walk around your home’s interior and exterior, looking for leaks and gaps around doors and windows that could be sealed or fixed. Don’t let the air you’re paying to heat escape your home!

INSPECT DUCTWORK Speaking of air escaping, when’s the last time your ductwork was inspected? According to the Department of Energy, an average of 30% of all heated and cooled air escapes into attics, crawlspaces and basements due to leaky

ductwork. Yikes! Heating these spaces is simply throwing money away.

PREP YOUR SYSTEM You wouldn’t let your car go

a year without maintenance, and you shouldn’t let your HVAC system do the same. A tune-up is the easiest and most affordable way to keep it in tip-top shape and avoid major repairs when temperatures plummet. Gas furnaces also need to be inspected for microscopic cracks for safe heating. Plus, you can have us inspect your ductwork while we’re at your home.

BONUS TIP: Never pay for repairs again. That’s

right, with our new System Care Program, you’ll never pay for repairs, maintenance, service or filters ever again. All for a low monthly payment, you’ll have the ultimate piece of mind. And that low payment includes a brand new energy-efficient system!

 To schedule maintenance, a ductwork inspection or get a free estimate for your System Care

Program at a low monthly payment, please call 770-271-7511 or visit HoltkampHVAC.com today. We’ll keep you cozy all winter long!

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

BUSINESS BY: Bill & Cindi Porter, AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS

Q: IS INVESTING IN THE STOCK MARKET LIKE GOING TO VEGAS?

No. At a casino, your odds are always less than 50%. According to Wizard of Odds, the worst odds are with Keno. Statistically, you will lose 77% of your Keno bets. They rate the odds of losing at other casino games as follows: • Slots 60% • Roulette 55.3% • Poker 53.4% • Blackjack 52% • Craps 51.4% It may be entertaining to gamble at a casino, but it is certainly not a place to play with your investment funds. On the other hand, the U.S. stock market (Dow Jones) has provided investors with mostly positive returns for many decades (1901-2020). The longer one has held their investment in the stock market the higher the percentage of positive results:

• 1-year periods were up 74.2% of the time. • 3-year periods were up 86.5% of the time • 5-year periods were up 90% of the time • 10–year periods were up 97% of the time • 15– year periods were up 99.9% of the time

Investing in the stock market is not akin to gambling. While the markets are not guaranteed to produce positive results, and past performance is not a predictor of future performance, the historical record shows that a long-term stock market investor has had an extremely high percentage of positive returns. A conversation with your trusted advisor about your nongambling, long-term investment money is usually time well spent — especially in the tumultuous times in which we are now living. ■ Source: Invesco Funds – Navigating Volatility https://www.invesco.com/us-rest/contentdetail?conte ntId=022984ddcac1e610VgnVCM1000006e36b50aRCRD. Page 5. Accessed 09/27/2021.

All investments are subject to risk including the potential loss of principal. No investment strategy can guarantee a profit or protect against loss in periods of declining values. Securities and advisory services offered through Madison Avenue Securities,C L M ( AS), member FINRA/SIPC and a Registered Investment Advisor. MAS and Aileron Investment Advisors are not affiliated entities.

Send your investment questions to: submissions@ SuwaneeMagazine.com

THE H O L I D AY ISSUE

GIFTS TO PROMOTE HEALTHY LIVING

2021

ur annual Holiday Gift Guide features gift ideas and exclusive deals to help make your holiday shopping easier. Local businesses have given us their top picks for the best gifts this season that run the gamut of fashion and accessories, health and wellness items, gift cards to local restaurants and more! No matter who’s on your list this holiday season, you’re sure to find something to please (and surprise!) everyone.

Living Well Farmers Market is the place to go to find a wide variety of gifts to promote healthy living! They support our hardworking local farmers and vendors by providing specialty natural foods that focus on nonGMO, organic, and local items. They are conveniently located in Siena Suwanee Town Center.

400 Buford Highway, Ste 1102 470-238-3419 LivingWellGA.com

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

GIFTS FOR THE HOME Give the best gift ever — a gift certificate from Queen of Hearts. 500+ booths filled with old and new furniture of every style, home decor accessories, collectibles, sports memorabilia, inspiration and so much more! Three locations: Buford, Alpharetta, Marietta

4125 GA-20, Buford 678-714-0643 QueenofHeartsAntiquesInteriors.com

GIVE THE GIFT OF CREATIVITY Eco-Friendly Crafts is a specialty arts & craft store located on Lawrenceville Suwanee Road, across the street from Blue Pearl Animal Hospital. They carry a wide range of fine art supplies, yarns, HTV, vinyl, craft kits and more. They also offer a variety of classes and workshops for children and adults featuring art lessons, knitting and crochet lessons and craft workshops. Gift certificates can be used online or in store, for products or classes.

2001 Lawrenceville Suwanee Road, Ste 104, Suwanee EcoFriendlyCrafts.com

AUTHENTIC CELTIC GIFTS

Celebrate Christmas with authentic Celtic-style ties, scarves, shawls and much more. 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!

1275 Buford Highway, Ste 105, Suwanee 877-411-KILT (5458) AtlantaKilts.com

ONE-STOP SHOPPING FOR FUNKY TRENDY GIFTS Parsons Gifts is your go-to store in Suwanee for fun, trendy and exciting one-stop gift shopping! They stock all your favorites and exclusive brands including Brighton, Vera Bradley, e Newton, Spartina, Mud Pie, Spanx, Ronaldo Jewelry, and Tyler Candle. Located near Fresh Market 1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suwanee 770-271-7735 Parsons-Suwanee-GA.com

MAKE THE HOLIDAYS MERRY AND LITE WITH A PLANET SMOOTHIE GIFT CARD Suwanee’s Planet Smoothie is focused on delivering great-tasting smoothies in a wide variety of options to fit the unique needs that your taste and lifestyle demand. That’s why gift cards are a perfect present or stocking stuffer for the person in your life who’s always on the go.

320 Town Center Ave., Suwanee 770-945-8785 PlanetSmoothie.com/ stores/19036

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

THE GIFT OF HEALING Chances are someone you know is in much need of stress or pain relief. Give the gift of healing with CBD tinctures, gummies, topical creams, and beauty products. Whatever form you choose, Relax+Releaf can help with your holiday shopping needs. Now offering massage therapy with a range of services. Gift cards also available!

1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Ste. 140, Suwanee 678-765-7020 Relax-Releaf.com

2021 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

THE PERFECT HOLIDAY GIFT Give the gift of fine dining this holiday season! Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary or holiday present, Frankie’s is the perfect gift for any occasion.

GIVE THE GIFT OF A HEALTHY HOME 6500 Sugarloaf Pkwy. Floor 3, Duluth 678-395-6447

Grab a Thieves Bundle from Suwanee Spine and Healing Center! The Thieves line from Young Living is a powerful cleaner that actually works! With essential oils like lemon, cinnamon, and clove, you can clean your house and disinfect your environment without using harsh, dangerous chemicals. The Thieves Bundle includes Thieves Household Cleaner, Thieves Spray, and Thieves Hand Soap. A great value for $50! 4300 Westbrook Road, Suwanee 678-765-8494 SuwaneeSpine.com

GIFTS FOR THE LOVER OF THE ARTS As the hub of Suwanee’s bold & artistic atmosphere, Suwanee Arts Center is home to artist & patrons alike, providing gallery space for exhibits & classes. Please join them on Sunday, December 5 from 1-4 pm for the opening of their Holiday exhibit. Enjoy an afternoon of arts, conversation & refreshments. Browse a variety of unique and distinctive gifts.

Town Center at 3930 Charleston Market St., Suwanee 678-878-2818 SuwaneeArtsCenter.org Netherworld

FOR EASY SHOPPING, COOL STUFF AND HELPFUL FOLKS, ACE IS THE PLACE

Give a gift card for THE NEXT GREAT WELLNESS TREND: STRETCH and take advantage of a limited time offer while it lasts: 3 stretch sessions for only $99. Makes a perfect gift for anyone on your list, or even for yourself. Contact the studio to purchase and for additional details.

Shop S&S Ace Hardware in Buford for holiday lighting and hook-up, gift gadgets, tools and hearth items, outdoor cooking and games and much more! They also feature quality premium branded products. 4160 Buford Drive, Buford 770-932-1458 SSAceHardware.com

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

425 Buford Hwy., Suwanee 678-541-5956 StretchZone.com

2021 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE

BESPOKE PAPER FLOWERS MAKE GREAT GIFTS Choosing to have paper flowers is a unique alternative to real flowers that allows you to have any flower, during any season, in any shade that will last. Each bloom is lovingly hand crafted, petal by petal resulting in a one-of-a-kind paper floral piece to capture a special moment in time, celebrate an occasion together, or to adorn your home with everlasting florals. Just as real flowers are perfect for any occasion, paper flowers will last beyond. Contact Carol to start planning your design.

678-460-6469 carol@petalsandpearlsdesign.com PetalsandPearlsDesign.com

GIVE THE GIFT OF FINE DINING Bottles & Bones is the answer to the traditional steakhouse: A modern American chophouse that’s sophisticated yet approachable, chef-driven and customer-focused, high quality and high energy, delivering an experience that transcends 90 minutes of fine dining.

400 Buford Hwy N.E., Suwanee 678-804-9447 BottlesandBonesGA.com

THE GIFT OF CLEAN AIR Respiratory illnesses affect us all. With 90% of our day spent indoors, Core Air reduces pathogens and allergens that cause inflammation and infection, giving your lungs a BREATH of FRESH air! Core Air Pod personal air purifier produces millions of ions per cubic foot using pulse tip technology. It is proven to reduce allergens (dust, dander, pollen, smoke, mold spores) that trigger asthma and allergy attacks and is effective against viruses, bacteria, voc's, and odors. The negative ions produce biochemical reactions that increase levels of the mood chemical serotonin, helping to alleviate depression, relieve stress, and boost our daytime energy. It works indoors and outside, has a two-hour charge, a 48-hour battery life and a 3-year warranty.

800-291-9921 CoreAirPurification.com

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

The most dangerous things are sometimes the hardest to see...

Deactivates viruses & Kills Bacteria

Neutralizes Odors leaving spaces smelling fresh and clean

Prevents mold growth and kills exsisting mold spores

Touch Free, Minimal Maintenance and NO replacement parts

Reduces allergens like dust, dander, pollen, etc.

Breaks down VOCs like formaldehyde, ammonia, and bleach, into harmless elements

No Harmful UV

Respiratory illnesses affect us all. With 90% of our day spent indoors, Core Air reduces pathogens and allergens that cause inflammation and infection giving your lungs a BREATH of FRESH air!

24/7 Core Air products are UL 2998 certified (no ozone or byproducts)

Full installation support and 3 Year Warranty

12+ year life expectancy

Peace Of Mind For Everyone

Air Cleaning for the WHOLE home

Give your family the best start to the day by sleeping in the cleanest, freshest air possible. Core Air's patented technology is proven to effectively destroy pathogens, reduce allergens that trigger allergies and asthma, and neutralize odors from pets, cooking, etc. Our whole Home systems are cost effective (starting at $499 installed) and work 24/7 to help you live your best life.

Not valid with other offers or prior purchases. Expires 10-31-21.

Call 800.291.9921 or www.coreairpurification.com

PHOTO BY CHRIS BARTELSKI

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

PHOTO BY CHRIS BARTELSKI

THE H O L I D AY ISSUE

PHOTO BY CHRIS BARTELSKI

HOW TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS RIGHT HERE IN OUR COMMUNITY WITH A FEW OF OUR FAVORITE LOCAL FESTIVE EVENTS SURE TO PLEASE EVERYONE IN THE FAMILY! BY ALICIA CARTER

PHOTO BY MELISSA HOLLINGSWORTH

As the song goes, it’s the most wonderful time of the year, when there’s much mistletoeing, hearts are all glowing and loved ones are near. Lucky for us, there’s plenty of good cheer to be had with loved ones right here in our community. You could say Suwanee and our surrounding cities are pretty festive this time of year considering the number of tried-and-true holiday events taking place across town, like Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular, Aurora Theatre’s annual Christmas Canteen and new family favorite License to Chill Snow Island — there’s a little something for everyone. So go ahead and mark your calendars and let’s all have the hap, hap, happiest Christmas since Bing Crosby… well, you know. Happy holidays!

20 30

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

BUILD A GINGERBREAD HOUSE FOR SUWANEE ACADEMY OF THE ARTS’ GINGERBREAD CONTEST Gather the kiddos and join in the baking fun and create a gingerbread house to enter in Suwanee Academy of the Arts’ annual Gingerbread Contest — or just come by and enjoy the sights and smells. The theme this year is “Memories of Christmas.” Bring your entry to Suwanee Academy of the Arts on Saturday, December 4, from 9-11 a.m. Gingerbread creations will be on display at Suwanee Academy of the Arts through December 18. People can view the houses in-person or virtually and vote for their favorites ($1 per vote). Winners and the “audience favorite” award will be announced after the TAC-ky Christmas Sweater Improv show on December 18. Contest rules and information can be found at SuwaneePerforms.org. Suwanee Academy of the Arts, 341 Main Street, Suwanee. For more information about the contest, visit SuwaneeAcademy.com or follow them on Facebook at Facebook.com/SAA341.

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

VISIT SANTA AT SUWANEE’S JOLLY HOLLY DAY

TAKE THE FAMILY ICE SKATING AT THE SUGAR HILL ICE RINK

Jolly Holly Day is an annual tradition in Suwanee that features local school chorus groups and the big man himself: Santa! Ol’ Saint Nick comes early and visits with all the good girls and boys and lets folks take photos beginning at 6:30 p.m. Then, once all the chorus groups are finished, Santa helps to light the big holiday tree on the fountain in the park. There will be crafts, food trucks, hot chocolate and s'mores while supplies last! Saturday, Dec. 3, 6:30 p.m. Town Center Park, 330 Town Center Ave. in Suwanee. For more information, visit Suwanee.com.

Is it really the holiday season without a trip to Sugar Hill’s ice rink? Noted as the largest portable ice-skating rink in the Southeast, Sugar Hill’s rink is the same size as Rockefeller Center’s ice rink, so there’s plenty of space to practice your double axel or simply enjoy a leisurely spin around the rink with the family, whichever you prefer. Glide on the ice along to music with a snow machine, disco ball, and theatrical stage lighting in the crisp North Georgia air. Then, treat yourself to a snack at the concession stand — you’ll have earned it after a few laps around the rink! There are free safety helmets and skate trainers for the kids, and private skate instruction available for adults. You can also book your own private event, party, or school event. Nov. 11-Feb. 20. Thursdays, 5-9 p.m.; Fridays 4-10 p.m.; Saturdays 11 a.m.-11 p.m.; and Sundays 1-8 p.m. $11-$13 (includes skate rental). Season Pass: $129 (includes skate rental). 5039 W. Broad St. N.E., Sugar Hill. HaidRink.com.

TAKE IN THE LIGHTS AT THE LAKESIDE LIGHTS SPECTACULAR Kick start your holidays with a visit to Margaritaville’s all-new Lakeside Lights Spectacular for a night of nostalgic wintry fun. The Lakeside Lights Spectacular will take you on a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music. It’s great for the whole family! Nov. 12-Feb. 27, nightly at 5 p.m. $9.99-$14.99. For more information, visit MargaritavilleResorts.com/margaritaville-at-lanier-islands.

Winter Fun at Margaritaville Lanier Islands

Enjoy the winter season with a visit to License to Chill Snow Island and the Lakeside Lights Spectacular at Margaritaville Lanier Islands for a time of wintry fun! Create special memories for the whole family with snow tubing, amusement rides, ice skating, and playing in the snow.

Lakeside Lighrt!s Spectacula

For more details visit MargaritavilleAtLanierIslands.com

LAUGH TOGETHER AT AURORA THEATRE’S CHRISTMAS CANTEEN

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Gwinnett’s longest-running theatrical holiday tradition, Christmas Canteen, is a beloved musical revue that makes The Most Wonderful Time of the Year even more wonderful. Aurora Theatre fills the show with songs, comic sketches, trips down memory lane, and a sprinkle of Christmas magic. This year, the show makes its debut in the new 500-seat Grand Stage Theatre of the Lawrenceville Arts Center. It’s the perfect way to get in the holiday spirit, plus it's fun for the whole family, so bring the kiddos! Nov. 26-Dec. 23. Thurs.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Sat.Sun., 2:30 p.m. Additional performances on Dec. 1 at 10 a.m.; Dec. 21 at 10 a.m.; and Dec. 22 at 8 p.m. Tickets from $25. Lawrenceville Arts Center Grand Stage, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville. Box Office: 678-226-6222. AuroraTheatre.com

PHOTO BY CHRIS BARTELSKI

GO SNOW TUBING AT LICENSE TO CHILL SNOW ISLAND After checking out Lakeside Lights, be sure to visit Snow Island, Margaritaville’s Christmastime attraction that weaves traditional holiday revelry with maritime flourishes and features tons of activities for the family, including winter-themed carnival rides, an ice-skating rink, snow play areas, fire pit s’mores, and more! The star of the island is the all-new snow tubing hill, which is said to be the fastest in North America. Nov. 12-Feb. 27. Tickets to License to Chill Snow Island begin at $39.99. For hours and more information, visit MargaritavilleResorts. com/margaritaville-at-lanier-islands.

PICK OUT A CHRISTMAS TREE AT THE GARLAND BROS. CHRISTMAS TREE LOT Brian and Drew own Garland Bros. Inc. in Suwanee, a familyowned and operated business spanning three generations. The two have been in the Christmas tree-selling business since they were kids. When Drew was in high school, the brothers operated 17 tree lots in metro Atlanta, all manned by his brothers and their friends. The Suwanee location, located across from Town Center Park, has been a holiday staple for 23 years. “The reason we still run the lot is mainly to teach young people to work, and the reason we don't put prices on the trees is because it forces the young employees to have conversations with adult customers — something kids these days lack,” Drew says. Grown in the mountains of North Carolina, the Garland Bros.’s trees will make the perfect addition to your Christmas decorations! Visit them at 6 US-23 in Suwanee.

GIVE BACK WITH NORTH GWINNETT CO-OP In addition to its regular pantry and thrift store operations, North Gwinnett Co-op oversees four major initiatives during the holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas Meal Boxes, sponsoring children with Christmas gifts, sponsoring senior citizens for Christmas, and their Susan Roebuck Santa Shop. The holiday meal boxes are provided to families in need and are filled with side items for a holiday meal in addition to a $20 gift card for perishables. Those interested in participating can donate items for the meal box, donate $50 to sponsor a complete holiday meal box, or pick up an empty box from the co-op and fill it with required items. A list of items can be found at NorthGwinnettCoop.org. North Gwinnett Co-op also offers the opportunity for community members to play the role of Secret Santa to a child or senior this Christmas. Sponsor a child by donating a winter coat, set of pajamas, one outfit for school or church, one pair of shoes, and a toy (not to exceed $30). Sponsor a senior by providing a winter coat, robe and/or pajamas, clothing or household needs, one pair of shoes, and personal care items. Sponsors will receive the child’s or senior’s name and identification number, their sizes, favorite color and a few ideas for toys/gifts. Gifts should be delivered to the co-op by Friday, Dec. 10. Please wrap gifts separately. For a full list of items, visit NorthGwinnettCoop.org. Each year the parents of sponsored children are invited to attend North Gwinnett Co-op’s Santa Shop Day, which offers an opportunity for the parents to pick out toys for their children at no cost. Susan Roebuck was a champion in our community as she advocated and served those in need. To honor Susan’s memory, the co-op’s Santa Shop is now called the “Susan Roebuck Santa Shop.” New toys and gifts are needed to make Santa Shop Day a success. Gifts for all ages are needed, especially gifts for teens. Ideas for teen girls include Bath & Body Works products, hair accessories, jewelry, make-up, perfume, scarves, and gift cards. Ideas for teen boys include baseball hats, wallets, watches, socks, cologne, and gift cards. North Gwinnett Co-op’s drop-off hours of operation are Monday, noon-8 p.m.; Wednesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; and Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. The co-op is located at 4395 Commerce Drive in Buford. For more information about their holiday initiatives and other ways to give back, visit NorthGwinnettCoop.org.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

BRING THE LITTLE ONES TO THE NUTCRACKER TEA

PHOTO BY THROUGH THE GLASS PHOTOGRAPHY

Imagine an enchanting tale brought to life through magical storytelling and delightful dancing by the Suwanee Ballet. Perfect for youngsters to experience and interact with the story of The Nutcracker. The event will take place Saturday, December 4, at 3 p.m. and Sunday, December 5, at 3 p.m. at the Suwanee Academy of the Arts Main Street Playhouse. Admission is $28, and $10 for an extra observer. Go to SuwaneePerforms.org for more information.

BEST OF THE NUTCRACKER Selections from The Nutcracker will be performed by the Suwanee Ballet on December 11 and 12 at the Eagle Theatre in Sugar Hill. Each show will feature limited seating. The Suwanee Ballet production features beautiful costumes and some special extra holiday fun. For ticket information visit SuwaneePerforms.org.

Check out all the fun holday-themed events going on in Sugar Hill on page 80.

SHOW OFF YOUR TACKY CHRISTMAS SWEATER 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. The Tac-Ky Christmas Sweater Extravaganza takes place Saturday, December 18, at the Suwanee Academy of the Arts Main Street Playhouse. The admission cost is $10 and everyone is encouraged to wear your favorite Tacky Christmas Sweater! More information can be found at SuwaneePerforms.org.

THE H O L I D AY ISSUE

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre Celebrates 40 Years of The Nutcracker PHOTOS BY RICHARD CALMES

time of the year again. It’s time for snowflakes, mouse kings, nutcrackers, and sugarplum fairies to capture the thoughts of a new generation. For the last 77 years, audiences around the country have been captivated by the full-length holiday classic of The Nutcracker. During 39 of these 77 years, audiences in Gwinnett County have been delighted and entertained by Gwinnett Ballet Theatre’s production of The Nutcracker. This year, GBT is celebrating its 40th year of performing The Nutcracker. With its vibrant characters and childhood wonder, The Nutcracker has become one of the most popular ballets in the world. To celebrate the milestone, Gwinnett Ballet Theatre is planning several special activities and events to make this season’s production extraordinary. This year, GBT is bringing back its Celebrity Mother Gingers where local leaders and public servants are challenged to wow the crowd with their interpretive performance of this larger-than-life character. There will also be a special alumni reception and performance for GBT dancers from prior decades to get together and reminisce about their moments of fame. GBT will offer several school shows to give students an exciting field trip and an opportunity to learn about the theater and the arts. In addition, GBT will perform a sensory-friendly show for those easily startled or new to the theater. T’S THAT

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre celebrates its 40th year of performing The Nutcracker with shows taking place Dec. 4-19 at Gas South District Theatre.

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre was founded in 1977 by Lynn Snipes and was the first performing arts non-profit company in Gwinnett County. Over the years that followed, GBT was led by many talented artistic directors. In 2020, Lori Zamzow-Wire, the current GBT Artistic Director, transformed GBT into a professional ballet company with paid dancers and full-season contracts. “Gwinnett has produced many professional dancers who have had no other option but to move out of the county to pursue their passion for dance. Now the professional company of GBT is drawing that talent back and bringing new talent to Gwinnett County,” says Lori Zamzow-Wire. In fact, this year GBT received several hundred applications and audition inquiries from across the nation and around the world to join the professional company. The Gwinnett

Ballet Theatre is based at the Sugarloaf Performing Arts Center in Suwanee. It is the largest location for dance instruction in Gwinnett County and features a dance instruction school, youth ballet company, daytime ballet conservatory, and the professional GBT company.

The opening day for Gwinnett Ballet Theatre’s 40th anniversary of The Nutcracker is Saturday, December 4, at the Gas South District Theatre (formerly Infinite Energy Center). The shows continue for three weekends until the curtain closes for the season on Sunday, December 19. Virtual tickets will also be available for several performances for those who are unable to attend and want to enjoy the performance at home. This option is ideal for those who are at-risk, out of state, or are not comfortable around public gatherings. Gwinnett Ballet Theatre is also offering live performances and virtual tickets at a discounted rate to daycare facilities and local public and private schools. ■ Visit GwinnettBallet.org for more details and ticket information.

Modern Day Healing: Health info from Suwanee Spine and Healing Center

The Next Evolution in Natural Wellness

Healthcare is changing, and has been for quite some time. Modern day healing and natural self-care is becoming more about a multitude of preventative, wellness services and less about reactionary services. Unfortunately, if you’re anything like me and like the many patients we serve, you’ve noticed it can be difficult to meet all of your wellness needs under one roof. BY DR. LAUREN MILLMAN

WHEN I opened Suwanee Spine nine years ago, I operated a mainly chiropractic-only practice. Although we have seen an incredible amount of people heal over that time, I’ve always felt the need to integrate with other like-minded practitioners and offer more wellness options. Healing isn’t always a one size fits all approach, and different combinations of services work differently for different people. I often witnessed patients juggling between two or more wellness services, whether due to the time needed to travel to various locations,

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

or the cost involved in multiple services. This was a barrier that needed answering. Our wellness routine should be less of a juggling act. Not to mention, when patients experience a full wellness center experience, results are often received faster and longer-lasting. This has always been the idea behind true, well-rounded healing: treating the mind, body, and spirit. As we have evolved in the changing health climate, Suwanee Spine and Healing Center is proud to announce we found just that. We are now offering membership options in an effort to allow people

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

to take advantage of our integrated healing resources. We gathered the most talented practitioners under one roof, and found a way to make all these talented practitioners more accessible.

A HOLISTIC HEALTHCARE TEAM UNDER ONE ROOF ➽ Although Suwanee Spine is the only practice nationwide that offers our unique combined chiropractic approach, we didn’t stop there. We understand the importance of functional nutrition and quality supplementation, as well as stretching and movement. We understand where energy healing and homeopathy play into this. An integrative membership model practice isn’t a new concept, however, you typically find these types of practices in urban cities, or just outside of them. Many holistic and naturally-minded patients who live further in the suburbs have one major complaint: these types of all-inclusive wellness centers are more scarce the further you travel. More times than not, you have to visit one location for your chiropractor, then another one for your acupuncture, and then another for your nutrition. It’s a full-time job keeping up with your holistic healthcare team, not to mention, those multiple practitioners don’t collaborate amongst each other

about your health and wellness journey. Many times, they may not even know each other. A bunch of little wellness islands is how I view it. There are many benefits in bringing many cohesive services and practitioners under one roof. For starters, there’s benefit to a team of wellness practitioners working together for the betterment of one patient. Two heads are better than one, four are better than two, and so forth. Secondly, it has been widely observed in my practice that the patients who participate in multiple wellness services are likely to respond better and heal faster than compared to those who only use a single service. This is “synergistic healthcare,” in other words, when the collective services work as a whole. Across the board, the more well-rounded the wellness routine, the better the results. Everyone wins.. ■

PATIENTS WHO PARTICIPATE IN MULTIPLE WELLNESS SERVICES ARE LIKELY TO RESPOND BETTER AND HEAL FASTER...

Dr. Millman is the founder and upper cervical chiropractor of Suwanee Spine and Healing Center, author of The Ultimate Healing Handbook, and recently voted Best of Gwinnett 2019 and 2020. For more information, visit DrLaurenMillman.com.

FAMILY MAT TERS Jennifer Wilmoth, LMFT, Thrive Forward Therapy

Social Comparisons Stealing Your Holiday Happiness? THE HOLIDAYS are often a joyous time of the year,

however, they can also come with many social and holiday comparisons, such as neighbors talking about who has the best holiday decorations or friends mentioning the lavish gifts they have received or plan to give. Depending on how you feel about yourself and how you measure up this could make you either feel really good or bad about yourself. It is actually a human tendency to make social comparisons whenever people gather together such as on social media or during the holidays. There are two common social comparisons people make: upward comparisons and downward comparisons. An upward comparison is when we look at people we feel are better off than we are in an attempt to become inspired or hopeful. While downward comparison is when we look at people who we feel are worse off than we are in an attempt to feel better about ourselves or situation. Sometimes comparisons can be helpful to figure out how to reach a goal or improve ourselves such as parents comparing ways to keep kids off devices and interacting with the family during winter break. However, comparisons can also be a trap for sadness, stress, and conflict in relationships if we have recently experienced a setback or low self-esteem. Take a moment to explore these tips for ways to keep comparisons from stealing your happiness this holiday season:

Know Your Triggers  Think about situations where you are most likely to make comparisons that lead to stress and sadness for you such as being around

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

a competitive friend or cousin, shopping at certain stores, or driving through certain neighborhoods. Once you know your triggers, decide if these people or places are important for you to be around or if you could change your holiday plans to focus more on supportive people or different experiences that are more helpful and meaningful to you and your family.

Seek Connection  Oftentimes, comparisons are made with limited information or context such as comparing our beginning to someone’s middle or end goal. The more we connect and get to know supportive family and friends the more likely we are to genuinely share setbacks and successes toward goals, therefore giving us more of the positive benefits of comparison such as inspiration and motivation instead of the disadvantages such as stress and sadness.

Prioritize  Everyone has different priorities for their family and life so decide on your main holiday priorities and put effort into the areas that are

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

most important to you. So if your top priority is traditions or quality time with family then it is not worth your time and energy to try to make the most delicious holiday dish, take the most expensive vacation, or have the biggest tree. If you look hard enough you will always be able to find someone who has more or less than you. Even though it is not likely you will be able to completely avoid comparisons this holiday season, I hope you find ways to focus on what matters the most and brings you and your family happiness. Happy holidays! ■

JENNIFER WILMOTH, LMFT Jennifer Wilmoth is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and founder of Thrive Forward Therapy in the Suwanee area with over a decade of experience. She received her Masters of Family Therapy from Mercer University School of Medicine. She works with families and individuals dealing with a variety of concerns. She specializes in working with couples who want to improve their relationship, teens experiencing difficulties at home or school, children experiencing behavioral or relational concerns, anxiety, and depression. Learn more at ThriveForwardTherapy.com.

WHERE YOU TAKE THEM MATTERS

No matter how small or tall, Children’s is here. Whether your child is learning to walk or learning to drive, their growing body needs special care. Children’s has unparalleled expertise because we only treat kids and teens. From the simple to the complex, injuries and illnesses that affect kids and teens should be treated by a pediatric specialist, not an adult provider. No matter their age, take your child to the specialists at Children’s. Visit choa.org to learn more. ©2021 Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, Inc. All rights reserved.

City of

Art About Town

Suwanee

More and more murals are popping up around town, making Suwanee and its surrounding cities more vibrant with every brushstroke. Time to Blossom

Story by Alicia Carter

After a quick drive around our community, you’ll notice one thing to be true: Public art is on the rise, especially in our revitalized downtown areas. And that’s a good thing! Public art extends out of the gallery space and out into the real world, making it accessible to a wider audience to enjoy. It also enlivens public spaces throughout the community, transforming them from cookie-cutter spaces to destinations alive with color, design and dimension. “Public art enhances the culture of a community: It’s timeless, impacts generations, and is accessible to everyone,” says Toni Shrewsbury, the City of Suwanee’s Special Projects Coordinator. “Art is a true differentiator, and has become Suwanee’s niche.” More than just places to take the perfect Instagram photo, public murals are visual manifestations of a community’s personality as seen through an artist’s eyes. We are lucky to live among a number of amazing murals decorating buildings all around Gwinnett. Here, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorites of those murals throughout Suwanee and beyond.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

A new colorful floral design covers a 180-foot-long by 10-foot-high brick retaining wall along Buford Highway near Town Center Park. Created by artist Corey Barksdale of Atlanta, “Time to Blossom” was funded in equal parts by the Gwinnett Creativity Matching Fund Grant and the City of Suwanee. The wall space was donated by the O’Brien family.

The Evolution of Suwanee

Holtkamp Mural A colorful sight for commuters on I-85, the mural on the side of the Holtkamp Heating and Air building has been a wellknown Suwanee landmark since 2019. Chicago artist Jason Watts spent four weeks bringing the mural to life on two sides of the building, and features Settles Bridge, representing the past, which then leads viewers into the present with the iconic Suwanee City Hall that serves as the center of the community today. A secondary mural on the south-facing side of the building captures the energy and vibrancy of the music, arts, and parks scene in Suwanee.

Located on the side of Garland Brothers Building at the intersection of Buford Highway and Lawrenceville Suwanee Road across from Town Center, “The Evolution of Suwanee” was painted by North Gwinnett High School graduate Alexandra Sorto. Sorto wanted to represent the City of Suwanee, and included a train from the early 1800s (when the town was established) and another from 2016, when the mural was created. She also says it contains a number of hidden Easter eggs related to hot topics of the time.

Transformation This three-story mural at the Municipal Court building is entitled “Transformation” and was painted by Hapeville artist Lauren Pallotta Stumberg. This mural was funded as part of the construction project through Suwanee’s Developer 1% for Public Art Initiative, which encourages developers to use one percent of construction costs to include a public art component within their projects. “Transformation” represents the City’s own one percent commitment for the Municipal Court building renovation.

City of

Duluth

GIVE THE GIFT THAT LITERALLY

EVERYONE LOVES!

SCH_642278_Suwanee_Cinnabon_GiftCd_AD_3.62x4.79.indd 1

10/8/21 12:59 PM

Mermaid Tails This one-of-a-kind maritime mural covers the patio of downtown Duluth’s Noona Meat & Seafood. Created by local artist Janice Rago in 2019, this piece compliments the fresh and local ingredients used at Noona and is a unique addition to downtown Duluth.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Dream Big Created in 2018, this mural by artist Brenda Ehly depicts a cohort of ants embarking on a routine mission. According to Ehly, “While the majority immediately get down to the business of meeting their quotas and the expectations of those at home, a lone ant dares to dream on a grander scale — the dayto-day checklists of life can sometimes feel like pushing a boulder (or an olive depending on one’s stature) uphill.”

Chocolate Lady Located on the side of the Chocolaterie Luxury Chocolates building in Downtown Duluth, “The Chocolate Lady” is a local landmark created by artists Elizabeth Ashworth and Garry Limuti in 2017. According to the artists, the Chocolate Lady is “every woman with as much mystique as the Mona Lisa.”

City of

Sugar Hill Sugar Hill’s old City Hall building is home to two murals: The Sweet Life and The History of Sugar Hill.

History of Sugar Hill Mural Created by artist Chris Walker in 2017, the History of Sugar Hill mural features a “series of illustrations that serve as a timeline of Sugar Hill history: modern-day City Hall, the wagon that lost its wheel (the namesake of Sugar Hill), Carol and Walter Mangum (Mangum’s Grocery), the Shelley-Howerton home (the oldest home in Sugar Hill) and some of the area’s earliest residents, gold miners.”

The Sweet Life In 2017, the City of Sugar Hill unveiled “The Sweet Life” mural created by local artist Jennie Osiek. The large, colorful mural is located on the old City Hall building, now home of the Suite Spot, a small business incubator offering co-working space and dedicated workspaces. The previous year, the City of Sugar Hill sent out an RFP calling on local artists to submit their renderings for the City’s first official mural. Out of 20 different renderings submitted, a public arts committee selected 10 finalists to then be released to the public for voting. Of those finalists Osiek’s mural won. Speaking about the mural, Osiek said, “I wanted to portray an active and happy community, but something that is also pleasant and calming. I incorporated the tree to tie it into the City’s logo. This was probably the most heartfelt project and community-based project that I’ve ever done.”

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

ALWAYS HIRING!

FRIENDS, FAMILY AND FANTASTIC FOOD. GATHER ROUND THE TABLE WITH A FAMILY MEAL THIS THANKSGIVING!

local food, craft beer & wine trends

HOLIDAY SPIRITS TASTY HAND-CRAFTED HOLIDAY COCKTAILS

R E S TA U R A N T S P O T L I G H T: F R A N K I E ' S T H E S T E A K H O U S E

Bringing Fine Dining to the Suburbs

DULUTH’S FRANKIE’S THE STEAKHOUSE EMBODIES THE LUXE ATMOSPHERE OF A CLASSIC STEAKHOUSE, BUT REPLACES THE STEREOTYPICAL STUFFINESS WITH A LIVELY AND WELCOMING NEIGHBORHOOD FEEL. BY ALICIA CARTER / PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB.

Frankie’s The Steakhouse is like being transported to the prime age of the businessmen who lunch. Pulling inspiration from renowned restaurants of Hollywood's heyday during the 1950s and 1960s, such as the famed Brown Derby, there’s an air of formality in the dark wooden accents, white linen table cloths, and dimmed lighting that seems to call for a return to the tailored suits and night caps of that era. You almost expect Frank Sinatra to turn the corner with his Rat Pack of friends, cigars in hand. Ol’ Blue Eyes does make an appearance, however, as he softly croons over the speakers while servers carry drinks and steaks from kitchen to table. While the food may highlight modern technique and flavors, the mood is certainly a nod to old-school elegance. Part of the restaurant group Norsan Restaurants, Frankie’s The Steakhouse opened in 2017 on the third floor of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce inside Duluth's 1818 Club. The original goal was to bring fine dining to the suburbs of Gwinnett and introduce something new that had never been done in the area. The owners envisioned mixing a fine dining experience with a neighborhood feel, eliminating the stuffy reputation of older steakhouses and replacing it with a welcoming and lively environment. So while Frankie’s may harken back to another era in terms of elevated dining, it does so with a warm smile and a wink. WALKING INTO

Italian Flourishes

Frankie’s menu pulls inspiration from traditional steakhouses, but with an Italian twist. Unlike other restaurants, Frankie’s cooks their steaks in broilers,

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

Center cut filet

FOOD & DRINK Onion rings

preserving the meat’s juiciness and flavor. The most popular cuts on the menu include the center cut 8-ounce filet and 24-ounce bone-in ribeye. An impressive 38-ounce tomahawk is also available for the true steak lover. Italian flourishes can be seen in the cioppino, lobster fra diavolo, and bone-in veal Parmigiana. One of the more popular dishes on the menu is the carpaccio, a traditional Italian appetizer consisting of thinly sliced raw beef drizzled with olive oil. In addition to the steaks, Frankie’s also boasts an impressive selection of seafood almost unheard of for other traditional steakhouses. The selection includes Chilean sea bass, Dover sole, and a seafood tower featuring half of a one-pound Maine lobster, colossal crab cocktail, jumbo shrimp cocktail, oysters, and orange roughy ceviche.

YOU ALMOST EXPECT FRANK SINATRA TO TURN THE CORNER WITH HIS RAT PACK OF FRIENDS, CIGARS IN HAND.

New Fashioned

The Chicago Room

Special Occasions

For those special occasions that call for a level of privacy, Frankie’s offers beautiful private dining spaces perfect for all kinds of events, such as a business meeting, celebration or intimate dinner. The Chicago Room is perfect for large events like holiday parties with enough room to seat up to 36 people. There are also smaller spaces perfect for family dinners or closed-door conferences. While the food at Frankie’s certainly takes center stage, the owners and staff have all gone above and beyond in creating a unique dining experience for the people of Gwinnett. Rarely do we have true destination-worthy restaurants right in our backyard, but Frankie’s fills that void. It’s a place Carajillo

not only for intimate dinners, but also for celebrations. They want guests to feel like Frankie’s is the place to celebrate life, from milestones and special family moments to simply gathering with friends. They strive to provide unparalleled hospitality during every visit, no matter the occasion. It’s that old-school service that really sets Frankie’s The Steakhouse apart from other fine dining restaurants in the area. The service is friendly and attentive, with servers taking time to get to know guests by name and remember favorite orders. The bar is a communal spot to share a bourbon with friends or try out one of the many delicious cocktails, such as the New Fashioned, made with maple plank-smoked Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Transatlantic Bitters, and Luxardo Maraschino. Whether you choose a center cut filet, grilled oysters or classic bourbon cocktail, there really is no wrong choice at Frankie’s. ■



Frankie’s The Steakhouse is located on the third floor of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce building, 6500 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth. Sunday-Thursday, 5-9 p.m.; Friday-Saturday, 5-10 p.m. 678-395-6447. frankiesthesteakhouse.com.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Bare Bones’ lineup of holiday cocktails include the Bare Bones Eggnog (front to back), Grey Goose Peppermint Hot Chocolate, Peppermint White Russian, and the White Chocolate Candy Cane Martini.

THE H O L I D AY ISSUE

Holiday Spirits

Bare Bones Steakhouse’s Beverage Director Barbie Payne serves up tasty hand-crafted cocktails inspired by the holidays and shares a special recipe to recreate at home. By Alicia Carter / Photos by Gary Dowd and Jaya Lord

in 2015, downtown Buford’s Bare Bones Steakhouse has earned a reputation for preparing some of the best steaks in town. And it’s true, Buddy and Gaye Maughon and their team have spoiled patrons with primegrade cuts of meat served alongside comforting side dishes and starters. (Pro tip: Order the onion rings for the perfect start to your meal.) In addition to the steaks, Bare Bones also boasts an amazing cocktail menu, spearheaded by Bar Manager Barbie Payne. Barbie has been with the Bare Bones team for four years and took over the bar program a year and half ago. Since then, her love for infusing alcohol with different ingredients has prospered into crafting yummy cocktails for Bare Bones’ patrons. Never one to Barbie Payne, Bare Bones miss out on a good Steakhouse’s Beverage Director theme, Barbie lets her creativity shine in her seasonal drinks, which have manifested in red-white-andblue drinks for the Fourth of July, watermelon-based cocktails to usher in summertime and, perhaps our favorite, Christmas-inspired tipples in flavors like eggnog, peppermint, and hot cocoa. This year, Barbie will celebrate the SINCE OPENING

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

holiday season at Bare Bones with her tried-and-true yuletide favorites. The White Chocolate Candy Cane Martini is made with Grey Goose infused with white chocolate candy cane Hershey Kisses and white Godiva chocolate liqueur with a candy cane rim. The Grey Goose Peppermint Hot Chocolate warms you up with Grey Goose vodka infused with peppermint and hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and a candy cane garnish. The classic Peppermint White Russian is made with Grey Goose vodka infused with peppermint and mixed with a little cream and Bailey’s. And perhaps the most seasonal of them all, the Bare Bones Eggnog is created with Jim Beam Myer’s rum.

Be sure to visit Bare Bones this season to indulge in what we think are the perfect drinks to fuel your holiday shopping! They are also sure to banish any remaining humbug thoughts and replace them with a heart three sizes larger ready to give in to the holiday spirit — or in this case, holiday spirits. But before we get to all things merry and bright, Barbie has a gift for our readers with a classic cocktail recipe perfect for November, when fall leaves, fresh baked pies and Thanksgiving gatherings take center stage. Barbie’s Caramel Apple Martini is a delicious treat to kick off the beginning of the most wonderful time of the year. Cheers!

FOOD & DRINK

Caramel Apple Martini Ingredients | 1 ½ ounces Bare Bones Vodka or apple-flavored vodka | 1 ½ ounces sour apple liqueur | ½ ounce freshly squeezed lemon | Caramel sauce | Cherry, for garnish Instructions Take a cold martini glass and drizzle caramel sauce inside. Set aside martini glass. In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, apple liqueur and lemon juice. Shake until well chilled and pour into the prepared martini glass. Garnish with a cherry.

W H AT ' S BREWING

The Tale of a Thoroughly Good Beer The Story Behind StillFire Brewing’s Award-Winning Kilt Chamberlain Scotch Ale By Alicia Carter / Photos by Gary Dowd IN OCTOBER, Suwanee’s

hometown brewery, StillFire Brewing, officially celebrated two years in operation. During that time, the brewery has received 18 awards for its beer, making it the most award-winning new brewery in Georgia. This title is certainly an impressive feat, but should come as no surprise given the talent of its brewers, namely head brewmaster Phil Farrell. In September, StillFire took home its latest award, a bronze medal at the world’s largest and most prestigious commercial beer competition: the Great American Beer Festival in Colorado. The brewery was recognized in the Scotch Ale category for its

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

signature Kilt Chamberlain Ale, a 9.5% Scotch ale that features a delicious mix of caramel, dark fruit, nuts, chocolate and a wee bit of peat smoke. While Kilt Chamberlin is indeed a delicious brew, what makes this beer so special is the story behind it and its evolution into the brewery’s second anniversary beer release, Thoroughly Good. And that story starts with head brewmaster Phil. The naturally talented brewer came to StillFire with some already impressive credentials under his belt. He had judged every preeminent beer contest in the world, including The Great American Beer Festival, The World Beer Cup, Copa Cerveza (Mexican Beer Cup), The Great

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

British Beer Festival, and more. As a Grand Master Level V Beer Judge of the BJCP (Beer Judge Certification Program), Phil was ranked in the top 12 judges in the world when StillFire opened in October of 2019. He’s also a well-traveled beer connoisseur, having tasted beers in every state in the U.S. and every country in Europe, as well as places as far flung as the Vatican City and Turkey. Heck, he even won the prestigious Wynkoop Brewery “Beer Drinker of the Year” contest in 2011, earning him beer for life at the Colorado brewery. To say Phil knows good beer would be an understatement. Over time, Phil went from being an accomplished homebrewer to manning the tanks at StillFire,

FOOD & DRINK StillFire Brewing’s brewmaster Phil Farrell has led the team to winning 18 awards (so far) for its beers since opening in October 2019, making it the most awarded new brewery in Georgia.

PHOTO BY CHIP HOGSTEAD

and he’s done so without losing any of the drive or creativity that he came into the brewing business with, which is evident by all of the awards his recipes have gathered over the past two years. But let’s get back to Kilt Chamberlain. “One of the things that got me into Scottish Ales in general was just the fact that they were very complex in a malt sense

and they had a character that could be described sometimes as smokey, sometimes as peaty, and sometimes there was just an interesting malt character you just couldn’t put your finger on,” Phil says. “The difference between a Scottish Ale and a Scotch ale is that if you say something’s a Scottish Ale, it’s more of an everyday drinker. It can be very low alcohol, as little as 3.5%, or can be more like your standard middle-of-the-road beer at 5% or up to 6%. You switch from Scottish Ale to Scotch Ale when you get stronger, like 8% — which some people will describe as a ‘wee heavy.’” “I was playing around with those recipes and brewing a few and I started to really get down to picking the right malts and trying to get a good malty base, and by that point I had been brewing all grain as a homebrewer and I had been doing it for quite a few years. Kind of like Goldilocks, I narrowed it down to about six grains that I was using,” Phil continues. “I put this beer together and I said, ‘Wow this one is really good.’ I’ve done smaller versions of it as a Scottish Ale, and I played with it and I thought, ‘No, this will really shine as a Scotch Ale. I entered it in a couple of local contests and it did really well.” The first few batches of Phil’s winning Scotch Ale recipe went through a few different names,

including If It’s Not Scottish It’s Crap, after a line from a Michael Myers “Saturday Night Live” sketch. When Phil entered it into the National Homebrew Contest, he called it The Next to Last King of Scotland because The Last King of Scotland was a movie that was out at the time. “That particular one I dialed in a lot of what I was doing and I said, ‘Okay, this one is going to be really good,’ and I put it into a local contest and it won,” Phil says. “The National Homebrew Contest is a tiered kind of contest where you have to enter a regional contest and if you win the regional contest then they let you enter the beer in the national contest. It went right through and I ended up at nationals. I thought I was going to rebrew it because I had enough time, but then I second guessed myself. This version was so good and the time on the beer — just an extra six weeks — was not enough to diminish it at all. So I said, ‘I’m going to ride this horse. This one is the one.’ I put it in the contest and it won a gold medal. It was the best beer in that category that year.” After winning the Homebrew Contest, Dow Scoggins of the U.S. Open Beer Championship reached out to Phil to congratulate him on his win and to ask him to enter it in the U.S. Open. “I entered it into the U.S. Open and that beer beat all the professionals that year, and I won a gold medal. I never stopped to think about that. I thought maybe that happens all the time or that it wasn’t that unusual. But it turns out that in the intervening 12 years I am the only homebrewer who has ever won a gold medal at that competition. So I was like, ‘Wow!’” Over time, that award-winning beer evolved into StillFire’s Kilt Chamberlin. In fact, Phil says Kilt Chamberlin was his “resume” beer when he met

W H AT ' S B R E W I N G

with the owners of StillFire during the planning stages of the brewery. They loved the beer so much Phil was given the job of brewmaster on the spot. “While the brewery was under construction, I took Kilt Chamberlain and aged it on whiskey-soaked wooden spirals,” Phil says. “The beer was so delectable the team felt the bourbon versionof Kilt deserved a new name: Thoroughly Good. We entered Thoroughly Good into the 2019 Can Can Awards and won a gold medal.” Just after StillFire Brewing opened its doors in 2019, the team brewed a batch of Kilt Chamberlain and placed it in American Spirit Works bourbon barrels. The beer was barrelaged for 18 months, bottled and then released at the brewery's 2nd anniversary this past October. Phil describes the 13.6% ABV result as complex, strong and wonderful with big notes of oak and vanilla, along with lots of dark fruit that make it a true malty delight. Kilt Chamberlain and Thoroughly Good are a great representation of the talent and skill StillFire Brewing has to offer. If its progression from an award-winning homebrew to a limited-edition barrel-aged release is a testament to the future of the brewery, we think we’ll order one more thoroughly good beer. ■

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

StillFire Brewing's Geoff "G" Heeren, Phil Farrell and Walt Wooden pose with the seven medals they won at the 2021 Can Can Awards.

PARTY HACKS with Nat

NATALIE GARRETT

Suwanee Magazine's official party queen shares insights on making your next event a smashing success!

Contributing Writer

slight chill in the air, the sound of cheering and commentating fills the background from the enthralling football games of the day, the smell of a turkey roasting lingers through the house with freshly baked goods and casseroles ordained across an oversized spread in the kitchen… we’ve finally made it. Time to pull out our stretchy pants and prepare our appetites so that we can engage our inner feast-mode! I’m a little biased considering how invested I become around the holidays, but I think many of us can agree that Thanksgiving holds a particular buildup of anticipation throughout the year. Besides all of the delicious (and not so nutritious) grub — which is most definitely a highlight of the day — it tends to serve as some wonderful quality time shared over the dining table. While many of us reserve this significant day for family, a trend in recent years has opened up the door to a bonus celebration — and that door leads to friends! Read on to enjoy a few of my tips for a... HERE’S A

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

FOOD & DRINK

You Little Turkey Cheeseball

PLACE SETTING NAME CARDS Whether how casual or formal you and your crew choose to be, don’t shut down the idea of name cards just yet! Even if you pass on dusting off your finest china, this is a guaranteed way to elevate any table setting. The options are truly endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and play around with what fits your style. I enjoy adding a pop of sparkle when I can. I found these leaves at Hobby Lobby that were already dusted with a gold shimmer. There were other variations, too, so if you’d prefer a different color from the fall pallet or a less glamorous finish, go for it! Now, to incorporate the name. I decided to go with black chalkboard paper that I could write on with a white chalk marker. I found some smaller pre-cut pieces (also at Hobby Lobby) that already had some embellishments carved out. Then I cut them down a little bit more to avoid covering up too much of the leaf. Again, depending on your vision, brown craft paper or white cardstock could be suitable alternatives if the black doesn’t match well or offers too much of a contrast. You could also experiment with cutting out different outlines, perhaps just a plain rectangle or even a teardrop shape. Once I nailed down the tag itself, I filled in my name and poked a hole on the far left end using the tip of my scissors (a hole puncher would work too, of course, if you need a larger opening). I lean toward twine for many of my crafts since it’s such a universal binder that never lets me down, but ribbon or yarn would do the trick, too! I pulled the twine through the hole and looped it around the stem of the leaf, tying a bow to finish it off. If you find that the tag is not lying flat enough against the leaf, feel free to anchor it down with some tape or glue. That should help hold it in place and won’t be noticeable as long as it’s sealed on the back of the tag. Voila!

DON’T BE AFRAID TO GET CREATIVE AND PLAY AROUND WITH WHAT FITS YOUR STYLE. I ENJOY ADDING A POP OF SPARKLE WHEN I CAN.

Following their sniffers into the kitchen, we all know guests are eager to get their chompers warmed up while waiting for the main course. This is where a cheese ball appetizer becomes a crowd pleaser for parties or gatherings. However, since Friendsgiving is a special and annual occasion, take it a step further by turning your standard cheese ball into a TURKEY. Not only a light, delectable snack, your first course of the evening has now turned into an impressive and oh so festive star of the table. Just don’t forget to leave him a seat!

Ingredients: Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball: • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature • 1 cup white sharp cheddar cheese, shredded • 1 cup dried cranberries, chopped and divided in half • 1 cup pecans, chopped and divided in half • ¼ cup chives, chopped and divided in half • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• Ritz crackers for dipping

Turkey:

• Feathers: pretzel sticks

• Eyes: candied eyes

• Nose: candy corn

• Neck: Slim Jim

Directions: In a large bowl, beat together cream cheese, cheddar cheese, ½ cup of pecans, ½ cup of cranberries, 2 tablespoons of chives, and garlic powder. Place mixture in the center of a large piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper. Cover completely with the wrap or paper while forming it into a ball shape. Refrigerate until ready to serve. Just before serving, combine the remaining ½ cup of pecans, ½ cup of cranberries, and 2 tablespoons of chives on a flat surface or cutting board. Unwrap the cheese ball and roll into the cranberry-pecan mixture until completely covered. Transfer to serving plate. Add the pretzel sticks, Slim Jim, candied eyes, and candy corn to bring your turkey to life. Spread crackers around the turkey for dipping and ENJOY!

NOW BOOKING

HOLIDAY PA RTIES StillFire Brewing is an ideal venue for corporate holiday parties, showers, weddings or an intimate gathering with friends. We can accommodate parties as small as 25 people to large gatherings up to 250.

Email events@stillfirebrewing.com

FOOD & DRINK

*PRO TIP: Looking for ways to transform those leftovers into a different meal? One of my favorite hacks involves leftover dressing (or “stuffing” if you’re not from the South… I’ll try to forgive you for that). Just cut strips of uncooked bacon in half, add about a tablespoon of dressing to one end, roll the bacon (keeping the dressing contents in the inside) and then stick a toothpick all the way through to keep it from unrolling. Arrange on a sheet pan and bake at 400 degrees until the bacon begins to crisp, about 20 minutes. A bite-sized explosion that won’t disappoint!

THANKFULNESS ACTIVITY  Taking turns around the room stating what you’re thankful for is a tradition as old as time. But, since Friendsgiving is a twist on your typical turkey day, I suggest putting a spin on that activity, too. You might not have paid much attention to the small orange pumpkin positioned to the left of the plate in my example photo... That cute little accessory not only exists as a decorative accent piece, but doubles as a thankfulness activity to introduce to your friends! This particular pumpkin was plastic and also came from Hobby Lobby (seriously, what doesn’t that place have?), but you could even go with real pumpkins from your local patch or grocery store. You’ll want one for each person, placed next to their designated spot at the table so everyone knows whose pumpkin is whose, along with a black Sharpie. Once the entire party is present, have them stand around the table in front of a seat that is NOT their own. Then, let them use the Sharpie to write on that pumpkin in honor of who it belongs to. For example, I walk up to the table in front of Alicia’s place setting and pumpkin. I’m going to write on her pumpkin one word or phrase that I’m thankful for within our friendship. This word or phrase could be something that you appreciate about that person - their integrity, humor, positivity, dependability, etc. Anything that comes to mind! Everyone will then rotate around the table until they’ve all had a chance to write on everyone else’s pumpkin. I adore this idea since it’s an impactful way to spread gratitude and kindness - plus, the group walks away with a cherished party favor! ■

HAPPY THANKSGIVING - Natalie 65

THE LATEST FROM IN AND AROUND SUWANEE

Student Organizes Parent-Child Tennis Charity Fundraiser 14-YEAR old Dilan Shingadia, freshman at North Gwinnett High School, recently organized a parent-child tennis round robin fundraiser. The event, held August 9 in Edinburgh subdivision in Suwanee, featured a morning of back-to-school tennis fun for a cause. Kids of all levels of play, from 10-year-old beginners to high school varsity players, partnered with their parents and siblings and Julie & Dilan Shingadia came together to increase allergy awareness and raise money for Food Allergy Research & Awareness (FARE). All money raised was donated to FARE and will be used to create safe treat boxes for kindergarten students with food allergies at Riverside Elementary School. Dilan, a life-long sufferer of severe food allergies, understands the difficulties faced by school-aged children struggling to deal with their allergies and the anxiety associated with them. As an avid tennis player, he hoped to combine his love for tennis with his desire to support research toward a cure, and help educate his community about how impactful and difficult life with severe food allergies can be. The event, which consisted of 40-plus players, three to five matches per partners, trophies, and an enormous breakfast spread including allergy-friendly foods donated by Edinburgh HOA and the community, raised more than $850. Dilan hopes to make the fundraiser an annual tradition, and one day create his own charity servicing children with life-threatening food allergies.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

SUWANEE RESIDENTS FIND THEIR NEW HOME AT THE MAVEN Designed to fit the aesthetic and growth plans set for Suwanee, the new apartment homes at The Maven have a spirit that sets them apart, helping residents truly be a part of the neighborhood and keeping them close to the things that make Suwanee so special. Newly built but full of character, the Scandinavianinspired apartments exude spirited minimalism — the perfect place to inspire your creativity, with all the modern features and comforts you crave. Nestled between the serenity of nature and the excitement of Suwanee Town Center, you will be able to connect with both easily. The Maven is also offering more than 17,000 square feet of move-in ready commercial spaces with modern, minimalist design. Whether you’re moving from near or far, The Maven has a perfect space for everyone! The Maven is located at 4255 Suwanee Dam Road in Suwanee. For more information, call 470-437-3074 or visit TheMavenSuwanee.com.

Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful Announces Their 2022 Green Youth Advisory Council

Fine Arts Gallery Artceptions Hosts Grand Opening and artist, Vickie A. McCrary, recently hosted the grand opening of her fine arts gallery and studio on October 23. McCrary paints in the truest sense of Expressionism, which presents the world solely from a subjective perspective, distorting it radically for emotional effect in order to evoke moods or ideas. Famous expressionism art pieces include “The Scream” by Edvard Munch, “The Blue Rider” by Wassily Kandinsky, and “The Large Blue Horses” by Franz Marc. McCrary uses her life experiences to translate and transcend emotions into her art. Her use of bold color and texture is her strongest attribute as an expressionist. “When I paint, I feel as though I am sculpting the canvas with the experiences and feelings that are within me,” McCrary says. McCrary, along with artists Leslie Uttan, Shirley Tyldesley, Betty Juodis, Carol O'Sullivan, and Pam O'Sullivan showcased an array of pieces to the public. Artception is open to the public for viewing and is located at Tannery Row in Buford. 554 W. Main St., Suite 1100. For more information, visit ArtceptionsLLC.com. ARTCEPTIONS OWNER

GWINNETT CLEAN & Beautiful is a Keep America Beautiful affiliate whose mission is "to find long-term solutions to environmental and quality of life issues through individual action." Each year they form a team of promising young leaders who share an interest in keeping the environment and their community cleaner, greener, and more sustainable — they are called the Green Youth Advisory Council (GYAC). The 2022 GYAC class encompasses 21 high school students from Gwinnett County, eleven of which are returning members of the 2021 council. Being inducted into the GYAC means that these students are Gwinnett Clean & Beautiful ambassadors who participate in hands-on community beautification, litter prevention, and recycling. Council members also assist with the design and implementation of environmental programs like Food Waste Warrior, a program that helps find solutions to reduce food waste at several Gwinnett County Public Schools. Members of the Green Youth Advisory Council Class of 2022 include Amay Shah, Ariella Ayenesazan, Arshan Rafiq, Cynthia Bui, Daeun (Ella) Lee, Daniel Jung, Danielle Chun, Diya Lakwani, Emily Laycock, Hannah Cook, John (Jack) Prewitt, Logan Zimmerman, Mary Morris, Miles Simmons, Palice Zimmerman, Samara West, Shivali Singh, Stephanie Ramos, Suraj Chatoth, Tanner Dilworth, and Trevor Spake.

67 25

A Grandmother’s Thank You to Suwanee Police recently moved to Suwanee from Florida just a few months ago in order to be closer to her 3-year-old grandson, James. It was her dream to be able to watch him grow up and be a part of his life. James is a typical boy who loves Spider-Man, firefighters, and is obsessed with police officers! In fact, James says he wants to be a police officer when he grows up. So as any dedicated grandmother would do, Sam reached out to the Suwanee police department to see if she could set up a meeting between James and the local officers. “From the moment I walked into the Suwanee police station, the warmth from the receptionist and the smile with my request to meet the officers was the best experience any child could be given,” Sam says. “The door opened and two female officers in uniform came out to greet James. After a few moments, two male officers also came out to greet James. I cannot tell you the excitement upon his face as he listened to what they had to say.” When one of the officers asked James what police officers do, James enthusiastically answered, “You get the bad guys!” The officer told him, “We not Suwanee Police Officer Ashley Kessler and James only go after the bad guys, but we keep you safe and protect the neighborhood.” Then she taught him the importance of knowing how to dial 911 for help. “The officers in this city of Suwanee are doing a fine job and truly keeping us protected,” Sam says. “But what truly amazes me is their interaction with James and taking time to meet this little boy on his level. He was wide-eyed with sparkles in his eyes as he looked upon the many officers! My heart goes out to all of our police officers here in Suwanee.” SAM BUTERA

A TASTE OF THE GULF COAST’S 30A IN SUWANEE Bar is a Seafood Restaurant and Bar, serving a menu inspired by Gulf Coast cuisine, alongside a list of rotating oysters and other amazing raw dishes and bar items. They combine traditional preparations with local ingredients for dishes that are authentic. With both indoor and outdoor dining rooms, Seaside Oyster Bar is the perfect location for lunch, dinner, large groups or an intimate dinner for two. Seaside Oyster Bar is excited to be part of the Suwanee community, and bring the coast flavors to all of you! Seaside Oyster Bar is located at 3890 Lawrenceville Suwanee Road, Suite 1 - 4, in Suwanee. SeasideOysterBar.com. SEASIDE OYSTER

SUWANEE FOOT AND ANKLE SPECIALISTS PUT SUWANEE’S BEST FOOT FORWARD and Ankle Specialists is the one and only podiatry clinic in Suwanee! Dr. Tally is dedicated to providing the best, most comprehensive foot and ankle care to each and every patient. They strive for a welcoming and personable environment to discuss, treat, and rehab lower extremity conditions including ingrown toenails, heel pain, bunions, hammertoes, arthritis, ankle sprains, tendon strains, flat feet, foot and ankle fractures, diabetic foot care, and much more. Dr. Tally graduated residency from Emory Decatur where he was extensively trained in foot and ankle reconstructive surgery. He loves the city of Suwanee and saw that there wasn’t a podiatrist available to serve this great SUWANEE FOOT

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

community, so he decided to change that by opening his practice to serve the people of Suwanee and the surrounding areas. Dr. Tally’s motto is “You don’t realize how many steps you take in a day until each step hurts,” and believes a person’s mobility is the key to a happy, active life. Suwanee Foot and Ankle Specialists is conveniently located at The Plaza at Suwanee Station at 1300 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Suite 4105. in Suwanee and is accepting new patients daily. For an appointment call 470-589-1204 or visit SuwaneePodiatry.com.

U P C O M I N G

The City of Suwanee is finishing the event year strong with

seasonal events designed to get you into the

holiday spirit You’d better watch out, and you’d better not cry –

Santa Claus is coming to Town (Center)! Join us on Friday, December 3 at 6:30 pm for our annual Jolly Holly Day celebration. Santa Claus will magically arrive to meet with children and families. Parents, be sure to bring cameras or phones to snap your own photos! Kids: Don’t forget your wish lists! After lighting the Town Center tree and taking photos with all of the good little boys and girls, Santa will return to the North Pole to prepare for his Christmas night journey.

Suwanee Events NOVEMBER

NOVEMBER

@ NOON

07 @ 10AM

Suwanee Wine Fest

Suwanee Classic Car Show

NOVEMBER

@ 6PM

@ 8AM

06 09

Motul Petit Le Mans Kick-Off Party

Walk to End Alzheimer’s

DECEMBER

@ 6:30PM

@ 9AM

Jolly Holly Day

Run Run Rudolph 5K

4 83

THE BUZZ

Greater Atlanta Christian School Students Raise Funds to Start School in Africa GREATER ATLANTA Christian School

seniors Marilee Karinshak, 17, of Lawrenceville, and Molly Pritchard, 17, of Duluth, raised funds for three years to help open the Hale Academy in Cameroon, Africa, which officially opened its doors on August 23, 2021. It all started several years ago when Marilee and Molly, soccer players with the Atlanta Fire United Soccer Club, and students at Greater Atlanta Christian School, joined Nadine Kezebou’s soccer team. Coach Nadine’s path to America began when she was selected to play soccer for the Cameroonian National Team. This decision ultimately led her to play professionally before attending Georgia State University. Nadine overcame poverty and many challenges on her inspirational journey. Looking to give back to her homeland, Coach Nadine formed the Nadine Foundation, a nonprofit to help children access education, healthcare services, and humanitarian aid. Specifically, the Nadine Foundation undertook efforts to build a school in Mfou, Cameroon,

to provide free education to children who would otherwise not be able to attend school. Marilee, Molly, and their teammates were inspired by Coach Nadine’s story of overcoming poverty and participated in numerous fundraising activities to help build the school. Finally, years of hard work paid off as Hale Academy officially opened its doors to students on August 23, 2021. When asked about her efforts and the school opening, Marilee said, “I am honored and humbled to be a part of this important work and help Coach Nadine make this school a reality. Education is critically important for a better life, and Hale Academy will impact lives for generations to come.” Keeping with its foundation, soccer is a large part of Hale Academy. And Marilee and Molly have donated uniforms and soccer cleats to the school. Additionally, the students have plans to continue their fundraising efforts to provide more resources to the school, such as computers, books, and other enrichment.

Duluth’s Notre Dame Academy Offers a FaithDriven Mission and Rigorous IB Curriculum NOTRE DAME Academy is Georgia’s only

Kindergarten through 12th grade Marist Catholic International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Founded in 2005, they believe in the philosophy and mission of knowing and loving each child, which is

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

possible because of the individualized, world class instruction they offer. At Notre Dame Academy, it is not a rarity that the students are known by name not only by his or her teachers but by the principal and faculty members of the entire

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

school. As part of their inclusive mission, they are also proud of their school-wide 46% diversity rate and their learning support program that serves students with learning differences. The students feel nourished academically, spiritually, and emotionally to a level that’s only possible in a smaller environment. Notre Dame Academy hosts a faculty and staff who hold advanced degrees to best support and develop their students. In 2020, 100 percent of their IB candidates earned an IB diploma. To accompany their rigorous academics, they have more than 20 athletic teams and a fine arts program that hold a multitude of championships. With their faith-driven mission, rigorous IB curriculum, and small class sizes, they offer an experience you cannot find anywhere else. Learn about the benefits of a Marist Catholic International Baccalaureate education today. For more information, visit NDAcademy.org.

GIVING TUESDAY GIVINGTUESDAY was created

in 2012 with the idea to create a day that encourages people to do good. Since its inception at the Belfer Center for Innovation & Social Impact in New York that year, GivingTuesday has grown into an independent nonprofit and global movement that inspires hundreds of millions of people to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity. For us here in Georgia, GAgives is the local initiative for GivingTuesday and is led by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits. Taking place on GivingTuesday, November 30, it’s the biggest day of generosity in our state with the aim to continue celebrating Georgia’s generous spirit. Last year, giving for GAgives totaled more than $24 million and benefited thousands of Georgia’s change-making nonprofits, setting new records for state generosity. GivingTuesday and GAgives officially take place on November 30, but beginning November 1st, the public will be able to log on to GAgives. org for early giving and find a local favorite cause and make a donation. Local organizations that are near and dear to our heart include Hope Thru Soap, Suwanee Performing Arts, Aurora Theatre, Suwanee Arts Center, All For Lunch, Hi-Hope Service Center, Special Needs School of Gwinnett, Annandale Village, and Friends U Need Club, among many other very important organizations in our community. To learn more about GAgives or to see a full list of organizations you can donate to, visit GAgives.com

THE BUZZ

North Gwinnett Girl Up Organizes Local Homecoming Dress Drive ACCORDING TO its website, Girl Up is a

leadership development program that “inspires, convenes, trains and connects girls globally, helping to position them as leaders and changemakers.” Girl Up was founded by the U.N. Foundation in 2010 as an initiative to help support U.N. agencies that focus on adolescent girls, and the North Gwinnett Girl Up chapter started in 2017. Last spring, North Gwinnett Girl Up officers, including President Marin Shappert, Vice President Sophia Lee, Secretary Adduni Noibi, and Historian Maggie Downs, were thinking about ways they could give back to their community. They decided to host a homecoming dress drive for girls who would otherwise not be able to afford dresses. They began campaigning for donations at North Gwinnett High School and reached out to Heather Holbrook for help. Holbrook runs the local nonprofit Do Something Incredible, whose primary mission is to connect volunteers, particularly youth volunteers, with relevant volunteer opportunities. As word spread, other local charities, including Hope Thru Soap and the North Gwinnett Co-Op, got involved. Local business people also supported the effort. In the end, more than 800 dresses were donated! Two free shopping events were hosted and more than 75 girls were able to

get dresses. Because the response was so overwhelming, free prom shopping events are also being planned. Through giving back, the members of North Gwinnett Girl Up learned the power of harnessing the local community to drive positive change.

GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY’S SUNDAYS IN SUWANEE SERIES THE GWINNETT County Public Library is excited to announce the return of its Sundays in Suwanee Series kicking off in November. The series hosts author talks at the library’s Suwanee Branch, and the first two authors on deck are Mike Glenn and Cloud Conrad. Mike Glenn is an author and motivational speaker who will be promoting his book My Next Shot Goes In, which encourages readers to adopt the “10 Sacred Characteristics of NBA Players” and to embrace these traits to help enhance their lives. Glenn will appear at the Suwanee Branch Library Cloud Conrad on Sunday, Nov. 7 at 3 p.m. Then, on Sunday, Nov. 21, Certified Dementia Caregiver Trainer and author Cloud Conrad will appear at the Suwanee Branch Library at 3 p.m. Conrad will share information and ideas from her dementia Mike Glenn caregiver manual, The Dementia Field Guide — Navigate the Caregiver’s Journey with Confidence. The Suwanee branch library is located at 361 Main St. in Suwanee. For more information about the Gwinnett Public Library’s Sundays in Suwanee Series and other author events, visit GwinnettPL.org/AdultServices.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

MATT HYATT Founder and CEO, Rocket IT

Rocket IT’s Matt Hyatt debunks the notion that I.T. people are mostly nerdy and impersonal. Matt has a lot of passion for people, business, and his community. It was awesome to spend time with him hearing about what matters most. Interview and Photo by Julie Perdue

CREATING CLOSER community is a big part of what we do here at Suwanee Magazine. That’s why we’re proud to bring you The Faces of Suwanee. Suwanee is a great community with great people. We’ll be featuring conversations we have with members of our community as a way of telling the story of Suwanee, one smiling face at a time. The Faces of Suwanee shines a light on the people who live and work here. You can read all of the interviews at TheFacesofSuwanee.com, and even nominate someone you think should be featured on the website. Be sure to follow Suwanee Magazine’s Facebook page where we’ll be sharing new Faces of Suwanee interviews weekly.

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

WHAT INSPIRED YOU OR LED YOU TO YOUR CURRENT CAREER? I remember as a

child riding in the school bus and passing various businesses wondering what kind of business I wanted to one day own. I was into my bicycle, so thought I might want to open a bike shop, and I also loved photography. At some point, I discovered computers early on and I was instantly fascinated by them. I remember playing one of the first consumer video games, Pong. I became interested in business and the idea of entrepreneurship so everything that I did as a young man pointed to that. I found that the traditional path of formal training in school was not the right path for me because I am an experiential learner, needing to do and try things, to figure out what I like, what I was good at, and how things are done. I worked for various companies in different roles and when I was laid off from my last bona fide job, I started this business. I was 25 years old. As the business began to grow and I needed to hire people, I asked myself why I was doing what I was doing. It is not easy to run your own business because every problem is your problem and at times, it is lonely. I began to write down the reasons I had, from early on, and realized that the times I felt most successful and most

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

fulfilled and happy was when I felt like I had made a difference in someone else’s life. In the early 1990s, I worked in a shop selling computers. This was before most homes and businesses had computers. Software piracy was rampant. A customer bought a computer from me and wanted me to install Microsoft Office software for free. When I refused to do it, he got angry. We talked about why I couldn’t do that for him because it was wrong and it was stealing. He left in a huff. Weeks later I got a card in the mail from him, thanking me for my perspective and said that I had really made him think. I felt good that even in a small way, I helped him think differently about something in a positive way. I realized how this sort of thing gave me a real high, so this became our stated purpose: Help People Thrive. It is our purpose and it means to love your neighbor. How can I help you be successful and bring you to your highest possible good? I try to do this with every person that I encounter and we want to attract people to our team who are wired the same way. I think this is the meaning of life! I believe that everyone is wired this way and we just need to unpack it. Being intentional about being a positive influence in other people’s

THE BUZZ

IF YOU COULD TRAVEL ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD RIGHT NOW, WHERE WOULD IT BE AND WHY? Amsterdam is one of my favorite places in the world. It is beautiful. The architecture is amazing and old, and the buildings are tall and skinny and lean one way or another. We love the canals, galleries, shops and restaurants. Most people there are fit, tall and good looking. Bicycles are the preferred method of transportation. It takes some getting used to the traffic with bicycles everywhere.

WHAT IS THE FIRST MOVIE YOU REMEMBER SEEING IN A THEATER?

We didn’t get to go to the movies very often, but I remember seeing Song of the South and Star Wars in the theater. lives is powerful. If we could all go through our lives asking ourselves how we can help others, what a great place this world would be! I fail all the time but try to get back on track being the best version of myself. We try to build on this in our organization and be intentional.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANT IN SUWANEE AND WHAT DO YOU LOVE THERE? We like La Belle Vie.

Maureen and I were the very first people to order a cocktail there when we learned that they had just received their liquor license.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED OR LIVED IN SUWANEE? We’ve lived here

since 2012, but we were admirers of Suwanee long before that. I have been in Gwinnett for 29 years. When I left home, I wanted to live in Atlanta because it is close to the mountains where my grandparents lived and it was close enough to home (Tampa) that I could hitchhike home if things didn’t work out.

WHAT HAS KEPT YOU HERE? I thought I would only be here for a couple of years but we

love living in Georgia. I love the four seasons and I like that we have an international airport in Atlanta where we can fly to almost anywhere in the world. We have thought about living somewhere else in Georgia, but my business is here as well as our friends. We are quite content to be based here and visit other places. Suwanee has public art, dining and outdoor activities like the trails for walking, running or bicycling. We are getting some nice restaurants now, too.

HOW BIG IS YOUR FAMILY?

My wife, Maureen, and two adult children, Indy and Zachary. Indy attends UGA in Athens and Zack is a very successful musician and producer who currently lives in New York City. His stage name is “Peachy.” He travels the world and has learned to speak several languages. Maureen and I recently adopted two puppies — sisters Daisy and Willow — to keep us company at home.

WHO IS THE MOST INTERESTING PERSON YOU’VE MET IN SUWANEE? There are a

lot of interesting people in Suwanee. Nick Masino is high on the list. His wife, Suzanne, is also super interesting. Jeff Spence is another.

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A CROWD OF PEOPLE? There is no

greater satisfaction in life than making a positive impact on the lives of others.

WHAT IS SOMETHING ON YOUR BUCKET LIST? I would love to see Alaska someday.

IF YOU COULD TAKE ANYONE TO LUNCH (DEAD OR ALIVE) WHO WOULD THAT BE AND WHERE WOULD YOU GO? My grandpa, who

has passed. He was a very simple guy and he would enjoy a picnic table on the side of the road.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC? NAME THREE BANDS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE. I am not really big into

music. I realize that there is a difference in the way I hear music and how my wife hears music. She hears the lyrics and I seem to focus on the beat and the sound. I love Tom T. Hall and Peter, Paul and Mary, Simon and Garfunkel, and the Beach Boys. I used to play “Ring of Fire” loud on my Bluetooth speaker early on Saturday mornings to get the kids out of bed! ■

For F more of this and previous The Faces Of Suwanee interviews, go to

TheFacesOfSuwanee.com 79

S U G A R

H I L L

CityB

CityBuzz

THE SUGAR HILL G

Amid decades of remark Hill remains committed to space and new ways to co The Sugar Hill Greenway creates a trail network de cyclists, joggers, and other completed, the paved path throughout our city includ Park, and Sugar Hill Elem

Summer in the Sweet City are The Holidays

Sweet in Sugar Hill

ummer is nearly here. The days are longer, school is out, the sun is shining, and the warm weather is inviting you to get outside and make the most out of your summer months in the sweet city! Sugar Hill may be a growing city, but we know that places to play are just as important as places to live and work.

THE ONLY THING SWEETER THAN A CUP OF HOT COCOA ARE THE HOLIDAYS IN “THE SWEET CITY” OF SUGAR HILL. LET THE MAGIC BEGIN!

GARY PIRKLE PARK

TREAT YOURSELF TO $2 TUESDAYS AT THE EAGLE THEATRE

Gary Pirkle Park, located just off Suwanee Dam Road, offers plenty of space for play and programming. Pirkle Park is home to the largest synthetic turf fields in the Southeast well asbest a shaded playground, two miles Oneasof the deals going, period! $2 Tuesdays at the Eagle of paved and lighted walking trails, and the Sugar Hill Theatre continue through the holiday season in Sugar Hill. With Community Garden.

its stylish art deco design, plush seats, and tasty concessions, seeing a flick on the bigGOLF screenCLUB at the Eagle is good old-fashioned fun and THE SUGAR HILL a cinematic experience for all Choose from two showings: Just down the street, The Sugar Hill Golfages. Club has a.m. andreputation 6:30 p.m.as For tickets, visit EagleatSugarHill.com earned10:30 an established one of the most beautiful, and challenging, public in the North Will Smith and Tommy November 9, see Mencourses in Black starring Georgia foothills. With somepopular of the most spectacular Lee Jones. In this sci-fi adventure that received 92% on golfing vistas, the unique course offers plenty of daily Rotten Tomatoes, a police officer joins a secret organization that tee times as well as regular tournaments and a club SUGAR HILL SPLASH PARK polices and monitors extraterrestrial interactions on Earth. (PG-13) house available for special events. Kids can cool off and splash around at the Sugar December 14, see The Muppet Christmas Carol. Michael Caine Hill Splash Park in the heart of Sugar Hill. The exciting and the Muppets star in this Walt Disney holiday family that free fun for all ages and is open water comedy feature offers seasonally from late spring to early fall. Located retells the classic Dickens tale. An old and bitter miser receives behind visits by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present anddirectly Future. (G) City Hall, the Splash Park offers family-

friendly fun with dancing water fountains and lights as well as plenty of local restaurants within a five-minute walk. Grab something to go or enjoy your own treats at shaded picnic tables or soak up the sun on the plaza surrounding the fountain.

DONATE A TOY FOR FREE ADMISSION TO THE MUPPET CHRISTMAS CAROL

Special thanks to the North Gwinnett Co-Op for hosting its annual “Susan Roebuck Santa Shop Day” to provide toys and gifts to children of families in need. Drop-off a toy or gift at Sugar Hill’s City Hall or bring it with you to the Muppet Christmas Carol movie on December 14 to receive free admission. To see the Co-Op’s requested toys/gifts list, particularly for teens, visit NorthGwinnettCoop.org.

THE PLAYERS GUILD PRESENTS THE TRIAL OF EBENEZER SCROOGE AT THE EAGLE THEATRE

Sugar Hill’s outstanding regional performing arts troupe returns with the trial of the century at the dazzling Eagle Theatre November 12-21. one year after Suwanee Magazine DEC 19story begins /CityofSugarHill I suwaneemagazine.com I NOV /The Ebenezer Scrooge’s miraculous transformation. Back to his old ways, the miser is suing Jacob Marley and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present and Future for breaking and entering, kidnapping, slander, pain and suffering, attempted murder, and the intentional infliction of emotional distress. Show times are Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. with Sunday matinees at 3 p.m. For tickets, visit EagleatSugarHill.com

80 74

SuwaneeMagazine Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com NOVEMBER / APR 21/ DECEMBER 2021 I I Suwanee I suwaneemagazine.com I I MAR

Sugar Hill is the place to be this holiday season, from events at The Eagle Theatre and The Bowl to ice skating at their beloved rink. There are also plenty of shops perfect for your holiday shopping.

@CityofSugarHill

@CityofSugarHill_

Suwanee Magazine _lliHraguSsuwaneemagazine.com foytiC@

SHOP SMALL ON SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 27

From ice cream cones, nachos, craft cocktails and brunch to clothing, handmade items, and accessories, many wonderful eateries and shops call downtown Sugar Hill home. After all, it’s their special and unique offerings that make the charming city thrive. So, make sure to come out, shop small and support these local businesses on this national holiday the first Saturday after Thanksgiving.

GIVE YOURSELF THE GIFT OF MUSIC WITH TICKETS TO SUGAR HILL LIVE ON STAGE

Two legendary Southern rock bands are stopping by the City of Sugar Hill. Hear the explosive power of 38 Special at The Bowl on November 6. Then, don’t miss The Outlaws, one of the best and loved bands of the genre on December 1 at the Eagle Theatre. For tickets and more information, visit CityofSugarHill.com.

CELEBRATE THE SEASON AT THE CITY’S ANNUAL HOLIDAY CELEBRATION Don’t miss this magical annual holiday gathering under the stars at the Dawn P. Gober Community Plaza and The Bowl on December 4, from 5-9 p.m. Get free photos with Santa. Shop the holiday market. Ice skate outdoors in a rink as big as the one at Rockefeller Center! Enjoy performances by the Broad Street Concert Band, Players Guild at Sugar Hill, and On The Stage Theatre Alliance. For more information, go to CityofSugarHill.com.

HAVE A BERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS AT SUGAR HILL LIVE ON STAGE

Give a warm welcome to a popular holiday performer returning to Sugar Hill for the second time! The “2021 Christmas with John Berry, The Silver Anniversary Tour” has kicked off and the Eagle Theatre is excited to be a tour stop on December 16. Known for his seasonal fan-favorite holiday performances filled with traditional Christmas songs, come hear John Berry sing his most requested hit songs including his incredible version of “O Holy Night,” plus a few of his childhood stories sprinkled in. The legendary Grammy Award-winning star continues to celebrate more than 40 years as a country music performer with mega hits such as “Your Love Amazes Me,” “Standing on the Edge of Goodbye,” and “She’s Taken a Shine.” For more information or to purchase tickets, visit EagleatSugarHill.com. ■

 To learn more, visit CityofSugarHill.com and keep an eye on their social media for updates.

ON THE SCENE

SBA September Meeting Wednesday, Sept. 8th CLOUDLAND WINERY

PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE, ANGELA VEUGELER

SBA October Meeting

Wednesday, Oct. 13th ROCKET IT

PHOTOS BY JULIE PERDUE, CHRIS SINSON

Suwanee Fest

September 18th-19th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY KARL LAMB

Spooky Spirits Saturday, Oct. 16th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY GARY DOWD and JAYA LORD

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

Taste of BBQ

Saturday, October 9th TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS BY BILLY WRIGHT

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

I N - P E R S O N T E A C H I N G • P R E - S C H O O L T H R O U G H 12 T H G R A D E

TOP-RATED EDUCATION

in a Safe, Christian Environment Sugar Hill Christian Academy features the highest quality of education in a safe, Christian environment. Our faculty, staff, and administration are dedicated to providing your student with a learning environment that is ranked in the top percentages nationally - ensuring your child is set up for success in and out of the classroom.

SHCA is a great school! Academics are amazing and teachers work very hard to ensure each student achieves their full potential and then some. It provides a safe, friendly Christian environment where all students are accepted. - SHCA Middle School Student

CALL TO SCHEDULE A TOUR

678.745.4121 SugarHillChristian.org 4600 Nelson Brogdon Blvd. Sugar Hill, GA 30518

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

NOVEMBER

MOSUL PETIT LE MANS KICKOFF PARTY

SUWANEE WINTER FARMERS MARKET 9am

Town Center Park

Second Saturday of the month through April 2020

6pm

Town Center Park

For more information visit roadatlanta.com

SUWANEE WINE FEST

1-4:30pm

Town Center Park

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

SUGAR HILL ICE RINK OPENS Hours vary

City of Sugar Hill

For more information visit haidrink.com.

Town Center Park

GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS thru THANKSGIVING BREAK 26th

NOTRE DAME ACADEMY OPEN HOUSE 1-3pm 4635 River Green Parkway, Duluth For more information, visit ndacademy.org.

SUWANEE CLASSIC CAR SHOW

10am

LICENSE TO CHILL SNOW ISLAND AND thru LAKESIDE LIGHTS Feb. 27 SPECTACULAR

Town Center Park

For more information visit ngaa4arts.com.

8am

For more information visit act.alz.org.

11 7

WALK TO END ALZHEIMER’S

Margaritaville at Lanier Islands

Entrance to Lakeside Lights Spectacular begins at $9.99. Tickets to License to Chill begin at $39.99.

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS TIME ENDS

Suwanee Magazine

suwaneemagazine.com

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2021

25 26 26

thru Dec. 23

THANKSGIVING DAY BLACK FRIDAY CHRISTMAS CANTEEN 2021 Times vary

Aurora Theatre

Purchase tickets at auroratheatre.com.

DECEMBER

JOLLY HOLLY DAY 6:30-9:30pm

Town Center Park

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

thru Dec. 19 GWINNETT BALLET THEATRE'S 40TH ANNIVERSARY: THE NUTCRACKER 2pm and 7pm

The Gas South District Theatre Tickets available at gwinnettballet.org.

4 4& 5 11& 12 21

HAPPY FEAT’S RUN RUN RUDOLPH 5K 9am

Town Center Park

More information at happyfeat.org.

BEST OF THE NUTCRACKER Times vary

Eagle Theatre in Sugar Hill More information at suwaneeperforms.org.

NUTCRACKER TEA PARTY 3pm

Mainstreet Playhouse 341 Main St. in Suwanee More information a suwaneeacademy.com.

GWINNETT COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS thru WINTER BREAK Jan. 6

25 31

CHRISTMAS DAY NEW YEAR'S EVE

HI T W

SF ER R

YR D. PE

Whole Foods

OLD PEA

E C H TR

Coolray Field

ELLINGTON

LVD

Publix

LIT

120

Rock Springs Park

EE AN W

TH H WY

y wa

U E-S VIL L

Kroger

Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

DU LU

FER RY

Mall of Georgia

N CE

Shorty Howell Park

Chattahoochee Recreation Area

985

George Pierce Park

Assi Market

Bunten Road Park

120

Ingles

ILL

Duluth Town Center

wa n Su

Peachtree Ridge Park

Y W PK AF LO AR G

20 OO DW AR D

LAWR E

Duluth

PLE

SUWANEE

Sprouts

Target

MILLCROFT

Suwanee Town Center

Suwanee Creek Park

A RD. ABAM AL OLD

TEL

Regal Cinemas Medlock Bridge

D HW BUFOR

GREYSOLON

Suwanee

Publix

a Ch

D KR EE CR

GE R

COMING SOON

Kroger

317

HARVEST ver Ri PARK e h e c o o h tta

141

Johns Creek

V BL

NN GI

A ST

LLS

GE RD .

re e

RI D GE LOCK B

M ED

ER D

ANTA R D O L D A TL

O OK

GE RD

SB RI D

LEV

SUWANEE TOWNSHIP

National Park

Emory Johns Creek Hospital

Buford

ILL M

WO OD R

Sims Lake Park Chattahoochee River

SARGENT R D.

D AM EE

K WY GS P

IN SPR EL

RD.

AN W

N TL A DA

IS F ERRY

EHE

ide l of etta

Trader Joe’s Barnes & Noble HomeGoods

Settles Bridge Park

Mc N

BO TT

The Forum

Mathis Airport

HW Y

BU FO RD

r een

141

ND A

H LP

G UR

S ES

D LL R

120

Jones Bridge Park

I EM

W AN

. RD GE RI D SB NE O J

RE R D AM O

I LO

PI N E G RO VE RD

GE R

S YC

RD BRID

Sugar Hill Golf Course Y

D ND R

HI LL RD

Y PK W

LA FAR

WEB B

LI T

tta

e nnis

E DER M E R IN W

400

ARD PKWY DW WIN

MELO DY M IZE R

Sharon Springs Park

UN I ON

BUF

H I L L RD

JAMES HILL RD

Chattahoochee River National Park

RD H I LO SH

I ON

M MEL

PEAC HTREE PKWY

AX R D LI N UN

DAVE S CR EE K D R

TRA

Y HW

AN EY

The Avenues Forsyth

Infinite Energy Center

Life Time Fitness Sugarloaf Mills

OUR SUWANEE COMMUNITIES CHOA Urgent Care

Super H Mart

Gwinnett Place Mall

With multiple communities located throughout the city The Providence Group is Suwanee’s premier homebuilder. Our quality-crafted, low maintenance neighborhoods offer intelligently designed townhomes, and single-family homes suitable for all life stages. Visit us today and let us show you how to Make Space For Life in your new Providence Group home. Visit TheProvidenceGroup.com

Gwinnett County Airport

LA Fitness

UNIVERSI

TY PARKW AY

Gwinnett Technical College

120

124

Northside ELLINGTON 316 Hospital Publix Gwinnett Atlanta TownhomesSwimFrom the $400s • Single Family From the $500s Lawrenceville 3213 Suwanee Creek Road, Suwanee

GREYSOLON Townhomes From the $400s | 2370 Chattahoochee Drive, Duluth HARVEST PARK Townhomes From the $400s • Single Family From the $500s 752 White Street, Suwanee SUWANEE TOWNESHIP Townhomes From the $400s | 4485 Tench Road, Suwanee MILLCROFT – COMING SOON Master-Planned, Gated Community of Townhomes and Single Family | 765 Woodward Mill Rd., Buford

470.509.9932 TheProvidenceGroup.com

No u

e! ov

THE h s i r

Community Y

L CAL this Holiday Season

The City of Suwanee is challenging its citizens to

put their money where their fork is!

Eat at City of Suwanee restaurants and breweries from December 1 through January 31, 2021 and save your receipts. Once you have accumulated $100 worth of food, beverage, or even gift card receipts, bring them to the Suwanee Welcome Center and trade them in for your very own 2022 Mr. Eggwards calendar! Support the local economy and earn 12 months of grins from

the cutest little guy around!

Suwanee Welcome Center 3930 Charleston Market Street Suwanee Town Center

November/December 2021

Articles inside

Business Spotlight Good Landing Recovery

Home for the Holidays

Holiday Spirits

Business Spotlight Vineyard Johns Creek