suwanee magazine july august 2015

Community. Culture. Lifestyle.

A Song Can Change Your Life: HOME BY DARK CONCERT SERIES

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MAY / JUNE 15MAY / JUNE 15

SUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSGIVE THEIR TOP TRANSITION TIPS

SUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORS

RESTAURANTSPOTLIGHT:

SUWANEEPARK

TAVERNBIRDING WITH

WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED

contentsjuly / aug 2015

24 Summer 2 SchoolTop tips from Suwanee supermoms and local educators for making a smooth transition to school this year

18 Birding withWild Birds UnlimitedSuwanee nature store specializesin birding - a multi-generationalhobby for all ages

46 Restaurant Spotlight:Suwanee Park TavernExcellent cuisine with thewarmth and charmof Southern hospitality

60 Home By DarkConcert series features some of the best songwriters in the country performing live

80 WoofstockExclusive pics from thepopular event at TownCenter Park

4 I Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com I JULY / AUG 15

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july / aug 2015

in every issue

create

64 SculpTourOutdoor art exhibit returns65 Broadway in the Park:Chitty Chitty Bang Bang65 Actor’s Edge:Into the Woods66 NGAA Scholaship67 Hans FräbelSeven Sins and Virtues exhibit

learn

68 A New HopeTomorrow's HopeMontessori School

empower

14 SBA News The Adventures of Stanley: Chapter 215 Investment StrategiesBusiness Development Corporations16 Bremen Autowerks German auto repair experts20 Design Notes Color in marketing23 Postal PlusSuwanee print shop celebrates 20 years

citybuzz71 The Buzz76 People & Places86 Calendar08 Editor's Letter

10 Share

4466464

11188 savor50 The GrapevineSummer Sippers52 What's BrewingGeorgia Summer Brews56 Restaurant ListingsBest area dining options

thrive

33 Catering to CowardsSuwanee Dental Care38 Summer HairAIR Salon offers hair tips40 Medical Care forthe NeedyGood Samaritan Health Center gives back 42 Southern SummerTraditionsHot Georgia summers

Matt MitchellRestaurant Manager,

Suwanee ParkTavern

t’s 95 degrees outside, skies are blue, the kids are running through the sprinklers, you’re firing up the BBQ

and making plans for a weekend trip to the beach. In that moment, the last thing we’re ready to think about is going back to school. Not because we don’t love school…but it can be hard to transition

from long, lazy summer days to early mornings, schedules and homework. This is the problem we face every year when it's time to roll out our July/August issue. Gwinnett County goes back to school on Monday, August 10th - but right now we still have a whole month of summer left to savor! And savor it we will! But, it’s also important to start preparing for the school year ahead – and making that process equally fun. On our cover, we captured that concept of transition by photographing one boy, Dallan Elk, standing back-to-back with himself. For this rising 5th grader and member of Actor’s Edge summer camp, it was just as fun to play with the Super Soaker as it was for him to envision going to school. Because for him, back-to-school means back to soccer season! There are a lot of ways to get your children excited for the school year ahead while enjoying these final weeks of summer. Check out our Summer 2 School transition tips from local moms, teachers and experts in education for some fun ideas. The “Southern Summer Traditions” story really illustrates what it’s like to grow up in Georgia, and gave me an even greater appreciation that I live here now. However, the sentimental details were a little bittersweet to read, as it was written by a valued staff member, Aoife Healy, who recently moved to Ireland to shape new memories with family there. But, we know she’ll be back to visit and we can’t wait to hear about her adventures- over a pitcher of sweet tea on the porch.

We’re thankful to welcome back UGA studentand contributing writer/intern, Mackenzie Stephenson in this issue. She gave a warm Suwanee-style welcome to Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori with a story that shares the new school’s mission and goals, as well as a firsthand look at the process of opening a business in our community. You may notice that the Arts section is brimming with stories in this issue. One of my favorites is about the Hans Godo Fräbel glass sculpture exhibit in Suwanee City Hall. He is an internationally-renowned, award-winning, highly-respected artist with work displayed in private and public collections throughout 80 countries worldwide; and an active member of the North Gwinnett Arts Association. Fräbel art collectors include the likes of: Queen Elizabeth II, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan, Margaret Thatcher, Anwar Sadat, Jimmy Carter and Ronald Reagan, to name a few. For the first time ever, Fräbel is displaying his “Seven Sins and Virtues” collection in its entirety - and we have the privilege, as a community, to host this exhibit at Suwanee City Hall through September 1, 2015. Not only is this an enormous honor, but also demonstrates the depth of respect for culture, community and the arts in our humble city. We hope you enjoy the rest of the summer and find the Summer 2 School transition tips helpful!We suggest reading this issue from a hammock or beach blanket, with a glass of cold Georgia beer or chilled wine, mentioned in the “Summer Sipper” and “What’s Brewing” articles.

Rachel PillowManaging Editor

lettera note from our managing editor


On our cover:

Dallan Elk photographed on

June 16th bySTEVE GLASS.

Community. Culture. Lifestyle.

A Song Can Change Your Life: HOME BY DARK CONCERT SERIES

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MAY / JUNE 15MAY / JUNE 15

SUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSGIVE THEIR TOP TRANSITION TIPS

SUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORSSUWANEE SUPERMOMS AND LOCAL EDUCATORS

RESTAURANTSPOTLIGHT:

SUWANEEPARK

TAVERNBIRDING WITH

WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED

Visit suwaneemagazine.com for some great web only articles and frequent updates.

sharecomments about the may / june ‘15 issue

“We have completed four adventures so far this summer:the library for summer kickoff, a beach vacation, playing inthe fountains at Suwanee park, and we even madehomemade pizzas!”

CHARLENE HOLMES (commenting on the article ‘14 Adventures on a Budget’)

“My sons, Felix and Emerson (both 19 months) loved going through the latest issue last night. Thanks for making a magazine the whole family can enjoy!”

KRIS JUSTICE

“Loved the Cutest PupContest! My kids did too!”

CALLIE MCGEE

“Wicket is very excited about winning! He was just at Pooch and Paws on Saturday for a grooming!

He can’t wait to tell all his buddies at the school where he visits and at Canine Country Academy that he won. Thank you for sponsoring this contest!”

SONIA STEWART (Owner of Cutest Pup Contest Winner, Wicket)

“Thank you for the magazine. I always pick up the latest edition at my local GA Fitness Gym on PIB.”

JEREMY KENNEDY

“It’s always primo when Steve Glass is behindthe lens.”

LISA MORRIS (commenting on the May/June 2015 cover)


HOW TO REACH US:Email: [email protected]. Fax: 678-730-0691. Or join the conversation on facebook and twitter. Letters and e-mails should include full contact information. We reserve the right to edit letters for clarity and brevity. All submissions become the property of Veugeler Design Group and will not be returned. Submission constitutes permission to use photos and stories in all media.

“We LOVED the article on Craft Pizza in the latest issue! You made us hungry!”

FACEBOOK COMMENTER

This reader sent a pic from Pensacola, Florida. Wish wewere there too! Send yourphotos or feedback to [email protected].

Where has your copy of

Suwanee Magazine been lately?

ANGELA VEUGELERPresident / Editor-in-Chief

[email protected]

RANDALL VEUGELERVice President and Publisher

RACHEL PILLOWManaging Editor / [email protected]

LAURA CARTERAdvertising Director / [email protected]

Account Executives AOIFE HEALY, MICHELLE FASIG

Creative Director RANDALL VEUGELER

Art Director ERICA ABRAMS

Production Manager LAURA PAYNE

Web Editors WALT WOODEN • ROBERT WRIGHT

Graphic Design APRIL MILLER • SHAY HARBAUGH

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CHRISTINA ZAVLANOS

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Sales JULIE PERDUE

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PUBLISHED BY VEUGELER DESIGN GROUP554 W. Main Street, Suite 200, Buford, GA 30518

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For SUBSCRIPTION INQUIRES or BACK ISSUE

ORDERS, call 678-482-2270.

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Suwanee Magazine is published bi-monthly by Veugeler Design Group. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not

necessarily those of the publisher, editor or Suwanee Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are

lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors

or ommissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. ©2015 Veugeler Design Group. The

editors welcome unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. Please email Rachel Fasig at [email protected].


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empowersuwanee business community news & info.empowerempowersuwanee business community news & info.empowerSBA 14 / INVESTING 15 / BREMEN AUTOWERKS 16 WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED 18 / DESIGN NOTES 20 / POSTAL PLUS 23

Suwanee's Wild Birds Unlimited celebrates 10

years bringing people and nature together

pg. 18

Wild Birds Unlimited owner, Judy Shoop, showing a customer a popular hummingbird feeder

Indigo Bunting

empowerempower20

empowerempower/

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{ BY: Ed Szczesniak / OWNER, GEORGIAN LANDSCAPE DESIGN }

ell – it seems as though our little “Super Hero” has found himself a comfortable home here in Suwanee and he’s made some new friends along the way! Not bad for a guy who just a few short

years ago had to have his parents hang a pork chop around his neck just to have the dog play with him. Seems that those other “Super Heroes and Heroines” at the SBA sort of adopted him as their “SpokesHero” as there was no other role they could find for him, and they thought that someone who enjoyed silky tights just might attract attention around town. (Truth be known that part has sort of attracted some of the wrong kind

of attention and now Chief Jones has had to ask Stanley to leave

the tights at home when wandering around town).

So now Stanley (aka “Suwanee Man”) found himself thrust into the limelight at all sorts of SBA member businesses around town. He’s been seen noshing at Brown Bag Deli, Ippolitos, Marcos, Gulf Coast Grill and

then topping things off at Planet Smoothie!

Feeling somewhat guilty (and a lot fat), he recently

made an appearance at Georgia Fitness – where – after a strenuous 11 minute workout,

he went to the online SBA Member Directory and spent some quality time at Richardson Chiropractic and Suwanee Family Chiropractic trying to get all of his “super” parts back in working order. With most of his parts renewed, our “hero” turned his attention to sprucing up his exterior and headed to Hairllucinations for a sporty new “do” and then on to Salon Greco for the full spa treatment! The folks at the spa didn’t actually give him a treatment – it was more like an estimate, as Stanley appears to be more of a “long term project” than a “day spa” candidate!

We interviewed Stanley at the end of his first week of travels around town and he said that it was “super” to have so many of the kind folks he met at the SBA recognize and welcome him when he visited their establishments. Of course, we also interviewed a few of the business owners where Stanley had dropped in – and there was one universal theme that rang loud and clear from all of them – “Please ask Chief Jones to clarify to Stanley that when asked to 'leave his tights at home,' he meant that Stanley should wear something in 'place' of the tights." We can only hope that the chief has delivered the message! If you would like to meet Stanley and some of his new friends just show up at the next SBA meeting. Just visit their super secret website at Suwanee.org. You may even get to meet Suwaneeman there – tights and all (hopefully)! ■

S U W A N E E B U S I N E S S A L L I A N C E N E W S

THE ADVENTURESOF STANLEY(AKA SUWANEEMAN)

MIS

CHAPTER 2

of attention and now Chief Jones has had to ask Stanley to leave

the tights at home when wandering around town).

“Suwanee Man”) found

then topping things off at Planet Smoothie!

Feeling somewhat guilty (and a lot fat), he recently

made an appearance at Georgia Fitness – where – after a strenuous 11 minute workout,

Pleaseask Chief Jones

to clarify to Stanley that when asked to �leave his tights at

home,� he meant that Stanley should wear something in �place�

of the tights.

Answer: Business Development Corporations or BDCs are a lending alternative to banks. Fortunately businesses can borrow money from these entities and continue to employee Americans, create profits and pay taxes. This is especially important because US banks are currently not lending any significant amounts of money and are failing to perform their most basic social function. According to the Federal Reserve, there is over two trillion dollars of cash sitting in banks – not being lent to people or businesses. Banks are borrowing money from the Fed at nearly zero interest and instead of lending they are buying risk-free treasuries. The dereliction of the banking industry has opened a large opportunity for BDCs to cover parts of the lending void. Created by congressional legislation, these specialty lenders cater to mid-size companies and many times they collateralize most or all of the assets of the borrowing company. This may provide a stronger level of security. These senior secured loans are in a superior position to bonds in the event of a default. If a company were to fail, investors in senior loans are the first to be repaid. In addition to a relatively high level of monthly income, these unique investments also offer a portfolio a true element of diversification. Like all securities, BDCs are not guaranteed and carry varying degrees of risk. Like picking stocks, it is important to choose BDCs based upon their quality. Talk with your trusted advisor to determine if BDCs would be a beneficial addition to your portfolio. ■

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

SEND YOUR INVESTMENT

QUESTIONS TO: SUBMISSIONS@

SUWANEEMAGAZINE.

COM

BY: Bill & Cindi Porter,AILERON INVESTMENT ADVISORS

INVESTMENT

15

What is a Business Development Corporation and should I consider these investments for my portfolio?

empower


The heat of the summer in Georgia can take a toll on your vehicle. The Mercedes & BMW specialists at Bremen Autowerks were kind enough to share some helpful tips on the proper care for your vehicle during the summer months.“Wash your car regularly,” they told us. “And get a wax, which is a service we offer here along with auto repair services.” Washing and waxing your car not only keeps it looking better, but also prevents damage to paint from things like bugs, acid rain and bird droppings. Summer also brings on more road trips – and the best way to be prepared is to

be sure your fluids are checked on a regular basis. “Tire pressure is also really important,” they said, so please be sure to have your tires checked before going on any road trips. Proper inflation will help your tires last longer, improve gas mileage, and can prevent a dangerous blowout which can occur from overinflation. Bremen Autowerks team Jeremy Lewis, Eric Siegrist and Hugo Wilmot opened the shop in November of 2014. The team specializes in German auto repair and urges owners to pay attention to service intervals, “Not just for road trips but

for driving in general,” they advised. Siegrist also stressed that one of the biggest mistakes car

owners can make is trying to fix their own car without proper knowledge of what

they’re doing. “We’ve had people come in and buy parts to fix their cars

only to do it wrong. Then they have us fix it, which only makes the issue more expensive,” he said.

Business Spotlight:

BREMENAUTOWERKSNew Suwanee Mercedes and BMW auto repair shop drives customers away from Buckhead and into Suwanee!

{ BY: Mackenzie Stephenson }

for driving in general,” they advised. Siegrist also stressed that one of the biggest mistakes car

owners can make is trying to fix their own car without proper knowledge of what

they’re doing. “We’ve had people come in and buy parts to fix their cars

only to do it wrong. Then they have us fix it, which only makes the issue more expensive,” he said.

We invite anyone to come in

anytime and we’ll even offer you a free service diagnosis. We

enjoy cars and we want people

to be able to enjoy their own

cars too!- Jeremy Lewis,

Owner, Bremen Autowerks

empower

17

They remind people to pay attention to the indicator lights on their dashboard. If a warning light comes on, “it’s telling you something is wrong,” Lewis said. Sometimes people will ignore it or procrastinate looking into why it’s on. But, it was designed to warn drivers of an issue before further damage is caused to the car. Bremen Autowerks specializes in Mercedes and BMW auto repair, but their expertise and service capabilities extend to almost all car brands. With a combined experience of over 20 years in auto repair, they are equipped to help with any issues your car may face: from fixing your keys to replacing an engine. At Bremen Autowerks, they only use genuine, factory-reliable parts for repair, but are able to offer a price point much lower than dealer rates. “We truly are the dealer alternative,” Siegrist said. Many dealers employ mechanics fresh out of school, but the team at Bremen are confident that their years of professional, industry experience can guarantee better quality work, a more affordable rate, and the same parts a dealer service shop uses. They have many clients from Mercedes of Buckhead that are referred to Bremen Autowerks because of their cost-efficient, factory-certified service. “We focus on quality and fixing and correct diagnosis every time,” they said.

The Bremen team is committed to building trust and genuine relationships with their customers, as well as being involved in the Suwanee community: one way they do this is by hosting cookouts for shop neighbors and customers. “We invite anyone to come in anytime and we’ll even offer you a free service diagnosis,” Lewis informed us, “We enjoy

cars and we want people to be able to enjoy their own cars too!” For more information, follow them on Facebook and Instagram or visit bremenautowerks.com. ■

Bremen Auto Werks910 P'tree Industrial Blvd.Suwanee, GA 30024(770) 831-8999bremenautowerks.com

Bremen Autowerks team Hugo Wilmot, Jeremy Lewis and Eric Siegrist

P HOTOS BY:Karl Lamb


{ BY: Angela Veugeler }

I JULY / AUG 1518 I Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com

WILD BIRDSUNLIMITEDSuwanee nature store specializes in birding - amulti-generational hobby for all ages

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D BIRDSSuwanee nature store specializes in birding - amulti-generational hobby for all ages

One of the fastest growing hobbies among nature lovers in the U.S. is bird watching, or birding. It’s something that can be done in your own backyard, or in one of the many parks in the area and throughout the state.

The cool thing about birding, according to Judy Shoop, Co-Owner along with her husband Jim, of Wild Birds Unlimited (WBU) in Suwanee, is that birding is such a multi-generational hobby. “It gives the grandparents something to teach their grandkids about. You can really make it

LOOK FOR THESE COMMON GEORGIA BIRDS >>

“The Gwinnett County Park system is wonderful. George Pierce Park has some of the best birding you can find.”

–Judy Shoop

Chickadee Indigo Bunting

Business Spotlight: P HOTOS BY:

Karl Lamb

19

a cool science project. Take pictures of birds with your grandkids and use the Birds of Georgia Field Guide to identify them. Make a book with your pictures to create wonderful memories and help you connect.” This July, Jim and Judy Shoop celebrate their 10th anniversary owning Wild Birds Unlimited in Suwanee. They not only specialize in all things birds including all types of feeders, bird baths, field guides and binoculars, but are a

nature shop, with a variety of gifts for nature lovers. The franchise appealed to them because of their love of nature and core values. The WBU motto is, “we bring people and nature together and we do it with excellence.” “Nature is so cool,” Judy shared, “watching the males and females take care of their young. The same birds come through every year. If you mark the date you saw them in your field guide, the next year they will show up within a day or two.” In honor of their anniversary, WBU invites the

public to their Birds of Prey shows on July 18th at 11am and 1pm. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources will be on-site and will give visitors an up close look at a Bald Eagle, Red Tail Hawk, owls and more. On July 16 at 7pm, WBU will offer a bat seminar, giving visitors the opportunity to see a live bat up close and even hear what bat calls

sounds like. Both events are free to the public. During the month of August, if you bring in a bag of dog food (up to 20lbs.) to the store mascot

Cheyenne, the Shoop’s yellow lab, you will receive that percentage off your purchase, and the store will donate the food to the Gwinnett Humane Society. On Saturday, August 22nd, from 11am-3pm, they will also host pet adoptions with the Gwinnett Humane Society in the store. ■

Wild Birds Unlimited owners, Judy and Jim Shoop

Blue JayCardinal

Wild Birds UnlimitedDean Taylor Crossing,2133 L'ville Suwanee RdSuwanee, GA 30024(678) 442-9691wbu.com/Suwanee

The WBU Suwanee website shares “We can show you how to turn your yard into a bird feeding habitat that brings song, color and life to your home.” According to Judy, “birds with feeders are nesting earlier and have one to two more eggs per clutch. They don’t rely on feeders, and will still eat a lot in the wild.” Getting started with a feeder is easy. There are inexpensive feeders that start around $15, as well as hummingbird feeders. At WBU, they can help you choose the right feeder for your backyard based on whether you have a deck, trouble with squirrels, etc. In fact, many of their customers are “regulars”, and have become more like friends than customers. Another tip from Judy: “Not all seed is created equal.” None of the WBU blends have any fillers. At some big box stores, you may purchase a 20lb. bag of seed that is filled with filler the birds won’t eat that will end up on the ground.

empower

Interested in getting a feeder?


As children, along with learning our ABC’s and 123’s, we also learned about our reds, yellows and blues. While growing up we used colors to help identify objects and shapes. I can hold up a card that has just the word banana and one would immediately think of the color yellow. Even as adults, we still use color association with shapes, but instead of looking at a flash card you may be looking at a logo or a print ad. Colors play an important role in our lives; such as effectively illustrating our emotions, weather and culture, just to name a few. One of the most important roles that colors have today is a starring role in communication within advertising and marketing. Over the years, communicating through colors has become more important than ever in design and advertising because colors play a huge role in brand recognition that is important for a brand’s identity. Take for example the Target logo: if you take away the text and just have the red and white circles, you immediately recognize it as the Target brand. If you change those red circles to blue, it would become less recognizable even though you just changed the color and nothing else. If a company decides to change the color scheme of its logo, it can have a direct negative effect on the business. By changing the color, you are risking changing the mood and tone associated with your company, which can also change the mood of your audience, and how they look and react to your business. Choosing the right colors for your brand and staying consistent has been proven to be very influential among consumers. In fact, a study has been done that shows colors can help “increase brand recognition by up to 80 percent.” (Source: University of Loyola, Maryland study). When choosing th right color combination for your brand, the type of business you have should be considered. Many restaurants, for example, use reds in their logos and branding because in the psychology of colors, the color red has been linked to appetite and hunger. Various doctor’s offices use blues in their marketing because blues represent trust and cleanliness; and when I think of a hospital, I immediately think of two words: clean and sterile. The right color combination can help your business grow and assist in conveying your message. That’s one of our many jobs as graphic designers; to learn about color theories so that we can help your business succeed by using color as a nonverbal communication strategy in your brand. Personally, I love color and am not afraid to use it as a designer; in fact, I garner inspiration from color and embrace my passion by conveying it in my designs. Like Robert Henri said, “Color is only beautiful when it means something.” So, when thinking about your brand ask yourself, do my colors have meaning and make sense? Do they communicate the right message? Most importantly, take a look at your business’s logo; would it have more of an impact with a different color? ■

The Importance of Color in Marketing

BY: Shay Harbaugh,Assistant Art Director, Veugeler Design Group

Colors can help increase

brand recognition

by up to 80%

University of Loyola, Maryland study

D E S I G N N O T E S

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On August 14th, 1995 Jeff Oliver and his wife Cristina, opened the doors of Postal Plus: the print & mail shop inside Kroger on Peachtree Industrial and Suwanee Dam. Yes, inside Kroger. "That always throws people off at first,” they laughed. But, once people discover it, they almost always see them again. It could be the way that Cristina smiles and asks how the kids are doing; how Jeff is so upfront about pricing and lets people know how he can make the project more affordable; how each customer is treated as a priority; the super quick turnaround time; or the way they are both genuinely happy to see you. Most likely, it's a combination of all of these! This friendly, family-oriented, locally-sourced shop is exactly what Jeff and Cristina were aiming for when they opened twenty years ago. But, it did not come without its own set of challenges. “I barely knew how to make a copy when we opened,” Jeff confided. “And, with our two sons in middle school it was definitely a risk,” Cristina said. But, after eighteen years as a General Manager at a lumberyard, Jeff decided it was time to work for himself. “We liked the idea of a family business and I wanted to be in

23

POSTAL PLUSPrint Shop celebrates 20 yearsin Suwanee

empower

BY: Rachel Pillow

the service industry, working directly with customers,” he said. So, after researching opportunities in the area, long-term business risks, and lower-cost startups – they invested in 2 copy machines, 2 fax machines and a 100 square foot retail space. Twenty years later they have become experts and what most would consider, “The official printers of Suwanee” - as longtime customer Mark Kronenberger puts it. "I’ve had consistent and great service here for over 15 years… everyone knows Jeff and Cristina." Kronenberger continued. “We have made a lot of friends here. The whole experience has been so rewarding,” said Cristina. Along with fostering customer relationships, they’re also committed to supporting other businesses in the area: buying from local vendors as often as possible and referring business to their customer’s companies. And, their noticeable loyalty is not one-sided either. “We have customers that have moved to different states and still use us for all of their printing. We have one in Washington state, someone in Texas and one in South Carolina….it’s crazy, but it’s so great,” they remarked. And, while Postal Plus certainly feels like a “small-town Mom & Pop shop” (I even overheard Jeff swapping BBQ recipes with a customer) - their production capabilities, for personal or business needs, have grown tremendously over the years. But whether they’re printing a large format banner for your company’s next tradeshow or mailing a card to Grandma, you’re sure to be greeted with the same, signature Jeff and Cristina smiles. Visit postalplussuwanee.com for a list of services. Or better yet, next time you’re picking up a couple groceries, head to the corner of Kroger and say hello to Suwanee’s favorite printers. ■

But, after eighteen years as a General Manager at a lumberyard, Jeff decided it was time to work for himself. “We liked the idea of a family business and I wanted to be in

experience has been so rewarding,” said Cristina. Along with fostering customer relationships, they’re also committed to supporting other businesses in the area: buying from local vendors as often as possible and referring business to their customer’s companies. And, their noticeable loyalty is not one-sided either. “We have customers that have moved to different states and still use us for all of their printing. We have one in Washington state, someone in Texas and one in South Carolina….it’s crazy, but it’s so great,” they remarked.

“small-town Mom & Pop shop” (I even overheard Jeff swapping BBQ recipes with a customer) - their production capabilities, for personal or business needs, have grown tremendously over the years. But whether they’re printing a large format banner for your company’s next tradeshow or mailing a card to Grandma, you’re sure to be greeted with the same, signature Jeff and Cristina smiles.

Or better yet, next time you’re picking up a couple groceries, head to the corner of Kroger and say hello to Suwanee’s favorite printers.

We havecustomers that have moved to different

states and still use us for all of their printing.

-Jeff Oliver

Jeff and Cristina Oliver, Co-Owners of Postal Plus

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OTO

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Top tips from Suwanee supermoms and local educators for making a smooth transition to school this year...

Our summer schedules are packed full of: lazy mornings, picnics in the park, vacations to the beach, backyard BBQs, pool parties, days on the lake, family bike rides, ice cream, and nonstop, outdoor fun. So, it can be a real challenge when August rolls around and it's time to switch gears: back-to-school. Most kids are now used to waking up at 9:00 instead of 6:30, going to bed at 10:00 instead of 8:00, playing outside instead of sitting in class, wearing swim trunks instead of polo shirts, grabbing their own food from the kitchen instead of having

to eat whatever was packed for them, choosing their daily activities instead of being assigned homework.

Switching gears without any preparation can be a shock to the system and will definitely result in more chaos and stress in the home and classroom. That’s why we asked Suwanee “supermoms” and local teachers to share their best tips for making this "Summer 2 School" transition as smooth as possible. The verdict: don’t procrastinate; there are a few simple steps you can start NOW to make life easier come August 10th.

Our summerpark, vacations to the beach, backyard BBQs, pool parties, days on the lake, family bike rides, ice cream, and nonstop, outdoor fun.

to switch gears: back-to-school. Most kids are now used to waking up at 9:00 instead of 6:30, going to bed at 10:00 instead of 8:00, playing outside instead of sitting in class, wearing swim trunks instead of polo shirts, grabbing their own food from the kitchen instead of having

to eat whatever was packed for them, choosing their daily activities instead of being assigned homework. Switching gears without any preparation can be a shock to the system

and will definitely result in more chaos and stress in the home and classroom. That’s why we asked Suwanee “supermoms” and local teachers to share their best tips for making this "Summer 2 School" transition as smooth as possible. The verdict: don’t procrastinate; there are a few simple steps you can start NOW to make life easier come August 10th.


Keep them healthy and happySummertime for us is sun, fun and trying new foods! My kids love having the choice of picking a healthy food options when we take our weekly family trip to the grocery store. I have found that if I let them choose the food, they will be more willing to try it. We all strive to fuel our kid’s bodies with healthy food and this summer strategy makes packing lunches during the school year easier. It also puts the parents' minds at ease because you feel good about what is in your child's lunch box and know that they are getting the essential nutrients for brain development and energy requirements.

Supermom, Erica Mentzer shared how sheand her husband, Chad, prepare their three childrenfor the school year ahead:

Erica and Chad Mentzer with Brayden (7),Audrey (5) and Presley (3).

P HOTOBY: STEVE

GLASS

Repeat, repeat, repeatKids thrive on routine. Two weeks before school begins I start implementing our "back to school" routine. This usually includes scheduled meals, earlier bed times and earlier rise-and-shines! This tip is guaranteed to kick off your school year with less stress.

Out with the old, in with the newEvery year before school starts I clean out my kids’ closets. I donate or consign the things that are too small and make room for their new bigger clothes. Sure beats trying to find matching socks on day one of the school year!

Keep their minds sharpOur kids are in great shape when it comes to learning during the school year, and it's our responsibility to keep them conditioned throughout the summer. My kiddos complete age appropriate workbooks and read every night to help prepare them for the next school year. Everything in life is a balancing act and summer is meant to be fun, but by adding a little work here and there, you are sure to keep their neurons firing.

Don’t splurge on “fall clothes”Don’t spend a lot of money on “fall clothes” before school starts inAugust! Remember, it’s still hot and most kids are wearing shortsuntil October.

Document with photosMake sure to take pictures notating the first day of school so that youcan compare them to the last day of school and see how much they havegrown and changed.

Use the carpool drop-off lineFor preschool/young children, if your school offers a car pool drop-off line, use it. It will make your child’s transition smooth everyday, establishes a routine, and will save you lots of time. They will quickly learn how much the teachers love them and enjoy getting them out of the car to go to their class.

25

Joy Lyle, Administrative Assistant from Shadowbrook Baptist Weekday School has tipsfor the first day of school:

Mike and Joy Lyle with Ansley (14), Matthew (13) and Davis (10).

P HOTOBY: STEVE

GLASS


Be positive about schoolSpeak positively about your child's new friends and teacher! Tell them about the fun experiences you had at school and let them know they are going to have a great year.

Support their teachersParents supporting their child's teacher is the single most important way to get your child off to a great start! When parents are supportive and positive about their child's school and teachers, it tells their child that school is important and that their teachers need to be respected!

Get organizedHelp your child get organized for the new school year. Buy folders, paper, pencils and other supplies together, then let them label them and take part in getting geared up for their new year.

Riverside Elementary Teacher of the Year 2013, Lynne Franks, gives tips on how to set your child up for a successful school year:

Lynne Franks, Third grade teacher for 22 years atRiverside Elementary, Media Specialist

Get excitedShow your child the things they will be learning this year. Search the school's website with your child, and let them look at some of the things highlighted about the school. This will build excitement about their new year and the learning they will experience.

Parents supporting their child's teacher is the single most important way to get

your child off to a great start!


29

Supermom Tiffany Belflower, PTA Presidentat Riverside Elementary gives insight into their summer preparations for back to school:

Tiffany Belflower with daughter Ava (8).

We start backing both herbedtime and her alarm clock up 15 minutes at a time.This process starts two weeks before the first day of school. By the time that day arrives she is back to her normal bedtime and getting up easily when her alarm clock goes off at 6:45 AM.

Have her read and do math worksheets throughout the course of the summer.This helps to keep her brain actively thinking about something besides swimming pools and games.

When the first day of school is two weeks away, I gradually switch her eating habits.All of her meals and snacks are served at the same time that they will be during the school year. This eliminates the tired and grumpy stages brought forth by hunger that sometimes occur the first few weeks of school.

It is hard to take the leap from summer playtime to the classroom without some preparation. In my household we have gradually implemented certain ideas that help make the transition easier for my daughter. Everyone's child is different. In my house, it is all about routine. If I can get my daughter on a set routine our first week of school, it is fun and exciting...

This free calendar app allows you to create both individual and family calendars, and synchronize your family’s activities on multiple devices. Everything is color coded and easy to use; you can even set up text reminders so you never miss another appointment again!

For parents who could use a little help organizing chores for children, this app allows you to assign chores to each of your children, or use the random function to automatically assign chores. If you want to set up rewards for your children, Chore Hero has a very useful profile system that will help you keep track of each child’s progress. You can pick up this app for $2.99.

Tired of getting home from the grocery store realizing you forgot something? With this free app, you can type, speak, or even scan items into your grocery list and it will put them into categories while also checking for any coupons that can be sent to your email.

This free all-in-one planner keeps a daily record of the to-do lists, schedules and tasks that you create, with today’s tasks highlighted as well as a list of overdue tasks. There are options to color-code, prioritize tasks and mark off completed items.

Apps to help you keep track of everyone’s schedule and run the household:

There's an App for that!

Chore Hero

Grocery IQ

Mom’s Daily Planner

Cozi


Annie Valenty , Community Outreach Coordinator at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA) and Suwanee Supermom, shared tips from the CHOA Strong4Life Wellness team

Ease into a modified summer schedule nowIf your kids are lacking sleep structure this summer, now’s the perfect time to create a schedule. "Kids need a schedule all the time, not just during the school year," says CHOA’s Dr. Walsh, Pediatrician and mom of three boys. Walsh says kids need at least two weeks to become reaccustomed to waking up early-and the earlier you start, the easier the transition.

Develop a relaxing nighttime routineWhat’s the best way to wake up on the right side of the bed? Start the night before! Whether it’s a bath, reading a book, or listening to soothing music, every child has things to help them relax before going to sleep.

Power offThe hour before bed should be a no-electronics zone. Studies show the light from backlit electronics (like tablets, smartphones, and video games) can disrupt our ability to fall—and stay—asleep. Designate a spot in your home for electronics to be plugged in, and have your kids start their bedtime routine by plugging in one hour before lights out!

Get up and get outsideThe best way to shake off summer slumber is to get some sunshine! So on those first days of your new routine, have the kids start their day by watering the flowers, walking the dog or having a healthy breakfast on the patio—anything that exposes them to daylight first thing.

Tony and Annie Valenty with Nate (9), Katie (13), and Emma (11).

The transition from summerback to school days is not easy in

our home. As a family, we enjoy the later evenings and are never eager to jump back into a school routine.

I have found over the years, starting the transition a few weeks before

school begins is so much better for my kids and my family overall. Our

Strong4Life Wellness team with Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta have identified several ways to

help ease your family back into the rhythm of school, focusing on both adequate sleep and fun nutritional

lunches that make those early mornings just a bit easier on

all of us.

PHOTOS BY:Karl Lamb

38 health. happiness. wellness.

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PHOTOS BY:Karl Lamb

CATERING TO COWARDS

SUWANEE DENTAL CAREIS TACKLING THE

VERY REAL FEAR OF DENTAL PHOBIA

BY: Rachel Pillow

Elizabeth Zadai, Dental Assistant, SuwaneeDental Care

SUMMERHAIR

WITH AIR SALON

38SUMMER

HAIR SUMMER

WITH AIR SALON

SUMMER

WITH AIR SALON

PHOTOS BY:Karl Lamb

CATERING TO COWARDS

SUWANEE DENTAL CAREIS TACKLING THE

VERY REAL FEAR OF DENTAL PHOBIA

BY: Rachel Pillow

Elizabeth Zadai, Dental Assistant, SuwaneeSuwaneeDental Care

SUWANEE DENTAL CARE 34 GOOD SAMARITAN 40 / SOUTHERN TRADITIONS 42


Suwanee Dental Care, at the corner of Suwanee Dam Road and Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, is recognized as one of the top dental practices in the U.S., and is particularly known for the use of Sedation Dentistry to treat patients with moderate to severe dental phobia. Out of over 5,000 dentists in the state of Georgia, only 187 have obtained the training and Oral Conscious Sedation license in the state. The doctors at Suwanee Dental Care are among that licensed group.

Dr. Bill Williams, Dr. Chad Schalk, Dr. Melissa Kremer and Dr. Naz Majdi, along with Suwanee Dental Care’s experienced office staff, dental assistants and hygienists, do everything possible to ensure that even their most fearful patients feel right at home. Their website even states, “We cater to cowards.” The phrase is not meant to be derogatory or single people out: on the contrary, it is actually a common phrase used in the dental industry to say, “We understand and we have a solution.”

“We understand that these fears are real and that dealing with people’s concerns is just as important as fixing their cavities,” Dr. Williams explained. As a leading practitioner and member of the Dental Organization for Conscious Sedation, Dr. Williams has developed one of the nation’s most comprehensive “Anxiety Reduction Programs.” Their non-invasive sedation services include: a tranquilizing medication, affectionately dubbed “The Chill Pill” and “Tranquilizing Air” – a non-narcotic, calming mixture of Nitrous Oxide and Oxygen that patients breathe through a personal inhaler that’s available in several, pleasant fragrances.

But, the calming effects don’t just start in the doctor’s chair. Patients are invited to wait for treatment in the “Relaxation Room” - a quiet, dimly lit,

aromatherapy room complete with WiFi accessibility and massage chairs. An informative consultation then helps patients decide which treatment options work best for them. Dr. Williams believes that every single person deserves a smile they love, and whatever is holding them back from that, they will overcome together. “We want to create an experience here that our patients enjoy,” said Dr. Williams, “Suwanee Dental Care proudly offers state-of-the-art drill-less technologies, including Laser or Air Abrasion Dentistry for small cavities, a variety of cosmetic procedures and oral surgery.

It is estimated that nearly 75% of adults in the U.S. suffer from some level of dental anxiety, with over 40 million suffering from dental phobia: an extreme, irrational fear of going to the dentist.

The lobby of Suwanee Dental Care features artwork and decór in a soothing, Southwestern theme

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Because many patients and their families have been seeing Dr. Williams for years (some of them since day one), it was important to be a place where they could essentially get “everything under one roof.” Especially for a patient who is overcoming dental phobia, the thought of visiting a new dentist for specialty services could send him spiraling backwards again. It’s important to have a relationship built on trust, and it is evident that Dr. Williams and his team have done exactly that with their patients. Along with being recognized as a top Sedation Dentistry facility in the nation, Suwanee Dental Care also specializes in: TMJ “faulty jaw” and joint surgery, dental implants, cosmetic dentistry and Invisalign® orthodontic treatment. Suwanee Dental Care’s team of DMD dentists and surgeons are also focused on continued education, certification

Dr. Bill Williams, Dr. Melissa Kremer and Dr. Chad Schalk

...non-invasive sedation services include a

tranquilizing medication, affectionately

dubbed “The Chill Pill” and “Tranquilizing Air”

– a non-narcotic, calming mixture of nitrous oxide

and oxygen...


and training, and are leading members of several prestigious Dental Associations and Societies. Dr. Bill Williams, DMD, MAGA, MICCO, founded Suwanee Dental Care in 1997 with a clear vision: “To create smiles people love throughout the Southeastern USA with comprehensive, comfortable, state-of-the-art dentistry. And, to offer love, hope and light to seekers in all nations through dental mission experiences.”

He has hand-selected a team whose personal values and goals are in direct alignment with this vision – and subsequently, a place where patients of all ages have come to expect consistent, caring, loving and attentive treatment catered just to them. To learn more and view a full list of services, visit atlantagentledental.com. ■

Summer in Suwanee is here and with it comes the challenge of keeping your hair healthy and fabulous! Here are some tips for keeping your mane strong and vibrant in this season of fun in the sun:

Tips to combat summerhair from AIR SalonBY: Cecilia Bush,Owner, AIR Salon

We all love the golden glow of summer skin, but all those rays can do a number on your hair. Just like you protect your skin protect your hair! Excess sun can cause dryness, split ends, breakage, brittle strands and turn your beautiful highlights dull. Add to that the chlorine from the pool, excess shampoos to rinse out the chlorine, high-heat tools for achieving your summer waves, and you have a recipe for limp, frizzy and broken hair. Consider adding these three items to your summer regimen for fabulous hair all summer long: ColorProof ClearItUp Detox Shampoo is gentle and safe for removing excess build-up while maintaining your summer highlights! Follow with a hydration treatment like Moraccanoil’s Weightless Hydrating Mask, which adds

moisture and strength without leaving your hair heavy and weighed down. Lastly, protect your hair like you do your skin! Try ColorProof’s Humidity RX! The revolutionary water repelling polymers protect your hair strands against the elements of humidity, protecting your style.


Moraccanoil’s Weightless Hydrating Mask

ColorProof ClearItUp Detox Shampoo

ColorProof’s Humidity RX!

Do the #frizzyhairprobs have you sad and sporting the forever pony? Ditch the pony and embrace free-flowing hair! Consider a Keratherapy Keratin Treatment. Unlike amino acid based treatments, which strip your hair of the bonds that give it its natural texture, damaging and drying out your hair, Keratin Infusion Treatments are designed to restore your hair’s health by adding natural proteins to your strands. They are safe for color treated hair, improve curl manageability, and significantly reduce frizz and speed up your drying time. The best part, they give you better results for at-home styling! With solutions that target fine OR thick hair, straight OR curly, and short OR long-term options, Keratherapy has something for everyone, including Vegan Formaldehyde Free options for those who are expecting or health-conscious.

Lastly, every fabulous girl needs a go-to summer style that is quick and easy. Try the Va-Va-Va Pony or Braid! This style lets you use your natural texture to bring some summer

pizzazz to your look. After washing and drying your hair (work that natural wave), simply add a texturing spray like Fave4’s Texture Takeover, and scrunch your hair to work it in. Tease at the crown and front of your head and gently pull the sides back into a pony above the nap of your neck, or higher

if you so dare! Then, simply fluff out the pony or braid it into a super-textured braid or fishtail for an awesome effect that is chic yet easy. For more oomph add in a pretty headband or sparkly clips to tuck fly-aways in their place. At AIR Salon, we believe fabulous hair empowers you! We believe in whole-health care for your hair and can help you achieve that fabulous summer style you deserve. Let us be your summer hair care cure, no scissors, andno dyes, just the WOW! ■

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G O O D S A M A R I T A N H E A L T H C E N T E R O F G W I N N E T T

In the fall of 2003, a group of physicians within the metro-

Atlanta area decided to give back to the community. Their plan was to host a health-fair in a low-income apartment complex parking lot freely offering their services to those who could not afford medical care and did not have insurance.

They expected to treat a few bumps and bruises, maybe prescribe antibiotics for a sinus infection, and leave knowing they made a difference. What they did not expect was for a detrimental need to come to light that day in the parking lot. People began lining up for ailments such as untreated heart disease, thyroid illness and severe diabetes. They quickly realized there was a much larger issue that had been unaddressed, at home, in their own community. In that moment this small group of volunteer physicians decided they needed to do more. Partnering with numerous community organizations

such as: the Gwinnett Coalition for Health and Human Services and UNITE! Churches of Gwinnett, the Good Samaritan Health Center of Gwinnett (GSHCG) was established; a part-time practice open 8 hours a week centered around the mission to “demonstrate the Love of Christ in word and deed by providing affordable, quality primary healthcare services to the poor and uninsured.” GSHCG first opened their doors in June 2005 in a 4,300 square foot facility with just under 30 parking spaces outside. Nowadays, it is not uncommon to see 45 cars triple parked with patients lining the walls of the waiting room. As word of GSHCG’s mission continued to grow, so did their schedule. Their doors are currently open 54 hours a week, 22 days a month, treating over 80 people per day. While it is statistically true that the county boasts a higher median household income than the state average, the tremendous growth within the

Local program provides medical care to those in need


BY: Michele Fasig

41

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community over the past several years has caused the need for affordable healthcare to skyrocket. GSHCG has provided over 42,000 patient visits since 2011 alone; over 88% of those patients reside within Gwinnett country and have an average household income of $14,388. Over 52 countries are represented among their patients leading to the need of a highly trained staff to identify illnesses such as malaria and leprosy alongside more common ailments such as hypertension. Operating on only discounted service costs and donations, GSHCG has been overwhelmingly successful in calling upon their community for not only financial donations but volunteer services as well. This past year, over 470 individuals sacrificed over 18,500 hours of service valued at $545,571. Mutually beneficial relationships with schools such as Georgia State University and Mercer University have resulted in medical students earning the opportunity to volunteer their time, train alongside licensed medical professionals, and earn work hours needed towards obtaining their medical degrees. The outpouring of interest within the community has in fact been so great that GSHCG has enough volunteers to staff their facility all the way through the first quarter of 2016. However, after 10 years of providing primary care to the uninsured, Good Samaritan Health Center of Gwinnett has come to an impossible impasse. They are

no longer able to continue expanding their services in their current facility to meet Gwinnett County’s ever growing need. “We are busier and busier. As we have added more hours, more people have come,” explained Executive Director, Gregory Lang, PhD. In fact, as the need continues to grow, their 4,300 square foot facility feels smaller and smaller. It is the goal of GSHCG to raise the funds necessary to move their operation to a 15,000 square foot facility with over 80 parking spaces. In doing so they would be able to expand their service hours, establish a pediatric clinic and a full-time dental clinic. It is a safe assumption that the cost of the goal is not low, and as a non-profit organization GSHCG relies upon the flat reduced fees they receive from their patients, grants, and donations. The need within the community is ever growing and GSHCG aims to continue to build a community, serve the needs of others less fortunate, and continue saving lives. ■

If you areinterested in

making a donation, please visit

goodsamgwinnett.org/donations

rom elementary through high school, I will never forget the ring of the school bell on the last day before summer and the feeling of freedom and excitement it brought with it. There is really nothing else like a summer in the South. You

may think we let that hot, humid heat slow us down but on the contrary that’s when us Southerners are at our best. Everyone has their own traditions that make a summer unique to them but growing up below the Mason Dixon line there are some

experiences that everyone can relate to. As a kid, I remember barefoot, balmy nights with friends, chasing fireflies around my

backyard, filling up mason jars with the mystical, glowing creatures. Eventually we would tire ourselves out and end up lying in the grass watching them float above us. To me, the first sighting

of lightning bugs always signified the beginning of summer. Summer in the South makes me nostalgic for neighborhood swim meets, the smell of chlorine and pizza lingering in the air. You were a swim team kid if you know the meaning of “eat my bubbles,” a phrase that took several days and several showers to finally scrub off (why we always used permanent marker… I will never know). Summer in the South means long days on the water. Wherever you live in The South, there is guaranteed to be a lake, a river, or an ocean close by. As a kid, I remember spending endless days on Lake Lanier exploring the little sandy islands with friends and siblings in a paddle boat, jumping in for a swim when the heat became too much. Summer in the South means golden hair,

BY: Aoife Healy


43

red cheeks, and a whole lot of sunscreen. Regardless of how much sunscreen your mom doused you in before leaving the house that morning, it was never any match for the red-hot southern sun- and the day would always inevitably end in sunburn and aloe vera. A Southern summer is not complete without a trip down the Chattahoochee- “Shooting the Hooch,” we like to call it! Shooting the Hooch was always an adventure that involved tubes (or blow up mattresses… I don’t recommend!), 15 of your closest friends, and a cooler filled with your beverage of choice! The day was always full of laughter as friends were pushed into the chilly water, tubes spontaneously deflated, and coolers found their new homes at the bottom of the river. Everyone would always go home exhausted, happy and full of stories to tell. The shining star of a Southern summer was always and will always be the Fourth of July. Memories of dancing around with sparklers in hand come to mind. The South goes all out for the Fourth of July- it’s not just a tradition but a religion in these parts! Flags are flown from houses, cars, you name it, there is a flag flying from it! Red, White, and Blue attire is the only acceptable uniform. Grilling out has to be done on this day- burgers, hot dogs, and bratwursts will always make an appearance. Personally, my favorite part is the fireworks show- there is nothing like sitting with loved ones with your belly full of delicious food and watching the sky sparkle with red, white and blue.

Let’s not forget about those simple little things that make a summer in the South what it is; days spent on wide front porches drinking sweet iced tea (the sweeter the better- that’s our motto), drinking cold water directly from the garden hose, summer nights spent attempting to camp outside under the stars (attempting being the key word). It is hard to explain but there is just something magical about a summer in the South, and I feel lucky that I have gotten to experience that magic growing up in Georgia. ■

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savoravoavoav rorolocal food. craft beer. wine trends.

5345

52LOCALSUMMER BREWS s5252LOCALSUMMER BREWS

BY: Aoife Healy P HOTOS BY: Karl Lamb

RESTAURANT SPOTLIGHT: SUWANEE PARK TAVERN 46 / THE GRAPEVINE: SUMMER SIPPERS 50 / RESTAURANT LISTINGS 56


estled in the heart of Suwanee Town Center Park, the owners of Suwanee Park Tavern have brought a little piece of the city to our

doorstep. Walking into Suwanee Park Tavern you immediately notice the modern feel with a twist of classic elegance. The stained concrete floors mix nicely with the dark wood and white tablecloths lending to that upscale yet approachable vibe. Owner, Robert Oakley, gave us some insight into what Suwanee Park Tavern is all about. “When my wife, Rhonda, and I were looking to open a restaurant we had envisioned something on a much smaller scale,” he said. But when the opportunity came along to work with such a great space- we knew we had to take it!” Robert and Rhonda are two self-proclaimed foodies who had always talked about opening a family run diner. They are passionate about great

food and great service. No strangers to the Food Network- they enjoy all things food related. Their vision of a small town diner has evolved into a large urban restaurant with an open air bar, with indoor and outdoor seating. What they did keep from their original concept, however, was the personalized, family-oriented style which can be seen in the little details throughout the dining experience. “We are very much a family

Suwanee Park Tavern

Restaurant Spotlight

Where did you goto culinary school? SUNY Delhi

What are 5 thingsyou can’t live withoutin the kitchen? Music, garlic, fresh ingredients, a great team, positive atmosphere.

How long have youbeen with SuwaneePark Tavern? Since day one when we openedthe doors!

Favorite thing to eaton the menu? Calamari. It is simple, not too heavy and the perfect amountof crunch- it’s perfect!

Favorite thing to cookon the menu? Crusted, apple stuffed porkloin with apple cream sauceand rice pilaf

Favorite dessert? The chocolate chip cookie with vanilla ice cream

Why do you enjoy working at Suwanee Park Tavern?Simply put- the people are great! We have a great community in the area and I love talking to the new customers.

savor

Chef Rafaelwith

47

Brianna Botting,Server


perfect for a casual family night out or a classy date night. Let’s not forget about that fabulous open air bar! Fridays and Saturdays at 9:00PM the flair show begins behind the bar with each bartender stacking countless shot glasses and throwing bottles in the air. If you are in the mood for a cocktail, you have to try their 'Bubbles and Berries', a delightful concoction of Citrus Vodka, Creme de Casis, Lemon Juice, Marinated Berries, Prosseco and little bit of smoking dry ice to finish it off - definitely a showstopper! Whether you're looking for fun, new spot for date night, girls night, drinks with friends or family dining - Suwanee Park Tavern has something for everyone. ■

SUWANEE PARK TAVERN 340 Town Center Avenue, Suwanee, GA 30024(470) 266-1516suwaneeparktavern.com

Suwanee Park Tavern offers an upscale yet relaxed dining environment

SPT’s famous ‘Bubbles and Berries’ martini

Cassidy Goldblatt,Server

run restaurant,” said Robert. “Both my sons, my daughter, and my nephew help to make up the 30 person staff,” he added. The owners have lived in the Suwanee area for many years so they truly know the people and enjoy serving the community. “Many of the customers are my neighbors which is great because they are always

the most honest about their experience,” said Robert. His goal for each customer is for them to leave happier than when they entered SPT. “I encourage feedback of any kind. I want to make sure that the dining experience is always top notch.” he said. At Suwanee Park Tavern each dish is given the same amount of attention and importance. Whether you order the club

sandwich or the Steak del Monaco, you will leave thoroughly satisfied with what you ordered. That is what makes the restaurant such a gem, it is

“I encourage feedback of any

kind. I want tomake sure that

the dining experience

is always top notch.”

Robert Oakley,Owner, Suwanee Park Tavern

BY: Warren Dennis WINE EXPERT MEGA PACKAGE

50 I Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com I JULY / AUG 15suwaneemagazine.com suwaneemagazine.com suwaneemagazine.com I JULY / AUG 15

The long, hot days of summer in Suwanee call for plenty of cool, refreshing vino! Luckily, the different options are as abundant as all the seasonal foods we love to have with them. Whether it’s seafood, chicken, steaks, ribs, or fresh veggies, it’s likely coming off your backyard grill. We’ll help you make the right choice for your taste and your budget...

Most of the best summer wines are light on the palate and on the pocketbook. Consider Sauvignon Blanc, a go-to wine for summer. There is a world of style for this most versatile grape. You can try the zesty, citrusy-grapefruity versions from New Zealand, the distinctively mineral Sancerre from France, or the classic White Bordeaux- often blended with Sémilon grapes for a more grassy, pungent flavor. Of course California can touch on each of these nuances at a wide range of price and quality. One of the best is Pedroncelli, from the highly regarded Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County. It smells like Ruby Red Grapefruit, but tastes refreshing with typical flavors of white stone fruit, fresh herbs and mowed grass. It’s also a “Best Buy” for only $10.99.

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Or how about the bubblies? Prosecco is exploding [literally] in today’s market. With its’ milder, fruitier profile than traditional champagnes and an average price point well under $20, the Italian Bubbly jumped over 30% in sales last year. Our newest version is Ai Galli DOC Millesimato at $14.99. The white peaches and acacia flowers provide a soft sparkle that goes with just about anything: especially shrimp dishes, Chicken Alfredo, and late afternoons. Portugal provides us with an ideal “summer slammer” in their Vinho Verde. It’s called “Frizzante” due to the very slight carbonation which tap dances across your palate. Literally translated, the term “vinho verde” means “young, green wine” as it’s usually consumed in the 1st or 2nd year. W you is a new brand in town– a wine made with “You” in mind. Under $10 with an intense bouquet of citrus, it is round in the mouth with lots of fruit, balanced acidity, and a big dollop of deliciousness.

Refreshing white wines are always nice, but I also must recommend the Hecht & Bannier Rose from Provence. It has immense charm with berry and red apple skin notes with hints of purple flowers. One of the vineyards is literally yards from the Mediterranean Sea, which adds a snappy, maritime zest, perfect for summertime sipping. They even harvest the grapes from 3 until 9 AM to retain all the freshness they have to offer!

Summer BBQs with steaks or ribs on the grill do call for some red wines too. Light and fruity picnic wines from Beaujolais are nice and they love a quick chill-maybe a half hour in the fridge. But more often than not we go for a nice Pinot Noir. It is the most versatile red wine, pairing well with chicken, beef or even sushi. Try the Domaine Chandon Pinot from Carneros. Best known for their sparkling wines, Chandon grows marvelous fruit. This pinot has cherry & plum flavors with toasty oak & sage notes. The winery assures me that it’s great with grilled

octopus, but I know first hand that it goes marvelously with grilled salmon, too! ■

Any way you look at it, these wines will giveyou a stellar Red, White & Rose outlook to enjoy the Red,

White & Blue Suwanee Summer!

WITH MICHAEL LUNDMARKOWNER, JEKYLL BREWING

With longer days and the outdoors calling, we can seize the opportunity to spend time with those we care about and share a new brew...

You could say that summer is the South’s time to shine -and it’s not because of the sun’s relentless heat! In the craft beer world, several refreshing, light-bodied brew styles such as Blonde/Golden, Kolsch-style, Wheat and even Amber emerge at this time to coincide with these warmer temperatures. As y’all know, the South is no stranger to feasts, friends, and fierce pride. Lucky for us, summer is bookended by patriotic holidays allowing us to reflect and rejoice with all the things we do well as Americans. Usually the temperatures stay warm between Memorial Day and Labor Day, so we bust out the BBQ tongs and white shoes to mark the season of summer - and that’s also when many of the lighter style beers explode in the market! There are hundreds of different beer styles overall, with dozens of “summer” styled brews emerging in the summer heat. You can reference all styles by downloading one of many different beer apps to your phone for fast reference. I like to reference the BJCP Styles app, which outlines the official guidelines for every beer style. To help demystify a few of these styles, here are some reference notes describing aroma, appearance, flavor, mouthfeel and local craft examples:

GEORGIA CRAFT EDITION


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Blonde/Golden Ales: Often have a very light to sweet malty aroma, sometimes with a low to moderate fruitiness aroma. This style can be light yellow to deep gold in color. Flavor should always be light and the finish is medium-dry to somewhat sweet. The mouthfeel should present medium to high carbonation and should always be smooth without harsh bitterness or astringency. Commercial examples in Georgia include Jekyll Brewing’s Southern Session Blonde, Red Brick's Blonde and Terrapin's Golden Ale (actually a Cream Ale, but very similar to a Blonde).

Kolsch-Style: Kolsch-Style is a clean, crisp, delicately balanced beer usually with very subtle fruit flavors and aromas. A pleasant, subtle fruit aroma (apple, cherry or pear) from fermentation is acceptable but not always present. The color is always very pale to light gold with a delicate white head that may not persist. Flavor should present a soft, rounded palate comprising of a delicate flavor balance between soft yet attenuated malt, an almost imperceptible fruity sweetness from fermentation, and a medium-low to medium bitterness with a delicate dryness and slight pucker in the finish (but no harsh aftertaste).

The mouthfeel is always smooth and crisp with medium-light body and medium to medium-high carbonation. Commercial examples in Georgia include Jekyll Brewing's Big Creek, Eventide's Kolsch and Terrapin’s Road Warrior.

Wheat: American Wheats typically have low to no aroma, whereas European Wheats will have aroma of banana and/or cloves. Appearance is pale yellow to gold with a thick, long lasting white head.

This style should offer a range of light to moderately strong bready, doughy or grainy wheat flavor, including a low to moderate hop bitterness. These brew’s mouthfeel are medium-light to medium body and are medium-high to high carbonation. Wheat beers sometimes have a soft "fluffy" impression. Commercial

Georgia examples include Jailhouse Brewing's Slammer Wheat, Monday Night Brewing's Fu Man Brew andRed Hare Brewing's Wabbit Wheat.

savor

Jailhouse Brewing Company's Slammer Wheat

Suwanee American Craft Beer Fest WinsBest Festival in Gwinnett Second Year in a Row

Not to be confused with Amber Lagers, American Amber Ales bring more flavor than their lager cousins. Like an Amber Lager with more body, more caramel richness, and a balance more towards malt. In the aroma, a citrusy hop character is common, but not required. Moderately low to moderately high maltiness balances and sometimes masks the hop presentation, and usually shows a moderate caramel character. Flavor includes American hop character, well balanced by the malty sweetness caramel flavor. Caramel sweetness and hop flavor/bitterness can linger somewhat into the medium to full finish.

Mouthfeel offers medium to medium-full body. Carbonation should be moderate to high with an overall smooth finish. Commercial Georgia examples include Jekyll Brewing’s ‘Merican Amber and Eagle Creek’s Georgia Tea Party.

I sincerely hope you get the opportunity to celebrate your favorite summer tradition and enjoy it with a great Georgia beer! Let us raise a local, craft cold one to each other because, darlin’, we’re all family around here. ■


malty sweetness caramel flavor. character, well balanced by the character, well balanced by the malty sweetness caramel flavor.

American Amber Ales:

Jekyll Brewing Company's 'MericanAmerican Amber Ale

Congratulations to the 5th annual Suwanee Beer Fest for being voted “The Best Festival in Gwinnett” for the second year in a row by readers of the Gwinnett Daily Post! Each year thousands of people sporting their Saint Patrick’s Day finest descend on Suwanee Town Center Park for a fun day sampling some of the best craft beers from around the country, eating great food from local restaurants, and enjoying live entertainment. We look forward toseeing what the 2016 festival will bring next March! ■

PHOTO BY:Paul

Perdue

From the team that brought you theSUWANEE AMERICAN CRAFT BEER

FEST AND SUWANEE WINE FESTcomes Gwinnett County's next big event...

20151:00PM - 5:00pm

VIP GATES OPEN @ 12pm

TICKETS ON SALE

Aug. 7TH@ NOON!

TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE @GwinnettBeerFest.com

20151:00PM - 5:00pm

PRODUCTIONSPRODUCTIONS

VIP includes 1 hour early admission and special VIP area, exclusive beers and catered food.

PHOTO BY:Paul

Perdue


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The Curry Pot3370 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suwanee470-266-1520TheCurryPotSuwanee.com $$The Curry Pot offers the best of traditional Indian vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine. They aim to give you a glimpse of India and it’s rich cultures through the food. All of their food is freshly prepared and cooked to order; there is always something to suit everyone. They offer vegetarian, lamb, chicken, and seafood dishes at the spice level of your choosing: mild, medium or spicy, and even a lunch buffet 7 days a week starting at $8.95.

rest��r��tBEST AREA DINING OPTIONS FROM FINE DINING TO FUN FAMILY FARE

LISTINGS

$ UNDER $10 $$ $11 - $30 $$$ $31 - $50 $$$$ MORE THAN $50

Athens Kouzzina5900 Sugarloaf Parkway • Lawrenceville678-847-0150AthensKouzzina.com I $$Athens Kouzzina is Georgia’s premier Greek restaurant. Authentic flavors, classic recipes and the finest ingredients cooked expertly combine to create a Greek experience that’s sure to have you coming back again and again. With flavors that are subtle, classic and absolutely delicious, Athens Kouzinna guarantees you are in for a treat.

Greek Island Grill & Bar3320 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd • Suwanee678-926-3616GreekIslandSuwanee.com I $$

Suwanee Park Tavern340 Town Center Ave. • Suwanee 470-266-1516SuwaneeParkTavern.com I $$Suwanee Park Tavern is a family-friendly restaurant and tavern located in the heart of Suwanee. At Suwanee Park Tavern, the focus is on excellent cuisine with the warmth and charm of Southern hospitality.

Greek Island Grill offers an authentic and eclectic blend of Greek and Mediterranean flavors. From their fresh baked pita, to chargrilled kebobs, with a view of their open kitchen, and wonderful crafted libations coming from their beautiful bar, you will feel as if you are truly in the Greek Islands.

Dollar signs indicate the typical cost per person for meal,includes one non-alcoholic drink, tax and tip.

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Tanner’s 525 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard • Suwanee • 770-614-1335ChickenWingsSuwaneeGA.com I $$Tanner's family-friendly restaurant, known for the “best” chicken fingers and wings, has been serving Suwanee residents since 1986. They offer a diverse menu that is sure to please even the pickiest eater with their delicious assortment of burgers, sandwiches, ribs, seafood and salads prepared fresh to order for dine-in, take-out or catering. If you’re in the mood for some down-home American comfort food, Tanner's is sure to hit the spot.

Cinco1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Suite 100 • Suwanee678-541-0645 I CincoRestaurants.com I $$Cinco is authentic, Latin-infused Mexican Cuisine served in a family- friendly setting. With a unique menu, Cinco offers an upscale variety of Mexican dishes that are carefully prepared from scratch. Weekly specials include: Kids eat free Monday & Tuesday, daily drink specials, Sunday brunch and an adjoining After Five lounge that offers live music, fresh tapas and over 60 specialty martinis!

Twisted Taco3433 Lawrenceville Suwanee Rd • Suwanee678-541-6675 I TwistedTaco.com I $$

Twisted Taco is an American Mexican Cantina that fuses new American and bold Mexican flavors to form a one of a kind “Twist” on Mexican cuisine. At Twisted Taco they use only the freshest and best quality ingredients inspiring their California style burritos, sizzling fajitas, homemade salsas and of course, their famous “twisted tacos.” They cater any event! Come enjoy one of their 15 signature margaritas and soak in the summer sun at their Suwanee location’s full-service rooftop patio!

Tannery Row Ale House554 West Main Street • Buford678-765-8979 I TanneryRowAleHouse.com $$Tannery Row Ale House is the home of the best barbeque, pizza, sandwiches and libations on this side of the tracks! Located in the Historic Tannery Row building, their menu features modern comfort food inspired by the history and culture of our surroundings. They also host a variety of events like trivia night, live performances and nighttime entertainment- so grab your friends and head over for a good time!

Friends American Grill3890 Lawrenceville Suwanee Road • Suwanee678-765-6477 I FriendsAmericanGrill.com $$Friends is a neighborhood grill and bar featuring a wide variety of American food items, as well as liquor, beer and wine. They are a great place for families as well as to just get a couple of drinks. They were voted "Best of Gwinnett" as well as a "Readers Choice Winner" in theGwinnett Daily Post.

Schlotzsky's2941 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd • Suwanee678-765-6336 I Schlotzskys.com I $Schlotzsky’s offers a wide variety of freshly baked bread, delicious hot sandwiches, Artisan flatbreads, specialty pizzas, toasted wraps, freshly tossed salads, gourmet soups, and more! Schlotzsky's taste remains true to their roots by using the highest quality ingredients to make the world’s best sandwich.

MEXICAN AMERICAN

Ippolito's350 Town Center Avenue • Suwanee678-985-4377 I Ippolitos.net I $$Specializing in pizza, pasta and other authentic Italian dishes. Ippolito’s candleit, romantic restaurant provides a fine-dining environment. The menu features antipasto, Chicken Francese, Shrimp Scampi, Salmon Gabriella & more.

Suwanee Pizza Tavern1500 Peachtree Industrial Blvd • Suwanee678-546-0823 I SPTavern.com I $$Suwanee Pizza Tavern is known for their made-from-scratch wood-fired Pizza, Garlic Knots, Wings, Sandwiches, Pastas, and friendly atmosphere. The open pizza pit showcases their wood-fired oven where you can watch their pizza chef create your pizza. The dining area is perfect for a family outing, or you can head over to their signature bar with your friends to watch your favorite sports on the flat screen TV's. Visit Suwanee Pizza Tavern, your local upscale pizza tavern!

ITALIAN

Gulf Coast Grill3463A Lawrenceville-Suwanee RdSuwanee I 678-765-8270 GulfCoastGrillSuwanee.com I $$Bringing the taste of the coast to Suwanee, Gulf Coast Grill serves fresh seafood ranging from salmon, mahi, shrimp, oysters, grouper, catfish, crawfish and crab; as well as sirloin, sausage and chicken with a Cajun twist.

SEAFOOD

ONLINE @ SuwaneeMagazine.comREVIEWS & MORE!

PHOTOS BY:Julie Perdue

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SUWANEE SCULPTOUR 64 / BROADWAY IN THE PARK 65 / ACTOR'S EDGE:NTO THE WOODS 65 / NGAA SCHOLARSHIPS 66 / HANS FRABEL EXHIBIT 67

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PHOTOS BY:Julie Perdue

the exploration of a community dedicated to the arts...

SUWANEE PERFORMING ARTS PRESENTS

CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG

pg. 65

HOMEBY DARK

CONCERT SERIES

Gabriel Ferrari, Natalie Minter,

Charlotte Wearne and Luke Wilborn

star as leading characters in the fanciful, magical

production.

32 I Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com I MAY / JUNE 15

for many years. Casto shared how he and Williams used to drive from Atlanta to Nashville in the hopes of getting to play one song at open mic nights. It was clear that Williams' incredible voice and powerful songs resonated with the crowd. He has earned a category win in the International Songwriting Competition, landed a #1 cut on the southern gospel chart and performed as a featured artist at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. James Casto created Home By Dark in 2007. The name comes from fond memories of his childhood, when his mom would always tell him to “be home by dark.” The phrase conjures up memories of playing outside with friends, sharing stories around the dinner table, and the warm welcome his mom always extended to others. Casto grew up in Roswell, and started playing piano and writing songs in high school. After college,

HOME BY DARK:Songwriters in the round concert series debuts 2015 Gwinnett show


BY: Angela Veugeler I PHOTOS BY: Karl Lamb

Home by Dark kicked off the Gwinnett series on June 13 at Gwinnett Performing Arts Center. The powerful performance touched hearts and captivated the audience, featuring songwriters sharing their own songs, along with where they wrote the song or what motivated them to write it. It was my first Home By Dark show, and I loved every minute of it. You felt like you really got to know the people on the stage, and hearing the stories behind the songs made them even more meaningful.

Eight artists shared the stage. Front and center were songwriters James David Carter and JP Williams. Carter is a singer and songwriter from Atlanta who appeared on NBC’s “The Voice” in 2014. With over 43,000 facebook fans, Carter is quickly gaining notoriety as a country singer to look out for! His current album “Songs on the Radio” is available for download on iTunes. Carter’s incredible voice and lyrics drew the audience in as he shared hit songs such as “Georgia Day” and “Sweet Mama”, which he wrote after talking to his mom on the phone and thinking about how much she meant to him. Williams, a staff songwriter with Major Bob Music in Nashville, has known Home By Dark founder James Casto

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he struggled to find work as a musician, eventually deciding to pursue a career in the business world. He earned his MBA in 1996 and spent several years in the business world, building a highly-successful company with three colleagues. On the morning of September 11, 2001, as it did for many Americans, his outlook changed. While watching the unforgettable scenes in New York City on television, James realized he needed to take a leap of faith to pursue his passion. He decided to leave his lucrative corporate job to pursue music full-time in January 2002. The decision changed his life forever. James restarted his music career and quickly became a mainstay on the Nashville music scene. A true believer in the power of music, James says he is grateful that his life has been deeply altered by music, by songs. "A song can make you laugh when you are in desperate need of a smile; make you cry when your heart has felt like stone for years; and, maybe most importantly, make you feel like you’re not alone.” In 2007, James began to spread this message by inviting his songwriting friends to share the stage for in-the-round

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Nashvillesinger/songwriter,

JP Williams

Singer/songwriter, James David Carter was a contestant onThe Voice in 2014

New York saxophonist,Matt Blanchard,has performed on The Late Show with David Letterman and will be performing at all Home by Dark shows this season

James Casto,Home By Dark Founder

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songwriting shows. Thus was the birth of HOME BY DARK. Casto notes, “Our goal each night at HOME BY DARK is to reach your heart, make you feel something, and prove that a song can change your life.” The show has steadily grown into a sold-out series at Chukkar Farm in Alpharetta. Some of the past guest performers have written songs for Garth Brooks, Chicago, Blake Shelton, Kelly

Clarkson, Sara Evans, Stevie Nicks, Kenny Chesney, Sister Hazel, M i ra n d a L a m b e r t , Trisha Yearwood, and m o r e . T h e i r g u e s t i n s t r u m e n t a l i s t s have performed on the David Lettermen Show, at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Disney, and around the world. Home By Dark supports a different nonprofit partner at each performance. The June 13 show b e n e f i t e d 9 t h grader Remington Y o u n g b l o o d ’ s Change 4 Georgia, a local organization who’s mission is to “serve those who are serving us”, by providing s t u d e n t s w i t h opportunities to thank soldiers and veterans for their service, dedication

a n d s a c r i f i c e in keeping the country safe. They work with Home by Dark and The Fresh Market Suwane for their initiative "Applauding Heroes," which gives a special date night to military couples. The Fresh Market provides a picnic dinner which Change 4 Georgis delivers, and then attends a Home by Dark concert. Remington shared, "they deserve our thoughts, prayers and support and we are here to give them all three." Change4Georgia has raised over $1 million to date. For more information, visit change4georgia.org. The Suwanee Fresh Market supports both Home By Dark and Change 4 Georgia in multiple ways, including providing food for the artists before the performances. General Manager Jim Healy shared that he and his wife Linda have attended every Home By Dark concert since they found out about it. “Each one is different, bringing different artists to the stage. We love it,” shared Linda.

Creating authentic

musical experiences

that leave audiences

with something

meaningful is what

Home By Dark is

really all about

- James Casto,Founder of Home by Dark

Concert Series


“Creating authentic musical experiences that leave audiences with something meaningful is what Home By Dark is really all about,” said Founder James Casto. “As songwriters, our hope is that people truly connect with the lyrics, and these concerts give audiences a firsthand look at the stories behind some of their favorite songs.” Upcoming Gwinnett shows are September 12 and December 17. Visit Home By Dark’s website for more information or to purchase tickets: homebydark.com. ■Vocalists Carole Ford with sister, Vanessa Conner

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Remington Youngblood, founder of Change 4 Georgia, (the night's benefiting charity), spoke about his

group's mission: providing students with opportunities to thank soldiers and veterans for their service,

dedication and sacrifice in keeping the country safe.


Suwanee SculpTour is back! And the fourth annual exhibit is bigger than ever! The 2015-2017 SculpTour brings more art pieces, features more local artists, and includes the largest sculpture yet to be featured in Suwanee - “Dancer XX” by Jack Howard-Potter standing at 20 feet tall and weighing in at 2,700 pounds. Alongside the 20 foot tall dancer, this year’s free, mile-long, outdoor art tour features 17 sculptures in total, ranging from: a herd of goats to a 7 foot tall steel horse; a silhouette of a cow; a 12 foot archway; a variety of contemporary and abstract designs; and an intricately designed gate. A program of the Public Arts Commission, Suwanee SculpTour is supported through private donations. Be sure to vote for your favorite SculpTour art piece at suwanee.com, because in 2017 (providing that funds are available), the City of Suwanee will add at least one SculpTour piece to its permanent art collection. We, at Suwanee Magazine, are proud sponsors of the “Sunflower Gate” by Andrew T. Crawford: an 8-foot tall, 300 pound, ornamental gate with a beautiful sunflower design, fabricated from forged stainless steel. ■

Andrew Crawford is renowned for his creation of functional objects and unique, ornamental gates - such as this one. You may also recognize his work throughout the Atlanta Botanical Garden, including the main gate at the entrance. In fact, his work can be seen at many public and

private properties throughout metro Atlanta, including: the memorial garden at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, Georgia Museum of Art, and Brenau University’s Performing Arts Center, to name a few. Crawford graduated from the Rhode Island School of Design and returned to Atlanta in 1993 to open his workshop and studio, the Andrew T Crawford Ironworks. His goal: to create functional objects with an emphasis on blacksmithing - while working primarily in bronze, iron and steel. Today, he employs four full-time craftsmen who collaborate with him in making sculptures and functional objects of original design for schools, businesses, municipalities and private properties throughout the US. For more information and photos of their work, visit andrewtcrawford.com and ironisking.com.

The Fourth annualSuwanee SculpTour puts original outdoor sculptures on display in downtown Suwanee

‘Sunflower Gate’by Andrew T. Crawford

ANDREW CRAWFORD

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Actor’s Edge Community Players bring audiences “Into the Woods”Fairy tales are quite interesting and fun when it comes to looking at a single classic tale. However, what happens when some of your favorite fairy tale characters meet? Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk), the Witch, and many others meet in the whimsical fractured fairytale Into the Woods, Jr. which will be put on by the Actor’s Edge Community Players on July 24th, 25th, and 26th. “We invite you to join us for this exciting experience! So many wonderfully talented young

actors from our community are working so hard to entertain you with this magical story.” says Patricia McKeon, owner of The Actor’s Edge and director of the production. Into the Woods, Jr. is a Rated G show making it appropriate for the whole family to attend. There will be 4 performances of Into The Woods, Jr. at Mountain View High School, located at 2351 Sunny Hill Rd, Lawrenceville 30043. On Friday and Saturday, the performances will be held at 7:00pm, and there will be performances at 2:00pm on Saturday and Sunday. You can purchase tickets by visiting theActorsEdge.com and clicking on Buy Tickets or by calling 770-846-6721. Tickets are $12.00 each. Into The Woods, Jr., a part of The Broadway Junior Collection, is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). The book is written by James Lapine and the music and lyrics are by Stephen Sondheim. James Lapine originally directed Into the Woods. Jr. on Broadway. ■

It’s time to gear up for another exciting performance. On July 24th and 25th, Suwanee Performing Arts (SPA) will be bringing Ian Fleming’s CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG to Town Center Park. This marks the ninth annual Broadway in the Park. SPA will also be producing THE FINISH LINE, an original one act musical that tells the story of racing-fanatic Penelope as she finds true love in 1917 London. Based on the beloved 1968 film version of Ian Fleming's children's book, CHITTY CHITTY BANG BANG the musical follows the zany adventures of inventor Caractacus Potts (played by Gabriel Ferrari), his beloved Truly Scrumptious (Natalie Minter), Caractacus’ father (Christopher Miller) and children Jemima (Charlotte Wearne) and Jeremy (Luke Wilborn) in the magical flying car of the title, as they outwit a child-hating Baron and Baroness and their Child-Catcher henchman. THE FINISH LINE, written by SPA founders Berneta Bock Davis and Patricia Etherton with original music composed by Elise Etherton and arranged by Kai Bassett, tells the story of Penelope, a young lady coming of age in 1917 London. Penelope has a passion for all-things racing and no interest in landing a husband, much to the dismay of her family who is actively trying to marry her off to a suitable young man. While commiserating with a friend in his auto

repair shop, she meets a kindred spirit - a handsome American fella - who has been working under a car. This is the story of young love and destiny flying in the face of conventional norms. Broadway in the Park is a family-friendly free event, and is scheduled to begin at 7:00 pm on July 24th and July 25th in Suwanee Town Center Park. Reserved premium seating/tables for Corporate and Patron Sponsors or general admission “sitting-room-only” space near the front of the stage is available for a tax-deductible donation to SPA. More details about the reserved premium and up-front seating can be found at SuwaneePerformingArts.org or by calling 678-482-6333. ■

SPA brings 9th annual Broadway in the Park to Town Center


Congratulations to the 2015 North Gwinnett Arts Association (NGAA) college scholarship winners: Ethan Koop and Jaylon Smith from Brookwood High School, and Mackenzie Lynn Ives from Grayson High School.

NGAA Awards Scholarshipsto College-Bound Students

Scholarship recipient, Ethan Koop plans to attend Syracuse University to

study illustration

Jaylon Smith plans to attend SCAD in Atlanta to pursue graphic design

Mackenzie Ives plans to attend Georgia College & State University as an art major

Each year, NGAA is proud to present three scholarships to college-bound high school students planning to major in the field of visual arts. These three, talented students were awarded $1,500 towards their college education and pursuit ofthe arts. The NGAA awards the Rosemary Benavides Williams Student Arts Scholarship (RBW Student Arts Scholarship) to college-bound high school graduates majoring or planning to major in the field of visual arts. Each applicant was judged primarily on artistic talent and/or potential, and the degree of interest and enthusiasm for the arts. Funds raised for the RBW Student Arts Scholarship come from our award-winning events: Suwanee Arts in the Park and Suwanee Classic Car Show. ■

The North Gwinnett Arts Association and Hans Fräbel will be exhibiting some of Fräbel's handblown glass creations at Suwanee City Hall from June 19-Sept. 1. Frabel's Seven Sins and Virtues creations will be displayed upstairs and some of his other works will be displayed downstairs. The NGAA hosted an open reception and invited the public to hear Fräbel speak at their June 25th meeting. The exhibit consists of 14 sculptures depicting the Sins and Virtues. There are also various smaller sculptures from the Fräbel Studio collection, as well as one floral botanical from one of the three Botanical Garden series of sculptures. The Sins and Virtues series was created in response to the annual challenge of what Fräbel will do next. He is a 'founding father' of the modern flameworker art glass industry, his specialty or niche being the hollow figurative form, creating hollow forms without the use of a cast or mold. The idea of the Sins and Virtues sculptures came from the

Fräbel Studio artistic director, who pitched the idea to Fräbel who agreed to take the challenge. Hans Godo Fräbel was born in

1941 in Jena, Germany. Events in the tumultuous post WWII years in Europe resulted in the exodus of Fräbel’s family to Wertheim City in West Germany. There, Fräbel’s father and a colleague founded a scientific glass factory. Subsequently, Fräbel’s

father became the controller at the well-known Jena Glaswerke in Mainz West Germany and there he encouraged Fräbel to begin a Lehransbildung Program as a scientific glassblower. Within three years, at the age of 18, young Hans received his Gzhilfenbrief, a rigorous apprenticeship diploma awarded for mastery in the trade of scientific glass blowing. Among his professors and peers at Jena Glaswerke, he was called ‘Mr. Fast Hands’ for his extraordinary command of technique and artistry with flame and glass. In 1965, Fräbel traveled to Atlanta, where he took a position in the scientific glass blowing

laboratory at the Georgia Institute of Technology. There, he began to further expand his creative education and to fulfill his own artistic expression. He studied art at both Emory University and Georgia State University. His creative glass gained a following among professors, colleagues and friends. Thus an expanding circle of recognition began for Fräbel Glass Art. Encouraged and affirmed by positive responses and economic success, Fräbel established the Fräbel Glass Art Studio in 1968. At this time, torch glass was disdained as a valid or ‘serious’ medium for creative or Fine Art. Fräbel’s persistent endeavors and successful experimentation helped to change this narrow bias. In 1979, Fräbel’s ‘Pop Art’ sculpture “Hammer and Nails” was exhibited as the feature work in the internationally acclaimed New Glass Art Exhibition, which then traveled to major museums throughout the world. Today, Fräbel art pieces can be found in public and private collections in over 80 countries worldwide. Some of the more notable collectors of Fräbel glass art are Queen Elizabeth II, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan, Jimmy Carter, Ronald Reagan, Margaret Thatcher, Anwar Sadat, as well as museums in London, Paris, Tokyo, Dresden, Valencia, Corning, San Francisco, New York, Washington D. C., and now City Hall in Suwanee, GA! ■

NGAA welcomes Seven Sins and Virtues exhibit to City Hall

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Fräbel is a ‘Founding Father’ of the modern flameworker art glass industry, his specialty

or niche being the hollow figurative

form, creating hollow forms without the

use of a cast or mold.

This is the first time that all 14 sculptures in the series have been displayed together, in their entirety


learnnews from the suwanee schools universe

Tomorrow's Hope Montessori School creates a safe and nuturingenvironment for students to excel in Suwanee

After years of preparation, planning, construction and anticipation: Suwanee’s newest school, Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori on Peachtree Industrial, is now open! With programs for children from infancy through age 6, Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori focuses on developing a natural curiosity and love of learning that starts at a very early age and extends through adulthood. Their mission: to provide a safe, nurturing environment where all children are encouraged to explore and learn at their fullest potential.

Wynne Adcock, Director of Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori School, brings over fifteen years of experience in early childhood education and a desire to “invest in Suwanee,” she said. “We

want to make sure everyone feels safe and welcomed here. We have tried to make things as aesthetically pleasing as possible with the Montessori curriculum in mind,” she continued. A safe and nurturing environment is of utmost

importance at Tomorrow’s Hope. A lot of time and research was spent deciding on both the physical location of the school and it’s instructors. “When looking at a Montessori School, it is

A New

HOPEBY: Mackenzie Stephenson / PHOTOS BY: Karl Lamb

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important to make sure the teachers have had proper training and experience in Montessori education,” Adcock advised prospective parents. And, at Tomorrow’s Hope, each hand-selected instructor brings years of experience, credentials and/or a Master’s Degree in Montessori education. At Tomorrow’s Hope the goal is to “partner with parents in the care and education of their children” in a safe and fun learning environment. It’s important that parents and children feel equally secure and confident when dropped off at school. As a new establishment, Adcock gave us some firsthand insight as to what that process of opening a new business in Suwanee looks like. “It was very lengthy. We started looking for facilities that were already established,” she explained. But, when they could not locate the perfect place for a new school, they

Tomorrow’s Hope mission:to provide a safe, nurturing environment where all children are encouraged to explore and learn at their fullest potential.

Wynne Adcock,Director, Tomorrow's Hope

Motessori School

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set out to build one instead. “It was challenging to juggle construction while also trying to set the culture for business…much more complicated than moving into an already-existent building,” Adcock admitted. “But, the City of Suwanee is extremely helpful. There was always someone willing to answer any questions we had,” she continued. As a member of the Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce, Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori is already taking initiative towards community involvement. Fostering a sense of responsibility in children, as members of a larger community, is one of the

educational goals at Tomorrow’s Hope and one that staff members personally take to heart as well. The faculty at Tomorrow’s Hope Montessori is very excited about being part of the growing Suwanee community and proud of what they have to offer. They are hoping that people will see what Tomorrow’s Hope is capable of providing: a program that extends beyond traditional education to serve both parents and children. For more information or to apply for enrollment, visit tomorrowshopemontessori.com. ■

The officialribbon-cutting ceremony took place on June 6, 2015. Tomorrow’s Hope is now enrolling students for the 2015-2016school year

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news and events from in and around suwanee.

In People & Places...

PHOTO BY:Karl Lamb

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In People & Places...

PHOTO BY:Karl Lamb

THE BUZZ 72 / PEOPLE & PLACES 76 EVENT CALENDAR 86

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PHOTO BY:Karl Lamb

70 I Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com I JULY / AUG 1572 I Suwanee Magazine I suwaneemagazine.com I JULY / AUG 15

We are very honored to announce thatSuwanee Magazine recently won a 2015 APEX Awardfor Publication Excellence in the Magazine Design &Layout category! Suwanee Magazine is designedand published by Veugeler Design Group: a local,award-winning, graphic design studio. What started as a 24-page community magazine has since grown into a 90+ page, full-scale publication that reaches over 50,000 readers throughout Suwanee and surrounding cities. We really put our hearts into each and every issue of the magazine. It is such a rewarding experience to see how people look forward to reading the magazine, how much they appreciate the professional quality and design, and how local businesses in Suwanee are growing because of it. So, thank you for your continued support – we wouldn’t be here without you!

Over 400 kids and 150 volunteers made the "Journey Off the Map" VBS at Shadowbrook Baptist Church a huge success! It was a fun-filled week with worship rally music, theme-focused snacks and crafts, a helicopter from GPS landing in the parking lot and Bible stories. Mission offerings for the week totaled $4000 and

will be split between the Kibaale School in Uganda and the Metro NY Baptist Association. One of the

highlights was Family Fun Night where hundreds of families came out in the rain to enjoy free

hotdogs from the Varsity, dunk tanks, popcorn, inflatables, face painting and much more. By

the end of the night the sun was out and a rainbow arched over the event: a perfect

conclusion to Shadowbrook VBS 2015!

Vacation Bible School at Shadowbrook Baptist Church

Suwanee MagazineWins Award for Magazine Design and Layout

Congratulations to the NGBSA North Gwinnett - White 13U AA Travel baseball team for bringing home the County Championship to North Gwinnett! This first year travel team defied the odds and defeated Brookwood 6-5, 7-6 in the Greater Gwinnett Baseball League Championship. “This is a big time accomplishment for a first year travel baseball team. I’m very proud of them,” said Head Coach, Vince DeSilva. The community is grateful to have such a talented, young group of athletes representing Gwinnett, and we’re excited to see how far they’ll go.

North Gwinnett Youth Baseball Team Wins County Championship

BACK ROW: Miguel Hernandez, Carter Patton, Matthew Nolan, Tanner Chunn, Jake Stone, Faxon Childress, Avery Schimmel, Ethan Banan,

Jake DeSilva, Austin Taussig, Sam Lally, Kaden Kottemann

FRONT ROW: Dan Lally, Coach, Addam Taussig, Associate Head Coach, Vince DeSilva, Head Coach, Jeff Schimmel, Coach

PHOTO BY: ADRIENNE BUTLER

The wings aren’t the only things that will be flavorful at Suwanee’s August Concert & Wing Festival on August 8. Soul Asylum will serve up a tangy musical performance, especially if you

came of age during the late ’80s/early ’90s alternative rock/grunge era. After forming in Minneapolis in 1981, Soul Asylum, known for its first two years as Loud Fast Rules, was a frontrunner of American

college rock and garnered a reputation as the country’s best live band. Mid-1980s audiences were struck, according to online sources, by “the band’s onstage swagger, scruffy Midwestern appearance, and extremely loud, frenetic sound – mixing tuneful but unrestrained punk, hardcore 1970s rock, country, and self-effacing kitsch.” “Runaway Train,” from Soul Asylum’s sixth album, Grave Dancers Union, released in 1992, became the band’s biggest hit, peaking at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Other hits include “Somebody to Shove,” “Black Gold,” and “Misery.” Thirty-one years after releasing its first album, Soul Asylum is promoting a new studio album on its Facebook and PledgeMusic.com page. Suwanee’s August Concert and Wing Festival on August 8th will begin at 5 p.m. at Town Center Park. Headline performer, Soul Asylum will take the stage around 8 p.m.

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‘90’s Band Soul Asylum toRock Suwanee Wing Fest

After recently winning the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for the 2nd year in a row, Lanier Islands has more exciting news! With the 4th of July bringing with it a sense of patriotism, the Williams family is generously inviting active duty military personnel and law enforcement officers to enjoy complimentary daily admission to LanierWorld starting July 1st and continuing throughout the remainder of the 2015 summer season - which ends September 13. The only requirement is to show a valid military or law enforcement ID at the entrance gate to LanierWorld. This special invitation comprises law enforcement officers and all five branches of the Armed Forces, including Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard, as well as Army Reserves and National Guard. This is a way for the Williams family to say ‘Thank You’ to all of the men and women who work hard to keep us safe every day. For more information on Lanier Islands, visit lanierislands.com.

Lanier Islands thanks Active Duty Military and Law Enforcement with Complimentary Admission to LanierWorld

The Longstreet Clinic, P.C., is pleased to announce Jeffery P. Garrett, M.D., has joined their comprehensive practice, OrthoTLC.

Garrett earned his medical degree from the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, and completed his residency in orthopedic surgery at Wake Forest University, where he also served as a NIH Research Fellow. Board- certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery, he specializes in anterior approach hip replacement, total and partial knee replacement, orthopedic trauma, and numerous other musculoskeletal conditions.

OrthoTLC provides the most comprehensive bone, joint and sports care in the area with eight board-certified/

eligible surgeons and six advanced practice providers across their five locations in Northeast Georgia. To schedule an appointment, call678-207-HIPS(4477) or for more information, visit orthoTLC.com.

The Longstreet Clinic Welcomes New Orthopedic Surgeon

the buzz

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Infinite Home of Suwanee Awarded Big50Suwanee residents David and Laurel Mullikin of Infinite Home were awarded the Big50 Remodelers Award on May 7. The award was presented to the couple at the annual Remodeling Leadership dinner and gala in Washington DC, and is given by Hanley Wood’s Remodeling Magazine. Infinite Home specializes in renovations and design, and just opened their new design studio in Suwanee Plaza on 1300 Peachtree Industrial Blvd in Suwanee. The Big50 is a national remodeling business excellence award for

best practices in the home industry. The companies awarded this have set the standard for professionalism and integrity through smart marketing, exemplary business practices, unique design and extraordinary impact on their community. They run successful, growing companies of various sizes that have taken the lead in raising the standards of the industry. “Laurel and I are honored

to receive this award on behalf of our entire team,” said David Mullikin. “We are all working hard to build a company that delivers the most value possible to our clients, and while we are extremely happy with what our team has accomplished thus far we believe the best is yet to come.” To learn more about Infinite Home and see some of their work, visit them online at infinitehomellc.com.

Founded in 1985, the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia (CFNEG) was established to receive and distribute charitable funds for an improved quality of life across Northeast Georgia. In honor of the 30 year anniversary of the foundation, the Grants Committee decided to award at least 30 grants in honor of their establishment, which to date has given over 56 million dollars back to the community.

Julie Keeton Arnold, the 2015 Grants Committee Chair shared, “It shines light on real needs in our community that many of us don’t know exist. While it’s never an easy task to decide where our limited resources should go, it is so rewarding to know that our dollars are invested in ways that make a real impact in the lives of so many across our community. “At the end of the grant cycle, and after 8 weeks of deliberation, the Grant Committee award 33 non-profit organizations with grants totaling the amount of $160,217.

The foundation will celebrate their 30th anniversary on August 22nd at the Gwinnett Center. To learn more about the work of the foundation, visit cfneg.org.

Community Foundation Awards 33 Grants in Honor of 30th Anniversary

Friends American Grill has been recognized as a finalist in the IMPACT Regional Business Awards. Presented by BB&T and hosted by the Gwinnett Chamber, IMPACT Regional Business Awards recognizes exemplary organizations from within the community and across the metro-Atlanta area that are driving economic development, job creation and enhancing the communities quality of life. These businesses “represent the creativity, determination, and engagement of

our business community,” stated Dr. Dan Kaufman, President & CEO of the Gwinnett Chamber. Owners of Friends American Grill, Ray Stenjevich and Suzanne Cartwright are honored to be recognized for their work saying; “Our ability to grow and create jobs has been supported by both our energetic employees and our loyal customers. We look forward to Friends contributing in meaningful ways.”

FRIENDS AMERICAN GRILL Named IMPACT Regional Business Awards Finalist

Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia to date has given over $56,000,000 back to the community

L to R: Angela Allif, John Maldonado, David Mullikin, Laurel Mullikin,Sara Gabrell and David Crabtree of Infinite Home, LLC.

&people placeson the scene...


Memorial Day EventFriday, May 23rd, 2015

TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS:

Karl Lamb

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Come on Get Happy PromFriday, May 8th, 2015

GWINNETT CHURCH

PHOTOS:

Amanda Coker with Dash Photography


SBA May 2015 MeetingWednesday, May 13th, 2015

SUWANEE PIZZA TAVERN

PHOTOS:

Julie Perdue

SBA June 2015 MeetingWednesday, June 10th, 2015

TANNERY ROW ALE HOUSE

PHOTOS:

Angela Veugeler

Woofstock 2015Saturday, May 9th, 2015

TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS: Karl Lamb

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people & places

Arts In The ParkSaturday, May 16th, 2015

TOWN CENTER PARK

PHOTOS:

Karl Lamb

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SBA Golf TournamentTuesday, April 28th, 2015

BEARS BEST

PHOTOS:

Angela Veugeler

Penn Station Grand OpeningThursday, June 4th, 2015

PHOTOS:

Julie Perdue

calendarupcoming suwanee area events


July 2015July 1st

thruSept 30th

July 1st thru

Sept 1st

July 7th thru

Aug 18th

Toddler Trek TuesdaysJuly 7th ..............Fun with FrogsJuly 21st ............ Mud Pie MagicAug. 4th ......Smelling the ForestAug. 18th ............. Firefly FrenzyGwinnett Environmental& Heritage CenterInteractive, outdoor program for children 18 months – 3 years old $6/child Pre-register atgwinnettehc.org/calendar

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Suwanee Farmers MarketSaturdays 8:00am-12:00pmTown Center Park

Hans Frabel Exhibiton displayJuly 1st-September 1stSuwanee City Hall

Sparks in the ParkCity of Sugar HillJuly 3rd 6:00pm-10:00pmE.E. Robinson ParkFireworks, inflatables, food, drinks,live entertainment

"Duluth Celebrates America", Annual Independence Day Festival July 3rd 6:00pm-11:00pmDuluth Town Green

Independence Day!July 4th

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Bat SeminarJuly 16th 7:00pmWild Birds Unlimited,Suwaneefor more information visit wbu.com/Suwanee

Birds of Prey ShowsJuly 18th 11:00am & 1:00pmWild Birds Unlimited,Suwaneefor more information visit wbu.com/Suwanee

Georgia Tarheel Sports Presents Cheyenne's Faith 5K/Fun RunJuly 18th 8:00amTown Center ParkFor more information,call 678-523-9942or email [email protected]

Movies Under the Stars Double Feature July 18th 7:00pmTown Center ParkFamily movie @ 7 pm; second moviewill start about 8:45 pm

Broadway in the Park presents Chitty Chitty Bang BangJuly 24th-25th 7:00pmTown Center ParkFor more information, visit suwaneeperformingarts.org

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August 2015

1 Braves Gameon the GreenAugust 1st 5:00pmTown Center ParkActivities start @ 5 pm; Braves vs. Phillies @ 7 pm

Food Truck FridayAugust 7th 5:30pm-9:30pmTown Center ParkMusic starts @ 7 pm

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August Concert &Wing FestivalAugust 8th 5:00pmTown Center ParkFeaturing Soul Asylum

First Day of SchoolAugust 10thGwinnett County

Gwinnett Road Raceand Skylar's Run*August 15th 8:00amTown Center ParkTo register, visit: https://runsignup.com/Races


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August 2015

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17th Annual Bulldog Dash 5k and Fun RunAugust 15th 8:00amNorth GwinnettHigh SchoolTo register, visit active.com

Thin Mint Sprint 5K/1M*August 22nd 8:00amTown Center ParkThis family-fun event features a 5K race (Peachtree qualifier) and 1-mile fun run. Team outfits and costumes are encouraged.

For more information, visit: http://thinmintsprintlani.wix.com/-thin-mint-sprint

Movies Under the StarsDouble FeatureAugust 29th 7:00pmTown Center ParkFamily movie @ 7 pm;second movie will startabout 8:45 pm

Beach Party Luncheon with authors Mary Kay Andrews and Patti Callahan Henry presented by Gwinnett County Public LibraryAugust 19th 12:00pmGarden Plazain LawrencevillePurchase tickets online at friendsgcpl.org

29Double FeatureAugust 29th 7:00pmTown Center ParkFamily movie @ 7 pm;second movie will start

suwanee magazine july august 2015

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