Vol. 5 No. 4 Feb 12 2021

A community divided?

Rally draws crowd in support of GCPS superintendent as petitions call for his resignation — Page 7 —

Friday, February 12, 2021 Vol. 5, No. 4 • 16 Pages • FREE Your Town. Your Paper. Your Voice.

Reader of the Week Carsyn Hunter

Carsyn Hunter is an avid reader who has exceeded her advanced reading goal all three quarters of the school year, making her an excellent selection for Reader of the Week.

Carsyn is in third grade and her teachers are Mrs. Humble and Mrs. Wilcox.

Carsyn’s favorite books are the Junie B. Jones series by her favorite author, Barbara Parks. She enjoys the series because Junie B. has a unique way of doing things. Carsyn also enjoys the Heidi Heckelbeck series by Wanda Coven and Priscilla Burris because of the cool things Heidi does with potions and spells.

Carsyn’s family includes her dad, Edward Hunter Jr., mom Cassie Hunter, sister Edisis, who is 18, and brother Edward III, 14.

Carsyn loves to play sports, particularly softball, where she plays third base and shortstop, and basketball, where she plays low block and wing. She enjoys reading and writing in her spare time and she’s flexible enough to do splits and backbends!

“Carsyn is a very confident young lady. Just sitting and talking to her you can see that she is well-versed and way beyond her third grade years,” said Lana Nix, media specialist for Buford Academy. “Carsyn has a sweet smile and a very kind heart.”

Congratulations, Carsyn, and keep up the reading!

— Deanna Allen

The following reports were filed by the Gwinnett County Police Department between Jan. 22-Feb. 5, 2021.

• Simple assault was reported in the 1200 block of Castleberry Drive, 2100 block of Shoal Creek Road NE and 500 block of Ruth Court NE. Buford addresses.

• Gwinnett police responded to a report of battery in the 1500 block of Laurel Crossing Parkway NE in Buford.

• Reports of simple battery were filed in the 3200 block of Northcliff Drive NW in Suwanee, 5300 block of Regency Lake Court NE in Sugar Hill, 5000 block of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard in Buford, 1600 block of Marakanda Trail in Buford, 1800 block of Brickton Station NE in Buford, 3000 block of Pebblebrook Drive in Buford, 2500 block of Mill Center Parkway NE in Buford, 4600 block of Candlewyck Way NE in Buford, 1400 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard NE in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford and 3500 block of Mystic Drive in Buford.

• A report of sexual battery was filed in the 2400 block of Peachtree Industrial Boulevard NE in Buford.

CRIME LOG

• A DUI arrest for alcohol was made in the Hillcrest Drive NE/Hillcrest Glenn Drive NE area of Sugar Hill.

• A non-forced entry, non-residential burglary was reported in the 4400 block of Commerce Drive NE in Buford.

• Gwinnett police responded to a report of illegal discharge of forearms in the 3400 block of Bigleaf Court in Buford.

• Reports of criminal damage in the second degree were made in the 4200 block of Suwanee Mill Drive NE, 4400 block of Commerce Drive NE, 4500 block of Signal Ridge Court NE and 1100 block of Ball Park Lane NE. Buford addresses.

• Disorderly conduct was reported in the 2000 block of Buford Dam Road in Buford.

• Gwinnett police responded to reports of larceny — theft by taking in the 5400 block of Maltdie Court NE in Sugar Hill, 2600 block of Buford Dam Road NE in Buford, 3200 block of Woodward Crossing Boulevard NE in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford, 2900 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford, and 3200 block of Buford Drive in Buford.

• Reports of larceny — theft by deception were made in the 900 block of Croftmoore Landing

Restaurant inspections

The following restaurant health inspection scores were pulled from the Georgia Department of Health between Jan. 25-Feb. 5, 2021.

• Anjoo — 525 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Suite

I Suwanee; 87

• Chili’s Grill and Bar — 5851 Spout Springs Road, Flowery Branch; 92

• Diner at Sugar Hill — 4500 Nelson Brogdon Blvd Sugar Hill; 90

• Domino’s Pizza — 6072 High 53, Suite A, Braselton; 84

• Dunkin Donuts and Baskin Robbins — 4450 Nelson Brogdon Blvd Buford; 91

• Great American Cookies and Marble Slab Creamery — 6323 Grand Hickory Dr Suite 100E Braselton; 96

• Italy’s Pizza and Pasta — 2590 Hamilton Mill Rd Suite 106 Buford; 100

• Main Street Deli — 60 E Main St NE Buford; 100

• Ninja Steak House — 2115 Hamilton Creek Pkwy Suite 106 Dacula; 92

• Praise the Lord BBQ — 1350 Buford Hwy NE Suite 109 Buford; 100

• Shogun Japanese Steak House — 5855 Spout Springs Road, Ste A401, Flowery Branch; 98

• Smokey Bones — 3333 Buford Dr Suite VB01C Buford; 83

• Subway 19410 — 5965 Cumming Hwy NE

Suite 310 Sugar Hill; 96

• Sugar Hill Subs — 4450 Nelson Brogdon Blvd Suite A8 Buford; 90

• Sushi Niko Niko Hibachi — 3260 Buford Dr

Suite 20 and 30 Buford; 88

• Taco Bell #30597 — 4291 GA-20 Buford; 92

• Waffle House — 5536 McEver Road, Flowery Branch; 93

in Suwanee, 4200 block of Suwanee Bend Drive NE in Suwanee, 4900 block of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard NE in Sugar Hill and 2000 block of Appling Circle NE in Sugar Hill.

• Motor vehicle thefts were reported in the 1300 block of Buford Highway NE in Sugar Hill, 2700 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford, 3200 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford and 2900 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• Reports of entering autos/larceny of articles from vehicles were filed in the 5000 block of W Broad Street in Sugar Hill, 4400 block of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard NE in Sugar Hill, 2000 block of Windridge Drive NE in Buford, 3200 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford, 2900 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford and 3400 block of Kentwater Drive NE in Buford.

• Gwinnett police responded to a report of larceny of parts from a vehicle in the 2400 block of Creek Park Drive NE in Suwanee.

• Reports of theft by shoplifting were filed in the 4100 block of Buford Drive NE, 3700 block of Buford Drive NE, 1900 block of Buford Mill Drive NE, 4100 block of Buford Drive NE and 3300 block of Buford Drive NE

(two reports). Buford addresses.

The following reports were filed by the Hall County Sheriff’s Office between Jan. 22-Feb. 5, 2021.

• A death investigation was conducted in the 5800 block of County Court in Buford.

• Deputies responded to a report of terroristic threats and acts in the 6700 block of Holiday Point in Buford.

• A DUI arrest for alcohol was made in the 6800 block of Lights Ferry Road in Flowery Branch.

• Reports of theft by taking — greater than $1,500 were filed in the 4700 block of Stone Summit Way and 4900 block of B U Bowman Drive. Buford addresses.

• Reports of theft by taking — less than $1,500 were made in the 4800 block of Stone Path Way in Buford and 6500 block of Bluewaters Drive in Flowery Branch.

• Theft of service was reported in the 5400 block of Orchard Way in Buford.

• Deputies responded to a report of entering an auto to commit a theft in the 5800 block of County Court in Buford.

Buford Commission meeting minutes — February 2021

Staff Reports

February 1, 2021 — Commission Chairman Phillip Beard called the meeting to order at 7 p.m. at the Buford Arena. Following the Pledge of Allegiance, the agenda and minutes from the Jan. 4, 2021, meeting were approved.

A public hearing was held for four parcels of land totaling 35.461 acres located at 2045 Buford Highway. Three of the four parcels were zoned C-2 and one was zoned O-I. The applicant, IDI Logistics, asked for rezoning to M-1 to allow for a 495,000-square-foot warehouse facility. Ewing Motor Company will be moving up Buford Highway near Friendship Road. There were no objections from the audience. The applicant agreed to several conditions that commissioners wanted for the prop-

erty. The four requests were approved.

Another rezoning request was presented to the commission. This one is for 8.04 acres located at 909 Gainesville Highway. The applicant, Lanier Logistics Center LLC, requests that the property be rezoned from M-1 to C-2 to allow for future commercial development. Part of the property is slated to be the new location for Ewing Motor Company. With no objections from the audience, the commission approved the request. Accompanying this rezoning request was a request for a special use permit to allow for Ewing Motor Company (Michael Ewing) to operate a car lot on 3.52 acres located at 909 Gainesville Highway. The request was approved.

A zoning variance was requested to allow for a larger home on a smaller lot at the corner

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Staff Writers: Joy W. Fowler

Nida Merchant

Anoshka Ramkumar

Hayden Wiggs

Emily Hammond

Torin Smith

Jordan Askew

Greyson Watkins

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Printed

of Park Street and Scott Street as part of the Pentecostal Church property. The request was approved. The home will be occupied by the pastor of the church.

The chairman was authorized to enter into an agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for the acquisition of right of way for a federal or state aid project (Moreno Street). The chairman was authorized to enter into an agreement with MEAG Power on behalf of the city of Calhoun to purchase its excess power capacity. With existing housing units aging, the city is working to replace the units belonging to the Buford Housing Authority. The city of Buford is buying properties located on New Street and East Park Street from the Buford Housing Authority, while the city of Buford will sell its properties on Elliott Street and Arnold Street to the Buford Housing Authority to construct new units.

The commission authorized the city manager and the city attorney to purchase properties located at 590 Forest St. and 690 New St. The purchase of property located at 79 Moreno St. in the amount of $307,606.93 and property located at 79 S. Harris St. in the amount of $450,038.70 was ratified by the commission. These purchases are across from the new parking deck and the city wishes to improve the area. The commission authorized the transfer of city properties at 79 S. Harris St., 79 Moreno St., 96 W. Main St. and 106 W. Main St. to the Downtown Development Authority. It is anticipated that the DDA will sell the properties.

The 2021-2022 workers’ compensation policy was approved to be renewed. The premium decreased by approximately $15,000. The commission authorized the renewal of the 2021-2022 general liability and property insurance. The premium increased by ap-

Staff Photographers:

William Curtis

Cathy Moore

Jenny Johnson

proximately $47,000. The 2021-2022 Buford Community Center Theatre concert series, fall 2021 lawn concert and summer amphitheater concert series were approved with the understanding that due to the pandemic these could change. Two payments were authorized for the 2020 paving project.

City Manager Bryan Kerlin gave his update starting with COVID-19. The city lost a longtime city employee, Levon Thomas, due to the virus. Thomas worked with the city for 21 years and was a dedicated worker. Thomas had a great smile and welcoming spirit, Kerlin said.

The remaining fields under construction at the legion fields should be ready in March for spring baseball and softball. The youth basketball league final games were played Feb. 6. Tennis continues to see good participation.

Electric consumption is down 4.95 percent for the pandemic period, March through December 2020, as compared with the same period last year, but Kerlin said consumption is slowly returning to pre-COVID levels. Concerts are slowly coming back to the BCC and the concerts they have hosted have gone well with the decreased capacity. Mirrors are to be installed in the parking deck to allow motorists to see each other better as they navigate the curves. The city received four bids on Jan. 5 for the water plant expansion project. Electric, water and gas departments all have projects under various stages of construction.

Following Kerlin’s update, Chairman Beard asked the audience if anyone had anything they would like to bring before the commission. With no one bringing any additional business or comments to the commission, Beard adjourned the meeting. The next meeting will be March 1 at the Buford Arena.

Japanese manufacturer Makita purchases 80 acres in Hall County

David Griffin Staff Reports

Contributing Writers:

Lynn Bowman

Brandon Hembree

J. Alvin Wilbanks

The Japanese power tool manufacturer Makita purchased 80 acres in southern Hall County recently. The new acquisition will be just up the road from their plant in Buford that has been there for decades.

In a news release dated Feb. 8, 2021, from the American arm of the company, Makita USA Inc., which is based in California, mentioned the acquisition of the land in Hall County. However, the news release failed to

provide details as to the intended purpose of the land. The release stated that the site “is the target for planned future development to address continuing growth in the United States.”

The exact location of the new purchase for Makita was not mentioned in the news release nor does it show up in Hall County Property Records searches as of the date of this article. The news release also made no mention of the fate of the current Buford manufacturing plant, which is one of 10 such plants worldwide for Makita.

History: Remembering a Buford Dam hero’s contributions to Georgia

Brandon Hembree

Lake Sydney Lanier is a manmade lake that provides drinking water, hydroelectricity and recreation opportunities to residents in nearby cities like Sugar Hill, Gwinnett County and the rest of metro-Atlanta.

After years of careful planning and strategic property acquisition beginning in 1948 by the federal government, Lake Lanier was officially created in 1957 with the completion of Buford Dam by the Corps of Engineers. Construction of Buford Dam was a massive undertaking, and it took seven years to complete after the official groundbreaking ceremony on March 1, 1950. Nearly 5,000 spectators turned out to hear speeches from individuals like Mayor William Hartsfield and Governor Eugene Talmadge.

Completion of Buford Dam and Lake Lanier was a significant accomplishment. The project created good paying, but dangerous, jobs for thousands of men. One of these men was a resident of Sugar Hill, Johnnie Callahan, who tragically lost his life in the service of his fellow man. Today, he is remembered as a hero by his family and the community where he is laid to rest.

By 1954, much of the earthen

foundation of Buford Dam had been completed. More than 3.7 million cubic yards of earth and rock were used to build the dam. The first focus of construction was to complete the three saddle dike dams, which were constructed to bridge several hilltops. These smaller saddle dike dams were designed to help contain the water that would eventually fill Lake Lanier. The last saddle dike dam to be built was in Gwinnett County, and the first two were in Forsyth County. Bridging two additional hilltops

across the Chattahoochee River, the main dam was constructed next. A new channel was then cut to redirect the flow of water from the original channel to the powerhouse. One of the major projects underway in early 1954 was happening in the forebay area of the main dam, where tunnels were being drilled to later house the water intake structures and turbines. Despite frequent checks for loose rocks on the steep granite face on the upstream or Lake Lanier side of Buford, it was dangerous work.

Johnnie Callahan was employed by J.A. Jones Construction Company of Charlotte, North Carolina, and, by 1954, had lived in Sugar Hill for almost two years. He was a family man and the father of four girls and two boys. Johnnie, no doubt, would have appreciated the work even though it was dangerous. He would have felt the same pride of accomplishment as the other workers. They were all contributing toward the construction of an impressive and important structure that would benefit the surrounding community and all of Georgia.

History does not tell us everything that happened on March 16, 1954, but an article from the Atlanta Constitution on the following day provides us with some details regarding the tragic death of Johnnie Callahan. He was one of two individuals injured by falling rocks from a landslide. Leman Stone of Buford would survive with just a broken

ankle, but Johnnie, despite wearing a hardhat, would later pass away from head injuries at Cumming Hospital. Both were working at the base of a forebay cut on the Forsyth County side of Buford Dam, where an intake tunnel was being cut into the granite. The article reads, “... the rockslide presumably was caused by vibrations from the lowering of a bucket of concrete down the sheer side of the cut or a loosening of rocks as a result of change in weather conditions.” Some of the rocks, according to the Corps of Engineers, may have weighed as much as 20 pounds.

Johnnie Callahan’s death was tragic. Johnnie risked his life to earn a living for his family, and he risked his life to help build Buford Dam. He was a hero. Generations of his family will benefit from his contributions as a husband and father, and generations of Georgians will reap the benefits of Buford Dam.

WHERE NOW? are they

Dr. Lacrecia Smith is a BHS alumna from the class of 1988. Lacrecia was born and raised in Buford to her parents, Anna Sue Smith and Marcus Smith Sr. She has two siblings, Marcus Smith Jr. and Sonya Lott. Both of them are also BHS graduates of the classes of 1991 and 1985, respectively. Lacrecia started at Buford in 1975 at the half-day kindergarten, and she attended Buford City Schools until her graduation.

During her time at BHS, Lacrecia was an avid athlete, running track all four years of high school, as well as competing on the cross country team. She participated in the 1986 State track meet in the 200M race. Her 4x100 relay team held the school record at BHS for more than 20 years. In her senior year, Lacrecia received the scholar award and the coach’s award for track. In addition to athletics, Lacrecia was a member of the band from eighth to 12th grade, earning several first-place awards at band competitions. She also was a member of FBLA, BETA Club and the Talent Search Program.

Lacrecia remembers the day she first met the new principal, Mrs. Beauty Baldwin, when she was a fifth grader

Dr. Lacrecia Smith, Class of 1988

at Buford Middle School. She remembers how Mrs. Baldwin always carried herself with great poise, dignity and grace.

The phrase “representation matters” always stuck with Lacrecia. She always wanted to be like Mrs. Baldwin, and her presence always motivated Lacrecia to strive to be an even better student. After high school, Lacrecia attended Albany State University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in early childhood education in 1992. She also earned her Master of Education in early childhood education at Albany in 1996. She earned her Educational Specialist Degree in early childhood education at Brenau University in 2002 and recently,

she earned her Doctorate of Education in curriculum and instruction in 2019. While at Albany State University, Lacrecia earned a track scholarship. She also was an inaugural member of the college’s Kappa Delta Pi Inc. and a cum laude graduate.

Lacrecia works at the BCS Central Office as the Buford City Schools Diversity and Inclusion Manager and the Title III Instructional Coach. She chose to be an educator because of the rewarding nature of the job. She loves that she can see the fruits of her labor every day. As a teacher, Lacrecia uses the knowledge of her students’ cultural backgrounds, academic capabilities and the curriculum to create excitement and energy in her classroom. However, her favorite lessons are the ones that her students teach her.

In her free time, Lacrecia loves to spend time with her mother. They attend church and eat dinner together almost every Sunday. She also volunteers for various projects at her church, Union Baptist Church. Lacrecia is a proud member of the Gwinnett County Alumnae Chapter of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. She has served as a

volunteer on the Education Development Committee. Lacrecia also co-chaired EMBODI, a male mentoring program that sponsored a community event designed to bridge the gap between youth and the Gwinnett County Police Department. She is currently a part of the Risk Management Team.

Dr. Smith’s work in the Buford school system as a

teacher, mentor and coach, as well as local volunteer, constantly benefits the community that so lovingly raised her when she was in high school. Her outstanding achievements and impeccable character make her a role model for BCS students, and we are proud to call her a Buford High School alumna. Once a Wolf, always a Wolf! — Torin Smith

GCPS superintendent at forefront of community debate

Deanna Allen Rally draws supporters as two online petitions call for Wilbanks’ resignation or termination

A rally on Tuesday, Feb. 9, at the J. Alvin Wilbanks Instructional Support Center in Suwanee drew participants carrying signs in support of the facility’s namesake, Gwinnett County Public Schools Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks.

Signs reading phrases like “GCPS SAT rates increase with Wilbanks,” “Honor his contract,” “Wilbanks removed = all digital resumed” and “Removing Wilbanks = Wasting Taxpayers $” dotted the support center’s parking lot in the hands of rally attendees who oppose calls for Wilbanks’ resignation or termination and who support continued in-person education for Gwinnett County students.

Wilbanks was named CEO and superintendent of Gwinnett County Public Schools in March 1996. His current contract will come up for renewal in June 2022.

A flyer promoting the rally reads, “GCPS BOE members Mr. Blair, Ms. Watkins and Dr. Tarece (Johnson) will remove Superintendent Wilbanks without cause, in February, buying out his contract with your tax dollars. If successful, they will then close schools.”

The flyer refers to Everton Blair Jr., chairman of the board of education who represents District IV, Karen Watkins, vice chair representing District I and Dr. Tarece Johnson, who represents District V on the board.

Blair, Johnson and Steven Knudsen, who represents District II, did not respond to the North Gwinnett Voice’s attempts to contact them through phone calls and emails.

Watkins, who was reached Tuesday afternoon, declined to comment on calls for Wilbanks’ resignation or termination.

“It is the board as a whole that would be speaking on those types of questions and concerns,” she said.

The fifth board member, Dr. Mary Kay Murphy, spoke with the North Gwinnett Voice on Tuesday.

“Mr. Wilbanks has been an exemplary superintendent and any call for his resignation or termination is totally opposed to how he has performed for our school system the last 25 years,” said Murphy, who represents District III.

“The calls for his resignation pale in comparison to those calls that support him,” Murphy continued. She suggested community members look to graduation rates, Advance Placement mean score improvements and other statistics for confirmation of Wilbanks’

effectiveness as superintendent.

Also showing his support for Wilbanks was State Sen. Clint Dixon (R—Buford), who attended Tuesday’s rally. Dixon represents the 45th District, which includes portions of Gwinnett County.

On Jan. 29, Dixon authored a post on his Facebook page detailing his response to calls for Wilbanks’ resignation.

“His leadership has made Gwinnett Public Schools one of the most successful school systems in the country, and our schools are a significant part of what has made Gwinnett County a success,” Dixon wrote. “And I wholeheartedly oppose the unwise effort by some members of the Board of Education to terminate him.”

Two online petitions disagree.

A petition through actnow.io titled “End Superintendent Wilbanks’ Contract” had 421 signatures as of Thursday. The petition, which is signed by “The Concerned Stakeholders of Gwinnett County Public Schools” reads, “The Superintendent has an egregiously overpriced contract and unjustifiably lengthy tenure that far surpasses that of superintendents in comparable school districts.”

The petition goes on to state, “Superintendent J. Alvin Wilbanks has misled GCPS for 24 years. He has enabled a racist and ableist school culture that caters to upper middle-class white students.”

Another petition started on change.org six months ago calling for Wilbanks’ resignation had 62 signatures as of Thursday.

The petition reads, “You haven [sic] chosen politics over our children and your own staff. … You gave parents the option of digital learning or face to face learning and retracted it. You gave teachers the option to work from home with reporting ‘periodically’ then you retracted

Supporters of J. Alvin Wilbanks attend a rally Feb. 9 at the J. Alvin Wilbanks Instructional Support Center in Suwanee.

Photo by Alicia Couch Payne

that as well. Wilbanks, we have seen ENOUGH and will not tolerate anymore [sic] of this rhetoric.”

The individual named as the creator of the petition, Rebecca Calloway, could not be located for comment.

A third petition on gopetition.com was created Jan. 26 and shows support for Wilbanks

with 1,940 signatures.

The petition was created by Buford resident Claire Maki and reads, “It is disheartening to learn individuals are attempting to terminate Mr. Wilbanks’ contract for his/her own personal agenda.”

Maki is a Gwinnett native and a graduate of Duluth High School.

“First and foremost, almost my entire early education was under Alvin Wilbanks with him as superintendent,” she said. “I chose to raise my children here in Gwinnett County, as well, because of the esteemed school district. I think he’s done a very good job over the past 25 years building this school district to what it is today.”

Wilbanks has responded to calls for his resignation or termination, saying, “As Superintendent, I have never worried about my job. I give 100% every day and I work at the pleasure of the board. If the Board decides I am not who they want, they can take action and change that. In the meantime, there is a lot of work to do on behalf of Gwinnett County Public Schools and I am committed to getting it done.”

Sugar Hill council approves design review for new development

Deanna Allen

A proposed development that would bring more high-end apartments to the city of Sugar Hill is moving forward in the planning and development process.

The Sugar Hill City Council voted Monday to approve a design review for the mixeduse development that will include approximately 300 apartment units, street-level retail shops and public and private parking. The development will be constructed at 5082 Nelson Brogdon Boulevard and was submitted for review by construction firm Terwilliger Pappas.

Mayor Pro Tem Taylor Anderson made the motion to approve the design review with conditions listed in the planning de-

partment’s recommendation for approval. The motion was seconded by council member Nick Green, and the five-member council voted unanimously to approve the design review with the following conditions:

• Final designs should substantially resemble the renderings submitted, with final material and color selections subject to approval.

• A public art element should be incorporated into the development.

• Pedestrian crossings constructed at the developer’s expense.

Sugar Hill Planning Director Kaipo Awana said the next step for the development is permitting for site engineering and development plans.

Dueling pianos celebrate decade performing at Buford venue

Deanna Allen

An all-request, interactive singalong show featuring dueling pianos has been making audiences part of the show at a north Gwinnett venue now for more than a decade — the Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos have been playing at 37 Main in Buford since 2011.

“Playing there is a lot of fun,” said East Point resident Damian Cartier. “The owners really let us be ourselves.”

Cartier, a Rhode Island native who started playing piano at the age of 7 and went on to begin playing professionally at 19, is one of the original members of Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos, alongside Mark Kovaly. Cartier and Kovaly used their shared middle name — Andrew — to form the group in 2002. They are now two of four musicians who sub in and out for shows, along with Mark Larson and Daniel Deal.

Cartier said 37 Main’s Buford location boasts professional lights that sync with the music, and cameras record and broadcast the shows for virtual audiences.

“We can’t hear them singing along, but we’re pretty sure they do,” Cartier said of those watching online.

Those enjoying the show in person get an opportunity to request their favorite music — Cartier said

IF YOU GO

• What: Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos

• When: 8:30 p.m. Thursdays, Feb. 18 and 25

• Where: 37 Main, 37 E. Main St., Buford

• Cost: Free for general admission and $40 for seat reservations for four people

• For more information: Visit buford.37main.com

the most requested song is “Don’t Stop Believing” by Journey.

“We get ‘Piano Man’ a lot too,” he added. “And Lizzo was popular before the pandemic. We’re kind of a jukebox.”

Knowing the music and lyrics to more than 2,000 songs comes in really handy when audience members request obscure selections.

“As long as we know three of the chords and five of the words, we’ll give the song a shot,” Cartier said. “That can be anything from Cardi B to Sinatra to Bon Jovi.”

For those who haven’t caught an Andrews Brothers Dueling Pianos show, Cartier said audiences can expect the unexpected.

“Every night is different,” he said. “People not only can request a song, people can stop a song if they don’t like it.”

College fight songs are one example of renditions that might get halted, depending on the fans in the crowd on a given night.

“This show is very unique,” Cart-

ier added. “It’s not your normal show in the sense that you have no idea what you’re playing before you get there, you have no idea what the audience will be like.”

The goal for Cartier, though, is always the same — to get the audience “singing along, smiling, laughing and having a good time. It’s just really nice to help people get there.”

A Q&A with Gwinnett’s 2021 Teacher of the Year, Katie Blum

Staff Reports

Sugar Hill Elementary School teacher Katie Blum has been recognized at the county level after being named Gwinnett County Public Schools’ Teacher of the Year for 2021. The North Gwinnett Voice recently contacted Ms. Blum to find out more about her. Here’s what she had to say:

North Gwinnett Voice: What prompted you to pursue a career in teaching?

Katie Blum: Since my earliest memories, I have always wanted to be a teacher. I was the little girl who grew up playing school, except I never grew out of my love for teaching and desire to become a teacher. As I grew up and volunteered with elementary students in high school and college, it was further proof to me that this is what I was truly called to do. I cannot think of another job where I would feel as much passion and joy as I do in education.

NGV: What’s your favorite subject to teach and why?

KB: This is a really hard question for me! As a second grade teacher, I teach ALL of the subjects!! I guess if I had to narrow it down ... my two favorite subjects to teach are math and reading.

I LOVE math because numbers have always made sense to me and there are so many manipulatives (tangible math tools) to use to help students grasp and understand math concepts. Math can be very hands-on and the kids love hands-on activities. I use many manipulatives such as base ten blocks, spinners, dice, number lines, giant blow up dice, counters, etc. to make math learning hands on, engaging, and fun!

However, I have a strong love for reading as well! When you teach a child how to read, you are truly changing their life. Reading is powerful and I strongly believe that once a child can read; they can do anything. Becoming a reader is like opening thousands of doors in life and having new adventures to experience forever. Second grade is such a great year for reading

because typically students transition from “learning-to-read” to “readingto-learn”. There’s a big transition in independence in second grade and it’s magical to watch. It’s also incredibly rewarding to help striving readers gain confidence and strengthen their reading ability. It’s a real life “lightbulb moment” when they begin reading on a second and third grade level and can independently read and understand what they are reading.

NGV: Describe your teaching philosophy.

KB: My personal philosophy and beliefs about teaching are simple. I believe genuine relationships are the most important aspect of teaching. I believe that children learn and thrive most when they know their teacher truly loves, respects, and supports them in all of their academic and personal adventures. I also believe that children are most successful in active classrooms that incorporate kinesthetic learning such as movement, songs, and hands-on activities.

NGV: What do you enjoy most about teaching?

KB: This question is easy for me. Everything I do is for my students. Every year I work hard to create gen-

uine relationships with each of my kids and develop a class family. Everything we do throughout the year is revolved around being a family. We refer to ourselves as The Blum Class Family and once they are a part of my family, they will always be a part of my family. My husband and I do not have children yet, and I firmly believe that God gives me 24-30 kids each year to love and treasure as my own. I love the lightbulb moments when they finally get a skill they’ve worked so hard for, I love our Friday dance parties, I love seeing them rise to the high expectations we set together, I love our class family motto that we start each week with, I love watching them succeed and grow tremendously in their knowledge and skills in just 180 days, I love their precious hugs, toe taps, and high fives — I love my kids.

NGV: What are some challenges you’ve overcome in your teaching career?

KB: One of the major challenges I can think of is five years ago when I first moved to Georgia, I didn’t know anyone except my husband who was my fiancé at the time, and I was hired as a kindergarten teacher at Sugar Hill Elementary. I spent weeks and hun-

dreds of dollars, that I totally didn’t have being fresh out of college, setting up my kindergarten classroom to be my perfect “first classroom”. I fell in love with my precious little five year olds and an amazing kindergarten team. Then, three weeks into school it was announced that we were under the enrollment expectations and that I was going to be displaced to another school within the county. I was devastated at the thought of starting over, losing my class of kindergarten students, and making friends all over again after being at Sugar Hill for less than a month. I was displaced to Riverside Elementary and found out that I was going to be an Early Intervention Program teacher for kindergarten and first grade students, and a technology specials teacher for 4th and 5th graders. I remember crying all weekend about starting over only a month into the school year, losing my new friends and students, and figuring out this new life in Georgia — that was not off to a great start. However, the administration and first grade team at Riverside truly took me under their wings and made me feel at home within just a few short weeks. I went from devastated and crying to learning and growing in new ways and developing friendships that I still have and am so grateful for today. As it turns out, it wasn’t the end of the world for me and I became a stronger reading teacher, made friends with teachers and community member that I would have never met otherwise, and grew up as a person. After my year at Riverside, I did decide to transfer back to Sugar Hill where I began teaching second grade and have stayed ever since. However, I would not be the person or teacher I am today without this experience and the friends and mentors I made along the way.

NGV: What does being named GCPS Teacher of the Year mean to you?

KB: First of all, this recognition and award was completely unexpected and beyond my wildest imagination! Every year when we would celebrate the TOTY at Sugar Hill, I always

was so impressed with the TOTY and often thought to myself, “Wow, maybe one day in my career I will be Sugar Hill’s teacher of the year”. But never did I expect that it would be so soon, and I certainly never imagined that I would become Gwinnett County’s teacher of the year. I honestly was not even going to apply for Sugar Hill’s TOTY after originally being nominated because this has been such a crazy year in education. But my friend and coworker, Jen Schmitt, called me and encouraged me to fill out the application! Oh goodness am I grateful that she pushed me out of my comfort zone!! This is the greatest honor that I have ever received. While I am so grateful for this unbelievable award, I would not be in this position today without the guidance, encouragement, and influence from my family, friends, mentors, and the educators in my life. I also would not be here without God’s blessings and His grace. Becoming Gwinnett County’s teacher of the year is not just a reflection of my own abilities and accomplishments. More so, I truly believe it is the reflection of the leadership, teammates, colleagues, and students that I am surrounded by each and every day, that challenge me and support me as I aim to be the best teacher that my students deserve.

Secondly, I feel a great sense of responsibility to represent my colleagues and the field of education at the highest caliber. There are approximately 12,500 teachers across Gwinnett County working harder this year than they have ever worked. Thousands of teachers are making the impossible possible while teaching concurrently (teaching digitally and in-person at the same time). I know many of my fellow educators have been challenged with unprecedented situations this year. I hope to remind teachers to remember their “why” and to do what’s best for children every day, as much as they can. I strive to be a voice and advocate for all teachers, a liaison to the community, and I hope to shine light on the greatness that Gwinnett County’s incredible teachers have accomplished during such a challenging year.

Student of the Week

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF BUFORD

Gemma Holland

12TH GRADE

Meet Gemma Holland, a senior at Buford High School. Gemma was born to Deborah Thomas and Jim Holland in Snellville, however, she was raised in Buford her entire life. Gemma has attended Buford City Schools since kindergarten, making her a “lifetimer” or “Buford baby.” Gemma has two older siblings — Tiffany Thomas, 35, and Brandon Glenn, 27. Gemma’s older sister Tiffany graduated from BHS in 2003 and is now a first-grade teacher at Buford Academy.

Throughout her time at Buford High School, Gemma has never failed to impress her fellow teachers and peers with her outstanding academic performances. Gemma has taken a total of eight AP classes and was even awarded the AP scholar award — an award given to students who receive scores of 3 or higher on three or more AP exams. Currently, Gemma holds an unweighted 3.9 GPA and is ranked within the top 6 percent of her class. To say the least, Gemma is most definitely an intelligent, academically driven student who knows how to achieve success.

Gemma’s favorite subject is world history.

“I find it interesting that everything we have today can be traced back to the simplistic, genius instruments that civilizations prior to us developed,” she said.

Alongside her academics, Gemma is highly involved in the student body of Buford

High School. Gemma has been a part of the Chamber Chorus for four years, Key Club for four years, Student Council for three years, Spanish Club for two years, National Honor Society for two years and she has been a manager for the women’s basketball and volleyball teams for two years. Not only is Gemma involved in many extracurriculars, but she also partakes in leading them. Gemma is the vice president of meetings for Key Club, the grade level representative for the National Honor Society and she was also the vice president of the Junior Council. Without a doubt, Gemma is an undeniable leader to her fellow classmates and peers.

Out of all the extracurriculars Gemma is involved in, her favorites happen to be Key Club and the National Honor Society. She said that through these clubs, she has been given the opportunities to help out within the school system and the community. She loves being able to help make a difference within the community through various service opportunities.

In her free time, Gemma enjoys hanging out with her closest friends. Most Fridays, they find a new restaurant to try because they love trying various types of foods from a multitude of cultures. Also, Gemma enjoys taking photos on her disposable camera to highlight special events.

After her graduation from Buford in May, Gemma plans to attend Duke University, where she will be able to earn a degree in international comparative studies and global health. Following her graduation at Duke, Gemma plans to attend medical school and become a dermatologist. She wants to work with a nonprofit health care organization.

Gemma is an outstanding student and a well-rounded person who will without a doubt become a successful leader. We can only imagine what she will do with her life when she leaves Buford High School and encounters the world. Congratulations, Gemma!

— Emily Hammond

Buford High School crowns Miss Buford in 74th annual pageant

Emily

Hammond

The 74th annual Miss Buford Pageant took place at the Buford Fine Arts Center on Saturday, Jan. 30. Miss Buford is a yearly tradition that promotes both the beauty and brains of young ladies and permits them an inventive outlet to express themselves and their confidence.

Miss Buford is a fundraiser for the choral department and provides a $500 scholarship to the senior winner. Funds raised go to purchasing a variety of items to provide supplies and opportunities to choral students.

This year’s director of the Miss Buford Pageant was Mr. Taylor Greer.

“I am the organizer for the pageant so I take care of all logistics, personnel and production,” Greer said. “My favorite part is getting to see students that are a part of my chorus class in a totally different element, particularly during the interview and pageant preparation.”

The winners of Miss Buford were chosen through several rounds of judging, beginning with a morning interview where contestants were asked several questions about their academic and extracurricular activities, as well as volun-

teering experiences.

The winners of the pageant are:

• Miss Freshman — Josephine Ibarra

• Miss Sophomore — Mara Eva Cline

• Miss Junior — Emma Sanders

• First runner-up — Bree Smith

• Miss Buford — Isabelle Wiggs

Isabelle Wiggs is the daughter of Ginnie and Andy Wiggs. She is involved in the Buford High School dance and musical theatre programs, as well as the Buford varsity cheer team. Isabelle is ranked within the top of her class and has maintained stellar grades throughout her high school career. What makes Isabelle stand out the most is the kindness she shows to her peers and the enthusiastic, caring attitude she holds every day. Isabelle has a kind heart and is always willing to go out of her way if it means helping someone else. Most definitely, Isabelle Wiggs is deserving of being named Miss Buford.

When asked what it means to her to have been crowned the overall queen, Isabelle said, “It means a lot to me because it has always been my dream since I was in kindergarten. It is a great way to represent my school and my community, as well.”

Congratulations to all the young ladies who participated in this amazing event!

2021 Miss Buford Middle School crowned among 34 contestants

The 2021 Miss Buford Middle School pageant took place Thursday, Jan. 28, at the Buford Fine Arts Center. This year, 34 contestants, ranging from sixth through eighth grade, participated in the exciting event.

The Miss BMS pageant is organized each year by the eighth-grade teachers, and all proceeds from the pageant go directly to the eighthgrade team to spend on instructional materials in the classrooms and general supplies. In the past, the teachers have used the money to purchase class sets of novels and to buy supplies for science experiments.

The reigning 2019 Miss BMS, Audrey Getz — a current ninth grader at Buford High School — was in attendance to crown and congratulate this year’s winners.

The new 2020 Miss BMS is sev-

enth-grader Joscelyn Mandall. Joscelyn is the daughter of Josh and Jennifer Mandall. Her accomplish-

ments include being a competitive cheerleader, playing soccer and dancing. She also wrote and pub-

lished a book, “The Proudest Olive,” which is a story of a young girl who is bullied at school and how she navigates through the challenge and overcomes it.

The runners-up from the Miss BMS pageant are:

• First runner-up: Izzy Skinner, eighth grade

• Second runner-up: Holly Madsen, seventh grade

• Third runner-up: Abigail Richardson, sixth grade

• Fourth runner-up: Caroline Humphrey, eighth grade

Alongside Miss BMS, two other winners are also crowned as part of the pageant — Miss Spirit of BMS and the winner of the People’s Choice Award.

This year’s Miss Spirit of BMS is Izzy Skinner, an eighth-grade student and the daughter of Chad and Bonnie Skinner. Izzy Skinner has

been on the straight A honor roll, received the citizenship award, is a member of the Future Business Leaders of America and is on the BMS soccer team. Izzy received the title of Miss Spirit of BMS by being selected by the BMS faculty and staff as well as the contestants themselves; this award goes to someone who is respectful to adults and peers, willing to help others, goes above and beyond the traditional expectations of classroom behavior and inspires and supports other students.

The People’s Choice Award is voted on by family and friends of the contestants through donations. The young lady with the most donations is crowned the winner. This year’s People’s Choice Award winner is Hallie Walsh, a sixth-grade student and daughter of HB and Tami Walsh. Congratulations, ladies! Keep up the great work!

5K benefits Children’s Healthcare, clubs at Buford High School

Torin Smith

The morning of Saturday, Jan. 30, was cloudy and cold, but that was not enough to stop the roughly 360 runners who came out for the second annual Cookies and Cocoa 5K at Buford High School. The run began at 9 in the morning under thick cloud cover, but by the end of the race, runners were able to enjoy treats and hot drinks as the sun started to come out.

The Cookies and Cocoa 5K is an annual race that was organized this year by three Buford High School students, Ryanne Alvarez, Makenzie Curry and Lily Perry. The race is their project for the FCCLA Star Events competition. The Students Taking Action with Recognition (STAR) Events are competitions in which FCCLA members compete at the region/district, state and national levels. Students are recognized for their proficiency in group and individual projects, leadership skills and career preparation. Last year, Makenzie Curry, Abby Wood and Kathryn Sterritt made it all the way to nationals with the 2020 Cookies and Cocoa 5K.

The Cookies and Cocoa 5K is a fundraising event that benefits Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, as well as the career tech classes and clubs of Buford High School. This year, the race raised about $10,000 in donations from sponsors and racers alike, with nearly $7,000 coming from local business sponsors. Additionally, participants who wanted to participate but could not because of COVID could still do a “digital run” where they could make the pledge and follow along from home. Sixty percent of this year’s donations will benefit Children’s Healthcare, and 40 percent will go to career tech at BHS.

This year’s race was made possible thanks to the help of the more than 100 volunteers who helped organize snacks, water and social distancing procedures. The race looked a little different this year because of COVID protocols. Runners had to state their pace during registration and were placed at the start according to their intended pace. Upon

Runners turned out to help raise money for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, as well as career tech classes and clubs at Buford High School during the second annual Cookies and Cocoa 5K held on Jan. 30. Photos by Torin Smith

arrival, runners had to check in with volunteers to help with counting and social distancing. In addition to these procedures, sanitizing stations were placed throughout the race area for the convenience and safety of runners and volunteers. COVID has made it difficult for everyone this past year, but events like the Cookies and Cocoa 5K show how our community can persevere and come together for a good cause.

Buford baseball team ranked No. 4 nationwide in preseason

Alicia Couch Payne

Looking over Buford’s roster for this upcoming baseball season, one will see a team that is loaded with talent. With nine players committed to play baseball at Division I colleges after they graduate from Buford, it should come as no surprise that the Wolves have garnered national attention. Perfect Game has Buford ranked as No. 4 in the nation across all classifications in their preseason rankings.

Head coach Stuart Chester, who is in his fourth year leading Buford’s baseball team, said it’s an honor to receive that preseason ranking; however, Chester was quick to dismiss it. The team may be talented, but it will take everyone working hard as a team to make this season a success.

This season is new territory for the Wolves as they move up to compete in Class AAAAAA. “AAAAAA is tough. The depth of talent is tremendous,” Chester said. “You have teams like Allatoona, Houston County, Carrollton, Pope and Kell who are all going to be tough competition.”

In Buford’s new region 8-AAAAAA, there are talented teams that could pose a challenge to the Wolves. Chester is not counting any region competitor out, but he does say Winder-Barrow will be a challenge with the likes of senior Brady House on the team.

In order for his team to be their best and go far into the postseason, Chester believes in putting his team through the most adverse situations possible.

“You grow through pain and hard times,” he said. “I want the team to be prepared for anything.”

The Wolves have one of the keys to a successful team — a very talented and deep bullpen. Most high school teams rely on one or two good pitchers. Buford has a list of talented pitchers they can call up at any time and they will put up good numbers for the Wolves. They have the No. 1 ranked pitcher in the nation for the Class of 2022, Vanderbilt

commit Dylan Lesko. Then add in other notable pitchers like Treyton Rank, Connor Sampers, Jackson Brockett, Riley Stanford and Jackson Gaspard, just to name a few. The list goes on. This is a coach’s dream to have a bullpen with that much talent.

Buford is not all just about its bullpen, though. The team has plenty of hitters to put the numbers on the board. Look for Treyton Rank to lead the team at the plate. Rank was last season’s team leader for the highest batting average.

Buford will scrimmage with Woodland Feb. 13 and begin its regular season Feb. 16 when the Wolves host eight-time Class AAAAAAA powerhouse Parkview. They will turn around and face Lambert and Mill Creek, both good programs. The Wolves were invited to participate in the USA Baseball’s National High School Invitational in Cary, N.C.; however, the team just learned the event has been cancelled due to the pandemic. After their season ended just after it had barely begun, getting in

a full season, especially a winning season, is more important than ever.

The COVID-19 pandemic forced schools across the nation to cancel the spring high school sports season at the end of the 2019-2020 school year. This was a massive blow to this group of young men, and even though they cannot get that season back, they are more determined than ever to make this one count. Expect this group to come play with determination and purpose.

A few notable players to watch: Seniors: Treyton Rank, RHP, 3B, C,

Above left: Brad Hatchel throws to Jackson Brockett to get the runner out at first after he failed to steal second base during a preseason scrimmage. Above: James Law bats for his team during the scrimmage. Left: Gavin Woolery takes to the mound. Far left: Junior Dylan Lesko is ranked as the No. 1 pitcher and No. 2 overall player in the nation for the Class of 2022, according to Perfect Game. Photos by Alicia Couch Payne

IF, OF, UT (Florida State); Nathan Smith, C, 3B (Tennessee); Connor Sampers, SS, 2B, RHP, UT (Wofford College); Jackson Brockett, 1B, LHP (Nebraska); Brett Rogers; Juniors: Dylan Lesko, RHP, 3B, C, SS (Vanderbilt) No. 1 ranked pitcher in Class of 2022 nationwide; Riley Stanford, OF, RHP (Georgia Tech); Jackson Gaspard, SS, C, IF, RHP (Georgia Tech); Brant Braughcum, SS, 2B, 3B (Georgia Tech); Stan Zagrodnik, OF, 1B, LHP (Wofford College); Jake Pope (multiple DI offers for football).

Buford celebrates 19 senior athletes on National Signing Day

Staff Reports

BUFORD — Family and friends of 19 senior athletes from Buford High School came out to the Buford Arena on Wednesday, Feb. 3, to celebrate the athletes signing letters of intent.

Football

Matthew Alexander, University of Central Florida (Orlando, Fla.)

Caleb Archer, Elon University (Elon, N.C.)

Tommy Beuglas, Furman University (Greenville, S.C.)

Brandon Castro, Army (West Point, Ky.)

Malik Cunningham, Reinhardt University (Waleska, Ga.)

Boyd Farmer, University of North Carolina – Charlotte

Dajuan Fields, Lehigh University (Bethlehem, Pa.)

Carson Garrison, Mercer University (Atlanta, Ga.)

TJ Lowe, University of Virginia’s College at Wise (Wise, Va.)

Timi Olawole, Birmingham-Southern College

Nick Perry, Charleston Southern University

Jacob Smith, Army (West Point, Ky.)

Amari Wansley, Florida Atlantic University (Boca Raton, Fla.)

Caden Williams, Middle Tennessee State University (Murfreesboro, Tenn.)

Malik Williams, University of Nebraska

Cross country

Caroline Montini, Troy University (Troy, Ala.)

Swimming

Caroline Irwin, Navy (Annapolis, Md.)

Wrestling

Nick Cambria, Davidson College (Davidson, N.C.)

Softball

Alicia Ross, Bowdoin College (Brunswick, Maine)

Buford wrestling wins Region Traditional title,

Staff Reports

MT. AIRY — The Buford Wolves wrestling team took home the Region 8-AAAAAA Traditional title on Saturday, Feb. 6, at Habersham Central High School.

Buford accumulated 290.5 points to take first while the region runner-up, Lanier, had 151 points. Dacula placed third with 129.5 points.

The Wolves were able to qualify all 14 of their wrestlers to compete at the traditional state meet on Friday, Feb. 12, at the Macon Centreplex. Thirteen of those who qualified for state did so with an individual region championship title under their belts. Lanier and Dacula each had 10 wrestlers qualify for state.

Below are the individual weight class results:

• 106: Winner – Rylan Ibold, Buford; Runner-Up – Tyler Ramos, Lanier

• 113: Winner – Tucker Kazienko, Buford; Runner-Up – Cabe Doker, Lanier

• 120: Winner – Gavin Pope, Buford; Run-

ner-Up – Ethan Ross, Dacula

• 126: Winner – Tyler Henley, Buford; Runner-Up – Ed Chastain, Habersham Central

• 132: Winner – Nick Cambria, Buford; Runner-Up – Wyatt Smith, Lanier

• 138: Winner – Dylan Bozoian, Buford; Runner-Up – Jacob Bourgeois, Lanier

• 145: Winner – Camden Doker, Lanier; Runner-Up – T.J. McCullough, Buford

• 152: Winner – Grayson Santee, Buford; Runner-Up – Conner Dubreuiel, Dacula

• 160: Winner – Talen Thompson, Buford; Runner-Up – Bryson Jaske; Lanier

• 170: Winner – Aaron Riner, Buford; Runner-Up – Colby Watson, Habersham Central

• 182: Winner – Jacob Downing, Buford; Runner-Up – Blake Gehrisch, Lanier

• 195: Winner – Aaron Kirkland, Buford; Runner-Up – Yonah Ji, Lanier

• 220: Winner – Luis Abonza, Buford; Runner-Up – Dalton King, Habersham Central

• 285: Winner – Caden Williams, Buford; Runner-Up – Lukas Ricci, Habersham Central

The Buford High School varsity wrestler of the week is senior Nick Cambria. Cambria is a leader on his team and shares the team captain position with fellow senior Dylan Bozoian. The Davidson College commit has an impressive season record of 24-2 and is the region champion in his weight class of 132 pounds. Cambria is a three-time state place winner (second, sixth and fourth) and he is one of the favorites in his weight class going into this weekend’s Traditional State Championship. Congratulations, Nick Cambria! Keep up the good work! Go