Vol 4 No 12 11-20-20

STATE CHAMPIONS

Reader of the Week Conner Tu

Conner Tu, a first-grader at Buford Academy whose teacher is Mrs. Harvell, is already reading chapter books, making him an excellent choice for Reader of the Week!

Conner, who is 6, loves mysteries and he recently finished the “Calendar Mysteries” series by author Ron Roy and is starting Roy’s “A to Z Mysteries.” His favorite book in the “Calendar Mysteries” series is “August Acrobat” because his birthday is in August.

In addition to reading on an advanced level, Conner already knows his multiplication and division facts. Very impressive for a first grader!

“This young man is so full of personality and has an amazing positive attitude,” said Buford Academy Media Specialist Lana Nix. “Conner has such a strong self-confidence about himself. We are always so excited to see Conner and his smile in the media center.”

Connor’s parents are Frank and Thao, and he has two sisters, 3-year-old Violet and 1-year-old Norah. Conner loves visiting E. E. Robinson Park to play on the playground and his favorite activity is the slide. He also loves playing pretend soccer with Violet.

Congratulations, Connor, on being named Reader of the Week! Keep up the good work!

— Deanna

Allen

The following reports were filed by the Gwinnett County Police Department between Nov. 3-16, 2020.

• A report of simple assault was made in the 5100 block of Pass Court NE in Sugar Hill.

• Reports of simple battery were made in the 400 block of Forest Street NE, 3300 block of Buford Drive NE and 1400 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard NE. Buford addresses.

• Reports of battery were made in the 1000 block of N Price Road NE in Sugar Hill, 5700 block of Princeton Oaks Drive NE in Sugar Hill, 4500 block of S Lee Street NE in Buford, 4700 block of Pebble Court NE in Buford, 1700 block of Plunketts Road NE in Buford and 2900 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• Sexual battery was reported in the 3300 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• Criminal damage in the second degree was

CRIME LOG

reported in the3400 block of Financial Center Way NE in Buford.

• Reports of larceny — theft by taking were made in the 5000 block of W Broad Street NE in Sugar Hill, 200 block of Circle View Drive NE in Buford, 4300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 2500 block of Beauchamp Court NE in Buford and 100 block of Circle View Drive Ne in Buford, 3300 block of Earhart Way NE in Buford and 3300 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• A report of larceny — theft by deception was made in the 2000 block of Whitebluff Way NE in Buford.

• A report of larceny — theft of services was filed in the 3300 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• Entering auto reports were filed in the 3300 block of Buford Drive NE and 3500 block of Buford Drive NE. Buford addresses.

Restaurant Inspections

The following restaurant health inspection scores were pulled from the Georgia Department of Health between Nov. 3-16, 2020.

• 786 Kebab and Curry — 1905 Mall of Georgia Blvd Suite B Buford; 90

• Buffalo’s Café — 3450 Braselton Hwy Buford; 95

• Cabos Mex Grill II — 7367 Spout Springs Road, Ste 150, Flowery Branch; 99

• Cracker Barrel Old Country Store Inc. — 75 Celebration Dr Suwanee; 85

• Discover Village at Sugarloaf — 1220 Satellite Blvd NW Suwanee; 97

• El Jinete #8 — 2320 Liam Ave NE Dacula, GA 30019; 93

• Homerun Nutrition — 5458 McEver Road, Ste C-2, Flowery Branch; 98

• Ihop 3143 — 3463-B Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suwanee; 100

• Jimmy John’s Gourmet Sandwiches — 3429 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suite I Suwanee; 88

• Krystal Restaurant — 1595 US-23 Buford; 83

• Legends Clubhouse Restaurant — 5473 Legends Dr Braselton; 96

• Marco’s Pizza — 4029 Winder Highway, Ste 440, Flowery

Branch; 100

• Newks Eatery — 3730 Buford Dr Suite 700 Buford; 82

• Paopao Noodle Factory and Bar

— 3290 Buford Dr Suite A-2 Buford; 95

• Penn Station East Coast Subs — 3320 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd

Suite 2D Suwanee; 100

• Pho 24 — 1825 Mall of Georgia Blvd Suite C Buford; 82

• Samba Steakhouse — 5690 Cumming Hwy NE Suite A Sugar Hill; 83

• Seasons 52 — 3265 Buford Dr Buford; 93

• Si Fu Ginger — 4009 Winder Highway, Ste 290, Flowery Branch; 85

• Sodeulkyuk Restaurant — 2790 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd #165 Suwanee; 83

• Stars and Strikes — 1601 Horizon Pkwy Buford; 93

• Tacos and Tequilas Mexican Grill

— 3480 Financial Center Way Suite M1070 Buford; 89

• Tin Lizzy Cantina — 3333 Buford Dr Suite VA05 Buford; 100

• Toreore / Mandoo — 2700 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suwanee; 91

• Zaxby’s — 100 Commons Drive, Braselton; 94

• A carjacking was reported in the 2900 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• A robbery attempt was reported in the Bona Road NE/Silver Street NE area of Buford.

• Forgery in the first degree was reported in the 4100 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford.

• A purse snatching was reported in the 1600 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard NE in Buford.

• Reports of theft by shoplifting were filed in the 3300 block of Buford Drive NE in Buford (two reports).

The following reports were filed by the Hall County Sheriff’s Office between Nov. 3-16, 2020.

• Simple assault was reported in the 5900 block of Blackberry Lane in Buford.

• Reports of simple battery were filed in the 4900 block of Lanier Islands Parkway in Bu-

ford, 5000 block of Lanier Islands Parkway in Buford and 6000 block of Catamaran Court in Flowery Branch.

• Reports of criminal trespass were filed in the 5100 block of Bristol Industrial Way in and 5600 block of Sweetwater Trail. Buford addresses.

• A forced-entry, residential burglary was reported in the 3400 block of N Waterworks Road in Buford.

• A domestic dispute was reported in the 5200 block of Wild Cedar Drive in Buford.

• Reports of theft by taking — less than $1,500 were made in the 5100 block of Bristol Industrial Way in Buford and 600 block of Gaines Ferry Road in Flowery Branch.

• Reports of theft by taking — greater than $1,500 were filed in the 5100 block of Bristol Industrial Way and 5000 block of Bristol Industrial Way. Buford addresses.

Suspects identified in Suwanee Walmart hit-and-run case

Alicia Couch Payne

SUWANEE — The Suwanee Police Department has released the identities of the suspects wanted in connection with the death of a Sugar Hill father that took place at the Walmart in Suwanee on Nov. 14.

Christian Gutierrez, 42, of Sugar Hill, was struck by a U-Haul truck that was being used by two young men who had been inside the Walmart and are accused of shoplifting. The driver of the U-Haul ran over Gutierrez, dragging his body out onto Satellite Boulevard and killing him.

Suwanee police have identified the suspects as Keytavuis Arice Lowam “Tay,” 18, of Decatur, and Jafar D. Hunter Jr. “ManMan,”

Christian Gutierrez was killed in a hit-andrun on Nov. 14. Photo courtesy of Gwinnett County Police Department

15, also of Decatur. The suspects are known as “water boys” who frequent the Memorial Drive/Columbia Drive area. Warrants for

www.northgwinnettvoice.com info@northgwinnettvoice.com

Jessica Wilson, Publisher 706-633-0334 • jessica@northgwinnettvoice.com

Alicia Couch Payne, Editorial Manager 404-453-5261 • alicia@northgwinnettvoice.com

Deanna Allen, Assistant Editor/Creative Design 770-883-9530 • deanna@northgwinnettvoice.com

Jessica Deese, Ad Director 770-840-5534 • jdeese@northgwinnettvoice.com

felony murder and felony shoplifting have been issued for both suspects. They are not in custody and their whereabouts are unknown. Their warrants have been turned over to the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office Fugitive Task Force.

Gutierrez’s widow, Ana Gutierrez, said the U-Haul truck had hit their van and they had already called police as they waited for the driver of the truck to come out of the Walmart. Ana Gutierrez said she saw the two young men run out of the store and her hus-

band confronted them. Somehow during the confrontation, her husband was pushed and ended up falling underneath the tires. The suspects did not stop and proceeded to run him over.

Her son got out of the van to try and stop the suspects, but nothing could be done. Gutierrez’s daughter-in-law and grandchildren also witnessed the incident.

If anyone knows the location of either suspect, please call Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Fugitive Tip Line at 770-619-7838.

Gwinnett police seek help identifying rape suspect

Staff Reports

DULUTH — The Gwinnett County Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect accused of rape.

@northgwinnettvoice | @gwinnettvoice

Staff Writers:

Nida Merchant

Anoshka Ramkumar

Hayden Wiggs

Emily Hammond

Torin Smith

Jordan Askew

Greyson Watkins

Staff Photographers:

William Curtis

Cathy Moore

Jenny Johnson

David Griffin

Contributing Writers:

Lynn Bowman

Brandon Hembree

ON THE COVER: Buford volleyball team wins state championship Design by Alicia Couch Payne and Deanna Allen

The suspect is described as a black male in his 20s or 30s with dreadlocks. At the time of the assault, he was wearing khaki pants and a white striped shirt and was carrying a backpack. A sketch artist worked with the victim to create an image of the suspect.

According to police, the victim was walking on Pleasant Hill Road on Sept. 20, 2020, when she was grabbed from behind and attacked by an unknown male. She was dragged into the wood line on the 2500 block of Pleasant Hill Road where she was sexually assaulted. The victim sustained serious injuries during the assault.

If anyone has any information to share in this case, call GCPD detectives at 770-5135300. To remain anonymous, tipsters should contact Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or visit www.stopcrimeATL.com.

police have released this

of a suspect in a reported rape. Photo

of Gwinnett County Police Department

Crime Stoppers tipsters can receive a cash reward for information leading to an arrest and indictment in this case.

Christmas lights contest aims to bring cheer this holiday season

Alicia Couch Payne

BUFORD — Buford has always united and prevailed during any hardship. The year 2020 has been one hardship after another, with no one walking away unaffected by the events of this year. The Buford community has shown its resilience through these hardships and has united. This holiday season when so much has changed, events are canceled, trips to see loved ones postponed and Black Friday is virtually a thing of the past, one thing will remain the same — Buford will unite and prevail.

With all the changes this year has brought to the 2020 Holiday season, the community needs an extra-large dose of Christmas cheer. There’s no way more effective to bring on that holiday cheer than seeing yard after yard lit up and all decked out for Christmas. No matter one’s age, seeing Christmas lights still delights.

The North Gwinnett Voice has teamed up with local businesses to bring to Buford the inaugural Brighten Buford Community Christmas Lights Contest. People can register their home or their business to participate in the contest. The participants have a chance to win prizes, including gift cards and gift bas-

Brighten Buford

Community Christmas Lights Contest

— PARTICIPATE —

Enter your home or business into the contest. Light displays of all sizes encouraged. Entries will be judged in the following categories: Community Choice, Student Selection, Griswold Lights and Storefront/Business.

— TOUR —

An interactive map showing the locations of the participating light displays will be available. It’s the perfect social distancing friendly Christmas activity, so load your family into the car and hit the road.

kets from local businesses and even a cash prize.

There’s plenty of fun to be had for all as an interactive map will be available online for families to use to tour the Christmas lights. This becomes the perfect Christmas activity for 2020. Social distancing at its finest. Once residents have chosen their favorite home or business, they can vote at www.North GwinnettVoice.com.

People interested in participating in the contest can sign up at www.North GwinnettVoice.com to enter the contest and receive a participation number. Those interested in participating may sign up between now and Dec. 1. Voting will begin on the North Gwinnett Voice’s website starting on Dec. 1 and run through Dec. 20. The winners of multiple categories will be announced on Dec. 22 on the website and social media.

Locations on the map will feature only an assigned number. No names will be involved as to not sway voters or release personal information. To up the chances of winning, participants will be able to upload 30-second clips of their light displays upon signing up.

Let’s show the world that 2020 will not dampen the Christmas spirit or the will of the residents of Buford. We stand Buford United!

— VOTE —

Once you have your favorite light displays picked out, cast your vote for it.

— PRIZES —

The displays with the most votes will win prizes donated by local businesses.

To register, view the interactive map, cast your vote and find all the details, head over to www.NorthGwinnettVoice.com.

Sugar Hill honors veterans with ceremony at new memorial

Alicia

Couch Payne

SUGAR HILL — The City of Sugar Hill hosted a ceremony to honor the nation’s military veterans on Veterans Day on Nov. 11, 2020. The festivities took place in front of their new Veteran’s Memorial in front of Sugar Hill Cemetery across from City Hall. Citizens from the area showed up to pay tribute to the nation’s veterans.

The ceremony, organized by Sugar Hill Council Member Brandon Hembree, featured the Broadstreet Concert Band of Sugar Hill, which played a series of songs with a distinctly patriotic theme. Members of American Legion Post 127 based in Sugar Hill were

on hand to give a three-gun salute, as well as perform the flag-raising ceremony to open the festivities.

Remarks were made about the importance of the day and about veterans’ many sacrifices. Those speaking were Laura Ann Bigley, USMC (retired); Nadine Brooks, USAF (retired); Sugar Hill Mayor Steve Edwards; Mary Kruger, interim commander of the American Legion Post 127; Terese Steinbach, Suwanee Creek Chapter of the Daughters of the Revolution; and Kathryn Baskin, Sugar Hill Historic Preservation Society.

Following the commentary, two wreaths were placed at the Veteran’s Memorial to honor all of the veterans of our nation.

North Gwinnett Homecoming 2020

KING, QUEEN AND COURT

2020 North Gwinnett High School Homecoming King and Queen Joshua Miles & Katelyn Cadogan

2020 North Gwinnett High School Homecoming Court

(Above, from left to right) Samuel Beasley, Jeanne Yoon, Mary Stephen Deas, Kaylah Percival, Elijah Emmons, Joshua Miles, Katelyn Cadogan, JJ Smith, Margeaux Luzier, Erik Wright and Hazel McQueen

Merry & bright: Holiday

Candy Rush

• When: Open nightly from 6 to 10 p.m. through Jan. 3, 2021

• Where: Six Flags White Water, 250 Cobb Parkway N., #100, Marietta

• Cost: Weekday tickets are $35 plus taxes and fees per vehicle, while weekend and holiday tickets are $45 plus taxes and fees per vehicle; tickets are sold online only

• For more information: worldofillumination.com/candyrush/

• About the event: World of Illumination presents Candy Rush, a one-mile, holiday drivethrough animated lights show featuring almost 2 million lights. No limos, buses or RVs are permitted.

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Stone Mountain Christmas

• When: Select dates through Jan. 3, 2021

• Where: Stone Mountain Park, 1000 Robert E. Lee Boulevard, Stone Mountain

• Cost: Tickets for non-members are $31,95 for adults and youth ages 12 and older, $29.95

for children ages 3 to 11 and children 2 and younger are admitted for free

• For more information: www. stonemountainpark.com/ Activities/Events/Stone-Mountain-Christmas

• About the event: Festive music, millions of lights, special shows and holiday characters. This year’s event includes a special viewing of a Christmas Lasershow.

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Santa Arrives at the Southeastern Railway Museum

• When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 21

• Where: Southeastern Railway Museum, 3595 Peachtree Road, Duluth

• Cost: $18 for ages 13 to 64, $15 for seniors 65 and older, $12 for children ages 2 to 12 and free for children younger than 2

• For more information: www. train-museum.org/event/santa-arrives-2020/

• About the event: Refreshments and entertainment begin at 11 a.m. and Santa will arrive at 1 p.m. Museum visitors age 5

and older are required to wear a face mask. Advance tickets are strongly recommended.

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Lighting of the Tree

• When: 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 26

• Where: Lawrenceville Square

• Cost: Free to attend

• For more information: events. exploregwinnett.org/event/lighting_of_the_tree_1132

• About the event: A long-standing tradition continues as the Great Tree will be lit on the lawn of the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse.

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Socially Distant Christmas Back Home with Scott Thompson and Brent McDonald

• When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1

• Where: Red Clay Music Foundry, 3116 Main St., Duluth

• Cost: $25

• For more information: eddieowenpresents.com

• About the event: A classic holiday show with a twist.

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Gwinnett Ballet

Theatre’s The Nutcracker

• When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, Saturday, Dec. 5 and Saturday, Dec. 12 and 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, Sunday, Dec. 6 and Sunday, Dec. 13

• Where: Infinite Energy Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth

• Cost: $37 to $64.50

• For more information: gwinnettballet.org/tickets/

• About the event: The Gwinnett Ballet Theatre brings this classic tale to life with a cast of more than 100 professional and student dancers. Seating is limited due to social distancing requirements and only 200 tickets will be sold per show.

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The Barefoot Movement Christmas Show

• When: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4

• Where: Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford

• Cost: $25 to $35

• For more information: www. bufordcommunitycenter.com/ event/the-barefoot-movementchristmas-show/

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Holiday Glow on the Town Green

• When: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4

• Where: Peachtree Corners Town Green, 5140 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners

• Cost: Free to attend

• For more information: events. exploregwinnett.org/event/ holiday_glow_on_the_town_ green_1783

• About the event: Enjoy holiday performances, holiday lights and pictures with Santa as Peachtree Corners holds it tree lighting. Santa visits and photos are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

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Christmas Canteen at the Bowl

• When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4 and Saturday, Dec. 5 and 6:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6

• Where: The Bowl at Sugar Hill, 5039 W. Broad St., Sugar Hill

• Cost: Tickets from $50

• About the event: Enjoy the music of a Nashville-based bluegrass band in limited, distanced seating.

• For more information: Call 678-226-6222 or visit www.

Holiday happenings

auroratheatre.com/productions-and-programs/view/ christmas-canteen-at-the-bowl/

• About the event: A socially distant event, the Aurora Theatre will bring its holiday cabaret to the stage for one weekend only. Attendance is limited for this outdoor event where attendees should bring their own chairs or blankets. Masks must be worn when not eating or drinking.

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Tannery Row Artist Colony Holiday Market

• When: Noon to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5

• Where: Tannery Row Artist Colony, 554 W. Main St., Buford

• Cost: Free to attend

• For more information: tanneryrowartistcolony.net/ schedule-1

• About the event: Peruse original artwork available for purchase during this event.

gh Deck the Hall

• When: 2 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5

• Where: Duluth Town Green, 3142 Hill St., Duluth

• Cost: Free to attend

• For more information: events. exploregwinnett.org/event/ deck_the_hall_9306

• About the event: Live entertainment, festive decorations and a tree lighting ceremony with a laser show will cap off this event, which also includes crafts for kids, a snow playground, a snow slide, a train ride and more.

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Drive Thru Bethlehem

• When: 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5

• Where: McKendree United Methodist Church, 1570 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, Lawrenceville

• Cost: Free

• For more information: www.mckendreeumc.com/ events/2020drivethrubethlehem

• About the event: Experience the night of Jesus’ birth as you drive through Bethlehem in the parking lot of McKendree UMC. Bring a non-perishable food item that will be donated to the Lawrenceville Co-op.

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Sounding Off the Christmas Season

• When: 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6

• Where: City of Auburn, 1369 Fourth Ave., Auburn

• Cost: Free

• For more information: www. cityofauburn-ga.org/CityCalendar.aspx?CNID=10478

• About the event: The event will feature food, music, performances and the ceremonial lighting of the tree in downtown Auburn. Free photos with Santa will be offered.

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Chloe Agnew From Me to You

• When: 4 and 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6

• Where: Red Clay Music Foundry, 3116 Main St., Duluth

• Cost: $35

• For more information: eddieowenpresents.com

• About the event: Live for the holidays, Irish singer Chloe Agnew will spread musical cheer to celebrate the season. The event will be streamed live for free.

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A Sugarloaf Ballet

Christmas

• When: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec.

11 and 2 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 12

• Where: Infinite Energy Center, 6400 Sugarloaf Parkway, Duluth

• Cost: Free to attend

• For more information: events. exploregwinnett.org/event/a_ sugarloaf_ballet_christmas

• About the event: The Sugarloaf Youth Ballet will presents its annual Christmas celebration with a baroque ensemble playing classical Christmas music followed by the presentation of The Nativity Ballet. While the event is free to attend, tickets are required and seating is limited to meet social distancing requirements.

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Holly Dolly Christmas

• When: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11, and Saturday, Dec. 12

• Where: Buford Community Center, 2200 Buford Highway, Buford

• Cost: $30 to $35

• For more information: www. bufordcommunitycenter.com/ event/holly-dolly-christmas/

• About the event: Enjoy the music of Georgia-born singer Katie Deal in limited, distanced seating.

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“A Christmas Carol”

• When: 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and 2:30 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays from Dec. 16 through 23

• Where: Aurora Theatre, 128 E. Pike St., Lawrenceville

• Cost: $60 for non-members and $50 for members

• For more information: Call 678-226-6222 or visit www. auroratheatre.com/productions-and-programs/view/achristmas-carol/

• About the event: Anthony Rodriguez, co-founder and producing artistic director of the Aurora Theatre, brings to life a one-mad adaptation of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” to the theater stage. Seating is limited and attendees are asked to wear masks when not seated.

*Please be aware that some events may be canceled or postponed due to unforeseen circumstances or health and safety issues surrounding COVID-19. Please confirm events are still happening before you go.

Student of the Week

BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE CITY OF BUFORD

Jocelyn Maldonado

SIXTH GRADE

Meet Jocelyn Maldonado, a sixth-grader at Buford Middle Academy. Jocelyn is the daughter of Leticia and Javier Alvarado. She was born in Atlanta but grew up in the city of Buford. Jocelyn has been enrolled in the Buford City School System since kindergarten at Buford Elementary School. She has three older siblings, Diego Valencia, 25, William Valencia, 22, and Andrea Valencia, 19. Her two older brothers, William and Diego, grew up in El Salvador, where they are currently living, and her older sister, Andrea, was a Buford graduate in the class of 2019.

Jocelyn is a stellar student at Buford Middle School. She is able to maintain amazing grades all while juggling life outside of school. Math is Jocelyn’s favorite subject.

“Math is my favorite subject because it’s easy and it’s fun to solve problems, also, you learn new things every day,” she said. “Sometimes the math problems are challenging, but I manage to work the problems out and I never give up. In fact, one of my highest grades is in math!”

In addition to working hard at school, Jocelyn dedicates her free time every week to be part of her church’s dance program. Jocelyn has been involved in the dance program for four years now. Jocelyn said she loves

dance because although she’s shy, it is a way to express herself and it makes her very happy.

“Dance has taught me to never be afraid of other people’s thoughts or opinions,” she said. “It has taught me to always follow my dream!”

When asked about her favorite teacher and who has had the biggest influence on her so far at Buford, Jocelyn confidently answered Mrs. West.

“Mrs. West is very funny; she always knows how to make my day better, even when I’m having a bad day,” Jocelyn said.

Mrs. Laurabeth Shorts speaks on Jocelyn’s joyful personality and kindness within the classroom.

“Jocelyn is an amazing young lady who has attended Buford City Schools since kindergarten. She goes above and beyond helping one of her peers every day, every class and every class change,” Mrs. Shorts said. “She is there assisting him with his books and helping him to each class. She is always the first to volunteer if something needs to be done in class for another student.”

When she is not busy with dance and school, Jocelyn can often be found watching movies, eating snacks, hanging out and catching up with friends, and going out on little dates with her older sister, Andrea.

Being a Buford Wolf isn’t always easy, however, Jocelyn Maldonado makes it seem as easy as a piece of cake! She is an amazingly well-rounded student with great work ethic, personality and most importantly, a giving heart. No doubt she will continue to accomplish great things in life. Surely, Jocelyn will find a way to inspire and change the world into a better place, and as a Buford Wolf, we proudly claim her.

— Emily Hammond

SEASON TO CELEBRATE Buford volleyball team caps year off with state championship

Dynamic is a word that comes to mind when describing this year’s Buford volleyball team. The team had a great season ending with an overall record of 33-2. The Wolves had a team of girls who believed in each other and played for each other, not to mention a roster full of talent. The team took its talent and drive all the way to capture the GHSA Class AAAAAA State Championship title this year.

The Wolves played Pope in the championship match at the Lakepoint Sports Complex in Cartersville on Nov. 7. Pope going into the match had only one loss, so Buford knew it would be a challenge. The Wolves took the first set 25-16 but lost the second set to the Greyhounds 19-25. Buford rallied and took the next two sets 25-13, 25-21 to seal the win. Buford volleyball brought home the school’s first state championship title in their new AAAAAA classification.

In the finals, Buford was led offensively by Ashley Sturzoiu with 15 kills, Mikayla Hayden had 12 kills, Kiana Polk got 10 kills, Camryn Carlton put up 9 kills and Sydney Austin contributed with 8 kills. Grace Adams was on point with 46 assists. Macy Upshaw led the defense with 26 digs.

It was a long road to get to that final game, a lot of hard work, commitment and lessons learned.

Buford’s two losses of the season came courtesy of No. 7 state-ranked St. Pius and to Class AAAAAAA North Gwinnett.

Head Coach Hadli Daniels took the losses in stride and the team took away valuable lessons from each.

“In the St. Pius loss, we felt like we played a tough match but made too many unforced errors at critical stages,” Daniels said. “The North Gwinnett loss was tough because we weren’t as focused as we needed to be that day and didn’t respond well in a close match.”

Daniels attributes the success of the season to their ability to call on a number of offensive players to make the kills, as well as strong leadership from their seniors.

“Mikayla Hayden and Ashley Sturzoiu are both really hard to stop, but Sydney Austin, Kiana

Polk and Camryn Carlton all stepped up big time by the end of the season and made it difficult for opposing teams to know where the ball was going,” Daniels said.

Senior setter Adams did a great job all season spreading the ball between Buford’s hitters and being a leader on the team.

“I would say my unsung hero for the past two years has been Grace Adams,” Daniels said. “Setters don’t always get much glory, but she was phenomenal this year. She is the best defensive setter I have ever had and such a great leader on the court. She is always positive and encouraging and could play ten games in a row without getting tired.”

A team cannot win on of-

fense alone, and Buford’s defense was led by senior Macy Upshaw. Upshaw, a team captain, could be seen all season getting those digs whether it be leaping or diving to save the ball. She was extremely focused on the court allowing her to keep track of the ball.

Buford not only won the region and state titles, but its players racked up the honors this season.

Hayden and Sturzoiu were preseason Gwinnett County Super Six selections and were awarded All-Region, All-County and AllState honors. Hayden was named the 8-AAAAAA Player of the Year and the Gwinnett County Co-Player of the Year. Upshaw also racked up the honors earning All-Region, All-County and All-State accolades.

The Wolves were led by a group of six seniors, five of whom played volleyball for Buford in middle school under current BHS assistant volleyball coach Christina Lecoeuvre.

“They all were leaders in very different ways, so the combination of them together was very special. Macy and Grace, as I have said, were phenomenal leaders on the court, and led by their play. Chloe Kerr and Mary McSwain were my talkers and encouragers and had a special relationship because they shared a spot on the floor,” Daniels said. “They were two of the most unselfish players I have had and were each other’s biggest supporters. Carleigh Hillier and Parker Venable were more of my quiet leaders, but each had a huge impact not only this season but as players that came up through our middle school program and have helped build an amazing legacy for Buford volleyball.”

With this season in jeopardy due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Coach Daniels said this win was extra special, especially for her senior players getting to play and win a state championship.

The 2020 Buford Varsity Volleyball team members were seniors Grace Adams, Carleigh Hillier, Chloe Kerr, Mary McSwain, Macy Upshaw and Parker Venable; juniors Camryn Carlton, Mikayla Hayden, Gracyn Miller, Kiana Polk and Paris Williams; and sophomores Sydney Austin, Dylan Cummings, Polly Cummings, Sophie Hill and Ashley Sturzoiu. They were coached by head coach Hadli Daniels and assistant coach Christina Lecoeuvre.

Buford teams knock off opponents to capture GFL title

Alicia Couch Payne

HOSCHTON — Every year, all youth league football teams from around Gwinnett County battle it out to be crowned the Gwinnett Football League (GFL) Champion for their division. This year’s GFL Championship games were held at Mill Creek High School on Nov. 14, 2020. Buford had three teams make it to the championships. The Buford 10U and both 8th Grade Division I and Division II teams were able to not only make it to the finals, but they each were able to bring home the title.

First up was the 10-year-old Buford Gold team coached by Mike Favors. They beat Grayson 19-6. Buford was able to get a touchdown in the first quarter. Grayson would tie the score up with a touchdown of their own. In the third quarter, Buford once again got a touchdown and then followed it up with making good the extra point. The Wolves would add one more touchdown to end the scoring leaving Buford the GFL Champions.

Next up was the Division II team that was able to shut out Lanier 20-0. Buford’s DII defense was able to repeatedly force Lanier to turn over the ball on downs or force fumbles. Mill Creek did not fare much better as the Buford Division I team cruised to a 33-8 win later that evening.

Buford is blessed with a dedicated and talented group of coaches who bring out the best in their players. “Our kids knew what the other team was going to do most of the time before they did it. That is attributed to what these men teach them each and every night. Being away from their own families for hours each week to make these kids better,” 8th-grade head coach Ken Burge said. “I want to thank all of them for their time and effort that they’ve given to these teams over the last 5 months and many years before that.”

Whether it was the 10-year-olds or the 8th-graders, the philosophy taught to the boys by their coaches is the same. Buford is big on teaching the kids that they are part of a team. It’s not about any one player but it’s about playing one’s part in the larger picture, the team. The coaches attributes this to their success.

TEAM ROSTERS

2020 10U team members are Kaan Azaklioglu #95, Irvin Balenger #34, Jackson Blankenship #36, Keshon Blow #1, Boden Boozer #30, Joel Busby #28, Bryce Carey #18, Liam Cole #3, Carter Coleman #27, Tripp Chatmon #4, Owen Dutrow #44, Hudson Favors #8, Brennan Ford #11, Tavaris Gregg #19, Maddox Litt #15, Barnes McGraw #12, Armani Osorio #32, Nicolas Richardson #60, Cade Richey #72, Stone Thompson #25 and Joshua Young #71

2020 10U coaches Mike Favors,

head coach; Anthony Richey, safety coach and assistant coaches, Calvin Blow, Brian Boozer, Terrence Chandler, JJ Chatmon and Chad Cole

2020 8th Grade — Division I team members are Antoine Belt #65, Jayvin Bennett #20, Cooper Berry #33, Brock Boozer #31, Caleb Boulware #73, Hayden Bradley #23, Kyle Carpenter #29, Damien DeFour #60, Hudson Dixon #19, Caden Elinburg #10, Ryan Elliott #22, Ethan Ervin #3, Chris Garland #2, Cannon Goldin #9, James Gregory #32, Sam Harkness #6, Cole Jackson #68, Drew Jara #45, Nicco Maggio #58, Jadon Perlotte

#5, Cooper Purcell #44, Kenyon Rivera #7, Javias Robibson #4, Shane Throgmartin #12, Nic Wade #17 and Devin Williams #21

2020 8th Grade — Division II team members are Somarion Bennett #24, Roman Best #81, Brayden Burton #70, Brady Carlton #11, Sterling Carter #1, Jeremiah Cheek #80, Amari Feacher #27, William Diaz-Gonzalas #72, Noah Hill #13, CJ Hollinquest #25, Austin Hurd #9, Caden Igarashi #54, Matthew Ingram #33, Paul Jones #83, Kolton King #55, Kanon Nelson #14, Bennett Oliver #82, Lawson Peevy #74, Jackson Prehar #28,

Buford’s #25 CJ Hollingquest finds a hole thanks to the Wolves’ offensive line in the GFL Division II Championship game against Lanier.

Weston Randolph #30, Cameron Simmons #96, Luke Sipe #77, Zach Sipe #99, Garrett Spence #34, Ethan Varn #48, Benji Wyatt #88 and Tommy Young #15

2020 8th Grade coaches are Ken Burge, head coach; Offense: Brian Elinburg, offensive coordinator; Jason Gabrels, running back coach; Terrance Chandler, Mike Favors and Bruce Carlton, offensive line coaches; Defense: Steve Bussoletti, defensive coordinator; David Kimbro, linebacker coach; Chris Gant and Zac Waters, defensive line coaches; Keith Chambers and Dre Chambers, defensive back coaches

Local athletes sign with college programs during early signing period

Staff Reports

Local high school athletes signed their National Letters of Intent to play sports for colleges across the country on Nov. 11, 2020. Below is a list of some of our area high school athletes that made their commitment official.

Buford athletes that signed are Jackson Brockett, University of Nebraska (Baseball); Jackson Buchanan, University of Illinois (Golf); Jewel Clark, Temple University (Gym-

nastics); Jordan Garrison, Gardner-Webb University (Girls Lacrosse); Courtney Martin, Rollins College (Girls Lacrosse); Kaylee Moreland, Piedmont College (Girls Lacrosse); Abbi Perkins, Jacksonville State University (Softball); Trinity Price, Stanford University (Girls Track); Treyton Rank, Florida State University (Baseball), Riley Reese, Chipola College (Softball); Connor Sampers, Wofford College (Baseball), Nathan Smith, University of Tennessee (Baseball) and Ashyia Willis, Georgia

College & State University (Girls Basketball).

North Gwinnett athletes that signed are Bree Barley, Georgia State University (Girls Soccer); Paxton Briley, Georgia Southern University (Baseball); Coulson Buchanan, Wofford College (Baseball); Grace Connelly, Georgia Tech (Softball); Haley Cummings, Chipola College (Softball); Izzy Durnell, University of Tennessee (Volleyball); Erin Griffin, Reinhardt University (Girls Lacrosse); Kelly Hall, Presbyterian College (Girls Soc-

cer); Morgan LaPlante, Life University (Girls Lacrosse); Chandler Lewis-Jenkins, Mercer University (Girls Soccer); Michael Massey, Tulane University (Baseball); Katie McCormack, Davidson College (Girls Soccer); Mallory O’Brien, Piedmont College (Girls Lacrosse); Brendan Rigsbee, University of Alabama-Huntsville (Boys Basketball); Caroline Shumeyko, Kennesaw State University (Softball) and Matthew Strand, Marshall University (Baseball).

Buford jumps to early lead over Winder-Barrow in recent win

Reports

BUFORD — Buford didn’t let its season opener set the tone for the season as the Wolves have won every game since playing North Cobb. Many were interested to see just how Buford would fare this season after moving up a classification to AAAAAA, but the Wolves are proving they are doing just fine.

After beating hometown rival Lanier on Saturday, Nov. 14, by a spread of 38-10, and trouncing its Friday, Nov. 13, opponent Winder-Barrow 45-7, Buford’s overall season record improves to 7-1 and 5-0 in Region 8-AAAAAA.

Buford got the scoring started early against Winder-Barrow and the Wolves went into halftime with a 31-7 lead over the Bulldoggs.

Senior Boyd Farmer had an interception against Lanier and he had another pick-six against Winder-Barrow. Farmer’s pick-six came in the first quarter and he scored again

in the first on a 4-yard touchdown pass. Jake Pope also got a touchdown in the first quarter after he completed a 9-yard touchdown pass from sophomore quarterback Dylan Wittke.

Junior quarterback Ashton Daniels connected with Isaiah Bond for a 51-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter. Kicker Alejandro Mata finished out the first half with a 24-yard field goal to give Buford a 31-7 lead.

Pope opened the third quarter with a 41yard touchdown catch from Wittke. Daniels opted to run the ball in himself in the third quarter for a 20-yard touchdown.

Wittke ended the game completing 8 out of 10 passes for 173 yards and three touchdowns.

Buford faces Dacula in their regular season closer on Friday, Nov. 20. The outcome of the Dacula game will decide the 8-AAAAAA region title. The Falcons are also undefeated thus far in region play and have lost two games at the beginning of the season to Brookwood and Mill Creek.

The Buford High School Varsity Football Player of the Week is sophomore Dylan Wittke. The 6-foot-2-inch, 180-pound quarterback had an impressive game against Winder-Barrow. In that game against the Bulldoggs, Wittke was 8-for-10 passing for 173 yards and three touchdowns.

Congratulations Dylan Wittke! Keep up the good work! Go Wolves!

Coach set to retire after decades impacting Buford’s football youth

Alicia Couch Payne

Every fall for the past 33 years, one could find one man passionately coaching Buford’s youth on the football fields. In those 33 years, Ken Burge has been the head coach of 10 championship teams, seven Gwinnett Football League (GFL) Championship titles and three Football University (FBU) National Championship titles.

With that sort of success, one would think that would impact someone’s ego, but that is the farthest thing from the truth. When I first encountered Burge years ago for an article I was writing about one of his teams winning the FBU Championship, I had the opportunity to interview him. I was completely taken aback by his refusal to talk about himself. He deflected every attempt I made to give him credit for the team’s success. He spoke instead about the other coaches for the team and of the players themselves.

Several championships later, Burge still won’t take any of the credit for himself. When I found out he would be retiring, I knew I wanted to write about the man who has given so much to our community over the span of three decades. I knew getting him to answer my questions would be tricky and I would likely encounter resistance, which I did. Burge might not think what he has done is such a big deal, but to everyone else, it is.

Burge said he decided to start coaching to give back some of what was given to him when he was a young boy coming up through the youth league in Buford.

“I started youth coaching 33 years ago to give back what had been given to me by so many coaches as I was growing up,” he said. “They gave to me what I hope I’ve given to other players in my years of coaching.”

One of the most memorable periods of his coaching career was being able to coach his son Tyler and “watching him grow from a 6-year-old little kid and then finishing up with him as a 12-year old young man.” Burge added, “Now in five years I’m going to get to watch him coach our grandson Beau, which will be a blessing as well.”

When asked what he has enjoyed the most about coaching, Burge said, “Getting to build lifelong relationships with players and coaches. I’ve been around so long now that I’m beginning to coach kids of kids that I coached. I had at least four kids this year that I had coached their dads. That’s when you know you’ve done it long enough when that starts happening. The relationships I’ve built through coaching with players and coaches have made this journey over the last 33 years so much fun.”

One of the players he has coached is now one of his assistant coaches, offensive coordinator Brian Elinburg.

“Ken is an amazing man, mentor and coach. He has coached so many kids in our community. His ability to coach kids year in and year out is second to none, but what makes him who he is, is the way he teaches life lessons,” Elinburg said. “I was able to play for him and coached beside him for many years. It taught me so much. I’m super blessed that he was able to coach my son these last two years. There wasn’t a better feeling in the world when we walked off that field Saturday night one last time together as champions!”

One good characteristic of a good head coach is the ability to assemble a great coaching staff and Burge is quick to praise those coaches.

“These guys make a head coach look so good and make his job easy,” Burge said. “The knowledge they bring to the field each and every night blows my mind.”

Even though Burge is passing on the head coaching job to Chris Gant, he insists he will still be around. He will continue to be a representative for the GFL and will still be in his same role with the Buford Youth Football Association.

Buford’s youth through the years have benefited from the care and knowledge Ken Burge has given so freely. The community would like to thank him for the many sacrifices he has made and all of the love he has poured into the children. And lastly, behind every coach who makes sacrifices is a family who has made even more. Thank you to his family for sharing him.

WHERE NOW? are they

Ashley Smith is a 2005 graduate of Buford High School. Ashley was born to Wayne and Lea Johnson in East Ridge, Tenn. She has a brother, Matthew Johnson, who is a fellow Buford graduate. Ashley’s family moved to Buford when she was 5 years old. She attended Harmony Elementary and Lanier Middle before making the switch to Buford in the ninth grade. Ashley’s father is on the staff at First Baptist Buford and has served as the statistician for the Buford football team for years. So her family was always involved in the Buford community. Plus, Ashley said she has always loved the smaller community feel at BHS.

Ashley jumped right into life at BHS, becoming involved with numerous activities. She served on the student council during her freshman through junior years. Ashley was also a part of Musical Theatre, Chamber Chorus, National Honor Society, Beta Club and the Thespian Society. During her senior year, she was voted onto the basketball homecoming court, was first runner-up to Miss Buford and was voted “Friendliest” in the

Ashley Smith, Class of 2005

senior superlatives.

Taking academics seriously, Ashley finished her career at BHS with a 3.9 GPA. She said her favorite subject during school was history.

Two teachers had the biggest influence on her during high school. Ashley said she always loved classes taught by Dr. Tim Harris.

“I was never the best writer, but his classes were always interesting and engaging,” Ashley said.

Mrs. Kimberly Staples, the Musical Theatre director, “has always been one of my biggest supporters through high school, college and my career,” Ashley added. “She was one of the first people to hire me as a choreographer, which started me on my path to teaching full time. She also introduced me to my

husband!”

After graduating from Buford High School, Ashley attended Brenau University in Gainesville. She was a member of Zeta Tau Alpha, HGH Senior Honor Society, a founding member and president of the Nu Delta Alpha Dance Honor Society, was named “Most Outstanding Freshman in Dance” and “Most Outstanding Senior in Dance” during her time at Brenau. In 2009, she earned her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in dance performance and choreography.

Mrs. Staples hired Ashley to choreograph productions at Buford High School, which led her to her current position as head of the Dance Program and head coach of the Competition Dance Team at Buford High School.

When asked why she chose that profession, Ashley said, “I have a passion for dance, and I love being able to share that with my students. My greatest joy is seeing the smile on my student’s faces when they are on stage!”

Ashley lives in Flowery Branch with her husband of four years, Bryant Smith, and a black lab/retriever

mix named Bobbi, who is named after former Braves legendary coach Bobby Cox (they are huge Braves fans).

When not occupied with the dance program at Buford, she attends First Baptist Buford and works with the children’s ministry there, as well as Feed the Need.

Her time at Buford High

School taught Ashley the importance of community and family. She continuously demonstrates her love for her family and community. She now gives back to the place that gave her so much by teaching her students a love for dance and performing. Once a Wolf, always a Wolf! — Alicia Couch Payne