Vol 4 No 4 2-14-20

Amyra Noorani

Meet AmyraNoorani,a four th-grade studentatBufordSenior Academy. Amyra’steachers areMrs.Buffoand Mrs. McGraw.Amyra is the BufordSenior AcademyReader of the Week.

“Amy ra is an am az i ng re ader an dl ea ds he rc la ss in le ar ni ng ab ou tn ew th in gs,” says Mrs. Sa ra Bl an ke ns hi p, BSA Me di aS pe ci al is t. “S he’s ah ard wo rk er an dh as ac hi ev ed at on of re ad in gg oa ls so fa rt hi syea r! ”

Amyrareally enjoys reading fantasy novels.She claims she lovesbooks in the fantasy genre because “it’sabout usually something thatwould never happen in real life.”Soitisnot surprising at all thatshe lovesreading the Harry Potter book series the most.Amyra states, “I like it because it is areally good series with lots of adventureand magic.”J.K.Rowling,the author of the Harry Potter series is her favorite author because she is atalentedauthor and grabsAmyra’s attention.

Hanging out with her mom, dad,and little brother is one of Amyra’sfavoritepastimes.In herfreetime,she also enjoys playing Minecraftand Robloxonher iPad,reading books,and eating desser ts thathavechocolate in them. Amyrasays she used to play softball but now enjoys playing basketball.

Congratulations Amyra! Keep up the good work!GoWolves!

Themedia specialists at the BufordSenior Academyand BufordAcademyselectthe BufordCitySchools Reader of the Week. Bufordstudents grades first through fifthhaveachanceatbeing named the Reader of the Week.Inaddition to appearing online and in print, the Reader of the Week receives avoucher to Stars and Strikes for all of their hardwork

The following reports were filed by the Gwinnett County Police Department between January 13, 2020 and February 8, 2020.

• Reports for forced entry residential burglary were filed for locations in the 3400 block of Harvest Ridge Lane, 2300 block of Harvest Ridge Circle, and 3400 block of Hard Creek Lane. Buford addresses.

• A non-forced residential burglary took place in the 5200 block of Pine Branch Circle in Sugar Hill.

• An attempted residential burglary was reported in the 3600 block of Hamilton Mill Road in Buford.

• Officers responded to calls of forced entry non-residential burglary in the 1700 block of Horizon Parkway, 2900 block of Buford Drive, and 2700 block of Hamilton Mill Road. Buford addresses.

• Non-forced non-residential burglaries happened in the 3800 block of Thompson Mill Road and in the 4200 block of Buford Drive. Buford addresses.

• Robberies occurred in the 5800 block of Cumming Highway in Sugar Hill, 1300 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford, and 3400 block of Braselton Highway in Dacula.

• Reports of indecent exposure were filed for locations in the 3300 block of Buford Drive and in the 1600 block of Buford Highway. Buford addresses.

• Police responded to a sexual battery call in the 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford.

• Sodomy was reported in the 2300 block of Braselton Highway in Buford.

• Prostitution was reported at the I-985/ Buford Drive on-ramp in Buford.

• Motor vehicle theft happened in the 5800 block of Cumming Highway in Sugar Hill, 5000 block of West Broad Street in Sugar Hill, 3600 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 700 block of Pagoda Court in Buford, 1800 block of Braselton Highway in Buford, and 3500 block of Carriage Glen Way in Dacula.

• Officers filed reports for entering auto thefts for locations in the 4900 block of Spring Hill Drive in Sugar Hill, 4200 block of South Lee Street in Buford, 3200 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 1400 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard (3 incidents) in Buford, 1900 block of Appaloosa Mill Circle in Buford, 3100 block of Cedar Glade Lane in Buford, and 2700 block of General Lee Way in Buford.

• Police responded to disorderly conduct calls in the 1000 block of Level Creek Road in Sugar Hill, 5200 block of Pass Court in Sugar Hill, and 1900 block of Buford Mill Drive in Buford.

• Arrests for DUI were made in the 6000 block of Mountain Ridge Circle in Sugar Hill, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard at Spring Hill Drive in Sugar Hill, Peachtree Industrial Boulevard at Nelson Brogdon Boulevard in Sugar Hill, Buford Drive at South Bogan Road in Buford, Buford Drive at I-85 N On-Ramp in Buford, and Camp Branch Road at Pucketts Mill Road in Buford.

• Reports for theft by deception were filed in the 400 block of Sandtrap Lane in Sugar Hill, 900 block of Sugar Crossing Lane in Sugar Hill, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3200 block of Woodward Crossing Boulevard in Buford, and 3100 block of Morgan Box Lane in Buford.

• Theft by taking reports were filed for locations in the 5300 block of Azalea Crest Lane in Sugar Hill, 1600 block of Marakanda Trail in Buford, 2400 block of Buford Dam Road in Buford, 4300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 900 block of King Horn Court in Buford, 2400 block of Satellite Boulevard in Buford, 3700 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3400 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 1700 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford, 3100 block of Gravel Springs Road in Buford, 4200 block of Thompson Mill Road in Buford, 3200 block of South Puckett Road in Buford, 3900 block of Express Drive in Buford, and 2600 block of Talley Lane in Buford.

• Shoplifting was reported in the 4900 block of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard in Sugar Hill, 4100 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 1700 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford, 3200 block of Woodward Crossing Boulevard in Buford, 2600 block of Hamilton Mill Road in Buford, and 2200 block of Hamilton Creek Parkway in Dacula.

• Reports of mail theft were filed for locations in the 300 block of West Shadburn Avenue in Buford and in the 2900 block of Crabapple Lane in Dacula.

• Officers responded to calls of simple battery in the 5900 block of Wild River View in Sugar Hill, 6000 block of Trail Hikes Drive in Sugar Hill, 2900 block of Crescent Ridge Drive in Buford, 1600 block of Marakanda Trail in Buford, 4600 block of Nelson Brogdon Boulevard in Sugar Hill, 1700 block of Satellite Boule-

Staff Writers: Nida Merchant

Staff Photographers:

Jennifer Johnson

vard in Buford, 2300 block of Cameron Drive in Buford, 1900 block of Buford Mill Drive in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 2700 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford, 2300 block of Copper Trail Lane in Buford, 3400 block of Southpointe Hill Drive in Buford, 2700 block of Bogan Creek Drive in Buford, 2800 block of Ivy Brook Lane in Buford, 3300 block of Camens Way in Buford, 2500 block of Hamilton Mill Road in Buford, 2300 block of Duncans Shore Drive in Buford, 5700 block of Apple Grove Road in Buford, 4300 block of Braselton Highway in Hoschton, 2500 block of Kirkstone Drive in Buford, and 2600 block of Maitlin Way in Buford.

• Battery occurred in the 6200 block of Sparkling Cove Lane in Buford, 500 block of Power Avenue in Buford, 3000 block of North Bogan Road in Buford, Buford Drive at South Lee Street in Buford, 1700 block of Satellite Boulevard in Buford, 3300 block of Buford Drive in Buford, 1800 block of Appaloosa Lane (2 incidents) in Buford, 2300 block of Attewood Drive in Buford, 3500 block of Huddlestone Lane in Buford, 3700 block of Ridge Drive in Buford, and 1800 block of Trilogy Park Drive in Hoschton.

• Police filed reports for simple assault in the 1000 block of Island Ford Road, 3300 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard, 2200 block of Whitebluff Way, and 4200 block of Tuggle Road. Buford addresses.

• Aggravated assault with a knife or cutting tool occurred in the 2000 block of Rock Creek Road in Buford and in the 2000 block of Tulip Petal Road in Auburn.

www.northgwinnettvoice.com • info@northgwinnettvoice.com

Amy Davis

• Officers responded to aggravated assault with a gun calls in the 600 block of Morning Creek Lane in Suwanee (3 incidents), and 2900 block of Buford Drive in Buford (2 incidents).

www.NorthGwinnettVoice.com

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

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

John Barnhardt - Creative Director John@northgwinnettvoice.com

Your Town. Your Paper. Your Voice. @northgwinnettvoice | @ gwinnettvoice

Anoshka Ramkumar

Contributing Writers: Lynn Bowman

Brandon Hembree

Nicole Burns

Nicole Seitz

David Hanks

Cathy

Manning Moore

William Curtis

On the cover

The new Buford High School sees its first-ever snowfall on Feb. 8, 2020.

Photos - Jessica Wilson

• Reports for second-degree criminal damage to property were filed for locations in the 300 block of Johnson Road in Suwanee, 1600 block of Horizon Parkway in Buford, 1100 block of Horizon Parkway in Buford, 3400 block of Financial Center Way in Buford, 2400 block of Chandler Grove Drive in Buford, and 2700 block of Ivy Mill Drive in Buford.

• First-degree criminal property damage took place in the 2700 block of Mall of Georgia Boulevard in Buford.

Restaurant Inspections

The following restaurant health inspection scores were pulled from the Georgia Department of Public Health between January 28, 2020 and February 7, 2020.

• 5 Brothers Pizza and Pasta; 1944 Braselton Hwy Suite 109 Buford; ........................................ 91

• American Deli; 4060 Buford Dr Suite D & E Buford; ............................................................... 92

• American Deli; 2725 Hamilton Mill Rd, Suite 1100, Buford; 88

• Asia Grill and Buffet; 3843 Buford Dr Buford; ........................................................................... 80

• Bare Bones Steakhouse; 115 E Main St Suite C12 Buford;........................................................ 91

• Bear’s Best Golf Club; 5342 Aldeburgh Dr Suwanee; 99

• Buffalo Wild Wings; 3333 Buford Dr Suite 2202 E Buford; 100

• Burger King #13287; 1725 Mall of Georgia Blvd Buford; ......................................................... 89

• Charley’s Philly Steaks at the Mall of Georgia; 3333 Buford Dr Buford; 96

• Chicken Run; 1325 Buford Hwy NE Suite 106 Buford; 81

• Chuck E. Cheese’s; 1690 Mall of Georgia Blvd Buford; ............................................................. 99

• City Lines; 1862 Auburn Rd Suite 113 Dacula; 91

• Courtyard Marriott; 1405 Mall of Georgia Blvd Buford; 85

• Craft Burgers by Shane; 315 Peachtree Industrial Blvd SUITE 110 Suwanee; ....................... 96

• Crazy Dough Pizza; 5019 W Broad St NE Suite M115 Sugar Hill; 100

• Dominicks; 22 Buford Village Way Suite 211 Buford; 90

• Dunkin Donuts; 565 Dacula Rd Dacula; .................................................................................... 92

• Echo; 2790 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd SUITE 280 Suwanee; 96

• El Taco Jalisco; 4545 S Lee St Suite A Buford; 96

• G & W; 3333 Buford Dr SUITE 1075 Buford; 97

• Golden Seven; 320 Town Center Ave Suite C-8 Suwanee; ........................................................ 85

• Grandma’s NY Pizza; 2855 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suite 370 Suwanee; .......................... 84

• Haagen Dazs Mall of Georgia; 3333 Buford Dr Suite K133 ST-01 Buford; 100

• Hardees #1500560; 1520 Buford Hwy NE Buford; .................................................................... 99

• Hardee’s #1505671; 2686 Hamilton Mill Rd Buford; ................................................................. 80

• IHOP #4479; 4122 GA-20 Buford; 96

• Kaito Wings and Hibachi; 1330 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Suite D1 Buford; ........................ 97

• Kangseo; 2790 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suite 130 Suwanee;............................................... 85

• Kani House; 3208 Buford Dr Buford; 99

• KFC; 3277 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suwanee; ...................................................................... 86

• Kroger/Starbucks; 2700 Braselton Hwy Dacula; ........................................................................ 92

• Kung Fu Tea; 3480 Financial Center Way Suite M1000 Buford; 100

• La Mixteca Tamales House; 1185 Old Peachtree Rd NW Suite D Suwanee;.......................... 96

• Oregano Latin Bar & Grill; 1605 Buford Hwy NE Suite S Buford; .......................................... 92

• Orient Garden; 2880 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suwanee; 87

• Papa John’s Pizza #1707; 1052 Peachtree Industrial Blvd Suite #4 Suwanee; ......................... 90

• Pazzi’s; 3320 Buford Dr Buford;.................................................................................................... 84

• Pizza Hut #4774; 1525 Buford Hwy NE Buford; 96

• Pizza Hut 4243; 5885 Cumming Hwy NE Suite 301 Buford; ................................................. 100

• Planet Smoothie; 320 Town Center Ave C-7 Suwanee; ........................................................... 100

• Praise the Lard; 1350 Buford Hwy NE Suite 109 Buford; 70; re-inspection 100

• Provino’s Italian Restaurant; 3420 Buford Dr Buford; ............................................................. 100

• Rico’s World Kitchen Downtown; 306 W Main St Buford; ..................................................... 100

• Rushing Trading Company; 5029 W Broad St NE Suite T132 Sugar Hill; 100

• Smokey Bones; 3333 Buford Dr Suite VB01C Buford; .............................................................. 62

• Soju Box; 1291 Old Peachtree Rd NW Unit 226 & 227 Suwanee; ......................................... 100

• Sonic Drive In #5754; 812 Dacula Rd Dacula; 98

• Sonic Drive In; 3225 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Rd Suwanee; ..................................................... 96

• Subway Sandwich #45883; 3280 Hamilton Mill Rd Suite 301 Buford;.................................... 97

• Sugar Hill Subs; 4450 Nelson Brogdon Blvd Suite A8 Buford; 93

• Sushi Niko Niko Hibachi; 3260 Buford Dr Suite 20 and 30 Buford; 60; re-inspection ........ 80

• Ted’s Montana Grill Mall of Georgia; 1680 Mall of Georgia Blvd Suite 1755 Buford; .......... 97

• The Diner at Sugar Hill; 4500 Nelson Brogdon Blvd Sugar Hill; 95

• Vesuvio Pizza; 39 E Main St NE Buford; ................................................................................... 100

• Waba 2; 1291 Old Peachtree Rd NW Suite 109 Suwanee;......................................................... 96

• Waffle House #1400; 3270 Buford Dr Buford; 91

• Wendy’s #23; 2385 Mall of Georgia Blvd Buford; ...................................................................... 95

• Yogli Mogli Frozen Yogurt; 320 Town Center Ave Suite C6 Suwanee; ................................... 98

• Yuka Roll and Pho; 1197 Old Peachtree Rd NW Suite A Suwanee; 86

Minutes from the February 3, 2020, Buford Commission Meeting and the February 10, 2020, Sugar Hill Council Meeting are available online at www.NorthGwinnettVoice.com.

Man killed his mother at their Suwanee residence

Alicia Couch Payne

SUWANEE — On Sunday evening, police responded to a call about a man intentionally running into oncoming traffic at approximately 8:17 p.m. Upon making contact with the male, later identified as Otto Kim, 45 of Suwanee, officers were told by Kim that he had killed his mother at their home on Chelsea Falls Lane in unincorporated Suwanee.

Officers arrived at the residence to find 81-year-old Myung Kim with severe injuries to her face caused by her son stabbing/ cutting her. The mother was rushed to a local hospital but later died of her injuries.

Investigators believe that the incident stemmed from a domestic dispute between the mother in son from earlier that evening. Otto Kim was arrested and charged with Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated

Otto Kim, 45 of Suwanee has been charged with the murder of his 81-year-old mother Myung Kim also of Suwanee. Photo – Gwinnett County Police Department

Battery, and Aggravated Assault. He remains in custody at the Gwinnett County Jail.

Court records for Otto Kim show that he has a history of violence dating back to 2012 in which he was charged with battery. As part of his sentence, Otto Kim was required to do 100 hours of community service but a judge later ruled that he was unable to complete the community service due to mental health issues according to court documents.

Hamilton Mill Road business burglarized

Staff Reports

BUFORD — An officer with the Gwinnett County Police Department responded to a “glass break” alarm at a local business along Hamilton Mill Road.

An officer arrived at the Sherwin Williams store located at 2786 Hamilton Mill Rd. in unincorporated Buford on January 22, 2020, at approximately 3:30 a.m. after receiving an alarm system call for glass breaking. Fourteen days before

this burglary, a retired deputy was murdered next door at the O’Reilly Auto Parts store.

The officer scanned the exterior of the store and noticed a side door of the building had been pried open. There was red paint on the door from the tool used to pry open the door. An exterior camera near the door had been tilted upwards as to not capture anything at that door. After the business was checked out and no suspects were found, the business keyholder was called to the scene. The keyholder arrived and informed the officer that three paint sprayers valued at a total of $4,700 were taken.

At the time that the report for this incident was taken, the security camera footage was not able to be retrieved. No suspect information was available.

Local Co-Op assisting record numbers causing inventory to plummet

Staff Reports

BUFORD — After setting a record high on the number of clients assisted last week, the North Gwinnett Co-Op is reaching out to the community in efforts to help restock their shelves. The North Gwinnett Co-Op is a vital service to local residents who are having financial difficulty and are in need of assistance in making ends meet. The Co-Op is one of only a very limited few that have the resources to help people.

Donations of gently used (clean) clothes, shoes, and household items are needed to increase inventory at Second Blessings, a thrift store operated by the Co-Op.

Donations can be received in the back of the building at the loading dock M 6-8 p.m.; W, T, F 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A team of volunteers are available to unload items, as well as, providing a tax donation receipt.

The North Gwinnett Co-Op is located at 4395 Commerce Dr., Buford GA 30518.

For more information please visit: https:// northgwinnettcoop.org/ or call (770) 2719793.

“Together we can make a difference in our community.”

Items needed:

Dish Soap

Laundry Detergent

Paper Towels

Dry Beans

White Rice

Spaghetti Sauce

Juice/ Juice boxes

Vienna Sausage Spam

Mayonnaise

Ketchup

Mustard

BBQ Sauce

Salad Dressing Snacks (Popcorn, Chips, Cookies) Pudding

Canned Pineapple

Canned Mandarin Oranges

Sugar

Coffee/Creamer

Tea

Sloppy Joe Mix

Black-eyed peas

Northern Beans

Tri-Beans

Miscellaneous Vegetables

Refried beans

Salsa

Grits

Syrup

Shampoo

Conditioner

Body Wash

Boxed tissues

Depends L/XL

Diapers 4,5,6

US Army Corps to hold public meetings over Lake Lanier’s future

Staff Reports

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) released a statement recently detailing their plans to hold public informative meetings that goes over the results of the Recreation Capacity Study and Master Plan Update for Lake Sidney Lanier.

The Corps of Engineers has four open house meetings scheduled in which the public is encouraged to attend. The current Master Plan for Lake Lanier is from 1987 and needs to be updated. The USACE started the process which includes capacity studies, public forums, surveys, and more in October 2017 and is expected to be completed at the end of 2020.

According to the USACE, “A Master Plan is the strategic land-use management

document that guides the comprehensive management and development of all project recreational, natural, and cultural resources throughout the life of the water resources project.”

The findings, data, analysis, and proposed management actions will be presented to the public at these open houses.

The open house locations are:

Open House #1 — Monday, Feb. 24, 4 – 9 p.m. - Dawson County, Kilough Elementary, 1063 Kilough Church Road, Dawsonville, GA 30534

Open House #2 — Tuesday, Feb. 25, 4 – 9 p.m. - Hall County, Hall County Government Center, 2875 Browns Bridge Road, Gainesville, GA 30504

Open House #3 — Wednesday, Feb. 26, 4 – 9 p.m. - Forsyth County, Central Park Banquet Room, 2300 Keith Bridge Road, Cumming, GA 30040

Open House #4 — Thursday, Feb. 27, 4 – 9 p.m. - Gwinnett County, USACE

Lake Sidney Lanier Project Management Office, 1050 Buford Dam Road, Buford, GA 30518

For more information on the Master Plan process, visit https://go.usa.gov/ xdbzm. You may also call the Lake Lanier Project Management Office at (770) 945-9531.

US Census 2020: What you need to know about it

- Part One

Alicia Couch Payne

The Constitution of the United States mandates that every ten years a census or count of the population of the country takes place. The nonpartisan U.S. Census Bureau conducts the census. The 2020 census will be the 24th time that the United States has counted its population since 1790.

For many government entities, the data collected during the census becomes vital to their operations. According to the U.S. Census Bureau’s website, “The census provides critical data that lawmakers, business owners, teachers, and many others use to provide daily services, products, and support for you and your community.” Billions of Federal government dollars get distributed to hospitals, fire departments, roads, schools, and other

resources based on the data from the census. The census results also determine the number of seats each state will receive in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Each home will receive an invitation to respond to a short questionnaire by phone, by mail, or online. It is required by law that people participate in the census by answering the survey. The surveys will be mailed out and arriving at homes between March 12-20. By April 1, Census Day, every household in the country should have received their census survey. Responses should be sent in before May 1. Starting on May 1, census workers will begin visiting homes that did not respond to the mailed survey to record the number of residents at that home.

The State of Georgia, Gwinnett County, City of Buford, and other local municipalities lost out on millions of dollars in federal funding over the last ten years because of inaccurate population data because residents failed to complete the census in 2010. Loosing out on federal money impacts everyone including those who failed to complete the census. It is imperative that every household accurately completes its survey. Additional articles will be coming soon in which The Voice goes more in-depth into the 2020 Census. The U.S. Census Bureau’s 2020 Census website can be accessed at https://2020census.gov/.

Fathers and their little princesses dance the night away

Alicia Couch Payne and Dawn Gammon

BUFORD — The Kiwanis Club of North Gwinnett hosted their annual Father-Daughter Dances on Friday and Saturday night, February 7 and 8 at the Buford Community Center. This year marks 11 years that the Kiwanis Club has held the event which has continued to grow each year. This year, 1,100 fathers and daughters attended the event. People could pick from three dances. There was one dance on Friday and two on Saturday. Tickets sell fast as this dance is the best and most well known Father-Daughter dance in the area.

David Williams, a Kiwanis Club member and local realtor, had a dream over 13 years ago to create a special dance for Fathers and Daughters of all ages to celebrate together! The Kiwanis volunteers start planning this event in early October and after hundreds of hours invested they host a beautiful dance for our community every February. David Williams believes “it’s just fun to watch the smiles come in and fun to watch the smiles as they go out, you feel like you have made a difference!”

The daughters feel like a princess and their Fathers have a chance to be a part of the special moments.

The dances were not just for the younger daughters, teenage and even adult daughters could be seen hitting the dance floor with their fathers. Many fathers and daughters have made the dance an annual tradition coming back each year. Fathers can be seen beaming with pride over their beautiful daughters. The pairs enjoyed dancing, food, a chocolate fountain, raffles, and professional photography along with the company of other father-daughter pairs in attendance.

The annual event is the main fundraiser for the Kiwanis Club’s scholarship fund. The Kiwanis Club of North Gwinnett awards $1,000 college scholarships to seniors that attend Buford High School, Lanier High School, Mill Creek High School, Mountain View High School, and North Gwinnett High School. Each Spring, Kiwanis Club members conduct interviews at each high school of seniors that would like to earn the scholarship. The members go through a thorough process to determine the seniors that will be awarded the scholarships.

The annual event could not be possible without the countless hours that the Kiwanis members put into it.

Local high school students including Key Club members from Buford High School volunteer at the dances and are key to helping to provide the fathers and daughters a night they will never forget.

Snow Day 2020

Alicia Couch Payne

Just as people had begun to doubt that we would see any snow this Winter, what should fall? Snow! The white stuff began to fall early in the morning on Saturday, February 8 at a steady rate bringing the accumulation in our area to around 3 inches. This was far more than weathermen predicted and more than enough for old and young alike to play in.

The steady snowfall made driving conditions treacherous for a time. Numerous cars spun out and got stuck. Police officers and tow truck drivers were the most popular people during the snowfall. As the day progressed, road conditions improved, however, many events

were canceled.

Saturday was supposed to be the opening day for the Buford Wolves baseball team. They were to debut their newly renovated field and facilities. The game got canceled as field conditions were not conducive to play. The snow forced region basketball games to be postponed until Monday as well.

Some kids felt robbed of a snow day since the snow fell on the weekend but school administrators rejoiced at the luck. They would not have to make the tough call to cancel school.

Parents and kids got creative to make themselves a makeshift sled to enjoy the snow with. Whether it was a kiddie pool, a plastic tote lid, or an actual sled, smiles could be seen on the faces of the people playing in the snow. It wouldn’t be a snow day without the obligatory snowman and impromptu snowball fight.

Snow Day 2020 is one to remember!

brought to you by The City of Buford STUDENT WEEK OF THE

William Sanders

5TH GRADE

Meet William Sanders, a fifth-grader at the Buford Senior Academy.William is the son of Barr ySanders and Connie Smith. He was borninGainesville, Ga. but grew up in the City of Buford. The Primrose School in Buford is where his educational career got star ted when he attended Pre-K there. From the Primrose School, William entered into the Buford City School System in kindergar ten at Buford Elementar ySchool. He has one older sibling, Emma Sanders, a sophomore at Buford High School.

William loves to be involved in activities within his community and school. He is in the Senior Academy Band. William was in the tech club last year and this year he is really enjoying his time in the chess club. He has played football for the last two years for Buford’syouth league. William loves to play academy soccer for All-In Futbol Club in Sugar Hill.

He maintains straight A’satthe Senior Academy.William’scurrent class schedule includes language ar ts, social studies, math, science, P.E., ar t, music, and tech. Social Studies is William’sfavorite subject. Williams says, “I like to learnabout the past and why things happened the way they did.”

William was asked to name the teacher that has had the biggest influence on him so far at Buford. He said the teachers (he insisted on naming two) are Dr.Chambers and Ms. McDaniel. William claims, “In Dr Chambers’sclass, we do alot of things that

make us think and help us realize things.” He relates that the reason why he says Ms. McDaniel has been one of the biggest influences on him is, “In Ms. McDaniels class, we do alot of experiments which are alot of fun and make learning fun.”

Although William is quite young, he was able to confidently relate his future aspirations. He says he wishes to become an aeronautics engineer or aprofessional soccer player

When not busy with school and the many activities that he’sinvolved in, William can often be found playing outside, playing with his dog, ablack lab named Maddie Lynn or playing his video games with his friends. William has abit of adaredevil streak with some of his favorite pastimes. He says he also enjoys riding his mini bike, rock climbing, and doing ninja warrior type courses.

William’sfavorite music genre iscountr y music and his favorite song iscalled, “God’sCountr y”. He really enjoys an older classic car toon show,“TheTom and Jerr y Show” because they make him laugh. “Star Wars,Rise of Skywalker” is William’s all-time favorite movie.

Being aBuford Wolf is about beinga well-rounded student and citizen. William exemplifies those standards. He is ahard worker and is arespectful young man. No doubt he will continue to make his community and family proudthat he is a Buford Wolf

“A Night at the Movies” dance performance captivated audiences

Anoshka Ramkumar

On January 31 and February 1, Buford High School Dance had its second-semester performance through their “A Night at the Movies” themed show. Dancers, freshmen through seniors from intro to advanced levels took the stage in a spectacular show with music from commonly known movies such as “Pitch Perfect”, “Skyfall”, “Space Jam”, “Shrek”, and many more.

Buford High School is nestled in a comfortable and caring community of residents who have supported their city for generations. Children have always felt supported and cared for by adults and teachers, allowing them to grow and prosper into not only successful but happy human beings.

“I think we have the most supportive school board, school system, and administration, as well as, community in the State of Georgia. I truly believe that our community comes out in droves to support our students and what they can

STAR students and teachers are celebrated at county-wide luncheon

Alicia Couch Payne

PEACHTREE CORNERS — Gwinnett’s brightest high school students were honored at a luncheon on February 7 at the Hilton Atlanta Northeast in Peachtree Corners. The Professional Association of Georgia Educators (PAGE) Foundation and Partnership

do,” says choreographer Ashley Smith on how the dance program and its students are supported by the community. She adds, “In the end, it is not my goal to turn all my students into professional dancers but I would like them to leave with the respect towards the art of dance and to feel loved and supported by everyone around them”.

Audience members enjoyed a high energy, fast-paced show with several moments allowing them to connect with the performers. Proud parents and family members were in attendance and fully engaged throughout the show.

“My sons love the dance program here at Buford. I know that my sophomore looks forward to dance the most during his school day and it is by far his favorite class. Ashley (Smith) works so hard for this program and she loves all of her students,” claims Ann Riza, a mother of two boys in the Intermediate 2 and Intro Dance classes.

For a few select students, this is their senior year, meaning their last dance show of their high school careers. “It’s just so bizarre since I have always been the baby, I’ve had two older sisters who graduated from the theatre and band programs here and I think what I’m going to miss the most is the people and the community here,” says Jesse Hanks, a senior who is also a part of Buford’s musical theatre program.

“I came back into the dressing room after our finale and everyone was piling up behind me and I just kind of started to cry because I have such a connection

Gwinnett teamed up to host the annual event. The luncheon presented by Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta celebrated the 30 STAR students and the teachers that each student picked as their STAR teacher. Each high school in Gwinnett County, as well as, Buford High School participated in the event.

A STAR student is a senior from each high school with the highest SAT score and must also be in the top 10% of their class. Each STAR student is allowed to pick one teacher who has had a strong influence on their academic career.

“It’s an honor to celebrate Gwinnett’s hard-working students each year at the STAR luncheon,” said Adam Forrand, Vice President of Education, Talent & Leadership Development for Partnership Gwinnett. “These students and their inspiring teachers are the

with this place and I’m going to miss it so much,” states Hope Fowler, a senior who is a part of chamber choir, theatre, and dance at Buford High School.

With such a wonderful and strong community to support these students in whatever they may want to pursue,

foundation of success in our community and we look forward to seeing their continued success.”

The STAR students and teachers from the North Gwinnett area that achieved this recognition are:

Buford High School - Ye Choi (STAR Student) and Tim Harris (STAR Teacher)*

Buford High School - John Alan Williams (STAR Student) and Justin Johnson (STAR Teacher)*

Lanier High School - Stella Choi (STAR Student) and Tamaiko Chappell (STAR Teacher)

Mill Creek High School - Elijah Shaw (STAR Student) and Amy Carmichael (STAR Teacher)

North Gwinnett High School - Maya Chande (STAR Student) and Matthew Johnson (STAR Teacher)

these students are sure to go far and achieve many things in their future. It is guaranteed that the Buford community’s parents, administrators, and school officials will continue to support the “Triple A Excellence” standards for many years to come.

* Tie Congratulations to these high achieving seniors and their teachers!

A look at the busy world of sports in February

Alicia Couch Payne

February has to be the busiest month for high school athletic departments. Winter sports like basketball, wrestling, gymnastics, and riflery are still active while Spring sports such as baseball, soccer, lacrosse, tennis, and track are all getting underway. The Winter sports are entering the postseason and the North Gwinnett area is well represented in the playoffs. Although, Swim and dive had its state meet last weekend at Georgia Tech.

Here’s a brief summary of what is going on in athletics at Buford, Lanier, and North Gwinnett.

“This weekend Woodland (Cartersville) is the favorite followed by Veterans, then us. I think if we wrestle well and possibly get a few upsets by a few guys, we can make the team race interesting,” says BHS wrestling head coach Tom Beuglas on his team’s chances going into the traditional state championships. Photo - Cathy Moore

BUFORD

Basketball

The Buford High School boys and girls basketball teams won their region and will begin the state playoffs on Saturday, Feb. 15. The boys’ team (21-6) beat Cedar Shoals 88-86 to clinch the region title. Buford’s girls (26-1) took on Loganville and held on for the win with a final score of 47-35. Buford will host the first round of playoffs on Saturday at the Buford Arena. The girls compete against Grady at 4 p.m. followed by the boys against Decatur at 5:30 p.m.

Wrestling

Buford wrestling qualified all 14 team members of their team to be able to compete in the Class AAAAA traditional state championship meet last Saturday, Feb. 8. The Wolves competed in the Class AAAAA Section A meet in Barnesville. Buford produced four first-place finishes from Blaine Bergey (182 pounds), Charlie Darracott (160), Evan DiMaggio (220), and Nick Stonecheck (152). The Wolves will compete at the traditional state championships in Macon from Feb. 13-15.

Spring Sports Highlights

The Buford girls soccer team has started their season off strong with an overall record of 2-0-1.

Buford baseball had their field renovated and was set to host an opening day celebration on Saturday, Feb. 8. It had to be canceled due to it snowing. The Wolves’ first game will now be on Friday, Feb. 14 at 5:30 p.m. at home against Lambert.

Buford boys lacrosse started their season

with a big win against Northview on Feb. 11. The Wolves had an impressive 14-8 victory over the Titans.

LANIER

Basketball

The Lanier boys basketball team won their region championship on Monday against Gainesville. Lanier (22-5, 10-0) will host Sprayberry in the first round of state playoffs on Feb. 15 at 6:30 p.m. The Lanier girls basketball team are region runner-ups to Dacula. Lanier (17-10, 9-1) will host Sequoyah on Friday at 5 p.m.

Wrestling

The Longhorns will send six wrestlers to the traditional state championships in Macon on Feb. 13-15.

Spring Sports Highlights

Lanier girls tennis beat Mountain View 5-0 with Jaelyn Smith, Sandy Nguyen and Laura Blanco winning their singles matches. Victoria Poythress and Presley Wilmot along with Madison Dorris and Stella Choi won in doubles.

Lanier boys soccer team won their opening game at Buford with a final score of 2-0.

NORTH GWINNETT

Basketball

North Gwinnett boys basketball team stunned Collins Hill with an 86-55 win to capture the Region 6-AAAAAAA title on Feb. 8. This is their first region title since

2014. They will host Archer on Friday, Feb. 14 at 7:30 p.m.

Wrestling

The Bulldogs qualified six wrestlers for state during their Class AAAAAAA Section A competition last Saturday. Rex McDaniel (145 pounds) came in first at the section meet. Those six athletes will compete in the traditional state tournament in Macon on Feb. 13-15.

Swim

& Dive

North’s boys swimming team won the State AAAAAAA Championship title on Feb. 8 at the Georgia Tech Aquatic Center. Their 200-yard freestyle relay team placed third and the 400-yard freestyle relay team placed fourth. Luke Han was a key component to the Bulldog’s win. For the girls, Courtney Niemann led the way with several top-five performances.

Spring Sports Highlights

North Gwinnett girls lacrosse started their season off strong with a convincing 19-9 win over Denmark at home on Feb. 12.

North’s baseball team is nationally ranked with a MaxPreps preseason rank of no. 20. They will open their season at home on Saturday, Feb. 15 against no. 9 ranked Parkview. The Bulldogs are ranked first in the state by Prep Baseball Report. Perfect Game ranked North as the Nation’s no.4 top team in their preseason rankings. They have several topranked players including catcher Corey Collins (Sr.) - Georgia, outfielder Josh Shuler (Sr.) - South Carolina, infielder John Anderson (Sr.) - Georgia Tech, and pitcher Brandt Pancer (Sr.) - Stanford.

Local high school football players honored on National Signing Day

Staff Reports

All of the hard work put in by a sea of talented high school athletes has paid off in terms of netting a college scholarship.

The National Signing Day which is the day that college football recruits sign their Letters of Intent to play football for said college took place on February

5. Buford celebrated their signees in a ceremony on February 4 at the BHS Performing Arts Center while Lanier and North each held ceremonies on February

5. In addition to the National Signing Day, recruits were able to sign their letters during the early signing period back in December.

Here’s a breakdown of local high school senior football players who signed Letters of Intent so far this school year.

BUFORD

LB/TE Evan DiMaggio - Furman

DE Carlton Holley - Pikeville

CB Jalen Huff - Georgia Tech

WR Justice Johnson - Pikeville

WR/DB T. Lee - Arizona State

OL Seth McLaughlin - Alabama

K/P Hayden Olsen - Tennessee Tech

DE/LB Jackson Powell - Army

RB Elijah Turner - UNC Charlotte

LANIER

RB Taj Barnes - Fordham

WR/DB Nahil Perkins - Fordham

DL Jamar Rucks - Appalachian State

WR Cole Thornton - Fordham

LB Phillip Webb - LSU

NORTH GWINNETT

RB Devin Crosby - Mercer

DB Jarvis Cunningham - Lindsey Wilson

WR Josh Downs - North Carolina

DB Taylor Goodson - Mercer

WR D.J. Hart - North Dakota State

DE Jared Ivey - Georgia Tech

QB J.R. Martin - Elon

DE Chuck Smith - Wofford

In addition to the football players above, Buford honored Dylan Aikens (Bass Fishing, Emmanuel College) and Debra Ogundimu (Track, Kennesaw State) during the February 4 ceremony.

Chrystal Wood Hawley

Meet Chr ystal Wood Hawley,Buford High School Class of 2001. Chr ystal was bor ninGwinnett County to June and Phyllis Wood. She has one sibling, a45-year-old brother,Billy Palmer. Chr ystal was raised in the Buford area where she attended Har mony Elementar y School from kindergar ten through fifth grade. Seeking smaller class sizes and more oppor tunities, Chr ystal transfer red from Gwinnett County Public Schools to star t the sixth gradeatBuford Middle School

During high school, Chrystal was an extremely active student inboth athletics and the per for ming ar ts. She was a member of thevarsity cheer teams for both football and basketball all four years. It was during her junior and senior years that Chr ystal ser ved as captain of the cheer teams She even helped to establish the first Buford High School competitive cheer team in1997 after she completed an early gymnastics career. In 1999, Chr ystal represented BHS as the only Georgia NCA Allstar Cheerleader in the Hula Bowl in Honolulu, Hawaii where she per formed during the halftime show alongside LeAnn Rimes. From 1997 to 2001, Chr ystal was a member of the track team where she represented the Wolves at regionals in the 100-meter hurdles

Chr ystal not only enjoyed athletics but also took to per for ming ar ts. She was a member of the Bel Canto Chorale all four years at BHS. Each year, Chr ystal per for med in the Variety Show, as well as, competed in the One Act Play

Striving to be a well-rounded student, Chr ystal made sure to keep her grades up. She ended her high school career with a 3.5 GPA. Her favorite subjects were Anatomy and Economics Chr ystal says that the staff member who had the biggest influence on her was Ms Amy Wright “Ms Amy Wright always saw potential in me. She understood that I str uggled with math but made me feel valuable by always teaching me to emphasize things I was great at. She made math relatable in a way that I could succeed,” states Chr ystal

Followinggraduation,Chr ystal decided topursue acareer in the medical industr ywhich led her toattend Lanier Technical College where she studiednursing. After graduating from Lanier Tech in 2003, she went ontoSpirit Vision Bible College andgraduated in 2005. Chr ystal received the Leadership Award in 2003.

Where are

thCur rently,Chr ystal is the Director of Clinical Operations at Oaks Senior Living. She says she chose her career path because of herloveofseniors and “wanted to help change the way that the worldages.”

Ontop of her full-time career,Chrystal is also an author andmotivational speaker.InMarch, her children’sbook “She Must Love Me More” will be released onAmazon. Later this year,Chr ystal’s two manuscripts, “The Eter nal Cheerleader” and “Needle Movers”will also be released. Shedoes motivational speaking and gets to talk to large companies and organizations about time habits and productivity hacks in her signature talk,“Motherhood, Managementandthe Mundane: How To Show Up And Show Out Without Losing Your Sanity Along The Way”.

Chr ystal lives in Bar row County with her husband of eight years, Danny Rawley. They have four children; Chase, 21, Sydney,18, Will, 16, and Tr uett, 3. They enjoy camping, great food, and hanging with their family.The Rawley’s attend Bethlehem Church in Bar rowCounty.

Chr ystalsays that her time at Buford showed hertheresponsibility of leading teams and how to bringoutthe best in others. It also taughther that life tends to pass by quickly so choose to do big thingswith the life you have. Chr ystalisliving her life to the fullest Once aWolf, always aWolf!

eynow?

Friday, February 14, 2020

Kenneth Burel, age 85, of Sugar Hill, GA passed away Tuesday, February 11, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Bob and Nell Davis Burel; brothers, Bobby Burel, Stanley Burel. Mr. Burel is survived by his wife of sixty-one years, JoAnn Shelley Burel, Sugar Hill, GA; children, Kenya and Billy Mattie, Cumming, GA, Karla Burel, Cumming, GA; grandchildren, Duane Bradford, Deven Bradford, Chase and Kala Mattie, Mallory Mattie, McKenzie Mattie, Andrew Grogan; great-granddaughter, Ava Bradford; brother, Douglas and Barbara Burel, Buford, GA; sisters-in-law, Barbara E. Taylor, Braselton, GA, Dixie Williams, Winder, GA; brother-in-law, Lindsey Smith, Lilburn, GA; several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mr. Burel was born on November 2, 1934, in Buford, GA. He was a 1953 graduate of Sugar Hill School. Mr. Burel was a veteran of the U. S. Air Force. Funeral services were held on Thursday, February 13, 2020, in the Chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home. Rev. Mari Lane Brooks and Rev. Lonnie Fenton officiated.

James Edward Ramsey, age 72, of Buford, GA passed away on Friday, February 7, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herman and Maggie Ruth Ramsey; sister, Evelyn Earl; and brothers, Cecil Ramsey, Early Herman Ramsey and Eddie Fred Ramsey. Mr. Ramsey is survived by his beloved nieces, Eloise Finch, Buford, GA, Shirley Ramsey, Buford, GA and Rhonda Ramsey, Buford, GA; beloved nephews, Milo Gholston, Buford, GA, Darrell Ramsey, Baltimore, MD, Eddie Ramsey, Jr., Gainesville, GA and Eddie Wayne Ramsey, Buford, GA; and several cousins. Mr. Ramsey was born on April 18, 1947, in Buford, GA. He was retired from Bona Allen Company in Buford, GA as a supervisor after twenty years of service. He was a caregiver to Dorothy Grace Higgins, the late Joyce Higgins Radford and the late Mr. and Mrs. Carroll Higgins of Buford, GA. Mr. Ramsey was very helpful and assisted the shut-ins in the Buford area. He was an usher at Flanigan Funeral Home on the funerals of his community. He was a member of Union Baptist Church in Buford, GA where he served on the Usher Board. Mr. Ramsey will be greatly missed by his family and friends. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2020, at 12:00 noon at Union Baptist Church in Buford, GA with Pastor Teffany Pierce officiating. Interment will follow at Hillcrest

OBITS & SERVICES

Cemetery in Buford, GA. A wake will be held on Friday evening, February 14 from 7:00 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 S. Lee St., Buford GA 30518

Mary Herrin Autry, age 75, of Buford, GA passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2020. She was preceded in death by her husband of fifty years, Bobby Gene Autry. She is survived by her children, Jeff and Sheila Autry, Jefferson, GA, Steve and Nicole Autry, Loganville, GA, Greg Autry, Buford, GA; grandchildren, Zack and Chelsea Autry, Buford, GA, Layla Autry, Bethlehem, GA, Jacob Autry, Loganville, GA, Sarah Autry, Loganville, GA; great-granddaughter, Luciana Autry-Velazquez; sister, Mildred Smallwood, Duluth, GA; brother, Michael and Judy Herrin, Albany, GA; sisters-in-law, Shirley Herrin, Carrollton, GA, Geneva Evans, Duluth, GA, Robin and William Woodruff, Auburn, GA; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. Mrs. Autry was born on June 27, 1944, in Atlanta, GA. She was a 1961 graduate of Norcross High School in Norcross, GA. Funeral services were held on Sunday, February 9, 2020, at the People’s Baptist Church in Flowery Branch. Rev. Chris Hulsey, Rev. Jacob Hulsey, and Rev. Matthew Calvert officiated. Interment followed at the People’s Baptist Church Cemetery. Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 S. Lee St, Buford GA 30518

Bobby A. Welch, age 77, of Buford, GA passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2020. He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Jeannette Jones Welch. He is survived by his wife of fifty-three years, Jackie Harrell Welch, Buford, GA; children, Bob Welch, Buford, GA, Patty and Michael Bardwell, Monroe, GA; grandchildren, Tabatha Welch, Bobbie Welch, Madison Bardwell, Peyton Bardwell; brothers and sisters-in-law, Larry and Judy Welch, Smyrna, GA, Dianne and Doug Stonecypher, Lawrenceville, GA, Mike and Marty Harrell, Tybee Island, GA; aunts, Gladys Burke, Buford, GA, Joanne Kimbro, Buford, GA, and several nieces, nephews and cousins. Mr. Welch was born on October 8, 1942, in Lawrenceville, GA. He was a 1961 graduate of Tucker High School in Tucker, GA. Funeral services were held on Sunday, February 9, 2020, in the chapel of Flanigan Funeral Home, 4400 S. Lee St., Buford GA. Rev. Grady Mosley officiated. Interment followed at Broadlawn Memorial Gardens

Daniel Marcus Butts, age 27, of Buford, GA passed away on Thursday, February 6, 2020. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Maria Chipelo; and paternal grandfather, Herbert Butts. He is survived by his father, David M. Butts, Buford, GA; mother, Rosa M. Butts, Buford, GA; brother, Michael D. and wife Cheryl Butts, Plymouth, MA; sister, Jill M. and husband, Brian Queally, Milton, MA; five beloved nieces; one beloved nephew; maternal grandfather, Manuel Chipelo, New Bedford, MA; paternal grandmother, Helen A. Butts, Rochester, MA; and several aunts, uncles and cousins. Daniel was born on April 14, 1992, in New Bedford, MA. He was a 2010 graduate of Central Gwinnett High School in Lawrenceville, GA and attended the University

of Massachusetts in Dartmouth, MA. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 15, 2020, at St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church in Marion, MA at 11:00 a.m. A reception will follow the service. The family will receive friends on Saturday, February 22, 2020, from 2:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. at Flanigan Funeral Home in Buford, GA.

Mary Olwyn Carpenter, age 94, of Suwanee, GA peacefully passed away Wednesday, February 5, 2020, at her home. Mary is preceded in death by her husband of 59 years Forrest Carpenter; and parents John L. and Olwyn G. Kelley. She will be greatly missed by her son Bryant Carpenter (Nancy) of Suwanee, GA; daughter Kim Moore (Jim) of Lexington, KY; sister Elizabeth K. Leach of Nashville, TN; and grandchildren Adam Carpenter (Megan), Sarah Carpenter, Kyle Moore, and Grant Moore. Mary was a member of the Duluth United Methodist Church. She graduated from Vanderbilt University with her bachelor’s degree, and from George Peabody College for Teachers with her master’s degree. No local services are scheduled at this time. Arrangements by Crowell Brothers Funeral Homes & Crematory, 201 Morningside Dr., Buford, GA 30518.