’’ Feature Story
 
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SPLOST: New trail access, playgrounds coming soon
There will soon be a new Ivy Creek Greenway access trail from Buford Drive/State Route 20 near the Mall of Georgia. The existing 2.7-mile long greenway trail starts at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center and ends near Gravel Springs Road. The 12-foot wide asphalt multi-purpose trail will be 960 feet long, running roughly parallel to the I-85 southbound exit ramp...READ MORE

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  Protecting Our Resources Tax Assessor's Office Around Gwinnett
 

Weather response plan produces positive results during flood

 

Tag office closed for computer maintenance

  Holiday performances by Gwinnett public schools  
 

Following more than a week of record amounts of rainfall, much of Gwinnett County was flooded on Monday, September 21. The United States Geological Survey, which monitors many of our streams within Gwinnett County, reported as much as 16 to 18 inches of rain falling from September 11 to September 22 in two areas of Gwinnett County.

 

The North Gwinnett Tag Office, 2735 Mall of Georgia Boulevard, Buford, will be closed Saturday, December 12 while the Georgia Department of Revenue conducts computer system maintenance. The maintenance period will take place from 7:00pm Friday, December 11 until 6:00am Monday, December 14. During this period, Internet and telephone tag renewals will not be available.

 

 

Gwinnett County Public Schools will spread the holiday spirit at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center throughout December. Come out and enjoy the sounds of the holidays during your lunch break. Performances will take place on the second floor of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, across from the Jury Assembly Room.

 
   
     
 
Feature Story

SPLOST: New trail access, playgrounds coming soon
There will soon be a new Ivy Creek Greenway access trail from Buford Drive/State Route 20 near the Mall of Georgia. The existing 2.7-mile long greenway trail starts at the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center and ends near Gravel Springs Road. The 12-foot wide asphalt multi-purpose trail will be 960 feet long, running roughly parallel to the I-85 southbound exit ramp.

JHC Corporation was the lowest of five bidders at $221,600. The construction will include a retaining wall, paving, landscaping, and guardrail. A small directional kiosk will be built where the trail intersects the existing sidewalk on Buford Drive.

Community Services Director Phil Hoskins said, “This new spur trail, funded by the 2005 SPLOST program, is part of a planned network of greenway trails throughout the county.” Work is expected to begin soon once the contract is signed.

The Board of Commissioners also approved new playgrounds for Bethesda Park and Rhodes Jordan Park. The playgrounds are located within the baseball complexes at both sites. The funding for these park improvements also comes from 2005 SPLOST revenues. Hasley Recreation and Design, Inc., received the $175,000 contract to remove and replace the two existing playgrounds.

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Look fabulous for the holidays and the new year. Check out these great new style and fashion guides:

The New Secrets of Style: Your Complete Guide to Dressing Your Best Every Day, by the editors of InStyle magazine

Steal this Style: Moms and Daughters Swap Wardrobe Secrets: Looks That Make Hip Classic and Classic Cool, by Sherrie Mathieson

Fierce Style: How to Be Your Most Fabulous Self, by Christian Siriano

The Style Strategy: A Less is More Approach to Staying Chic and Shopping Smart, by Nina Garcia

Harper’s Bazaar Fabulous at Every Age: Your Quick and Easy Guide to Fashion, by Nandini D’Souza

Style Clinic: How to Look Fabulous All the Time, at Any Age, and for Any Occasion, by Paula Reed

The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own, by Nina Garcia

The Lucky Guide to Mastering Any Style: How to Wear Iconic Looks and Make Them Your Own, by Kim France and Andrea Linett

Tim Gunn: A Guide to Quality, Taste, and Style, by Tim Gunn

Green is the New Black: How to Change the World With Style,
by Tamsin Blanchard

This list is provided by the Gwinnett County Public Library. Call or visit your local branch for additional selection assistance, or check out the GCPL website at www.gwinnettpl.org.


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County Feature

Police crime mapping system alerts citizens to criminal activity
On October 27 the Gwinnett County Police Department unveiled its new partnership with www.CrimeMapping.com, a web-based crime mapping system.

This interactive crime mapping website will enable citizens to map and view reported crime activity by neighborhoods or near specific addresses, which will empower citizens to take extra safety precautions when necessary and to be on the lookout for criminal activity occurring around their neighborhoods. Residents will be able to view the exact types of crimes that are occurring as well as where and when they are being committed. The service will also include a “Crime Alerts” utility that allows users to subscribe to e-mail alerts regarding incidents of crime near their home or business.

The crime mapping concept has been proven effective in reducing crime by raising the level of awareness within the community and facilitating the partnership between the police department and the citizens. The crime mapping solution represents a hybrid in mapping technology that utilizes both Google Maps and an advanced geographic engine. Crime data is extracted on a regular basis from the department’s records system so that the information being viewed through a web browser is up-to-date. These key components combine to provide the public accurate and timely data in the form of maps and reports.

By encouraging more self reliance within the community and further improving overall communications, crime mapping will serve to benefit Gwinnett County and its citizens. Give it a try at www.crimemapping.com.

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Photo of clean water.
Weather response plan produces positive results during flood
 

Following more than a week of record amounts of rainfall, much of Gwinnett County was flooded on Monday, September 21. The United States Geological Survey, which monitors many of our streams within Gwinnett County, reported as much as 16 to 18 inches of rain falling from September 11 to September 22 in two areas of Gwinnett County.

As a result, the Wet Weather Customer Response Plan for the Department of Water Resources’ Stormwater Division was enacted and staff was mobilized. All other work was placed on hold while staff processed as many service requests as possible.

The department received 1,514 service requests for drainage concerns in September and October alone. By comparison, the division received a total of 1,770 service requests in the first eight months of the year. DWR officials are pleased to say that crews were able to handle the workload, visit the sites, and process the paperwork in record time.

The flood resulted in 25 road closings associated with the failure of drainage culverts; however, all but three roads have been reopened: McDonough Drive, River Valley Drive, and Live Oak Road. These roads are expected to reopen in December, weather permitting.

Let us not forget those who were affected by the floods.This is a good lesson to remember to reach out to help our neighbors in times of need and is an opportunity to show what it means to be a citizen of Gwinnett County—a great place to live!

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Pet Corner

If you are looking for a companionable addition to your household, you will find lots of adorable cats, dogs, puppies, and kittens at the Gwinnett County Animal Welfare and Enforcement Center.

Visit gwinnettanimalcontrol.com
to see photos of all the critters currently up for adoption or drop by the shelter located at 884 Winder Highway in Lawrenceville or call 770.339.3200. In an attempt to prevent pet overpopulation, all cats and dogs are spayed or neutered before adoption.

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Tax Assessor's Office
Gwinnett County tag office holiday hours
Christmas Eve is Thursday, December 24, 2009.
Christmas Day is Friday, December 25, 2009.
New Year’s Day is Friday, January 1, 2010.

All Gwinnett County tag offices will be closed on these dates.

Tag office work schedules are different during holiday weeks and the day following a holiday is typically very busy.  Be sure to check the holiday schedule for changes.

Be first in line—every time; renew your vehicle online at www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com.

Tag office closed for computer system maintenance
The North Gwinnett Tag Office, 2735 Mall of Georgia Boulevard, Buford, will be closed Saturday, December 12 while the Georgia Department of Revenue conducts computer system maintenance.

The maintenance period will take place from 7:00pm Friday, December 11 until 6:00am Monday, December 14. During this period, Internet and telephone tag renewals will not be available. Contact the Tax Commissioner’s office at 770.822.8818, Tag@gwinnettcounty.com, or visit www.GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com for more information.

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Around Gwinnett Brief
 
GJAC closed for December and January holidays
All offices, with the exception of those operations required for the comfort and safety of the citizens of Gwinnett County, will be closed on the following dates:

Christmas Holidays: Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25
Normal work hours will resume Monday, December 28.

New Year’s Holiday: Friday, January 1
Normal work hours will resume Monday, January 4.

Please be reminded that GJAC is also closed on weekends and at 10:00pm most weekday evenings. 

Project AWARE
Help a local senior stay warm during the bitter cold winter months by participating in Project AWARE (Added Warmth Assistance for Residences of our Elderly). This is the second year Gwinnett County Senior Services (GCSS) is working to provide heat assistance to senior citizens.

Senior Services Manager Linda Bailey said, “Many seniors struggle to pay their increased heating bills along with their food and prescriptions during these times. Oftentimes, seniors will forego their medication or other basic needs to make ends meet.”

Please consider making a tax-deductible donation of a brand new portable electric heater for one of our local seniors. You can drop off your donation at any local Gwinnett County fire station from December 1, 2009, until February 12, 2010. Gwinnett Senior Services will collect the heaters from the stations and distribute them to seniors in need. A smoke detector and information on fire safety will also be provided  with the heaters.

Project AWARE is sponsored by Gwinnett County Senior Services. Our nonprofit partner is Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services. 

For more information on Project AWARE, please contact Melanie Miller (GCSS) at 770.822.8842 or e-mail Melanie.miller@gwinnettcounty.com. To make a monetary donation, you may visit the website www.fogcss.com or send a check to our nonprofit partner, Friends of Gwinnett County Senior Services, P.O. Box 3900025, Snellville, GA 30039.

Holiday performances by Gwinnett Public Schools
Gwinnett County Public Schools will spread the holiday spirit at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center throughout December. Come out and enjoy the sounds of the holidays during your lunch break. Performances will take place on the second floor of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center, across from the Jury Assembly Room.

December 7
1:00pm – 1:30pm
Craig Elementary
December 8
11:00am – 11:30am
Trip Elementary
December 8
12:45pm – 1:15pm
Dacula Elementary
December 9
11:00am – 11:30am
Lawrenceville Elementary
December 10
11:00am – 11:30am
Mulberry Elementary
December 11
11:00am – 11:30am
Norcross Elementary
December 11
11:40am – 12:10pm
Parkview High
December 11
12:20pm – 12:50pm
Gwin Oaks Elementary
December 15
11:00am – 11:30am
Jordan Adam and Rudie Vaughn Duet
December 16
11:00am – 11:30am
McKendree Elementary
December 16
12:20pm – 12:50 pm
Lovin Elementary
December 16
1:00pm – 1:30pm
Walnut Grove Elementary

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Parks and Recreation December events

“G” Scale Railroad on Display for Holidays
December 1 through December 31 

All aboard! Back by popular demand for the holidays, The Vines Garden Railroad Club, in partnership with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation, presents a two-track “G” scale display at George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center. Bring the family and kids to see this unique miniature railroad. The exhibit will be on display from December 1 through December 31; Mondays through Thursdays 9:00am to 8:00pm, Fridays 9:00am to 4:00pm, and Saturdays 10:00am to 6:00pm (closed December 24 and 25). George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center is located at 55 Buford Highway in Suwanee. Call 770.831.4173 for more information or visit www.gwinnettparks.com.

Grandma Got Run Over By…WHO? Kids’ Dinner Theatre
December 3 · 6:30pm – 8:30pm
December 4 · 7:00pm – 9:00pm

Join the cast of holiday characters as Rudolph goes to trial for running over Grandma. Did he do it, or was he framed by the evil Grinch? You, the jury, must decide! All ages; $15/person and includes dinner. Pre-registration required; call 770.822.5450 and use code GHCH14304 to register. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Holiday Luncheon
December 4 · noon – 2:00pm

It’s that time of year—the Annual Senior Recreation Club Holiday Luncheon! Ages 50 and up; $5/person. Please bring a covered dish: A – J salad, K – R vegetable, S – Z dessert. Contact club president or the Gwinnett Senior Center for more information. Code: GCSC16375. Gwinnett Senior Center at Bethesda Park, 225 Bethesda Church Road, Lawrenceville.

Holiday on the Square
December 4 · 5:00pm – 8:00pm

Get your ticket at the gazebo and get on board the Santa Trolley! Enjoy a ride around the festive historic square with the jolly ol’ elf himself. All ages; $2/person, pay at the gazebo. Toddlers must be on parent’s lap. Call 770.822.5450 for more information on all the Holiday on the Square events. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Kids’ Night Out
December 4 · 5:30pm – 9:00pm
       
Dig out your swimsuit and beach towel to splash the night away! Ages 6 – 10; $10/person; pre-registration required, call 770.614.2060 and use code BPCC143979 to register. Bogan Park Community Recreation Center, 2723 North Bogan Road, Buford.

Winter Wonderland Dance
December 4 · 7:00pm – 9:00pm   
    
Fathers, bring your daughters and share a special evening with your little girl amongst the magic and the wonder of the North Pole.  Enjoy dancing, games, a keepsake photo, and light dessert. Ages 3 and up; $10/person. Pre-register by calling 770.822.5414 and use code RJCC14314 to register. Rhodes Jordan Park Community Recreation Center, 100 East Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.
                                                                                                           
Civil War Holiday
December 5 · 10:00am – 4:00pm
     
Discover what Christmas was like during the Civil War era for soldiers and their families back home. Visit with Father Christmas, interact with Civil War re-enactors, tour the historically decorated farm, and make a special Christmas craft. All ages; $5/person (2 and under free). Pre-registration preferred; call 770.814.4920 and use code MDFP10306 to register. McDaniel Farm Park, 3251 McDaniel Road, Duluth.

Snowflake/Cupcake Fun
December 5 · 2:00pm – 4:00pm

We’ve decked the halls and want you to come jingle your bells! Games, cupcake decorating, crafts, and fun. All ages; $5/person (kids 3 and under free); Must pre-register by December 1; call 770.831.4173 and use code GPCC14210. George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center, 55 Buford Highway, Suwanee.

Meal and A Movie
December 6 · 1:00pm 
   
Bring your friends and enjoy a movie and lasagna, salad, and breadsticks. Ages 15 and up; $5/person. Pre-registration required; call 770.814.4914 and use code SHAB14305 to register. Shorty Howell Park Activity Building, 2750 Pleasant Hill Road, Duluth.

Snowflake Tea
December 6 ·  2:00pm – 3:30pm   
                    
Dress in your finest and come for a fun etiquette lesson with tea, manners, and Ms. Snowflake! Ages 5 through 12; $35/one adult and one child. Call 770.822.5178 and use code FSHM10309 to register. Lawrenceville Female Seminary, 455 South Perry Street, Lawrenceville.

Annual Christmas Tea
December 10 · 2:00pm

Free! Break out your festive holiday clothes and get in the holiday spirit with refreshments, tea, music, and more. Ages 50 and up. George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center, 55 Buford Highway, Suwanee.

Holiday on the Square
December 12 – 13 · 4:30pm – 8:00pm

Free! Festive holiday entertainment in the gazebo on Saturday night. Stroll the beautifully decorated historic courthouse and square both evenings. Kids, be sure to bring your list inside the courthouse for your visit with Santa. $5/photo. While you’re here, kids can even visit the Elf Workshop to make a fun holiday craft for only $1/child. Call 770.822.5450 for more information on all the Holiday on the Square events. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Dancing with the Sugar Plum Fairy
December 12 · 2:00pm – 4:00pm

Wear your pajamas for a Sugar Plum Fairy adventure! Come hear the story of the Nutcracker and learn the ballet dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Make a craft, have a snack, and more. Parents are invited to enjoy a short performance during the last 10 minutes of the event. Ages 4 – 7; $12/child. Pre-registration required; call 770.822.5414 and use code: RJCC14312 to register. Rhodes Jordan Community Recreation Center, 100 East Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Holiday on the Square
December 18 – 20 · 4:30pm – 8:00pm
             
Enjoy self-guided tours of the beautifully-decorated courthouse and historic downtown square, visit with Santa, and have your photo taken for $5 each. Kids can even visit the Elf Workshop and make a holiday craft for only $1/child. Saturday night only: free entertainment in the gazebo and the traditional hometown carriage rides are back for only $5/person (carriage will be fully seated). Call 770.822.5450 for more information on all the Holiday on the Square events. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Sugar Plum Fairy Pajama Party
December 19 · 2:00pm – 4:00pm
    
Wear your pajamas for a Sugar Plum Fairy adventure! Hear the story of the Nutcracker, learn the ballet dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, make a craft, have a snack, and more. There will be a short performance for the parents during the last 10 minutes of the event. Ages 4 to 7; $12/child. Pre-registration required; call 770.614.2060 and use code BPCC14327 to register. Bogan Park Community Recreation Center, 2723 North Bogan Road, Buford.

Holiday on the Square
December 21 – 22 · 10:00am – 2:00pm

Were your weekends too busy to visit Santa? Now that school’s out, gather your friends, and come down for a fun afternoon at the festive historic courthouse to visit with Santa. Photos are available for $5 each. Join the fun in the Elf Workshop and make a kid’s craft for only $1/child. Call 770.822.5450 for more information on all the Holiday on the Square events. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville.

Sign up for these and other great activities at www.gwinnettparks.com.


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county line
Gwinnett County
75 Langley Drive
Lawrenceville, GA 30046-6935
770.822.7135
www.gwinnettcounty.com

Link to Gwinnett County web site.

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The County Line is published monthly by the Gwinnett County Communications Division to inform residents about County services and items of interest. For more information or to submit newsletter suggestions, call 770.822.7135 or e-mail shaunieka.taste@gwinnettcounty.com. The County Line is also available on the County’s website, www.gwinnettcounty.com.