  The Cost of the Chase: A Night of Shattered Dreams on Scenic Highway SNELLVILLE, GA — In the quiet, bone-chilling hours of Sunday morning, just as Snellville prepared for a looming winter storm, a different kind of violence tore through the silence of Scenic Highway. It was a sequence of events that lasted only minutes but left a lifetime of grief in its wake: a high-speed pursuit, a horrific crash, and the death of a young woman who, according to her family, had spent her final moments begging for the car to stop. The Spark in the Dark: The incident began around 2:30 AM on January 18. Snellville police officers attempted a traffic stop on a Hyundai Elantra driven by 19-year-old Quintavias Martin, a resident of South Carolina. Rather than slowing down, Martin reportedly accelerated, initiating a high-speed chase that quickly spiraled out of control. Inside the car were three passengers. One of them was Naveah McGowan, a 19-year-old aspiring hair stylist. Her family later shared a heartbreaking detail: Naveah hadn't even wanted to go out that night. She had only agreed to join the group to keep a friend company. She didn't even know the driver. "Please Just Stop" As the Hyundai reached "insane" speeds—according to witnesses living near the route—the atmosphere inside the vehicle turned to terror. Naveah’s sister, Tajjone McElya, recounted harrowing details from the survivors. "Everybody in the car was asking, 'Please just stop the car,'" McElya said. The passengers were so desperate that they unbuckled their seatbelts, preparing to jump from the vehicle the moment it slowed down. But it never did. As the car neared Hickory Lane, it struck a concrete median. The impact sent the Elantra rotating counterclockwise across the roadway. It clipped a mailbox and slammed into a utility pole with enough force to snap the wood, before flipping multiple times and coming to rest on its roof. The Aftermath Local resident Susan Justice, who heard the car "flying" past her home, arrived at the scene to find a nightmare. The crash had knocked out power to the neighborhood and stopped only feet from a family’s front porch. While two other passengers were rushed to Northside Gwinnett Hospital with serious injuries, Naveah McGowan was pronounced dead at the scene. Quintavias Martin was arrested and faces a litany of serious charges, including:
A Legacy of "Light" In the days following the crash, Snellville has mourned a girl described as the "light of the room." Naveah was a hard worker, saving every penny for her first apartment and car. Her family now hopes her story serves as a poignant, if painful, warning to other young people. "Please, please watch who you get in the vehicle with," her sister pleaded. As Snellville moves forward, the community is left grappling with the "why" of the pursuit—a tragic reminder that in a matter of seconds, a single reckless decision can extinguish a rising light. www.yahoo.com/news/articles/snellville-high-speed-chase-ends-220223261.html  Ice and Isolation: Winter Storm Fern Paralyzes Gwinnett County Snellville, GA — As the calendar turned to the final full week of January 2026, the familiar hum of Gwinnett County was replaced by the eerie, crystalline silence of Winter Storm Fern. What began as a cautious forecast early in the week transformed into a full-scale regional emergency, encasing Snellville and its neighbors in a dangerous layer of ice that has brought daily life to a standstill. A State of Emergency: The gravity of the storm became clear on Thursday, January 22, when Governor Brian Kemp declared a statewide State of Emergency. By Friday, Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson followed suit, issuing a local emergency order as the National Weather Service upgraded the area to an Ice Storm Warning. "We are looking at a potentially historic icing event," local emergency officials warned. By Sunday morning, those predictions became a reality as freezing rain began to coat power lines, trees, and overpasses across the county. Life Under the Ice: The impact on infrastructure was immediate and severe. As of Sunday afternoon:
A Community in Hibernation: The storm has forced a total shutdown of public services through at least Monday, January 26.
The Long Thaw: While the precipitation is expected to taper off by Monday morning, meteorologists warn that the danger is far from over. Temperatures are projected to bottom out in the teens on Monday night, meaning any melted ice will refreeze into a treacherous "glaze." As Gwinnett crews work around the clock to clear debris and restore power, the message from local leaders remains the same: Stay home. In a week already marked by the tragedy of a high-speed pursuit on Scenic Highway, the city is desperate to avoid further loss of life on its frozen roads.  Beyond the Barbed Wire: The Unstoppable Rise of Janine Battista SNELLVILLE, GA — In a week defined by frozen roads and high-speed tragedies, a quieter, more hopeful story has been warming the hearts of Snellville residents. It is the story of Janine Battista, a local woman whose journey from a prison cell to the boardroom is being hailed as a masterclass in resilience and the power of a second chance. Earlier this month, as Georgia grappled with some of the highest incarceration rates in the country, Janine’s story emerged as a beacon of what is possible when the cycle of "lock and key" is replaced by "mentorship and mission." The Interruption: For Janine, the path to prison wasn’t a choice she ever imagined making. "Going to prison interrupted everything in my life," she reflected in a recent interview with CBS Atlanta. Like many who find themselves in the carceral system, Janine describes her former self as "lost"—a version of herself she no longer recognizes. But rather than letting the isolation of the Georgia prison system break her, Janine found an unlikely sanctuary in the written word. Through Common Good Atlanta, a nonprofit that brings higher education and humanities into Georgia prisons, she discovered a hidden talent for poetry. The blank pages of her notebook became the only place where the fences didn't exist. The Invisible Wall: When Janine was released in 2019, she quickly realized that serving her time was only half the battle. The "invisible wall" of reentry—the stigma attached to a criminal record—proved just as daunting as the physical one she had left behind. "It’s terrifying," Janine shared. "When you lay out your past, you have to ask, 'Do you feel comfortable trusting me?'" Despite her education and her talent, she faced a job market that often looked at her history before her humanity. From Poet to Powerhouse Janine refused to be defined by her lowest moment. Today, her life in Snellville looks vastly different:
A Lesson for Snellville Janine’s turnaround comes at a pivotal time for Gwinnett County. With the local success of the GRIP (Gwinnett Reentry Intervention Program) and the recent funding of homeless services for former inmates, the community is shifting its focus toward restoration rather than just retribution. "I can look back and say I did that—even in a really difficult, isolated situation," Janine said. "I found things I liked and discovered more of who I believe I am." Her story serves as a poignant reminder that while a mistake may interrupt a life, it does not have to end it. In the heart of Snellville, Janine Battista isn't just a "returning citizen"—she is a rising star. hourglassjournal.org/author/janine-solurush/ Weather Did You Know; A Fortress of Granite - Snellville's first jail  📚 Mid-Week Magic: Groundhog’s Day Storytime For parents who have been cooped up with restless toddlers for three days, the Barnes & Noble at The Shoppes at Webb Gin is offering a much-needed sanctuary this Wednesday.
The Poignancy: There is something deeply symbolic about a Groundhog’s Day theme right after a winter storm. As the "littlest readers" gather on the stage, the event marks a return to the simple, rhythmic routines of childhood that the storm so abruptly interrupted. It’s a 30-minute window of craft, color, and community for families who have spent the last 72 hours staring at gray skies and frozen windows. 🌶️ Bringing the Heat: The 5th Annual Westside Chili Cookoff If the Barnes & Noble event is the "soft opening" of the post-storm week, the Westside Baptist Church Chili Cookoff is the grand finale.
The Stakes: This isn't just about bragging rights. The church has put up serious prizes:
 A Beacon in the Cold: Inside Snellville’s Winter Warming Stations SNELLVILLE, GA — As Winter Storm Fern encased Gwinnett County in a dangerous glaze of ice this week, a different kind of energy was humming at the corner of Bethany Church Road. While the world outside grew silent and frozen, the Gwinnett Community Resource Center transformed into a vital lifeline for a community caught in the grip of the deep freeze. More Than Just Heat For many Snellville residents, the warming stations have been more than just a place to escape the wind. As power lines succumbed to the weight of the ice, leaving thousands in the dark, these centers became modern-day sanctuaries. Inside the Community Resource Center, the atmosphere is one of weary relief. Beyond the essential warmth, the county has provided:
The "Nash Building" Expansion: Because of the severity of Storm Fern, Gwinnett County took the rare step of expanding its usual warming station roster. In addition to the Snellville site, the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center (GJAC) in Lawrenceville opened the Nash Building’s jury assembly area. For those who couldn't safely drive, Ride Gwinnett and local microtransit services worked tirelessly—until road conditions became too hazardous—to ferry residents from icy neighborhoods to these safe havens. The Human Element: The most poignant part of the warming stations isn't the infrastructure; it’s the people. From the staff earning $18 an hour to monitor the sites overnight to the neighbors sharing stories over paper plates of food, the stations have bridged the gap of isolation that winter storms often create. "It’s not just about the thermometer," one volunteer noted. "It’s about knowing you aren't sitting in the dark alone." How to Access Help As of Sunday evening, the warming stations are scheduled to remain open until Tuesday, January 27, at 9:30 AM, though officials are monitoring the forecast for a "refreeze" that might extend those hours.
Fun Fact, The Olympic Queen of the Pool
0 Comments
 Snellville Safety Update: Gwinnett’s 911 System Goes "Next-Gen" Snellville residents can expect a faster, more tech-savvy response during emergencies following the Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners' recent approval of the 2026 fiscal budget. A cornerstone of this year’s public safety plan is a $2.5 million investment to overhaul the county’s aging 911 infrastructure. The move to a "Next-Generation 911" (NG911) system marks a significant shift from the traditional copper-wire landline technology to a modern, internet-protocol-based system. What’s Changing for You? The upgrade is designed to address modern communication habits, where the vast majority of emergency calls now come from mobile devices. Key features include:
Why Now? According to Gwinnett County officials, including Board Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, the upgrade is about being "good stewards" of taxpayer dollars while meeting national standards. In 2025, Gwinnett finally met the national standard of answering 95% of calls within 20 seconds, and this $2.5 million investment is intended to ensure those speeds stay consistent as the population grows. "Next-gen 911 absolutely means faster connection, being able to use technology to text to the police department and get a response." — Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson Timeline: While the budget was officially adopted in early January 2026, the technical rollouts will occur throughout the year. The county expects the core improvements to the call center's efficiency and AI transcription tools to be fully operational by the end of 2026.  The "Redshirt" Era Ends: Is Snellville Ready for the Age-Grade Shakeup? For decades, many Snellville parents followed a familiar playbook: if your child had a late-summer birthday or just seemed "small" for their age, you’d hold them back a year to give them a competitive edge. This practice, known as "kindergarten redshirting," has been a staple of suburban parenting. But this week, the game changed... Gwinnett County Public Schools (GCPS) officially announced that starting in Fall 2026, the district will strictly enforce age-based placement. The result? The "hold-back" option is effectively being benched. The New Rule of Play: Under the updated policy, any child who turns 6 years old on or before September 1 will be automatically placed into first grade. In the past, parents could choose to enroll a 6-year-old in kindergarten if they felt the child wasn't socially or academically "ready." Starting next year, that choice disappears. GCPS officials state the move is about "standardizing enrollment" and ensuring consistency across the massive, fast-growing district. Why the Sideline Drama? The reaction in Snellville coffee shops and Facebook groups has been electric. The debate essentially splits into two camps:
The Political Pivot: The story doesn't end at the school board office. State Representative Scott Hilton (R-Peachtree Corners) has already stepped into the fray, signaling that he plans to introduce legislation to restore "parental discretion." If passed, this could set up a high-stakes standoff between state lawmakers and the Gwinnett school board. "We’ve got to design an education system that works for everybody... right now, for many families, this policy feels broken." — Rep. Scott Hilton What This Means for You: If you have a child currently in Pre-K or a toddler approaching school age, the "wait and see" approach is no longer an option.
Gwinnett Schools ending Kindergarten Redshirting This video provides local news coverage and interviews with parents and lawmakers regarding the specific policy shift in Gwinnett County. www.youtube.com/watch?v=kLD0d0QMLb0   The "Snellville Spark": Why Caribou Coffee & Key’s Cakery are the New Local Icons Forget the standard morning rush. In Snellville, the "Bakery & Brew" scene has evolved into a full-blown destination. While the city has always had its share of drive-thrus, the recent opening of Caribou Coffee and the anticipated expansion of Key’s Cakery are turning the Scenic Highway corridor into the city’s newest social hub. Here is why these two spots are more than just a place to grab a snack—they are the pulse of Snellville’s morning culture in 2026. 1. The "Cabin" Vibe Comes to Scenic Highway The newly opened Caribou Coffee at 1947 Scenic Highway N isn't your typical glass-and-steel cafe. Built with a "Minnesota-cabin" aesthetic, this location has quickly become a local favorite for its "Crafted Press"—a cold-brewed coffee steamed with a hint of cream and real sugar.
2. From Trailer to Brick-and-Mortar: Key’s Cakery If Caribou is the "Brew," then Key’s Cakery is the undisputed "Bakery" star of the 2026 season. After years of serving the community from a mobile trailer, owner Kierra Mays is officially moving into her permanent home at Towne Center Market (2245 Wisteria Drive).
Why It Matters for Snellville These businesses represent a shift in our city’s economy. By moving away from "big box" generic designs and toward high-quality, community-focused storefronts, Snellville is creating a unique identity. Whether it’s the $1 donation per transaction Caribou made to the Junior Achievement Discovery Center of Gwinnett during its opening or Key’s Cakery’s transition from a local side-hustle to a main-street staple, these are businesses with a "Snellville soul." Visitor’s Cheat Sheet Feature Caribou Coffee Key’s Cakery Specialty: Caramel High Rise & Nitro Cold Press Custom Cakes & "Cake-sicles" Best Time: 7:30 AM (Morning Rush)2:00 PM (Afternoon Treat) Setting: Cozy Cabin / Outdoor Patio Urban Chic / Food Hall Weather Did You Know; A "Small Town" with Big Stars Despite its quiet reputation, Snellville has been home to some major talent!  Mission Possible: Honoring the Dream in Lawrenceville: Tomorrow, Monday, January 19, 2026, the streets of Lawrenceville will transform into a vibrant display of unity and remembrance as the United Ebony Society of Gwinnett County hosts its annual MLK Day Parade and Community Celebration. For many Snellville residents, this event has become a "must-attend" tradition to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and engage with neighbors from across the county. The Details: "Mission Possible II" The theme for this year’s celebration is "Mission Possible II: Building Community, Uniting a Nation the Nonviolent Way." Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson will serve as the Grand Marshal, leading a procession that includes marching bands, community groups, and local leaders. Schedule of Events:
The Route & Parking If you’re planning to head over from Snellville, here is the path the parade will take: GJAC - Constitution Blvd - Perry Street - Nash Street- Gwinnett Drive - Central Gwinnett High School Parking Tips: Official parking is available at the GJAC Parking Deck, One Justice Square, and Central Gwinnett HS. Because of the large crowds expected, organizers recommend arriving at least 30–45 minutes early to secure a spot along the Perry Street or Nash Street sidewalks for the best views. Pro-Tips for Attendees
Why We March Beyond the music and the spectacle, this parade serves as a living reminder of Dr. King’s vision for a "Beloved Community." As United Ebony Society President Zachary Pratt recently noted, the event is about keeping the message active and visible—choosing community over isolation. Fun Fact: The "Snell" in Snellville: Gladstone Snell  Echoes on Saddle Ridge: A Community in Reflection SNELLVILLE, GA — The quiet, tree-lined stretch of Saddle Ridge Drive is known for the steady rhythm of suburban life: the sound of morning commuters, the laughter of children playing, and the familiar wave of neighbors. However, that rhythm was shattered in the early hours of Sunday morning, January 11, leaving a community searching for answers in the wake of a tragic fatal shooting. The Events of Sunday Morning At approximately 3:30 AM, Gwinnett County Police responded to reports of gunfire in the residential block. Upon arrival, officers discovered a scene that stood in stark contrast to the neighborhood’s peaceful reputation. One individual was found deceased from gunshot wounds. While detectives worked through the frigid pre-dawn hours under the glow of forensic lights, the initial assessment provided a small measure of relief to a frightened public: investigators believe this was an isolated incident. While the search for a suspect remains active, authorities do not believe there is an ongoing, random threat to the residents of Saddle Ridge. A Neighborhood Interrupted For those who live nearby, the tragedy is more than a police report; it is a disruption of the "Snellville Spirit." On Sunday afternoon, the yellow crime scene tape—now removed—left behind an invisible weight. Neighbors stood on porches, speaking in hushed tones, reflecting on how quickly the sanctity of "home" can be pierced. "You don't expect to wake up to sirens on a street like this," said one long-time resident. "We move to places like Snellville precisely because they are quiet. Today, that quiet feels different. It feels heavy." The Path Forward The Gwinnett County Police Department’s Homicide Unit is currently canvassing the area for doorbell camera footage and witness accounts. They are urging anyone who may have seen an unfamiliar vehicle or heard something unusual between 3:00 AM and 4:00 AM to come forward. As the investigation continues, the focus in Snellville shifts toward healing. In the coming days, the community will likely do what it does best: look out for one another. The tragedy on Saddle Ridge Drive serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of peace, but also of the strength found when neighbors lean on each other in the aftermath of the unthinkable. Information Needed: If you have any information regarding the incident on Saddle Ridge Drive, please contact the Gwinnett County Police Department at 770-513-5300 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 404-577-TIPS (8477).  Shattered Glass and Unshaken Spirits: The Centerville Rosebud Break-ins SNELLVILLE, GA — For the small business owners along Centerville Rosebud Road, the start of 2026 was supposed to be a season of fresh momentum and local commerce. Instead, several entrepreneurs were met with the jarring sight of shattered storefronts and ransacked registers. A string of "smash-and-grab" burglaries has left a trail of property damage across a popular local shopping center, but in the face of violation, the Snellville business community is proving that its resolve is harder to break than glass. The Midnight Intrusion The targeted attacks occurred under the cover of darkness, with surveillance footage capturing masked individuals systematically breaching the entrances of multiple establishments, including the beloved Italian Pie and a neighboring Subway. The precision and speed of the break-ins suggest a calculated effort to strike while the city slept. For the owners, the loss isn't just measured in the stolen cash or the cost of a new front door. It is measured in the hours of lost sleep, the sudden feeling of vulnerability, and the disruption of a livelihood built on years of hard work. Resilience in the Rubble While the physical damage was significant, the narrative of the week has quickly shifted from one of victimhood to one of remarkable resilience. At Italian Pie, the damage to the point-of-sale system didn't stop the ovens from firing up. In a moment of improvisational grit that has since gone viral among locals, the staff reportedly used a simple pizza box as a makeshift cash register to continue serving customers. "They can take the money, but they can’t take the kitchen," one regular patron remarked while waiting for an order. "Seeing them open the very next day tells you everything you need to know about the people who run this town." A Community Under Watch The Snellville Police Department and Gwinnett County authorities have increased patrols in the commercial corridors surrounding the Highway 124 and Centerville Rosebud intersection. Investigators are currently analyzing high-definition surveillance video in hopes of identifying the suspects and the getaway vehicle used in the spree. Business owners are being encouraged to review their internal security protocols, but the most effective alarm system may be the community itself. Residents have flocked to the affected shops this week, turning their morning coffee runs and dinner plans into a grassroots "buy local" movement to help the owners recoup their losses. Standing Together The glass has been swept away, and the boards over the windows are being replaced with new panes. While the investigation remains active, the message from Centerville Rosebud Road is clear: Snellville’s local economy is built on more than just brick and mortar—it is built on a foundation of neighbors who show up when things get tough. Can You Help? If you recognize the individuals in the released surveillance footage or noticed suspicious activity near the shopping center during the first week of January, please contact Snellville Police at 770-985-3555.  A Sanctuary of Steam and Sips: The Magic of Cuckoo’s Cafe SNELLVILLE, GA — In the bustling corridor of Scenic Highway, where the rush of Gwinnett traffic often dictates the pace of the day, there is a door that leads to a different tempo. Cuckoo’s Cafe, a whimsical haven for tea lovers and snack enthusiasts alike, has become more than just a storefront; it is a quiet anchor for the Snellville community. A Whimsical Escape To step inside Cuckoo’s is to leave the pavement of 2026 behind. The air is often filled with the sweet, toasted aroma of brown sugar and the rhythmic sound of shakers blending the cafe’s signature milk teas. The decor—a playful blend of modern chic and "cuckoo" charm—features cozy private booths draped with sheer curtains and an array of plushies that lend a sense of childhood wonder to the space. For the students of Gwinnett who flock here after school, or the remote workers seeking a corner of calm, the cafe offers a rare commodity: a space that feels both social and deeply personal. The Art of the Taiwanese Snack While the atmosphere draws you in, it is the menu that ensures you linger. Cuckoo’s has mastered the art of Taiwanese comfort food. Their Taiwanese Chicken Nuggets—hand-breaded and served in a signature whimsical basket—have earned a cult following for their perfect balance of crunch and spice. The drink menu is equally poetic, ranging from the deep, velvety richness of their Brown Sugar Milk Tea to the vibrant, citrus-kissed Mango Tango. Each drink is a customizable experience, allowing patrons to dial in their sweetness levels to match their mood. More Than a Cafe In a week where Snellville has faced news of break-ins and investigations, places like Cuckoo’s Cafe stand as vital reminders of why we value our local "third spaces." It is a place where a business owner’s passion for service meets a neighbor’s need for a moment of peace. Whether you are coming in for a quick Takoyaki fix or settling into a booth for a long study session, Cuckoo’s remains a vibrant thread in the fabric of Snellville—a reminder that even in a fast-moving world, there is always time to slow down for a sip of something sweet. Visit Cuckoo’s Cafe
Weather The Silent Stewardship: Reimagining Our Streets SNELLVILLE, GA — There are parts of our daily lives so consistent that they become nearly invisible. We set our bins by the curb in the quiet hours of the morning, and by the time we return from work, the remnants of our week have vanished. This seamless cycle is the result of a complex choreography of labor and logistics—one that the City of Snellville is currently preparing to move into a new era. This week, the City officially released a Request for Sealed Bids (PW260206) for the operation of commercial and residential solid waste and recycling services. While a "service bid" may sound like mere bureaucracy, it represents a poignant moment of transition for our community’s infrastructure and the environment we share. A Standard for the FutureThe new solicitation isn't just a renewal of the status quo; it’s a blueprint for a more efficient Snellville. City staff have recommended several shifts designed to modernize our streets, including:
The city is searching for a partner that balances fiscal responsibility with a commitment to the "Snellville Spirit." How do we ensure these vital services remain affordable for those on fixed incomes while maintaining the high standards of cleanliness we expect? It is a question that the Mayor and Council will weigh heavily as they evaluate the proposals arriving in February. Why It MattersOur sanitation workers are the silent stewards of our health and our curb appeal. They are the first to see the city wake up and the last to leave our neighborhoods. As the city enters this bidding process, we aren't just looking for a truck and a crew; we are looking for a long-term partner invested in the future of our soil, our streets, and our shared home. The mandatory pre-bid conference is set for January 15, marking the beginning of a selection process that will define our city's daily rhythm for the next three years. Key Dates for Residents:
Did you know; The "Promised Land" Plantation Just outside the city limits lies a historic 1,000-acre site known as The Promised Land. It was named in the 1820s by Thomas Maguire because the soil was so incredibly rich.  Winter Well Spent: The European Elegance of Chateau Elan BRASELTON, GA — As the January frost settles over the rolling hills of North Georgia, a short 30-minute drive from Snellville transports you to a place where the architecture of the French Loire Valley meets the warm hospitality of the South. Chateau Elan Winery & Resort is currently in the heart of its "Winter Well Spent" season, offering a sanctuary of refined relaxation for those looking to escape the post-holiday lull. The Art of the Slow Reset In 2026, Chateau Elan has doubled down on the concept of the "intentional winter." The resort has moved away from the frantic pace of the holidays, replacing it with a curated sequence of restorative moments. For many, the journey begins at the Versailles Restaurant, where the glass-topped atrium allows the pale winter sun to flood the room while you enjoy a traditional Afternoon Tea. It is a quiet, elegant ritual—scones, clotted cream, and finger sandwiches—that serves as the perfect antidote to a busy work week. Vines and Vintages: The vineyards may be dormant, but the winery is more alive than ever. This week, the estate is hosting its signature Chateau Wine Tastings, where guests can sample seven pours from the winery’s full portfolio, including the bold reds of the Fingerprint Collection. For a more immersive experience, the new Wine Bungalows offer a private, heated vantage point overlooking the sleeping vines. It’s a poignant way to appreciate the lifecycle of the grape: even in the stillness of winter, the groundwork for the next harvest is being laid. Sanctuary for the Senses: If the mountain air is too brisk, the Spa at Chateau Elan provides a 33,000-square-foot refuge. The "RESET" package has become a winter favorite, combining a grounding morning fitness class with a rejuvenating facial and full access to the steam rooms and indoor saltwater pool. As dusk falls, the resort’s fire pits flicker to life. The Fireside S’mores experience has become a nightly tradition, where guests gather to roast marshmallows and share stories under the starlight—a simple, nostalgic joy that feels especially meaningful in the quiet of January. Your Winter Itinerary
chateauelan.com/?utm_medium=organic&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=business_listing  The Pulse of the Community: A Visit to Revamp 54 SNELLVILLE, GA — In the heart of the Centerville corridor, where the rhythm of Highway 124 meets the daily commute of Gwinnett residents, sits a place that understands the profound connection between how we look and how we feel. Revamp 54 Beauty and Barber Shop has quietly become a cornerstone of the Snellville community, proving that a local shop can be much more than just a place for a trim—it can be a sanctuary for transformation. More Than a Haircut: Walking into Revamp 54 at 3400 Centerville Highway, you aren’t just entering a business; you’re entering a "third space." In sociology, the third space is that vital anchor between home and work where community happens. At Revamp 54, the air is filled with the low hum of clippers, the scent of premium hair oils, and the spirited debate that has defined barbershop culture for generations. The shop’s philosophy is rooted in the idea of the "revamp"—not just a change in style, but a renewal of confidence. Whether it’s a sharp fade, intricate loc maintenance, or a meticulous hot towel shave, the barbers and stylists here treat their craft as a form of community service. Healthy Hair, Healthy Spirit: One of the standout features of Revamp 54 is its commitment to hair health. The shop has gained a loyal following for its "Healthy Hair" focus, utilizing high-quality brands and even their own specialized product lines, like Elate, designed for scalp health. "In the winter, the Georgia air gets dry, and it’s hard on the hair," says one regular patron. "Coming here isn't just about the look; it's about the care. They educate you on what your hair actually needs." A Beacon of Local Resilience: Following the recent news of break-ins in the surrounding shopping centers, businesses like Revamp 54 represent the steady heartbeat of Snellville. While headlines might focus on the "smash-and-grab" incidents, the real story is found in the shops that open their doors every morning at 9:00 AM, ready to serve their neighbors. Revamp 54 stands as a testament to the resilience of Snellville’s entrepreneurs. It’s a place where a young man might get his first haircut before the school year starts, or where a professional stops in for a "fresh start" before a big interview. In every chair, a different story is being told, and every "revamp" sends a more confident version of a Snellville citizen back out into the world. Experience the Revamp
Fun Facts: That Snellville was once home to a massive, world-class granite quarry that helped build some of the most famous structures in the South?  Tragedy Strikes Gwinnett: Teen Arrested in Fatal New Year's Day Carjacking of Uber Driver Gwinnett County was rocked by a tragic act of violence on New Year's Day, as a 15-year-old suspect was arrested and charged with the murder of an Uber driver in Lawrenceville. The incident, which unfolded as an attempted carjacking, has sent shockwaves through the local community, highlighting the devastating consequences of youth violence. The victim, an unnamed Uber driver, was tragically killed during the violent encounter. Authorities quickly launched an investigation, leading to the apprehension of the teenage suspect on January 2, 2026. He now faces serious charges including murder and carjacking. This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of community safety and addressing the root causes of crime. As the investigation continues, the community mourns the loss of life and grapples with the impact of such a senseless act.  SNELLVILLE LOCAL UPDATE: Weekly Briefing: Community News & Public Safety Arson Investigation: Two Arrested in Mavis Tires & Brakes Blaze Authorities have confirmed that the fire that ravaged a local auto business earlier this week was no accident. Gwinnett County Fire Investigators have officially ruled the blaze at Mavis Tires & Brakes as incendiary, leading to the arrest of two adult male suspects. The Incident Details: On Tuesday afternoon, December 30, 2025, fire crews were dispatched to the business located at 3887 Centerville Rosebud Road SW after 911 callers reported heavy smoke and flames. Upon arrival, firefighters found a detached garage behind the main building fully engulfed. The situation was critical:
 SNELLVILLE LOCAL UPDATE Weekly Briefing: Community Spotlight & Local Flavor A Sweet Escape: Candy World Drinks N’ Treats Brings a Sugar Rush to Snellville If you’ve been looking for a way to satisfy your sweet tooth and support a local business, look no further than Candy World Drinks N’ Treats. Originally a popular mobile candy truck that lit up the streets with its custom LED trailer, this Black-owned, woman-owned business has established a vibrant storefront right here in Snellville at 3300 Centerville Highway. What’s the Buzz? Stepping into Candy World feels like entering a modern-day fairytale. The shop is famous for its whimsical, candy-infused creations that are as visual as they are delicious. Whether you are a "slushie fanatic" or a "chocoholic," the menu is designed to let you build your own ultimate treat. The Fan Favorites:
More Than Just a Shop: The shop has quickly become a community staple, known for its high-energy customer service (often praised by locals for being "top-tier") and its family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a popular destination for birthday treats, weekend family outings, or just a nostalgic trip back to childhood. Planning Your Visit: The storefront is located in the Twin Village neighborhood and is open Wednesday through Sunday.
Snellville Sweet StatsTreat Pricing/Options Candy Slushies Custom builds with 16+ flavors Candy Apples Starts at $8.00 (Single) to $23.00 (3ct) Pecan Pralines Sold in packs of 2 or larger dozens Specialty Items Mega Krispies, Hot Cocoa Bombs, & Chocolate Pretzel Rods www.yelp.com/biz/candy-world-drinks-n-treats-snellville-2 Weather Did you know; A "Promised Land" Right in Town Snellville is home to a historic site known as The Promised Land. Originally a massive plantation owned by Thomas Maguire (whose journals provided detailed accounts of life during the Civil War), the property was eventually purchased in the 1920s by the Livsey family, a prominent African-American family in the community. Today, the city is working to preserve the site as a historical and cultural landmark.  SNELLVILLE LOCAL UPDATE Weekly Briefing: Moments of Mindfulness 2,300 Miles of Compassion: The "Walk for Peace" Reaches Snellville In a week often filled with heavy headlines, a quiet but powerful movement passed through our city. A group of Buddhist monks, accompanied by their rescue dog Aloka (meaning "Light"), made a historic stop at Wat Lao Buddha Khanti temple in Snellville as part of their 120-day, cross-country Walk for Peace. The journey, which began in Fort Worth, Texas, on October 26, spans 2,300 miles and is intended to promote "loving-kindness, compassion, and national healing." A Hero’s Homecoming The stop in Snellville was particularly emotional as it served as a homecoming for Phra Ajarn Maha Dam Phommasan, a senior monk at the local temple.
The Snellville Send-Off On New Year’s Day, hundreds of residents gathered at the Zoar Church Road temple for a morning ceremony. The atmosphere was one of profound unity as locals offered prayers and food (the monks survive solely on donations provided along the way). At 2:00 PM on January 1, the group officially departed Snellville, heading northeast through Walton County and toward their final destination: the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., where they are scheduled to arrive in mid-February. SNELLVILLE LOCAL UPDATE Weekly Briefing: Arts, Crafts & Community Events Gemstones, Glass, and Glamour: The Intergalactic Bead Show Returns Calling all crafters, jewelry makers, and lovers of all things sparkling! This upcoming weekend, the Gwinnett County Fairgrounds will transform into a treasure hunter’s paradise as the Intergalactic Bead & Jewelry Show lands in our backyard. Whether you're a professional jeweler looking for wholesale supplies or a hobbyist searching for that one-of-a-kind pendant, this event is widely considered the premier "bead destination" in the Southeast. What to Expect: The show is a juried event, meaning every vendor is hand-selected for quality and professionalism. You’ll find a massive selection of:
Event Details:
Pro Tip for Shoppers: This show is both wholesale and retail. If you are a licensed business owner purchasing for your shop, be sure to bring a copy of your sales tax license to access wholesale pricing and sections. For everyone else, it’s a retail dream where you can touch and see the quality of the stones before you buy—something you just can't do online! Fun Facts: The Legend of "Sam Ketchem": Snellville’s Motorcycle Marshal If you think modern traffic enforcement is tough, you should have seen Snellville in the 1940s and 50s. Long before the city had a fleet of patrol SUVs, the law was upheld by a man, a motorcycle, and a nickname that struck fear into the hearts of heavy-footed drivers across the Southeast. |
GOT A BUSINESS?
50% off for 1st time advertisers! ↓ GOT A NEWS EVENT? ↓ News Editor:
|
RSS Feed
|
|
 
|