In honor of Chopper the Groundhog – the only groundhog mascot in professional sports – the Gwinnett Stripers are planning a full and festive day on Sunday, Feb. 2, that includes the launch of single-game ticket sales for the first half of the 2025 season.
Chopper will begin the morning of February 2 in the grand tradition of other famous prognosticating groundhogs: waking from his off-season slumber at Coolray Field and predicting the timing of spring’s arrival. His results will be broadcast on the Stripers’ official YouTube channel at 9 a.m..
Whether or not Chopper sees his shadow, all fans will be treated to special discounts.
If Chopper does not see his shadow (early spring), fans will receive:
- 22 percent off single-game tickets for Opening Day, presented by Georgia Power (Tuesday, April 1), Chopper Bobblehead Giveaway, presented by Coca-Cola (Saturday, April 19), and Margaritaville Night (Friday, May 30) using the promo code “SPRING” at checkout (offer valid February 2-7).
- 22% percent off all headwear at the Stripers Online Team Store using the promo code “SPRING” at checkout (offer valid February 2-7).
If Chopper sees his shadow (six more weeks of winter), fans will receive:
- 22 percent off single-game tickets for Soundcheck Saturday Kickoff (Saturday, April 5), Star Wars Night (Saturday, May 3), and Marvel Super Hero Night (Friday, June 13) using the promo code “WINTER” at checkout (offer valid February 2-7).
- 22 percent off select outerwear at the Stripers online Team Store using the promo code “WINTER” at checkout (offer valid February 2-7).
Following his prediction, Chopper will spread Groundhog Day cheer at gathering places across Gwinnett County, including:
- Noon: The Lawrenceville Lawn (210 Luckie Street, Lawrenceville);
- 1 p.m. – The Forum Peachtree Corners (5155 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners);
- 2 p.m. – Duluth Town Green (3167 Main Street, Duluth);
- 3 p.m. – Suwanee Town Center (330 Town Center Avenue, Suwanee); and
- 4 p.m. – The Bowl at Sugar Hill (5039 W. Broad Street).
The 16th season of Gwinnett Stripers Baseball at Coolray Field begins with Opening Day, presented by Georgia Power, on Tuesday, April 1 at 4:05 p.m. vs. the Nashville Sounds.
Schoolcraft is Gwinnett Tech GOAL winner
Gwinnett Technical College President Dr. Glen Cannon is shown with Thomas Schoolcraft. (Photo Credit: Jeremy Statum.)
Standing out among thousands of students is no small feat, but Gwinnett Technical College student Thomas Schoolcraft has achieved just that. A resident of Snellville, Schoolcraft has been named the winner of Gwinnett Technical College’s Georgia Occupational Award of Leadership (GOAL). The Electrical Engineering Technology student was selected from 90 nominees out of a student body of 11,000.
Before enrolling at Gwinnett Tech, Schoolcraft tried college but found it wasn’t the right fit. He spent his 20s working various jobs to make ends meet. After a decade of struggling, he realized he needed a change. Feeling that he had more to offer the world than serving tables and scrolling social media, he applied to Gwinnett Tech. He is an electrical engineering technology student.
He says: “Attending Gwinnett Tech is my second chance to prove myself. It’s my redemption arc. I’m seizing every opportunity and want to inspire others to do the same. We’re at a pivotal moment in history, and there’s no better time to strive to be our best selves. I’m thankful to Gwinnett Tech for this opportunity,” Schoolcraft added.
GMA names Duluth as 2025 Visionary City
From left are Larry Hanson; council member Manfred Graeder; Kathy Marelle, Parks and Recreation director; Margie Pozin, director of Community Development and Engineering; Chris McGahee, economic development and marketing director; Mayor Greg Whitlock; and Ben Young, publisher of Georgia Trend.
The City of Duluth is a recipient of the 2025 Visionary City Award, from the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) in collaboration with Georgia Trend Magazine. Presented at GMA’s Cities United Summit on January 26, this award recognizes the Rogers Bridge project, across the Chattahoochee River.
Rogers Bridge Park is a 24 acre park located in the northeastern quadrant of Duluth, a few blocks north of Peachtree Boulevard on Rogers Bridge Road. The Chattahoochee River flows along the northern boundary of the park. The park has created a connection across communities to Johns Creek, enhancing accessibility, sustainability, and the overall quality of life for residents of both cities.
Larry Hanson, CEO and executive director of GMA, says: “Duluth’s Rogers Bridge Project is a remarkable achievement in regional connectivity and environmental stewardship. This initiative not only bridges communities but also promotes active lifestyles and collaboration.”
Duluth Mayor Greg Whitlock says: “Being recognized with the 2025 Visionary City Award, affirms our dedication to sustainability, accessibility, and regional unity. We are proud to see Duluth leading the way in projects that enrich lives and create lasting impact.”
Follow Us