1/8: Musical healing; outlandish statements; fear

Gwinnett’s Infinite Energy Arena welcomes a new tenant when the Georgia Swarm, an indoor professional lacrosse team, plays its first home game on Saturday, January 9 at 7 p.m. The first 5,000 fans will receive a commemorative Georgia Swarm Rally Towel. Ticket sales have been good for the first game, and upwards to 8,000 tickets have already been sold. The Georgia Swarm, formerly the Minnesota Swarm of Minneapolis, lost their first game of the season last week to the Colorado Mammouth of Denver, 16-15 in their first-ever game as the Georgia Swarm.

TODAY’S FOCUS: Medical Students in Suwanee Also Practice Musical Healing

EEB PERSPECTIVE: Outlandish Statements Seem To Bring Results for Some Candidates

ANOTHER VIEW: Hot Topic for Women in the Coming Year Is Simply Fear

UPCOMING: City and County Agree on New Library for Downtown Duluth

NOTABLE: Lawrenceville Honors Two With Heritage Trail Medallions

RECOMMENDED RESTAURANT: Alfredo’s Italian Restaurant

GEORGIA TIDBIT: Pivotal Part of Confederate Plan Was Battling Blockade

TODAY’S QUOTE: What Type of Thoughts Bring Joy, Hope and Songs To Our Lips

MYSTERY PHOTO: Beautiful Photo Meant One Area Was Featured Twice

LAGNIAPPE: Lilburn’s New City Hall-Library Coming Out of the Ground

Georgia PCOM students also practice musical art of healing

By Barbara Myers

JAN. 8, 2016 | When considering the study of medicine, pharmacy and biomedical sciences, it’s easy to picture microscopes, anatomy charts, chemical formulas and all things mathematical or scientific. We imagine healthcare students hunched over physiology textbooks and not, for instance, painting works of art or singing opera.

With the help of students, visionary Linda Williams brought the Art of Healing to campus.

But even students whose future careers might be steeped in math and science often need to express themselves through creative outlets. As such, the Art of Healing envisioned by Biomedical Sciences Administrative Assistant Linda Williams has sprung up on the campus of Georgia Campus – Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (GA-PCOM) that provides a platform for students to participate in the arts and promotes a healthy balance during their time as students.

She says: “I had a vision of how to bring a community feeling to the campus through the arts … and how wonderful it would be for the students to have an opportunity to interact with faculty and administration on a different level. The arts are universal and speak to every nationality, age and gender all at the same time,” she believes. “They are the most connecting universal language.”

Williams, who has an extensive background in music, established the organization with the help of like-minded students. “The arts give me three things – psychological, physical and spiritual health,” she explained, and, through the help of student volunteers, she is passionate about providing students with these same life-giving facets, along with a time for camaraderie and expression.

Williams continues: “The vision is to create a place where the students can experience the art form that they enjoy during their breaks, lunch hours and even after school. They will then be able to get to know each other better despite their varying years and programs, which will bring even more of a sense of community and belonging to our student body and faculty.”

The Art of Healing consists of singers, musicians, artists and dancers. Some of the key students who helped Williams get the organization off the ground are Brigitte Meyers and Nima Yazdanpanah, both opera singers; pianist Daniel Kim; publicist Corey Slacks; administrator Hana Parks; dancer Aleksandra Ignatowicz; and artist Rebecca Nowacki. Yazdanpanah, who is versed in piano, musical theory, composition, playing traditional Persian drums, as well as being a trained and experienced vocalist, performed at GA-PCOM’s White Coat Ceremonies in October.

Along with Student Affairs, the organization helped design an “Art Therapy Day,” which allowed students to de-stress from the rigors of studying through arts and crafts. The Art of Healing also provided musical and dance entertainment for the College’s annual Holiday Luncheon. “The luncheon brought them all together. They’ve made new friends,” Williams says. “They’re asking me – what are we doing next?”

She explains that the long term vision for the organization is to take the talents of our students to the community in the hope of lifting spirits. Williams adds, “This is such an awesome opportunity to allow healthcare professionals to incorporate their artistic talents into the gift of healing.”

Candidates on both sides seem to prosper from outlandish statements

By Elliott Brack, editor and publisher

JAN. 8, 2016 | The national political scene leading up to the presidential election has been a wild one so far, primarily thanks to the whirlwind politics of Donald Trump. Though many do not think he will eventually be the Republican nominee, nevertheless Trump has dominated the media, blown most of the other GOP candidates nearly out of the water, and engineered an unusual candidacy.

On the Democratic side, Bernie Sanders has voiced several proposals which certainly are not conservative, though they have been well-received by his supporters. One last week, aimed at the big financial institutions, had Sanders maintaining he would vigilantly watch banks, even possible breaking up the big banks who are “too big to fail.” That was met with enthusiasm by many both in and outside the Sanders camp, though perhaps not by Wall Street.

Trump has identified sensitive issues which many people have agreed were key issues, and these where not the “usual suspects” of issues for standard politicians.

Meanwhile, the Democratic candidates have mostly been flying slightly under the radar while Trump has ballyhooed. For Hillary Clinton, Trump’s blasts have removed her from the spotlight, perhaps enhancing her candidacy.

For Bernie Sanders, he has acted more like Trump, but getting less press. He continues to have amazing staying power, raising small donations from lots of people. A recent report had him raising $33 million in one period, while in the same time frame, Mrs. Clinton raised $37 million. But most of the Hillary money came in big chunks, while Bernie easily out-distanced her in the number of donors. To think that Sanders can raise this amount of money in the face of what was supposed to be a cakewalk for Mrs. Clinton raises some doubt in the Democratic hierarchy.

If there is one thing that has rankled the Average Guy, it’s how big business, and especially big banks, seem to steamroll over people. Then throw in the Savings and Loan debacle, the way Wall Street tosses money at politicians to keep Congress in tow, the problems most Americans have with the large utilities, and the continual stories of mismanagement of some big money funds taking money out of pockets of the Average Joe, and you can see how Sanders has hit a raw nerve.

“Too big to fail,” which applied to the banks, is still stuck in people’s minds. And meanwhile the banks want to get even bigger by buying out their competitors. This deeply distresses people, and Bernie seems to understand this. He’s taking a page out of the Trump book. And people are responding.

Who can tell at this time how the campaigns will go here three weeks still before the Iowa caucuses? Afterward the start of the primaries, New Hampshire and South Carolina will be on the horizon. No doubt the winners will smile and indicate their way is the future!

Yet the significant element of the current campaigns seems to be how outlandish statements can give candidates more of a groundswell, no matter who the candidate or what the party. Soon we’ll be down to just a few presidential aspirants. That may mean we’ll be able to see a clearer picture of what 2016 will bring.

Hot topic for women in the coming year is simply fear

By Debra Houston

JAN. 8, 2016 | I entered the crowded waiting room for a routine exam in early December and found ladies in pink hospital gowns with their noses buried in magazines or otherwise staring into cellphones. Similarly attired, I sat down and asked, “Are they running behind?”

An avalanche of answers cascaded upon me. “I’ve been waiting two hours” was the most common refrain. I bit my lip, but surprisingly my question had broken the ice. Young and senior ladies, those of various complexions, and those with multicultural accents– strangers all — shared with one another their daily frustrations.

Perhaps the pink robes made us comfortable enough to share, like the pajama parties of our youths. Whatever reason, one topic stood tall and foreboding – terrorism. Once that ball started rolling, we soon came to a consensus – we were fearful. From the shooting at a church in Charleston to the one at an office party in San Bernardino, we agreed that nowhere is safe, not our shopping malls, schools, or even our homes. We didn’t assign blame to a political party, but remember, it’s 2016, and Americans often vote their fears.

Fast-forward two weeks. Sean Davis wrote in the online magazine The Federalist (December 18) that The New York Times had deleted a remark the president had made to a group of columnists. In the original December 17 edition, President Obama was quoted as saying he didn’t watch enough cable TV to appreciate American anxiety following the Paris and San Bernardino attacks. In the next day’s edition, the Times had scrubbed the remark.

No one expects presidents to know what ladies in pink gowns discuss in waiting rooms. And he’s not the first president to misgauge the pulse of America. But President Obama should know that the hot topic for women in 2016 is fear. We want our families safe. Republicans know this; they routinely remind Americans of the 2012 Benghazi attack that Mrs. Clinton blamed on a video. The Democratic response is always gun control, but the public understands that bad people will always have access to firearms, legal or not. Gun sales are through the roof now because good people feel the need to protect themselves and those they love.

As leader of his party, President Obama should understand that terror has quickened the American heartbeat. If not, voters may choose a Republican candidate who makes them feel safe by recognizing terrorism for what it is, over a Democrat who downplays their concerns and makes them feel like a target.

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County, city agree on new library in downtown Duluth

Gwinnett County commissioners have approved an agreement with the city of Duluth to locate a planned replacement branch library within the downtown area of Duluth.

At 22,000 square feet, the new facility will be twice the size of the existing Gwinnett County Public Library System branch at 3480 Duluth Park Lane.

Commissioner Jace Brooks says: “This agreement spells out the responsibilities of both parties as we begin the planning process. It’s a great example of local governments working together effectively, and I would especially like to thank the city and County staff members who were involved in developing the agreement.”

The city of Duluth will provide 1.851 acres of land and vehicular access from Buford Highway. The County agreed to acquire a little less than half an acre for the project as well as design and construct the replacement facility. The city will also be responsible for offsite stormwater detention plus building and maintaining streetscape improvements.

Duluth Mayor Nancy Harris says: “Having a library is exactly the type of amenity we want to add to downtown Duluth. With the addition of residential housing, having a library makes historic downtown Duluth even more desirable for all ages.”

Gwinnett Commission Chairman Charlotte Nash notes: “Once again, SPLOST dollars designated for libraries are improving our community and our quality of life for everyone who lives in Gwinnett County. I am grateful to voters for approving the sales tax program.”

Peachtree Corners plans workshop on multi-use trail through city

Peachtree Corners leaders are holding a multi-use trail workshop at City Hall on Thursday, January 21, from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at City Hall.

Representatives from the city and the architectural and design firm, Lord Aeck Sargent, will present conceptual drawings and discuss details about the project. The public is invited to attend.

The specific alignment of the trail network has not yet been finalized. However, initial exploration by the planning and design team suggests Phase One will connect Medlock Bridge Road with Peachtree Parkway through Technology Park, utilizing existing gas and sewer easements as partial routes. There will an emphasis on opening scenic natural areas. Ultimately, the trail will circle around the city, linking residential and retail areas and creating links to Technology Park and other office spaces.

• Here is a link that will take you directly to the plans: http://bit.ly/1OxoDhB.

Mayor Mike Mason says: “Adding a multi-use trail will link jobs to housing and build a healthier and more livable community. The city is fortunate to have so many natural areas including a river, streams and small lakes. A trail will make these areas more accessible to the public.”

In addition, the city is planning a pedestrian bridge that will link the new Town Center to The Forum shopping center, increasing pedestrian connectivity on both sides of Peachtree Parkway, a busy thoroughfare which counts roughly 44,000 cars each day.

Clean and Beautiful seeks volunteers for ‘Bring One for the Chipper”

On January 23, dozens of volunteers from all over Gwinnett County will gather together at Bethesda Park in Lawrenceville for the 30th installment of the largest Christmas “treecycling” event in the state: “Bring One for the Chipper.” Throughout the morning, volunteers will help chip live Christmas trees into mulch. This mulch will one day line the grounds of local playgrounds, beautify the beds around city halls, mark walking trails in area parks, and so much more.

On the event day, Gwinnett Clean and Beautiful recommends that volunteers wear work gloves, long pants, thick-soled, closed toes shoes and comfortable clothing and shoes that they won’t mind getting dirty. Volunteers for “Bring One for the Chipper” must be 14 or older to participate in this service project. In addition to individual volunteers, local businesses, civic groups, school clubs, neighborhood associations and church groups are also welcome. Every volunteer must read, sign and bring the Volunteer Release Form to the event.

• Volunteer Release Forms are available at www.gwinnettcb.org.

Towne Green improvement begins around city hall in Snellville

Construction began this week in Snellville at the intersection of U.S. Highway 78 and Oak Road as part of the Towne Green renovation project.

Drivers are asked to use caution near the project and to use an alternative route when possible. There will be construction barrels, signage and other indicators alerting drivers of the construction which will take place 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Lane closures are expected.

The construction is part of the Towne Green renovations in front of City Hall which will upgrade the space used for festivals and the Farmers’ Market. The Towne Green project is scheduled to be completed by May 1.

City of Lawrenceville honors two with Heritage Trail medallions

The City of Lawrenceville and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) have announced Daniel Ray Sosebee, Sr. and Mary Frazier Long as the 2016 recipients of the Heritage Trail Medallions.

The walking trail was constructed in 2013 to pay homage to individuals – throughout Gwinnett County history – who have made significant contributions to the City of Lawrenceville. The walkway commences at the Gwinnett Fallen Heroes Memorial, ends in front of Rhodes Jordan Park and is represented along the way by individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to the development or wellbeing of Lawrenceville and/or its residents.

Sosebee

Daniel Ray Sosebee, Sr. held several distinguished positions throughout Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County. In 1958, he established the Sosebee Auto Supply Company in Lawrenceville where he was later joined by his two sons, Dan and Jim. A member of the Gwinnett County Chamber of Commerce, in 1991 he was named Gwinnett County Small Business Person of the year and later that same year Georgia Small Business Person of the Year. Sosebee – who also served in the United States Navy – gave Lawrenceville, Gwinnett County and the United States many years of dedicated service.

Long

Likewise, Mary Frazier Long – a fourth generation resident of Gwinnett County, raised in Lawrenceville – is well known for her passion for the Lawrenceville community. Mary serves as a local historian for the City of Lawrenceville and has written books, numerous articles and narrated a riding tour of the City for several years. Mary is an active member of the Gwinnett Historical Society and commits her time to many other groups that contribute to Lawrenceville’s development. Medallion recipients are chosen annually and as the trail continues to grow, residents and tourists are able to explore the community and learn much more about its history.

Deadline is Jan. 29 for submitting Duluth LEAD applications

The City of Duluth is accepting applications for the eighth Annual LEAD. (Learn, Engage, Advance Duluth) Academy.

The program is set to begin on February 18, 2016 and will consist of six Thursday evening sessions held from 6 to 9 p.m. There will be one Monday evening session (February 22) when the class will join the City Council for the regularly scheduled Work Session at 5:30 p.m. Sessions will take place at City Hall.

• Deadline for applications is January 29, 2016. For more information and an application go to www.duluthga.net/lead.

Alfredo’s Italian Restaurant

I have been going to Alfredo’s Italian Restaurant at 1989 Cheshire Bridge Rd. NE since 1983. It is a special place and I feel welcome every time I walk in. If I convince anyone to go there by writing this recommendation, you must hurry because it is closing on the last day of February. If you have been there before, the owner, Perry Alvarez, already knows you. If you have never been there, tell Perry that Alex Ortolano sent you. Whether or not you tell him I sent you, you will enjoy a fine dining experience. Their web site: http://www.atlanta.net/partner/alfredo-s-italian-restaurant/000119m/

— Alex Ortolano, Duluth

An invitation: what books, restaurants, movies or web sites have you enjoyed recently? Send us your recent selection, along with a short paragraph (100 words) as to why you liked this, plus what you plan to visit or read next. –eeb

Confederates battling Union blockage of coastal ports was pivotal

The battle between ship and shore on the coast of Confederate Georgia was a pivotal part of the Union strategy to subdue the state during the Civil War (1861-65). U.S. president Abraham Lincoln’s call at the start of the war for a naval blockade of the entire Southern coastline took time to materialize, but by early 1862, under Union general Winfield Scott’s “Anaconda Plan,” the Union navy had positioned a serviceable fleet off the coast of the South’s most prominent Confederate ports. In Georgia, Union strategy centered on Savannah, the state’s most significant port city. Beyond Savannah, Union forces generally focused on securing bases of operation on outlying coastal islands to counter Confederate privateers.

Confederate defensive strategy, in turn, evolved with the Union blockade. After the fall of Port Royal, S.C., in November 1861, Confederate President Jefferson Davis appointed General Robert E. Lee to reorganize Confederate coastal defenses. Lee quickly realized the impossibility of defending the entire coastline and decided to consolidate limited Confederate forces and materiel at key strategic points. He countered Union naval superiority by ensuring easy reinforcement of Confederate coastal positions along railroad lines. In this way, Lee minimized reliance upon the fledgling Confederate navy and maximized the use of Confederate military forces in coastal areas, including both Georgia’s Sea Islands and mainland ports with railroad connections.

On the night of Nov. 11, 1861, a daring Confederate blockade-runner, Edward C. Anderson, escaped under Union eyes and piloted his ship, the Fingal, into the port of Savannah. A native of Savannah, Anderson was the first of many who attempted to assist the Confederate cause by breaking through the Union’s extensive coastal blockade, which stretched from Virginia to Florida. However, in Georgia none would match Anderson’s success. The landing of Enfield rifles and cannons, as well as sabers and military uniforms, at the state’s major port marked the high tide of the South’s ability to penetrate the North’s naval forces stationed along the Georgia shore.

But Anderson’s remarkable feat also signaled to the Union that it needed to bolster its blockade and close off access to Savannah, which, like Charleston, S.C., to the north, offered an access point readily able to provide Confederate armies with necessary war materiel. If the Union hoped to wear the South down by cutting it off from the outside world, then it had to put a stop to incidents like the Fingal‘s arrival at Savannah.

While smaller vessels than the Fingal sometimes evaded Northern capture, their modest hauls made for paltry victories. Because Union forces took control of the seas around Brunswick and St. Simons Island in the war’s beginning stages, the virtual closing of Savannah’s port to privateers like Anderson greatly contributed to eventual Union success in Georgia.

(To be continued)

• To access the Georgia Encyclopedia online, go to http://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org

So who’s this guy?

There’s not much to go on to identify this week’s Mystery Photo, since it’s merely the bust of some long-departed soul. Figure out who he is and that could tell you the location. Send your answers to elliott@brack.net and be sure to include the town where you live.

Several people recognized another view of Dubrovnik in Croatia, a photograph sent in by Ross Lenhart of Pawley’s Island, S.C. While the Forum ran an earlier photo of Dubrovnik in November, the view that Lenhart sent in was so beautiful, we ran another view of the area.

Howard Williams of Snellville said: “Today’s photo is of the walled city of Dubrovnik. It is a Croatian city on the Adriatic Sea in the region of Dalmatia. It is one of the most prominent tourist destinations in the Mediterranean Sea area.” Others recognizing it were Bob Foreman, Grayson; Jim Savadelis, Duluth; Lou Camerio, Lilburn; and Ruthie Lachman Paul of Norcross.

Progress in the making for new Lilburn City Hall and Library

You can see progress on what will eventually be the Lilburn City Hall and Gwinnett County Branch Library. The steel is about up, and work is progressing nicely, Lilburn City Manager Bill Johnsa says. The library will be to the left in this photo, with City Hall offices on the right. The building is anticipated to be completed October, 2016. Work is being done by Hogan Construction Company. The new building has a $11.2 million budget.

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