Environmental Center serves as sought-after space
Environmental Center serves as sought-after space
By WILL NELSON
Special to GwinnettForum.com
BUFORD, June 15, 2010 – The present economic situation has many of us reaching out, often in ways we never thought of before. Necessity is the mother of invention. Those of us who live in Gwinnett County are fortunate that the county is taking certain progressive steps to insure its fiscal viability while adding to the overall quality of life as well as opportunities for its citizens.
One example is the recent program initiated by the county to help first time home buyers with a down payment. The guidelines are much stricter than in the halcyon days of old (prior to 2008), when anyone who was “breathing” could get a loan for a home.
Another emerging asset is the four year long development and evolution of the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center. The center is a shining example of what can happen when groups unite on a purpose, and come together with understanding, a strong vision, and a workable methodology. The Environmental Center is much more than a place for field trips for kids. It is an opportunity for the citizens of Gwinnett to learn about the county’s history, effective ways to improve the environment and it also serves as a wonderful meeting place for various community groups.
The success of the center lies in the idea of it not simply drawing off the government trough. It has affiliation with Gwinnett Parks and Recreation, the University of Georgia at Athens, and a private foundation. This ensures maximum exposure of the facility, as well as multiple streams of revenue support. While the facility is open to all citizens and is essentially designed to be taxpayer supported (and well it should, as it greatly enhances the county’s way of life), it is also generating income in the old-time capitalistic way… because it’s being run as a business, not a bureaucracy.
I had occasion to meet with Jason West, who is director of development, as part of the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage foundation that supports the center. He was very enthusiastic about the ability of various government agencies and private enterprises coming together in an effective way with proper oversight, a careful eye towards not having duplication of services, and a willingness to engage the local community on events and exhibits of interest to local citizens.
The center is becoming a sought-after meeting place for businesses, community groups, and the occasional wedding, held in the beautiful Cisco Theatre. There are also the hundreds of acres of land it manages and shares with the Wayne Hill Waste Treatment Plant, as well as a wonderful labyrinth of walking paths and bike trails, making it the ideal place for people to meet, socialize, be outdoors, and get some much needed exercise.
Because many work indoors, this is a great place to go to be outdoors, socialize with family and friends, walk or ride about in a splendid setting, and ultimately feel better about yourself and the county you live in.
As everybody tightens their belts, local government included, the Gwinnett Environmental Center stands as a bastion of cooperative and sustainable management of a facility of which we all can be proud.
LINK to article on Gwinnett Forum Website
Press Release: National Trust for Historic Preservation
Press Release: National Trust for Historic Preservation
Buford, Georgia (May 20, 2010)—The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation was awarded a $10,000.00 grant by the National Trust for Historic Preservation from its Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors. The seed grant funds will be used to assist in preserving the rare, historic folk art paintings found in the Chesser-Williams House.
"These funds provide the foundation for important preservation work nationwide”, said David Brown, executive vice-president of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. “The grants go toward protecting the places that tell America’s story and they often trigger other preservation projects, further strengthening efforts to protect our country’s heritage and make our communities more livable."
The Chesser-Williams House is one of the oldest, surviving homes in Gwinnett County. The home was built in the mid 1800’s and still sits on its original foundation stones. The home was deeded to the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation in 2008. It will be re-located to the campus of the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center. Once restored, the Chesser-Williams House will be utilized as a teaching tool to showcase life in early Gwinnett.
The most significant feature of the home is the beautiful, hand painted folk art found on the exterior and interior. The artwork was painted in the late 1800’s and is attributed to an itinerant, German artist who was known to paint in exchange for room and board as he traveled from North Carolina to Texas.
“The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation is honored to partner with the National Trust in preserving the Chesser-Williams House,” said Jason West, Director of Development. “The best way for people to gain an appreciation for the past is to make it relevant to their daily lives. Once completed, this house will provide Gwinnett and the surrounding area with an interpretative, educational experience of the past that can be seen and touched.”
In 1997, a generous gift from George P. Mitchell established the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors in honor of his wife. The fund provides assistance in the preservation, restoration, and interpretation of historic interiors. Once a year, Mitchell Fund grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 are awarded to non-profit groups and public agencies. Over $135,000 were awarded in 2010. Grants must be matched at least dollar for dollar with public or private funds.
For more information on the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Fund for Historic Interiors, visit: www.PreservationNation.org/resources/find-funding/grants.
About the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center (Center) is a unique partnership among Gwinnett County, the Gwinnett County Public School System, the University of Georgia and the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation. The Center provides an opportunity for more than 40,000 students and 25,000 community members annually to participate in interpretative, hand-on field studies and community based educational programming. The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation is a not for profit 501(c)(3), whose purpose to support the mission and vision of the Center and to assist in raising needed funding for its various educational programs and exhibits.
About the National Trust for Historic Preservation
The National Trust for Historic Preservation (www.PreservationNation.org) is a non-profit membership organization bringing people together to protect, enhance and enjoy the places that matter to them. By saving the places where great moments from history – and the important moments of everyday life – took place, the National Trust for Historic Preservation helps revitalize neighborhoods and communities, spark economic development and promote environmental sustainability. With headquarters in Washington, DC, eight regional and field offices, 29 historic sites, and partner organizations in 50 states, territories, and the District of Columbia, the National Trust for Historic Preservation provides leadership, education, advocacy and resources to a national network of people, organizations and local communities committed to saving places, connecting us to our history and collectively shaping the future of America’s stories.
Press Release: BBQ Exhibit On Display This Summer
BBQ Exhibit On Display This Summer at Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center
Buford, Georgia (May 20, 2010) – Whether it is drizzled with mustard, smothered in sauce, or soaked in vinegar, barbeque is a southern tradition. Come celebrate BBQ this summer at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center as it unveils its latest exhibit.
BBQ Joints and the Good Folks Who Own Them is a nationally traveling exhibition organized by the McKissick Museum at the University of South Carolina. It features more than 40 original photographs by author and photographer David Gelin, who traveled thousands of miles from the Carolinas to Texas, studying the cultural and traditional significance of barbeque.
This fascinating exhibit on southern culture will be displayed at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center from June 1, 2010 until August 15, 2010.
“Summer is a wonderful time to celebrate BBQ,” said Jason West, Director of Development for the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation. “We are so excited to host this unique exhibit and look forward to sharing the stories of some great BBQ establishments.”
West invites the public to participate in the exhibit by sharing the flavor and flair of a personal taste in BBQ. “We want to know how you like your pig,” he said. “We are encouraging people to bring by an unopened bottle of their favorite BBQ sauce or a 3 by 5 card with a favorite sauce recipe. We will display these items with the contributor’s name outside of the entrance to the exhibit.”
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center is planning a special opening night reception for members and supporters on Thursday, June 3, 2010.
“We are honored that David Gelin will be joining us on June 3rd as we kick off the exhibit. He will make a presentation on his experience of traveling the South and meeting some special people along the way,” said West. “He will also sign his book, which the exhibit is based on.”
“The best thing about the opening is that folks will enjoy some great local BBQ from one of Gwinnett’s best – JR’s Loghouse,” added West.
Admission to the BBQ Joints exhibit is included with regular admission to the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center. GEHC Members are admitted free. The museum is open Monday through Saturday from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM.
For more information about BBQ Joints and the Good Folks Who Own Them or the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, visit www.gwinnettehc.org.
About the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center (Center) is a unique partnership among Gwinnett County, Gwinnett County Public Schools, the University of Georgia, and the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation. The Center provides an opportunity for more than 40,000 students and 25,000 community members annually to participate in interpretive, hands-on field studies and community based educational programming. The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation is a not for profit 501(c)(3) whose purpose is to support the mission and vision of the Center and to assist in raising needed funding for its various educational programs and exhibits.<o:p></o:p>
Segway Heritage Tour
- Amber Welsh of Timmons Design Engineers speaks to sustainable luncheon participants
In celebration of Georgia Archeology Month, the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center (GEHC) hosted a Segway Heritage Tour on Saturday, May 8, 2010.
The GEHC teamed with Suwanee Segway in providing the eco-friendly tour and heritage program. “The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center was excited to partner with Mark and Semra Staut from Suwanee Segway in putting this program together,” said Jason West, Director of Development for the GEHC Foundation. “Suwanee Segway helped make this day memorable and fun for all the participants.”
GEHC members enjoyed gliding along the trails. They saw the ruins of the old Woodward Mill and learned about its importance in the history of Gwinnett County and Northeast Georgia.
“I enjoyed seeing the old water wheel and discovering information about the area,” said Karen Hill, a GEHC member. “The ride along the trail was beautiful as you could smell the honeysuckle and mountain laurel all along the banks of the Ivy Creek.”
The day was such a success that future Segway tours are being planned for the fall of 2010. “The experience was so great, we are going to plan to do additional tours this autumn. Imagine the beauty of the GEHC trails as the leaves begin to change,” said West.
Be sure and check out the GEHC website and monthly e-newsletters for future details. For more information, contact West at 770-904-3542 or walter.west(at)gwinnettcounty.com.
The Technology of Sustainable Design Exhibit
- Amber Welsh of Timmons Design Engineers speaks to sustainable luncheon participants
Individuals learned more about sustainable design at the Sustainable Luncheon on Wednesday, January 27 from 12:00pm – 1:00pm in the Ivy Room at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center. This event was arranged in correlation with the Center’s newest exhibit The Technology of Sustainable Design which will be on display through Saturday, February 27. Members of the panel included Hank Houser of Houser Walker Architecture, Amber Welsh of Timmons Design Engineers, William Silva of United Renewable Energy, and Steve Cannon of the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center. The panelists provided insight into their respective fields enlightening participants on the latest trends emerging in technology and how architects and engineers are working together at the beginning of the design process to address how resources will be impacted and how to achieve energy savings. The use of solar energy was discussed including how technology has changed and what incentives are currently available to the homeowner. Sustainable characteristics of the Center were highlighted and audience members were challenged to make a difference in the sustainable field.
Georgia School Superintendent Visits GEHC
- Steve Cannon, Executive Director of the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, welcomes Cathy Cox, Georgia State Superintendent of Schools
Cathy Cox, Georgia’s State Superintendent of Schools, visited the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center on Thursday, January 28, 2010. Cox was the guest of the Lawrenceville Kiwanis Club and spoke on the current state of education in Georgia.
Cox stressed the correlation between economic development and education. “The two go hand in hand, “she said. “That’s one of the reasons Gwinnett County is the economic powerhouse it is. You’ve maintained a commitment to high quality public schools in Gwinnett County for decades. You still have some of the highest performing schools not only in Georgia, but in the nation.”
Cox was elected Georgia State Superintendent in 2002 and re-elected in 2006. This was her first visit to the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center.
GEHC Host Member Valentines Event
- A string quartet from the Gwinnet School of Mathematics, Science and Technology
Members of the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center were treated to a special Valentine’s evening on Saturday, February 6, 2010. The GEHC held an Enchanted Evening Nature Walk to show appreciation for its member patrons. Guests braved the cold, bundled up and were treated to a romantic walk led by a staff naturalist. After the stroll, members were fed delicious desserts and entertained by a string quartet from the Gwinnett School of Mathematics, Science and Technology. Guitar Music was also provided by John Molinari, a student at Mill Creek High School.
Member events are held monthly in an effort to show appreciation for GEHC supporters. To find out more about upcoming events and membership opportunities, please contact Jason West, Director of Development, at 770-904-3542.
Venues Go Green Too...Check out GEHC in Atlanta Occasions Magazine
- Click on picture to go to online article
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center, the county's first LEED-certified building, features a variety of event spaces, including the window-walled Ivy Room and the Blue Planet Theater, where a waterfall cascades into an infinity pool. Eco-friendly features include a 35% energy-use reduction and 50% reduction in water-use, a vegetated/planted roof designed to reduce stormwater runoff and a commitment to resource-efficient operation and maintenance.
Marketing Coordinator Danielle Wunn emphasizes that while the facility is very eco-friendly, they are open to everyone. "We encourage people to recycle and be conscious of what they use, but we don't put limitations on the choices they make," she said.
"It takes creativity to become green," Wunn continues. " You might need to do a little more research, but you can almost find anything in a green version. It's easy to find vendors who fit into the planner's shade of green."
ECO-OCCASIONS ATLANTAMAGAZINE.COM WINTER 2010
News Summary of Flyway Cities Meeting
The Metro Atlanta Flyway Cities Coalition (MAFCC, www.flywaycities.org) held their fourth stakeholders meeting at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center (GEHC) on February 8, 2010. The Flyway Cities Coalition is a National Wildlife Federation effort that brings together the efforts of local groups within target cities that are located in wildlife habitat corridors, or “flyways.” The two main goals of the program are to increase the quality, quantity, and connectivity of wildlife habitat for native migratory and resident species within flyways and to foster collaboration and cooperation among local groups with related goals. Atlanta is part of the Atlantic Flyway corridor, and it is one of the first three cities in the US to be selected to participate in this program. GEHC is a partner organization in the MAFCC. Over 30 participants from local stakeholder groups attended the meeting.
The focus of the February 8 meeting was on landscape ecology trends in Metro Atlanta. Landscape ecologists study the connection between landscape patterns and ecological processes. Dr. Jeff Hepinstall-Cymerman (Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, University of Georgia, www.forestry.uga.edu) and graduate students Paige Barlow and John Frisch spoke at the meeting. Their presentations illustrated land use trends and predicted future changes that may influence conservation decisions pertaining to migratory species. Following the presentations, meeting attendees discussed ways that similar studies could help the Coalition’s member organizations meet their shared goals.
The Green Team
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center Foundation has sponsored a FIRST Lego League team called The Green Team. This is the first year that the Foundation has been involved with the organization, but they are excited to be engaged with not only a team, but also as a host venue for the December 5th Regional Qualifier. The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center is a science and cultural education center that has interactive museum exhibits, multi-purpose trails, special event spaces, Pre-K-12 interactive field trips, and a university level teaching science laboratory. The Center's vision is to provide an exemplary, high-tech cultural center known for hands-on science exhibits and quality educational programming that inspires visitors to become better stewards of our environment. As well as to transform the concepts of science and history into interactive, learn-by-doing experiences that will encourage a visitor's natural curiosity and sense of wonder about themselves and the world around them.
Public school students, private school students, and homeschool students came together to create the innovative and unique FIRST Green Team!
2009 Reflections Competition
The Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center partnered with the Gwinnett County Area 3 PTA Council to celebrate the National PTA annual arts Reflections Program. The program offers students the opportunity to create works of art for fun and recognition. Students in preschool through grade 12 are encouraged to create and submit works of art in one or more of six areas: literature, musical composition, photography, visual arts, dance choreography and film/video production. In its more than 30-year history, the program has encouraged millions of students across the nation and in American schools overseas to create works of art.
Mill Creek High School orchestra students Martin Gomez, Connor Leydecker, Jarred Cook and Alyssa Causey filled the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center with magnificent music on the awards presentation night!
Ecological Society of America Blog
Check out the blog from the Ecological Society of America! Participants from the ESA Millennium Conference visited the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center as well as the F. Wayne Hill Water Resources Plant. Check out what they had to say about their experience! http://www.esa.org/
Thank you Georgia Master Gardeners!
The Georgia Master Gardeners celebrated their 30th anniversary by volunteering at the Gwinnett Environmental & Heritage Center on September 29, 2009. Their day of service included building raised bed gardens, creating an addition to a demonstration garden they had previously planted, and pruning and maintaining plants around the Center. A total of 60 Master Gardeners participated in this project – including the students from the Junior Master Gardener program! The day was a success and the GEHC staff is very appreciative of the hard work donated to the Center! We look forward to continuing to educate the community about the importance of sustainable gardening practices and landscaping techniques.
Come visit the Center and see the great work the Master Gardeners did for us!
