🌱 Duluth HS Counselor Awarded + New Pets At Planned PEThood

Happy Friday, neighbors! Here's everything worth knowing today in town.

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First, today's weather:

Nice with plenty of sunshine. High: 64 Low: 38.

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Here are the top three stories in Duluth today:

1. Counselor Donyale Turner has been awarded the Gwinnett County Secondary School Counselor of the Year for 2022. She was recognized at the district award ceremony on Tuesday, Feb. 8th. Turner has nearly 24 years of experience as a counselor and played a key role in the development of the Duluth High School Social Emotional Learning and Equity work. (Press Release Desk)
   
2. A new Gwinnett County Commission map, drawn by Republicans over the objections of most of Gwinnett's legislative delegation, passed the state Senate Thursday morning. Sen. Michelle Au (D-Johns Creek), whose district includes Duluth, described the Senators' vote against the unanimously approved map as a "discouraging display" of how "the minority party [has] their will subverted," despite the approval and support from the all-Democratic county commission and legislators who make up a majority of the Gwinnett delegation. (The Atlanta Journal Constitution)
3. Looking to bring a new pet into your life? There are plenty of adoptable animals in Duluth and the greater Atlanta area. Dogs and cats of all ages can be found at several shelters and adoption centers, including Planned PEThood of Georgia at 2860 Buford Highway. For pictures and full descriptions, check out our roundup list. (Duluth Patch)

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Today in Duluth:

• Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute Act Skynfolks at Eddie Owen Presents: Red Clay Music Foundry at 3116 Main St. (8:00 PM)

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From my notebook:

• City Hall announced a new development coming to Downtown Duluth in spring 2023. Starting early morning on Tuesday, Feb. 15, the Paver Lot, located between Truck & Tap and Taylor Lot, will be closed. (Facebook)
• City Hall is keeping residents posted on Taylor Lot. The playground is closed as renovations are underway. The SPLOST project is expected to complete in the spring. (Facebook)
• The Duluth Police Department has identified a significant spike in stolen catalytic converters in Duluth and the entire Atlanta area. Reduce your chances of being a victim by parking in well-lit, populated areas and parking in a garage, if possible. (Facebook)

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Now you're in the loop and ready to head out the door on this Friday. See you all tomorrow for another update!

— Nicole Fallon-Peek

About me: Nicole Fallon-Peek is a journalist and copywriter with a degree in Media, Culture and Communication from New York University. She has served as a freelance reporter, managing editor, copy editor, and editorial director for a variety of B2B news outlets. She currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.