🌱 A Not So Polar Plunge For A Cause + More Victims Of 'Witch Doctor'

Hello again, everybody! It's me, your host of the Patch newsletter. Here are some important things to know about what's happening in town, including:

• Yellow Daisy Festival applications are being accepted from now until March 10
• In the nearby city of Monroe, police are searching for a man, considered armed and dangerous, after a violent shooting Wednesday night
• Grayson Rams advance to second round of basketball playoffs on their temporary neighboring court

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But first, today's weather: The warmer temperatures are here to stay, but with some afternoon showers. The high is 74 and the low is 52, so it will cool off as the rain comes in this evening.

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Here are the top stories today in Loganville-Grayson:

1. The Gwinnett County 'witch doctor' could face additional charges after six other victims have reported sexual assault. Hassan Shalgheen, 44, was arrested last week for rape, however, at his court appearance on Wednesday, Det. Eddie Gomez testified that six other women have come forward since Shalgheen's arrest on Feb. 6, indicating that additional charges are coming soon. After promising to help women through tough times with his alternative medicine practices, he lured them into vulnerable situations and sexually assaulted them. Duluth Police are urging any additional victims to come forward. (WSB Atlanta)
2. Police, in the nearby City of Monroe, are searching for 24-year old De'erreist Laquez Crutchfield after he was identified as the suspected shooter in the death of a man on Wednesday night. City of Monroe Police responded to a call of "shots fired and a person shot" late Wednesday night. They found 37-year-old Terrance Gaither deceased in his driveway. Although Crutchfield was identified as the shooter, and a warrant has been issued for his arrest, charging him with murder, it is unclear if the two men knew each other. Crutchfield is "considered armed and dangerous," and anyone with information on his whereabouts should call Det. Mitch Studdard at 678-283-5422. (Newsbreak)

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Today in Loganville-Grayson:

• The Art-Tiques Winter Market presented by the Braselton Antique & Artisan Festival starts today at the Braselton Historic Gym. Don't miss out on over 150 local vendors, antiques, live music, and more! (Feb. 24 at 12:00 pm to Feb. 26 at 5:00 pm)
• Don't miss the special show, Phenomenon, at the Aurora Theatre in Lawrenceville. The interactive show will create an immersive experience into the four seasons. (7:30 pm)
• Moonshiner's Bar & Grill in Grayson will host a local favorite, the Dr. Kahn Punk Pop band is here to kick off the weekend. (9:00 pm)

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From my notebook:

• Although it may not feel much like a "polar" kind of weekend, this Saturday, Feb. 25, the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office is going to "get freezin' for a reason." Please consider donating to this special cause, as all proceeds are donated to the Special Olympics Georgia athletes. Visit the link for more details on the 2023 Special Olympics Polar Plunge and see how to make your donation today! (Facebook)
• The Yellow Daisy Festival will be back this year, Sept. 7 - 10, for the 55th year at Stone Mountain Park. Applications and fees are being accepted from now until March 10 at midnight for artisans and vendors to submit for a chance to have a booth at the festival. If you are not selected, your booth fee is refunded to you. Each year, rain or shine, the festival is home to over 300 artisans from all over the country and is voted one of the top arts and crafts shows. This year's show will be held in the Events Meadow located within the park. (Atlanta Journal and Constitution)
• The Grayson Rams boys basketball team has a new home for the GHSA State Playoffs, but that doesn't seem to be slowing them down. After a kick gone wrong in a P.E. class, a busted sprinkler derailed the Rams hosting abilities for the playoffs. Nearby Archer High School will be home to the Rams during their playoff run. Wednesday night, the Rams did just fine on their temporary court, scoring a season high, with a 99-56 victory over Marietta. Grayson's Chad Moodie had 19 points, 8 rebounds, 3 blocks, and 3 assists, and Amir Taylor had 17 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals. The Rams had a total 13 players score on their way to a solid win. (Gwinnett Prep Sports)

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Now you're all caught up and ready to start this Friday. I'll be back soon with more news!