Hey neighbor!

Happy Thursday! Whether you're gearing up for a fun weekend outing or just need some local inspiration, I've got you covered.

Today I'm bringing you two fantastic seafood restaurants (one upscale, one soulful), exciting weekend events including bull riding and live music, a cozy coffee shop in Duluth, a spotlight on a local comics and games shop, and an important winter weather resource from Gwinnett County Emergency Management.

Let's dive in.

130 S Clayton St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046 (Downtown)
Monday–Thursday: 11am–9pm | Friday–Saturday: 11am–10pm | Sunday: 11am–8pm
📞 (678) 580-1133

Craving fresh seafood or premium cuts? Parkside District has been a go-to spot in Gwinnett for its upscale yet approachable vibe, featuring everything from oysters and lobster to dry-aged steaks and creative sides.

The modern industrial space with outdoor seating makes it perfect for a casual lunch or special dinner, and they source locally whenever possible. Whether you're celebrating something special or just treating yourself to a quality meal, Parkside delivers on both atmosphere and flavor.

Pro tip: Try their weekend specials or happy hour deals for craft cocktails and small plates.

📍 parksidedistrict.com

1002 Duluth Hwy, Suite 400, Lawrenceville, GA 30043
Monday–Saturday: 11am–10pm | Sunday: 12pm–10pm
📞 (770) 910-9307

For fresh, flavorful seafood with a soulful twist, Off The Hook is a Black-owned gem serving up fried fish, shrimp, wings, and combos that hit the spot.

Think crispy catfish, jumbo shrimp, and hearty sides like fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies in a casual, welcoming spot that's perfect for takeout or dine-in. The portions are generous, the seasoning is on point, and the quality is consistently excellent.

Pro tip: Go for the seafood platters or add some wings for a mix — you won't leave hungry.

📍 offthehookfishandshrimp.com

🤠 Bulls, Bands & Barrels — Gas South Arena, Duluth
Saturday, January 24 at 7pm

Get ready for high-energy action with professional bull riding, barrel racing, and live country music all in one show. It's an exciting mix that's perfect for adrenaline seekers and music fans alike — the kind of night that'll have you on your feet cheering. Tickets start around $25-40, making it an affordable and memorable weekend experience.

📍 6400 Sugarloaf Pkwy, Duluth
📍 gassouthdistrict.com

🎭 Carla Cooke Performance — Eagle Theatre, Sugar Hill
Saturday, January 24 at 8pm

Experience the soulful sounds of Carla Cooke, daughter of legendary Sam Cooke, in a tribute to music, history, and romance. This intimate show blends jazz, soul, and storytelling for a memorable night out. If you love live music and want to hear a voice that carries the legacy of one of music's greats, this is your night.

Tickets start at $30.

📍 5029 W Broad St, Sugar Hill
📍 sugarhillga.gov

3705 Old Norcross Rd, Suite 100, Duluth, GA 30096
Every Day: 10am–11pm
📞 (470) 395-9142

Need a spot to unwind with a quality brew? Cafe 104 offers a trendy, casual vibe with freshly brewed coffee, magic-infused smoothies, and delectable desserts alongside hearty brunch options like generously sized pancakes.

It's an all-day sanctuary in Duluth with a hipster atmosphere perfect for working, relaxing, or catching up with friends. Whether you need a morning pick-me-up, a midday work session, or a late-night dessert and coffee, Cafe 104 has you covered.

Pro tip: Try the Pistachio Espresso for a unique flavor twist and enjoy the intimate, group-friendly space.

📍 cafe104duluth.com

Lawrenceville: 116 E Crogan St, Lawrenceville, GA 30046
Buford: 4260 Buford Dr, Buford, GA 30518
📞 (770) 339-3001
🌐 galacticquest.com

If you're into comics, games, or pop culture, Galactic Quest is a Gwinnett gem that's been serving fans for years with a huge selection of new and vintage comics, graphic novels, board games, and collectibles.

This family-owned shop hosts events like game nights and signings, making it a hub for the local geek community. Whether you're a hardcore collector, a casual reader, or looking for the perfect gift for someone who loves Marvel, DC, manga, or tabletop gaming, Galactic Quest has something for you.

What they offer: ✅ Massive inventory of comics and manga
✅ Tabletop games and RPG supplies
✅ Funko Pops and memorabilia
✅ Friendly staff with expert recommendations
✅ Online store for easy shopping

With locations in Lawrenceville and Buford, it's easy to pop in and discover something new. Support local and feed your inner nerd.

📍 galacticquest.com

📞 (770) 513-5600
🌐 gwinnettcounty.com/departments/police/emergencymanagement/beprepared

With winter weather possible in Georgia, Gwinnett County's Emergency Management provides essential tips and resources to help you stay safe when temperatures drop or ice and snow move in.

Build a "Ready" kit with at least a 3-day supply of:

Stay informed on alerts like Winter Storm Watches (50% chance of heavy snow/ice in 12-48 hours) or Warnings (80% chance in 24 hours) via NOAA Weather Radio, weather apps, or Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.

Key highlights: ✅ Prepare for frost, freeze, or wind chill advisories seasonally
✅ Contact Emergency Management for free NOAA Weather Radios (while supplies last)
✅ Customize your kit for family-specific needs (infant supplies, pet food, etc.)

Winter weather can be unpredictable in Georgia, and being prepared means you and your family can ride it out safely. Take a few minutes this weekend to check your supplies and make sure you're ready.

📍 gwinnettcounty.com/departments/police/emergencymanagement/beprepared

Saturday, January 24
Planned Pethood, 2860 Buford Hwy, Duluth, GA 30096
FREE — Advance registration required

Join bestselling local author McCall Hoyle as she shares her writing journey and answers questions in this free event for kids and families. Plus, witness the grand reveal of Planned Pethood's new Little Free Library to inspire young readers and animal lovers.

It's a wonderful opportunity for kids who love reading and animals to meet a real author and get excited about books and storytelling.

📍 plannedpethoodga.org (check for registration details)

Who's the best service-based business you've worked with in Gwinnett?

I'm talking plumbers, electricians, landscapers, house cleaners, HVAC companies, handymen, pet groomers — the people who keep our homes and lives running smoothly.

Reply to this email and tell me who you'd recommend to your neighbors. I want to spotlight the local businesses that are doing great work and deserve more love.

Have a fantastic weekend, neighbor! Get out there, enjoy some great food, catch a show, and soak up everything Gwinnett has to offer.

Know someone who lives in Gwinnett? Forward this email to them — they'll thank you.