Each May, it is not unusual to find bags of Vidalia onions in the vehicles of members of the North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club. While that may seem unusual to most people, those bags of sweet Georgia-grown onions help make college dreams a reality for local students.
The North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club has sold Vidalia onions each spring since 1994 to raise money for scholarships awarded to graduating seniors at Buford, Lanier, Mill Creek, Mountain View and North Gwinnett high schools.
This year, the club awarded 18 scholarships worth $1,000 each.
Every bag sold makes a difference. It takes the sale of about 166 bags of onions to find a single $1,000 scholarship. Longtime member and the chairman of the onion sales committee, Jay Asgari, has consistently been the club’s top seller. This year, he sold $12,000 worth of onions. Other members are divided into teams each year in a friendly competition to see whether they can top Asgari’s sales.
The onion sale isn’t the club’s only fundraiser. Every February, the North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club hosts three Father-Daughter dances at the Braselton Civic Center. The popular events attract nearly 1,000 attendees each year, with proceeds helping fund scholarships and other charitable projects that benefit the community.
Before scholarships are awarded, Kiwanis members interview applicants at each of the participating high schools. Members say choosing recipients is never easy because of the impressive accomplishments and bright futures of the students they meet.
This year’s scholarship recipients are:
Buford High School: Kaitlin Lai, Samuel Malagon, Madison Nguyen and Adriana Perez Urbina
Lanier High School: David Daniel-Udo, Nathalia Figueroa, Gina Kim and Alejandra Saldierna Torres
Phoenix High School (Spirit of Phoenix scholarship): Jonathan Marcos-Luna
The scholarship recipients were recognized during the club’s June 23 meeting. Eight students attended and shared how the scholarships will help them pursue their college goals, along with heartfelt thanks for the support they received from the Kiwanis Club.
The North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club is part of Kiwanis International, which describes itself as “a global organization of volunteers dedicated to improving the world one child and one community at a time.”
The club meets on the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at the Buford Community Center. Lunch is served at noon before the meeting begins, and visitors are welcome. Members also volunteer on the third Monday of the month at the North Gwinnett Co-Op food pantry.
For more information on the North Gwinnett Kiwanis Club, visit kiwanisclubofnorthgwinnett.com.
BRASELTON — Northeast Georgia Medical Center Braselton has become the first hospital in the state to receive an official Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit designation from the Georgia Department of Public Health. This marks a significant milestone for neonatal care in the region.
The designation, based on national standards established by the American Academy of Pediatrics, confirms the hospital’s ability to provide advanced, risk-appropriate care for premature and ill newborns.
While NGMC Braselton has operated as a Level II NICU since receiving state approval in 2016, the new designation formally verifies that the unit meets or exceeds nationally recognized standards for neonatal care.
“Families in our growing community deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing advanced neonatal care is available close to home,” said Kevin Matson, vice president of regional hospitals at Northeast Georgia Health System. “This designation reflects our ongoing investment in specialized staff, technology and services that support healthy beginnings for every baby.”
The recognition strengthens the health system’s regional network of neonatal services. It follows the official designation of a Level III NICU at Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville last fall. As a result, access to specialized care for families across Northeast Georgia has expanded.
“Receiving this designation is a significant milestone for our organization and for the families we serve,” said Brittany Smith, director of NICU at NGHS. “It validates the exceptional work of our neonatal team and reinforces our dedication to ensuring that babies born in our community have access to the specialized care they need close to home.”
The designation provides families in Braselton and surrounding communities with increased access to high-quality neonatal care without the need to travel far. This is an important factor for parents facing high-risk or premature births.
For more information about women’s and children’s services, visit nghs.com/women.
Every February, the Kiwanis Father-Daughter Valentine Dance transforms an ordinary evening into something out of a storybook, twirling dresses, polished shoes, fresh corsages and proud fathers standing just a little taller beside their daughters.
The annual event represents far more than music and photographs. It represents a promise.
For Andrew Southerland, that promise began before his daughter Molly was old enough to understand what the tradition would mean.
Andrew Southerland and daughter Molly at their first father-daughter dance
“When I look at Molly, I see a blessing sent by God,” Southerland said. “It is my job as her dad to protect her, love her and show her how valuable she is. The Father-Daughter Dance gave me a chance to raise her standards on how a man in her life should act.”
What began as a special night out gradually became something deeper a yearly investment in time and intention.
“The biggest way it shaped our relationship is communication,” Southerland said. “The conversations we would have over dinner and the time spent just the two of us helped us form a bond where we can talk about anything.”
As Molly has grown, so have those conversations.
Early dances were filled with talk of favorite movies and childhood interests. Now, the discussions center on her future career aspirations, personal values, and what she should expect one day in a spouse.
Andrew and Molly before the 2018 father-daughter dance
“The dance is so much fun,” Southerland said, “but the conversations over dinner and in the car ride to and from the dance are what I will remember most.”
For Molly, the night has always felt intentional.
“My favorite part of the Father-Daughter Dance with my dad is getting to spend a special night with him, just us two and catch up on our lives,” she said. “It’s a yearly reminder of his love and care for our family.”
That consistency has shaped her sense of worth.
“It makes me feel so special,” Molly said. “He makes the night so fun and really a special experience. I truly love this night every year.”
One memory stands out, a year when a princess carriage was part of the festivities.
Andrew and Molly Southerland at the 2026 Kiwanis Father-Daughter dance
“I truly felt like a little princess riding in her carriage with my dad and cousins,” she said. “It was an amazing experience I’ll forever remember.”
Across the dance floor, a similar story has unfolded for Josh Brown and his 13-year-old daughter, Lilly.
For Brown, the annual dance has become a cornerstone of their relationship.
“This dance is very special to me,” Brown said. “It gives me a chance to spend time with my daughter, showing her how one day a young man should treat her. We have come year after year, and I believe that this consistency teaches her that she is special and deserves to be treated like a princess.”
Like Southerland, Brown views the tradition as intentional, particularly as his daughter enters her teenage years.
“As she is maturing into a young lady, it is important to me for her to never forget how much I love her,” he said.
For Brown, much of the bonding happens long before the first song begins.
“We bond in the moments leading up to the dance,” he said. “Going to the store together to find the perfect dress. After finding her dress, finding the right suit to complement her. Picking out her corsage and always having a special gift waiting in the car. What we really discover during that time is a better understanding of each other.”
Lilly says the consistency has never gone unnoticed.
“Knowing that every year I can look forward to this special day makes me feel so valued and loved,” she said. “It makes me realize how much he puts me first, no matter what else is going on.”
As she has grown older, the evening has taken on new meaning.
Josh Brown with daughter Lilly at one of their first father-daughter dances
“When I was little, it was mostly about dressing up and having fun,” Lilly said. “But as I got older, it turned into a special time where we talked and got closer. Now it means so much more to me every year.”
Some of the most meaningful memories have come in unexpected moments.
Brown still remembers their first dance when Lilly was four years old.
“I opened her door and helped her out of the car,” he said. “I went to take her hand, and she said, ‘No, Daddy, let me show you.’ She placed my hand at my side and said, ‘You keep your arm like this and I will hang my arm around it.’ She has always been a little lady.”
For Lilly, one favorite memory came during the COVID-19 pandemic when the event was canceled.
“He made it his mission to keep our tradition alive,” she said. “We rode a limo to a fancy dinner in Atlanta, and on the way it started to snow. That little moment made everything feel so magical.”
Even without the formal dance, the tradition endured.
Josh and Lilly Brown before the 2022 father-daughter dance
For both fathers, the deeper message is clear.
“My prayer is that she knows how truly valuable she is,” Southerland said. “That she never settles for anything less than God’s will for her life.”
“I hope these dances reinforce that she is worthy of love and respect,” Brown said. “That she is fearfully and wonderfully made.”
When asked what the tradition says about her relationship with her father, Lilly offered a simple answer.
“I think it shows that our relationship is really strong,” she said. “No matter what is going on, he makes sure we have this special time and lets me know that I’m always a priority.”
Molly shares a similar sentiment.
“From the new dress to the fancy dinner, the flowers and the community of dads and daughters we see every year — it’s all special,” she said. “It’s amazing to see the kind souls every year.”
In a fast-moving world filled with crowded schedules and constant distractions, the Kiwanis Father-Daughter Valentine Dance offers something increasingly rare: an intentional pause.
Josh and Lilly Brown at the 2026 Kiwanis Father-Daughter dance
Fifteen dances.
Thirteen dances.
Dozens of car rides, dinners, corsages, inside jokes and quiet conversations.
Long after the music fades and the dresses are packed away, what remains is something far more enduring trust, communication and the quiet confidence of a daughter who knows she is cherished.
More than a dance, it is a father showing up.
Year after year.
And a daughter learning, without question, that she is loved.
Herron has more than 10 years of experience as a physician assistant. Before joining the vein clinic, she worked in general surgery with NGPG Surgical Associates.
At the Braselton clinic, Herron evaluates patients and develops treatment plans tailored to individual needs. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, compression therapy and minimally invasive procedures.
“Varicose veins, spider veins and chronic venous insufficiency are very common,” Herron said. “More than 30 million Americans experience these conditions, but many remain undiagnosed and untreated.”
The clinic offers several minimally invasive treatments, including sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, VenaSeal, Varithena and phlebectomy. Some treatments may be covered by insurance, and self-pay options are available.
The Vein Clinic is located inside the NGPG Vascular Center at 1515 River Place, Suite 280, in Medical Plaza 1 on the NGMC Braselton campus. Appointments can be scheduled online or by calling the clinic.
Northeast Georgia Physicians Group includes more than 700 physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, midwives and clinical staff across more than 50 locations in North Georgia, offering care in more than 40 specialties.
The group is affiliated with Northeast Georgia Health System, which serves more than 1 million residents in 19 counties and operates hospitals in Gainesville, Braselton, Winder, Dahlonega and Demorest.
GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Northeast Georgia Medical Center Gainesville has been re-verified as a Level I trauma center by the American College of Surgeons, hospital officials announced.
The designation maintains NGMC Gainesville’s status as one of six nationally verified Level I trauma centers in Georgia, according to Northeast Georgia Health System. Level I trauma centers must meet standards set by the American College of Surgeons, including providing advanced trauma care, 24-hour surgical coverage, research, education, and community outreach. Re-verification confirms the hospital continues to meet those requirements.
“This re-verification reflects years of dedication, innovation and teamwork across our entire trauma system,” said Walt Wiley, executive director for Emergency, Trauma, Observation and EMS Services at NGMC.
Matthew Vassy, M.D., trauma medical director for NGMC Gainesville, said the designation demonstrates the hospital’s continued commitment to improving trauma care for patients across North Georgia.
“Our surgeons, nurses, specialists, EMS partners and support teams work together every day to care for the most critically injured patients in our region,” Vassy said.
Hospital officials said the opening of NGMC Gainesville’s Green Tower in February 2025 expanded the hospital’s trauma capabilities, including dedicated trauma and resuscitation spaces and a rooftop helipad connected to the emergency department by elevators designed to speed patient transport.
Jessica Mantooth, trauma program director for NGMC, said the Level I designation also reflects the hospital’s leadership role in trauma care across the region. “With Level I status comes a responsibility to lead, innovate and support trauma care across the region,” Mantooth said.
Northeast Georgia Health System is a nonprofit organization that serves more than 1 million patients across the region through five hospitals and multiple outpatient locations. Northeast Georgia Medical Center operates campuses in Gainesville, Braselton, Winder, Dahlonega, and Demorest.
Braselton – On Saturday, October 18, drift cars from across the country packed into Lanier Raceplex for one of the premier grassroots drifting events of the year. Cosmic Drift—hosted by David Patterson, better known as That Dude in Blue—lit up the track with neon lights, thumping music, and clouds of tire smoke that doubled as fog for a laser show.
From local amateurs to out-of-state professionals, every driver arrived with the same goal: have fun and put on a show. Driver registration filled up a week early, and hillside and paddock parking sold out days before the event.
Drifting, a motorsport consisting of destroying tires.
Drivers Take the Spotlight
Engines roared to life as cars took to the track, and by 8 p.m., the halftime show was in full swing. Fan-favorite drift games like The Table Game, where drivers attempt to stop as close as possible to a folding table, and Drift Limbo, which challenges cars to slide through a narrowing cone gap, had the stands full and the paddock buzzing with energy.
Galib sharing kind words with fellow drivers and spectators in the paddock between laps.
For Galib, one of the drivers, drifting is about more than just speed and smoke.
“Drifting has pushed me to be better as a person and, at the end of it all, it’s saved me. It’s taught me to be patient, curious to always learn, to accept feedback, and to keep pushing—leveling up in my career and knowledge. It’s also brought so many people into my life that I didn’t think I’d meet, and it’s led to some unforgettable experiences. From meeting those people, it brings the community together—the ability to push each other, try new things, and be there for one another. After a while, you learn to be a family, helping whoever needs it and giving feedback where it’s needed so this can grow big and stay around like all the other motorsports.”
Sometimes even in lines of 5 cars long, tandem runs never fail to please the crowd.
He also shared the joy of giving newcomers their first drifting experience:
“It feels like when Squidward tried Krabby Patties for the first time, you know? It’s always so exciting, and you’re trying to give them an experience they can remember for a lifetime and try it out. That way more people can be a part of it and grow the sport!”
Austin, a driver with Iggnit Style Garage, spoke about the thrill of giving ride-alongs and the unique appeal of drifting itself.
Austin getting ready to shred some tires in the signature Iggnit Style purple BMW.
“It feels like when Morpheus gave Neo the red pill. I get to open people’s eyes to a whole world they’ve only been able to see from the outside, but with me they get to truly experience it. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve given their first ride to and then get messages weeks later saying they went out and bought a car. Drifting is the most expressive version of motorsport. The car can be anything you want—it just needs to spin the back wheels. And because of that, no two cars here are the same. That’s what brings all these people out—there’s something here for everyone.”
Behind the Scenes
Matt Martin, team manager of Iggnit Style Garage and one of the event organizers, reflected on the growth of Cosmic Drift.
A fully lit tunnel to the track make this event like no other for drivers.
“Cosmic has always been David’s passion project, and over the past three years we’ve helped turn it into reality. What makes it different is that it’s just as much driver-focused as spectator-focused. The lights, tunnel, and music give drivers something more to look forward to, making it spectacular rather than just seat time. This year, we had a sold-out paddock, hillside, and spectator areas—I’ve never seen anything like it.”
He also praised the community for keeping the event running smoothly:
“Driver spots sold out first, followed by Hillside and Paddock. After the event, we learned some people were parking and walking from Road Atlanta because there were no spots left. With 140 drivers, everything ran smoothly all day. Seeing the community come together to support David and the event was incredible. He’s always putting in the effort to make each Cosmic better than the last, and this year set a high bar.”
Matt Martin taking in the results of everyone’s hard work.
Fans Feel the Community
For spectators like Ivy Brooke, drifting is as much about the people as it is the cars.
“The community in itself is just one big happy family. I respect it. As someone who just watches and takes the occasional photo, it’s cool to see everyone having a good time and doing what they love to do,” she said.
Reflections from the Creator
For David Patterson, Cosmic Drift 2025 was the culmination of a year of planning and a personal milestone:
David and Austin sharing words about the spectacular turn-out before night fell.
“After I did an entire year of planning, COSMIC DRIFT 2025 is easily one of the greatest achievements of my career and an amazing victory for the East Coast drift community. The people in these photos and videos are the people who helped make my insane idea a reality and I will always be thankful.”
He also shared some standout stats and moments from the event:
The venue sold out, with roughly 2,500 attendees, and some had to be turned away from the street.
140 drivers took to the track with “EPIC” performances.
Merchandise sold out in just two hours—a first in his 15 years of running events.
Teams and friends supported the setup and operations throughout the event.
A spectacular laser show used the tire smoke as the fog machine.
The event coincided with Patterson’s 35th birthday, celebrated in true drift-style with a cake thrown in epic fashion.
By nightfall, traffic backed up along the main road as spectators were turned away after the venue hit capacity. Some even parked across the street at Road Atlanta and walked over, determined not to miss the action.
Lanier Raceplex once again proved why it’s one of the top grassroots drifting venues in the Southeast—where passion, skill, and camaraderie collide under the glow of cosmic lights.
David Patterson (center) surrounded by everyone who helped make his dream a reality.
Photos Courtesy of Cory Self, @TracksidePerspective
BRASELTON — Former Braselton Police Chief Michael Steffman resigned Wednesday and was arrested hours later following a months-long investigation into allegations that he used law-enforcement systems to track and harass multiple people.
Jackson County authorities charged Steffman with felony violation of oath by a public officer, misdemeanor stalking, harassing communications and several counts tied to the improper use of law-enforcement license-plate data. He was booked into the Jackson County Jail Wednesday afternoon and released on a $13,000 bond within an hour.
Newly obtained court records show concerns surfaced months before the arrest. In August, a Jackson County woman filed for a temporary protective order alleging Steffman used automatic license-plate readers to monitor her movements, followed her to different locations and contacted her repeatedly from multiple phone numbers. The petition claimed he tracked her to neighborhoods, local venues and other sites and sent her maps of her whereabouts. A Superior Court judge reviewed the accusations but denied the order, noting the claims involved past conduct and advising the woman to file a report with the sheriff’s office.
Steffman joined the Braselton Police Department in 2005 and served in multiple roles before being named interim chief in 2024. He was sworn in as chief in April of this year. Town officials had announced his sudden resignation Wednesday morning, attributing it to personal reasons.
Town Manager Jennifer Scott issued a statement acknowledging the charges and said officials were disappointed by the circumstances but would respect the legal process as it moves forward. She said the town remains focused on maintaining strong public safety services.
Following Steffman’s resignation, the town appointed Captain Zack Tiller to serve as interim chief while the investigation continues and the department stabilizes operations.
Authorities have not said how many individuals may have been affected or whether further charges are possible. The investigation remains active.
Braselton – On Saturday, Oct. 18, drift cars from across the country packed into Lanier Raceway for one of the premier grassroots drifting events of the year. Cosmic Drift—hosted by David Patterson, better known as That Dude in Blue—lit up the track with neon lights, thumping music, and clouds of tire smoke that doubled as fog for a laser show.
Unlike street “takeover” culture, these drivers brought their cars to a proper racetrack with proper safety equipment, keeping the thrills safe and legal while giving fans the chance to experience thrilling motorsport at its finest. From local amateurs to out-of-state professionals, every driver arrived with the same goal: have fun and put on a show. Driver registration filled up a week early, and hillside and paddock parking sold out days before the event.
Drifting, a motorsport consisting of destroying tires.
Drivers Take the Spotlight
Engines roared to life as cars took to the track, and by 8 p.m., the halftime show was in full swing. Fan-favorite drift games like The Table Game, where drivers attempt to stop as close as possible to a folding table, and Drift Limbo, which challenges cars to slide through a narrowing cone gap, had the stands full and the paddock buzzing with energy. In the midst of it all, some drivers took the time to speak with us about why they do what they do and the community around it.
Galib sharing kind words with fellow drivers and spectators in the paddock between laps.
For Galib Dzebo, one of the drivers, drifting is about more than just speed and smoke.
“Drifting has pushed me to be better as a person and, at the end of it all, it’s saved me. It’s taught me to be patient, curious to always learn, to accept feedback, and to keep pushing—leveling up in my career and knowledge. It’s also brought so many people into my life that I didn’t think I’d meet, and it’s led to some unforgettable experiences. From meeting those people, it brings the community together—the ability to push each other, try new things, and be there for one another. After a while, you learn to be a family, helping whoever needs it and giving feedback where it’s needed so this can grow big and stay around like all the other motorsports.”
Sometimes even in lines of 5 cars long, tandem runs never fail to please the crowd.
He also shared the joy of giving newcomers their first drifting experience:
“It feels like when Squidward tried Krabby Patties for the first time, you know? It’s always so exciting, and you’re trying to give them an experience they can remember for a lifetime and try it out. That way more people can be a part of it and grow the sport!”
Austin, a driver with Iggnit Style Garage, spoke about the thrill of giving ride-alongs and the unique appeal of drifting itself.
Austin getting ready to shred in the Iggnit Style Garage BMW E46.
“It feels like in The Matrix when Morpheus gave Neo the red pill. I get to open people’s eyes to a whole world they’ve only been able to see from the outside, but with me they get to truly experience it. I can’t tell you how many people I’ve given their first ride to and then get messages weeks later saying they went out and bought a car. Drifting is the most expressive version of motorsport. The car can be anything you want—it just needs to spin the back wheels. And because of that, no two cars here are the same. That’s what brings all these people out—there’s something here for everyone.”
Community & Camaraderie
Bryana, another driver in the Atlanta drift scene, shared what drifting means to her and how the community supports one another.
Bryanna casually piloting her Lexus around the course.
“Drifting is my vice. It brings a smile to my face, it feeds my soul. Through drifting, I have learned to not only be a better driver, but to be a better person. Drifting has taught me to have patience, empathy, and to be kind to myself as well as others. It has showed me my strengths, as well as weaknesses, and I’m constantly learning more. The Atlanta drift community has something different about it. From providing feedback and advice to help other drivers grow, to making sure that if someone breaks down, we work together to find a solution so everyone can enjoy their seat time, our drift community has it all. There’s a different level of camaraderie in drifting that you may not find anywhere else. I’ve made some of the most incredible friends through this sport, and will be forever grateful.”
She also spoke about diversity and encouragement:
Bryanna cheering on the other drivers.
“I can honestly say I don’t notice a difference being a woman that drifts. The community has been so welcoming to me and so many others. It’s all about supporting and encouraging one another to get outside of their comfort zone. I will always root for everyone, especially my fellow ladies, to try something that scares you. It may just be the best thing you’ve ever done.”
On giving ride-alongs:
“Nothing in the world makes me happier than getting to share new experiences with new people. I’ve learned that giving others a glimpse into my world, even just for a ride-along, can change someone’s trajectory in life. One of my favorite moments is when a lady hops into my car and realizes that I’m another girl, driving like a madman, and it’s enough to spark a conversation of, ‘so what’s holding you back?’ The realization in that moment that everyone can be a part of this sport is an incredible feeling.”
Galib and Bryana, staples of the Atlanta drift community.
Behind the Scenes
Matt Martin, team manager of Iggnit Style Garage and one of the event organizers, reflected on the growth of Cosmic Drift.
A fully lit tunnel to the track make this event like no other for drivers.
“Cosmic has always been David’s passion project, and over the past three years we’ve helped turn it into reality. What makes it different is that it’s just as much driver-focused as spectator-focused. The lights, tunnel, and music give drivers something more to look forward to, making it spectacular rather than just seat time. This year, we had a sold-out paddock, hillside, and spectator areas—I’ve never seen anything like it.”
He also praised the community for keeping the event running smoothly:
“Driver spots sold out first, followed by Hillside and Paddock. After the event, we learned some people were parking and walking from Road Atlanta because there were no spots left. With 140 drivers, everything ran smoothly all day. Seeing the community come together to support David and the event was incredible. He’s always putting in the effort to make each Cosmic better than the last, and this year set a high bar.”
Matt Martin taking in the results of everyone’s hard work.
Fans Feel the Community
For spectators like Ivy Brooke, drifting is as much about the people as it is the cars.
“The community in itself is just one big happy family. I respect it. As someone who just watches and takes the occasional photo, it’s cool to see everyone having a good time and doing what they love to do,” she said.
Q&A: David Patterson on Building a Dream — Cosmic Drift 2025
You’ve always called Cosmic your “big passion project.” When did you first start envisioning turning a massive rave festival like Electric Daisy into a drift event?
“I’ve always been a huge concert-goer, especially of dance music. It came to me when I was standing on top of a racetrack’s rumble strip while watching a set by Kaskade in Vegas. I said to myself, ‘Sure, this is an amazing experience—but it would be insane to drive a race car through here in this style of environment.’ The idea came from there—but truthfully, I had no idea at the time it would even be doable, even at a fairly small scale. I think the hard part for me was trying to create something that was undeniably different in the car community, while not making it an exclusive experience. I wanted anybody to be able to come and enjoy it and make it accessible.”
David and Austin from Iggnit Style Garage sharing words about the spectacular turn-out before night fell.
The event sold out across the board and even caused a traffic backup that none of us realized was happening because we were having such a good time. Did you expect that kind of turnout?
“It’s always extremely hard to tell before the event what the true attendance is going to be—even with online ticket sales. Most people who came each year bought tickets the day of the event at the gate—so it’s always a pretty big gamble. I was absolutely astounded at the attendance this year though. Honestly, I could barely believe what I was seeing. I don’t remember the last time that venue was that packed. People were being turned away at the gate—which is a wild thing to think about. I’m just still so stoked that so many people were curious enough or excited enough to check out my wild event idea that seemed to resonate with them.”
What’s your reaction when you see how many new people discover drifting through Cosmic or your YouTube channel?
“During Cosmic Drift this year I asked many people where they were from, what they thought of the event, and their overall experience. The most shocking result was that a massive portion of people I talked to had never been to a track event or a drift event their entire lives—with Cosmic Drift being their first. I wanted Cosmic Drift to be friendly for drivers and spectators regardless of how much they knew about cars, car culture, and what it’s all about. It’s extremely rewarding to introduce people into the community and make a wacky world come to life they can be a part of—rather than just another day at a racetrack.”
What do you think sets the Atlanta/Lanier drift scene apart from others in the U.S.?
“The Atlanta scene has one thing a lot of other cities don’t have—the huge legacy in American drifting. Formula Drift coming to Road Atlanta in the 2000s was a massive part of the culture here. It’s an ever-evolving scene that always manages to keep going no matter the hardships. From the days of Turner Field, Import Alliance at Atlanta Motor Speedway, and of course Lanier—you’ll find passionate drivers everywhere. I think the crossover between road course racing and drifting is incredible as well. We’re insanely lucky to have the places to go enjoy our automotive hobby in this part of the U.S. Not to mention, the people are just awesome. Southern hospitality is 100% a real thing. Anybody is willing to get in the passenger seat of a newcomer and teach them all day long.”
What’s next for Cosmic Drift? Do you already have ideas for Year 4?
“With the recent ownership changes at Lanier—it’s a little bit of a gray area. I’d be open to trying it at other venues as well. I had even thought about possibly taking it on the road in the future, but nothing is set in stone. Either way, I have the Atlanta and Lanier drift community to thank for coming out to support my crazy event. At the end of the day, I couldn’t be more thankful.”
A Cosmic Sendoff to a Beloved Racetrack
With Cosmic Drift 2025 in the books, Lanier Raceway once again proved why it’s one of the top grassroots drifting venues in the Southeast—where passion, skill, and camaraderie collide under the glow of southern stars and, once a year, cosmic lights.
David Patterson (center) surrounded by everyone who helped make his dream a reality.
Photos Courtesy of Cory Self, @TracksidePerspective
Daughters feel like a princess and their fathers have a chance to be a part of the special moments
What began as a single father/daughter event in 2009 with 188 attendees has expanded to three dances over two evenings, bringing together daughters of all ages to enjoy an evening of dancing with their dads, father figures, uncles, or grandfathers.
This year, the dances will be held at the Braselton Civic Center in February 2023. According to David Williams, past President and Father/Daughter Dance Committee Chair “the three dances continue to draw record attendance from surrounding cities and counties”
David Williams believes “it’s just fun to watch the smiles come in and fun to watch the smiles as they go out, you feel like you have made a difference!”
The event includes catered light hors d’oeuvres, professional photography, and long-stem red roses presented after the last dance, creating what Williams describes as a “prom-like experience that will be a special memory that will last a lifetime.”
This year’s dance is set to take place on Feb. 2 and 3rd at the Braselton Civic Center.
Friday, Feb. 2, from 7 p.m. until 9 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 3 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
All proceeds from the dance are invested back into the community as with other Kiwanis Club of North Gwinnett fundraisers in the form of scholarships for area high school seniors, or other events that benefit children. Sponsorships are available and companies or corporations wishing to sponsor may contact David E. Williams.
Limited tickets are available, and William predicts a ‘sell-out attendance.’ He recommends getting your ticket early. Due to the limited ballroom capacity, only paying guests may attend.
The town of Braselton will celebrate Independence Day on Tuesday, July 4, with a patriotic parade, a festival, live music and, of course, a fireworks display.
Celebrate Braselton July 4th Festival and Fireworks, which will be held from 5 to 10 p.m., will include a concert featuring The Soul Purpose Band on the Town Green, child-friendly activities throughout the downtown Braselton area, food trucks and local dining and shopping experiences. Admission is free.
Event attendees are welcome to bring lawn chairs and blankets. Tents and umbrellas are not permitted on the Town Green.
Schedule of events
5 p.m. — Food trucks begin serving customers
6 to 6:30 p.m. — Patriotic parade along Ga. Highway 53
6:30 to 9:30 p.m. — The Sole Purpose Band performs
At dark — 20-minute fireworks display with viewing areas along Ga. Highway 53 in downtown Braselton and Hoschton
Event parking
Parking deck, 40 E. Lake Drive, Braselton
Free Chapel at Braselton TechCenter with a shuttle available from 5 to 9 p.m. (service ends before fireworks), 1001 Cherry Drive, Braselton
Municipal Complex, 4982 Ga. Highway 53, Braselton
Old West Jackson School Building, 4825 Ga. Highway 53, Hoschton
Event attendees are advised to not park on sidewalks or in front of residences as vehicles will be towed
