Peachtree Corners Magazine December/January 2025

5 Questions to Ask

When Choosing a School for Your Child

1. How does the school prepare students for their future?

GAC prepares students with rigorous academics, offering 29 AP courses and 8 world languages, alongside award-winning programs in athletics, arts, and STEM. Leadership opportunities, robust college counseling, hands-on learning, diverse travel experiences, and state-of-the-art learning environments equip students for success in college and beyond.

2. What are the school’s values and culture?

GAC’s Christian faith fosters a supportive culture for academic and relational growth. Engaged parents build community with one another through Bible studies, volunteering, family events, and on-campus activities like tennis. Our no-phone policy improves focus, relationships, and mental health.

3. What are the teachers’ qualifications and teaching methods?

GAC’s 100% Christian faculty, 81% of whom hold advanced degrees, build positive connections and provide individualized support through small class sizes and availability before and after school.

4. What innovative learning opportunities are available?

GAC embodies forward-thinking innovation through collaborative, modern learning environments and diverse learning modalities, including hybrid scheduling and GAC’s own AI tutor, TrekAI. An on-campus greenhouse and “floating classrooms” at Lake Lanier spark curiosity and build practical skills.

5. How reliable and consistent is the school’s leadership?

GAC has enjoyed stable leadership since its founding in 1968, with only three presidents in its history. As the current president, Dr. Scott Harsh leads with deep Christian faith and a commitment to excellence, fostering an innovative environment that ensures GAC remains a leader in education.

HOLIDAY CELEBRATION

Featuring a concert by Lydia Simonds

December 6

5:30 - 8:30 p.m. • Thrasher Park

CARRIAGE RIDES

December 6 - December 20

Every Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday

6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

Skin Alley, Behind 45 South Cafe

HISTORIC NORCROSS CHRISTMAS VILLAGE

December 7 • Downtown Norcross

PHOTOS WITH SANTA

December 11 - December 20

Every Wednesday & Friday

6:00 - 8:00 p.m. • 45 South Cafe

SCAN HERE FOR THE FULL LINEUP:

Peachtree Corners

PEACHTREE CORNERS MAGAZINE

EDITORIAL

EXECUTIVE EDITOR & PUBLISHER

RICO FIGLIOLINI

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

SHAWNE TAYLOR

EDITOR EMERITUS

KATHY DEAN

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT

RITA FIGLIOLINI

ADVERTISING

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

JULIE DAVIS julie@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

TUCKER DUKES tucker@mightyrockets.com

instagram.com/peachtreecornerslife facebook.com/peachtreecornerslife twitter.com/peachtreecrnrs www.pinterest.com/ PeachtreeCornersMagazine

PEACHTREECORNERS

PUBLISHED BY MIGHTY ROCKETS LLC.

P. O. BOX 923207 Peachtree Corners, GA 30010 678-438-5310 editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com

Peachtree Corners Magazine is published six times a year by Mighty Rockets LLC. Opinions expressed by the contributing writers and editors are not necessarily those of the publishers, editors or Peachtree Corners Magazine. The publisher will not accept responsibility for submitted materials that are lost or stolen. Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement it seems unfit for publication or does not fit in our guidelines.

DECEMBER 2024 / JANUARY 2025 issue

Volume 6 Number 36 ©2024 Peachtree Corners Magazine

The editors welcome submissions, event listings, achievements and photography. Please direct them to editor@livinginpeachtreecorners.com. This publication is independently and privately owned, and managedby Mighty Rockets LLC

RICO FIGLIOLINI

Publisher & Executive Editor

Rico Figliolini is a creative director and social media strategist, three-time magazine publisher and podcast host. He grew up in Brooklyn, New York and is a political junky, sci-fi and anime fan, and avid reader and movie binger.

RITA FIGLIOLINI

Editorial Consultant

Rita Figliolini has lived in PTC for 23 years with her husband and life partner, Rico Figliolini. Proud mom of 3 — Jason, Kinsey and Jack. Former Managing Editor of the original Inside Gwinnett, she’s now Advisor to PTC Magazine. Telling stories is in our blood!

JULIE DAVIS

Account Executive

Julie Davis is an accomplished sales rep with over 20 years of experience in the telecom industry. When not working or spending time with friends and family, Julie can be found melting glass, as she is an avid fused glass artist.

HARRY J. PINKNEY, JR

Graphic Designer

Harry J. Pinkney, Jr is an accomplished Graphic Designer with over 25 years of experience. A Philadelphia native who now calls Atlanta his home. He enjoys his dog, Chloeé, working out, movies, and running his own freelance graphic/ web design business.

GEORGE HUNTER

Photographer

George Hunter is an IT professional from Alaska by way of Texas. His primary hobby is photography, covering a wide range of subjects from pets to cosplay, sports to fashion. Volunteering and fostering dogs brings him much joy. George, his wife Lila and their rescued dogs have made their home in west Gwinnett for almost 20 years.

KRISTEN CORLEY

Writer

Kristen Corley is an Atlanta native with over a decade of experience in content creation. She lives in Historic Norcross with her family and writes “Young Norcross,” a weekly newsletter that focuses on building community and local engagement.

PEACHTREECORNERS

SHAWNE TAYLOR

Contributing Editor / Newsletter Editor

Shawne Taylor is an experienced writer/editor specializing in travel, lifestyle and arts & entertainment. In her spare time, she’s learning Japanese and enjoys reading, anime, music, gaming and K-dramas. She’s lived in PTC with her family since 2014.

ARLINDA SMITH BROADY

Senior Writer

Arlinda Smith Broady is of the Boomerang Generation of Blacks that moved back to the South after ancestors moved North. With 30 years of journalism experience, she’s worked in tiny newsrooms to major metropolitans. She brings professionalism, passion, pluck, and the desire to spread news.

KATHY DEAN

Editor Emeritus

Kathy Dean has been a writer and editor for over 20 years. Some of the publications she has contributed to are Atlanta Senior Life, Atlanta INtown, Transatlantic Journal and The Guide to Coweta and Fayette Counties.

PATRIZIA WINSPER

Writer

Patrizia hails from Toronto, Canada where she earned an Honors B.A. in French and Italian Studies at York University, and a B.Ed. at the University of Toronto. This trilingual former French teacher has called Georgia home since 1998. Catch her reporting about our vibrant city on the Peachtree Corners Network.

RAINA LOGAN

Podcast Production

Raina Logan is a highly accomplished audio engineer, music producer, and talented writer. With over a decade of entrepreneurial experience as the owner of an esteemed audio production company, Raina seamlessly merges her creative writing skills with her technical expertise, shaping unforgettable auditory journeys.

TRACEY RICE

Photographer

After a long career in global marketing for Fortune 500 companies like The Coca-Cola Company and Texas Instruments, Tracey earned a degree in Commercial Photography and now owns her own photography business. She specializes in portraits, events and real estate photography. She is the President of the Peachtree Corners Photography Club.

January/February 2025 | Deadline December 16

• Achieving Balance: The Best Spots for Fitness, Relaxation, and Renewal

• Stay Local, Play Big: Top Picks for Summer Camps in Your Area

February/March 2025 | Deadline January 16

• Discover, Learn, and Play: A Guide to Local Summer Camps

• Global Plates, Local Love: Diverse Eats Around the Corners

FIRST UP - EVENTS Events, Programs & Fun Things to Do

School Open Houses

Cornerstone Christian Academy

• Annual Open House — Saturday, January 11.

5295 Triangle Pkwy., Peachtree Corners cornerstonecougars.org, 770-441-9222 Register online.

Pinecrest Academy open House

• Open House (All School) — Sunday, January 26. 1 p.m.

• Peek into PreK and Kindergarten

— Thursday, April 24. 9:30 a.m. 955 Peachtree Pkwy., Cumming pinecrestacademy.org, 770-888-4477 Register online.

Christ the King

• Preschool Open House — Saturday, January 24. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. 5575 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners ctklutheran.org, 678-557-7563

For ages 12 months to kindergarten. To make an appointment, contact Director Samantha Carme at 770449-7217.

Greater Atlanta

Christian School

Admissions Fall Open House

• December 4, 2024: Lower School Open House (Pre-K-5th Grades)

• January 16, 2025: Upper School Open House (6th-12th Grades)

• January 30, 2025: Lower School Open House (Pre-K-5th Grades)

Sign up to attend at gac.org/visit.

Wesleyan School

• Rising 9th Grade Open House –December 5

• K-12 Family Open House –January 11

Wesleyan School

5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org, 770-448-7640

ONGOING

Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience

Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 10 a.m.-7:30 p.m.;

Saturday & holidays: 9:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m.; Sunday: 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Closed on Tuesdays.

Exhibition Hub, Atlanta Art Center

5660 Buford Hwy. NE, Doraville vangoghexpo.com/atlanta

Tickets: Adults (ages 13+), $39.90; children (4-12), $23.90; seniors (65+), students (13-26) and military, $33.90; VIP tickets and group or family bundles available.

Visitors of all ages are invited to step into Vincent van Gogh’s paintings in this touring immersive art exhibit. Van Gogh’s most compelling works are displayed as two-story projections filling 20,000 square feet. The sightand sound-experience lasts about 60 to 75 minutes.

Beebe and Clegg: Their Enduring

Photographic Legacy

Through December 31

Thursday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5 p.m.

Southeastern Railway Museum 3595 Buford Hwy., Duluth train-museum.org, 770-476-2013

Admission: Adults, $18; seniors and students, $15; children ages 2-12, $12 About the exhibit: With dramatic images and sweeping promotional strategies, Lucius Beebe — joined in 1941 by his life partner Charles Clegg — introduced railroad photography and the world of railroading to wide popular audiences. Together Beebe and Clegg created

Important Dates

DECEMBER

1 First Sunday of Advent

2 Cyber Monday

3 Giving Tuesday

6 Saint Nicholas Day

7 Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

21 Winter Solstice

24 Christmas Eve

25 Christmas Day

26 Chanukah begins

26 Kwanzaa begins

31 New Years Eve

JANUARY

1 New Years Day

20 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

20 Inauguration Day

more than 30 books on railroading and Western Americana.

Yielded Men

Fridays weekly. 7-8 a.m.

Moe’s Original Barbecue

5005 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 810, Peachtree Corners yieldedmen.org

Admission: free

Yielded Men (YM) is a weekly safe, small discussion group focused on building relationships and encouraging men in their walk with God. Each week the group addresses a specific issue that most men face in life. All are welcome.

December

Peachtree Corners

Photography Club Group Meet Up

Thursdays, December 12 and January 9. 6:45-8:15 p.m.

Atlanta Tech Park

107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners pcphotoclub.org

Admission: free

Photographers of all skill levels are welcomed; come early at 6:15 p.m. for social time.

Paul Duke STEM High School Art Market

Saturday, December 14. 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

Paul Duke STEM High School 5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross pauldukestem.org, 470-323-3600

Admission: free

Stop in at Paul Duke STEM High School’s Art Market and find unique items for your holiday shopping.

Local Theatre & School Performaces

The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays

December 12-22

Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 7:30; Sunday, 2 p.m.

Special matinee Saturday, December 21, 2 p.m. Lionheart Theatre 10 College St., Norcross lionhearttheatre.org, 404-919-4022

Tickets: Adults, $18; seniors and students, $16

About the show: In December 1936, Broadway star William Gillette, known for his leading role in the play Sherlock Holmes, has invited fellow cast members to his Connecticut castle for a weekend. When a guest is stabbed to death,

Gillette assumes the persona of Holmes to track down the killer. The danger and hilarity are nonstop in this whodunit set during the Christmas holidays.

James and the Giant Peach

December 12-14

Thursday and Friday, 2 p.m.; Saturday, 6 p.m.

Paul Duke STEM High School 5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross pauldukestem.org, 470-323-

Photo by Lucius Beebe, courtesy of the California State Railroad Museum

3600

Tickets: Adults, $12; students, $10. Purchase at https://gofan.co/app/ school/GA72652.

About the show: Based on Roald Dahl’s book, the play recounts the adventures of James and his insect friends on their journey across the ocean on a giant piece of fruit.

Disney’s Lion King JR.

December 14-15

Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre

1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross greateratlantachristian.org, 770243-2000

About the show: The African savannah comes to life on stage with this adaption of Disney’s classic musical.

PDS Band Winter Concert

Monday, December 16. 7 p.m.

Paul Duke STEM High School

5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross pauldukestem.org, 470-323-3600

Admission: free

The Paul Duke STEM High School Band performs in their winter concert.

PDS Orchestra

Winter Concert

Tuesday, December 17. 7 p.m.

Paul Duke STEM High School 5850 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross pauldukestem.org, 470-323-3600

Admission: free

The Paul Duke STEM High School Orchestra performs in their winter concert.

Skylight

January 17-25

Live Arts Theatre

Pleasant Hill Presbyterian Church 3700 Pleasant Hill Rd., Duluth liveartstheatre.org

Tickets: Adults, $20; seniors and students, $17; Live Arts Theatre members, $14

About the show: Kyra finds the son of her former lover at her apartment in a London slum. He hopes she will reconcile with his now widowed, father. Tom, a restless, self-made restaurant and hotel tycoon, arrives later that evening, unaware of his son’s visit. Kyra has since found a vocation teaching underprivileged children. Can they resurrect their relationship? This show is recommended for ages 16+ due to adult language and content. liveartstheatre.org

The 39 Steps

January 17-18

Greater Atlanta Christian School King’s Gate Theatre 1575 Indian Trail Rd., Norcross greateratlantachristian.org, 770-243-2000

About the show: Adapted from the 1915 novel and 1939 Alfred Hitchcock film, The 39 Steps is a parody play that centers on an innocent man who must clear his name after being mistakenly accused of a crime. The play is presented by the GAC High School drama department.

Miss Nelson Is Missing!

January 23-25

Norcross High School 5300 Spalding Dr., Norcross norcrosshigh.org, nhs-drama.com, 770-448-3674

About the show: When the too-nice teacher Miss Nelson disappears, she is replaced by the hard-as-nails, homework-overloading substitute teacher Viola Swamp. The kids realize how much they miss Miss Nelson and will do anything — including hire a private eye — to bring her back.

Mary Poppins

February 5-8

Wesleyan School Powell Theatre 5405 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners wesleyanschool.org, 770-448-7640

About the show: The Wolf Players present this play based on the Disney musical. Magical nanny Mary Poppins takes her charges, Jane and Michael Banks, on memorable adventures and teaches them valuable lessons. But the children aren’t the only ones who feel the profound effect of Mary Poppins.

ELIZABETH KAY PINDER,REALTOR®

Town Green Calendar

5140 Town Center Boulevard, Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersga.gov

Scan QR for Calendar ►

Holiday Glow Lighting and Performances

Thursday, December 5. 5:30-8 p.m.

Admission: free

There’ll be holiday enchantment with the annual festivities, including the Christmas tree and menorah lightings. The event features live performances and a variety of holiday activities for all ages. This year, the city is partnering with the Gwinnett County nonprofit Because One Matters, and will accept donations of clothing, personal care items, toys and books. Check the calendar for details.

Sports on the Screen

Select Saturdays.

Cheer on your favorite teams while you tailgate with fellow fans. Bring your own cooler or purchase food and drink from one of Town Center’s many restaurants.

Admission: free

• December 7 —

SEC Championship

• December 14 — Army vs. Navy

5155 Peachtree Parkway, Peachtree Corners theforumpeachtree.com/events

Scan QR for more information ►

Santa at the Forum

November 29December 24

Admission: free

Santa will set up shop on The North Plaza and be available for photos all season long. Check online for Santa’s schedule.

Toddler Time

Peachtree Corners Library Branch Calendar Highlights

5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners 30092 770-978-5154 | gwinnettpl.org

Tuesdays, December 3, 10, 17 and January 7, 14, 21. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Admission: free

For kids ages 2 and under, this program includes simple stories, fingerplays, rhymes, songs and movement activities to introduce story time in a fun way.

Preschool Storytime

Thursdays, December 5, 12, 19 and January 9, 16, 23. 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Admission: free

To guarantee time with him, book an appointment. Walk-ups will be accepted only if time allows.

Festive Flicks at the Forum

Tuesdays, December 3, 10, 17. 4-6 p.m.

Admission: free

Enjoy holiday movie classics in The Plaza every Tuesday leading up to Christmas. Please note that if the weather is inclement, the movie will be cancelled.

• December 3: Elf

• December 10: Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas

• December 17: The Santa Clause

Holly Jolly Hangout with Santa

Thursdays, December 5, 12 and 19. 4 and 5 p.m.

Tickets: $40; ticket price benefits nonprofit Corners Outreach

Hang out with Santa and enjoy cocoa, cookies and a classic holiday tale read by the Big Man himself. Kids are encouraged to share their lists and get a photo with him before he heads back to the North Pole.

Menorah Lighting

Sunday, December 29. 4-5 p.m.

Admission: free

The Forum and Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett presents a Chanukah celebration that features a Menorah lighting ceremony, family-friendly activities and entertainment.

The program, open to kids ages 3-5 and their caregivers, introduces story time to little learners through simple stories, fingerplay, rhymes, songs and movement activities.

READing Paws

Thursday, December 5 and January 2. 3:30-4:30 p.m.

Admission: free

Children ages 6-11 can practice their reading skills with trained therapy dogs. Please see a staff member to sign up early.

Chess Boards and Checker Crowns

Thursdays, December 5, 19 and January 9, 23. 6-7 p.m.

Admission: free

Learn how to play, learn more about and/or come enjoy the classic board games of chess and checkers. Ages 6 and up are welcome.

Homeschool Hangout:

The Science of Snowflakes

Thursday, December 12. 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Admission: free

It’s a monthly get-together for homeschooling families. This month is about the science of snowflakes. All supplies provided, but supplies are limited.

Let’s

Keep Moving with

Slow Flow Yoga!

Saturday, December 14. 11 a.m.-12 p.m.

Admission: free

Instructor Zainab Masood demonstrates the gentle movements of

slow yoga for ages 19 and up. This class is perfect for creating a space for peace and joy during the holidays.

Jigsaw Fun at the Library

Friday, January 3. 1 p.m.

Admission: free

Gather with fellow puzzle enthusiasts of all ages to collaborate, share tips and enjoy a relaxing atmosphere while piecing together colorful challenges. It’s a perfect activity for families, friends or anyone looking to unwind.

Healthy Snacks

Wednesday, January 8. 4 p.m.

Admission: free

Want to start eating healthier in the new year? Learn about the importance of making healthy eating choices and make your own healthy snack.

Older Adults Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Thursday, January 9. 1 p.m.

Admission: free

Join the conversation about healthy lifestyle, diet and exercise and how we can impact the health resolutions we make for 2025.

Start

the Year Right with Tutor.com

Wednesday, January 15. 4 p.m.

Admission: free

Start the new school semester with the library’s digital resource, Tutor. com.

Knitted Together

Wednesday, January 15. 6 p.m.

Admission: free

Join in knitting and crocheting while connecting with other community members. All skill levels are welcome.

Homeschool Hangout: Library Tour & Escape Room

Thursday, January 16. 11 a.m.

Admission: free, registration required A monthly get together for homeschooling families, Homeschool Hangout this month focuses on learning about the library and solving an Escape Room.

The Forum North Plaza

Fake Snow

Wednesday, January 22. 4 p.m.

Admission: free

Missed out on snow this winter? Make some snow foam using household ingredients.

Family Storytime

Wednesday, January 29. 5 p.m.

Admission: free

The program, open to kids ages 3-5 and their families, includes simple

Guitars for Vets

Mondays. 12-3 p.m.

Admission: free

stories, fingerplays, rhymes, songs and movement activities to introduce story time in a fun way.

Fires and Falls for Older Adults

Thursday, January 30. 1 p.m.

Admission: free Kick off the New Year with The Gwinnett Fire & Safety Department. They will present their highly interactive and instructive workshop on fall and fire safety for seniors.

GWINNETT COUNTY PARKS

Pinckneyville Park Community Center 4650 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Berkeley Lake

Open Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

GwinnettParks.com, 678-277-0920

This program helps Veterans cope with PTSD through music. Participants get 10 weeks of one-on-one lessons. When finished with lessons, participants receive a free guitar. To register, contact Cliff Meinhardt at 404-234-8040. Learn more at guitars4vets.org.

Bridge Act II

Fourth Monday of the month. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Admission: free

For more information, contact JoAnne Leisen at 571-330-4730.

Book Club

Last Tuesday of the month

Admission: free Join in on the reading fun.

Senior Bridge Club

Thursdays. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Admission: free

Experienced Bridge players ages 50 and up are invited to participate in this trick-taking card game using a standard 52-card deck. To register, contact Mary Fender at 678-357-6709 or maryrfender@yahoo.com.

Gwinnett Chess Club

Every other Saturday. 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.

Admission: free

Chess for all ages. All experiences are welcomed.

To register, contact Tom Emch at 770605-0429 or ibemch@charter.net.

Atlanta Hobby Robotics Club

Third Saturday of the month. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

All ages are welcome to share their robotics ideas.

To register contact Walter Burleson at 404-932-8108 or wlenbl@gmail. com.

Atlanta Gourd Patch

Second Saturday of the month. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Admission: free

Residents aged 18 and up are invited to apply their creative talents to natural gourds. Contact KMR01@aol.com for more info and the supply list. Call 678-2770920 for details.

New Experiences Await at This Season’s Walk Through Bethlehem

An annual must-see holiday event, Walk Through Bethlehem, presented by Simpsonwood United Methodist Church, will take place over three evenings, December 13–15.

With 1,200 luminaries, Simpsonwood Park is transformed into Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth. After being welcomed by live camels and a census taker, visitors are invited to interact with shopkeepers and witness a live nativity.

Visitors can also enjoy a fire with stories from shepherds, pet live animals and watch as wisemen bring gifts to baby Jesus.

Before your journey ends, enjoy a photo opportunity with a Roman Guard and hot chocolate and cookies.

Make plans to attend:

Friday, December 13 and Saturday December 14, from 7 to 9 p.m.

Sunday, December 15, from 6 to 8 p.m.

FREE admission; accepting canned food donations for Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries.

For more information, visit simpsonwoodumc.org/walk-through-bethlehem.

Robert D. Fowler Family YMCA

5600 W. Jones Bridge Rd., Peachtree Corners facebook.com/FowlerY/ | 770-246-9622

Active Older Adults Schedule

Coping with Grief & Loss Support Group

Mondays. 11 a.m. in the Mind/Body Studio.

Grief and loss difficult to face, but you don’t have to face them alone. This is a safe and caring environment.

For more information, contact ejgarrett@gmail.com.

Caregivers Group

Tuesdays. 11:45 a.m. in the Mind/Body Studio.

The YMCA’s weekly Caregivers Group provides a dedicated meeting space for caregivers to offer and receive emotional support. The group offers practical information while respecting confidentiality and encouraging camaraderie.

For more information, contact mcrawley@wans.net.

Lifelong Learners

Every other Friday. 12:15 p.m. in the Mind/Body Studio.

For ages 50 and up, Lifelong Learners offers seniors the chance to come together and enjoy guest speakers, local field trips and spirited cultural discussions. Held in the Senior Center.

For more information, contact AbigailS@ymcaatlanta.org.

Other senior activities include:

• Canasta — Mondays, 2 p.m. in the Admin office, second floor

• Dominoes — Thursdays, 10:45 a.m. in the Admin office, second floor

For more information, contact lorri504@gmail.com.

Norcross Gallery and Studios

116 Carlyle St., Norcross | norcrossgalleryandstudios.org, 770-840-9844 Check their website for costs and up to date information.

Exhibits

Norcross. Our City in Photos

November 14-December 7

Holiday Packages

December 12-January 4

Ongoing Sessions

Note: no sessions held the weeks of December 23 and 30.

Figure & Portrait Study Sessions

Tuesdays, 2-5 p.m.

Cost: $16 for members; $22 for non-members; package pricing available

Organizers: Lynda Ellis, lyndaellis@gmail.com; Anne Emerson Hall, annehallstudio@yahoo.com

Quick Start Ongoing Workshop Series

Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Cost: $40 monthly for members, $50 monthly for non-members

Ever have trouble starting a painting or fine drawing? Putting the first mark on the canvas or paper? Getting the concept, composition or design figured out? This ongoing core group helps develop skills for getting paintings or fine drawings started.

Organizers: Julian Tablada, Julian. Tablada@gmail.com; Larry Hall, larry.hall@yahoo.com

Evening Open Studio Wednesdays, 6-9 p.m.

Cost: free for members, $5 for non-members

Organizer: Kathy Collins, mkcollinsart@gmail.com

Daytime Open Studio

Thursdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: free for members, $5 for non-members

Organizer: Anne Labaire, labaireart@gmail.com

Working hand in hand with parents to provide exceptional pediatric oral healthcare!

DR. GIA S. GRANNUM BOARD-CERTIFIED PEDIATRIC DENTIST

‘Tis the Season: Your Guide to COMMUNITY

Family-friendly festivals, tree and menorah lightings, special holiday markets, New Year’s fun and more highlight the sights, sounds and joy of the season in December and January — perfect for gathering with loved ones and getting into the winter holiday spirit.

Santa at The Forum

The Forum at Peachtree Corners

November 29–December 24

Wednesdays–Sundays; various times

Tickets: $35–$40

Come meet Santa Claus at his North Pole-inspired cottage at The Forum’s North Plaza and get holiday photos (and memories) to cherish for a lifetime. Buy tickets online to guarantee your time with Santa. Walk-ups accepted only if time allows.

theforumpeachtree.com/events/ santa-at-the-forum

Holiday Services & Events

Unity Atlanta Church

December 1–January 5

Sundays 11:00 a.m.; and various times

Admission: FREE

Unity Atlanta Church presents its Christmas Season Message Series: Celebrating a Season of Hope and Harmony. All are invited to special holiday services to celebrate the true spirit of the season and rejoice in gifts given and received, as well as to a variety of holiday events that are scheduled throughout the month.

Sunday morning services are held in person in the sanctuary and virtually by livestream at unityatl. org/live-stream or facebook.com/ UnityAtlanta. Youth Sunday School is held at 11:00 a.m. for ages 5-18. Nursery service is available from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. unityatl.org/holiday2024

Holiday Glow Lighting and Concert

Peachtree Corners Town Green

December 5

5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Experience the magic of the season with the city’s annual Holiday Glow festivities on the Town Green. The all-ages celebration will feature live musical performances, trackless train rides, fun holiday activities and sparkling Christmas Tree and Menorah lightings. Complimentary hot chocolate will also be available.

This year, as part of the celebration, the city has partnered with Intuitive to support local charity organization, Because One Matters. The organization’s Wrapped in Love Closet initiative gathers new and like-new clothing, toiletries, toys and books for children in the foster care program. Guests who bring donations of needed items to the event may receive a numbered, limited edition Holiday Glow ornament.

peachtreecornersga.gov/Calendar. aspx

Holly Jolly Hangout with Santa

The Forum at Peachtree Corners

December 5, 12 and 19

4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.

Tickets: $40 (includes one adult + one child)

Hang out with Santa on The Plaza and enjoy cocoa, cookies, a holiday craft and a classic tale read by the Big Man himself. Kids are encouraged to share their Christmas lists and get a photo with him before he heads back to the North Pole. Space is limited and tickets are on sale now.

By Shawne Taylor

Holiday Celebration

Thrasher Park, Norcross December 6

5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Embrace the holiday spirit with Norcross’ annual holiday event. Enjoy festive treats, hot cocoa, Christmas carols, and other holiday surprises as well as a visit from the Grinch and Santa Claus. norcrossga.net/2271/holiday-celebration

Carriage Rides

Downtown Norcross December 6–20

6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Hop aboard for complimentary all-ages carriage rides, running Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays in December. Embark on a festive journey through historic downtown with magical lights and joyful jingles. Rides depart behind 45 South Cafe in Skin Alley. norcrossga.net/2270/carriage-rides

Deck the Hall

Downtown Duluth December 7

2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

face painting, photos with Santa, Christmas carolers and special appearances by Disney princesses. Then, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., hop on the free carriage rides for a magical journey through downtown. www.norcrossga.net/Calendar.aspx

Northeast Atlanta Ballet

Nutcracker Tea 2024

Lilburn School of Ballet

December 8

2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Children: $25 in advance; $30 at door

Parents: $12 in advance; $15 at door

Children can take photos and dance with cast members, enjoy treats and have fun with cookie decorating and crafts. Parents may drop off and pick up or stay to enjoy coffee and snacks and browse the boutique. northeastatlantaballet.org/event/ the-nutcracker-tea

A Festival of Carols: Annual Christmas Cantata

Christ the King Lutheran Church, Peachtree Corners

December 8 at 3:30 p.m.

Admission: FREE

theforumpeachtree.com/events/ holly-jolly-hangout-with-santa

Meet up with family and friends in downtown Duluth for a joyful Whoville-inspired jamboree of merriment and cheer. Experience a real snow playground and giant snow slide, enjoy free crafts, shop the holiday market and meet Santa. Food trucks and live music round out the festivities. duluthga.net/events

Enjoy an uplifting afternoon with a Christmas cantata and holiday carols as well as light refreshments in the church’s atrium. ctklutheran.org

Movie Mondays — A Christmas Carol

Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center

December 9

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Historic Norcross Christmas Village

Downtown Norcross December 7

All-day event

Admission: FREE

The Historic Norcross Business Association is hosting the Historic Norcross Christmas Village again this year. Festive activities include a Lozano Farms petting zoo,

Jim Carey plays Scrooge and Gary Oldman is Bob Cratchit in this 2009 computer-animated film version of the Christmas classic in which miserly old Ebenezer Scrooge is visited by three Christmas spirits on Christmas Eve. Rated PG. Running time: 1 hour 36 minutes. norcrossga.net/2067/Movie-Mondays

Holiday Fun and Festivities

Celebrate the Winter Solstice

Norcross Public Library

December 11

11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Learn about the winter solstice and its cultural and scientific significance while creating a solstice box to celebrate the day. Ages 19+. gwinnettpl.libnet.info/ event/11783694

Photos with Santa

This beloved holiday ballet tells the story of Clara and the Nutcracker Prince as they battle the Mouse King and travel through the Land of Snowflakes and Kingdom of Sweets to meet the Sugar Plum Fairy.

gassouthdistrict.com/events

St. Nicholas Experience & Market

Mary Our Queen Catholic Church, Peachtree Corners

December 14

9:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

bit.ly/SantasWorkshopOSN Holiday Comforts

Norcross Public Library December 16

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Wear your comfy pjs and bring your favorite stuffed animal to learn about the different ways people around the world celebrate the winter holidays. You’ll create a few simple dishes and enjoy stories and sweets. All ages. gwinnettpl.libnet.info/ event/11783662

Menorah Lighting at The Forum

The Forum at Peachtree Corners December 29

4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Join the Chabad Enrichment Center of Gwinnett to celebrate Chanukah with a special menorah lighting ceremony, family-friendly activities and entertainment on The Plaza.

theforumpeachtree.com/events/ menorah-lighting-2

45 South Café in Norcross Wednesdays and Fridays, December 11–20

6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Capture the enchantment of the season with a visit from the jolly old man himself. Share your holiday wishes and snap a cheerful photo with Santa. norcrossga.net/2269/Photos-With-Santa

The Game’s Afoot or Holmes for the Holidays

Lionheart Theatre in Norcross Thursday–Sunday, December 12–22

7:30 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. showtimes Tickets: $18; seniors and students, $16

About the show: In December 1936, Broadway star William Gillette, known for his leading role in the play Sherlock Holmes, has invited fellow cast members to his Connecticut castle for a weekend of revelry. When a guest is stabbed to death, Gillette assumes the persona of Holmes to track down the killer. The danger and hilarity are nonstop in this whodunit set during the Christmas holidays. lionhearttheatre.org/buy-tickets-2/

Gwinnett Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker 2024

Gas South Theater December 13–22

Various showtimes Tickets: $25–$65

Admission: FREE

Everyone is invited to come out and meet St. Nicholas and reserve a photo session with the saint who started it all. Guests can also shop local merchants, enjoy treats and coloring and support community fundraising efforts at this all-ages event.

maryourqueen.com

Cookies & Cocoa with Santa

Duluth Festival Center

December 14

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Santa makes his final stop in Duluth on December 14 for cookies and cocoa. Free cookies and crafts are available while supplies last, and kids can have a professional photo taken with Santa while visiting with him. Plan to arrive early as time is limited.

duluthga.net/business_detail_T5_ R61.php

Movie Mondays — Journey to Bethlehem

Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center December 23

1:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Admission: FREE

The whole family will enjoy this live-action Christmas musical that weaves classic Christmas songs with humor, faith and pop songs in the story of Mary and Joseph and the birth of Jesus. Rated PG. Running time: 1 hour 38 minutes. norcrossga.net/2067/Movie-Mondays

Frosty Fun: Noon Year’s Eve

Parson’s Alley in downtown Duluth December 31

11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Join your favorite host, Jessica from It’s All Good, and ring in the New Year at noon. Experience an afternoon filled with live entertainment, fun crafts and plenty of photo opportunities. It’s a frosty New Year celebration that promises to be a fantastic time for the whole family!

duluthga.net/calendar.php

Santa’s Workshop

OneStop Norcross

December 14

10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

Admission: $2 for Gwinnett residents; $4 for non-residents

Kids 12 and under are invited to join Santa for holiday fun with arts and crafts, story time, snacks, hot cocoa and a photo.

Frosty Fun: Axe Throwing and Ice Carving

Parsons Alley in downtown Duluth December 29

3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Head over to Parsons Alley in Duluth to witness the artistry of live ice carving. Watch as skilled artisans transform blocks of ice into a stunning creation right before your eyes. Once the carving is complete, don’t miss the chance to snap some photos with the beautiful sculpture. While you’re there, you can also enjoy an exciting afternoon of axe throwing and live music. Test your skills and have a blast with friends as you take aim and throw. It’s an action-packed day of skill and fun. duluthga.net/calendar.php

Frosty Fun: Frosty Finale

Downtown Duluth January 3 and 4

12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Admission: FREE

Celebrate the final days of winter break at Duluth’s Frosty Fun: Finale. Enjoy free face painting, fun crafts and a variety of other children’s activities, as well as inflatable slides and an exciting obstacle course that will keep the kids entertained. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the holiday season and make lasting memories before school starts again. duluthga.net/calendar.php ■

Faith Community Holiday Events and Services

December is full of holiday fun and worship with Christmas, Chanukah and Kwanzaa celebrations. Here is a sampling of the many events in the area.

Beth Shalom

5303 Winters Chapel Rd., Dunwoody bethshalom.net, 770-399-5300

• Sisterhood Game Night: Latkes and Vodka — Saturday, December 14. 7 p.m. Cost: $5; RSVP by Dec. 10.

There’ll be games, though you can bring your own. Friends, spouses and adult children are welcome. Light refreshments, vodka and latkes are provided.

• Family Chanukah Party — Sunday, December 15. 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Cost: $8 per adult; $5 per child; no charge for Gilner Religious School students. RSVP by Dec. 10. The party features crafts, lunch, a holiday music performance and more. https://www.bethshalom.net

Christ the King

Lutheran Church

5575 Peachtree Pkwy., Peachtree Corners ctklutheran.org, 770-449-1211

Admission: free

• Christmas Cantata: What Sweeter Music: A Festival of Carols — Sunday, December 8. 3:30 p.m. The annual family-friendly Christmas Cantata features familiar favorites and more.

• Christmas Eve Worship Services — Tuesday, December 24. Family service at 4 p.m., traditional services at 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. ctklutheran.org

The Father’s House Church

6060 Spalding Dr., Peachtree Corners thefathershouseatl.org, 770-840-0888

Admission: free

• Christmas Programs — Sundays, December 1, 8, 15 and 22. 10:30 a.m. Celebrate the birth of the King at The Father’s House Church every Sunday in December. The reason for the season is honored with special drama and dance programs each Sunday, culminating with the annual Christmas special on December 22.

• Watchnight Service — Tuesday, December 31. 9:30 p.m. Bring in the New Year with the Lord at “The House.”

Mary Our Queen

6260 The Corners Pkwy., Peachtree Corners maryourqueen.com, 770-416-0002, Admission: free

• Advent Penance Service — Thursday, December 5. 7 p.m.

• Rorate Caeli Mass — Saturday, December 7. 6:30 a.m.

• Pancake Breakfast with Saint Nicholas — Sunday, December 8. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

• Lessons and Carols — Friday, December 13. 7 p.m.

• Saint Nicholas Photo Experience and Market — Saturday, December 14. 9:30 a.m.4 p.m. Meet St. Nicholas and reserve a photo session. Shop local merchants, enjoy treats

and coloring and support community fundraising efforts.

• Christmas Eve Masses — Tuesday, December 24. 4 p.m., 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. The Children’s Christmas Play begins 3:45 p.m. before the 4 p.m. Mass.

• Christmas Day Mass — Wednesday, December 25. 10 a.m.

Mount Carmel United Methodist Church

5100 S. Old Peachtree Rd., Peachtree Corners mtcarmel-umc.org, 770-449-4498

Admission: free

• Adult Choir Christmas Program — Sunday, December 8. 10 a.m. Nursery and Sunday School provided for children.

• The Longest Night Service

— Wednesday, December 11. 6 p.m. Childcare provided.

• The Children’s Christmas Pageant — Sunday, December 15. 10 a.m. The pageant is followed by the Downhome Holiday which includes lunch, children’s activities and a visit from Santa Claus with photo opportunities.

• Kid Friendly Christmas Eve Service — Tuesday, December 24. 5 p.m. Childcare provided for ages 5 and under.

Mary Our Queen, December 2023

Peachtree Corners

Baptist Church

4480 Peachtree Corners Cir., Peachtree Corners pcbchurch.org, 770-448-1313

Admission: free, except for Senior Luncheon

• Senior Adult Christmas Luncheon — Wednesday, December 4. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Cost: $10 per person; register online. Senior adults are invited for a Christmas celebration. It kicks off with lunch and wraps up with a sing-along of favorite Christmas carols.

• Students Christmas Party

— Wednesday, December 11. 6-8 p.m. PCBC students celebrate the season with friends, games and holiday fun. There’ll be a White Elephant exchange and Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest.

• Family Christmas Eve Service

— Tuesday, December 24. 4 p.m.

Perimeter Church

9500 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek perimeter.org, 678-405-2000

Admission: free

• Tree Lighting and Winterfest

— Sunday, December 8. 2-6 p.m.

The family-friendly event includes a Christmas carol sing-along, outdoor activities for kids and treat trucks.

• Young Adults Christmas Party — Sunday, December 15. 7-8:30 p.m. Meetup at Break Coffee Roasters in Lawrenceville. Bring a friend and an ornament for the ornament exchange.

• Christmas Eve Services — Tuesday, December 24. 1, 3, 5 and 7 p.m. Childcare for children, infants to 5 years, available for all services except 7 p.m.

Simpsonwood United Methodist Church 4500 Jones Bridge Cir., Peachtree Corners simpsonwoodumc.org, 770-441-2181

Admission: free

• Walk Through Bethlehem — Friday and Saturday, December 13 and 14. 7-9 p.m.; Sunday, December 15. 6-8 p.m. The annual revival of the village of Bethlehem on the night of Jesus’ birth takes place at Simpsonwood Park, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle in Peachtree Corners. Families can stroll through the candlelit outdoor nativity scene, stop in shops and encounter shepherds, wise men, angels and live animals.

• Longest Night Service — Sunday, December 22. 7 p.m.

• Children’s Christmas Eve Service — Tuesday, December 24. 3 p.m.

• Christmas Eve Services — Tuesday, December 24. 5 and 7 p.m.

Unity Atlanta Church 3597 Parkway Lane, Peachtree Corners

UnityAtl.org, 770-441-0585

Admission: free

• Christmas Season Message Series: Celebrating a Season of Hope and Harmony — December 1-5. All are invited to special holiday services to celebrate the true spirit of the season and rejoice in gifts given and received, as well as to a variety of holiday events that are scheduled throughout the month.

• Sunday Morning Services are held in person in the sanctuary and virtually by livestream at unityatl. org/live-stream or facebook.com/ UnityAtlanta.

• Youth Sunday School is held at 11 a.m. for ages 5-18. Nursery service is available from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Visit unityatl.org/holiday2024 for a full list of events with details. ■

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Hope in the Shadows

Local law firm shines light on sex trafficking at area budget hotels.

The heinous crime of human sex trafficking may appear to many as something that happens in other places to people with whom we have nothing in common. But local law firm Andersen, Tate & Carr (ATC) set a precedent by settling a civil suit earlier this

year against metro area locations of a national budget hotel chain that did nothing to keep the activity out of its facilities or aid the victims who were in obvious distress.

Although the sum awarded wasn’t disclosed, Jonathan Tonge, one of the lead lawyers, said it was enough to help the victims start over and get their lives on track. He shared his journey and the challenges faced in this landmark case. He discussed the complexities of trafficking cases, includ -

ing the lengthy legal process, the emotional toll on survivors and the fact that it touches just about every corner of the globe.

“I’ve had cases at a hotel in Peachtree Corners. I’ve had cases at hotels in Norcross. I’ve had cases at hotels on Jimmy Carter. I’ve had cases on Peachtree Industrial that are close to [my office],” he said. “This stuff is happening at these places you’re driving by every day. It may be to lesser degrees than [the case we settled], but it is happening around here.”

In describing how he first got involved with the litigation, Tonge got a little emotional.

“It’s all really sad stories,” he said with a hitch in his voice. “I’ll cry if I talk about it.”

Long road to law school

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Photos by George Hunter

Tonge may be a honey badger when it comes to standing up to tough opposition, but he’s kind-hearted and concerned about the well-being of his clients. He explained that he took the long way to getting into law and an even longer time to get the victims their day in court.

Top: Lexi Rivera, Rory Weeks Seated: Giovanna Menchaca, Jonathan Tonge, Jennifer Webster

“I guess it was super unlikely that I would be a lawyer,” he said. “I went back to law school in my mid-30s — a little bit later than most people.”

Before that, he had a journalism degree and worked for some small newspapers in Madison and Winder. He also did some freelance writing.

“I played in bands for 10 or 15 years, playing bass and guitar and writing songs and stuff,” he said. “I went to Athens as an undergrad … and I never wanted to leave.”

After that, he opened a bookstore in Madison. That lasted for about five years.

He’d like to open another bookstore someday, but mega-retailer Amazon changed the game for momand-pops.

He did public relations for the Georgia Wildlife Federation , and from there he decided to go to law school.

“It seems like there’s a lot of lawyers that do that sort of thing. We would lobby at the capitol … and I would see lawyers there talking about bills, and I thought I could do that also,” he said. “It kind of got in my head, and I thought I was going to do some kind of public interest type thing. … I’m not a guy that’s going to go work at a huge firm. I knew that was not what I was interested in.”

In law school, he decided his research paper would be about slave labor in the seafood industry. He’d heard about the practice from his days with the Wildlife Federation.

“Georgia shrimpers are at a competitive disadvantage because of shrimp from Southeast Asia,” he said. “There’s a lot of human trafficking in that.”

Tonge was trying to figure out how to do a lawsuit related to that, and he came across a law called the Trafficking Victim Protection Act. But to build a case for those kinds of victims he’d have to go through many layers of supply chains, laws from different countries and a lot of other components before the issue even reached American shores.

“It’s real complicated and it actually wouldn’t work,” he said. “I was looking at what the law said and I remember thinking that this law was more suited to sex trafficking victims suing hotels.”

The lightbulb moment prompted him to look for similar lawsuits, but there were none.

“That was probably 2014,” he said. “There was one lawsuit in the whole country in Massachusetts from a law that had been passed in 2008. It was against a real crappy hotel. And that was it. Nobody had ever filed another case in six years of this law.”

Setting a legal precedent

From his days on the road with different bands, Tonge knew about the seedy underbelly of some low-cost hotels.

“I’ve stayed in a lot of crappy hotels, and it’s kind of obvious [what’s going on there],” he said. “You just know it immediately when you see a place — and your guess is probably right. These places have a reputation for a reason.”

Once Tonge had the idea, it became an obsession.

“I was thinking this would be part of a solution to a big problem and nobody’s looking at it, everybody’s ignoring it,” he said. “From then on, I just told people that that was what I was going to do. I was going to sue hotels for sex traffic convictions.”

He devoted his second year of law school to the pursuit and found support among colleagues. When he graduated, he began working at ATC because he thought it would be the kind of firm that would allow him to work on the sex trafficking cases. But he left ATC to clerk for a federal judge and then went to a larger firm that he thought would move more quickly on the cases. That didn’t work out, so he went back to ATC and began work-

ing with Patrick McDonough to get the process underway.

Although he’d been working with McDonough since graduating from law school in 2016, it took the pair two and a half years once he returned to the firm to get into high gear.

“We met with anybody who would meet with us — nonprofit people, police officers, politicians, city officials, DFACS, anybody,” he said. “We would just tell people we think that trafficking victims have an opportunity to get compensated for their injury by suing hotels.”

Since nobody had ever done that, many were skeptical. But the cause built up momentum, and by the time a trial date was set, the firm had 11 clients.

“It’s like a small world of people who have been trafficked in Atlanta, and they’re getting help from the same kind of organizations,” he said. “The first thing you do in a lawsuit [is look for] witnesses.”

Victims come forward

After they got their first client on board, three more came along.

It was talking about that first client — Kristen — that caught Tonge’s emotions off guard.

“She passed away,” he said softly. “They used drugs to control her. They beat her also. They did all types of things. But she had a drug addiction issue, and she relapsed last fall.”

It was about two months before she would have gotten the opportunity to share her story that she succumbed to her demons.

“Her case had lasted over four years. It went up to the Court of Appeals — it was a really historic case — the first case in Georgia history,” he said. “It didn’t end well for her, but at least her kids have trust funds.”

Although Tonge couldn’t give more details about Kristen, he said all of his clients were American-born. Immigrants are also in danger of being trafficked, but they are much harder to reach.

“All of my clients are generally from Atlanta,” he said. “Kristen grew up in Johns Creek.”

The trial began in June and eight days in, Red Roof Inn agreed to an undisclosed settlement with the victims. The trial may have been cut short, but the testimony shed light on something that had festered in the dark for a long time. There are now hundreds of cases in the works across the country using the same methodology.

How can you help?

Although it’s impossible to know exactly how many people are being trafficked in the world, in this country or even in Georgia, the lawsuit brought about by ATC is a powerful weapon to help eradicate the abomination.

“I agree that there are some numbers out there on the internet that are wildly overblown. You know it’s not true that a million girls in Atlanta are being trafficked every five minutes — that’s not even mathematically possible,” Tonge said.

The nature of the crime makes it hard to catch the perpetrators. They take victims across state lines and prey upon the vulnerable — runaways, people without homes, people without hope, those who already have substance abuse problems and/ or mental health issues.

Tonge said he doesn’t advise anyone to get directly involved if they suspect trafficking, but they shouldn’t turn a blind eye, either.

“Call the police,” he said. “The worst thing that happens is that you were wrong.” ■

If you suspect human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline toll free at (888) 373-7888

To report suspected human trafficking in Georgia, call the statewide, 24-hour Human Trafficking Hotline at (866) 363-4842

If you have reason to believe that a victim is in imminent danger, call 911 or your local law enforcement agency to file a report.

For more information on how to get help for both national and foreign-born victims of human trafficking, visit endhtga.org.

Jonathan Tonge

Faces of Peachtree

This year’s Faces of Peachtree Corners list includes students, entrepreneurs, community volunteers, leaders and everyday people who we think make our city a better place. Through hard work, kindness and a commitment to their neighbors and the community at large, each one of them is a shining example of the heart and community-minded spirit that makes Peachtree Corners an incredible place to live and work.

Analy Navarro Founder of BA HERO

When Analy Navarro’s oldest daughter, Julia, was diagnosed with an extremely rare liver disease called biliary atresia (BA) at 4 months old, she did the most remarkable thing a human can do; she saved Julia’s life.

Immediately following the diagnosis, the family was added to the pediatric organ waiting list in hopes of finding a donor.

“We never received ‘the call’ that patients dream about,” said Navarro, “but we had a backup plan. At only 7 months old, Julia received her life-saving liver transplant from me, her living donor.”

By giving a portion of her own liver in a successful transplant procedure, Navarro’s daughter is now thriving — enjoying time with her family and friends, jumping around at the Town Green playground with her younger sister, Elena, and dancing, baking and making art at their Peachtree Corners home.

Seeing the need to save more lives, Navarro founded the non-profit organization, BA HERO, with the goal of offering hope, education and research funds that would benefit others facing biliary atresia.

Today, BA HERO hosts fundraising events in the community and works with neonatal nephrologists at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta to identify and

fund critical studies in an effort to better understand how and why biliary atresia presents in newborns.

“Having a child born with a rare disease … was life changing and then becoming part of the transplant community was also a transformative experience,” Navarro shared. “I like to think that it’s situations like this that bring the best out in us by giving us a unique perspective that we can use for the good of others.”

The family shares their story to help raise awareness about biliary atresia and organ donation but, most importantly, to inspire hope. They want other families in the rare disease community to know that even though it’s terrifying to hear those words, “there is hope and there are many of us out here.”

“Analy is a beautiful, kind and generous soul who embodies the vibrant spirit of Peachtree Corners,” said James Taylor, one of the people who nominated Navarro for this list. “She IS the change we all want to see in this world.”

While those that know her are quick to share that Navarro is an inspiration, she has an inspiration of her own. “Every day, I’m inspired by Julia, her journey and her love for others. She has touched so many lives and I hope that [people reading this profile] will be [among] them and decide to become organ donors in honor of her.”

By Shawne Taylor

Peachtree Corners

Isiah and LaShandia

Hill Teachers at Wesleyan School

Isiah and LaShandia Hill are not only happily married, they also work together, teaching and serving as advisors at Wesleyan School.

The couple make their home in Dacula, but don’t mind the 40-minute commute to be part of the Wesleyan — and Peachtree Corners — community.

Isiah has worked at Wesleyan for eight years as an honors chemistry teacher, sprints coach for the varsity track team, assistant dean of student life, and the high school diversity coordinator.

He was Wesleyan’s Star Teacher in 2022, served on the Professional Standards Commission for the State of Georgia under Governor Nathan Deal and was part of the Georgia Independent School Association (GISA) Emerging Leader Institute in 2023.

“In every role he undertakes — whether as a coach, teacher, administrator or colleague — Isiah exemplifies dedication and excellence,” said Joseph Koch, Wesleyan’s high school principal. “His unwavering commitment to nurturing both the academic and spiritual growth of students has profoundly shaped our community.”

LaShandia joined the Wesleyan faculty six years ago and teaches middle school STEM, as well as robotics and computer science. She is also the head sponsor for the middle school’s Technology Students Association (TSA) and the VEX robotics teams.

Like her husband, she is an award-winning (and beloved) instructor and mentor at the school. She was named Middle School TSA Georgia Advisor of the Year in 2023 and 2024 and won the Tommy Pitchford Inspirational Teacher of the Year award this year.

“LaShandia is relentless in her pursuit of excellence and in challenging her students at a high level,” said Joseph Antonio, Wesleyan’s middle school

principal. “She has spent countless hours during her planning periods and even over school breaks to make sure she has done everything in her power to build a great STEM program at Wesleyan.”

During her time at the school, she has helped grow the program to a place where their middle school STEM classes are full and has led the after-school TSA team to multiple top 10 finishes on a national level.

“She’s an exceptional teacher and an even more exceptional person who cares about promoting the interests of others way above herself,” Antonio added.

Both LaShandia and Isiah were awarded the distinction of being Master Teachers in 2021 and they continue to participate in the TIED Together program at Wesleyan’s lower school where they spend time reading and sharing with students about being positive members of the community.

Isiah shared that he enjoys using his background in research science to elevate his teaching and expose students to the various fields of chemistry and how chemistry impacts every aspect of their daily lives.

LaShandia has said that she “enjoys exposing students to opportunities in STEM through engaging activities and experiences to encourage them to be future leaders and innovators in STEM-related fields.”

The Hills’ positive impact resonates throughout the school, making it a place of learning, faith and mutual respect, all of which fulfill the Wesleyan mission to be a Christian school of academic excellence, challenging and nurturing the mind, body and spirit.

Check out our 21 Under 21 Southwest Gwinnett magazine cover story too. Scan the QR code when you’re ready.

Bridget Salter Student at Greater Atlanta Christian School

Bridget Salter, Peachtree Corners resident and senior at Greater Atlanta Christian School, has built a high school career characterized by leadership, hard work and genuine enthusiasm.

A committed athlete, she was selected by her coaches for the IDEALS Leadership Training Program, representing GAC among student-athletes across Gwinnett County. This role not only enhanced her leadership and communication skills but also showed her the importance of serving and supporting others.

“I’m glad I’ve cheered other Spartans on as they’ve enjoyed their top moments,” she reflected. “I’ve learned to not only push myself but to celebrate my friends’ wins too.”

As a student with dyslexia and dysgraphia, Bridget has learned to overcome obstacles that other students may not have faced. But, rather than viewing her challenges as hindrances, she dedicated herself to her studies, developing a detailed calendar and weekly planning routine to stay on top of both schoolwork and extracurricular activities.

Her commitment to seizing every opportunity is evident in her involvement across GAC and within her community. She has demonstrated this by attending missions trips, joining various sports teams, showing incredible school spirit and holding ministry leadership positions.

As a senior, Bridget embraces her role in GAC’s community, using her leadership abilities to uplift those around her, especially younger students.

On the field, she co-captains both GAC’s varsity lacrosse team and the school’s new varsity flag football team, where she has been pivotal in helping get the sport up and running. Off the field, she promotes school spirit through GAC’s Red Zone spirit organization and connects with younger students through the Young Life ministry.

“I really love being part of Young Life Club,” she said, “connecting with the younger students at my school and creating relationships with them.”

As she prepares to close this chapter of high school, it’s clear that Bridget will carry her enthusiasm, leadership abilities, strong work ethic and more out into the world and onto all that is in front of her.

Samantha Shelton Founder

and CEO, Furkids

Samantha Shelton founded Furkids Animal Rescue and Shelters in 2002, after finding a hungry cat and three kittens in the front yard of her Atlanta home. Shelton set out to find homes for the cat family on her own, and after successfully placing the cats (adopting one of the kittens herself), she had the idea to continue the work by starting her own rescue organization.

“This was the profound moment that changed my life and the lives of thousands of animals and the people who love them,” Shelton shared on the organization’s website.

Furkids started as a foster home network, but in 2005, after years of success, Shelton opened the largest no-kill cat shelter in Georgia, a mile outside the Peachtree Corners city limits. That was followed a year later by the opening of the organization’s first thrift store in Peachtree Corners, which had started as a fundraising yard sale in Shelton’s back yard.

This store was the first of five retail shops that benefit Furkids’ mission and now bring in a third of the shelter’s annual operating budget. The Peachtree Corners store alone employs seven staff members and utilizes dozens of volunteers, providing the community a place to shop while supporting the organization’s work.

Shelton was nominated for Faces of Peachtree Corners by her daughter, Emily, who shared that her mom is deserving of recognition “because of the many contributions she has made to our Peachtree Corners community and throughout the state of Georgia.”

“She makes our community a better place to live, work and volunteer,” Emily added.

Settling in Peachtree Corners in 2008, when she was pregnant with Emily, Shelton was excited to find a community where she could raise her daughter as a single mom among loving neighbors and friends and where they could thrive as a family.

She’s had a positive impact on the city ever since.

“Every day, she makes sacrifices to save and care for thousands of homeless [dogs and cats] … and to

support the people who love and cherish them,” said Emily. “She is happily known as the ‘pet lady’ in our neighborhood and is often called to help lost animals find their way back home.”

In addition to the work with Furkids, Shelton has also volunteered as the secretary of the Peachtree Corners Swim and Racquet Club and served as a community volunteer and cookie mom for six years for the Girl Scouts’ Peachtree Corners Troop #15331.

Sue Storck General Manager of The Forum

Sue Storck has served as general manager of The Forum since 2019, leading the property through ownership changes and a major redevelopment. During this time, she has become deeply ingrained in the Peachtree Corners community and constantly looks for ways to be involved.

“When I started at The Forum, I immediately fell in love with the property and city,” Storck shared. “I met early on with the city manager and staff to begin building relationships. By getting to know the players who were shaping the city, I was able to understand their vision for growth and how The Forum plays a role in the city’s overall identity. This really helped create a foundation for the strong bond that’s been formed between our teams.”

Storck quickly realized that the elected officials, city team and local residents are passionate about the tight-knit community they’ve built and that they’re all working toward the same goal of making the city a desirable destination for visitors as well as the people who live here. She also recognized that her work at The Forum could play a part in that.

“A key piece of our redevelopment is focused on creating more synergy between The Forum and Town Center,” she said, “The goal is to form a true downtown area that offers access to cool shopping, dining and entertainment in one connected location, keeping people from having to drive to nearby cities for the experiences they’re craving and boosting local economic development.”

“I’ve loved being involved in The Forum’s retrofit and watching my ‘baby’ grow up,” she added. “It’s been fun to see our neighbors enjoy the new amenities and support our tenants — both old and new.”

On top of the responsibilities of her day job, Storck also shared that she is battling cancer. Diagnosed with Stage 1 triple-negative breast cancer in mid-September, she started chemo treatments in October and will continue through mid-March 2025. She’s met this challenge with the same determination and positive attitude she’s known for in her professional life, and simply stated, “I will beat this and come out stronger for it.”

David Apetrei

As The Forum — and the Peachtree Corners community — continues to evolve and grow, Storck is happy to be part of it.

“I love the small-town vibe and getting to walk the property, stop and talk to our neighbors and listen to what they have to say. It’s such a wonderful feeling being in a place that brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate special moments. We [at The Forum] are so incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received from city council and staff, as well as the community at large, all of whom make what I do worthwhile.”

Graduate of Norcross High School, Currently at West Point

David Apetrei, the eldest son of Stefan and Simona Apetrei of Peachtree Corners, grew up here with his family. He’s a former student of Norcross High School, where he graduated with honors and an International Baccalaureate Diploma in 2023.

After graduation, Apetrei entered the United States Military Academy at West Point, New York — one of only ten Gwinnett students to accept an appointment to one of the nation’s military service academies that year.

During high school, Apetrei was a member of the JROTC program, where he served as the Battalion Command Sergeant Major. A strong athlete, he was also on Norcross High School’s varsity wrestling team. And, he was actively involved in Scouting for years, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout prior to graduation.

In addition to academics, JROTC, Scouting and sports, Apetrei has also always been committed to giving back to the Peachtree Corners community. Much of his ongoing service included volunteering at local Veterans Day events and assisting older veterans. But he also helped make and deliver sandwiches to homeless shelters and volunteered regularly to clean and help out at his church whenever he was needed.

His strong work ethic, friendly outgoing personality and drive to have a positive impact on his community was — and is — an inspiration to everyone who know him.

Today, Apetrei is a sophomore at West Point. When he graduates in 2026, he will be commissioned as a lieutenant and will serve for at least five years in the U.S. Army.

Jill Tew Author

Jill Tew was born and raised just minutes from Peachtree Corners in the Dunwoody/Sandy Springs area. After growing up there, she went on to graduate from an Ivy League school and enjoyed a successful career in business, technology and education. But, in 2020, during the first year of the pandemic, she felt called to do some soul-searching to figure out what a truly fulfilling future would look like for herself and her family.

The answer was a major pivot: Tew and her husband moved from Denver, where they’d been living for nine years, back home to the north Atlanta area to be closer to Jill’s mother. During the house-hunting process, they fell in love with Peachtree Corners immediately, and were lucky to find a home in Amberfield.

At the same time, Tew’s professional interests were also shifting. She’d begun taking her side hobby of writing more seriously over the course of the pandemic, and by the end of 2021, she had her very first book deal with Penguin Random House.

Her debut novel, The Dividing Sky, came out on October 8, 2024 from Joy Revolution, an imprint of Penguin Random House overseen by New York Times Bestselling authors Nicola Yoon and David Yoon.

Since its release, The Dividing Sky has received critical acclaim, earning highly-coveted starred reviews from Kirkus, Publishers Weekly and School Library Journal, who have compared the novel to the works of Octavia Butler. Publishers Weekly also named it one of the best books of 2024.

Tew now has other books in the works. In April 2025, Disney Books will publish her first middle grade novel, Kaya Morgan’s Crowning Achievement, about a Black girl growing up in suburban Atlanta.

Of all of the many tasks associated with being a professional author, Tew shared that visiting schools has by far been her favorite. She’s enjoyed connecting with educators and students alike in the Gwinnett County Public School district, encouraging students to pursue their own creative passions.

“I’m thrilled to live in Peachtree Corners,” she said, “and bring north Atlanta to young readers’ shelves through some of my stories.”

Ethan James

Student at Greater Atlanta Christian School

Ethan James, Peachtree Corners resident and a junior at Greater Atlanta Christian School, stands out for his achievements, resilience and leadership. A dedicated athlete, Ethan has qualified multiple times for the Southeastern Sectionals Swim Championships and has represented both his club and high school teams at the state level in swimming.

As a valuable member of the GAC football team, he’s also playing a crucial role in preparing the Spartans for a playoff run. Academically, even with the focus and time commitment required to compete in multiple sports, Ethan is a consistent honor roll student and an active Beta Club member.

To give back to his community and share what he’s learned both in the water and on the field, Ethan enjoys mentoring younger athletes — teaching swim lessons at GAC’s summer camp and refereeing youth flag football this fall.

“Working with younger athletes is incredibly rewarding,” he shared, as he enjoys helping them grow, fostering excitement for sports and modeling good sportsmanship.

In early 2024, Ethan faced a major setback when a hip flexor strain led to a three-month recovery period.

“It was tough to be out, but I focused on small steps,” he reflected, and was grateful for the support of GAC’s athletic trainers, strength coaches and team coaches.

This experience reinforced his commitment to his goals: potentially competing in collegiate sports and studying business.

Ethan credits GAC for broadening his perspective through leadership programs like Young Life and impactful experiences on the football team, particularly Coach Hardy’s “Spartan For Life” sessions.

“These experiences have shaped me for life,” he said.

With a solid foundation in academics, sports and Christian leadership, Ethan is prepared to carry forward the values he’s learned from his school — and from giving back to the community — as he pursues his future goals.

Chrissy Strohmeyer and Gabrielle Mills

Co-founders of Sourced.

Mother and daughter team, Chrissy Strohmeyer and Gabrielle Mills, are the co-founders of the Peachtree Corners-based small business, Sourced. The duo launched the company in 2016, offering fractional, back-office services such as marketing, HR, talent acquisition, accounting and administrative support to the Peachtree Corners community as well as to companies across the country.

“We wanted to help business owners have a better life, with more balance … and have a team,” said Mills, the company’s president.

Though originally unsure of the exact form their business would take, they knew they wanted to keep the company in Gwinnett, and Peachtree Corners, particularly, offered a centralized proximity to Atlanta and surrounding cities.

They also knew they wanted to have a positive impact and give back to the community. So, from the beginning, they’ve been committed to dedicating time and money to various charities and donating 10% of the business’ profits every quarter.

Sourced. team members come together each year to nominate charities close to their hearts, and from those nominations, the leadership team selects up to three to support. In 2024, Sourced. supported two worthy causes, including one local to Gwinnett County — The Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries. In addition to the two organizations, Sourced. also provides in-kind services to a local non-profit.

That philanthropic spirit extends beyond professional endeavors. Strohmeyer, a former Gwinnett County foster parent of 11 years and the CEO of Sourced., has adopted three children and actively serves on boards supporting adoptive and foster families.

Mills, a new mother to two babies, uses her public speaking platform to inspire other women and mothers in business. She is involved in several local Chambers of Commerce, including the Gwinnett Chamber, and participates in various events each year. She has been invited to speak at local events on multiple occasions for companies who are looking for guidance on growth, outsourcing and scaling their business.

Mills and her husband, Derick, bought her first home and moved to Peachtree Corners in 2018. They were drawn to the emerging community, especially with the expansion of The Forum, and the community of young families in the city. The proximity to the business — already located in Peachtree Corners — was a bonus, as well.

Since starting their lives here, the Mills have welcomed two children to the world and enjoy many of the local shops and amenities around the city, including the Town Center playground, which is a favorite.

While Strohmeyer doesn’t currently reside in Peachtree Corners, she does own real estate here that she rents out to one of her other daughters.

“I really love Peachtree Corners,” Mills shared. “I would love to continue to raise my family here and stay as long as possible … Even my friends are starting to see just how awesome [the city] is and want to move here, which would be amazing.”

“I’d love to live in Peachtree Corners as well, although [it’s] not currently possible,” said Strohmeyer. “But I do love to support local businesses personally and professionally when I can. I love seeing the economic growth that is happening here. It’s just a great place to be.”

Elizabeth Kay Pinder

Real Estate Agent

Elizabeth Pinder is an Atlanta native who has lived in Peachtree Corners with her family for 27 years. After graduating from UNC Greensboro with a BA in English, she had a successful five-year career in the publishing industry before making the decision to homeschool her sons. Their education became her focus for 26 years as her husband, Howard, worked as an electrical engineer.

As her boys were growing up, Pinder worked with the local YMCA to create a homeschool P.E. class and recruited other area homeschoolers to participate; created a year-long tech study course for her youngest that included books, films, physical science kits and online exploration (he’s now a student at GA Tech, getting a degree in computer engineering); and handled the daily responsibilities that go into homeschooling three growing boys through to graduation.

When her youngest began preparing to head to college, Pinder was ready for her next chapter and knew she wanted a meaningful way to spend her time.

“I decided to pursue my real estate license,” she said,” because I wanted to be out and about in our city, interacting with a variety of people, and I’d always had an interest in the real estate industry in Atlanta.”

So, she signed up for an online pre-license class in 2020 and took her final real estate exam in January 2021.

“I was as surprised as anyone that I stepped into a new career at 54,” Pinder shared. “I thought I would have a rough time adjusting to being back in the workforce after the 26 years I spent homeschooling my sons. But the opposite turned out to be true.”

In fact, she said that skills she developed while leading her children through their education — negotiation, creativity, research, problem-solving and positivity — have been the ones she relies on daily as a real estate professional.

Today, she’s an award-winning agent, having been a member of Harry Norman’s elite Success Circle for the last 3 years and in the top 10 producers of her Atlanta Perimeter office in 2023. She also serves on the Harry Norman, REALTORS® Impact Council.

In addition to her new-found career, Pinder volunteers as president of her neighborhood’s HOA, using her strong work ethic and positive attitude to help organize community events throughout the year that provide opportunities for neighbors to enrich friendships and strengthen connections.

Jarell Oshodi

Deputy Chief Privacy Officer at CDC

Peachtree Corners resident and cybersecurity expert, Jarell Oshodi, embodies the innovative and community-focused spirit that PTC represents — in both her professional and personal life.

As deputy chief privacy officer at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, she plays a critical role in protecting the privacy of millions.

Her work there — ensuring the security of personal information — aligns perfectly with Peachtree Corners’ vision as a tech-forward and privacy-conscious ‘smart city.’

Oshodi is also a best-selling author, having co-written “Securing Our Future: Embracing the Brilliance and Resilience of Black Women in Cybersecurity.” And she has plans to write more in the future. She’s particularly interested in writing and publishing books that will help kids understand cyber awareness and online safety best practices.

A mother of two boys and supportive wife to her husband, Akinwande (who was recognized on our 2022 Faces of Peachtree Corners list), Oshodi is dedicated to her family and the community and demonstrates that in a variety of important ways.

She serves as a mentor on the board of the Black Girls in Cyber (BGiC) Foundation, where she helps women advance their careers in cybersecurity, an industry where representation is crucial. Her efforts through the foundation have helped numerous women break barriers and thrive in a male-dominated field, advancing diversity in tech.

Oshodi also partners with schools and youth organizations, such as Jack and Jill of America, Sandtown Middle School and the Cobb County Bar Association, to teach cyber safety and awareness to children.

As residents of Peachtree Corners for the last four-

and-a-half years, Oshodi and her family are happy to be part of the city. “I love the sense of community [here],” she shared, “[as well as] the parks and outdoor areas for my kids and the proximity to Atlanta.”

Madeline Dean Austin

Student at Greater Atlanta Christian School

Peachtree Corners resident, Madeline Austin, a junior at Greater Atlanta Christian School (GAC), has made the most of her time both at school and within her community.

As a freshman, she was chosen to act as the student guide for GAC’s virtual tour, putting her theater background to use in a new setting and gaining experience in working with a professional film crew.

That same year, she also stepped into a leadership role at Simpsonwood United Methodist Church as a confirmation student leader (or ‘X-Con’). And her leadership journey continued as she became co-captain of both the National Beta Club and the girls cross country team at GAC. She has now actively participat-

ed in each since ninth grade.

A committed athlete, Madeline has faced unexpected hurdles. Diagnosed with RED-S (Relative Energy Deficiency in Sports), a condition affecting endurance athletes, she realized that athletic performance is about more than race times. Runners with RED-S lack the necessary energy to improve times no matter how hard they train.

“My success comes not from my times, but from my perseverance and my contributions as a teammate,” she shared, crediting her coaches and teammates with keeping her motivated.

Looking forward, Madeline plans to pursue a future in medicine, inspired by her journey as an athlete, guidance from her school’s sports trainers and GAC’s rigorous academic program.

“I have learned so much about the importance of my health and how to take care of myself thanks to the sports medicine trainers at my school and my primary care doctor,” said Madeline. “In turn, I want to help other athletes reach their goals in a healthy way.”

With support from math teachers like GAC’s Mr. Washington and Mr. Beasley, she has excelled in advanced math courses during high school — fueling her curiosity and determination. Madeline’s overall experiences at GAC, both academically and athletically, have shaped her into a thoughtful, service-oriented leader who is prepared to contribute meaningfully to her community and beyond.

Max Morrison Owner of Georgia Peach Movers

Though he lives in neighboring Johns Creek, Max Morrison is deeply connected to Peachtree Corners. His mother lives here, his children attend Cornerstone Christian Academy and his company, Georgia Peach Movers is located in the city as well.

“The commute is perfect for him,” said his wife, Tiffany. “When he takes the kids to school, he goes directly to work after. Our whole life basically revolves around Peachtree Corners.”

As founder and owner of the award-winning moving company, Morrison takes pride in the community and in helping others. In fact, it was his strong work ethic and passion for giving back that led him to establish Georgia Peach Movers in 2015. Through hard work and dedication, he transformed his vision into a successful business that not only provides reliable moving services but also prioritizes customer satisfaction.

Under his leadership, the company has grown significantly and garnered multiple awards for exceptional service, including Best of Gwinnett, Best of Peachtree Corners, Best of Johns Creek and Best of Georgia.

Additionally, the company’s — and Morrison’s — reputation has earned them recurring clients, in and around the city, who trust him to handle their moves

with care. He was recently awarded a contract with the Atlanta Public School System to handle the relocation of all of their school facilities.

One thing that sets Morrison’s company apart is that he chooses to donate a meal to a food-insecure family after every move. Through Feeding America, he makes a financial donation to help the organization distribute meals through their network of food banks across the country.

This initiative allows Morrison’s clients to be part of something meaningful by simply hiring Georgia Peach Movers for their moving needs, knowing that it will contribute to a larger mission to end hunger.

The idea came about when he started the company. “He wanted to have a purpose,” explained Tiffany.

Beyond the professional accolades, Morrison is deeply committed to being a devoted husband, a loving father and a loyal friend.

One thing that Morrison and Tiffany appreciate about Peachtree Corners is that “it is very family oriented.” They like that the city is home to great parks and green spaces.

“And we love the restaurants at The Forum and Town Center,” they added. “The area’s commitment to innovation and community development make it an exciting and welcoming place.”

Dr. Clinton Bothwell and Dr. Janet Bentley-Ewers

Chief of Staff and Director of Creative Arts at The Father’s House Church

Dr. Clinton Bothwell and Dr. Janet Bentley-Ewers are community advocates not only for The Father’s House Church (where he serves as chief of staff and she as director of creative arts), but also for all of the Peachtree Corners community.

They regularly seek to foster partnerships, alliances and relationships, both professionally and personally, that assist those who live in and around the area.

Though they are residents of the nearby communities of Johns Creek and Duluth, the two have worked together at The Fathers House and within the city of Peachtree Corners for six years.

The Peachtree Corners Fall Festival, the church’s Community Resources Back to School event and its annual Harvest Festival are just three of the special programs they are actively involved with.

“As leaders at The Father’s House, we are deeply

connected to this wonderful community,” said Dr. Bentley-Ewers. “We coordinated an event [in PTC] over the summer, bringing together other neighborhood nonprofits and resources to support underserved populations in the area. And we coordinate the annual TFH HarvestFest in October as a fun, family-outreach opportunity. Last year’s turnout was over 500 and we anticipate more of the same for next year.”

In addition to their work and outreach through the church, Dr. Bothwell and Dr. Bentley-Ewers are both active members of the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce — another way they can connect and serve the community.

As members of SWGC, they’ve become familiar with local officials as well as the issues that concern residents of Peachtree Corners and surrounding

areas.

“The Father’s House Church has been part of Peachtree Corners for over twelve years,” said Dr. Bentley-Ewers. “About five years ago, we decided to deepen our engagement with the local community and saw the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber as an excellent platform to connect with other business leaders, local officials and non-profits.”

During a recent chamber non-profit meeting, they met Captain Mesa of the City Marshal’s Office. Dr. Bentley-Ewers shared that she and Dr. Bothwell had been discussing ways to expand their community outreach, and Captain Mesa’s vision to introduce the new office to the community aligned perfectly with their mission.

They collaborated with Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries and other partners, including Walgreens and the American Red Cross, to host a successful event with over 250 attendees. With such a successful start, they now plan to make it an annual event and expand its reach to include even more community partners.

As they look to the future, Dr. Bentley-Ewers, Dr. Bothwell and other members of the church’s leadership team hope to continue to be a resource for servicing people within the community with food, supplies and most importantly, prayer.

“Peachtree Corners is strategically located and offers a diverse community, an open door for entertainment, worship and community building,” said Dr. Bentley-Ewers. “This aligns perfectly with the vision of The Father’s House to be a spiritual beacon and a resource for the community.”

Dr. Shannon Self-Brown

Distinguished Professor at Georgia State University

A Peachtree Corners resident for over 10 years, Dr. Shannon Self-Brown is a distinguished professor at Georgia State University as well as a research mentor for students at Paul Duke STEM High School. At GSU, she manages an intensive research program in prevention science that has led to multimillion dollar awards from federal agencies. She has also published more than 100 peer-reviewed articles that contribute significantly to prevention science.

But the work Dr. Self-Brown is most proud of is her engagement within the community.

As a mentor at Paul Duke STEM, she has worked with students completing their AP research course on topics including ‘how child abuse and foster care is associated with delinquent behavior’ and ‘how trauma impacts educational outcomes among youth.’

She first became involved with Paul Duke STEM when her son began attending the school four years ago.

“Early on, I had the opportunity to meet with an incredible teacher at the school, Dr. Bookal, who leads the AP research seminar. She told me that many of her students were interested in conducting psychology projects, but she hadn’t been able to find mentors in that discipline.”

Dr. Self-Brown offered to serve in the role, and since then has supported several students in completing their research projects.

“This work has been one of the most wonderful experiences of my career,” she said. “The students have been highly motivated to learn about psychological and public health research. Their ideas, compassion and commitment fill me with so much hope for this next generation of adults.”

The Self-Brown family settled in Peachtree Corners because they were impressed with the public schools here. They also had a strong friend group in the area that they regularly camped with (the Peachtree Corners Camper Crew), so they were excited to live closer to them. The final factor was that they loved the swim and tennis options in the city.

“Our son was a serious tennis player growing up and Peachtree Corners offered great tennis academy options,” she said.

These days, Dr. Self-Brown has a list of things she loves about the city. “I love the family-friendly community,” she said, “and getting together with friends to watch college football. I enjoy the outdoor activities, including playing pickleball, hiking at Simpsonwood and kayaking on the Chattahoochee. And I appreciate the variety of restaurants and the great shopping at The Forum.”

TJ Dixon GAC Middle School Principal Lindsay Schwartz

As middle school principal at Greater Atlanta Christian School, TJ Dixon has spent nearly two decades shaping students’ lives through education, coaching and leadership. Since moving to Peachtree Corners seven years ago, the Dixon family has become a vital part of the community, enjoying local traditions from friendly cornhole league competitions to the annual “Light Up the Corners” event. The Dixons say they appreciate the area’s unique blend of small-town warmth and big-city convenience.

Though a seasoned educator and coach, Dixon didn’t initially envision moving into administration. Encouragement from colleagues and a deep commitment to impacting students’ lives ultimately led him to accept the role of principal in 2020.

Starting his tenure amid COVID-19, Dixon recalled, “I had to figure out how to build community and support students while we were all six feet apart.”

Now in his fifth year, Dixon has established an environment where middle school students are known, connected and able to thrive academically, socially

and spiritually. His goal is to personally know each student and to help them “remember middle school as a positive experience.”

“Middle school years can be tough,” he elaborated, “and I want kids to leave here with great memories and the skills to positively impact their communities.”

Dixon is passionate about fostering service-oriented leaders, regularly organizing mission trips and service projects to encourage students to think beyond themselves. Last year alone, GAC Middle School students participated in eight mission trips across the country. “If they leave here just being able to put others before themselves, the rest will take care of itself,” he said.

A recent policy update at GAC — requiring Yondr pouches to eliminate phone use during school hours — reflects Dixon’s commitment to fostering a focused and engaging environment.

“I think we’re building kids that you would want as your next-door neighbors in Peachtree Corners,” Dixon explained. “They are children who know how to put their phones down, engage meaningfully with those around them and contribute positively to their communities.” He believes that instilling these values early on will create a ripple effect beyond the school, ultimately strengthening the broader community.

Alongside his administrative role, Dixon coaches middle school football as offensive coordinator, varsity girls’ flag football and varsity girls’ lacrosse, often coaching one or more of his five children each season. He deeply values family involvement and building community through education.

Founder and CEO of LSCC

Peachtree Corners resident and business owner, Lindsay Schwartz, is a passionate advocate for the PTC community, building both her life and her new company here.

With a background in creative agencies, she took a full-time director role with local company, Music Matters Productions in 2020. But, after several years there, her boss encouraged her to launch her own agency, doing what she did for them for other companies as well.

In 2023, Lindsay Schwartz Consulting + Creative (affectionately known as LSCC) was born. Since then, the agency has grown from a solo operation to a fulltime team of five, working with clients across a variety of industries.

Specializing in high-impact creative solutions, Schwartz’s — and LSCC’s — mission is to help businesses find their voice, build meaningful brands and connect authentically with their audience. And, although her current roster includes businesses from around the world, her connection to the PTC community is strong.

“My husband and I moved to Peachtree Corners in 2019, and I established my business [here] in 2023,” said Schwartz. “Before starting the business, the company I worked for full time was also based in Peachtree Corners. And many of the clients I work with now (including my old place of employment) are based in Peachtree Corners as well.”

Schwartz said she and her husband knew nothing about the area when they purchased their home, but “the property value was unbeatable, and it was the closest suburb to the perimeter.” Since settling in the city, they’ve fallen in love with the area.

“The growth, development and investment in the community has been amazing to watch and be a part

of, and we absolutely love the proximity to everything we could need,” she said. “Tech Park, in particular, is a crown jewel and something to really be proud of.”

In addition to growing her business, Schwartz actively participates in community initiatives, engaging with several local organizations and giving back to the place she calls home.

“We have deep connections to the folks here who have been helpful in the transition to full-time entrepreneurship,” she said. “Having the ability to be a small part of this thriving professional ecosystem is wonderful.”

“We are huge advocates for PTC and intend to stay here indefinitely,” she continued. “I hope that one day LSCC will have an even larger economic impact on the area and be a point of pride for the community.”

15% Athletic Teams

66

State Championships of Graduates Signed to Play College Sports in the last 5 Years

Jennifer Bonacci

Jennifer Julius Teacher at Cornerstone Christian Academy

Jennifer Julius has lived in and taught in Peachtree Corners for over 30 years, having relocated to the city from Maryland in 1991. She shared that she and her husband originally chose this area because her parents were here, and they wanted to live near them. But they’ve stayed for three decades because they love the community.

Julius was first hired at Simpson Elementary in 1993 where she taught several different grade levels, was a gifted teacher and served as technology coordinator. She also helped start the school’s student council in its first year and then, in the third year, started a student-run school supply store.

She is currently in her eighth year at Cornerstone Christian Academy, teaching middle school science classes as well as a woodshop elective. She came to Cornerstone in 2017 as a 5th grade integrated science and 6th grade earth science teacher as well as teaching a technology elective.

“I love the supportive caring environment that we have here [at Cornerstone],” she said. “You are part of a team of parents and teachers who value developing their children’s faith and academics and finding ways to enable students to serve others in

Assistant Finance Director, City of Peachtree Corners

Originally from Stuart, Florida, Jennifer Bonacci moved to Atlanta in 1991 to attend Oglethorpe University. After graduation, she went to work as an accountant at Georgia Pacific and also worked as a part-time youth minister at Mary Our Queen Catholic Church, where she met her husband, Rich.

The couple began looking for a home that allowed her to commute to her job downtown while Rich commuted to his job in the Perimeter area. Peachtree Corners was the perfect solution.

“My husband grew up in Peachtree Station and graduated from Norcross High School,” Bonacci said, “so he was familiar with the area and the neighborhoods. We bought our house in Peachtree Station in January 2001.”

Over the next 25 years, Bonacci and her husband settled into their home and raised four children. Twins Victoria and Anthony graduated from Norcross High School in 2021. Christina graduated from NHS last year. And youngest, Alyssa, is currently a freshman there.

“As our family grew, the community grew,” said Bonacci. “Our kids spent hours riding their bikes to their friends’ houses and to the neighborhood pool. They played football in the cul-de-sac and tennis at the swim tennis club. Peachtree Corners was and continues to be a wonderful place to raise a family.”

Bonacci started working at the City of Peachtree Corners almost a year ago and has already made a big impression.

“Jennifer is one of those people … who doesn’t seek attention but is toiling behind the scenes to make Peachtree Corners a better place,” said City Councilman Alex Wright.

He shared that Bonacci was the one who intro-

and around the community.”

In addition to her work, Julius is actively involved in her church, Christ the King Lutheran, where she volunteers in the sound booth, creates playlists for their traditional and contemporary services and assists with grounds clean up and beautification projects, often inviting her students to get involved as well.

Of her life here in Peachtree Corners, she said that she loves that “when I go anywhere, I will run into current and former students and their parents as well as friends” and that Town Center and The Forum have made the city a fun community to live and work in.

“My husband and I enjoy going to the festivals, car shows and visiting the Town Center area for tasty food. We enjoy early morning walks to Manhattan Bagel for breakfast. I have done Light Up the Corners a few times. And one of our favorite leisure activities is kayaking down the Chattahoochee from the park on 141 to a take-out that’s nestled in the back of our neighborhood.”

“When we first moved here there was only a BP Gas Station on the corner of Medlock Bridge Road and 141,” she continued, “the rest was mostly farmland or forest. I like that I don’t have to go far now to do things or help others. The longer I live here the more places I find that need volunteers to help those in need, and I want to help.”

duced the idea of building the Peachtree Corners playground at Town Center. She is also part of the organizing committee that plans and executes the Peachtree Corners Decathlon, and volunteers with the Peachtree Corners Veterans Association as treasurer and helping with events.

Bonacci has also long been active in the community in other ways: as manager of the Peachtree Station swim team; Girl Scout troop leader; fitness instructor at the Fowler YMCA; and as co-director for the PTC

Memorial Day Challenge.

“As a resident, I’m concerned with all the happenings within and around the city. As an employee, I enjoy helping to make a difference in the decisions … [that] guide the city,” Bonacci said. “I enjoy watching how the community has grown and getting to know the younger families in the area. We look out for each other, share advice on raising families and learn from one another how to appreciate our differences as well as our similarities.” ■

Local Ophthalmologist Builds on Family’s Legacy of Care

Not everyone can say the inspiration for their life’s work is in their own home, but local ophthalmologist and retina specialist, Dr. Rishi Singhal, credits his father as his role model for opening his own practice in Peachtree Corners.

“I grew up in the Peachtree Corners area, so this is my home,” he said. “My dad is an internal medicine physician, and he started Suburban Medical Center in Peachtree Corners in 2001. I had quite the model to follow in terms of a local physician starting his own practice really geared toward good, honest patient care. That’s something that I’ve tried to emulate in my career.”

Dr. Sunit Singhal received his medical degree from the University College of Medical Sciences in New Delhi, India in 1988 and came to the U.S. to further his medical training at Harlem Hospital Center in New York. He has since expanded his medical center with the addition of Suburban Med Spa in the adjacent facility.

From graduation to medical school

The younger Dr. Singhal graduated from Greater Atlanta Christian School in 2009 and still keeps in touch with teachers there.

“I actually had a few of my teachers attend the opening ceremony for my office,” he said. “It’s 15 years later, and they still remember me. We still have mutual respect. … I can’t speak more highly of how GAC influenced my life with teachers, classmates and instilling moral values.”

After high school, Singhal attended George Washington University for undergrad and medical school.

“They had a combined seven-year medical program,” he said. “You try to walk in open-minded, and it seems like every medical student changes their desired [specialty] every week. One week I wanted to be an orthopedic surgeon, one week a cardiologist.”

Singhal said it wasn’t until his third year, when he began rotating through the different specialties, that he had a chance to see ophthalmology up close.

“That’s when you really get an understanding of this profession. And again, some of why I chose my field is purely the mentors,” he said. “I had some very influential ophthalmology faculty in medical school who took me under their wings, provided direction in clinical research projects and involved me in the operating room as much as safely possible. I really credit them for spurring my fascination with ophthalmology.”

He added that even though the eyes are such small organs, once you really understand and appreciate the intricacies, you realize how much is possible medically and surgically.

“Unfortunately, sight is one of those things that, as I’ve seen from patients the hard way, you don’t appreciate until it’s at risk. And then, suddenly, it’s the most valuable thing in the world,” he said. “Obviously, it’s part of your daily life. And then, when an accident or medical condition puts your vision at risk, you realize how delicate the eyes are.”

Innovations and advances in treatment

Although many may consider ophthalmology as a very narrow, limited field, it’s actually very broad, Singhal said.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Dr. Rishi Singhal recently started his own practice, Suburban Retina Associates, following in his father’s footsteps. He emphasized the importance of mentorship in his career choice, particularly in ophthalmology, and highlighted the field’s rapid advancements in technology and treatments.

“In a given week, I’m doing comprehensive examinations in clinic, eye injections in our procedure rooms, performing retinal lasers and completing surgeries in the operating room,” he said. “The way ophthalmology is practiced today versus even 30 years ago is dramatically different. The field is just speeding ahead so rapidly with new advances in treatment. It really caters to people who are excited by technology and innovation.”

Dr. Rishi Singhal

He added that there are new medications for conditions that would have blinded someone a few decades ago.

“It’s exciting because I know that I am just in the very beginning of my career. The things that I’m telling people right now are not curable will change. Ten years from now, I’ll be telling people, we have options A, B and C. We can fix this problem. It makes for a very exciting career,” he said.

Post-residency fellowship and practice

Dr. Singhal finished his ophthalmology residency at Penn State in Hershey, Pennsylvania followed by a surgical retina fellowship at The Ohio State University.

“After you finish residency, you have to decide if you want to practice general ophthalmology or specialize. Do I want to practice glaucoma, pediatrics or, in my case, medical and surgical retina?” he said. “What really catered to me about surgical retina is the complexity of diseases and unique treatment modalities available. Every patient I see who has a severe problem is kind of an interesting challenge. And my goal always is to help people see as best they can.”

He said he has a sort of armamentarium of medications, lasers and surgical options to choose from.

“My job is to work with the patient and figure out exactly how I can help them. What is the best thing I can do to make them see as best as possible for as long as possible?” he said. “It makes for a very exciting career. By working together with patients and their primary care doctors and even other ophthalmologists, we’ve given patients lifelong vision that they thought they had lost.”

Dr. Singhal said success isn’t just about science.

“These are patients in front of you who are very nervous and sometimes very desperate. And, if you can help someone go from that state to a successful outcome, that’s the best feeling in the world.”

Treating people not conditions

Dr. Singhal can’t emphasize enough that he treats people — not conditions. He met some of his most memorable patients in the middle of his residency.

“The most concerning circumstances are patients who are monocular, which means they’ve lost their other eye’s vision for whatever reason, whether it’s glaucoma, retinal detachment or prior injury,” he said. “One of the many instances that really spurred me toward surgical retina is

when we had a patient who was monocular and had a retinal detachment in their good eye.”

When the patient’s one good eye is at risk, that can be a nightmare.

“A patient who’s at least seeing from one eye can still have a functional lifestyle and do normal activity. When that’s compromised, you’re looking at a really devastating, life-changing scenario,” he said. “[We] calmly walked the patient through what we were going to do in surgery … and sure enough, the patient had an excellent outcome.”

Dr. Singhal said what spoke to him about that circumstance was that someone on the verge of losing basic functions — driving and living independently — was saved. Because of quick action, attention to detail, excellent surgical ability and patient care, the team was able to help save his vision.

“And to this day, he’s still able to drive, live independently, work and read,” he said. “Those are the kinds of things that make my career all the more fulfilling.”

Paying it forward

That kind of experience also drove home the point that physicians must be mentors and pay their knowledge and experience forward.

“One thing about the medical establishment is there’s definitely a push towards physicians being involved in education — whether it’s high school or medical school students. Being involved in education, being involved in research, being involved in community service [is important],” he said. “As a surgical retina fellow, we were always involved in teaching the medical students and residents who were shadowing us. And that’s probably one of the most noble aspects of our career.”

“[Most medical] careers last for 30 to 35 years. You are kind of a blip in time in your field,” he said. “It’s your job to take what you know, apply it to patient care but also apply it to the doctors coming 10 years behind you.”

Accessible care

Many people, not only worldwide, but also domestically, are never going to have the resources or access to ophthalmology that they should have. So, Dr. Singhal has always been involved in clinics to help people without health insurance or access to ophthalmologists.

“One of my favorite trips in residency was with a team of physicians to Ecuador for a week,” he said. “We were working on cataract surgeries, strabismus surgeries and providing services to patients who do not really have access to ocular surgeries.”

Singhal also stressed research as an important part of advancing the profession.

“These advances are only possible because the profession is so actively engaged in basic science research and clinical trials. One of the biggest things I intend to start in my location at Suburban Retina Associates are clinical research trials,” he said. “You provide patients with the opportunity to become involved with the latest advances in ophthalmology treatments. ‘We have a new medication undergoing clinical trials. Are you interested in being involved?’ Some patients decline, and that is certainly acceptable. Some patients jump at the chance to be involved and have access to the newest therapies.”

Eye health and annual exams

Besides surgeries and medicines, Dr. Singhal also emphasized good, old-fashioned exercise and diet management.

“The same things that affect your systemic health, like elevated blood pressure and diabetes, have negative impacts on the eyes also. So, the same things that your primary care doctor preaches about are not only helping

you systemically. They’re helping your eyes also,” he said. And, of course, don’t forget annual eye exams.

“I also have to emphasize that in the retina world, we deal with many sad cases where we deliver bad news to patients. Sometimes people’s conditions do not have treatments available, or the macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy has become too advanced,” he said. “I always caution everyone to have their annual eye examination. Even in our new practice at Suburban Retina, I have caught pathology that would have been missed absent that eye exam.”

Building on the family legacy

Although Suburban Retina Associates is less than a year old, Dr. Singhal has big plans for his practice, but none more important than continuing the family legacy.

“My job is to live up to the reputation and deliver the best possible eye care I can. … There’s a family name behind this practice,” he said. “I’m the first ophthalmologist in my family here. So, to some degree, this is a new branch of the family tree.” ■

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From Our Table to Yours: Five Cozy Dishes for Winter from Peachtree Corners Locals

Winter is a time for comfort food, cozy gatherings and the familiar traditions that bring people together. In this collection, five local residents share their go-to recipes for the season. Whether it’s a spicy kick, a sweet treat or a hearty meal, these dishes are perfect for enjoying with friends and family.

By Kristen Corley

Each recipe reflects a personal story, filled with memories of family traditions or new spins on old favorites. From savory soups to festive desserts, these meals capture the spirit of the season and the warmth of home cooking in Peachtree Corners.

Kentucky Bourbon Balls — Kasey Kohtala

Kasey Kohtala’s Bourbon Balls are a festive holiday treat that blends family tradition with rich flavors. For Kasey, bourbon balls are a taste of Kentucky and a reminder of growing up, where her grandparents made them every year. “Bourbon balls and the holidays go hand in hand for me — they’re basically a taste of Kentucky wrapped in chocolate,” she says.

These no-bake delights are perfect for involving the whole family. “I like that this recipe requires little use of the oven,” Kasey adds, noting that her son enjoys dipping the bourbon balls in melted choco late. With a combination of toasted pecans, bourbon and chocolate, these treats offer a mix of sweet and savory flavors, ideal for sharing with neighbors and friends during the holidays. The smell alone takes her back to those family gatherings, making this recipe a special way to spread a little cheer each year.

Ingredients:

■ 1.5 cups pecans

■ 2.5 cups vanilla wafer cookies (crumbled)

■ ½ cup bourbon (I prefer Four Roses or Woodford, but use your favorite!)

■ 1 cup powdered sugar

■ 3 Tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

■ 1.5 Tbsp molasses

■ Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Toast the pecans: Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread the pecans onto a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes until toasted.

2. Prep the cookies: Use a food processor to pulse the vanilla wafer cookies into crumbs (you’ll need 2.5 cups total).

3. Add the pecans: Add the cooled pecans to the cookie crumbs and pulse lightly a few times. Be careful not to overdo it — you still want some texture from the pecans!

4. Mix remaining ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the bourbon, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, molasses and salt.

5. Combine together: Add the liquid mixture to the food processor and pulse until combined.

6. Let mixture rest: Scoop the mixture into a bowl, give it a few stirs, and press it into a large, solid mass. Let it rest at room temperature for one hour.

7. Prepare the balls: Roll the mixture into 1-inch balls and coat them in toppings of your choice. Kasey enjoys rolling hers in melted chocolate and topping them with a pecan, but you can also use nuts, coarse sugar or sprinkles.

Pro Tips:

■ Soak your pecans overnight in a sealed Jar filled halfway with bourbon if you have time for extra flavor.

■ Sip bourbon while baking — always a good idea!

Aunt Cuda’s Soup — Jim and

Carol Gaffey

Jim and Carol Gaffey share a beloved family recipe with Aunt Cuda’s Soup, a comforting dish passed down through generations. This hearty soup, made with eggplant, beef and elbow macaroni, has become a staple in their home, bringing back cherished memories of family gatherings. “Peeling and finely cubing

the eggplant by hand, just as Aunt Cuda did, is one of the things that makes this soup special,” Carol shares. The key to perfecting this dish is letting the vegetables simmer until they’re soft and tender. Grating fresh Parmesan cheese adds richness, elevating the flavors of the savory broth. For Jim and Carol, preparing this soup isn’t just cooking — it’s keeping Aunt Cuda’s memory alive while sharing a comforting tradition with loved ones.

Ingredients:

■ 1 chopped onion

■ 1 lb. sirloin beef

■ 1 medium eggplant, peeled and diced

■ 1 clove garlic, pressed

■ ½ - 1 cup diced fresh carrots

■ ½ - 1 cup diced celery

■ 1 (16 oz) can crushed tomatoes

■ 2 beef bouillon cubes

■ Salt, pepper, nutmeg, sugar and parsley to taste

■ ½ cup elbow macaroni

■ Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Brown the beef and onion: In a large pot, brown the sirloin beef with the chopped onion over medium heat until cooked through.

2. Add vegetables and seasonings: Add the diced eggplant, garlic, carrots, celery and crushed tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, nutmeg, sugar and parsley to taste.

3. Simmer the soup: Add the beef bouillon cubes and let the mixture simmer over low heat until all the vegetables are soft and tender, stirring occasionally.

4. Cook the pasta: Stir in the elbow macaroni and cook until the pasta is tender, about 10 minutes.

5. Serve: Serve the soup hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

Pro Tips:

■ For the best flavor and texture, peel and finely cube fresh eggplant.

■ Grating your own Parmesan cheese adds a rich, sharp flavor that complements the soup perfectly.

instructions)

■ 2 cups sour cream

■ 1.5 cups shredded Colby Jack or Mexican cheese

■ 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese

■ 1 fresh jalapeño, seeds removed (or ½ cup pickled jalapeños)

■ 1 can (4 oz) mild green chilies

■ 4 eggs, beaten

■ 2 sticks melted butter

■ 1 cup milk (2%)

■ 1 Tbsp honey

■ 1 tsp black pepper

■ 2 tsp taco seasoning

■ Small bunch cilantro, chopped

■ ½ cup chopped green onions (greens only)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F.

2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine all ingredients. Let the melted butter cool slightly before adding it to avoid scrambling the eggs.

3. Prepare the pan: Pour the mixture into a large cast iron skillet or an oven-safe baking pan.

4. Bake: Cover with foil sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Bake for one hour. In the last 15 minutes of baking, remove the foil, sprinkle

Jalapeño Honey Cornbread —

Shiney Eapen

Shiney Eapen’s Jalapeño Honey Cornbread is a crowd-pleaser that balances sweet and savory with a touch of spice. Whether served at a Thanksgiving dinner or a casual game-day gathering, this cornbread has become a staple for friends and family. Shiney loves how easy it is to customize, adding fresh jalapeños, cilantro or green onions for extra flavor.

The cornbread’s blend of sweet corn, honey and jalapeños creates a perfect balance of flavors. “I love making this gluten-free with King Arthur or Krusteaz mixes,” Shiney says. Cooking it in a cast iron skillet gives the bread a golden, crispy crust, while keeping the inside soft and tender.

Ingredients:

■ 2 cans corn

■ 2 cans cream-style corn

■ 2 boxed cornbread mixes (gluten-free Krusteaz or King Arthur preferred; do not follow box

the reserved cheese on top and continue baking until the cheese is melted and golden.

Pro Tips:

■ Reserve half of the cheese to sprinkle on top during the last 15 minutes for an extra cheesy finish.

■ Cilantro and green onions can be mixed into the batter or sprinkled on top with the cheese.

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Iron Bowl Taco Soup — Claire King

Claire King’s Iron Bowl Taco Soup is a dish steeped in tradition, emotion and Alabama football. Growing up, Iron Bowl Saturday was more than just a game day — it was a family event. Claire’s mother would wake up early, hang their Auburn Univer-

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sity flag, and start the soup, letting it simmer all day as the house filled with its comforting aroma. “As tradition, and quite a bit of superstition, my mom only made this soup one Saturday a year — never any other time, no matter how much we begged,” Claire recalls.

That tradition held strong until Claire and her sister both married Alabama fans, breaking the long-standing family rule. Now, the recipe has become a game-day staple, enjoyed beyond just Iron Bowl Saturday. Packed with beans, corn and a rich blend of spices, this taco soup is perfect for feeding a crowd. It also freezes well, making it a go-to for chilly days and big gatherings.

Ingredients:

■ 1 package ground beef (or sub stitute ground turkey)

■ 2 cans white shoepeg corn

■ 2 cans kidney beans

■ 2 cans black beans

■ 2 cans pinto beans

■ 1 can diced tomatoes

■ 1 can Rotel (diced tomatoes and green chilies)

■ 2 packages Hidden Valley Ranch dressing seasoning (dry mix)

■ 2 packages Old El Paso mild taco seasoning (dry mix)

Optional Toppings:

■ Shredded cheese

■ Chopped green onion

■ Tortilla chips

■ Sour cream

Instructions:

1. Brown the meat: In a skillet, brown the ground beef or turkey until fully cooked.

2. Combine ingredients: Add the browned meat and all the canned ingredients (do not drain) to a large pot or Dutch oven. Stir in the ranch dressing seasoning and taco seasoning mixes.

3. Simmer: Simmer on low heat for several hours, allowing the flavors to meld. The soup can simmer all day, making it perfect for long game days.

4. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cheese, green onions, tortilla chips or sour cream if desired.

White Chicken Chili — Kasey Lieu

Kasey Lieu’s White Chicken Chili is a flavorful twist on a fall favorite, blending warm spices and herbs like cumin, oregano and chili powder. “Chili is always a fall favorite, but this recipe is a fun twist on traditional chili,” Kasey says. “I love how simple this meal is to throw together, yet it’s full of nutrients and flavor.”

While you can make the dish in a crockpot, Kasey prefers the stovetop for better flavor and texture. “Sometimes I add extra full-fat coconut milk to make the soup richer and creamier,” she says. “This dish holds memories of a slow, fall Saturday — fire going, foot-

ball games playing in the background and a warm bowl of chili to enjoy with the family.” Topped with avocado, cilantro or extra jalapeños, this chili is the perfect meal for a chilly weekend.

Ingredients:

■ 1.5 - 2 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts

■ 1 Tbsp avocado oil or olive oil

■ 1 medium onion, diced

■ 1 medium bell pepper (any color), diced

■ 1 small jalapeño, seeds and membranes removed, finely diced

■ 6 cloves garlic, minced

■ 2.5 tsp ground cumin

■ 1 tsp oregano

■ 1 Tbsp chili powder

■ 1 tsp fine salt, plus more to taste

■ ½ tsp black pepper

■ 2 cups chicken broth or bone broth

■ 1 (14 oz) can full-fat coconut milk (or dairy milk/half-and-half if not dairy-free)

■ Juice of ½ lime

■ ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

■ 1 (14 oz) can white beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Garnishes:

■ Avocado slices

■ Extra cilantro

■ Parsley

■ Extra jalapeños

Instructions:

1. Heat the oil: Place a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat and add oil. Heat until hot.

2. Sauté the vegetables: Add the diced onions and bell peppers. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.

3. Add the spices and beans: Stir in the garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper and beans. Cook for an additional 30–60 seconds, or until fragrant.

4. Cook the chicken: Lay the chicken over the onion and pepper mixture. Add 1 cup of broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover and simmer for 12–15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

5. Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken from the pot and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pan.

6. Add broth and coconut milk: Pour in the remaining broth and the coconut milk. Bring back to a simmer and cover, allowing the chili to cook for another 10 minutes.

7. Finish with lime and cilantro: Remove from heat and stir in the lime juice and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasonings to taste.

8. Serve: Ladle the chili into bowls and top with avocado, extra cilantro, parsley or jalapeños if desired.

Pro Tips:

■ While you can make this recipe in the crockpot, Kasey prefers the flavor and texture from the stovetop.

■ You can prepare the chicken ahead of time in a crockpot with bone broth on high for about three hours or use a rotisserie chicken for convenience. ■

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Serial Entrepreneur ‘Pays It Forward’ with Atlanta Tech Park

Having been in the tech field for over 30 years, Robin Bienfait has been on the cutting edge of many advancements. Now, she uses that knowledge and experience to grow a new crop of innovators and entrepreneurs at Atlanta Tech Park in Peachtree Corners.

She originally started at AT&T as one of the lowest-level engineers in semiconductor device line man-

ufacturing and ended her career with the company almost 24 years later, as what they called the “last man standing” — the unelected CEO of the corporation.

“I deployed our first deployment of AI in 1999 at AT&T,” she said. “I ran a large portion of Bell Labs … was running AT&T’s global network and led the disaster recovery team for 9/11, Katrina [and] all the hurricanes and stuff as part of my operational job globally.”

At the time, she had more than 60,000 employees and 146 vice presidents from various divisions reporting to her. Shortly after AT&T was acquired by SBC Communications, also known as “Baby Bell,” for more than $16 billion, Bienfait left the company.

Blackberry and Samsung

Mike Lazar, inventor and founder of Blackberry recruited her to work for him in another global position building out infrastructure. As CIO, she was head of product security and enterprise software.

As her role at Blackberry was winding down, she was approached by Samsung.

She worked with the team to put the right security protocols and solutions in place and helped them build it in about three years for a cost of about $15 billion. By then, Bienfait had gotten a call from another group.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

“They were pretty much consumer-focused, and they wanted me to help them build a B2B,” she said. “The first thing to get into any company [that offers] a consumer device or a consumer product is security, privacy [and] confidentiality.”

“It was also in the hardware space,” she said. “I’m not allowed to use their name because I turned the job down.”

Left, Robin Bienfait Top, Generative AI fireside Chat - Saurabh Srivastava (left) and Robin, right. Above, Dell Event

Finding her mission

Bienfait’s husband asked her what she really wanted to do.

“I’m exhausted from working for these corporations and the real innovation is happening outside the corporate walls,” she said.

While working for Samsung, she had also been allowed to work with her husband in a 3D print lab. As long as she shared what she learned with the company, they were okay with the side gig.

Her husband, Mike Bienfait, CEO of Global Aviation in Peachtree Corners has a fixed wing distribution company for airlines like Delta, Lufthansa, KLM and Air France; a second company for helicopters that’s also in the same building and a 3D print business that makes non-flight-critical aircraft parts.

“Well, toilet seats are non-critical, but it doesn’t make those,” she said. “It does [make] trays, armrests — anything that doesn’t have to do with flying the plane because usually that takes metal components and a bunch of other stuff. So, [Mike] prints ash trays, crazy little things like that, as a value-added service.” Evolve NDT and a new idea

Shortly after, the couple decided to start a fourth business — Evolve NDT, a company that would provide non-destructive testing solutions, management and more.

NDT is a set of techniques that evaluates the properties of materials, components or systems without causing damage. It is a vital tool for quality control, safety and reliability in many industries, including aerospace, construction, manufacturing, energy, oil, railways and nuclear.

While getting these companies off the ground, Bienfait noticed that a building across the street was being foreclosed on.

“Between my jobs at Blackberry and Samsung, I had to sit out a year as a corporate officer and realized all the intellectual property kind of constraints,” she said.

Teaching herself how to navigate that terrain, she realized she could help others in their pursuits. And then she had a lightbulb moment.

“I said, ‘Hey, I think I want to buy the building across the street and create an innovation center for anybody who wants to be involved in innovation,” she recalled.

As someone who doesn’t waste time over-contemplating next moves, Bienfait quickly put the wheels in motion.

Birth of Atlanta Tech Park

The endeavor — Atlanta Tech Park — isn’t just for entrepreneurs, Bienfait explained.

“It could be that you just want to be around people that are innovative or you want to bring that innovative facet to your current job or into your career,” she said. “We accept anybody that wants to be a member of the park. And then we curate businesses here at the park that are in some form of business-to-business services and capabilities.”

She clarified that businesses could come in as startups.

“Typically, the ones that do better are [the] ones that have already gotten their MVP (minimum viable product) [and] maybe have a little investment,” she said. “[Our companies] need the coaching, but don’t need a heavy hand.”

Minimum viable product is a concept used in business and engineering to estimate features. It refers to the simplest version of a product that can be built to sell to a market. The goal of an MVP is to collect customer feedback with minimal effort.

“There are a lot of people that think they have to go be part of one of those programmatic places [where] you get adopted by something for 10 weeks and then they spit you out,” she said. “I’m in favor of innovation and entrepreneurship. Those two things together sometimes go at different paces, and [if] it’s a program

that might work for 10 people or 10 groups or whatever [it’s] okay. I don’t say it’s a bad thing. I think sometimes you have to go at your own pace.”

Vallum Software

One of Bienfait’s earliest protégés, who’s still at Tech Park, is Lance Edelman, co-founder and CEO of Vallum Software.

“I’m actually probably the second or third longest person at Atlanta Tech Park since she opened [in] 2018 … I came in around 2019,” he said. “I began with a couple of people that I was working with who are now gone, but it’s been kind of tumultuous trying to get the technology that I brought together, trying to get it evolved and find the right market fit.”

Edelman said that what has been critical for his company is the relationships built from the people that have come into ATP.

“We started out as a pure software company,” he said. “We don’t do any hardware or anything. We started out in a space called IT infrastructure monitoring — like in data centers, they monitor the servers, the network equipment and all of that kind of stuff.”

Edelman met up with a managed service provider that maintained surveillance cameras for small and medium businesses.

“They were deploying these cameras, which are really known as IOT (internet of things) devices — they’re embedded devices, and they’re running a little Linux operating system.”

The company was using a kind of a technology tool called ‘ping,’ which means the operating system kind of knocks on the door and the camera responds back that it is on.

“That’s what they were using to determine whether these cameras were functional or not,” said Edelman.

The problem was that the camera would respond that it was working, but the video was either poor or non-existent. So, they can’t tell if the camera needs repair, adjustments or what.

“They [were] kind of embarrassed because they [didn’t] know,” he said. “They came to us … and we took our software component and found out that it fit very nicely on this camera, and it allowed us to look inside the camera and see … not only whether the operating system is functioning but also if the video is functioning properly at that point.”

That revelation changed the trajectory of his business.

“There’s a lot of competition and a lot of money in the commercial IOT space with surveillance cameras,” Edelman shared. “We dug into it and found out that the problems that are on cameras are all over the place. They don’t know whether these devices are functioning properly, and in many cases, they don’t even know where the devices are located physically.”

And that synergy happened because he was in the right place.

“If we hadn’t had that interaction in that moment, we probably wouldn’t be around,” said Edelman, “because we wouldn’t have found our niche.”

That’s a major component of the magic of Atlanta Tech Park.

“Part of this is having a space for people to meet and/or a hub for us to connect,” said Bienfait. “It doesn’t mean that you have to be here. You can have a virtual connection.”

Staying innovative

The benefits of being around so much creativity are also a boon for Bienfait herself. One of her latest endeavors, a Digital Identity badge, is developed through Emnovate, a company that she founded in 2016. The badge system manages digital identities securely with biometric access. That may sound too complex for many to comprehend, but it solves an issue that’s becoming critical worldwide.

Earlier this year, a team of security researchers

revealed how they could thwart a crucial protection against cloning HID cards — radio-frequency-enabled plastic rectangles used to open doors, enter countries, access digital networks, verify transactions and track assets.

According to an article in Wired magazine, HID Global’s keycards can be cloned and spoofed by any hacker clever enough to read one of the cards with a hidden device that brushes within about a foot of it, obtain an HID encoder device and use it to write the stolen data to a new card.

Bienfait’s company has found a way to stave off that security threat with no infrastructure upgrades needed, according to company literature.

The product is called Digital Me (DigMe), a biometric digital badge. Whereas smart cards are fingerprint activated with a single credential, the DigMe device uses multiple credentials digitally displayed with fingerprint activation. With the Digital Identity mobile app and dashboard, the customer can upload cards easily and manage them securely. They can also simultaneously update multiple screens using a cloud interface that’s compatible with both mobile and desktop devices.

Getting involved

The Tech Park Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit that collaborates with Atlanta Tech Park, Inc. is a way for those who want to support this type of environment to help out.

“Our Tech Park Foundation is really focused on helping our underserved community have access to capabilities such as this,” said Bienfait. “We’re putting in for grants and all types of stuff.”

The foundation recently held a successful charity event, The Texas Hold ‘Em Tournament, on November 2.

For $100, participants enjoyed an evening of poker with a top prize of $750. All proceeds from the event went to the foundation.

“This really allows us to then provide some services to members of our community,” Bienfait said.

On occasion, Atlanta Tech Park also hosts free Lunch and Learn sessions, which are funded through the foundation.

“[People] come in and they learn how to structure a business, what they might need to build a business -— some of what I call basic building blocks of understanding your customer,” she said. “These are people that aren’t members of the park. There’s a lot of non-member activity.”

Another regular event is the Tech Meetup, which attracts more than 2,200 people.

“They network. They help each other find their next job, possibly and/or do some career development,” Bienfait shared.

ATP allows others to host events

Another way Atlanta Tech Park benefits the community is by allowing others to host events onsite.

“If somebody wants to leverage the auditorium or the cafe, we have a lot of space; We can host up to 1,500 people for events on the weekend,” said Bienfait.

TiE ACCESS, a diversity, equity and inclusion program launched in 2020 that aims to pave in-roads for minority and women-owned businesses to build their companies and networks held a 10-week STEM educational forum for high school students at ATP.

“There’s a lot of things we do that are not what people think a startup community [does],” she said. “We really believe that [the] start-up mentality, that entrepreneurial mentality and mindset, is something everybody needs to have because, even if you go back into your day-in-and-day-out job, there’s a lot of entrepreneurial thought processes you could be having while you’re in there learning.” ■

PCBA Continues Charitable Giving at After-Hours Event

The Peachtree Corners Business Association (PCBA) awarded $500 to United Way of Greater Atlanta (Gwinnett County) and $3500 to Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries at their Business After Hours networking event in November.

The two organizations were chosen by the PCBA’s Outreach Committee because of their commitment to providing assistance and bettering the lives of at-risk children and families within the community.

“The PCBA is proud to donate a check

for $500 to United Way of Greater Atlanta (Gwinnett County) … to help those at highest risk in our local community … [and] $3500 to the Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries to contribute to their ongoing need of restocking their pantry and providing financial assistance,” said Lisa Proctor, PCBA president.

“Our outreach committee and board are committed to supporting our community … and investing in the well-being of children … as our businesses continue to grow.”

Funds for the PCBA Community

State Farm Ribbon Cutting

Brady Bennett State Farm Insurance Agency recently celebrated its grand opening and ribbon-cutting with supporters from the Southwest Gwinnett Chamber and the city and family and friends.

While Brady’s agency is new to the area, he brings nine years of experience with State Farm, a passion for helping others and a dedication to building strong community relationships. Brady and his team are excited to provide trusted insurance and financial services to Peachtree Corners.

Visit their stunning, expansive office at 3000 Northwoods Pkwy., give them a call or explore their website at mygwinnettinsagent.com to learn more and get a free, no-obligation quote.

Let’s give them a warm welcome to the neighborhood! ■

Outreach Program are raised throughout the year from PCBA membership, sponsorship and an annual charity event. Donations and scholarships are awarded at their monthly events so that members have the opportunity to learn more about the community organizations and their programs.

Over the past 12 years, the PCBA has awarded 19 scholarships to outstanding graduating high school seniors and donated in excess of $165,500 back into the community. ■

PCBA Board

Far left, l-r, Donna Linden, PCBA Board; Toby Anderson, PCBA Board; Ryan Jones, Neighborhood Cooperative Ministries; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Suzanna Martinez, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert, PCBA Board

Above, Suzanna Martinez, PCBA Board; Toby Anderson, PCBA Board; Vanessa Roussell, United Way of Greater Atlanta; Denise Townsend, United Way of Greater Atlanta; Lisa Proctor, PCBA Board; Donna Linden, PCBA Board; Allison Reinert,

Far left, Brady Bennett and his team

Above, staff, family and friends gather for the ribbon cutting and grand opening in November. Left, Brady Bennet with his wife Courtney.

Business Organizations and Events

Atlanta Tech Park

107 Technology Parkway, |Peachtree Corners 30092 atlantatechpark.com, 404-797-1221 https://www.atlantatechpark.com

TiE Atlanta High School Program

Sunday, December 1. 1-4 p.m.

TiE High School empowers high school students with the means of entrepreneurship. It’s a hands-on entrepreneurship, ideation, business model, financial and customer discovery program taught by entrepreneur mentors from the TiE Atlanta network.

Atlanta Tech Meet Up

Tuesdays, December 3, January 7 and February 4. 6-8 p.m.

Sponsored by Aditi Consulting, the monthly meet-up is held on the first Tuesday of the month. Tech admirers and professionals are welcome to meet and discuss all things emerging in technology in the café. Beer and pizza is provided.

The Five Threats to Your Family’s Financial Planning

Wednesday, December 4. 2-4 p.m.

Presented by Estate Planning Law Group of Georgia, this free in-person event will review everything participants need to know to protect themselves and their loved ones financially. Light refreshments will be served and participants must register ahead.

State of Technology Summit

Thursday, December 5. 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

The event is sponsored by Partnership Gwinnett. Email maddie@emnovate.com for information about sponsoring.

ATP 7th Annual Holiday Ping Pong Tournament

Tuesday, December 17. 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Join for friendly competition and BBQ. There’ll be prizes for winners, food and refreshments. The sign-up sheet and brackets are coming soon.

Pitch Night / Wine

Wednesday

Wednesday, January 29. 5-6:30 p.m.

Entrepreneurs can sign up for the opportunity to pitch their ideas to other area business owners and investors. Registration is required.

Southwest Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce

Office in Atlanta Tech Park

107 Technology Pkwy., Peachtree Corners

southwestgwinnettchamber.com, 470-482-1899

Peachtree Corners

Business Association

4989 Peachtree Pkwy., Ste. 215, Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersba.com, 678-969-3385

PCBA

Connecting Over Coffee Morning Meetup

Tuesday, December 10. 8:30-9:30 a.m.

Firebirds Wood Fired Grill, 5215 Town Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners

▲Holiday After Hours — Neighborhood Christmas Train 2024

Thursday, December 5. 4:30-6:30 p.m.

Neighborhood Christmas Train 3135 Reps Miller Rd. NW, Norcross Celebrate the season with fellow professionals at an exclusive holiday gathering with great conversation, delicious treats and a cozy atmosphere amid Atlanta’s largest Christmas train display. It’s an open house drop-in with complimentary food and a cash bar.

Thursday Thought Leaders Lunch — Stronger Together: Building a Better Community Through Giving

Thursday, December 12

Hilton Atlanta Northeast

5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Admission: $28 for members, $35 for non-members; registration by 12/10 required

Community leaders Tim Bentsen and DePriest Waddy will explore the importance of giving back to the community and how individuals and organizations can create meaningful impact through thoughtful involvement.

PCBA Business After Hours Speaker Series & Holiday Celebration

Thursday, December 19. 5:30-7:30 p.m.

Hilton Atlanta Northeast 5993 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Event registration is $40. Early bird registration for members is $25. Advanced registration is $30 for members and $35 for guests. Includes appetizers and drinks.

Speaker Leroy Hite is the founder of the world’s largest luxury firewood and designer cooking brand, Cutting Edge Firewood. He will share his journey of building a business, reshaping an entire industry and selling his successful business.

Rotary Club of Peachtree Corners

The Hickory Room 5260 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Peachtree Corners peachtreecornersrotary.org, 770-330-7477

Free admission for PCBA members and their guests. Register online as space is limited.

Meet with other PCBA and business professionals over coffee in a positive atmosphere on the second Tuesday of the month. Business cards will be shared with all attendees.

PCBA Lunch Club

Thursday, December 12. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Marlow’s Tavern, Peachtree Corners Town Center, 5210 Center Blvd., Peachtree Corners

Open to PCBA members and their guests. Advance registration is appreciated.

Meet up with PCBA members for an enjoyable way to network and save 15% off your lunch check.

Club Meetings

Meetings are held on most Mondays; check the website for more info.

Meetings are scheduled for December 2 and 16, January 13 and 27 and February 3 and 10.

The Holiday Banquet will be held Thursday, December 12 at 6 p.m.

Duluth Business Association

duluthbusiness.org

Meetings held the second Tuesday of every month, 6-7:30 p.m. Meeting locations are announced monthly.

RSVP by emailing duluthbusiness@gmail.com. https://duluthbusiness.org

DePriest Waddy

Leroy Hite Tim Bentsen

Steering Committee Convenes to Develop Master Plan for Simpsonwood Park

Ever since it purchased the Simpsonwood Park property in 2014, Gwinnett County has worked to turn the 227-acre spread that borders the Chattahoochee River in Peachtree Corners into a recreation oasis for its residents.

A master plan established in 2016 got sidelined by COVID and other priorities. But the county is now back at the drawing board looking to revise those plans for today’s needs.

A meeting in September sought residents and stakeholders to form a steering committee that will salvage what works from the old plan and create a new blueprint by the end of next year.

Introductory meeting

The first meeting of that steering committee intro-

duced the Simpsonwood Park project, led by Perez Planning + Design, LLC (PP+D), a research-based planning and design firm that works with clients to integrate the elements of people, space and built and natural environments to plan, design and implement public-use areas.

The agenda included introductions, project history, planning context and interactive exercises on guiding principles and desired park experiences. Key points included the conservation easement limiting impervious surface to 15%, the need for ADA-compliant trails and the importance of natural resource management.

The project timeline extends from September 2022 to August 2026, with milestones including public meetings, site tours and the development of a final plan. The meeting emphasized community input, respectful discussion and the integration of natural resource protection and recreational amenities.

“Some of you may have been on the steering committee leading this effort last time,” said Glenn Boorman, a director with Gwinnett County Parks & Recreation. “You’re going to see a little bit of difference in this effort in terms of how we’re approaching it.”

Carlos Perez, president and founder of PP+D explained the overall process.

Perez added that the upcoming meetings will depend on everyone’s schedule, and he’ll send out an electronic poll to see what works best.

“One of the first things we’re going to do next is schedule a park tour and a site walk,” he said. “The park tour is intended for you all to see other parks in the county that have comparable experiences and amenities as what Simpsonwood could potentially have. And then, as part of that, we’re also going to do a site walk as a group, so we can see certain parts of Simpsonwood based on that collective experience.”

Developing guiding principles and experiences

The original intent was to bring back the previous steering committee, said Perez, but there were some who didn’t want to continue participation. Using many of the same metrics that were used before, new members were chosen.

“We know that there are certain organizations that wanted to be part of this effort,” he added. “We have the Recreation Authority board members, which we have in place, City of Peachtree Corners representatives and Simpsonwood United Methodist Church representative, as well.”

Additionally, geographic location and demographics were taken into consideration to create a balance as much as possible.

“You represent a cross-section of the community, and therefore we’re looking for you to provide that community-minded input based on what you’re hearing from your groups and your thoughts from a community-minded perspective,” said Perez. “We also want you to collect input from other people. You are representing other members, so please collect that input and bring it back.”

The committee is using a strategy where the majority of votes for an idea will move it forward. And, although the meetings are open to the public, the audience plays a passive role, Perez noted.

“The public can attend. We’re going to reserve the last 10 minutes of the meeting to hear from any [member of the] public that would [like to] provide any input. We have five slots [on the sign-up sheet], two minutes per slot; They can sign up and share that input,” he said.

History of the site

The tract of land had been deeded as a gift to the United Methodist Church by Ludie Simpson in the early 1970s. The church had built a conference and retreat center on a portion of the property, but decided to look into selling the property when the conference center began to lose money.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

“You’ll see Lose Design (a company that offers comprehensive recreation and park plans) later in the process. As we get closer to the end, they’ll be helping us out with some of the implementation elements,” he said. “We started this effort in September. We’re shooting to end it [next] September.”

Gwinnett County purchased the land for $14 million in 2015. Shortly after the purchase, the county demolished all the buildings on the site over a period of two years.

“There really hasn’t been any development by the

2016 Proposed Plan, Gwinnett County Parks

Department of Parks and Rec —everything that’s used on the site, including trails and picnic area, a large open meadow, some grills, the volleyball court, the restrooms — all of that was part of the conference center,” said Perez. “A really big part of this is to bring everything, all those kinds of public amenities that you’ve been using, to county standards.”

Creating a master plan

In setting parameters for the future of the park, the meeting focused on enhancing biodiversity, increasing business opportunities and creating memorable experiences in the park. Key points included the importance of cultural resource protection, displaying artifacts and incorporating educational signage.

The group emphasized the need for guiding principles such as negative impacts and neighborhood protection. They also discussed the necessity of safe spaces, respect for property and enforcement of park rules.

The final exercise involved brainstorming desired experiences, considering amenities and resident feedback, to inform future park improvements and decisions.

For developing experiences, the meeting focused on enhancing Simpsonwood Park by incorporating various recreational and educational features. Key suggestions included camping areas, pedestrian access, fishing platforms, dog walking trails and seating for rest and reflection.

There was a discussion on the need for better signage, biking trails and wildlife interaction areas. The group emphasized the importance of maintaining trails and integrating safety features. They also highlighted the need for parking spaces and the potential impact on the community.

The next steps involve creating concept plans, visiting comparable parks and ensuring community input through guided tours and surveys.

Action items going forward

• Schedule a site visit for the group to tour comparable parks.

• Organize a walk-through of the park with the group to discuss the desired experiences and features.

• Develop concept plans based on the feedback gathered and present them to the group in a second standing committee meeting in January. ■

Steering committee members

• Christine Adams

• Samia Abdulle, Recreation Authority board member

• Trisha Bjumark

• Irina Burns

• Preston Chappell

• Eric Christ, city councilman of Peachtree Corners

• Robert Gates

• Nancy Geigler

• Barbara Gilman

• Vanessa Graves

• Linda Hostinsky

• Matt Houser

• Brian Johnson, city manager of Peachtree Corners

• Joe Kennedy

• Venky Kini

• Danielle Leahy

• Gary Lewis

• Adam Nixon

• John O’Reilly

• Steve Ratchford

• Peter Razmuov

• Bo Reddic

• Anne Sheffield

• Angela Sun

• Joyce Teel

• Eric Thigpen, Recreation Authority board member

• Jillian Tuten

• Mike Verna

• Cindy Waldo

• Donald Warden

• Nancy Yang

Jones Bridge Park: Concerns and Steps Toward Solutions

By Arlinda Smith Broady

Although Jones Bridge Park isn’t the largest in Gwinnett County, it is one of the busiest, according to county officials. You don’t have to convince nearby residents of that. Many of them met with Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation and Gwinnett County Police in late summer to voice concerns about illegal activity taking place there and what measures are being taken to curtail it.

A follow-up meeting on October 15 at Pinckneyville Community Center allowed officials and citizens to review progress since the summer’s initial gathering and discuss what could — and should — be done going forward.

Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson acknowledged that the park’s unique features, such as its access to the Chattahoochee River, attracts many visitors from outside the county. However, these attributes have also contributed to some of the park’s issues.

studies for Gwinnett County Department of Transportation. Plans are underway to upgrade existing speed humps and add more if necessary.

Safety and parking improvements

Gwinnett County Parks and Recreation Division Director Chris Minor detailed recent changes: park rental hours were shortened, barriers were installed to prevent roadside parking and additional signage is planned once current park renovations are completed.

Major J.D. Griffin, commander of Gwinnett County’s West Precinct highlighted increased enforcement, noting that citations and vehicle impoundments have soared since July. To enhance safety, officers now patrol during peak hours on weekends.

Traffic calming measures, like speed humps and no-parking zones, have also been implemented, according to Sylvia Goalen, director of traffic

Technology and noise control

Security cameras within the park, including a license plate reader camera near the entrance, aid law enforcement in monitoring park activity and traffic in and around the area.

Peachtree Corners officials have offered to fund additional cameras as well as gates that could be locked when the park closes, but concerns over maintenance and emergency access have delayed decisions. Noise from permitted and unpermitted events remains a major complaint. Suggestions like cutting pavilion power or activating sprinklers after hours were proposed to deter misuse.

Moving forward

Officials stressed the importance of community in-

volvement in shaping park policies. Another meeting is scheduled for January 8 at Pinckneyville Community Center, where updates and further solutions will be discussed. While improvements have been made, balancing the needs of park users with the rights of nearby residents remains a delicate, yet important, task.

■

For more details and ongoing updates, scan the QR code to access the full article online.

Jones Bridge Park picnic area

Updated Signs Photos by Rico Figliolini

Colorful Dog Mural Complements Memorial Garden Dedicated to the City’s Original First Lady

Acomplement to the lovely natural setting of the Debbie Mason Memorial Garden is the nearby mural featuring clever scenes of dogs and their owners along Peachtree Corners Circle.

By Arlinda Smith Broady

In late October, PTC Arts dedicated the garden to the memory of the city’s first first lady who had a love of gardening and the outdoors. Another passion was her four-legged “fur baby,” hence the proximity of the dog park and the dog mural, which was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting in early November.

The artist and the aesthetic

Regional artist, Jonathan Bidwell, created the artwork that captures the fun and whimsy that PTC Arts members wanted it to convey. Renowned for his gallery pieces, Bidwell said he’s being doing more murals lately.

“The actual aesthetic of the wall is a bit more graphic and more like a comic book or something that is simplified and a little [bolder] than the painting style that I would use in studio so that people driving … and walking by can see it quickly and effectively with the outlines and bright colors and

things of that nature,” he said. “That’s definitely the intention here. The location has influenced the style that would be different in another application.”

Bidwell studied graphic design, illustration and drawing/painting at East Carolina University in North Carolina. And he has no problem with fourlegged friends. Buster, his loyal canine studio assistant, also modeled for the mural. Upon close inspection you’ll see the small dog near Bidwell’s legs.

If the design seems familiar, it’s possible you may have seen the artist’s work in the city of Norcross at Social Fox Brewing & Distillery. Their mascot adorns labels and other items for the company and has become a local attraction. That’s what Peachtree Corners hopes will happen with its new mural.

“The city has to be branded,” said PTC Arts member Joan Smith, adding that too often Peachtree Corners is confused with the Fayette County city with a similar name.

Jonathan Bidwell in front of the portion of the mural where he included a full size image of his own dog. (Photos by Rico Figliolini)

An art-focused master plan

Although PTC Arts is working to keep the city beautiful, the projects can also be seen as economic drivers. Visual arts, murals, plays and musicals, live performances and Town Center concerts improve the quality of life in the city and make Peachtree Corners a more desirable place to live, visit, work and play.

To help PTC Arts achieve its vision, a component of the city’s Arts and Culture Master Plan is to seek funding from new businesses. Quik Trip was the first corporate sponsor to donate its funding.

“When they either develop or open up a new business, they donate 1% of their project value either in the form of public art on their property or to give that to us,” said Pat Bruschini, another PTC Arts member. “And so, [the mural was] funded mostly through the contribution by the Quik Trip opening up down on Jimmy Carter.”

Following the lead set by Norcross, Duluth and, of course, Atlanta, PTC Arts is looking to enhance the natural beauty of Peachtree Corners one art-centered project at a time. ■

Members of the PTC Arts board with artist Jonathan Bidwell

Mayor Mike Mason, city councilman, PTC Arts board and artist holding beverage cups at the ribbon cutting, representing the QuikTrips support of the mural project.

The mural runs along Peachtree Corners Circle just off the Town Center.

ICAGeorgia Adds Cross Country and Track Programs

The 2024-2025 school year has brought exciting extracurricular additions to the International Charter Academy of Georgia (ICAGeorgia), with the launch of new cross country and track programs.

Intended for upper-elementary and middle school students in grades 4-6, the new programs were started by Coach Shawn Nix, who joined the ICAGeorgia staff this fall. She comes to the school with 17 years of teaching experience in the Gwinnett County School System and 13 years of coaching experience. She was named Gwinnett County Coach of the Year twice

during her tenure there.

Nix said that her goal in creating the cross country and track programs at ICAGeorgia was to “give students an introduction to cross country, teach them the value of teamwork and cultivate the future generation of runners.”

“The parents are thrilled about the addition of the cross country program,” she added. “They’ve expressed their excitement to me, and they are at practice and meets supporting the athletes.”

Cross country

Twenty-three academy students signed up for cross country this year, excited to be part of the inaugural team.

The season began on September 3 with the school’s first meet at Legacy Park in Decatur, where students competed in the one-mile dash against 210 other athletes from Atlanta area-schools.

By Shawne Taylor

Three of the school’s young athlete’s placed, with one sixth grader taking third in the girls division; another sixth grade student placing 24th in the boys division and one fourth grader placing 16th in the boys division.

They recently wrapped up the season on

November 13 with a meet held at Midtown High School.

Though the season was short — most meets had already closed their entries by late August, and one meet was canceled due to Hurricane Helene — the ICAGeorgia team was able to get in two good competitions and a lot of practice sessions.

Track season

According to Coach Nix, some students that were interested in cross country weren’t able to sign up for the team in time, but they’ve said they will be coming out for track in the spring.

Photos courtesy of International Charter Academy of Georgia

She’s expecting at least 20 students to join the team.

Track season begins in February, and the opening meet is scheduled for March 8 at Lanier High School in Sugar Hill.

Upcoming track meets will feature the following events: long jump, triple jump, high jump, shot put, disc throw, 3200m, 1600m, 800m, 400m and 4x100, 400 and 800m relays.

Future plans

Following the success of the new cross country and track programs, Coach Nix shared that ICAGeorgia plans to offer more after-school sports in the near future.

“The sports we add will be gauged by an interest survey, keeping in mind the facilities we have,” she said. “But we would love to add basketball and soccer.”

For more about ICAGeorgia, visit them at internationalcharteracademy.org. ■

Check out the latest podcasts from

Peachtree Corners Magazine on YouTube

Hosted by Rico Figliolini, Prime Lunchtime with the City Manager is an informative monthly podcast that delves into city developments, news and issues with guest, city manager Brian Johnson.

Peachtree Corners Life, features interviews with people from our community, business owners, non-profits and more.

UrbanEbb, features topics and interviews from start up companies and urban planning, to politics and cultures.

Scan the QR to start today.

Pinckneyville Middle School’s Turkey Trot Celebrates 30 Years

Pinckneyville Middle School celebrated the 30th anniversary of their annual Turkey Trot race around campus on November 22. A beloved tradition since 1994, the pre-Thanksgiving, one-mile race brought students, staff and parents together for a funfilled, active event.

Created by dedicated P.E. teacher, Cindy Kirksey, the Turkey Trot has become a highlight of the school year. The race not only promotes a healthy lifestyle but also fosters school spirit and community involvement.

The top three finishers for both boys and girls in each grade received a free 10–12 lb turkey to enjoy during the Thanksgiving holiday. The top 10 finishers were honored with prestigious medals. And, once the race had concluded, all participants had the chance to win exciting prizes in the school gym.

The school extends its sincere gratitude to the PTSA and the entire school community for the generous donations of prizes and turkeys. Their support made the event possible and brought joy to many families to kick off the holiday season. ■

This year’s winners:

6th grade Girls

1. Lucy Byrne

2. Jules Craig

3. Charlotte Young

6th grade Boys

1. McCoy Brown

2. Collin Upshaw

3. Tripp Wiggins

7th grade Girls

1. Hadley Reich

2. Blaine Ellis

3. Nyria Smith

7th grade Boys

1. Colin Fabian

2. Teddy Heibenstreit

3. Teddy Marshall

8th grade Girls

1. Lily Armes

2. Kaitlyn Brown

3. Tori Duva

8th grade Boys

1. John Sprinkle

2. Anthony Hillman

3. Braxton Romeyn

Top, Turkey trot Middle, Girls finalists

Above, Boys finalists Right, 7th grade students

City of Peachtree Corners and Curiosity Lab Receive ITS Georgia 2024 Outside the Construction Box Award

The Intelligent Transportation Society of Georgia held its annual awards banquet on Wednesday, November 13th at the Cumberland Mall in Atlanta.

This year, Curiosity Lab at Peachtree Corners was awarded the 2024 Outside the Construction Box Award for setting up Ghost intersections on Peachtree Parkway (State Road 141). These ghost intersections parallel GDOT facilities and use advanced monitoring, detection, data capture, and movement ID allowing them to simulate and test how emerging ITS technologies will work in live scenarios.

The City of Peachtree Corners previously won this award in 2019 with the opening of Curiosity Lab.

About the Award

Innovation: Outside the “Construction” Box Award

A creative and unique approach or solution, by an individual or group, to

an ITS challenge or issue using ITS architecture, software deployments, network engineering, or any other ITS application that is not directly re -

lated to a typical ITS construction-esque type project.

About ITS Georgia

The Intelligent Transportation Society of Georgia is a state Chapter of ITS America. ITS America is the nation’s largest organization dedicated to advancing the research, development and deployment of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) to improve the nation’s surface transportation system. ITS America and ITS Georgia members are organizations that believe these technologies can significantly improve the performance of our transportation system, and that have a stake in the success of ITS. The ITS stakeholder groups are typically identified as transportation agencies, transportation system users, ITS technology and service providers, and other agencies whose missions are about or affected by the transportation system.

Gama Sonic Collaborates with City of Peachtree Corners and Curiosity Lab to Illuminate Public Spaces with Solar Lighting Solutions

Curiosity Lab and Peachtree Corners have announced a collaboration with Gama Sonic, a global leader in upscale, bright and durable solar lighting for homes, businesses and outdoor spaces. The company’s deployment of solar lighting in the City of Peachtree Corners marks its first deployment implementing customized, intelligent lighting programming timers that enhances safety for residents and visitors alike.

Gama Sonic’s advanced solar-powered lighting solutions bring the ability to quickly deploy additional lighting throughout the city without the extensive process required with traditional hard-wired lighting installations, while also supporting municipalities’ sustainability initiatives. This solution uses integrated solar panels for an aesthetically pleasing look that stores solar energy for consistent performance on cloudy days, eliminating one of the key challenges associated with solar lighting systems. Gama Sonic’s lighting solutions have already been deployed along the trail head of the city’s walking trail system, where the lights are programmed to shine brighter during the early morning and late evening hours.

“The peace of mind that well-lit public areas bring to our community

is invaluable,” said Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson. “By installing Gama Sonic’s solar lighting solutions, we’ve been able to improve resident and visitor safety without facing the usual challenges of disruptive construction or extended project timelines, which can be costly, that

Gwinnett County’s newest and largest city, Peachtree Corners, was founded July 1, 2012 and is located along the Chattahoochee River in the southwest corner of the county. The city is home to over 45,000 residents and 3,000 businesses.

can come with other types of lighting. Gama Sonic’s innovative approach ensures that residents utilizing the trails during early morning or late hours enjoy higher visibility, providing an enhanced user experience. We are looking forward to seeing our residents

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Mike Mason, Mayor

INSIDE PEACHTREE CORNERS

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enjoy these lighting solutions at the trail head.”

Gama Sonic’s technology represents a forward-thinking collaboration that underscores the city’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technology to enhance the quality of life for its residents. The deployment also serves as a model for other municipalities looking

to combine sustainable solutions with public safety in areas like schools, parks, public squares, recreational areas and a wide array of other public areas.

“Peachtree Corners was our ideal choice for this collaboration because of its visionary approach to creating a truly smart city that leverages innova-

tive technologies to improve the lives of its residents,” said Gama Sonic General Manager Itay Parness. “The city itself is the perfect environment to demonstrate how our solar-powered lighting solutions can seamlessly integrate into urban spaces and enhance both safety and sustainability. This collaboration showcases the potential

Code Enforcement Community Clean-Up Day

On Friday, October 18, the Peachtree Corners Code Enforcement Department conducted its First Community Clean-Up day off Winter’s Chapel Road near Peachtree Parkway.

This event was held to provide residents with the opportunity to rid their yeads of waste and unwanted and unsightly items and beautify their neighborhood.

of our technology to not only meet the needs of today’s cities but to push the boundaries of what’s possible in public lighting.”

Learn more about Gama Sonic’s solar lighting solutions at www.gamasonic.com/commercial-solar-lighting-solutions/.

At the event, the City provided two roll dumpsters and a tire disposal truck. Residents were allowed to use the dumpsters for the following:

• Bulk Items

• Carpet

• Home Debris

o Dry Wall o Tile o Doors

• Furniture

• Green Waste

o Limbs

o Leaves

o Trimmings

• Lumber

• Mattresses

• Recyclables

• Passenger Car Tires

o Maximum of 4

• Scrap Metal

By the end of the event, the City collected approximately 5 tons of waste and 22 tires.

Hazardous Waste was not allowed at this event.

In the future, Code Enforcement will coordinate additional events around the City.

The Real Dangers of Carbon Monoxide City of Peachtree Corners Installs Bioswales on Bankers Industrial

This piece may seem familiar to our readers as we ran it last fall. However, this is an important message that bears repeating every fall.

The clock is ticking toward fall again, and we must ready ourselves and our homes for cooler weather. With that we must have our heating equipment checked to be sure it is ready for a long and steady use. For those of us with heat sources that require the burning of fossil fuels to keep us warm, we should go that extra mile in making sure our systems are safe.

While all heating systems, electric and gas require monitoring for the possibility of fire, all fossil fuel systems such as natural gas, propane, kerosene, coal, etc. have another element of danger, Carbon Monoxide. The burning of fossil fuel puts off another type of gas (CO) that must be vented to the outdoors, with the exception of properly sized and installed unvented equipment such as but not limited to ranges, gas logs, space heaters and similar equipment not required to be vented by code, because they give off such small levels of CO.

Some symptoms of CO poisoning could include, but are not limited to:

• Dull headache

• Weakness

• Dizziness

• Nausea or vomiting

• Shortness of breath

• Confusion

• Blurred vision

• Loss of consciousness

Symptoms at certain levels (measured in parts per million)

ppm are:

• Short term early symptoms could occur in 8 hours at 50 ppm.

• The same level of early symptoms within 15 minutes at 200 ppm.

Carbon Monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is slightly less dense than air. It is toxic to all animals that use hemoglobin as an oxygen carrier when encountered in concentrations at or above 35 ppm (parts per million) It is truly the silent killer in larger quantities.

Every year more than 500 Americans die from accidental exposure to carbon monoxide and thousands more across the U.S. require emergency medical care for non-fatal carbon monoxide poisoning. These products include, but are not limited to, malfunctioning fuel-burning appliances such as furnaces, ranges, water heaters, gas and kerosene room heaters; engine-powered equipment such as portable generators; fireplaces; and charcoal that is burned in homes and other enclosed areas. Still others die from carbon monoxide produced by non-consumer products, such as cars left running in attached garages. The CDC estimates that several thousand people go to hospital emergency rooms every year to be treated for carbon monoxide poisoning.

• Headache in 1-2 hours, life-threatening in 3 hours at 400 ppm

• Headache, nausea in 45 minutes, death in 2-3 hours at 800 ppm

• Headache, nausea in 20 minutes, death in 1 hour at 1,600 ppm

• Headache, nausea in 5 minutes, death in 30 minutes at 3,200 ppm

• Headache, nausea in 1 minute, death in 10 minutes at 6,400 ppm

Two simple steps to ensure you and your family are

safe:

1. As you can see from the timeline above CO is a killer. The good news is there are systems designed to keep us safe and there are steps we can all take to prevent this from happening to us and our loved ones. The Residential code requires that all new homes have CO detectors installed, this is the first line of defense. If your home uses fossil fuels for heat, this is a must, if your home does not have a CO detector, you should have one installed or install one yourself before the next use of the system.

2. Next, the best advice is to have a licensed trained professional HVAC contractor examine your system every fall before use, not all leaks are obvious, even if you have an outdoor unit, a crack may develop in the heat exchanger and allow CO to enter your home through the heat duct system. These professionals can help keep you and your family safe from the dangers of Carbon Monoxide.

To assist with water quality and to lessen the impacts of potential flooding, earlier this year, the City of Peachtree Corners installed a bioswale on Bankers Industrial Drive. A bioswale is a shallow, landscaped depression in the ground that collects, filters, and treats stormwater runoff. Bioswales are designed to reduce flooding, filter pollutants, and slow runoff.

This project began as an offshoot of the Georgia Environmental Protection Department’s Nancy Creek Watershed Improvement Plan. The City participated due to the headwaters of Nancy Creek being located inside Peachtree Corners city limits around Bankers Industrial Drive.

To help fund the project, the City applied for and were awarded federal Section 319(h) funds for design and construction in the amount of $400,000. The City was required to provide a local match of $392,749.

About the Project

The Bankers Industrial area is a heavily urbanized area with large percentage of impervious area including large buildings, parking lots, and connecting road networks, which are common in industrial complexes. This area typically sheds large volumes of stormwater runoff which has caused localized flooding and water quality impacts downstream in the tributary of Nancy Creek.

This project installed 10 (ten) linear bioretention cells/bioswales totaling up to 13,000 square feet in area within the City right of way along Bankers Industrial Drive. The linear bioretention cells/bioswales were installed as a retrofit into the existing landscaped areas adjacent to parking lots, roadways and/or large rooftops within the existing stormwater drainage system. The bioswales infiltrate and treat stormwater prior to its discharge to the existing system.

As the system previously existed, most stormwater infrastructure discharged directly to the Nancy Creek tributary without any treatment or attenuation since the area was developed prior to current Georgia Stormwater Management Manual (GSMM) design standards. This project demonstrates watershed improvements by retrofitting and installing updated stormwater controls, green infrastruc-

ture, stormwater treatment within a heavy urbanized area while also leveraging dedicated funding sources, including the City’s stormwater utility. In addition to managing nonpoint source pollution, the project provides several other environmental benefits including the reduction in volume and rate of runoff flow into the tributary of Nancy Creek. The excessive volume generated by impervious surfaces in the headwaters of the watershed has damaged the health of the tributary downstream, impacting aquatic habitat and increasing the sediment loads carried into Nancy Creek. This project is expected to infiltrate approximately 4 million gallons of runoff per year and provide an effective solution for addressing water quality impacts by addressing runoff reduction and infiltrating stormwater runoff.